The top getaways for families from Toronto tend to be places where there's a lot going on and very little need to travel outside of a confined area. From resorts to tourist destinations, the idea is to pick a spot that combines plenty of activity for the kids and some rest and relaxation for the adults.

Here are my picks for the top weekend getaways from Toronto for families.

Clevelands House
Clevelands House is an old school style resort that brims with Muskoka charm and is designed specifically for family vacations. The accommodations are comfortable but not luxurious, ranging from stand-alone cottages to hotel-style suites. There's a ton to do here (i.e. swimming, tennis, golf), but best of all is the kids camp that occupies the little ones throughout the day.

Blue Mountain
When planning a family getaway, the advantage of an activity-based resort is that everything is close-by. You don't want to be driving all over the place during your vacation, which is why Blue Mountain is a good bet. From the multiple pools and hot tubs to the various sports activities to the host of restaurants on site, it's easy to fill a weekend without leaving the resort.

Rent at cottage at a Provincial Park
Renting a cottage is a favourite past time for family getaways, but there's more to do when that cottage is located at a provincial park (and they tend to be cheaper too). Many of Ontario's campgrounds feature roofed accommodations that offer the perks of being on amongst other campers (lots of kids to play with) and park amenities (sandy beaches and hiking trails).

Hit the beach at the Breakers
Families looking for a beach vacation on a budget should check out the Breakers in Cobourg. What makes it so friendly for young ones is that the beach is located just a few yards from the various accommodations at the resort. It's also reasonably priced, the staff are friendly, and there's plenty of grassy space bear the beach for when it gets too damn hot.

Soak up the kitsch in Niagara Falls
There's a good way and bad way to do Niagara Falls. Skip tourist traps like the Maid of the Mist (or Hornblower Niagara Cruises) and the Skylon Tower and instead check out the delights of the Niagara Parks system, including gorgeous bike trails along the Niagara River, the Butterfly Conservatory and Bird Kingdom, and then do Clifton Hill at night when the crowds have thinned down a bit.

Thanks to the Manitoulin Island Chi-Cheemaun Ferry for sponsoring this post

What did I miss? Add your suggestions in the comments. Photo of Blue Mountain by Derek Flack.