13-Day Ultimate Family Travel Guides Route in Canada
Canada is an expansive playground for families, offering a blend of cosmopolitan sophistication and breathtaking natural beauty. This 13-day journey focuses on the 'Classic Route' through Ontario and Quebec, designed specifically for those traveling with children who require a more relaxed pace and stroller-accessible environments.
By utilizing the comfortable VIA Rail network, you can skip the stress of long drives and enjoy the scenic landscapes together. From the splash zones of Niagara Falls to the fairytale streets of Old Quebec, this itinerary ensures that both parents and kids have a memorable, hassle-free Canadian adventure.
Day 1: Toronto, Canada - Arrival & Skyline Views
Arrival at Pearson International
Touch down in Toronto and take the UP Express train to Union Station. It is fast, affordable, and fully accessible for strollers and luggage.
CN Tower Ascent
Visit Canada's most iconic landmark. The glass elevators are a hit with kids, and the observation deck offers breathtaking views of Lake Ontario.
Ripley's Aquarium of Canada
Located right at the base of the CN Tower, this aquarium features a moving sidewalk through a shark tunnel, making it perfectly stroller-friendly.
Dinner at Harbourfront Centre
Enjoy a casual meal by the water where kids can run around the open boardwalk while you watch the ferries come and go.
Day 2: Toronto, Canada - Island Adventures
Toronto Island Ferry
Take the ferry from Jack Layton Ferry Terminal. The short boat ride is an excitement in itself for toddlers and provides the best skyline photos.
Centreville Amusement Park
Specifically designed for younger children, this park on the island features gentle rides, a petting zoo, and plenty of shaded picnic spots.
Island Exploration
Rent a quadricycle with a child seat and explore the car-free paths of Ward's Island and Centre Island at your own pace.
St. Lawrence Market
Return to the city for an early dinner at one of the world's best food markets. Try a famous Peameal Bacon Sandwich.
Day 3: Niagara Falls, Canada - The Great Falls
Day Trip to Niagara Falls
Board a comfortable shuttle or take the GO Train to Niagara. It is a roughly 1.5 to 2-hour journey from downtown Toronto.
Niagara City Cruises
Don the iconic red ponchos and take the boat tour to the base of the falls. It is accessible for strollers, though they may get a little misty!
Journey Behind the Falls
Descend into the tunnels to see the massive curtain of water from a different perspective. Elevators make this easy for families.
Clifton Hill
Walk through the 'Street of Fun'. While touristy, the Niagara SkyWheel offers a climate-controlled ride with spectacular views for all ages.
Day 4: Ottawa, Canada - Moving to the Capital
VIA Rail to Ottawa
Travel in comfort on the train. The 4.5-hour journey includes spacious seating and clean bathrooms, far superior to a bus for kids.
Major's Hill Park
Check into your hotel and head to this park. It offers a great view of the Parliament Buildings and plenty of space for kids to stretch their legs.
ByWard Market
Explore this historic market. Don't forget to grab a 'BeaverTail'—a classic Canadian fried dough pastry that kids absolutely love.
Ottawa River Walk
Take a gentle stroll along the Rideau Canal, a UNESCO World Heritage site that is beautifully paved and easy for strollers.
Day 5: Ottawa, Canada - Museums and History
Canadian Museum of History
Located just across the river in Gatineau, this museum houses the incredible Canadian Children's Museum, an indoor world-travel playground.
Parliament Hill
Watch the Changing of the Guard (seasonal) or simply admire the Gothic architecture. The lawns are perfect for a family photo.
Canadian Nature Museum
Perfect for dinosaur lovers! The fossil gallery is world-class and the museum is fully accessible with ramps and elevators.
Dinner in Elgin Street
This area features many family-friendly bistros and cafes within walking distance of the main downtown hotels.
Day 6: Montreal, Canada - The French Connection
Train to Montreal
A short 2-hour train ride brings you into the heart of Montreal. The transition from English to French culture is an exciting learning moment for kids.
Mount Royal Park (Parc du Mont-Royal)
Take a bus or taxi to the top. The 'Tam-Tams' drum circle on Sundays is a local favorite, and the Beaver Lake playground is excellent.
Plateau Neighbourhood Walk
Walk through the colorful streets with their famous outdoor spiral staircases and grab a Montreal-style bagel at St-Viateur.
Poutine Tasting
Visit La Banquise for a massive variety of poutines. They have high chairs and a very casual, welcoming atmosphere for families.
Day 7: Montreal, Canada - Old World Charm
Old Montreal (Vieux-Montréal)
Wander the cobblestone streets. While some alleys are bumpy, the main Place d'Armes and the waterfront are very stroller-friendly.
Notre-Dame Basilica
Marvel at the stunning blue interior. For older kids, the 'AURA' light show in the evening is a spectacular visual experience.
La Grande Roue de Montréal
Canada’s tallest observation wheel offers enclosed, climate-controlled gondolas with incredible views of the St. Lawrence River.
Montreal Science Centre
Located in the Old Port, this center features hands-on exhibits and an IMAX theater perfect for an educational afternoon break.
Day 8: Montreal, Canada - Nature and Science
Montreal Biodome
Part of the Space for Life complex, the Biodome allows you to walk through four ecosystems, from the Tropical Rainforest to the Sub-Polar regions.
Rio Tinto Alcan Planetarium
Right next to the Biodome, this planetarium offers immersive shows that are visually stunning for even young children.
Montreal Botanical Garden
One of the world's greatest botanical gardens. The Chinese and Japanese gardens are peaceful spots for a slow family walk.
Olympic Park
Ride the funicular up the Montreal Tower, the tallest inclined tower in the world, for a unique perspective on the 1976 Olympic site.
Day 9: Quebec City, Canada - Fairytale Fortifications
VIA Rail to Quebec City
The 3-hour journey to Quebec City is relaxing. Aim for a morning train to maximize your afternoon in this historic UNESCO site.
Quartier Petit Champlain
Explore what many call the most beautiful street in Canada. It feels like a European village, with plenty of toy shops and sweets.
Old Quebec Funicular
Avoid the 'Breakneck Steps' with the stroller and take the funicular between the Lower Town and the Upper Town near the Château Frontenac.
Dufferin Terrace
Walk the wide wooden boardwalk in front of the Château Frontenac. In winter, this is home to the famous giant ice slide!
Day 10: Quebec City, Canada - Waterfalls and Sea Life
Montmorency Falls Park
These falls are 30 meters higher than Niagara. Take the cable car to the top for easy stroller access to the suspension bridge.
Île d'Orléans
Take a short drive to this island for apple picking or visiting local chocolate shops. It is a slow-paced, rural escape.
Aquarium du Québec
Meet walruses and seals! The outdoor play area and splash pad are perfect for letting the kids burn off energy.
Dinner at Grande Allée
This wide street is lined with restaurants with large terraces, making it easy to dine with children and watch the world go by.
Day 11: Quebec City, Canada - Plains and Citadels
The Plains of Abraham
This massive urban park is perfect for a morning run or a picnic. There are several paved paths ideal for strollers.
La Citadelle de Québec
Learn about military history in a way that’s engaging for kids. The Changing of the Guard with a goat mascot is a big hit.
Musée de la Civilisation
This museum is exceptionally family-friendly, featuring 'MLAB'—a digital lab where kids can create and play.
Sugar Shack Experience
Even if it’s not spring, many spots in the city offer 'maple taffy on snow' or traditional Quebecois meals year-round.
Day 12: Montreal, Canada - Farewell Loop
Return to Montreal
Take the train back to Montreal to be closer to the major international airport for your departure.
Jean-Talon Market
One of the largest open-air markets in North America. It’s a great place to pick up authentic maple syrup souvenirs.
Parc Jarry
A true local gem. Let the kids play at the fountains or watch a local cricket match while you enjoy the relaxed Montreal vibe.
Final Canadian Feast
Celebrate your trip with a traditional meal of tourtière (meat pie) at a cozy bistro in the Latin Quarter.
Day 13: Montreal, Canada - Departure
Breakfast and Last Souvenirs
Enjoy a final croissant and coffee. Visit the underground city shops for any last-minute Canadian clothing or gifts.
Transfer to Trudeau International (YUL)
The 747 Express bus or a taxi will get you to the airport in roughly 30-45 minutes from downtown.
Airport Relaxation
Montreal airport has excellent play areas for children near the international gates to keep them occupied before the flight.
Depart Canada
Board your flight home with a camera full of memories and a family that has mastered the art of Canadian travel.
Best Time to Visit Canada
For this specific Ontario and Quebec route, the best time to visit is from June to September. During these months, the weather is warm and all outdoor attractions, including the Toronto Island rides and Niagara cruises, are fully operational. If you prefer the magic of winter, December brings beautiful Christmas markets and ice skating, but be prepared for very cold temperatures that may be challenging for small children.
Currency & Money
Canada uses the Canadian Dollar (CAD). Credit and debit cards are accepted almost everywhere, including for very small purchases like a single coffee. Contactless payment (tap) is the norm. Tipping is expected in restaurants and for services; 15% to 20% of the pre-tax total is standard. It is helpful to carry a few small bills for market stalls or small tipping needs, but you can easily survive a 13-day trip without much cash.
Getting Around Canada
The most family-friendly way to travel between Toronto, Ottawa, Montreal, and Quebec City is via the VIA Rail 'Corridor' service. The trains are spacious, offer WiFi, and have clean, accessible facilities. Within cities, Toronto and Montreal have extensive subway (metro) systems, though in Toronto, older stations may lack elevators—always check the station map for the accessibility icon. Taxis and rideshare services like Uber are widely available and often the easiest choice when moving luggage and strollers between the train station and your hotel.
