As summer approaches (finally!), I know that age-old question comes up for parents of young children, “what am I going to do with the kids?”

Aside from many camps, I like a good day adventure with my 7 and 4-year-old to break up our summer routine. Equipped with snacks and a bag of many items that come with entertaining small children, these are a few activities I like to do with my kids on a summer day downtown.  

In the summer, Sydenham street turns into “The Commons” and offers a range of activities for kids like small play structures and flower chalkboards and if you’re downtown on Saturdays, your kids can join the “Screen-free Saturdays” activities that run from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m and feature live music.

Located between the downtown core and Queen’s campus, I love City Park’s splash pad because the big surrounding trees provide a bit of shade on a bright summer day.  

If you choose to walk along the waterfront in front of Confederation park, the kids will get to see the boats, a giant fountain and Engine 1095, the train located on the west side of Confederation park.  

If it’s unbearably hot outside or raining and you need a break from the heat, the Kingston Frontenac Public Library’s central branch on Johnson street is the perfect stop.  They also have great programming that sometimes occurs in Springer Market square: check their events section for details. 

Kingston Pumphouse currently has a very engaging exhibit called BEES! Featuring hands-on interactive displays (this trip is free if you book with your Kingston Frontenac Library card!).  There is also the Miller Museum of Geology, which is free, and features a large collection of mineral and crystal samples from around the world.

Not everyone enjoys eating out with kids but if you do, a few of our go-tos are Kingston Brew Pub, Wharf and Feather and Olivea. Kingston Brew Pub is a relaxed environment and our kids like their kids menu best, Wharf and Father and Olivea are great because there is lots of look at while dining; the docks and cruise launch are next to Wharf and Feather and Olivea is right beside Springer Market Square, lots of hustle and bustle to distract the littles!  

Happening Thursday evenings at sunset, the outdoor movie set up in Springer Market Square looks like it’s been plucked straight out of a Hallmark movie. There are always lots of activities lined up for kids to do and you can book special comfy seating through Star Lounge Reserved Seating to elevate your experience. The kid-friendly films are typical at the end of August for an earlier start time.

This year the films are:

• The Peanuts Movie on August 13 and
• Wreck-It Ralph on August 27

This locally owned theatre gives the coziest vibes and best popcorn. Check their website for up-to-date movie times. If there is a movie you’re hoping they will screen, they are open to suggestions for future show times!  

Bring the kids to see Cinderalla, do a craft and have some snacks on June 13 at 12pm. Tickets are $15. Find them at 70 Princess Street.