10 Best Theme Parks In Canada

Written by Joeri Van Overloop

As an adrenaline junkie and theme park enthusiast, I have had the pleasure of exploring countless amusement parks around the world. But let me tell you, none compare to the thrill and excitement that can be found in Canada's finest theme parks.

From heart-stopping roller coasters that will have your stomach doing somersaults to immersive worlds that transport you into another dimension, this is your ultimate guide to the best theme parks in Canada. So buckle up, grab some cotton candy, and get ready for a wild ride through the land of maple syrup and exhilarating attractions.

1. Canada’s Wonderland, Toronto

Canada’s Wonderland is a popular amusement park located in Vaughan, Ontario, just north of Toronto. This famous amusement park spans over 300 acres and features more than 200 attractions, including 18 roller coasters, two children's areas, and a 20-acre water park called Splash Works.

The park is a great destination for family fun and offers a variety of rides for all ages, including family-friendly rides and thrilling roller coasters. One of the park's most popular attractions is Leviathan, a roller coaster with a 306-foot drop that is sure to get your heart racing.

Wonderland, one of North America's most visited parks, is open from May to October and is a must-visit destination for anyone looking for a fun day out. However, it is important to note that the park can get busy during peak times, so be prepared for wait times on popular rides.

Overall, Canada’s Wonderland in Toronto is a great amusement park that offers a fun day out for the whole family. With its wide range of attractions, thrilling roller coasters, and family-friendly rides, it is no wonder that it is one of the best amusement parks in Canada and North America.

How To Get Here

By Car:

- From Downtown Toronto: Take the Gardiner Expressway to the Don Valley Parkway North, then take Highway 401 West, then continue onto Highway 400 North and exit at Rutherford Road.

- From Toronto Pearson International Airport: Head north on Highway 427 and merge onto Highway 407 or 401 East, then continue onto Highway 400 North and exit at Rutherford Road.

By Public Transit:

- From Toronto: You can use the Toronto Transit Commission (TTC) and York Region Transit (YRT) system. The YRT route 20 runs from the Vaughan Metropolitan Centre (VMC) station on the TTC's subway Line 1 Extension to Canada's Wonderland. The GO Transit also services Wonderland from various points.

Hours of operation

They generally open between 10:00AM and 11:00AM and close between 8:00PM and 10:00PM during the main season (May to September). The park is closed during the winter months. They also host special events like Halloween Haunt and WinterFest which may have different operating hours.

Ticket price

Season Pass at $89 and Day tickets for $44.99

Must-try

The Leviathan, one of the tallest and fastest roller coasters in the world, and the Behemoth, famous for its "airtime" hills that lift riders out of their seats.

Contact:

Address: Vaughan, ON L6A 1S6, Canada

Phone: +1 905-832-8131

2. Playland Amusement Park, Vancouver

Playland is the oldest amusement park in Canada located east of downtown Vancouver, British Columbia. It is part of the Pacific National Exhibition (PNE) fairgrounds, and is known for its family-friendly rides, carnival games, and exciting attractions.

One of the most popular rides at Playland is the "Log Ride," which takes riders on a thrilling journey through a water-filled flume. Another exciting ride is the "Dream Machine," which spins riders around in a circular motion while tilting at a 45-degree angle.

In addition to the rides, Playland in Vancouver also offers a variety of carnival games, including ring toss and balloon pop. Visitors can also enjoy mini-golf, a climbing wall, and a haunted mansion.

How To Get Here

By Car:

- From Downtown Vancouver: Head east on Hastings Street and continue to follow Hastings Street all the way out to the park.

By Public Transit:

- From Downtown Vancouver: You can take the number 14, 16, or 160 bus from downtown Vancouver, and all three will drop you directly in front of the PNE grounds.

- You can also take the SkyTrain Expo Line to Renfrew Station, then take a short bus ride or approximately 15 minute walk to Playland.

Hours of operation

Open from May through September, and operating hours are between 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM during low season and up to 10:00 PM in summer peak season. Playland is closed during the winter months.

Ticket price

A one-day PlayPass (covering all rides) typically costs  $30-$40 CAD for juniors (under 48 inches tall) and $40-$50 CAD for regular guests (48 inches tall and over). You can also get a Fun Season Pass at $89 and Thrill Season Pass at $129.

Must-try

The Wooden Roller Coaster is a Playland staple and one of the oldest wooden coasters in operation. Another one is the Atmosfear, a 218-feet high spinning ride that gives you a full view of the park and the surrounding areas.

Contact:

Address: 2901 E Hastings St, Vancouver, BC V5K 5J1, Canada

Phone: +1 604-253-2311

3. Galaxyland, Edmonton

Galaxyland, located in West Edmonton Mall, is the largest indoor amusement park that offers a variety of fun rides and attractions for the whole family. With over three and a half acres of family-friendly rides, this top theme park in Canada is the perfect place to spend a day of family fun.

Galaxyland is home to the world's tallest and longest indoor roller coaster, the Mindbender. It is a must-ride for any thrill-seeker visiting the park. However, if you are not a fan of roller coasters, there are plenty of other rides to enjoy, including bumper cars, a Ferris wheel, and a drop tower.

This World waterpark also features an arcade with a variety of games, including classic arcade games and modern video games. The arcade is a great place to take a break from the rides and have some fun with the family.

One of the best things about Galaxyland is that it is an indoor amusement park, which means that you can enjoy the rides no matter what the weather is like outside. Additionally, the park is family-friendly, which means that there are plenty of attractions for kids of all ages.

One thing to keep in mind when visiting Galaxyland is that wait times for some of the more popular rides can be quite long, especially during peak season. However, the park has implemented a virtual queue system to help reduce wait times and make the experience more enjoyable for visitors.

How To Get Here

By Car:

- From Downtown Edmonton: Take 104 Ave NW and 170 St NW to West Edmonton Mall.

By Public Transit:

- Edmonton Transit Service (ETS) offers several bus routes that stop at West Edmonton Mall. Depending on where you're coming from, routes 1, 2, 4, 14, 23, 33, 98, 100, 101, 102, 103, 106, 107, 109, 110, 111, 113, 115, 117, 122, 126, 129, 133, 136, 309, 310 are all routes that provide service to stops near West Edmonton Mall.

- The LRT does not go to West Edmonton Mall, but one can take the LRT to South Campus or Century Park and then take a bus that goes to West Edmonton Mall.

Hours of operation

- Monday to Thursday: 12:00 PM - 7:00 PM

- Friday and Saturday: 11:00 AM - 7:00 PM

- Sunday: 11:00 AM - 6:00 PM

Ticket price

-43 inches or taller $64

-Under 43 inches [110 cm] tall and over 2 years old $54

-2 Day Multi Park Pass $169

Must-try

The Mindbender is the largest indoor triple-loop rollercoaster in the world, making it a must-try if you're a fan of thrills.

Galaxy Orbiter spins you around while it zips along the track, giving a unique coaster experience.

Space Shot sends you straight up 120 feet into the air at high speed, then you experience weightlessness as you drop back down.

Contact:

Address: 170 St NW #2784, Edmonton, AB T5T 4J2, Canada

Phone: +1 780-444-5300

4. Calaway Park, Calgary

Calaway Park is a renowned amusement park located in Calgary, Alberta. It is Western Canada's largest outdoor family amusement park, offering an array of family-friendly rides and attractions such as the Timber Falls ride. The park has been entertaining visitors since 1982 and has built a well-deserved reputation for excellence.

Canada’s biggest waterpark, Calaway Park, is a great destination for thrill-seekers of all ages. With no less than 32 rides, the park has something for everyone. From roller coasters to water rides, there is never a dull moment at Calaway Park. The park also offers beautifully choreographed, high-energy entertainment that is sure to keep you on the edge of your seat.

One of the best things about Calaway Park is that it offers stunning views of the Canadian Rockies. Located west of Calgary, visitors can enjoy any of the park's rides while gazing out at Canada's famed mountain range. The park is also a great place to spend time with family and friends. It offers a variety of family-friendly rides and attractions that are sure to bring a smile to everyone's face.

Calaway Park is a popular destination, and wait times for some of the rides at Calaway park can be long, especially during peak season. However, the park offers a Fast Lane pass that allows visitors to skip the lines and enjoy their favorite rides without having to wait. The Fast Lane pass is available for purchase at the park and is a great way to make the most of your time at Calaway Park.

How To Get Here

By Car:

- From Downtown Calgary: Take 16th Avenue NW (TransCanada Highway/AB-1 W) west out of the city. After passing Canada Olympic Park, continue on the TransCanada Highway for about ten more minutes. The entrance to Calaway Park will be on the right.

By Public Transit:

-Calaway Park does not offer public transportation, but Calgary Transit has bus route #408 to Winsport and you can take a taxi from there.

Hours of operation

-Spring Hours: open May 18 to June 23 on Saturdays, Sundays and Holiday Monday only from 10am to 7pm.

-Summer Hours: Starting June 27, open daily from 10am to 7pm until August 28.

-Fall Hours: open Saturdays, Sundays, and Holiday Monday only from September 7 to October 14 from 11am to 5pm.

Tickets

-Regular (3-49 years): $51.95

-Fifty Plus (50 years & up): $41.95

-Children 2 and under: Free

-Season Pass (3 years & up): $145.95

Must-try

The Vortex roller coaster is a favorite among thrill-seekers, and the The Dream Machine is a classic swing ride that gives you a bird's eye view of the park.

Contact:

Address: 245033 Range Rd 33, Calgary, AB T3Z 2E9, Canada

Phone: +1 403-240-3822

5. Six Flags La Ronde, Montreal

I recently had the chance to visit Six Flags Park La Ronde, an outdoor amusement park located in Montreal, Quebec. The park was built as part of Expo 67, the 1967 World Fair, and is now operated by Six Flags under an emphyteutic lease with the City of Montreal until 2065.

One of the main attractions of La Ronde is its roller coasters. The park boasts several thrilling rides, including Le Monstre, a wooden roller that holds the title for the tallest two-track wooden carousel in the world. But if you're not a fan of intense rides, don't worry, this park also has plenty of family-friendly rides and fun things to do that are perfect for all ages.

During my visit, I was impressed by the overall atmosphere of the park. Saint Helen's Island, where the park is located, is a beautiful setting for a day of family fun. The park is well-maintained and the staff are friendly and helpful.

One thing to note is that wait times for some of the more popular rides at La Ronde in Montreal can be quite long, especially during peak season. However, the park does offer a Fast Pass option that allows you to skip the lines for an additional fee.

How To Get Here

By Car:

If you are in downtown Montreal, get onto Ville-Marie Expressway. Drive eastbound and take the exit 4 for Rue de la Commune/Boulevard Saint-Laurent/Chemin des Moulins towards Parc Jean Drapeau. Follow Boulevard Saint-Laurent and Pont-de-la-Concorde to Ile Sainte Helene.

By Public Transit:

Take Montreal Metro's Yellow Line and get off at Jean-Drapeau station. La Ronde is a short walk from the station. You can also take the 767 bus from the Jean-Drapeau metro station which operates when La Ronde is open.

Hours of operation

The park opens from mid-May to late October from 10:30 AM - 11:00 AM and closes around 8:00 PM - 9:00 PM. In the spring and fall, the hours are shortened and the park is only open on weekends.

Ticket price

Regular Pass at $69.99, Platinum Pass and Thrill Season Pass at $89.99, and Diamond Pass at $149.99.

Must-try

The Titan is a giant pendulum ride that swings riders over 147 feet in the air at 70 miles per hour, and the Vol Ultime, a high-flying thrill that flings riders 45 meters into the air while spinning around at high speed.

Contact:

Address: 2 Chem. Macdonald, Montréal, QC H3C 6A3, Canada

Phone: +1 514-397-2000

6. Fallsview Indoor Waterpark, Niagara Falls

I have to say, Fallsview Indoor Waterpark in Niagara Falls is definitely one of my favorite indoor amusement parks in Canada. The park is located on the Falls Avenue Resort, which is directly across from the beautiful Niagara Falls. The park is perfect for families looking for a fun day out, with plenty of thrilling water rides to enjoy.

The park spans across 3 acres and features 16 thrilling waterslides, a massive indoor wave pool, hot springs, and an outdoor sundeck. If you're looking for family-friendly rides, the park has plenty of options, including a splash pad and a Tiny Tot Splash Area for the little ones.

One of the unique features of the park is the 1000 Gallon Tipping Bucket, which is sure to make a splash. The Beach House Play Area is also a popular attraction, featuring interactive water play structures and a giant tipping bucket.

If you're looking for a more relaxing experience in one of Canada's top theme parks, the park also has an adult-only Jacuzzi Tub. Overall, the park is a great place to spend the day with family and friends, with plenty of fun rides and things to do for all ages.

How To Get Here

By Car:

- From Toronto: Take the Gardiner Expressway West to QEW toward Niagara/East Hamilton/Fort Erie, continue on Queen Elizabeth Way (QEW), take the ON-420 exit toward The Falls/Niagara Falls U.S.A., turn right onto Falls Avenue.

By Public Transit:

- From Toronto: You can take a combination of GO Train and GO Bus from Union Station to Niagara Falls. Once in Niagara Falls, the WEGO public transit systems Green Line will take you right to Fallsview Indoor Waterpark.

Hours of operation

-Winter Season: 12PM-8PM

-Summer Season: 11AM-9PM

Ticket price

-Day passes are $38.99

Must-try

The Canadian Plunge, a giant centrifuge-styled water ride, and the Toob Tower to slide down one of the four six-story-high tube slides.

Contact:

Address: 5685 Falls Ave, Niagara Falls, ON L2E 6W7, Canada

Phone: +1 905-374-4444

7. Canadian National Exhibition, Toronto

I have visited the Canadian National Exhibition Park, also known as the CNE or The Ex, in Toronto, Ontario, and it is a great place for family fun. The park is only open for 18 days at the end of the summer, but it is definitely worth a visit if you are in the area during that time.

The CNE offers a variety of fun rides, including a Ferris wheel, and carnival games that are perfect for families. The park also has many family-friendly rides that kids will love. However, some of the rides can have long wait times, so it's best to plan accordingly.

In addition to the rides and games, the CNE also features a variety of food options, including iconic fair foods, such as funnel cakes and corn dogs.

How To Get Here

By Car:

- From Downtown Toronto: Head west on Gardiner Expressway and take the Spadina/Lake Shore Boulevard cut off. From Lake Shore Boulevard, you can take a right onto Ontario Drive, which goes through Exhibition Place.

By Public Transit:

- From Downtown Toronto: You can take the 509 Harbourfront or 511 Bathurst streetcar from Union Station, both of which will take you to Exhibition Place. You can also take the Dufferin 29 bus southbound from Dufferin Station to Dufferin Gate Loop. Alternatively, the GO Train's Lakeshore West Line stops at Exhibition Station.

Hours of operation

- Gates open at 10:00 AM and close at 10:00 PM

- Buildings on the exhibition grounds typically stay open until 9:00 PM from Sunday to Thursday and until 10:00 PM on Friday and Saturday

- The casino is open from 12:00 PM (noon) to 6:00 AM daily

Ticket price

- General Admission (ages 14 - 64): $20 CAD

- Senior Admission (ages 65 and over): $15 CAD

- Child Admission (ages 5 - 13): $15 CAD

- Children 4 years and under are offered free admission

Must-try

-The Food: Every year, the CNE is renowned for its unique food offerings. From classic fair food to gourmet creations, there are choices for every taste.

-The Midway Games and Rides: From classic carousel rides to thrilling roller coasters, the Midway is a main attraction.

-Concerts: CNE features a wide variety of performances throughout its run, from big-name bands to local musicians.

-International Pavilions: This is a unique opportunity to explore global cultures, arts, crafts, and cuisines right in Toronto.

Contact:

Address: Queen Street West &, Dufferin St, Toronto, ON M6K 1K4, Canada

8. Calypso Theme Waterpark, Ottawa

As the largest waterpark in Canada, Calypso Theme Waterpark is a must-visit destination for anyone looking for a fun-filled day in the sun. Located in Limoges, Ontario, just 35 kilometers east of Ottawa, this park offers a wide variety of attractions for people of all ages.

With 35 slides, 100 water games, and two themed rivers, Calypso Waterpark is the perfect place for family fun. Whether you're looking for thrilling rides or a splash pad for the little ones, there's something for everyone here.

One of the highlights of the Calypso Waterpark is its massive wave pool, which is the size of three NHL rinks. With several different types of waves, this pool is sure to provide hours of entertainment for visitors of all ages.

In addition to the wave pool, the Calypso park offers a variety of family-friendly rides. From the fun-filled splash pad to the thrilling water slides, there's never a dull moment at this park.

How To Get Here

By Car:

- From Downtown Ottawa: Head east on Highway 417. Take exit 79 for Limoges Road. Turn right onto Limoges Road, and you'll find Calypso Theme Waterpark on your right after about 2 km

By Public Transit:

- Unfortunately, there are no public transit routes from Ottawa to Limoges where Calypso Waterpark is located.

Hours of operation

Open from June 1^st to September 2, the park opens at 10:00 AM and closes at 5:00 PM.

Ticket price

For people measuring 1.32 m or taller: $49.99

For kids measuring between 1 m & 1.32 m: $39.99

Children less than a 1 m tall can access the park for free.

Must-try

Summit Tower is the tallest waterslide tower in North America with a variety of slides and experiences. The Black Hole has two dark slides where you have no idea what's coming next. And the Calypso Palace is one of North America's largest wave pools.

Contact:

Address: 2015 Calypso St, Limoges, ON K0A 2M0, Canada

Phone: +1 613-443-9995

9. Centreville Amusement Park, Toronto

Centreville Amusement Park is a popular destination for family fun in Toronto. Situated on Centre Island, the park is just a short ferry ride away from the city. With over 30 rides and attractions, there is something for every visitor at Centreville.

This top amusement park In Canada is known for its family-friendly rides, including a Ferris wheel, bumper boats, and a train ride that takes you around the island. There are also many fun rides for kids, such as a carousel, a mini roller coaster, and a spinning tea cup ride.

One thing to keep in mind when visiting Centreville is the wait times. During peak season, the lines for popular rides can be quite long so it's best to plan ahead and arrive early to beat the crowds.

How To Get Here

By Ferry:

- The most common way to get to the park is by taking the Toronto Island Ferry from the Jack Layton Ferry Terminal at the foot of Bay Street and Queens Quay.

- Upon arrival at the ferry terminal on Centre Island, follow the signs for Centreville Amusement Park. It's just a short walk from the ferry terminal.

By Water Taxi:

- Water taxis are also available and typically depart from the same general area as the ferry terminal.

Hours of operation

Opens between 10:30 AM - 11:00 AM and closes between 5:00 PM - 8:00 PM depending on time of year. During shoulder season (spring and fall), the park opens only on weekends, and during peak summer months, it is open seven days a week.

Ticket price

-Season Pass: $95.00.

-Day pass for under 4 feet tall: $39.75.

-Day pass for over 4 feet tall: $50.00.

-Family Pass: $166.00 (includes 4 day passes)

Must-try

Log Flume Ride is a thrilling ride and a hit among children and also adults. And the Antique Carousel, a 110-year-old vintage carousel with 52 hand-carved animals.

Contact:

Address: 9 Queens Quay W, Toronto, ON M5J 2H3, Canada

Phone: +1 416-203-0405

10. Sandspit Amusement Park, Cavendish

Sandspit Amusement Park is a classic amusement park located in Cavendish, Prince Edward Island. It offers over 15 carnival favorites for all ages, making it a perfect destination for family fun.

Sandspit Park features a variety of fun rides, including the Cyclone roller-coaster, ferris wheel, bumper boats, and log ride. These family-friendly rides are perfect for all ages. The park also offers other attractions like miniature golf course, making it a great place to spend a day with your family.

One of the best things about Sandspit Amusement Park is that there are usually short wait times for the rides, so you can enjoy more of the park in less time. The park also offers a season pass that is valid to enter Sandspit all season long for everyone 36" tall and over. You can pick any ride with the Pick 1 Ride option, or choose from a selection of rides with the Pick 5 Rides or Pick 10 Rides options.

How To Get Here

By Car:

If you are driving, it primarily depends on where you are coming from.

From Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island:

- You would start on St. Peters Road/PE-2 W toward Marion Dr.

- Continue on PE-2 W. Take PE-236 N to Cavendish Rd/PE-6 W.

- Turn right onto Cavendish Rd/PE-6 W.

- You will find the amusement park on your right.

By Public Transit:

Public transportation options in Prince Edward Island are limited. There is a shuttle service operated by Maritime Bus called "The PEI Express Shuttle," which moves between Charlottetown, Summerside, Borden-Carleton, Wood Islands, and more locations. However, you would need to arrange transportation from the bus stop to the park itself since it doesn't drop directly at the park.

Hours of operation

-Open from June 13 until September 2 from 10AM-10PM.

Ticket price

-Any Day Pass: $31.00

-Season Pass: $117.00

Must-try

Cyclone Roller Coaster, known as Atlantic Canada's largest Roller Coaster offers an exciting and thrilling ride. The Tilt-A-Whirl is another fun ride that spins and whirls you around at a frenzied pace.

Contact:

Address: 8986 Cavendish Rd, Cavendish, PE C0A 1N0, Canada

Phone: +1 902-963-3939

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