Seize the Sun: Places to Go and Things to Do this Summer

Step 1: When is the Last Day of School in 2018?

The days are getting longer and students (and teachers alike) are itching for their two months of sunny freedom. Here, we break down “when is the last day of school in 2018” province by province…

Step 2: The Places to Go and Things to Do This Summer

If a frantic Google search for “Things to do this summer” has led you here, you won’t be disappointed with these travel destinations both close to home and further away that shine by summer.

Edmonton

Photo by IQRemix CC-BY

Edmonton comes alive in the summer and this is one for a family road trip. Take on the River Valley by foot or segway, tuck into Alberta flank steak tacos — and no summer visit would be complete without an afternoon of barrelling down the waterslides at West Edmonton Mall.

Southern Quebec from the Ottawa Valley to the Eastern Townships

Outdoor families, take note! Pop over to Quebec for your next holiday where your list of “Things to do this Summer” will undoubtedly include hiking to the top of Mont Sutton, waterskiing in Tremblant and a refreshing lake swim — all matched to an affordable luxury stay.

Victoria

For a family-friendly weekend in Victoria, look no further than this Mom Tested, Family Approved Guide to British Columbia’s most regal city. An evening light show, a bug zoo and a “Prince and Princess” afternoon tea await!

Southern Ontario by the Water

When Toronto starts to get a little too sticky for comfort, it’s time to get to Southern Ontario’s best lakes, waterslides and pools. Take the edge off the stifling summer humidity by whisking the family out of the city with Ontario’s best freshwater escapes.

Vancouver

Photo by Dale Simonson CC-BY

See Van City through blue-coloured glasses by taking to the water. We’ve got a different water activity for ocean lovers to cover every day of the week: from a Monday half-price kayak rental around English Bay to a Sunday sunset paddling Kitsilano Beach.

Venice

Just because school is out, doesn’t mean that the learning needs to stop for all of July and August. This summer, you’re finally heading to Venice to delve into the city’s past as a storied empire — though we don’t blame you if there are a few gelato breaks in between. Our Italian editor has also added a handful of boutique hotel picks that guarantee your stay will be filled with history from the moment you wake up.

Tulum

Things to do this summer ought to include more Mayan ruin explorations, water tricycles and tortilla dishes covered in mole — where to? That’ll have to be an all-inclusive outside of Cancun in lovely Tulum!