QUEENSTON STREET, ST. CATHARINES
WORLDPRIDE 2014
ONTARIO: DIVERSITY AT ITS BEST:
For the first time in the paramount event’s history, millions of people are packing their bags and heading to Ontario, Canada in celebration of WorldPride 2014 Toronto. Over ten jam-packed and unforgettable days (June 20-29, 2014), supporters of the global LGBT community will proudly celebrate while incorporating elements of activism, education, history and culture. Whether you’re itching to dance the night away or are longing for a more laid-back CHURCH STREET, TORONTO
With such a vast land of varied cultures and landscapes comes huge opportunities. There are countless unique travel experiences waiting to be explored. Discover gay Ontario and create lasting memories.
BANK STREET, OTTAWA
SOMERSET STREET, OTTAWA
experience, WorldPride 2014 Toronto has something for everyone. From the enjoyment of events hosted by the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF), to the sizzling sounds of musical showcases of all genres, Pride Toronto has partnered with the city’s premiere cultural institutions to produce extraordinary programming. Just a few of this year’s WorldPride 2014
WELLESLEY STREET, TORONTO
programming highlights include divas Deborah Cox and Martha Wash, as well
ONTARIO
TORONTO
Canada is one of the most progressive
An inspiring place that brings the Canadian
thing, you can be sure to catch several
countries in the world and Ontario is proud to
big city experience to life, Toronto is a
film, photography, video art and painting
be a leading province in lesbian, gay, bisexual,
major international centre for culture and
presentations, or witness award-winning
transgender (LGBT) and two-spirited civil
business. It has a unique human quality that
theatre, drag artists, burlesque and dance
rights and equalities. Ontario provides top-
citizens and visitors alike appreciate and
performances.
class urban experiences, outdoor adventures
treasure. All cultures and walks of life are
and everything in between.
embraced in Toronto. A colourful tapestry
For more information about the incredibly
of communities enhance the social, artistic,
wide-ranging events WorldPride 2014 has
Nothing beats a comfortable, stylish, hassle-
political and economic dimensions of
to offer, please visit WP14TO.com. We can’t
free haven to rest up and relax while on
Toronto, including a vibrant, thriving and
wait to see you there!
the road. Ontario’s many gay-friendly bed
integral LGBTQ culture and community of
& breakfasts, inns and hotels will roll out
over 650,000 people.
the welcome mat for you. Ontario loves to
as international DJ artists David Morales and Quentin Harris. If music isn’t your
WORLDPRIDE 2014 HIGHLIGHTS Most events are FREE to the public.
celebrate sexual and gender diversity! We are
As host to one of the world’s largest
host to numerous Pride festivals and events,
annual Pride festivals and WorldPride
June 20 Opening Ceremony & Flag Raising
gay and lesbian film festivals, as well as an
2014, Toronto’s lively cultural scene and
June 20-29 Arts & Culture festival
array of other queer-positive celebrations.
animated neighbourhoods as well as some
June 25 Gala & Awards
Make sure you experience our great wine and
of the world’s greatest attractions welcome
June 25-27 Human Rights Conference
culinary, theatre, spa and golf offerings. And
Pridegoers from around the world. From
June 27 Trans March
your visit to Ontario isn’t complete without a
the moment you arrive, you’ll discover
June 27-29 Streetfair Arts & Culture Festival
taste of the great outdoors, where invigorating
that Toronto is a dynamic, energetic and
June 28 Dyke March & Stonewall 45th
adventures abound. Come to LGBT-welcoming
creative place, one of the world’s most
June 29 Pride Parade
Ontario where there truly is more to discover!
vibrant and welcoming cities.
June 29 Closing Ceremonies
Visit SeeTorontoNow.com For more ideas of things to do in Ontario, visit OntarioTravel.net/LGBT
TWITTER: DiscoverGayON FACEBOOK & INSTAGRAM: DiscoverGayOntario WEBSITE: OntarioTravel.net/LGBT
Visit WP14TO.com for full details
A visit to Niagara-on-the-Lake is like a stroll back through history. Enjoy world-class theatre, shopping, and historical sites, while discovering why the town has become a world-class culinary destination. Visit VisitNiagaraCanada.com
NIAGARA FALLS Niagara Falls is a destination unlike any other. From the top of the Skylon Tower to the base of Horseshoe Falls, Niagara Falls is an awe-inspiring vacation destination. The Falls give off a round-the-clock roar, a refreshing, and surprisingly far-reaching mist and a reminder of just how wondrous our natural world is. From the marvel of gazing at the Falls from innumerable lookout points to adrenaline-fueled activities like whitewater jet boats, there are many ways for all ages to experience an array of attractions. Visit NiagaraFallsTourism.com
NIAGARA REGION WORLDPRIDE 2014 TORONTO
The Niagara Region, only an hour drive from Toronto, has over 70 of the world’s finest, award-winning wineries. Touring the famous Niagara Wine Trail is without a doubt one of the most enjoyable of the many Niagara experiences.
WHIRLPOOL JET BOATS
TORONTO
ST. CATHARINES Whether your destination of choice or the home base for a Niagara getaway, St. Catharines is right where you want to be. You can explore the city at your leisure or take a short country drive to one of the surrounding cities. As well, we’re only an hour from Toronto and 45 mins from Buffalo, New York. St. Catharines is a culinary hot spot where the bounty of our locally grown fresh fruit and vegetables are transformed into delicacies in any one of our restaurants and wineries. Take a leisurely drive or cycle through the wine route, sample our internationally renowned VQA wines and stop for culinary delight. Whether you are in the mood for organic creations, ethnic flavours, waterfront dining, a relaxing café or a pub lunch, we have it all in St. Catharines. Visit TourismStCatharines.ca Visit ThisIsWineCountry.ca
OTTAWA, CANADA’S CAPITAL
TWENTY VALLEY Located in Niagara’s lush greenbelt, Twenty Valley encompasses the Town of Lincoln communities of Beamsville, Vineland and Jordan. Twenty Valley is a picturesque getaway and an extraordinary wineproducing and agricultural area. Just one hour south of Toronto, Twenty Valley is
home to over 30 award winning wineries. Enjoy rolling vineyards, spectacular views, and delicious wine tastings. You won’t find two winery experiences the same, but you will find consistently good wines as you explore. Feeling a bit peckish? Farmto-table is a way of life in Twenty Valley. From stylish restaurants to casual bistros, “seasonal” winery patios to roadside farmers’ stands…we have something to tantalize every tastebud. You’ll feel well restored after a Twenty Valley food and wine pairing! Golfing, shopping, hiking the Bruce Trail or stretched out on a massage table…whatever your form of relaxation, we’ve got you covered. Take your Niagara visit to the next level and enjoy a Twenty Valley experience. Visit 20Valley.ca
OTTAWA TWENTY VALLEY
NIAGARA REGION
Unique among Canadian cities and G8 capitals, Ottawa is a place of extraordinary experiences. Enjoy landmark capital sites, stunning cultural attractions, and a beautiful natural setting, all wrapped up in a relaxed urban vibe. Easily accessible, Ottawa is a two-hour drive from Montreal, and about a one-hour flight from Toronto or New York. Ottawa is a welcoming destination for lesbian and gay travelers, with an LGBT pedigree that extends back to the first-ever gay and lesbian public demonstration in Canada (1971). Visit the Supreme Court of Canada and Parliament Hill, where same-sex marriage was debated, and see the infamous “Fruit Machine”— used during the Cold War to “test” civil servants for homosexuality — at the Canadian War Museum. Today, Ottawa is home to very active gay and lesbian communities with an everexpanding variety of organizations and events—including a boisterous annual Pride Week in August. Downtown, the Bank Street/Somerset Street area is Ottawa’s premier gaybourhood, while the eclectic ByWard Market neighbourhood is another visitor favourite: a local farmers’ market and shopping district by day, with chic dining and lively clubs by night. Look for the Savour Ottawa program that’s all about locally grown foods. Visit OttawaTourism.ca
Laced together by the St. Lawrence River, Rideau Canal and Lake Ontario, The Great
and yachting await you. Home to Canada’s MUSKOKA
THE GREAT WATERWAY
best freshwater beaches, Sandbanks Provincial Park contains the world’s largest freshwater sand bar and dune system. The soft white sand and crystal blue waters
hosts an abundance of natural, cultural and
attract visitors from all over the world.
heritage riches that are a source of pride for
Explore The County’s Taste Trail and discover
the people who call it home. With pristine
sustainable farms, artisanal cheesemakers,
lakes, rivers, beaches and vibrant towns and
cafes and restaurants producing phenomenal
cities, the curious day-tripper or couples and
dishes using local ingredients. Pick up
families will have plenty to explore. Those
supplies for a picnic on the beach, stop at a
who appreciate the great outdoors will fall in
charming spot or splurge on a romantic night
love with the extensive network of walking,
out with a sophisticated, gourmet fine-dining
hiking and cycling trails that traverse the
experience. With all this and more, it’s no
entire region. Boat tours of the 1000 Islands weave slowly among tree-topped islets and larger islands with cottages, private mansions
TORONTO
Waterway region in South Eastern Ontario
secret why the Globe and Mail called Prince Edward County “the gastronomic capital of Ontario”. We invite you to sip, taste and
and castles. You can explore private beaches
savour your way through The County!
or the imposing sand dunes that rise behind
Visit Prince-Edward-County.com
a sun-lover’s beach of fine sand at Sandbanks
KINGSTON
chefs are peppered among the award-
Beautiful and lively Kingston is nestled half-
winning wineries of Prince Edward County.
way between Toronto and Ottawa, making
Visitors can join a wine tour and stop for a
it perfect for either a weekend retreat or
tasting along the Taste Trail or shop for local
a conference. Known for its markets and
arts and crafts along the Arts Trail. Whatever
striking 19th-century limestone architecture,
your passion or interest, you can experience
Kingston is a great base for exploring the
the land and water of The Great Waterway and let the local history come alive with your memorable journey. Visit TheGreatWaterway.com
PORT HOPE
Provincial Park. Artisanal foods and master
1000 Islands and the St. Lawrence River and its national park. Eating in Kingston has become an art form: home of Canada’s first cookbook, and with more restaurants per capita than almost any other city in Canada, we know food. Here you can enjoy exotic
Brockville is a city rich in history situated
tastes from around the globe without ever
alongside the St. Lawrence River and is
leaving the city or indulge in the exquisite
home of the world famous 1000 Islands. Tall
foods fresh from the field. With a plethora
ships, shipwrecks, hydroplane boat races,
of bars, restaurants, seasonal festivals and
boat cruises and some of the world’s best
even floating dance cruises, Kingston is the
freshwater diving make this community a
perfect place to blow off some steam. For
watery wonderland with sights, activities and
those with a love of history, sports, music or
events for visitors to enjoy all summer long
the arts, the possibilities for a perfect escape
and throughout the year. One of the most picturesque areas in the world, Brockville is a well-known tourist destination and is host to
KINGSTON
BROCKVILLE
are endless. While you’re here, visit Wolfe Island on the free ferry, or hunt for antiques in nearby villages! It’s always a great time! Visit VisitKingston.ca
countless festivals, events and fun activities for visitors to enjoy.
1000 ISLANDS & GANANOQUE
Visit BrockvilleTourism.com
Welcome to the world famous 1000 Islands region which is home to 1,864
Prince Edward County is surrounded by
individual islands, UNESCO Heritage site
water and you are never more than a few
and a UNESCO BIOSPHERE. Gananoque
kilometers away from a coastline vista. Tour
is a storybook small town perched on the
the winding country roads by car or bicycle and discover roadside stands, boutique wineries, farmers’ fields and artisan shops around every corner. Or tour the island from Lake Ontario, where first-class fishing, sailing
THE GREAT WATERWAY
PRINCE EDWARD COUNTY
banks of the St. Lawrence River, in the heart of the 1000 Islands, boasting 18th century buildings, cycling, kayaking, trails and the acclaimed Thousand Islands Playhouse and several of Canada’s top Signature
June 20-29, 2014
#DISCOVERON
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NORTHUMBERLAND
PORT HOPE
area include; a major Pride event featuring
Northumberland is a thriving, south eastern
Hope is a heritage community situated
a 1000 Islands Pride Flotilla in June. Add
Ontario region strategically positioned
on the north shore of Lake Ontario. Port
a Pirate Festival featuring Johnny Depp’s
along Highway 401 to access both Toronto
Hope is both an urban and rural paradise
stand in for the Pirates movies, our Big
and Kingston within a 1 to 1.5 hours drive.
with the perfect mix of heritage charm,
Bass fishing challenge, music and heritage
Northumberland County offers a range of
modern vibrancy and cultural allure. This
festivals, a spectacular show of fall colours,
experiences from historic towns to scenic
beautiful community boasts a heritage
luxury kayaking, funky downtown shops and
rolling rural areas to spectacular water
conservation downtown including Ontario’s
restaurants, every weekend is an excuse
settings on Rice Lake, the Trent River and
best preserved Victorian main street. The
for even more family fun!
Lake Ontario. Northumberland is a four-
Ganaraska River runs through the heart of
Visit 1000IslandsTourism.com
season tourism destination comprised
town past century old buildings. There are
of seven diverse, yet complementary
over 300 designated homes and building in
municipalities. Explore our lakes, rivers,
Port Hope, more per capita than anywhere
streams and rolling hills!
else in Canada. There are miles of waterfront
Visit NorthumberlandTourism.com
tails, a sandy beach and scenic country
Experiences including the Lost Ships Cruise on the Gananoque Boat Line. Events in the
Located one hour east of Toronto, Port
driving routes. This diverse and popular tourist destination offers numerous
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antique boutique and specialty shops,
EXPLORER’S EDGE
mecca for fine dining, wine, festivals, arts &
and breakfasts and inns. The Capitol
Kick back at the cottage or live large at
shorelines, numerous river systems, nature
Theatre offers year round professional
a luxury resort and spa. Cruise into the
trails, camping and scenic motorcycles
entertainment and a plethora of festivals
sunset onboard a steamship or hone your
routes, it’s no wonder Ontario’s Southwest
and events take place during the year
handicap on championship links. Meander
attracts nature lovers. Want family fun?
including the All Canadian Jazz Festival and
our charming downtowns, funky shops
Name your favourite music or fruit, and
the historic house tour. The friendly and
and friendly folk, or hit the trails for some
we’ve probably got a festival to celebrate it.
open minded people of Port Hope invite and
adrenaline-fuelled fun, summer and winter.
If your passion is food, Ontario’s Southwest
welcome all visitors to come for the day and
With all this and more, Muskoka awaits you
is a leading destination for wining and dining
stay the night, or perhaps the rest of your life.
- it’s year-round and conveniently close to
aficionados thanks to its deep agricultural
Visit PortHopeTourism.ca
home. One visit and you’ll see why we say:
roots. Come sample award winning VQA
Once discovered, never forgotten.
wines while enjoying a delicious meal
CENTRAL COUNTIES
Visit ExplorersEdge.ca
showcasing the best of farm-to-table dining.
We invite anyone in pursuit of fun and
MUSKOKA LAKES
excitement to visit Ontario’s Central
Just two hours north of Toronto and an
WINDSOR
Counties, comprising the special activities
hour south west of Algonquin Park, Muskoka
A sea of greenery… a waterway of immense
and fresh experiences of The Hills of
Lakes is a popular year-round getaway for
pleasure and opportunity... trails on the
Headwaters, York Region and Durham
anyone looking for a great Ontario vacation!
forefront of outdoor captivation and
Region. Here you will find the multicultural
Muskoka was given the #1 spot in National
retreat...a cultural tapestry bound by a
communities that define the Canadian
Geographic’s 10 Best Trips of Summer 2011
rich storied past… These are just some of
cultural mosaic together with awe-inspiring
and was highlighted as one of the Best Trips
the “snapshots of life” which can be easily
landscapes and abundant outdoor fun.
of the World 2012. Muskoka Lakes’ winter
created in Windsor Essex Pelee Island. The
Across the region, you will enjoy one-
tourism was most recently showcased in
region, being the southernmost in Canada, is
of-a kind festivals and attractions and
Daily Xtra (a Canadian LGBT publication).
bursting with an exotic and unique balminess
feel at home in vibrant cities and quaint
Muskoka Lakes offers an unlimited array of
during the summer and an exceptional
towns alike. And throughout your stay,
activities during spring, summer, fall and
mildness in winter. The terroir accentuates
you will feast on farm-fresh foods, relax
winter that include boating, snowmobiling,
the complexity and diversity of the local
with unique entertainment and soothe
camping, fishing, hiking and so much more.
ecology, providing opportunities for world
your spirit with country living and all the
Visit Muskoka Lakes to explore our trails,
class bird-watching, sampling close to 20
breathing space you need. Just a stone’s
rent a cottage and slip into “Muskoka Life”.
award-winning wineries, a plethora of unique
throw from Toronto, you are remarkably
We are home to some of Ontario’s best
dining delights and off-the-beaten path bed
close to magnificent parks, trails and paths,
restaurants, shopping and artist studios.
and breakfasts. Nightlife can be scintillating
renowned golf courses, gorgeous gardens,
World famous for pristine waters, granite
in ambience, eclectic music notes and social
eye-popping vistas, wineries, breweries
landscape and brilliant fall colors, Muskoka
exchanges. From the quaint and authentic
and a rejuvenating night’s sleep. For those
Lakes is a natural playground waiting for
local pub to the more upscale lounge, from
who want to enjoy the great outdoors, you
you to explore!
the intimate café to the alluring nightclub,
can go kayaking and canoeing in our many
Visit MuskokaLakesChamber.ca
there are many ways to be entertained and
fine restaurants and well-appointed bed
Visit OntariosSouthwest.com
waterways, cycling and hiking in our pristine parks and forests, zip lining and horseback
culture and the outdoors. With 900+ km of
left stimulated within the region. Caesars
SOUTHWEST ONTARIO
Windsor brings Las Vegas to the region with
riding and whatever else you want for that challenging surge of energy.
Shaped by nature and steeped in history,
luxury accommodations and a 24/7 casino.
Visit CentralCounties.ca
culture and charm, Ontario’s Southwest is a
Visit VisitWindsorEssex.com
CENTRAL COUNTIES
NIAGARA FALLS
spectacular concerts, restaurants, high-end
STARWOOD HOTELS
WINDSOR
ONTARIO DESTINATION PARTNERS
ONTARIO TRAVEL PARTNERS VIA RAIL CANADA
STARWOOD HOTELS AND RESORTS
VIA Rail is Canada’s national passenger rail service. Convenient downtown to downtown daily departures to and from Toronto, Montreal, Ottawa, Quebec City and Windsor allow travellers to discover Ontario and Quebec’s urban gems. Regular year-round services from Halifax to Vancouver offer a full touring experience of Canada like no other. Whether travelling in Economy, Business or Sleeper Touring class, VIA’s service is exceptional. Discover Canada with VIA Rail Canada, a more human way to travel. 1-888-VIA-RAIL (888-842-7245) Visit ViaRail.ca
Starwood Hotels & Resorts and the Starwood Preferred Guest program offer unforgettable experiences all around the globe with celebrated brands, Sheraton, Westin, Le Méridien, W, Four Points, Aloft, Element, St. Regis and The Luxury Collection. Here in Canada we have more than 60 hotels and resorts from coast-to-coast offering great urban experiences, delightful resort retreats and gateway destinations. As an initial founding member of Travel Gay Canada and present day national partner, we’re committed to supporting the LGBT community and providing a great way to experience travel. Starwood Canada is an active and enthusiastic national partner of Pride at Work. We are delighted that that World is coming to Toronto in 2014, but you don’t need to wait until then to get your pride on with Starwood. We look forward to welcoming you soon. Visit StarwoodHotels.com / SPG.com
DAYS INN Days Inn helps you travel more and spend less! Enjoy clean, comfortable rooms at great prices, free high-speed Internet, SolTerre Shower Experience, DayDreamer Sleep Experience and either a free delicious Daybreak Cafe breakfast or an on-site restaurant. We guarantee our friendly hospitality, exceptional service and great value will help make your stay enjoyable. With over 100 Canadian hotels coast to coast, there’s sure to be one at your next destination. Plus, you’ll always find the best rate guaranteed when you book direct: 1-800-DAYS-INN (329-7466) Visit DaysInn.ca
HILTON WORLDWIDE 10 brands. 90 countries. 4,000 hotels. 670,000 rooms. Countless opportunities to delight. An open door. A welcoming smile. An exceptional experience. That’s what we offer the millions of travelers who stay with us every year. And we never forget the reason we’re here: to delight our guests, team members and owners alike. We’re Hilton Worldwide. Welcome. Visit Hilton.com/Canada
ONTARIO TRAVEL PARTNERS
All Ontario destination and travel partners are proud members of Travel Gay Canada.
AIR CANADA Enjoy hassle-free transfers via Toronto – it’s convenient, all within one terminal and under one roof. When you connect from the US to our international flight network, there’s no need to clear customs or immigration, or claim your baggage – it is automatically sent to your next Air Canada flight. Experience why Air Canada was voted Best Airline in North America, four years in a row by Skytrax. When you fly with us, great fares are only the beginning. Add to that the most choice of non-stops flights, advance check-in online for your boarding passes, personal touch-screen TVs at every seat, and power outlets within easy reach. Plus earn miles on the Star Alliance frequent flyer program of your choice. Visit AirCanada.com
PARK’N FLY Park’N Fly is the only national airport parking facility with locations in Vancouver, Edmonton, Ottawa, Toronto and Halifax. It operates two distinct options; Drop’N Go™ Valet and Self-Park. Drop’N Go™ Valet Service ensures that a professional team of service providers looks after your vehicle while you are away. Valet Services are available at Toronto, Vancouver, and Montreal locations. Self-Park customers can find their perfect spot at one of our many locations, including Edmonton, Ottawa, Toronto, Montreal and Halifax. Self-Park is ideal for both long term and short-term stays. Visit ParkNFly.ca
WHIRLPOOL JETBOAT TOURS Our fully guided tours tell the story of the Niagara River, starting with the flat water and moving into the amazing Class 5 rapids of Devil’s Hole. Our specially designed boats plunge directly into the rapids, scooping up hundreds of gallons of water and delighting our guests! Whirlpool Jet Boat Tours truly are the experts when it comes to excitement. Our boat will amaze you as we perform our signature Hamilton 360 degree turn several times throughout the trip. You will learn about the Niagara River, the War of 1812 fought between the United States and Britain, the Niagara Gorge and the impressive hydroelectric power plants on both sides of the river. Our jet boating adventure is always one of the highlights of any visit to Niagara! Passengers are provided with all necessary gear and Coast Guard certified life vests. Passengers looking to stay dry can ride in the enclosed Jet Dome boat and experience the same thrilling adventure and awe inspiring sights without getting soaking wet. Visit WhirlPoolJet.com
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EXPLORE GAY ONTARIO
ONTARIO
OTTAWA EXPLORER’S EDGE CENTRAL COUNTIES TORONTO
Let us assist you in finding exceptional experiences and travel packages. Our partners across Ontario are ready to welcome you. Visit OntarioTravel.net/LGBT for gay-friendly accommodations, activities, dining and more. ONTARIOTRAVEL.NET/LGBT
SOUTHWEST ONTARIO
THE GREAT WATERWAY NORTHUMBERLAND
NIAGARA REGION