Great Museums in Ontario for Your Family to Visit
There’s a diverse range of museums in Ontario that offer enriching and fun experiences for your family. On a local outing or a great Canadian cross country trip, you’ll want to add some of these to your family’s bucket list. Whether you’re interested in history, science, art, or culture, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Tips for Your Family’s Trip to the Museum
- Pick the Right Time – Go early to avoid crowds and maximize energy levels.
- Look for Family Packages: Many museums offer bundled deals for admission.
- Engage with Hands-On Exhibits – Look for kid-friendly, interactive sections.
- Turn It Into a Game – Create a scavenger hunt for things to find in each exhibit.
- Pack Smart – Bring snacks, a small notebook for doodling, and comfy shoes. Just remember to pay attention to museum rules about food.
- Plan for attention span – 1-2 hours for littles, maybe 3 or 4 hours for bigger kids or teens and end with a fun treat nearby!
Here are some great museums in Ontario that families should consider visiting:
Canadian Museum of History (Gatineau, near Ottawa)
Located just across the river from Ottawa, the Canadian Museum of History provides a fascinating look at Canada’s history. The Canadian Children’s Museum, located inside, is a highlight for families, offering hands-on activities and global-themed exhibits. There’s free admission on Thursday evenings from 5 to 7, but it does get busy. If you want quieter experience, then you should consider going earlier in the day.
100 Laurier St, Gatineau, Quebec K1A 0M8
Royal Ontario Museum (Toronto)
The Royal Ontario Museum (ROM) is one of the largest museums in Canada, featuring exhibits on natural history, world cultures, and art. Not only can families explore dinosaur fossils, ancient artifacts, but also hands-on galleries like the Discovery Gallery, designed specifically for kids.
100 Queen’s Park, Toronto, ON M5S 2C6
Toronto Railway Museum (Toronto)
For train enthusiasts, the Toronto Railway Museum is a fantastic destination. Located in Roundhouse Park, it showcases historic locomotives and railcars, and kids can even enjoy a miniature train ride.
255 Bremner Blvd, Toronto, ON M5V 3M9
The Canadian Museum of Nature (Ottawa)
The Canadian Museum of Nature in Ottawa, Ontario offers a variety of activities for families to enjoy. Explore stunning exhibits featuring dinosaurs, Arctic wildlife, and the wonders of the Earth. Engage in interactive displays, hands-on discovery zones, and live animal showcases. Families can also participate in special workshops, guided tours, and seasonal events. The museum’s outdoor spaces and nature-inspired architecture provide additional opportunities for exploration and relaxation. It’s an educational and fun experience for all ages.
240 McLeod St, Ottawa, ON K2P 2R1
The AGO (Art Gallery of Ontario) (Toronto)
The AGO is a family-friendly art museum with plenty of activities for kids, and even ones you can so along side them. The Hands-On Centre offers creative workshops, and the gallery itself is filled with inspiring art pieces that appeal to visitors of all ages.
317 Dundas St W, Toronto, ON M5T 1G4
Science North (Sudbury)
Science North is a must-visit for families who love science and nature. This interactive science museum features exhibits on geology, animals, and space. For example, kids will love the IMAX theatre, the planetarium, and the chance to meet live animals.
100 Ramsey Lake Rd, Greater Sudbury, ON P3E 5S9
Museum London (London)
Museum London combines art and history, making it a wonderful stop for families in southwestern Ontario. The museum offers kid-friendly programming and engaging exhibits that bring the region’s culture to life.
421 Ridout St N, London, ON N6A 5H4
Dinosaur Valley Mini Golf & Prehistoric Gardens (Sudbury)
While not a traditional museum, this unique attraction combines education and fun. Families can explore life-sized dinosaur sculptures and learn about prehistoric creatures while enjoying a round of mini-golf.
3316 St Laurent St, Greater Sudbury, ON P0M 1L0
dinosaur1.homesteadcloud.com/dinosaur-valley-mini-golf
Canadian Aviation and Space Museum (Ottawa)
For families with an interest in flight and space exploration, the Canadian Aviation and Space Museum is an unforgettable experience. Kids can explore historic aircraft, learn about Canada’s role in space, and even try out flight simulators.
11 Aviation Pkwy, Ottawa, ON K1K 2X5
Canadian Aviation Museum (Windsor)
The Canadian Aviation Museum in Windsor offers families an engaging experience with aviation history. Visitors can explore a variety of historic aircraft, interactive exhibits, and hands-on activities for kids. Families can enjoy guided tours, flight simulators, and educational programs that showcase Canada’s rich aviation heritage. There are also opportunities for children to participate in workshops and learn about the science of flight, making it a fun and educational outing for all ages.
2600 Airport Rd, Windsor, ON N8V 1A1
Butterfly Conservatory (Niagara Falls)
Though technically a conservatory, this destination is a magical experience for families. Walk through tropical gardens filled with thousands of free-flying butterflies, and learn about their life cycles and habitats.
2565 Niagara River Pkwy, Niagara Falls, ON L0S 1J0
niagaraparks.com/visit/attractions/butterfly-conservatory
THEMUSEUM (Kitchner)
At THEMUSEUM in Kitchener, you can explore family-friendly interactive science exhibits, hands-on art installations, and engaging cultural displays. The museum also hosts workshops, special events, and drop-in activities designed for children and parents to enjoy together. A dedicated play area provides younger visitors with creative and educational fun, making it an ideal destination for all ages.
10 King Street West, Kitchener, ON, N2G 1A3
Pickering Museum Village
At Pickering Museum Village, families can step back in time to explore a recreated 19th-century village. Engage in interactive exhibits, participate in hands-on workshops, and enjoy guided tours that bring history to life. Kids can try old-fashioned crafts, visit heritage buildings, and learn about local history through fun, educational activities. Special events and themed programming throughout the year offer unique experiences for visitors of all ages.
2365 6th Concession Rd, Greenwood, ON L0H 1H0
pickering.ca/parks-recreation-culture/museum
Joseph Brant Museum (Burlington)
The Joseph Brant Museum in Burlington, offers families an engaging mix of history and hands-on activities. Explore exhibits highlighting the life of Joseph Brant, Indigenous culture, and local history. Kids can enjoy interactive displays and creative workshops, while parents discover artifacts and historical stories. The museum also hosts special events, making it a fun and educational destination for all ages.
1240 North Shore Blvd E, Burlington, ON L7S 1C5
museumsofburlington.ca/visitor-information/joseph-brant-museum/
Maple Syrup Museum of Ontario (Hillsburgh)
Discover the sweet history of maple syrup production at the Maple Syrup Museum of Ontario. Families can explore interactive exhibits, learn about traditional and modern syrup-making techniques, and enjoy hands-on activities like tree tapping demonstrations. Stroll through the scenic sugar bush trails, sample fresh maple treats, and participate in seasonal events. It’s a fun and educational experience for all ages! Find more sugar bush experiences in Ontario.
9467 Erin East Garafraxa Townline, Hillsburg On L9W 7G8
elliotttreefarm.ca/maple-syrup-museum-of-ontario/
Halton County Radial Railway (Halton)
The Halton County Radial Railway offers a unique, family-friendly experience where visitors can explore Canada’s largest collection of historic streetcars, interurban cars, and buses. Families can enjoy scenic rides on vintage streetcars along a 2 kilometre track through beautiful woodlands. The museum also features interactive exhibits, a historic streetcar barn, and picnic areas, making it a fun and educational day out for all ages.
13629 Guelph Line, Campbellville, ON N0B 2K0
Hamilton Museum of Steam Technology (Hamilton)
The Hamilton Museum of Steam & Technology in Ontario offers families a fascinating glimpse into the history of steam power and industrial innovation. Housed in a 19th-century waterworks building, the museum features two massive steam engines, interactive exhibits, and hands-on activities that engage visitors of all ages. Families can explore the evolution of engineering, participate in guided tours, and enjoy seasonal events, making it a fun and educational destination for everyone.
900 Woodward Ave, Hamilton, ON L8H 7N2
hamiltoncivicmuseums.ca/hamilton-museum-of-steam-technology-national-historic-site
Spadina Museum (Toronto)
Families visiting Spadina Museum in Toronto can step back in time to explore the beautifully restored 1920s and 1930s mansion. They can take free guided tours to learn about the history of the Austin family, admire the period furnishings and decor, and stroll through the stunning gardens. The museum also offers interactive programs, workshops, and seasonal events, making it a great destination for families to connect with Toronto’s rich heritage.
285 Spadina Rd, Toronto, ON M5R 2V5
toronto.ca/explore-enjoy/history-art-culture/museums/spadina-museum/
Niagra Power Station
Families visiting the Niagara Power Station can enjoy an interactive and educational experience. They can explore the state-of-the-art exhibits to learn about hydroelectric power and its role in providing sustainable energy. The station offers immersive activities, including hands-on displays, multimedia presentations, and guided tours that showcase the history and technology behind harnessing the power of Niagara Falls. Kids and adults alike can engage with the fun, science-based attractions and enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
50 Niagara Parkway, Niagara Falls, ON L2E 3G4
niagaraparks.com/visit/attractions/niagara-parks-power-station
Ripley’s Believe It or Not Odditorium (Niagara Falls)
Ripley’s Believe It or Not Odditorium in Niagara Falls offers families an exciting and interactive experience filled with unique exhibits and bizarre artifacts from around the world. Visitors can explore strange curiosities, optical illusions, and hands-on activities that engage both kids and adults. From shrunken heads to interactive games, it’s a place where the unbelievable becomes reality, making it a fun and educational outing for all ages.
4960 Clifton Hill, Niagara Falls, ON L2G 3N4
ripleys.com/attractions/ripleys-believe-it-or-not-niagara-falls
Ken Seiling Waterloo Region Museum
The Ken Seiling Waterloo Regional Museum offers families an engaging experience with its diverse exhibits, interactive displays, and historical insights. Explore the region’s rich cultural heritage, discover hands-on activities for kids, and wander through the picturesque Doon Heritage Village, a living history museum that brings the past to life. From educational programs to seasonal events, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
10 Huron Rd, Kitchener, ON N2P 2R7
regionofwaterloomuseums.ca/en/visit/ken-seiling-waterloo-region-museum
London Children’s Museum (London)
The London Children’s Museum in Ontario offers an engaging and interactive space where families can explore hands-on exhibits designed to spark curiosity and creativity. With themes ranging from science and art to history and nature, children can enjoy activities like digging for dinosaur fossils, experimenting with waterworks, and stepping into a mini cityscape. The museum provides a fun and educational environment that encourages learning through play, making it a perfect destination for kids of all ages.
100 Kellogg Ln, London, ON N5W 0B4
Casa Loma (Toronto)
Casa Loma in Toronto offers an exciting experience for families, blending history, adventure, and fun. Explore the majestic castle with its secret passageways, grand rooms, and stunning architecture. Kids will love the towers and tunnels, while parents can enjoy the beautiful gardens and historical exhibits. Seasonal events, like the Halloween and holiday festivities, provide additional interactive activities for all ages. It’s a perfect destination for families to learn, explore, and create lasting memories together.
1 Austin Terrace, Toronto, ON M5R 1X8
Bonus: Ontario Science Centre (Toronto)
Perfect for curious minds, the Ontario Science Centre offers interactive pop-up exhibits and live demonstrations around Toronto that make learning fun. From space exploration to nature and technology, this museum encourages kids to engage with science in exciting ways.
Check website for dates and locations.
Ontario’s museums offer more than just educational experiences—they create unforgettable moments for families. When planning your next trip with the kids, embark on an adventure and explore the wonders Canada has in store!
