As the holiday season approaches, families across Ontario look for the perfect way to escape and make lasting memories. Ontario offers a range of holiday family getaways that cater to all kinds of adventures, whether you’re looking for outdoor activities, cozy accommodations, or festive experiences. From snowy outdoor fun to warm fireside relaxation, Ontario has everything you need for a magical family getaway this holiday season. Let’s explore some of Ontario’s top holiday family getaways.
1. Bayview Wildwood Resort: A Family Tradition of Holiday Fun
Located in the beautiful Muskoka region, Bayview Wildwood Resort is a classic Ontario family getaway that offers an exceptional holiday experience. Situated on the shores of Sparrow Lake, this all-season resort is ideal for families who want to enjoy the best of winter activities with the comfort of cozy accommodations.
Activities and Amenities:
- Winter Fun: At Bayview Wildwood, your family can enjoy snowshoeing, ice skating on the lake, cross-country skiing, and even snowmobiling. There’s also a variety of indoor activities, such as an indoor heated pool, games room, and arts and crafts programs for kids.
- Holiday Magic: During the holiday season, the resort offers special packages with festive meals, Christmas-themed activities, and visits from Santa. Evening bonfires with hot chocolate and live entertainment make for unforgettable family memories.
- Accommodations: The resort offers a variety of family-friendly accommodations, from cozy rooms to private lakeside cottages, perfect for larger families who need extra space.
Best For:
Families who want a balanced mix of outdoor adventure and indoor relaxation, with plenty of holiday-themed activities to keep everyone entertained.
2. Deerhurst Resort: A Winter Wonderland Escape
Deerhurst Resort, located in Huntsville, Muskoka, is another top family-friendly destination for a holiday getaway. Known for its luxurious yet family-friendly atmosphere, Deerhurst transforms into a winter wonderland during the holidays, offering a perfect blend of activities for all ages.
Activities and Amenities:
- Outdoor Fun: Families can enjoy skiing and snowboarding at the nearby Hidden Valley Highlands Ski Area, or stay onsite to try snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, ice skating, or snowmobiling. Deerhurst also offers sleigh rides and evening campfires.
- Holiday Packages: The resort’s holiday packages include festive meals, winter activities, and even special experiences like Christmas tree decorating or holiday movie nights.
- Indoor Fun: The indoor pool, climbing wall, and arcade are perfect for kids, while parents can relax at the spa or enjoy a drink by the fire at the resort’s restaurants.
Best For:
Families looking for a mix of luxury and adventure, with plenty of organized activities to keep both kids and adults happy during the holidays.
3. Great Wolf Lodge: A Splashing Holiday Adventure
For families seeking a holiday getaway with a twist, Great Wolf Lodge in Niagara Falls offers an unforgettable experience. This indoor waterpark resort provides families with endless fun, even during the cold winter months. While the weather may be chilly outside, it’s always warm and exciting inside.
Activities and Amenities:
- Waterpark Fun: Great Wolf Lodge is known for its massive indoor waterpark, featuring waterslides, a lazy river, a wave pool, and more. It’s a great option for families who want to escape the cold and enjoy some splashing fun.
- Holiday Magic: During the holiday season, the resort transforms with festive decorations, visits from Santa, and a variety of seasonal activities, including “Snowland” celebrations. Storytime with Santa and holiday-themed crafts keep the magic alive.
- Family Suites: Great Wolf Lodge offers spacious, themed family suites with fun designs like “Wolf Den” and “KidCabin,” making the stay even more exciting for children.
Best For:
Families with younger children who want a holiday experience packed with indoor fun and waterpark adventures, with plenty of holiday festivities on the side.
4. Blue Mountain Resort: Adventure and Festivities for the Whole Family
Located near Collingwood, Blue Mountain Resort is a fantastic destination for families looking for a blend of winter sports and holiday cheer. The resort offers everything from skiing and snowboarding to holiday light displays and cozy accommodations, making it a great place for a family holiday getaway.
Activities and Amenities:
- Skiing and Snowboarding: With 43 trails ranging from beginner to expert, Blue Mountain is perfect for families who want to hit the slopes. The resort also offers snowshoeing, tubing, and ice skating.
- Holiday Village: Blue Mountain Village is a festive hub during the holidays, with twinkling lights, holiday markets, and special holiday events. Enjoy horse-drawn carriage rides, live entertainment, and Santa visits.
- Family-Friendly Accommodations: Blue Mountain offers a variety of lodging options, from cozy hotel rooms to full-sized chalets perfect for large families. Many accommodations come with fireplaces, making it easy to relax after a day in the snow.
Best For:
Families who love outdoor winter sports and want a holiday getaway filled with activities and festive cheer in a picturesque village setting.
5. Santa’s Village: A Christmas-Themed Wonderland
For a truly unique holiday getaway, take your family to Santa’s Village in Bracebridge, located in the heart of Muskoka. Although it’s typically a summer attraction, Santa’s Village opens its doors for special winter holiday weekends, allowing families to experience the magic of Christmas in a real-life “North Pole.”
Activities and Amenities:
- Holiday Activities: During the winter weekends, Santa’s Village features everything from cookie decorating with Mrs. Claus to Elf School, where kids can earn their official elf certification. Take a ride on Santa’s train or visit with live reindeer.
- Santa’s Cottage: Families can stay at Santa’s Whispering Pines Campground, where cozy cabins are available for a unique holiday experience. Imagine waking up in a Christmas-themed village!
- Winter Wonderland: Santa’s Village becomes a true winter wonderland, complete with festive decorations, lights, and, of course, plenty of snow.
Best For:
Families with younger children who want an immersive, magical holiday experience with Santa himself.
6. Algonquin Park: A Winter Nature Escape
For families who love nature and outdoor adventure, Algonquin Park offers a peaceful and scenic holiday escape. Although it’s known for its summer camping, Algonquin transforms into a winter wonderland, providing families with a variety of outdoor activities, breathtaking scenery, and cozy accommodations.
Activities and Amenities:
- Winter Activities: Families can enjoy snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and ice fishing in this vast wilderness. Wildlife enthusiasts may also spot moose, deer, and other animals in their natural habitat.
- Cozy Accommodations: Stay in a family-friendly lodge or rent a cabin near the park’s entrance. Several lodges offer packages that include meals and guided winter excursions.
- Tranquility and Peace: For families looking to disconnect from the hustle and bustle, Algonquin Park provides a serene, quiet getaway where you can spend quality time together while surrounded by nature.
Best For:
Families who love outdoor adventures and want to experience the beauty of Ontario’s wilderness in winter.
Planning Your Holiday Family Getaway in Ontario
Ontario offers an array of holiday getaways for families, whether you’re looking for adventure, relaxation, or festive experiences. From the action-packed slopes of Blue Mountain to the cozy lakeside cabins of Bayview Wildwood Resort, there’s a perfect destination for every family. Be sure to book early, as many popular spots fill up quickly during the holiday season. With so much to offer, Ontario is the ultimate destination for creating cherished holiday memories with your loved ones.
Happy Holiday Travels!
