As the mercury rises and the school year comes to a close, it's time to start thinking about fun summer activities for kids in the Waterloo Region. Home to a plethora of attractions, outdoor spaces, and educational venues, KW offers plenty of exciting opportunities to keep children engaged all summer long. Here are our top ten picks for a memorable summer with kids in the Kitchener-Waterloo area:
1. Visit the Cambridge Butterfly Conservatory
Just a short drive from Kitchener-Waterloo in nearby Cambridge, the Cambridge Butterfly Conservatory offers an enchanting environment brimming with thousands of butterflies in free flight. Kids will love the interactive exhibits, like the Insect Discovery Lab, where they can get hands-on with bugs and insects. Take a leisurely stroll through the tropical garden, and don't forget to stop by the Chrysalis Corner to witness butterflies emerging right before your eyes.
2. Splash in the Area’s Pools and Splash Pads
The region is dotted with multiple public pools and splash pads that become summer hotspots for families. Check out Moses Springer Pool in Waterloo with its large outdoor pool, diving boards, and adjacent splash pad. In Kitchener, the Idlewood Pool offers a great outdoor swimming spot, complete with a shallow end for smaller kids. Splash pads like those at Victoria Park, McLennan Park or Breithaupt Park are also sure to provide hours of water fun for the little ones.
3. Enjoy Picnics at Victoria Park
Kitchener's oldest and largest park, Victoria Park, features ample space for picnics under sprawling trees, alongside a serene lake. Kids can engage with numerous play structures in the playground, cool off at the splash pad, and enjoy a ride on the antique carousel. The park also hosts various community events throughout the summer that are perfect for families.
4. Experience History at Doon Heritage Village
The Doon Heritage Village offers an interactive history lesson that kids and adults will find fascinating. Children can explore the general store, blacksmith shop, schoolhouse, and more as they interact with guides dressed in period attire. It's a fantastic way to learn about rural life in our area over a century ago and appreciate local history.
5. Take Part in Art at the Clay and Glass Gallery
The Canadian Clay and Glass Gallery offers more than just exhibits. Their kid-friendly workshops and summer art camps foster creativity and teach the basics of clay and glass artwork. Plus, exploring the gallery's beautiful and diverse collection can inspire new artistic interests in young visitors and adults alike.
6. Go Strawberry Picking at Herrle's Country Farm Market
A trip to Herrle's Country Farm Market is a delightful summer tradition for many local families. The 'pick-your-own' strawberry field offers a fun and immersive way to help kids understand where our food comes from. Afterwards, visit their on-site market, which sells a variety of homemade goods and the most delicious ice cream that partners perfectly with those juicy fresh picked fruits!
7. Explore the Waterloo Region Museum
The Waterloo Region Museum provides interactive and engaging exhibits that delve into the region's cultural and natural history. Kids will especially love the immersive 'Living History' exhibits, where they can experience life from different historical eras. It's not just a museum, it's an adventure into the past!
8. Hike the Walter Bean Grand River Trail
For nature-loving families, the Walter Bean Grand River Trail offers a great escape. The trail is relatively flat, making it accessible for younger kids and strollers. Along the way, you might spot birds, deer, and other wildlife. It's a great way to get the kids active while appreciating the beauty of local landscapes.
9. Discover the Universe at the Gustav Bakos Observatory
The University of Waterloo's Gustav Bakos Observatory provides an awe-inspiring, cosmic adventure. With public viewing nights and special events, kids can learn about planets, stars, and galaxies while using the observatory's powerful telescope. This unique experience could be the start of a lifelong love of astronomy.
10. Get Wild at the African Lion Safari
Venture beyond Kitchener-Waterloo without ever actually leaving the area with a day trip to the African Lion Safari. This drive-through wildlife park offers close encounters with animals from around the world. From the thrilling elephant rides to the impressive Birds of Prey flying demonstrations, it's a wildlife experience like no other.
Having small children ourselves, we, Angelica and Aron of Team Pinto, understand the importance of family-friendly activities in the community we serve. As expert real estate brokers in the Kitchener-Waterloo area, we pride ourselves on being knowledgeable about our community and the many amenities it offers to families.
Beyond helping families find their dream homes, we are passionate about supporting them in creating a fulfilling and active lifestyle in the region. Whether you are looking to buy, sell or just need advice on how to make the most of life in the Waterloo Region, Team Pinto is here to help. We hope you find this list helpful and that your summer is filled with fun and memorable experiences.