Summer has arrived! Even though summer 2020 is looking a little different than usual, that doesn’t mean you can’t make the most of it!

If you were banking on travelling abroad or discovering another province this summer, don’t despair! We have put together a list of some of the most beautiful spots to visit in your province and a handful of fun at-home activities to try out during your summer vacation!

If the great outdoors is calling

Ontario

With more than 1.076 million square kilometres to explore, Ontario has more than a few prime picnic spots to enjoy! 

Before packing up your things and taking your family out to a provincial or local neighbourhood park, make sure that you familiarize yourself with the province’s guidelines and procedures by visiting their website or by visiting the Government of Canada website.

Garrow Park in Kenora, Riverdale Park East in Toronto and Robert Simpson Park in Arnprior are just a few picture-perfect picnicking spots surrounded by beautiful scenery. Take in views of the nearby lakes and beaches, breathe in the fresh crisp air and enjoy getting lost in the lush greenery all while respecting social distancing measures and provincial guidelines.

Quebec

Now that national parks are open to the public again, day trip adventures are back on the table! You are spoiled for choice with stunning parks around every corner throughout “La Belle Province.”

Further north, you will find the Parc National du Fjord-du-Saguenay where you can admire (as the name suggests) the Saguenay Fjord—a natural wonder and must-see attraction!

To the east, the Parc National du Lac-Témiscouata awaits! Trek down quiet trails and relax along the shores of the peaceful Petit Lac Squatec in the comforting company of your family.

If you head down south, you may just stumble upon the majestic Parc National des Îles-de-Boucherville where you can enjoy endless activities on water or land—and it’s just a hop, skip and a jump away from the big city!

New Brunswick

If social isolation has given you some extra energy that needs burning off, hiking is the activity for you! Lucky you if you live in New Brunswick seeing as -the province has more than a few hiking hot spots.

At the top of our list are the Mount Carleton and Mount Sagamook hiking trails, which are sure to reconnect you to nature if you’ve been cooped up inside for too long! 

In the southeast of the province, the Hopewell Rocks Park trails are perfect for the adventurous type looking to get moving and work up a sweat, but also for those interested in learning more about unique rock formations.

Nova Scotia

With fewer planes taking to the skies, stargazing has never been better! Starting June 29, Trout Point Lodge will be allowing visitors onto their property to take in the wonders of the night sky and even stay overnight in one of their on-site suites or chalets—if that’s what you’re in to! Several measures have been put in place to limit the spread of the virus and maintain social distancing guidelines. Why not make it an outing and plan a nature-filled picnic or a scenic walk through the woods?

Prince Edward Island

Can you hear the island calling your name? If so, it must be because it has been itching for locals to get out and about as summer revs up! The time has come to pump up your tires, pack your helmet, strap on your bike rack and drive out to Confederation Trail! There are 449 kilometres of nature just waiting to be explored this summer. Just make sure that you follow all of the province’s guidelines that are updated regularly.

Newfoundland and Labrador

The City of St. John’s recently announced that outdoor sports venues can now gear up to gradually reopen, which means that you can become a kid again with the youngest members in the family! The province has released a list of several spots that you can go to play tennis, try your hand at skateboarding and indulge in your favourite family-friendly sports.

Staycationing at home

If you prefer to spend your downtime at home, you can easily make up a personalized itinerary that showcases your own neighbourhood or backyard!

If staying in the backyard is more your pace, why not lay out your picnic blanket and checkered napkins for a good old-fashioned outdoor feast? If you have a small pool, you can enjoy the best of both worlds: the park and the beach!

Does visiting a national park sound a bit too adventurous for you? No problem! Taking a walk around your neighbourhood park can be just as exciting! Suit up the whole family with backpacks, grab some afternoon exploration essentials and get in your dose of nature!

You can go cycling almost anywhere and there are unique places to explore closer than you might think! If you would rather stay close to home because your kids aren’t quite steady on two wheels and heading into the outdoors isn’t in the plans this year, you can simply explore your neighbourhood! Designated cycling paths and paved roads may just be easier to navigate, and you can jump straight into the pool to cool down once you get back!
 

You don’t need to go anywhere to look up at the stars—your backyard or outdoor balcony will do just fine. If you have a secluded cabin, that’s even better! Go to Environment Canada’s weather website and visit the astronomy page to check out the “seeing” forecast. All you need is a good drink (warm or cold, depending on the weather), a cozy blanket to lay out on the ground, a killer playlist and you’re all set!