My Summer 2011
Look Inside for
at Exciting Attractions in Ontario
American Express presents
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Summer Fun 2011-Yours to Discover! Things to consider for those whose summer ‘Family Fun’ plans revolve around staying in the city: Doors Open Toronto offers open doors and free admission to 150 buildings of architectural, historic, cultural or social significance throughout Toronto all day May 28 and 29. Watch for Canada Day July 1st when our 144th birthday is marked through music, culinary arts, comedy, family activities, storytelling, games and film! And dine for less at over 100 of Toronto’s finest restaurants between July 8 and 24 as the city’s annual Summerlicious promotion offers residents and tourists special prix fixe lunch and dinner menus. There’s something for the whole family this summer at Ontario Place, Toronto’s waterfront destination for fun. The internationally acclaimed cultural, leisure and entertainment parkland just turned 40 and offers a large waterpark, theme rides, an arcade and many more attractions. Visit Canada’s majestic castle, Casa Loma and step back in time to a period of European elegance and splendour. The former home of Canadian financier Sir Henry Pellatt is complete with decorated suites, secret passages, an 800-foot tunnel, towers, stables, and beautiful five acre estate gardens. Toronto’s unique Harbourfront is home to Hot Spot 2011 – a series of festivals and cultural events that run from Victoria Day Weekend through to Thanksgiving. Explore ideas in contemporary culture and rich, artistic traditions from our own backyards and around the globe. Canada’s oldest private zoo is Bowmanville Zoo featuring over 300 creatures. Visit them amid 42 scenic acres of natural parkland. Visitors learn about the animals in unique and entertaining ways, particularly through first-hand experience like feeding wildlife from around the world or riding an elephant or a camel. Check out the amazing 400-seat indoor ANIMATHEATRE. Thirty minutes north of central Toronto off Highway 400, there’s truly something for everyone at Canada’s Wonderland. The world-class theme park is spread over 300 acres and has been packing them in for 30 years. Looking for the ultimate thrill? Some great entertainment? A quick spin? A cooling splash? From mild to wild, with the greatest variety of roller coasters in North America they’ve got it all!
Diversity Media Services is a wholly owned subsidiary of Multimedia Nova Corporation, an integrated communications company publicly traded on the TSX Venture Exchange under the symbol MNC.A
Lori Abittan PUBLISHER Joe Mastrogiacomo VICE PRESIDENT OF FINANCE Doreen Iannuzzi VICE PRESIDENT OF NEW MEDIA Joe March DIRECTOR, DIVERSITY MEDIA SERVICES Don Bettger DIRECTOR OF GROUP SALES
Ontario’s largest indoor amusement park is Fantasy Fair & Woodbine Shopping Centre. Situated in an authentic Victorian ‘Turn of the Century’ village, there are nine full-sized rides including an indoor Ferris wheel and the unique 1911 Antique Loof Carousel. Summer is “Green Season” at Blue Mountain located in beautiful Collingwood just two hours north of Toronto. Consider beautiful scenery, fabulous shopping and fine dining, Golf, Tennis, Hiking and Mountain Biking. Set the kids up at the resorts’ day camps while you luxuriate in the distinctive Scandinavian baths at Scandinave Spa. Or take the whole family for a treetop canopy walk or zipline cable gliding at Scenic Caves which also features Ontario’s longest Suspension Bridge. Escape to paradise by heading southwest of Toronto to Burlington to visit Canada’s largest botanical garden. Royal Botanical Gardens encompasses 2,400 acres crisscrossed by 27 km of walking trails. RBG incorporates untamed and cultivated landscapes, is home to 50 at-risk species and is a major stop-over for thousands of migratory birds. Or, for a truly wild experience for a one hour, high-speed ride upriver into the seven-mile long Niagara Gorge, through Devil’s Hole rapids, to the edge of the whirlpool at the base of Niagara Falls and back. The towering waves and swirling cross-currents within the gorge provide a natural “playing field” for simply the world’s most popular white-water boat tour: Whirlpool Jet Boat Tours of Niagara Falls Ontario. Heading eastward this summer is also a great idea. Stop in Kingston, Upper Canada’s first capital city where the St Lawrence River flows out of Lake Ontario and take a 1000 Island CRUISE. Enjoy the majestic scenery on a special Lunch Tour or see this unique collection of islands at Sunset. Ninety minutes northeast is the country’s capital city, OTTAWA with a wealth of activities, attractions and things to do. Take a trip to Parliament Hill to see the seat of Canadian government or experience our national museums. Shop for a unique gift at one of the city’s many boutiques. Maybe a thrilling outdoor adventure like white water rafting, world-class musical performances or exciting nightlife would suit you. With all there is to see and do, you and your family will need the all summer long to discover Ontario!
Danyele Capizzo DIRECTOR OF BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT Kathy Kerluke BUSINESS MANAGER Miguel Hernandez PRODUCTION SERVICES Anna Maria Arcuri GROUP CIRCULATION MANAGER
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105 Wingold Avenue, Toronto, ON M6B 1P8 For all Printing & Distribution needs call: 416.785.4311 EXT: 614 Tony Baron DIRECTOR OF PRINT & DISTRIBUTION James Arscott PREPRESS MANAGER
Photos courtesy of Ontario Tourism
Summer Fun in the City S
ummer has arrived bringing with it countless festivals and events across Toronto for people to enjoy.
Whether it’s music, dancing, food or family fun you are looking for, the City of Toronto produces a wide array of activities to choose from across the city. Doors Open Toronto, the city-wide celebration of Toronto’s architectural heritage. Get an inside peek at many of Toronto’s iconic buildings across the city when they open their doors to the public (May 28 & 29). Admission is free. Visit toronto. ca/doorsopen for a list of participating venues. Sunday Serenades is a free concert series taking place at Mel Lastman Square featuring live music, and dancing under the stars (July 10 – August 21). Fresh Wednesdays (July 13 – August 31) and Tasty Thursdays (July 14 – September 1), take place at Nathan Phillips Square starting at noon. These weekly events are ideal for those looking for live music, fresh produce or food hot off the grill. Summerlicious, presented by American Express, returns for its ninth year (July 8 – 24), offering the perfect way to enjoy a delicious meal at a great price. Food lovers may just discover a new favourite place to dine with 150 fine-dining restaurants serving three-course prix-fixe menus, throughout the city.
Visit www.toronto.ca/summerlicious for a list of participating restaurants and menus. Community produced celebrations of all kinds are happening throughout the city all summer long. Festival lovers will enjoy the 19th Annual Korean Dano Spring Festival, showcasing music, food and so much more (June 3 & 4) at Christie Pits Park. The popular annual Woofstock Festival returns this summer. This large outdoor event in the St. Lawrence Market Neighbourhood is for dogs and the people who love them (June 11 & 12). The annual International Indian Film Academy (IIFA) festival and awards will make their debut in Toronto (June 23 – 25). Watch for IIFA ‘BUZZ’ events around the Greater Toronto Area celebrating South Asian culture, dance, film and music. If it’s the great outdoors you’re seeking, take a ferry boat ride to Toronto Island and enjoy the sights and sounds of the 23rd Toronto International Dragon Boat Race Festival (June 25 & 26). This is just a sample of all the great things happening in the city this summer. For more information on these and other events to enjoy across Toronto, visit the City of Toronto’s event calendar at www.toronto.ca/eventcalendar to plan your summer fun today.
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FREE Admission to the Grounds at Ontario Place H ere at Ontario Place – Toronto’s premiere waterfront park – we are proudly celebrating our 40th anniversary by offering our guests FREE admission to the grounds in partnership with CTV, our official television sponsor. Our 40th anniversary season begins Saturday, May 21 and is jam-packed with exciting special events and a record number of over 2,000 live performances ranging from concerts to buskers and mariachi bands throughout the park all summer long. To keep the fun going, we are also staying open for evenings throughout the summer.
This year, the fun just won’t end. With over 30 exhilarating rides and attractions like GoZone, Soak City, Toronto’s only downtown water park, is expanding with Topsy Turvy, a new award-winning, two-person tube ride. The popular water park also now features a sand beach, lounge pool and a stage all right at the water’s edge overlooking Lake Ontario.
place every weekend in October on our West Island. It will includes a pumpkin patch, tractor rides, mazes, live entertainment, arts and crafts and a farmer’s market with fresh produce grown by farmers across Ontario. The park is fully operational seven days a week from June 9 to September 5. After Labour Day, the park will be fully operational on weekends (except for the waterpark) and on weekdays, the park will be open for walking the grounds or watching a 3D movie in Cinesphere. For more information about Ontario Place and our 40th anniversary celebrations, please visit www.ontarioplace.com or call 416-314-9900 or 1-866-ONE-4-FUN (outside of the GTA). Group discounts are available through the Group Sales Department at 416-314-9933.
The fun continues in our Cinesphere where the world’s first permanent IMAX® goes 3D. After major renovations which include the installation of an IMAX® 3D film projector, the new Cinesphere will now offer regularly scheduled fulllength Hollywood feature films such as Avatar and U2 3D. These feature films will accompany Cinesphere’s usual lineup of popular educational short film documentaries that include Hubble and Bugs! for 2011, all in IMAX® 3D. The 40th anniversary celebrations continue with a trip down memory lane in Through the Decades, a four-week event celebrating popular culture from the last 40 years. Held in the evenings, Through the Decades begins July 14 and each week will celebrate a different decade: the ‘70s, ‘80s, ‘90s and 2000s. Signature events and entertainment will highlight the best music, movies and fashion from each decade. Numerous special events and cultural celebrations will also be happening throughout the entire season, including a jaw-dropping fireworks display on Canada Day and the popular De Caribana Lime on July 31 and August 1, which celebrates Ontario’s ethnic diversity. This year also marks our first-ever extended fall season – a whole two months extra – until November 13. In October, we will present the Fall Harvest Festival, which takes
Celebrating
40 years of fun!
Visit ontarioplace.com to see our full line-up of events.
From IMAX® 3D flicks, to simply relaxing on a Great Lake, there’s something for everyone. Join us for our 40th Anniversary festivities.
IMAX® is a registered trademark of IMAX Corporation.
An Agency of the Government of Ontario.
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Are we there yet? By Agnes Ramos
The question that inevitably comes up in every family road trip is dreaded for a reason. Keeping your children occupied and entertained in the confinement of a vehicle can be challenging and tiring.
NIGHT GETAWAY
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1 HOTEL $135† † 2 PACKAGES $127 per night 3 atHALF PRICE † participating hotels RD NIGHT
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LET’SGO National sites, historic landmarks, incredible museums, celebrations...There’s no place like Ottawa to really get to know your Canada. And there’s no better way to do that than with our Get To Know Your Canada Getaway Package. Check online for details and book yours today! WWW.OTTAWATOURISM.CA 1-888-OTTAWA-8
See coupon on page 17
† Price is based on double occupancy. Taxes, transportation and handling fee not included. Subject to availability. Some conditions apply. Prices subject to change without notice. Starting prices vary by hotel and attraction selections. 3rd consecutive night at half price valid only at some participating hotels. 3rd night price based on 50% of room only rate. Call or visit our website for details.
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You can purchase the help of electronic gadgets such as iPhones, DVD players or gaming devices. But finding creative ways to entertain your children doesn’t have to burn a hole in your pocket. Planning ahead with these tips in mind will keep you, your children and your wallet happy. Stimulate their brains Bringing reading material and activity/colouring books are great inexpensive ways to keep your child’s brain stimulated. If you are on a tight budget, print pages off the Internet and compile them in a Duo-Tang or a folder. Visit your local library before leaving and let each of your children pick out a few books. To keep everything organized, pack individual backpacks filled with their books of choice. Get creative with travel games Make the trip go faster for the whole family by playing travel games. Look up a few games on the Internet, print the instructions and have them on hand when you feel that dreaded question about to leave the lips of one of your kids. Twenty questions, scavenger hunt, licence plate lingo, and I Spy are a few classics. Let them explore their inner photographer Disposable cameras are quick, easy to use and — most of all — cheap. There are usually 24 to 36 exposures so challenge your child to think hard about what they want to capture on cam. Giving your child a camera not only
helps bring out their creative side, but thinking about what photo they want to take next will keep their brains occupied. Having a camera in their hands could also be a practice in responsibility. Make the most out of pit stops When you hit a certain town, let your child pick a post card to send to a friend or a family member. For a few dollars, this collaborative activity will make them feel important and less likely to act out. Frequent washroom stops are unavoidable, but make the most of the open space by letting your children stretch and run around. This will lower their energy level by the time they get a chance to sit back down in the car. Choose the right snacks Sitting in the car all day can make your child feel sluggish and irritable. Pack snacks such as bananas, trail mix and sports drinks to keep your child energized. Bring a cooler with plenty of water and refreshing icy treats such as fruit popsicles and freezies. Use the power of music Bring some of your child’s favourite music along for the ride. Playing songs they like will get them in a good mood. Singing along and dancing will not only get them moving but can also lower their energy levels. On the contrary, bring the noise level down a few notches by bringing slow music that can help calm them down and lull them into a nap.
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Casa Loma Toronto’s Castle
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n the brow of a hill overlooking the city, a 98room castle dominates the skyline- Casa Loma. Explore the former home of Sir Henry Pellatt featuring unique architecture, beautifully furnished rooms, secret passages, towers, and an 800foot tunnel to luxurious stables. This Edwardian landmark is complete with soaring ceilings, rich wood carving, sumptuous marble and luminous stained glass. Five acres of beautiful estate gardens surround the castle and offer sparkling fountains, unique sculpture and dazzling displays of rare annuals and perennials that change with the seasons. Self-guided multimedia tours are provided in English, French, German, Japanese, Spanish, Italian, Korean and Mandarin.
Food, Fun & Celebrating over Entertainment... 25 years of Fun!
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tep aboard Kingston classic ships for the sights, sounds and tastes of the Thousand Islands. Kingston 1000 Islands Cruises’ theme is Food, Fun & Entertainment Ships, every day, offering the widest range of options in the Islands from sightseeing to fine dining. Going beyond the sights, enjoy the ambiance onboard with live music, entertainment and a range of unique events from wine tastings and fireworks to comedy and musical variety - Big Band to Blues . The focus of the company is hospitality and dining maximizing the enjoyment of the Islands and providing the highest level of service to our passengers
F
antasy Fair is Ontario’s Largest Indoor Amusement Park. Located inside Woodbine Shopping Centre, Fantasy Fair caters to children ages 3 to 11 with attractions such as rollercoaster, train, carousel and giant 3-level Play Village, midway games, family arcade & more! Fantasy Fair hosts FREE novelty shows regularly - visit website www.fantasyfair.ca for details. Fantasy Fair is a fun-filled place for the whole family. Open 12PM - 7PM Monday, (Tuesday - June - August ONLY) Wednesday, Thursday. Open 11AM - 7PM Friday, Saturday and Sunday. 500 Rexdale Blvd. Etobicoke, ON 416-674-5437 www.fantasyfair.ca
500 Rexdale Blvd, Etobicoke, ON M9W 6K5 Ontario’s Largest Indoor Amusement Park. Ride our train, carousel, ferris wheel & bumper cars! Visit the arcade, midway & more. Mothers Ride free on Mother’s Day and Fathers Ride free on Father’s Day Fantasy Fair is open year round Open Mon. - Thurs. 12pm - 7pm Fri. - Sun. 11am - 7pm
Tel. 416.674.5437 Fax: 416.674.8684
ktic.ca • 613 549 5544 www.MyFamilyFunGuide.ca / 2011 / 8 ktic_dms2011.indd 1
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wbcfantasy@avisonyoung.com www.fantasyfair.ca
Fun in the Sun By Agnes Ramos The sun is the giver of heat, light and day. Positive benefits of the sun include vitamin D and higher mood levels. However, it is commonly known that the sun can be a powerful source of damage to the largest organ in the human body — the skin. In the busy, activity-packed months of summer, it may be easy to forget about sun safety, but taking a few simple steps now will provide long-term benefits. Wear a hat Putting on a broad-brimmed hat will not only protect the skin on the face but it will also shade the eyes. Extra care should be taken for the skin on the face, as it is thinner and more delicate compared to the rest of the body. Be mindful of the sun’s peak hours The sun is at its peak between the hours of 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. Try to stay out of the sun during these hours. If it is unavoidable, cover exposed skin by wearing long-sleeved shirts and pants instead of shorts.
Escape to paradise Explore … • • • • • •
Over 2,700 acres of breathtaking gardens and nature sanctuaries. Three outdoor display gardens and an Arboretum A Mediterranean Garden under glass Three on-site restaurants and a gift shop Over 27 kilometres of walking trails and more New — Veggie Village: 100 Mile Produce Gardens, Hendrie Park
Year-round special events and exhibits • Auxiliary Plant Sales, May and September • Bloom Celebrations, May through July: Tulip, Lilac and Rose • Summer Music Series: Tranquil Tuesdays, Red-Hot Jazz & Cool Blues • Holiday Celebrations, November/December
Always wear SPF Even on a cool, overcast day, the sun’s rays still seep through the clouds. Apply 15 to 30 minutes before and after sun exposure. Make sure the SPF in your sunscreen is at least 15 and has both UVA and UVB protection. Don’t like the sticky feeling of sunscreen? Use a spray, which disperses thin, even layers. There are also many body lotions on the market that mix SPF into their formula.
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Log on to www.MyFamilyFunGuide.ca all Summer long for more money savings Summer Family Fun coupons!
Daily aDmission (subject to change) adult: $13; senior/student: $10; Child (age 5 to 12): $7.50; Family: $33.50; Child under age 5 and RBG members: FREE
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Avoid tanning Achieving the “healthy” bronzed look is still possible without having to cook under the sun all day. A tan is a result of melanin pigment being produced by the skin to protect against UV damage. Symptoms of sun damage could be dry and leathery skin, freckles, fine lines, moles, and premature aging. Instead of soaking up the sun try selftanners or gradual tan moisturizers, which are risk free.
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HarbourKIDS Circus I
Summer Family Programming Harbourfront Centre is your family hot spot. We offer kid-friendly programming all summer long, most of it FREE!
Here are a few highlights:
HarbourKIDS
Featuring The Toronto International Circus Festival co-produced with A three-day festival for kids under 12. May 21–23, 11am–5pm
Summer Camps
With over 45 camps, we’ve got something for everyone. July 4–September 2
Weekend Festivals
Enjoy kid’s programming at 3pm every Sunday, all summer. July 1–September 4
Full Summer Schedule at harbourfrontcentre.com While you’re there, sign up for our HarbourKIDS newsletter! Government Site Partners
Government Programming Partner
Major Partners
Government Programming Partners
Corporate Site Partners
Media Partners
Major Partners
f you ever wanted to join the circus, come to HarbourKIDS: Circus featuring the Toronto International Circus Festival from May 21 to 23, 2011. HarbourKIDS: Circus is part of Harbourfront Centre’s free art and culture events for kids under the age of 12 and their families. Learn clown tricks, hang upside on silks, bounce on a trampoline and show others your hidden talents at Circus School. You’re invited to clown around at the Natrel® Clown Club and watch some of the best circus performers in the world like Circa and the Canadian National Youth Circus as they do mind-blowing tricks and daredevil stunts. After all that excitement, visit the LEGO® Funhouse where you can be an architect, learn about the history of the circus, or take a picture dressed as a clown to show your friends. Come to HarbourKIDS: Circus and experience the greatest show on earth!
Spa relaxation in the heart of nature
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amed one of the “Top 50 Spas” by SpasofAmerica. com for both 2009 & 2010, Scandinave Spa Blue Mountain offers the renowned Scandinavian Baths experience. Situated in a natural forest, minutes from downtown Collingwood & Blue Mountain Resort, open all year from 10am-9pm, enjoy the serenity of the environment. The Baths include a Finnish Sauna, Eucalyptus Steam Room, Thermal & Nordic Waterfalls, Hot Baths, Cold Plunges & relaxation areas. Guests can rejuvenate and invigorate themselves by warming up the body in a hot bath, sauna or steam room. Here guests open their pores and start to release negative toxins. Then, by plunging in the cold water environments, they rinse off the negative toxins and close the pores of the skin. Also available are Registered Massage treatments including Swedish, Hot Stone & Sports Massage treatments. The Spa promotes relaxing packages and partners up with nearby accommodators for overnight getaways. Walk-in guests are welcome to eat at the on-site bistro which serves healthy, local fare.
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More Fun
s e v a C c i n e c S at • Suspension Bridge • Caves and Caverns • Gemstone Mining • Big Rock Railroad • Mini-golf • Playground (705) 446-0256
www.sceniccaves.com
RUNNING / HIKING SHOES REQUIRED
Three-hour guided tour includes
at ScenicCaves
• Tree-top Canopy Walk • 1000 ft Escarpment Zip-line Ride • 300 ft Forest Zip-line Ride • 425 ft Suspension Bridge • Caves and Caverns to Explore • Unique Flora and Fauna Tour RESERVATIONS REQUIRED
www.sceniccaves.com
• (705) 446-0256 ext.227 • Just 1-1/2 hours north of Toronto
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Ontario is one big Summer-long Festival
By Agnes Ramos Summer festivals don’t have to be confined to the regular run-of-the-mill events in the city. This year, get out of your comfort zone and explore the surrounding areas of Toronto. There is an abundance of festivals that vary from the usual to the outrageous just outside the city that guarantees to break your annual summer fest cycle. Celebrate the tastes and sounds of the globe at the Carassauga Festival of Cultures in Mississauga, just west of the City of Toronto. Running from June 3-5, the festival is Ontario’s largest multicultural festival boasting over 25 pavilions representing over 64 countries. Visit www.carassauga.com to learn more about the festival. Cheese lovers unite at the Great Canadian Cheese Festival. Cheese connoisseurs and culinary enthu-
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tumes will be the highlight of the festival. Visit www.caribfest.ca for more information.
siasts will get together, on June 4 and June 5, to celebrate Canadian artisan cheese. Wine, beer, cider and artisanal food sampling is guaranteed to satisfy any palate. The festival held annually in the beautiful Prince Edward County located in southeastern Ontario, is an hour and a half drive from Toronto. Visit www.cheesefestival.ca for more event information. Learn about Celtic culture at the Unionville Celtic Festival from June 8–10. Live bands on Main street will be kicking the festival off on Friday night followed by a Saturday night “ceilidh”, a Gaelic word for social gathering. Dance Sunday night away with an Irish “feis”, meaning arts and culture festival, which showcases Irish dance competitors. Unionville located near Highway 404 and Highway 7 is a 20-minute drive from downtown Toronto. For more information, call the Unionville BIA at 905-477-0117 or e-mail at info@unionville.com. Indulge your sense of hearing at the annual Cicada Fest in St. Catharine’s, located west of the city in the Niagara region. The three-day music festival has featured impressive lineups of musicians from all over Canada, the Unit-
ed States and the United Kingdom. To name a few, Juno winner Julian Fauth, Canadian Folk Music winner Ariana Gillis and Texas Music Award winners The Dust Devils have all taken the stage in previous years. Head over to www.cicadafest.com for more info.
If you’re looking for some good “Olde Tyme” fun check out the Binder Twine Festival in Kleinburg held annually on the first Saturday after Labour Day. The most popular activity of the day calls for eligible “young ladies”, age 16 and upward, to compete in the Queen contest where they call a hog, flip pancakes, hammer nails and milk a cow to win the title. It is guaranteed to be a fun-filled day of food, entertainment, crafts and activities for the whole family. Kleinburg is just a stone’s throw away north of Toronto in the City of Vaughan. You can find more information at www.bindertwine.ca
Enjoy the spirit of the Caribbean Island at the annual Caribfest in Barrie, between August 12 and August 14. The event promises food vendors, live entertainment, art and merchandise, along with non-stop dancing to reggae, calypso, steel pan and soca music. But a parade extending into downtown Barrie featuring vibrant dazzling cos-
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Log on to www.MyFamilyFunGuide.ca all Summer long for more money savings Summer Family Fun coupons!
Your Summer ESCAPE
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ith extraordinary lodging just steps away from dozens of dining, shopping and recreation options, Blue Mountain Resort is a summer getaway destination to be considered. Known to many as Ontario’s premiere ski and snowboard destination, Blue Mountain has created a year-round recreational playground with the addition of many summer activities on the resort property and events in the Village at Blue.
“There is never a dull moment at Blue,” says Village at Blue marketing manager Patti Kendall. “The quaint atmosphere of the village paired with the natural scenery makes it feel as if you have
escaped to a different country.” Adding to this is the unique design of the popular village accommodations and the lively outdoor restaurant patios. The Village at Blue also hosts many popular events throughout the summer, including SALSA at Blue Mountain and the Peak to Shore Music & Arts Festival, which have been recognized as two of Ontario’s best festivals. There are also plenty of activities for people seeking a more adventurous getaway. Ridge Runner, which is Ontario’s first mountain coaster, carries riders down a track that cuts through the trees of the Niagara Escarpment at speeds up to 42 km/h. Visitors to the resort can also make their way down the mountain via numerous hiking and biking trails. Other sport-oriented activities available include kayaking at Blue Mountain’s private beach or playing a challenging round at the award-winning Monterra Golf. A day full of activities is made complete
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by staying in one of 900 accommodation units available at Blue Mountain, which range from hotel rooms, village suites or mountain homes. Guests can save by packaging accommodations with recreation activities or by booking multiple nights. Visit www.bluemountain.ca or call 877-445-0231 for more information on accommodation and recreation options at Blue Mountain, your new summer escape.
C
atch a glimpse of years past with Fort George and Fort Niagara while traversing the same waterways used during the War of 1812. Hear about the history from the on board river guide who recounts events in the area, points of interest, the mechanics of the Jet Boat and thoroughly entertains passengers and maintains their safety and comfort while on board. Ride into the swift moving current as the gorge walls climb on either side of the boat to 200 feet above. See the power plants and watch the turbines roar as we cruise past at 80 km/h. The ultimate destination is the legendary Whirlpool, just a short distance below the turbulent water of one of the natural wonders of the world, mighty Niagara Falls. The anticipation builds as we head on back down through the rapids and introduce passengers to the power and excitement of the River ….. Gear up and get ready … this is something you have to try for yourself. www.whirlpooljet.com
www.MyFamilyFunGuide.ca / 2011 / 14
Travel tech placed in your hands By Agnes Ramos Looking to go on a vacation this summer? Thinking of going on a road trip? If you own a smartphone, you’re in luck. Name your travel needs and chances are, there is an “app” for that. Gone are the days when piles of itinerary papers, directions, restaurant or hotel brochures, and huge maps that never seem to fold the right way again burdened your supposed vacation. In the new age of technology, it only makes sense to enhance your travels with applications ready to aid you in a touch of a button. Just don’t forget to bring your car charger. Gas Buddy This app helps you make the most out of your dollar, despite today’s rising gas prices. Compatible with almost every phone with Internet, Gas Buddy lists the cheapest gas prices based on your location within North America. Talk to Me The speech-to-speech Android app aims to get rid of any language barriers that may occur during your trip. It takes whatever language you use with it and speaks back to you in your chosen translated language. Trip Journal Enabling you to document your entire vacation on an electronic journal, it keeps track of your travel routes, photos, videos and blog entries as well as stats such as distance, time and geography traveled. The app is integrated with social network sites such as Facebook, Flickr, YouTube and Twitter so that sharing with friends and family is quick and convenient. Where do kids eat free today? Although kids’ meals tend to be inexpensive, kids never finish their meals anyway. Restaurants offering kids eat free days have grown increasingly. Lower your trip costs by finding out which restaurants nearby offer free kids meals for what days. Yelp The website that listed customer reviews for places to eat, shop and relax now has an app. Compatible with most phones, this app can help lead you to great restaurants, shops and activities while steering you away from the not-so-great. Where Much like the Yelp app, this app is designed to give you a list of local businesses to heighten your trip experience. The app also lists local deals and recommends places based on your preferences. Sit or Squat In the middle of nowhere and can’t find a restroom within sight? You’ll never have to pee into a water bottle again. With over 105,000 restrooms listed in its system, you can find a restroom almost anywhere in the world. www.MyFamilyFunGuide.ca / 2011 / 15
Here are just a few interesting and fun destinations you can easily reach in ONTARIO this summer. Be sure to contact them or check their websites for hours and dates of operation, admission prices (if any), as well as to make reservations if necessary.
COLLINGWOOD /BLUE MOUNTAIN AREA Blue Mountain Resort 108 Jozo Weider Blvd. 877-445-0231 www.bluemountain.ca Collingwood Museum 45 St. Paul St., PO Box 556, Collingwood, ON L9Y 4B2 www.museum@collingwood.ca Scandinave Spa Blue Mountain 152 Grey Rd. 21, Blue Mountains, ON L9Y 0K8 705-443-8484 www.scandinaveblue.com Scenic Caves Nature Adventures 260 Scenic Caves Rd., Collingwood, ON L9Y 3Z5 705-446-0256 www.sceniccaves.com Village at Blue Mountain 11 km east of Thornbury Aug. 12–14: Featuring the Peak to Shore Music & Art Festival, 6 Stages and 16 bands at The Village at Blue Mountain, Collingwood and Thornbury 705-445-0231 www.villageatblue.com Wasaga Beach Sandy beach and forested park on Georgian Bay with swimming, hiking, historic site, jazz concerts and military re-enactments www.ontarioparks.com/english/wasa.html EASTERN ON 1000 Islands Cruises 1 Brock St. (Departure dock), Kingston, ON 800-848-0108 www.ktic.ca Bowmanville Zoo 340 King St. E., Bowmanville ON, L1C 3K5 905-623-5655 www.bowmanvillezoo.com Canadian Museum of Civilization Across Ottawa River from Parliament Buildings, Ottawa 100 Laurier St., Gatineau, Quebec K1A 0M8 www.civilization.ca/cmc/home Canadian War Museum 1 Vimy Pl., Ottawa, ON K1A 0M8 www.warmuseum.ca/cwm/home
Ottawa Tourism 1-888-OTTAWA-8 www.ottawatourism.ca Petroglyphs Provincial Park 2249 Northey’s Bay Rd., Woodview, ON K0L 3E0 705-877-2552 www.Ontarioparks.com/English/petr.html Golden Horseshoe Royal Botanical Gardens 680 Plains Rd. W., Burlington, ON L7T 4H4 1-800-694-4769 905-527-1158 www.rbg.ca Wild Waterworks 585 Van Wagners Beach Rd., Hamilton, ON L8E 3L8 1-800-555-8775, ext. 5007 www.conservationhamilton.ca/wild-waterworks NIAGARA PENINSULA Canadian Niagara Hotels ( Falls Avenue Resort ) 5685 Falls Avenue, Niagara Falls, ON L2E 6W7 905-374-4444 www.niagarafallshotels.com Clifton Hill Niagara Falls Box 60, 4946 Clifton Hill, Niagara Falls, ON L2E 6S8 905-358-3676 www.cliftonhill.com Fort George National Historic Site 26 Queen’s Parade, Box 787, Niaga ra-on-the-Lake, ON L0S 1J0 905 468-4257 www.pc.gc.ca/lhn-nhs/on/fortgeorge.aspx Marineland 7657 Portage Road, Niagara Falls, ON L2E 6X8 905-356-9565 www.marineland.ca Shaw Festival Theatre Box 774, 10 Queen’s Parade, Niagara-On-The-Lake, ON L0S 1J0 1-800-511-7429 www.shawfest.com Whirlpool Jet Boat Tours PO Box 1215, 61 Melville St., Niagara-on-the-Lake, ON L0S 1J0 1-888-438-4444 www.whirlpooljet.com Wineries of Niagara-on-the-Lake 25 wineries with tours, tastings, festivals and wine for purchase www.wineriesofniagaraonthelake.com NORTHERN ON Agawa Canyon Tour Train 129 Bay St., Sault Ste. Marie, ON P6A 6Y2 800-242-9287 www.agawatrain.com Algonquin Park Natural, cultural, and recreational features including hiking, camping, canoeing, fishing, wildlife, logging
museum Algonquin Park Visitor Centre, Highway 60 (13 km inside the East Gate), Whitney, ON K0J 2M0 (613) 637-2828 www.algonquinpark.on.ca Science North (science centre) 100 Ramsey Lake Rd., Greater Sudbury, ON P3E 5S9 705-522-3701 www.sciencenorth.ca SOUTHWESTERN ON African Lion Safari 1386 Cooper Road, Cambridge, ON N1R 5S2 (1-800)-461-WILD www.lionsafari.com Storybook Gardens 1958 Storybook Lane, London, ON N6K 4Y6 519-661-5770 www.storybook.london.ca Stratford Shakespeare Festival P.O. Box 520, Stratford, ON N5A 6V2 519-271-4040 www.stratfordfestival.ca TORONTO & GTA In Toronto call 311 or visit www.toronto.ca/special_events Art Gallery of Ontario 317 Dundas St. W., Toronto, Ontario M5T 1G4 416-979-6648 www.ago.net McMichael Canadian Art Collection 10365 Islington Ave., Vaughan, Ontario L0J 1C0 905-893-1121 www.mcmichael.com
CN TOWER 301 Front Street W. Toronto, ON M5V 2T6 416.868.6937 www.cntower.ca Fantasy Fair 500 Rexdale Blvd, Etobicoke, ON M9W 6K5 416-674-5437 www.fantasyfair.ca Harbourfront Centre 235 Queens Quay W., Toronto, ON M5J 2G8 416-973-4000 www.harbourfrontcentre.com Hockey Hall of Fame Brookfield Place, 30 Yonge St., Toronto, ON 416-360-7765 www.hhof.com Medieval Times Dinner & Tournament 10 Dufferin St., Exhibition Place, Toronto, ON M6K 3C3 1-888-WE-JOUST www.medievaltimes.com Ontario Place 955 Lake Shore Blvd. W., Toronto, ON M6K 3B9 416-314-9900 www.ontarioplace.com Ontario Science Centre 770 Don Mills Rd., Toronto, ON M3C 1T3 1-888-696-1110 www.OntarioSciencecentre.ca Royal Ontario Museum 100 Queen’s Park, Toronto, ON M5S 2C6 416-586-8000 www.rom.on.ca
Bata Shoe Museum 327 Bloor St. W., Toronto, ON M5S 1W7 416-979-7799 www.batashoemuseum.ca
Toronto FC BMO Field, 170 Princes’ Blvd., Toronto, ON M6K 3C3 416-360-GOAL www.torontofc.ca
Canada’s Wonderland 9580 Jane Street, Vaughan, ON L6A1S6 905-832-7000 www.canadaswonderland.com
Toronto Maple Leafs Air Canada Centre 40 Bay St., Toronto, ON M5J 2S2 416-872-5000 www.mapleleafs.com
Canadian National Exhibition Exhibition Place, Toronto, ON M6K 3C3 416-263-3800 www.TheEx.com Aug. 19–Sept. 5 only
Toronto Marlies Ricoh Coliseum 100 Princes’ Blvd., Toronto, ON M6K 3C3 416 597-PUCK www.marlies.ca
TORONTO ZOO Located North of Hwy 401 and Meadowvale Guest Services: 416-392-5929 www.torontozoo.com
Toronto Raptors Air Canada Centre 40 Bay St., Toronto, ON M5J 2S2 416 366-DUNK www.raptors.com
Casa Loma One Austin Terrace, Toronto, ON M5R 1X8 416-923-1171 www.casaloma.org
Wild Water Kingdom 7855 Finch Ave. W., Brampton, ON, L6T 0B2 1-866-794-9453 / 905.794.0565 www.wildwaterkingdom.com
www.MyFamilyFunGuide.ca / 2011 / 16
COUPONS
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www.MyFamilyFunGuide.ca / 2011 / 17
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www.MyFamilyFunGuide.ca / 2011 / 18
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