About this route:

Grab the sunscreen and make your way to these family-friendly spots in Tillsonburg, great for the frugal and budget conscious. Spots on this trip idea make for an affordable adventure with low-cost and free fun.

7+ stops on this route -  ~38 minute drive time (20 km)

Good for:

  • Families - stops include options that may suit your children (with ability to skip or swap depending on their age)

Things to pack:

  • Sun protection
  • Swimsuits and towels
  • Comfortable walking shoes
  • Cooler or picnic lunch
  • Waste free supplies (water bottle, cutlery, travel mug, tote bags)

Stop 1: Tillsonburg Regional AirportTillsonburg Regional Airport circle

Start your day with breakfast at the Skyway Cafe. This spot has wall-to-wall murals (can you find the puppies in planes?) and views of the planes taking off and landing. Kids meals range from $5-$8 plus a Seniors menu for grandparents in the same price range.

Already ate? See the heritage Harvard aircraft. If visiting on Tuesdays or Saturdays, you can pop in to the Canadian Harvard Aircraft Association to see the planes up close and learn from the passionate volunteers about these incredible machines.


Stop 2: Coronation ParkCoronation Park trail circle

Stretch your legs, soak up some summer weather and play your way at this versatile park.

This park has beautiful trails to stroll (Carroll Trail), a playground to climb on, and a disc golf course (bring your frisbee along) that older kids or teens will love. You might even spot some wildlife including ducks swimming around the pond. There are also picnic tables and benches to stop and take a moment to soak in the scenery.


Stop 3: Splash or Swim


Lake Lisgar Water ParkLake Lisgar Water Park slide circle

This water park paradise is made for the ultimate family adventure. Brave the 186’ giant twister waterslide or wade into the beach entry. Swim, slide, and wade then take a break on the grass, shaded by big beautiful trees (the perfect spot for a packed lunch picnic). Beat the heat and pay less by moving this visit to the end of the day (get half price admission for the last 2 open hours). Admission info here.

Memorial Park splash pad circleMemorial Park Splash Pad

Adventuring with little ones or looking for a free option?

Just outside of the water park is the Memorial Park Splash Pad and playground, great for cooling down and keeping the fun going.

Also in Memorial Park, you can find tables in the shade under the pavilion to picnic away from the sunshine.


Stop 4: Tillsonburg Town CentreTown Centre Mall public art circle

Cool off in the air conditioning and check out the public art throughout the Tillsonburg Town Centre.

Look up in centre court to see hanging pieces or stroll around and find the giant shopping bag paintings. Each piece tells the story of this community and was created by a Tillsonburg artist.


Stop 5: Skill Shot PinballSkill Shot Pinball circle

Grab some loonies and toonies then take a journey through the decades with some pinball.

Some machines offer 3 games for $2 and for around $13 you could play through all of the machines.

Did you know older machines have a mini xylophone inside to create those iconic sounds? Dan, the owner, can teach your crew some techniques, the inner workings, and history of the game.


Stop 6: Dinner options


The MillThe Mill kid circle

Head to The Mill for dinner, a renovated grist mill with a great view from the dining room and patio seating available. On Mondays they have a Kids Eat Free offer or BOGO Burgers on Wednesdays.

Tillson Pizza circleTillson Pizza

Grab a pizza to share at this local favourite. Get a large 4 topping pizza for only $16.50 before taxes or check out their combo options for added items and value.

This grab-and-go option is located just a stroll away from Annandale National Historic Site. Bring a blanket for a pizza picnic on the lush lawn.


Stop 7: Dad's Ice CreamDad's Ice Cream circle

Dessert time!

Head to Dad's Ice Cream and walk up to the window for a cool treat, made here in Tillsonburg by Shaw's Ice Cream. Enjoy a banana split that's big enough to share for $8.75 or a Junior Scoop for $3.99.

Choose from dozens of rotating flavours including Unicorn Toots, Monster Cookie, Dirty Soda and Grammy's Cupboard. Find a seat at the picnic tables or choose a rock to plop down on.


Summer trip iconTrip Tip

Make this trip your own by swapping the order, picking and choosing, or adding in other local spots along the way.


 

Learn more about these stops, get a map, and find a shareable URL.

Button: View Route Details

More ready-to-explore Summer trip itineraries Affordable Adventures