couple sitting on a dock at sunset

Top 5 Family Activities in Muskoka, Ontario | Spring, Summer, Fall

family activities in Muskoka - kid jumping into a lake with his mother waiting to catch him
Source:  Discover Muskoka

Muskoka, Ontario is the most well-known (one might even say, famous) area of Ontario’s Cottage Country.  Its rugged beauty attracts visitors from all over, and some famous Hollywood celebrities have vacation homes here.  It’s a gem for Ontario residents too.  Many visitors flock there each summer to take advantage of the myriad of activities, both water- and land- based.  Besides enjoying the lake at your own waterfront cottage rental, you might want to venture further afield to explore the area.  Families of all ages will find Muskoka packed with activities that promise fun, excitement, and togetherness. If you can tear yourself away from your own cottage rental’s waterfront, here are the top five family activities in Muskoka that you simply cannot miss.

 1. Family Activities in Muskoka | Santa’s Village | Bracebridge

Nestled along the Muskoka River in the town of Bracebridge, Santa’s Village is a magical amusement park that delights visitors young and old. This Christmas-themed attraction offers a whimsical escape into a world of elves, reindeer, and festive cheer, even in the summer!

family activities in Muskoka - Santa's Village, pictures with Santa
Source:  My Muskoka Now

Kids can enjoy rides like the Candy Cane Express Roller Coaster, Blitzen’s Balloons, the antique Merry-Go-Round or take a ride on Santa’s Summer Sleigh (spoiler alert – it’s a boat).  They can take the Elf Sky Challenge or play in the playground on Elves Island, or ride the go-carts.  Interactive experiences, such as the petting zoo and the Muskoka Mining Sluice add a personal touch to the visit. The activities are endless!  Walk through Santa’s Enchanted Forest, or play in the Spray & Play Beach Zone.  Of course a visit with Santa himself is a must.  It’s enough to make you wish you were a kid again!  With a mix of activities for all ages, Santa’s Village is a must-visit destination.

2. Family Activities in Muskoka | Muskoka Steamships | Gravenhurst

family activities in Muskoka - pirate themed cruise
Source:  Muskoka Today

Take a family-friendly cruise on one of Muskoka’s historic steamships.  Enjoy the stunning scenic views of Lake Muskoka on a dinner cruise, or view the celebrity cottages by taking a tour of Millionaire’s Row.  For even more fun, take one of their specialty cruises such as the yearly Pirate’s Cruise.  While you’re at the wharf, be sure to visit the Muskoka Discovery Centre too!

3. Family Activities in Muskoka | Muskoka Heritage Place | Huntsville

family activities in Muskoka - steam train pulling into the platform
Source:  Muskoka

For a taste of Muskoka’s history, Muskoka Heritage Place in Huntsville is the place to go!  The interactive museum features a pioneer village, a working steam train, and a variety of exhibits.  In the pioneer village, families can see what life was like in the 19th century, with costumed guides to demonstrate and answer questions. 

Kids will love learning about history while exploring the buildings.  The blacksmith shop and the one-room schoolhouse will be sure to fascinate them, and they can meet some farm animals too. Take a ride on the Portage Flyer Train, which follows the Muskoka River on its path. It’s a way to make history come alive in an entertaining way that the whole family can enjoy.

4. Family Activities in Muskoka | Bethune Memorial House | Gravenhurst

family activities in Muskoka - Bethune House playground
Source:  Muskoka 411

Bethune Memorial House in Gravenhurst is another historical option, with a fun twist for kids!  The memorial house describes the life of Dr. Norman Bethune, a Canadian physician and innovator.  Children will love the First World War themed family activity area.  This amazing area features an historically correct trench and a “training area” for interactive fun.  Details like rubber rats and pretend barbed wire make it especially realistic.  If they wish to take it to a new level (making for great photo memories), they can put on military garb and keep an eye out for the enemy through periscopes, while gunshots can be sporadically heard. 

5. Family Activities in Muskoka | Treetop Trekking | Huntsville

family activities in Muskoka - Treetop Trekking - kid walking across a rope bridge
Source:  Discover Muskoka

For families anxious to burn off some of that endless kid-energy, perhaps a more vigorous activity is in order.  Why not head to Treetop Trekking in Huntsville?  You’ll find a variety of activities are available there for kids of all ages.  After all, who doesn’t love zip lines, suspension bridges and obstacle courses?  Children under 7 can check out the Treewalk Village, basically a younger version of the more challenging course, with easier to navigate walkways between the treehouses.  Additionally, Discovery courses for children between 5 and 8 are available. 

Conclusion

Muskoka, Ontario, is full of family activities catering to a wide range of interests. Whether you’re interested in exploring the everlasting Christmas world of Santa’s Village, going for a cruise on some of Muskoka’s beautiful lakes and rivers, or exploring the history of a pioneer village, your family will be making lasting memories together. Book your Muskoka waterfront rental cottage with CottageLINK Rental Management and start planning your trip today!

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