When summer heats up, Canada is the place to be. Temperatures are often cooler in many parts of the country, particularly in the mountains and in coastal regions, than in areas in the U.S. Visiting in the summer months when the weather is perfect and there is plenty to do is ideal. Consider Canada for the perfect family vacation, especially if you live near the border, which makes driving a feasible and economical option. When traveling to Canada, simplify navigating by dialing 411 Canada for directory assistance and help finding local attractions.

The U.S.’s neighbors to the north speak the same language. In addition, they speak French, predominantly in the East and largely in Quebec. Their government, health care, and education systems are very different. Canadians have a laid-back, easygoing attitude and welcome foreign tourists.

If visiting western Canada, no vacation would be complete without exploring Victoria and Vancouver Island, which you can access by ferry from Washington’s Olympic Peninsula, Seattle, and Vancouver, BC. Circumnavigate the island by car and take part in outdoor adventures ranging from mountain biking, hiking, fishing, kiteboarding, and sea kayaking. Spend the day in Victoria, British Columbia’s capital city, known as the “City of Gardens” for its pleasant, plant-friendly climate. Butchart Gardens is a must see, as is the city’s extensive park system—perfect for a picnic lunch.

In eastern Canada, visit the capitol city of Ottawa or culture-rich Toronto, Canada’s largest city and financial center. Explore Prince Edward County in southeastern Ontario, adored by antique-hunters and foodies. In northern Ontario, be sure to check out Algonquin Park, which consists of 7,725 square kilometers of lakes, rivers, and forests. Of course, there is always Niagara Falls on the border of the U.S. and Ontario. The entire Niagara region is worth exploring and easily accessible by car from upstate New York.