Day Trips from Toronto: Spring Fun for Families

Spring in Toronto (and Ontario in general) can be unpredictable, so be sure to make the most of the season by exploring the best family-friendly day trips from Toronto. These outings to Barrie, Thornbury and more offer perfect ways to enjoy a day outside of the big city. Blooming natural trails and spring-themed art await!

Get Creative in Barrie

• MacLaren Art Centre

The MacLaren Art Centre always has plenty of activities to get all ages engaged with the arts. Bring out your family’s creative side with children’s classes or look ahead to summer with creative summer camps for a variety of ages. There’s always something happening at the MacLaren Art Centre – you won’t be disappointed!

37 Mulcaster Street, Barrie

• Blue Mountain | Collingwood

Blue Mountain has something for every season, but we find their spring events particularly special. Check out the Adventure Park or take in the Georgian Bay on a beautiful hike. And, of course, set a reminder to come back for the winter for skiing, snowshoeing, and loads of other cold weather events.

190 Gord Canning Drive, Blue Mountains

Step Back in Time in Midland & Area

Experience Ontario’s History at Sainte Marie among the Hurons

Another sure sign of spring is the opening of one of the most popular Ontario historic resorts, Sainte Marie among the Hurons. This Canadian National Historic Site is Ontario’s oldest European community detailing the French Jesuit mission in the Huron-Wendat Nation. You can choose how you’d like to explore the story of the historic site, by taking part in a self-guided or guided tour, and plenty of activities for everyone. This is essential for any little Ontarian to see!

16164, Highway 12 East, Midland – Open daily from 10am to 5pm

• Tour the Whye Marsh

The Whye Marsh is a fantastic spot to get the kids out of the city and into the natural world. With fantastic spring programming, you can take a tour of the marsh on foot––or canoe!––or take part in a Moth Embroidery Beginner Workshop to ring in the changing of the seasons. There’s so much to explore at the marsh, and we’re sure the whole family will enjoy the experience.

16160 Highway 12 East, Midland

Experience Music and Community in Orillia 

• Enjoy Music in the Park

As spring turns to summer, you’ll want to check out a tradition almost 50 years in the making: Orillia’s Music in the Park. Enjoy live music and a real sense of community as the spring flowers are in full bloom. 

Rotary Aqua Theatre – June 23 to August 25, select Sundays

Hit the Beach in Thornbury

• Relax by the Georgian Bay in Thornbury 

From farmers markets to castle crafts, you won’t have any shortage of things to do in Thornbury. Bring the whole family for the day––and as the spring warms up, don’t forget your swimsuits to enjoy the stunning Georgian Bay.

Spring is the perfect time to take a couple day trips from Toronto and explore loads of family-friendly activities. From arts and culture in Barrie to historical fun in Midland, community festivities in Orillia, and relaxing by the Georgian Bay, there are plenty of things to do near Toronto. Embrace the season with blooming natural trails, vibrant art scenes, and engaging community events. And, if you decide to hang around in the city for a weekend or two – we have you covered: check out our pro tips for navigating Toronto and some of our favourite places to spend an entire day in the city.