When it comes to planning a family vacation in Timmins, few destinations capture the charm, adventure, and comfort of Northern Ontario quite like the Senator Hotel. Nestled in the heart of downtown Timmins, this historic yet modern hotel provides a welcoming atmosphere where families can relax, explore, and reconnect.
From exciting outdoor adventures to cozy indoor entertainment, the Senator Hotel offers more than just a place to sleep — it’s a destination that caters to every member of the family. Whether you’re planning a summer getaway or looking for a cozy winter retreat, this guide explores the best hotel activities for families, local attractions, and weekend trips in Canada that make the Senator Hotel an ideal choice for your next escape.
1. Why Choose Senator Hotel for Your Family Getaway
The Senator Hotel isn’t just one of the most iconic landmarks in Timmins — it’s also one of the most kid-friendly hotels Ontario families can enjoy. With spacious rooms, modern amenities, and warm hospitality, the hotel combines luxury with comfort, ensuring every family member feels at home.
Family-Friendly Features Include:
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Spacious Suites: Perfect for families, with multiple sleeping areas and amenities like mini-fridges and microwaves.
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On-Site Dining: The hotel’s restaurant serves delicious meals for both kids and adults, with special menus to satisfy picky eaters.
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Pet-Friendly Options: Because pets are part of the family, too!
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Central Location: Walking distance to parks, restaurants, shopping, and Timmins’ top attractions.
Whether you’re in town for a few days or planning an extended family vacation in Timmins, the Senator Hotel is a base where comfort meets convenience.
2. Explore the Great Outdoors — Northern Ontario Style
No family vacation in Timmins is complete without experiencing the great outdoors. The region is famous for its scenic landscapes, trails, and year-round activities that both kids and adults will love.
Summer Adventures
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Gillies Lake Conservation Area: Just minutes from the Senator Hotel, this local gem offers a walking trail, sandy beach, picnic areas, and a playground. Perfect for a sunny day outdoors!
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Kayaking and Canoeing: Rent canoes or paddleboards from nearby outfitters and explore Timmins’ many lakes and rivers.
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Fishing Trips: Northern Ontario is known for its pristine waters teeming with walleye, northern pike, and trout. Many guided tours cater to families and beginners.
Winter Fun
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Cross-Country Skiing: The Porcupine Ski Runners Club offers beautifully maintained trails suitable for all skill levels.
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Snowshoeing & Ice Skating: Strap on some snowshoes and explore the sparkling winter landscapes, or enjoy skating at the Hollinger Park rink.
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Dog Sledding Adventures: Experience true Northern excitement with guided dog sledding tours nearby — an unforgettable memory for kids!
For families who crave a mix of adventure and relaxation, these outdoor excursions add the perfect balance to your weekend trip in Canada.
3. Discover Timmins’ Local Attractions
Beyond the beautiful wilderness, Timmins has a variety of fun and educational attractions that make your family vacation in Timmins unforgettable.
Timmins Museum: National Exhibition Center
Take a journey through local history, art, and culture. Kids can learn about the region’s gold-mining roots, Indigenous heritage, and wildlife — all through interactive displays.
Cedar Meadows Resort & Wildlife Park
Just a short drive from the Senator Hotel, Cedar Meadows is a must-visit. Families can take guided wagon tours to see elk, moose, and bison up close. It’s one of the best hotel activities for families if you’re looking to mix education with excitement.
Hollinger Park
A beloved Timmins landmark, Hollinger Park features walking trails, a splash pad, and a large playground — perfect for an afternoon picnic and playtime.
The Mountjoy River Trail
Ideal for biking or walking, this scenic trail connects you to some of Timmins’ most beautiful riverfront views and green spaces.
4. Indoor Fun: Relax and Play at Senator Hotel
After a long day of exploring, it’s time to unwind and enjoy what the hotel itself has to offer. The Senator Hotel ensures that your family has plenty of ways to relax, recharge, and have fun indoors — especially during those cozy winter nights or rainy afternoons.
Family Dining at Its Best
The on-site restaurant offers an extensive menu featuring both hearty comfort food and lighter fare. Parents can enjoy a gourmet meal while kids have their own kid-friendly options — a win-win for everyone!
Movie Nights and Board Games
Nothing beats ending the day with a family movie night in your suite. Bring your favorite DVDs or stream online, order room service, and enjoy a cozy evening together. The hotel also provides board games at the front desk for guests to borrow.
Fitness and Recreation
Parents looking to stay active can take advantage of the fitness center while the kids enjoy downtime in the lounge or recreation area.
Kid-friendly hotels in Ontario often offer convenience over luxury, but Senator Hotel strikes the perfect balance — making sure that comfort, entertainment, and relaxation coexist effortlessly.
5. Day Trips and Weekend Getaways from Timmins
Timmins’ central location makes it a great hub for exploring Northern Ontario. If you’re planning weekend trips to Canada, several nearby destinations are within a short drive from the Senator Hotel.
a. Kettle Lakes Provincial Park
Just 30 minutes east of Timmins, Kettle Lakes offers pristine forests and over 20 small lakes formed by retreating glaciers. Families can swim, hike, or rent bikes for scenic rides.
b. Cochrane Polar Bear Habitat
Only an hour’s drive north, this sanctuary is home to rescued polar bears living in natural, spacious habitats. Kids can learn about wildlife conservation and even watch the bears swim and play.
c. Kap-Kig-Iwan Provincial Park
A bit further south, this park showcases Northern Ontario’s rugged beauty with waterfalls, hiking trails, and picnic areas — an ideal stop for adventurous families.
These excursions make perfect add-ons to a family vacation in Timmins, offering variety and adventure beyond the city limits while still allowing you to return to the comfort of the Senator Hotel at night.
6. Seasonal Events and Festivals
Timmins hosts several family-friendly events throughout the year that coincide perfectly with your stay at the Senator Hotel.
Summer
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The Great Canadian Kayak Challenge & Festival: A lively weekend featuring races, food vendors, and children’s activities along the Mattagami River.
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Downtown Summer Concert Series: Live music, food trucks, and local artisans — all within walking distance from the hotel.
Fall & Winter
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Timmins Fall Fair: A classic country fair experience with rides, games, and petting zoos.
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Winter Carnival: Families can enjoy sleigh rides, snow sculptures, and fireworks — a highlight for any family vacation in Timmins.
No matter when you visit, there’s always something happening in Timmins that brings families together and celebrates Northern Ontario’s community spirit.
7. Tips for Planning a Family Vacation in Timmins
To make the most of your trip, here are a few planning tips for your stay at the Senator Hotel:
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Book Early: Summer and holiday weekends are popular times for family visits.
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Pack for the Weather: Northern Ontario weather can change quickly — bring layers for comfort.
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Plan Ahead: Reserve outdoor tours or wildlife park tickets in advance, especially during peak travel seasons.
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Stay Flexible: Leave room in your schedule for spontaneous activities — from nature walks to exploring local shops.
Whether it’s your first visit or a return trip, every family vacation to Timmins brings discoveries and lasting memories.
8. Why Families Love Senator Hotel
What sets the Senator Hotel apart is not just its convenient location or amenities — it’s the feeling of home it provides. Families appreciate the balance between adventure and comfort, knowing that after a busy day exploring Northern Ontario, a warm, relaxing environment awaits.
The staff’s friendly service, combined with the hotel’s commitment to cleanliness and guest satisfaction, ensures that every family leaves with smiles and plans to return.
For parents looking to combine comfort, adventure, and affordability, the Senator Hotel stands out as one of the best kid-friendly hotels Ontario has to offer.
Conclusion
A trip to Timmins offers families the perfect blend of adventure, relaxation, and discovery. Whether you’re canoeing across glistening lakes, exploring wildlife parks, or enjoying cozy evenings at the Senator Hotel, there’s something magical about experiencing Northern Ontario together. With endless hotel activities for families, nearby attractions, and opportunities for exploration, the Senator Hotel is more than just a place to stay — it’s the heart of your next unforgettable family vacation in Timmins. So pack your bags, bring your sense of adventure, and prepare to create cherished memories that will last a lifetime — right here at the Senator Hotel, where comfort meets family fun.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. What can families do in Timmins?
A: Families can explore wildlife parks, go canoeing, hike scenic trails, visit the Timmins Museum, enjoy outdoor festivals, and relax at family-friendly spots like Gillies Lake and Hollinger Park.
Q2. Are there activities for children at Senator Hotel?
A: Yes! The Senator Hotel offers spacious family suites, movie nights, board games, on-site dining for kids, and proximity to parks and family attractions around Timmins.
