Ontario Family Adventure: 5 Days of Fun on a Budget
Unforgettable family adventures await in Ontario, USA!
19 July 2023
Sophie Watts
US Travel Writer
Ontario, United States offers a variety of family-friendly activities for a memorable trip. Enjoy exploring the stunning natural beauty of the Finger Lakes region, where you can engage in outdoor adventures like hiking, fishing, and boating. Experience history and culture by visiting museums, art galleries, and charming small towns, and don't forget to indulge in the delicious local cuisine and delightful shopping opportunities along the way.
Travel plan
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- Check into the quaint and family-friendly Harbor Hotel with breathtaking views of Lake Ontario.
- Take a leisurely stroll through historic downtown Ontario, discovering charming boutiques and picturesque streets.
- Visit the enchanting Casey Park, perfect for a family picnic, with its lovely playground and scenic walking trails.
- Unleash your inner artist at the wildly fun Paint & Sip Studio, where creativity and laughter collide.
- Indulge in a delicious dinner at the local favorite, Ontario Diner, serving up comfort food classics with a modern twist.
- Dive into a day of water-filled fun at the popular Ontario Water Park, featuring thrilling slides, lazy rivers, and splash pads for the little ones.
- Embark on an exciting boat tour of Lake Ontario, admiring the stunning shoreline and keeping an eye out for playful dolphins.
- Enjoy an alfresco lunch at Mariner's Pointe, a waterfront restaurant serving up scrumptious seafood and stunning views.
- Head to Ontario Laser Tag Arena for a friendly, adrenaline-pumping battle with the whole family, lasers and laughter included.
- Savor a mouthwatering dinner at Bluewater Grill, known for their fresh catches of the day and vibrant nautical decor.
- Start the day with a hike through the breathtaking Chimney Bluffs State Park, marveling at the towering, sculpted cliffs along Lake Ontario.
- Enjoy a serene boat ride around Sodus Bay, a peaceful and charming spot for fishing, wildlife spotting, and tranquility.
- Break for lunch at Ontario's Hidden Gem Cafe, a cozy eatery serving up homemade, farm-to-table delights that will leave your taste buds dancing.
- Take a peaceful stroll through the whimsical gardens of Ontario Botanical Gardens, bursting with vibrant blooms and hidden nooks.
- End the day with a relaxing family movie night at the Ontario Drive-In Theater, complete with popcorn and nostalgic charm.
- Step back in time at the Ontario Historical Society Museum, where interactive exhibits and artifacts bring the rich history of the region to life.
- Enjoy a riverside picnic at Lincoln Park, soaking in the picturesque views and serene atmosphere.
- Embark on an enchanting horse-drawn carriage ride through the charming streets of downtown Ontario, feeling like royalty for a day.
- Discover the local flavors at Ontario Winery, sipping on their award-winning wines and indulging in a delightful wine tasting experience.
- Sample the gourmet delights at Ontario Food Truck Festival, a foodie heaven showcasing a diverse range of culinary delights from around the region.
- Spend the morning at Ontario FunWorld Amusement Park, where thrilling rides, carnival games, and cotton candy await.
- Relax and unwind on Ontario Beach, building sandcastles, splashing in the shimmering water, and soaking up the sun.
- Treat the family to a farewell lunch at Ontario's famous Smorgasburg, a lively food market offering a wide array of international cuisines.
- Channel your inner Picasso at the Color Me Mine Pottery Studio, where the whole family can paint and personalize their own pottery keepsakes.
- Bid farewell to Ontario with a tasty dinner at the charming Ontario Tavern, a local hotspot famous for their mouthwatering burgers and cozy ambiance.
Length of stay
Type of trip
How to get there
Plane
The best way to get to Ontario, United States by plane is to fly into Ontario International Airport, which is served by major airlines such as American Airlines, Delta, and Southwest. From the airport, travelers can take a taxi or rental car to their destination.
Car
Driving to Ontario, United States is a convenient option for those who want more flexibility in their travel plans. The city can be accessed via several major highways, including the I-10, I-15, and the 60. Traffic can be heavy during peak hours, so travelers should plan accordingly.
Train
Unfortunately, there are no train stations in Ontario, United States. The closest Amtrak station is in nearby Pomona, which is about a 15-minute drive from Ontario. From Pomona, travelers can take a taxi or rental car to their final destination in Ontario.
Boat
Ontario, United States is a landlocked city and does not have any ports or water access. Travelers looking to arrive by boat will need to find a nearby marina or port and make their way to Ontario via car or other means of transportation.
Bus
Traveling by bus is a great option for those on a budget. Greyhound and other bus companies offer service to Ontario, United States from many cities across the country. The main bus station in Ontario is the Ontario Bus Station, which is located in the downtown area.