10 Best Family Day Trips from London, Ontario 

In this guide, we share the 10 best family day trips from London—all within 2 hours or less—guaranteed to make memories, no matter the season.

Looking to escape the city for a day of fun with the family? London, Ontario, is ideally located for easy access to some of Southwestern Ontario’s best beaches, parks, cultural hubs, and hidden gems. From sandy shores to wildlife adventures and historic sites, there’s no shortage of exciting options just a short drive away.

1. Port Stanley – A Classic Beach Getaway

Just 40 minutes south of London, Port Stanley is a must-visit during the summer months. Known for its Blue Flag-certified Main Beach, the town offers safe swimming, beach volleyball, and charming boardwalk vibes.

What to Do:

• Swim or sunbathe on the soft sand

• Enjoy a meal at GT’s on the Beach

• Ride the historic Port Stanley Terminal Rail

• Grab dessert at Broderick’s Ice Cream Parlour

Perfect For: Families with young children or anyone seeking a relaxing day by the lake.

2. Pinery Provincial Park – Sand Dunes & Forest Trails

Located just over an hour away in Grand Bend, Pinery Provincial Park is one of Ontario’s best natural getaways. With 10 km of sandy beaches, towering dunes, and over 300 bird species, this is an outdoor paradise for families.

Activities Include:

• Hiking and biking on designated trails

• Canoeing along the Old Ausable Channel

• Wildlife viewing and birdwatching

• Sunset picnics on the beach

Tip: Arrive early on summer weekends as it can get busy.

3. St. Jacobs – Market, Mennonite Culture & Theatre

Only an hour northeast of London, St. Jacobs offers a unique mix of shopping, food, and small-town charm. The St. Jacobs Farmers’ Market is Canada’s largest year-round market, with fresh produce, local crafts, and ready-to-eat treats.

Make a Full Day Of It With:

• A visit to the Mennonite Story Museum

• Watching a live show at St. Jacobs Country Playhouse

• Walking the village’s scenic trails and artisan shops

Bonus: Combine your visit with a trip to the nearby Waterloo Region Museum for an educational experience.

4. Stratford – Culture, Food, and Riverside Walks

Less than an hour northwest, Stratford is known for its world-class theatre, charming downtown, and beautiful parks. The Stratford Festival features family-friendly performances every season.

Family Favourites Include:

• Walking trails along the Avon River

• Paddleboat rentals and swan watching

• Sweet treats at Rheo Thompson Candies

• Picnics in Upper Queen’s Park

Don’t miss: The chocolate trail and Bacon & Ale Trail (for parents!).

5. African Lion Safari – An Animal Adventure

Drive just over an hour east to African Lion Safari in Cambridge for an unforgettable wildlife experience. This drive-through safari park is home to over 1,000 exotic birds and animals.

What Kids Love:

• Seeing giraffes, lions, and rhinos up close

• Splash pad and waterpark area

• Elephant swim and bird of prey demonstrations

• Safari bus tour (if you don’t want to drive)

Best Time to Visit: Late spring to early fall

6. St. Mary’s Quarry – Canada’s Largest Outdoor Pool

Located approximately 45 minutes from London, St. Mary’s Quarry is a former limestone quarry transformed into a massive outdoor swimming pool. It’s a popular summer hotspot with a sandy beach area and a floating platform for diving.

Family Highlights:

• On-site change rooms and snack shack

• Lifeguard-supervised swimming area

• Adjacent parks and walking trails

Open Seasonally: Late June through Labour Day

7. Kincardine – Lake Huron Charm & Scottish Heritage

A 2-hour drive to the west coast of Ontario takes you to Kincardine, where Scottish roots run deep. During summer weekends, the Kincardine Scottish Pipe Band parades through downtown—a truly unique and festive experience.

Things to Do:

• Visit the historic lighthouse

• Enjoy the family-friendly beaches

• Explore Geddes Park playgrounds and the splash pad

• Attend the Kincardine Scottish Festival (July)

Perfect For: Families who love culture, history, and beautiful sunsets.

8. Embro Highland Games – A Celebration of Scottish Culture

Held every Canada Day (July 1st), the Embro Highland Games are a fun, family-oriented celebration of Scottish tradition just 40 minutes from London.

Expect to See:

• Caber toss and tug-of-war competitions

• Highland dancing and piping competitions

• Sheep herding demos

• Children’s games, food vendors, and more

Why It’s Great: It blends culture, competition, and community in one engaging event.

9. Long Point Provincial Park – Sandy Beaches & Bird Watching

This Lake Erie destination is about 90 minutes from London and offers a quieter, less commercial beach than Grand Bend or Port Stanley. Long Point is a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, making it a great destination for nature education.

Top Attractions:

• Beach access with shallow water for kids

• Kayak rentals and marshland tours

• Birdwatching and wildlife spotting

10. Fanshawe Pioneer Village – A Local Historic Gem

Right within London’s city limits, Fanshawe Pioneer Village is an immersive experience perfect for younger children and curious minds. Families can explore 19th-century buildings and chat with costumed interpreters.

Why Visit:

• Learn how early settlers lived

• Seasonal events (apple fests, ghost walks, heritage days)

• Great for homeschoolers and school-age kids

✅ Final Thoughts: Explore More, Stress Less

With so many family-friendly day trips near London, Ontario, it’s easy to keep your weekends fun, fresh, and filled with new experiences. Whether you want beaches, animals, theatre, or history, there’s something for every kind of family adventure—all within a 2-hour drive.

🏡 Thinking About Moving Closer to These Hidden Gems?

We’re here to help! Whether you’re upsizing, downsizing, or just exploring your options, the Elevate Real Estate Group is your trusted partner in the London, Ontario area. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help elevate your real estate journey.

 

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Why Choose Elevate Real Estate Group?

At Elevate Real Estate Group, we understand that buying a home is a significant decision. That’s why having the right team by your side is essential. Our experienced realtors—Stewart Blair, Jeremy Odland, Brittany Wurfel, and Caitlyn Ford—bring unmatched expertise and dedication to every client.

Additionally, our in-depth knowledge of the London, Ontario, market allows us to guide you through every step of the process confidently. From the initial consultation to the moment you receive your keys, we’re committed to making your journey smooth and stress-free.

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