I think it’s safe to say that 2020 hasn’t exactly gone the way any of us had planned. None of us could have ever predicted what these last few months have thrown at us. If you’re like me though, you’re a ‘glass half-full, always look on the bright side’ kind of thinker! I’ll admit, 2020 has been challenging in so many ways, but – and here’s that positive thinking I warned you about – it has allowed most families a chance to slow things down and spend more time together. So, if you’re trying to squeeze in a few more family fun days before summer ends, I think a day trip close to home is just what you need!
There’s an adorable little village in the heart of Centre Hastings that you’ll absolutely LOVE exploring with your little ones. It might be small, but there is A LOT to see and do!
If you’ve never been to Madoc before with the kids, you’re totally missing out! Madoc has an awesome skate park & splash pad, an amazing bakery, delicious pizza, fabulous local restaurants, walking trails – and that’s just off the top of my head! Once you spend a day in Madoc, it will definitely become a family fun favourite – especially with the kids!
The Centre Hastings Park has two skate parks, a splash pad and a pretty impressive playset! You can’t drive through Madoc without the kids seeing it, so make sure it’s one of the first things on your list! Our two boys love spending time here. We usually bring their scooters with us so they can zoom around at the skate park after they slide down all the slides at least 20 times. There’s also a splash pad the little ones will love!
Another great place for some outdoor fun is O’Hara Mill & Homestead and Conservation Area. You’ll find some great trails for a family hike, or you can wander around the homestead and check out the buildings. My favourite is the old log schoolhouse.
After some outdoor family fun, everyone will likely be hungry. There are plenty of places to stop for food in Madoc including Oats & Honey Bulk Foods for snacks, Dino’s Pizza and Ace Pizzeria are perfect for pizza lovers, and for those with a sweet tooth… Hidden Goldmine Bakery has an awesome walk-up window at the back of the bakery. The Centre Hastings Park also has a canteen with fries, hot dogs, nachos etc.
If you’re looking for a nice family sit-down meal, Sunny Side Up right across from the park offers a diner style menu and is open for eat in or take out Thursday through Saturday. It’s a local favourite for breakfast and they even offer up authentic Japanese cuisine a couple nights a week!
Another great option is the Burnside’s Casual Dining. They do a range of food the whole family will love and according to most locals…they serve up the best burgers in town! Our youngest would try and survive on burgers if we let him, so we will definitely be checking this place out! Plus, Madoc Dairy is right next door if you want some ice cream for dessert!
Since this is 2020 after all, it’s important that you keep safety protocols in mind when you’re out exploring. Remind your kids to practice safe social distancing as much as they can when at the park playing or waiting to order ice cream.
It’s also important to know where you can find public washrooms since we all know kids have to use the washroom at the most inconvenient times. You’ll be happy to hear the family washrooms are open at Centre Hastings Park. Also, remember to keep masks for the entire family handy so you can all go into businesses or restaurants if needed. #FamilyMaskSelfie
As you can see, you could easily spend an entire day exploring Madoc and still not experience everything. But hey – a great excuse to go back, right? And trust me…the kids will ask! (Multiple times!)
