Top five summer vacation destinations in Canada for 2016

Staying home is the plan for many Canadians this summer. The lower dollar has forced many Canadians to finally start looking more seriously at the wonderful travel opportunities here in Canada.

The good news is that even though many Canadians are settling for a summer vacation in their home nation, there are countless great places to visit, many of which are untapped tourist destinations with lots to offer travellers.

The Toronto Sun recently put together some of the best options for “staycations.” Here are the top destinations in Canada:

1. Whistler, British Columbia: While it’s known for its skiing, Whistler is also a great place during the summer. “Take a bike ride around Whistler village or try some of the other adventure sports options the town offers. When you're hungry, feast on gourmet dishes at the Bearfoot Bistro, explore the homemade food and goods at the Farmer's Market and settle in for the night at one of Whistler's luxury hotels. The sights you'll see on the drive from Vancouver up the Sea-to-Sky highway is worth the trip alone.”
2. Drumheller, Alberta: Want to go on a family adventure? Drumheller is one of the most interesting and historical locations in all of Canada. “The unique attractions in this town include hiking the Fossil Trail to see real dinosaur remains near the Royal Tyrrell Museum, digging for fossils at Fossil World Dinosaur Discovery Centre and climbing the ‘World's Largest Dinosaur’ – a model Tyrannosaurus located in Drumheller.”
3. Niagara Falls, Ontario: A staple for summer vacations in Ontario, Niagara Falls has something for everyone: casinos, fun houses, the Falls and much more. “Take a spin and get a great view of the Falls on the Clifton Hills Ferris wheel, walk among butterflies at the Butterfly Conservatory, stay at a Falls-view hotel with a water park built right in at the Falls Avenue Resort or, go with just the adults, and take a memorable side trip to the many wineries of Niagara-on-the-Lake.”
4. Peggy’s Cove, Nova Scotia: A trip to the East Coast is a must for all Canadians. Its natural beauty and welcoming locals will more than make the trip worthwhile. “Peggy's Cove gets you up close to scenic coves, beaches and harbours. Whether you want to whale watch, kayak, golf or scuba dive, this area has it all. Not to mention the countless restaurants serving up the local’s specialty – lobster. Don't forget to try the mussels or haddock either.”
5. Ottawa, Ontario: The nation’s capital is the perfect location to learn about Canadian heritage through museums, galleries and more. “There's no better place for a family to learn the history of Canada and its cultural heritage than in the nation's capital. Among the city's many galleries and museums is one that is a must-visit for any family visiting for a weekend: the Canadian Children's Museum. Just across the Ottawa River in Gatineau, Que. and located inside the Canadian Museum of Civilization, this museum offers some hands-on fun with drop-in workshops that accompany permanent and special exhibits for children up to age 14.”