I didn’t have time to put together a list of things to do this Canada Day, but just wanted to hop on and wish everyone a great day! With that being said, here are a few (limited) last-minute ideas to make the best of your day!
Just to add, this list was created in no particular order. Just the order that they popped up in my mind.
1) Downtown Toronto
I heard that there would be fireworks downtown this year, despite that not being the case in previous years. I no longer work by the harbourfront, but I recommend going early, scouting out places to get water and drinks and bringing lots of sunscreen. A popular destination on Canada Day is Centre Island so if you plan to go out to the Islands, go early, bring a picnic and lots of water and sunscreen! A reminder that the Ferry doesn’t run 24/7 so plan your last trip and be prepared to hike out to the other island docks if needed.
2) Niagara Falls
Niagara Falls is another very popular destination with fireworks (usually) and fills up insanely fast. I recommend either taking the GO Train out there or if you end up driving, head there early! I’ve found that trips past 12 pm (noon) usually cause you to be backed up in traffic for hours, regardless of if you end up at Niagara or St. Catherines or even Niagara on the Lake. It’s a very touristy area so food prices are a little high, but I’d recommend hitting the smaller restaurants or even grocery stores away from Clifton Hill if you want to save some money.
Go Trains (especially if you’re taking the $25 Niagara option) also don’t run 24/7 so unless you plan to stay the night, I think the last one out leaves at 7 pm sharp. Plan ahead, and bring your sunscreen!
3) Wasaga Beach
Wasaga beach is a place that my parents and I would occasionally visit with friends growing up, it’s a bit of a far trek up there but it’s a great way to enjoy a quieter time and some beach relaxation. There’s this cute candy shop on the main road that I was obsessed with visiting, if it’s still there, I recommend visiting it! The beach is very long so it also makes a great place to play some volleyball or frisbee.
I haven’t been up there in years so I can’t tell you about anything else beyond that, but give it a try!
4) Ottawa
Ottawa, our capital is a very popular destination to go visit during Canada Day or Victoria Day. Mainly because there are a bunch of festivities that occur. Again, like Wasaga Beach, I haven’t been there in years so I don’t have a clue about anything else aside from it being super popular.
5) Canada’s Wonderland
Canada’s Wonderland is a very popular place to visit if the downtown Toronto scene isn’t for you, a little expensive yes but worth it if you want some thrilling rollercoasters or waterpark rides. I know that every year they will also light up fireworks so you can also see them up there as well, and can also see fireworks outside of the park as well. Just be prepared for the sun, the potential heat and the traffic.
