Canada’s Wonderland

Less than an hour’s drive north of Toronto sits the largest amusement park in Canada. Featuring the third-largest collection of roller coasters in the world, Canada’s Wonderland delivers big thrills, but it also hosts a full lineup of summer events around which families can plan their travels north. 

From the wonderful flavors of Brew & BBQ to the Irish dancers and hearty shepherd’s pie of Taste of Ireland, the park’s summer season offers an impressive lineup of multiday festivals and events. The multiweek Celebration Canada — the largest Canada Day event in the Greater Toronto Area — arrives in July, offering lots of live music, lumberjack demonstrations and plenty of poutine (the iconic Canadian dish of french fries topped with cheese curds and gravy). 

When it comes to thrills, the 300-acre park boasts Leviathan, the tallest and fastest roller coaster in Canada. The ride plunges from a 92-meter (306-foot) peak and reaches speeds of up to 148 kilometers per hour (92 miles per hour). There’s also Yukon Striker, which holds records for being the world’s fastest, longest and tallest dive coaster. Riders hang over a 90-degree drop for three seconds, before reaching speeds of up to 130 kilometers per hour and traveling through a 360-degree loop. 

Those looking for something a little tamer will enjoy Wilde Beast, which features a figure-eight, out-and-back design and reaches speeds of 90 kilometers per hour. It is one of three wooden roller coasters and one of four that have been here since the park opened in 1981.

When it’s time to cool off, Canada’s Wonderland is also home to the 20-acre Splash Works Waterpark, which features 17 waterslides and is included with park admission. Opens May 5; 1 Canada’s Wonderland Dr., Vaughan, Ontario L6A 1S6, canadaswonderland.com