“Backyard” family fun

Locations: Rouge National Urban Park, HMCS Haida and Fort George National Historic Sites
Roundtrip: 305 km roundtrip from Toronto

Treat yourself to a 3-day getaway in and around the Greater Toronto Area, right in your own “backyard!” Enjoy nature just a stone's throw from the city, climb aboard the most famous Canadian warship, and even get dressed in a military hat and uniform to shoot a musket.

 

Day 1

Location: Rouge Urban National Park, Toronto

Looking to escape the stress of everyday life? Come recharge at Rouge National Urban Park! Explore the forest, discover one of the largest marshes in the region, walk along unspoiled beaches and let the sand soothe your feet.

Immerse yourself in a cultural experience and discover a piece of human history stretching back more than 10,000 years, including Indigenous sites that are among the oldest in Canada.

 

Day 2

Location: HMCS Haida National Historic Site, Hamilton
Distance: 100 km from Toronto

After a good breakfast and a heaping bowl of fresh air, make your way to the Port of Hamilton. Climb aboard the most famous Canadian war vessel and imagine what life must have been like for the crew serving on the Navy’s most decorated ship. Can you spot any imminent threats on the horizon?

Enjoy the Hamilton farmers’ market where you can pull together a delicious picnic before heading out to Niagara-on-the-Lake.

 

Day 3

Location: Fort George National Historic Site, Niagara-on-the-Lake
Distance: 75 km from Hamilton

Watch a musket firing demonstration. Better yet, put on a red coat, slip on a military hat, load and fire. Wander through the eight restored buildings of the Fort George National Historic Site and revisit the lives of British soldiers and their families. Enjoy beautiful views of the mighty Niagara River.

Take the rest of the day to leisurely stroll around town on foot or by bike. Make sure to fill your shopping bags with local products before heading back home.

Return to Toronto, 130 km