12 Must-Visit Spots for Indoor Family Fun

Aviation history comes alive at this incredible flight-themed museum where you can celebrate vintage aircraft that once dotted the sky. More than 40 aircraft are exhibited at the Canadian Warplane Heritage Museum in Mount Hope, including the Avro CF-100. If capturing photos of your favourite planes isn’t enough, climb right into the cockpit of a fighter jet or hone your virtual piloting skills in a flight simulator. For the ultimate adventure, take to the skies in a real vintage aircraft – an experienced aviator will take you up in a Fairey Firefly, Westland Lysander, or Avro Lancaster.

Ever dreamed of skydiving? Get your adrenaline rush in a safe, controlled environment at iFly. Step into an indoor wind tunnel where wind speeds of 175 kph and a 45-foot tall cylinder tunnel create an authentic free-fall experience. With wheelchair access and highly trained instructors welcoming flyers of all abilities, this is an adventure everyone can enjoy. Once you tackle iFly, you’ll be on your way to becoming a seasoned skydiver and extreme sport enthusiast.

Looking for an amazing animal encounter? Visit Triple C Farm, a unique indoor sanctuary where you can get up close with friendly rescued animals in a peaceful setting. Meet gentle goats, sheep, alpacas, pigs and more – all in small groups that make every visit special. The farm’s indoor space hosts some seriously fun events throughout the year, from Goat Yoga and Movie Nights to Cow Cuddles with adorable Mini Cows. What makes Triple C extra special is how they create a calm, welcoming space where both animals and visitors can relax and connect. Just be sure to book ahead – all visits and events require advance registration to keep the experience intimate and enjoyable for everyone.

The Youth Try The Track program at the Mattamy National Cycling Centre offers an exhilarating introduction to track cycling for kids aged 10-18. Young riders get the chance to experience Canada’s only velodrome in this beginner-friendly session. Skilled instructors teach all the basics – from mounting and dismounting to balance and track control – with bikes provided free of charge. For kids who catch the cycling bug, this can be their first step toward full Track Certification. Visit Mattamy’s website for all the details and prerequisites.

Need a tropical escape? Step into the RBG Centre where year-round indoor gardens transport you to warmer climates. Wander through the Mediterranean Garden, Cacti and Succulent Collection, and stunning Orchid displays. Kids will love the hands-on activities in the Exploration Hall, and there’s always something special happening for families – from seasonal events to school break programming. The Royal Botanical Gardens spans an impressive 1,100 hectares in total, making it Canada’s largest botanical garden, but their indoor spaces are an adventure all their own. Be sure to check their event calendar before your visit – they’re always cooking up fun activities at RBG!

Step into an incredible piece of pre-Confederation history at this stunning 40-room villa in Hamilton. As you tour Dundurn Castle, costumed guides bring the 1850s to life, sharing fascinating stories of one of Canada’s first premiers, Sir Allan MacNab, and life in this grand house – from the family living upstairs to the servants working below. Kids will love exploring this Italianate-style mansion (it’s just like Downton Abbey!), complete with its impressive black walnut staircase and surprisingly modern features. Your admission includes the Hamilton Military Museum next door, where families can try on period costumes and enjoy hands-on activities while discovering stories from the War of 1812. 

Step into the birthplace of one of history’s greatest inventions! Kids will be amazed to discover that right here, young Alexander Graham Bell dreamed up the telephone from his special thinking spot overlooking the Grand River. Watch history come alive as costumed guides demonstrate what life was like in Bell’s time, and see the actual spot where one of the first-ever phone calls was made. The historic buildings, beautiful gardens, and hands-on demonstrations make this much more than a typical museum visit – it’s a journey back in time where kids can connect with the story of an invention they use every day.

Step back to the dawn of the Industrial Revolution at this fascinating National Historic Site. The star attractions are two massive 70-ton steam engines – the oldest surviving Canadian-built engines of their kind – that once pumped water to the entire city of Hamilton. Kids are amazed by the towering 45-foot pillars, turning wheels, and moving parts of these engineering marvels. The museum offers daily guided tours where knowledgeable staff bring the machines to life, plus hands-on activities that keep young visitors entertained. Model trains, interactive exhibits, and special workshops throughout the year make this much more than just a typical museum visit. Behind-the-scenes tours are also available for those who want to dive deeper into this remarkable piece of engineering history. 

Burlington’s Joseph Brant Museum brings history to life through interactive experiences perfect for curious minds of all ages. Kids will love exploring the three unique galleries filled with hands-on activities and fascinating artifacts. The museum tells the story of Joseph Brant ‘Thayendanegea’ and Burlington’s rich history through engaging exhibits and special programming designed to capture young imaginations. With dedicated spaces for family activities and rotating exhibitions, there’s always something new to discover.

Looking for a creative way to spend the day? The Art Gallery of Hamilton offers plenty of hands-on fun for young artists. Kids can explore their artistic side through year-round family programming, including interactive tours and art-making activities inspired by the Gallery’s extensive collection. During school breaks, the popular Kids’ Camps and Studios give children ages 6-12 the chance to experiment with different materials and techniques while discovering the Gallery’s exhibitions. From seasonal workshops to special family events, there’s always something new to create. Be sure to check their website for upcoming programs and activities. 

The Woodland Cultural Centre, now one of Canada’s largest First Nations-managed cultural centres, stands in what was once the Mohawk Institute Residential School (1828-1970), Canada’s longest-operating residential school. Today, this important heritage site is dedicated to celebrating and preserving Hodinohsho:ni cultures and languages through its collection of over 50,000 artifacts, engaging exhibitions, and educational programs. Families can explore this significant piece of history through guided tours and interactive exhibits, with both in-person and virtual options available. Check their website for upcoming programs and exhibitions.

Step back in time at this captivating living history museum where 35 carefully restored historic buildings tell the story of early Canadian life. Costumed interpreters bring the past alive through hands-on demonstrations of traditional crafts like blacksmithing and bread-making. Kids love exploring the vintage train and shopping for old-fashioned treats at the General Store. Throughout the year, Westfield hosts special events that make history extra exciting – including their famous Maple Syrup celebrations.