Ultimate Guide to Adventure: 5 Family Fun Escapades in Markham!
Hey there, fellow adventurers! Are you craving a family getaway filled with laughter, exploration, and unforgettable memories? While we may not have Disney or Dave and Busters, Markham is well know for it’s sports and historic scene. Here are my top five picks for an epic family adventure in Markham.
Markham Museum: Life Before Devices
Markham, Ontario, was officially founded in 1793 when William Berczy, a German artist and developer, led a group of approximately 75 German families to settle in the area. This marked the beginning of organized European settlement in what is now known as Markham. Today, Markham is a vibrant city with a rich history and diverse population. As a scout leader I’ve been many times to the Markham Museum and always find it interesting. It’s a 25 acre, open air museum with lots of things for the kids and I was impressed at the great questions they had about how life was. Step into the past and embark on a journey of discovery at the Markham Museum. Here you can explore historic buildings and hear the fascinating stories of yesteryear. With hands-on exhibits and engaging activities for all ages, we found ourselves immersed in learning and laughter at every turn!
Click here to learn more.
Rouge National Urban Park: Nature's Playground Awaits
There’s too much to say about this national treasure. I’ve hiked many parts of it and had lots of fun doing Geocaching with my son (which is a great way to explore and hike exciting for the kids).
There are over 50 kilometers of trails that wind through forests, meadows, wetlands, and along the scenic Rouge River. Don’t be intimidated, there’s a trail for every skill level and interest. Keep your camera handy as you will immerse yourself in the stunning landscapes that make Rouge Park a photographer’s paradise. From vibrant wildflowers to tranquil ponds, scenic bluffs and forests, every corner of the park offers picture-perfect moments waiting to be captured. Be sure to keep your eyes peeled for wildlife sightings! Rouge Park is home to a diverse array of species, including deer, coyotes, birds, and more. Birdwatchers will especially appreciate the park’s importance as a migratory bird stopover site.
Don’t forget to pack snacks and water and dress appropriately for the weather.
Click here to learn more.
Markham Pan Am Centre: Dive into Fun
At the Markham Pan Am Centre, families can dive into a world of excitement and adventure together! Whether it’s splashing in the pool, rallying on the badminton courts, or shooting hoops on the basketball court, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. As a parent, I love that the Centre offers a variety of activities that promote health, wellness, and family bonding. We often spend weekends here, cheering each other on as we try out new sports or simply enjoying quality time together in a fun and active environment.
One of our favorite activities is swimming in the Olympic-sized pool. It’s not just about swimming laps; it’s about laughter-filled water games, synchronized dives, and making memories that will last a lifetime. The kids love showing off their strokes, while my partner and I enjoy a leisurely swim or two. And when we’re not in the pool, we’re hitting the badminton courts for some friendly competition. It’s amazing how a little shuttlecock can bring out our competitive spirits and strengthen our family bond at the same time!
What makes the Markham Pan Am Centre truly special is the sense of community it fosters. From family fitness classes to community events, there’s always something happening that brings families together. Whether we’re participating in a parent-child sports workshop or cheering on our neighbors during a local tournament, we feel connected to our community in a meaningful way. And as we leave the Centre with tired muscles and full hearts, we can’t help but look forward to our next adventure-filled visit.
Click here to learn more.
Downtown Markham: Carousel Rides, Arcade Games, and More!
First up, hop aboard the Carousel for a delightful spin! With its charming animal characters and colorful decorations, this beloved attraction promises laughter and smiles for all ages. In the winter time you can go ice skating right beside the carousel as well!
Next, head to the Rec Room for an action-packed experience! Challenge each other to arcade games, test your skills at virtual reality experiences, or try your luck at classic carnival games. With a diverse range of attractions, there’s never a dull moment at the Rec Room.
After all that excitement, refuel at one of Downtown Markham’s many dining establishments. Whether you’re craving comfort food favorites or gourmet cuisine, you’ll find plenty of delicious options to choose from.
Click here to learn more about the carousel or here for the Arcade and Cinemas!
What else is there you ask?
While there not something epic happening there every day, you will find LOTS of great events happening there all summer.
Weekly Farmers Market: A great place to get local produce, meats and specialty items. There’s always entertainment as well. The weekly Saturday Farmers’ Market opens May 11th, 2024 and ends October 12th, 2024 (23 weeks).
You will find local musicians playing on the street, car shows, street festivals and sidewalk sales, the Fathers Day Weekend carnival and so much more.
I love going to the Farmers Market and the various events are great for meeting friends and shopping local. It’s so important to support our local businesses. We may love Amazon but supporting our neighbours is vitally important.
Click here to learn more what’s happening on Markham Main Street
What are your favs?
Let me know what exciting things you love doing in Markham and I’ll highlight it in one of my blogs or videos.
