Sports, recreation and travel for families

Children now need their own valid passport. However, if your child's name is on your own passport, the passport will remain valid for you and your child until it expires. But if your child travels without you, he or she will need his or her own passport.
1 800 567-6868

These dogs sniff and tell... but they won't bite! When you last came back from a family vacation outside Canada, you may have noticed detector dogs at the airport. They are a specially trained to stop illegal plant and animal products from entering Canada. Before traveling outside Canada with your family, find out which products you can or can't bring back to Canada with you.
1 800 442-2342

More than 220 reports on travel and foreign destinations are only a phone call or a click away. If you are a woman traveling alone or with children, the pamphlet Her Own Way: Advice for the Woman Traveller also provides practical tips and safety measures. Young people taking their first trip outside Canada, or planning an "eco" or "extreme" holiday should take a look at Out on a Limb: Advice for the Adventure Traveller.
1 800 267-6788

Canada provides consular services to all its citizens through a worldwide network of consular offices. These consular offices include Government of Canada embassies, high commissions and consulates. If you plan to travel outside Canada, you can consult the list of the Government of Canada offices in foreign countries in the publication Bon Voyage, But....
1 800 267-6788

From National Aboriginal Day on June 21, through Saint-Jean-Baptiste Day on June 24 and Canada Day on July 1, communities across Canada organize concerts, street parties, socials, dances, parades, and lots more to Celebrate Canada. There is something for everyone in the family.
1 866 811-0055

Few spectacles are more breathtaking than the flying displays of the Canadian Forces Snowbirds and the parachute demonstrations of the SkyHawks. Every summer the Snowbirds demonstrate their incredible flying skills at air shows across the country. You can learn more about the Snowbirds and SkyHawks online and find out where and when you can take your family to see them.

The RCMP's Musical Ride is an intricate set of horseback-riding drills and movements set to music. The Musical Ride thrills children and their parents every summer from coast to coast. To find out when the Musical Ride will be in your area, go to the RCMP Web site.

Check out Sport Canada and keep track of major games and events. You can also look for Canada's Olympic/Paralympic results or explore links to all the major national sports organizations.

Family-friendly destinations

Whether you want to travel into our country's past, experience our diverse cultures and traditions, or enjoy our spectacular outdoor landscapes and wilderness, Canada has the prefect vacation for you. Here are just a few ideas.

Be prepared for unforgettable experiences at any of over 40 spectacular national parks across Canada. Children and their families can join enthusiastic naturalists on guided tours or explore on their own. Our parks offer camping facilities for every level of adventure, from fully serviced to primitive sites. Order a vacation planner and start planning your family vacation today.
1 888 773-8888 (ask for operator 111)

Canada's history and stories come alive at Canada's nearly 900 national historic sites. Your children will love the hands-on activities and displays, which cover everything from the daring adventures of heroes to the everyday lives of ordinary citizens.
1 888 773-8888 (and ask for operator 111)

Explore national marine conservation areas and experience Canada's aquatic natural heritage. Families can hike along the shorelines and learn about the enormous variety of wildlife found in our wetlands, islands and coastal areas.
1 888 773-8888 (and ask for operator 111)

Located in the heart of Quebec City, the Plains of Abraham is a wonderful family playground. Don't miss the Canada Odyssey exhibition, a high-tech trip through the history of Canada. Your family can also attend a multimedia show, visit the Martello Towers, meet past historical figures, view a military encampment, and more.

At the Biosphere in Montreal, a team of experienced guides will help you discover water and the great ecosystems with your heart, head and senses. There's something for every member of the family at this leading-edge information centre.

Rediscover Canada's capital region. The region will tempt you with events, festivals and attractions for every member of your family.The many benefits of vacationing in our capital include visiting our national museums and art galleries. To find out more about their special shows, programs and exhibits for children call (1 800 465-1867) or visit:

• The National Gallery of Canada and its affiliate, the Canadian Museum of Contemporary Photography
  1 800 319-2787
• The Canadian Museum of Civilization
  1 800 555-5621
• The Canadian Museum of Nature
  1 800 263-4433
• The Canada Agriculture Museum
• The Canada Aviation Museum
  1 800 463-2038
• The Canada Science and Technology Museum
• The Canadian War Museum
  1 800 555-5621

Published: October 2003 Updated: 2005-10-28	Top	Important Notices