THE ANNUAL BEST OF ONTARIO ontariotravel.net

VOLUME TWO • ISSUE ONE
ONTARIO
#DISCOVERON
THE ANNUAL
BEST
OF ONTARIO
ontariotravel.net
Ontario Tourism Marketing Partnership
Corporation (OTMPC) Ontario Ministry
of Tourism, Culture and Sport
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(click on partnership opportunities).
Or call Nicole Papineau, OTMPC – Sales
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Email: [email protected]
ADDITIONAL TRAVEL INFORMATION
For additional travel information on Ontario,
please call the following numbers:
From Canada, Continental U.S.A. and Hawaii
English: 1-800-ONTARIO or 1-800-668-2746
From Canada: French: 1-800-268-3736
Teletypewriter – TTY/Telecommunications
Device for the Deaf (TDD): 1-888-908-8825
We provide information to assist
travellers with disabilities. Accessibility
information is collected to address a variety
of special needs. Please call the toll-free line
and counsellors will assist you with the details
you need to plan and enjoy travel throughout
Ontario.
INTERNATIONAL ENQUIRIES
Contact the appropriate Canadian embassy or
overseas consulate for information on Ontario.
For more information, visit canada.ca
International visitors can also obtain
information on Ontario through ontariotravel.net
RENSEIGNEMENTS EN FRANÇAIS
Nous sommes heureux de vous offrir un
service d’information touristique en français.
Veuillez composer le 905 754-1963 et il nous
fera plaisir de vous aider.
Brampton
WELCOME
TO
SUMMER
2015
Ontario Tourism Marketing Partnership
Corporation accepts no liability for errors
or omissions. The information and services
contained in this publication are offered as
a matter of interest and are believed to be
correct and accurate at the time of printing.
The inclusion of any advertisement in this
publication does not imply or constitute an
endorsement or acceptance by the Province of
Ontario of any of the advertisers, products or
services advertised, and the Ontario Ministry of
Tourism, Culture and Sport is not responsible
for errors or omissions or misrepresentations
contained in any advertisement. All rights
reserved. No part of this publication may be
reproduced in any form without permission
in writing from Ontario Tourism Marketing
Partnership Corporation.
Your Quest for the Best
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change.
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Live Chat – one of our knowledgeable travel counsellors
can help you plan your trip.
© 2015 Printed in Canada
Printer: St. Joseph
Communications-Print Group,
Concord, ON
FPO
Look no further than Ontario. We have top festivals.
Ultimate adventures. And an endless list of everything.
Start your trip-planning at ontariotravel.net/tripplanner.
It’s fast and easy! Read cool itineraries bursting with
something for everyone. Customize your own trip plan.
Then hit the road! The best stories start in Ontario.
E&OE 06-15-1.25M-020045
Front Cover: Georgian Bay
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3
6
TORONTO
Study the breathtaking
Islamic artefacts at the
Aga Khan Museum.
THE
URBAN
ESCAPE
PLAN
ESCAPE THE PAPARAZZI.
SNOOZE HERE.
Segway Spin.
Explore one of Toronto’s
most interesting
destinations on a twowheeled electric vehicle.
The Distillery Historic District
The Distillery
Historic District
This experience
is included on the
Feel the Pulse of Toronto
itinerary on
our Trip Planner at
Meet Toronto’s hottest designers
where their works come to life,
sample the creative flavours of
leading chefs and applaud live
performances, all in the setting of
a transformed whiskey distillery.
Hola.
The funky Mexican
El Catrin restaurant
has been rated one
of the best places
in the city to enjoy
a patio drink.
Craft Beer.
Whether you’re craving
lunch, dinner, snack
or a pint, the Mill Street
Brew Pub makes life
taste better.
Live performances.
The Soulpepper
Theatre Company
bursts with creative
performances
using artists who
live and play in the
Toronto area.
Chocolate.
Chocolate. You’ll love
the fifth food group
more than ever after
sampling the mouthwatering creations of
the creative chocolate
makers at SOMA.
7
ontariotravel.net
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4
2
CN TOWER
RIPLEY’S AQUARIUM OF CANADA
Shoot up the high-speed
elevator to see Toronto’s best
in one shot. Go for a heartthumping stroll on EdgeWalk.
If you dare, stand on glass
and look down at the ant-sized
people below. Only for the
bravest of souls.
Hunt an elusive shark. Make
jokes with clown fish. Chat with
divers submerged in a world of
stingrays. And jam with your
favourite gelatinous creature:
the jellyfish.
Plan your trip now at ontariotravel.net
3/4
3CHELSEA HOTEL
4RIPLEY’S AQUARIUM OF CANADA (Yes – sleep with sharks.)
Thompson Toronto
It’s no Pan Am sport (yet), but balance out your urban escape with stand-up
paddling anyway. Slip on your swimwear for a dip in Lake Ontario. Dine on
deliciously famous fish ‘n’ chips while listening to live music at Murphy’s
Law Irish Pub. Then lick the coolest ice cream at Ed’s Real Scoop. (Yum!)
EdgeWalk, CN Tower. Photo: Canadian Tourism Commission
Canada’s biggest city packs in non-stop, heart-pounding excitement for the whole
family. Climb, dine, shop, then flop! This is your T-dot top 10. (In no particular order.)
2THE DRAKE HOTEL
SUGAR BEACH!
Soak up the sun’s sweetness at Toronto’s whimsical
beach destination.
The Beach
How to execute. See + do the big 10.
1THOMPSON TORONTO
SKY-HIGH DINING
360 The Restaurant at
the CN Tower celebrates
20 award-winning years.
Revolving 351 metres
(1,151 ft.) over Toronto
it features the World’s
Highest Wine Cellar.
WORTH THE SHORT DRIVE
5
8/9
ART GALLERY OF ONTARIO (AGO) &
ROYAL ONTARIO MUSEUM (ROM)
TORONTO ENTERTAINMENT
DISTRICT
CANADA’S WONDERLAND AND
LEGOLAND® DISCOVERY CENTRE
Italian Renaissance art, French
salon paintings, American art –
it’s all on display at the AGO.
Then take the subway to the
ROM to be transported back to
the time of dinosaurs or unwrap
an ancient Egyptian civilization.
Have a ball at a Blue Jays
home game. Learn how to
“Spray it, don’t say it” on a
graffiti tour with Tour Guys.
See what’s on display in the
TIFF Bell Lightbox’s galleries
and theatres, and taste a chef’s
love for local at Luma.
Get your thrill fill with over
200 attractions all in one
park, half an hour from
downtown Toronto. Dive into
Wonderland’s water park,
home to Canada’s largest
wave pool. Block out time
for creative innovation at the
LEGOLAND® Discovery Centre.
Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada
Discover great savings on these
popular attractions and many
more. Get your coupons today
at ontariotravel.net
10
AFRICAN LION SAFARI
Go from the urban jungle to
the wild jungle in one short
drive. See lions, cheetahs,
elephants and more up
close and personal in your
car or the safari bus. Chat
with parrots. Cruise on the
African Queen. And go wild
at Misumu Bay Wet Play.
WAKE UP THE WILD!
Go behind-thescenes at African Lion
Safari for a private
guided tour with a
Game Warden.
Packages
starting at $119
For more details go to
ontariotravel.net
Plan your trip now at ontariotravel.net
5
NIAGARA
It’s about spending time with the people who matter to you. It’s
about relaxing and great experiences. It’s about finding new roads,
new friends and lasting memories. It’s about experiencing all your
Find this
experience on the
Immerse Yourself in
Niagara itinerary on
the Trip Planner at
favourite things to do, close together - in The Great Waterway.
EXPERIENCE HISTORY LIVE THE PAST
Picture your
perfect getaway...
ontariotravel.net
SPLASH & SAVOUR
DISCOVER THE 1000 ISLANDS –
ENJOY A DAY ON THE WATER
4 FOR FOODIES
EATS WITH GREAT VIEWS…
1 WINDOWS BY JAMIE KENNEDY*
2 EDGEWATERS RESTAURANT*
3 TREADWELL FARM-TO-TABLE CUISINE
4 RAINFOREST CAFÉ
Above clockwise L-R: Niagara Falls, Konzelmann Estate Winery and Great Wolf Lodge.
A FOODIE’S PARADISE –
SAVOUR GREAT FOOD AND WINE
*Get the best of both worlds:
Falls and food
Tap into a torrent of excitement in Niagara – at the Falls or through the
region’s vibrant food and wine scene.
CHAMPIONSHIP GOLF PLAY A NEW COURSE DAILY
Montreal
Ottawa
417
CANADA
416
RIDEAU
HERITAGE
ROUTE
CORNWALL
& THE
COUNTIES
1000 ISLANDS
LAND O’LAKES
FRUITFUL VINEYARDS SAMPLE THE WINE
KINGSTON
Toronto
401
Lake Ontario
BAY OF QUINTE
PRINCE
EDWARD
COUNTY
USA
SHAW CLUB
HOTEL & SPA
AND THE
SHAW FESTIVAL
THEATRICAL ESCAPE
Watch the works of
famed playwright
George Bernard
Shaw and his
contemporaries
come to life onstage
at the Shaw Festival.
Packages
starting at $247
For more details go
to ontariotravel.net
SPLASH
SAVOUR
Crank up the water volume of the
world-famous Horseshoe Falls. Go on a
Hornblower Niagara Cruises boat tour
beneath the thundering waters to get
soaked or whirl above the river with a flight
from Niagara Helicopters. “Oooo” and
“ahhh” every evening when the Falls are
illuminated with the colours of the rainbow.
Cuddle up on a horse-drawn carriage
by Sentineal Carriages, then escape to the
rolling hills on a tranquil bicycle tour of
Niagara’s Wine Country, home to more than
80 wineries.
Traverse the gorge’s fearsome Niagara
Whirlpool aboard the Whirlpool Aero Car,
which will celebrate its 100th anniversary
next year. Then tame the Niagara’s Fury
attraction to experience Niagara Falls’
creation 10,000 years ago.
Navigate to the Great Wolf Lodge water
park resort and overflow the family with
hands-on water fun.
RELAXING BEACHES FEEL THE SAND BETWEEN YOUR TOES
KIDS WILL
LOVE IT!
It’s a short drive to Niagara-on-theLake where you can fill your glass at a
Konzelmann Estate Winery picnic, the Peller
Estates Winery Restaurant and the Wine
Country Cooking School at Strewn. Fuse
your drink with music at a Jackson-Triggs
Niagara Estate summer concert.
Keep an eye out for the infamous
bunkers of the Battlefield golf course
at Legends on the Niagara. And enjoy
vinotherapy treatment at the Pillar and
Post’s 100 Fountain Spa.
Plan your trip now at ontariotravel.net
7
OTTAWA
Fun at the Canal
Cycle along the meandering
Rideau Canal and stop at
Dows Lake for an urban kayak
or canoe voyage. Ready for
something completely different?
Set sail on a high-seas voyage
with Pirate Adventures Ottawa.
, 2015
3
1
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ED?
D
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F
BLIND
Choose Owl Rafting
for an adrenaline rush
with the whole family.
It’s included in the
Ottawa itinerary on our
Trip Planner at
ontariotravel.net
Changing of the Guard Ceremony on Parliament Hill. Photo Ottawa Tourism
Capital Charm
Ottawa is Canada’s capital, packed with the finest in culture, cuisine and curiosities.
The Albion Rooms
CULTURE
Watch the Changing of the
Guard on Parliament Hill
and soar to the top of the
Peace Tower for panoramic
views of the city. Emerge
as a connoisseur of culture
after visiting Hintonburg
neighbourhood’s galleries,
theatres and studios. Return
to the ‘Hill’ to witness a
magical sound and light
show that tells Canada’s
multicultural story.
TRY IT AT THE ONTARIO SCIENCE CENTRE!
YOUR CURIOUS BELONGS HERE
Financially Assisted by:
Ottawa River
Media Partner:
CUISINE
TOUR OTTAWA AND THE
RIDEAU CANAL
Explore the nation’s capital
of culture by bicycle.
Packages
starting at $17
For more details go to
ontariotravel.net
CURIOSITIES
Fill up with food worthy of
our nation’s capital. Grab a
pancake-sandwich breakfast
at Flapjack’s Pancake Shack.
Lunch can be tableside or
on-the-go in the ByWard
Market, home to fine dining,
cozy bistros and flavourful
cafés. Dinner always has rave
reviews at The Albion Rooms
or Beckta. Cocktails? Live
music is playing at SOCIAL
Restaurant and Lounge.
Ottawa is a tour de force
when it comes to in-depth
land exploration. Cook up
new ideas on a gourmet
walking tour with C’est Bon
Epicurian Adventures and
clink drinks on a craft beer
tour of local ‘hopspots’ with
the pros at Brew Donkey.
Grab a Canada’s Capital Museums
Passport for great savings.
Museum Mecca
© 2015 & TM Discovery Communications, LLC. All rights reserved. MythBusters: The Explosive Exhibition is organized by EDG GMC-A, Discovery and MSI Chicago. MythBusters Developed and Produced by Beyond Entertainment Limited
1 CANADIAN WAR MUSEUM
Nordstrom Rideau Centre, Photo: Ottawa Business Journal
SHOP ’TIL YOU DROP
Go to Trip Planner and add
Ottawa’s ByWard Market and
Nordstrom to your itinerary –
a fashionista’s hotspots.
Watch performing arts
taking centre stage at
the National Arts Centre.
LITTLE TREASURES
Go ‘hands-on’ at the
Canadian Museum
of History’s Canadian
Children’s Museum.
2CANADA AGRICULTURE AND FOOD MUSEUM
3THE NATIONAL GALLERY OF CANADA
4CANADIAN MUSEUM OF NATURE
5CANADIAN MUSEUM OF HISTORY
Plan your trip now at ontariotravel.net
9
PRINCE
EDWARD
COUNTY
Want more?
The Drake Devonshire Inn
was voted one of
the world’s best new
hotels in 2015 by
Travel + Leisure.
Add one day for Kingston,
a lively city fusing the modern
with historic, only 45 minutes
away from ‘The County’.
> Signature comfort, views of the
fort and rooftop pool. You can
have it all at the Delta Kingston
Waterfront Hotel.
> The Copper Penny Grill’n Home
boasts casual flare in the heart
of Kingston.
UPTIME
World famous Sunset Ceremony at Fort Henry, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
DOWNTIME
48 Hours in the County
Drake Devonshire Inn
Always a great time – Kingston’s historic downtown is a vibrant hub of great
shopping, superb places to stay and a buzzing restaurant and bar scene. It’s a
sophisticated mini getaway and your gateway to the world-famous 1000 Islands.
Start your trip at www.visitkingston.ca
Love the local flavours of Prince Edward County or ‘The County’,
a unique island community.
DAY 1
DAY 2
MORNING
MORNING
> Check into your County-inspired room
at the new Drake Devonshire Inn in
Wellington. Follow the winding roads to
Black River Cheese Company in Milford,
where cheese makers have been working
with local dairy farms for more than
100 years, to taste the sweetness of their
famous maple cheddar.
> Rise and shine with breakfast of
buttermilk pancakes topped with County
berries. Head to Hillier and breathe in the
aroma of Prince Edward County Lavender.
See how European traditions and
innovative winemaking techniques merge
at Closson Chase Vineyards.
AFTERNOON
> Head over to Huff Estates Winery
for a guided tour and outdoor wine
tasting experience. Seek out artistic
excellence at the winery’s Oeno Gallery,
home of contemporary fine art and
sculptures. Pile on the local flavour at
Schroedter’s Farm Market and delve into
your dream dessert at Slickers Ice Cream.
> Follow the shoreline to Waupoos Estates
Winery and savour award-winning Shiraz
paired with lunch at Gazebo Restaurant,
overlooking Lake Ontario. Save room
for the County Cider Company’s variety
of ciders. Browse the antique stores,
galleries and art studios in beautiful
Bloomfield.
EVENING
> Indulge in gourmet, rustic dishes
crafted with local ingredients at Agrarian’s
bistro. Then sip a killer cocktail and listen
to local talent downstairs in the funky
Speakeasy.
> Attention! Parade through
the grounds of the Fort Henry
National Historic Site of Canada,
dine at the fort’s Battery Bistro,
Kingston’s largest waterfront
patio, and stay for the lively
Sunset Ceremonies.
AFTERNOON
1000 Islands
EVENING
> Check in at Lake on the Mountain
Resort and dine in a transformed general
store circa 1796. Tap your toes to live
acoustic music and taste locally brewed
ales at the Acoustic Grill in Picton.
PLAN IT YOUR WAY
Plan your Prince Edward County flavour tour today.
It’s easy. Use the Trip Planner at ontariotravel.net
Beautiful sunset dinner cruise with Kingston 1000 Islands Cruises
> Let the 1000 Islands’ beauty
and culture entertain you on an
expedition with one of many boat
cruises available to you.
1000 ISLANDS CRUISE
& HELICOPTER TOUR
Two days of experiences and
accommodations for two.
Packages
starting at $693
For more details go to
ontariotravel.net
Plan your trip now at ontariotravel.net
11
see your
WORLD
come alive
CIRCUIT
CHAMPLAIN
400th Anniversary of
French Culture in Ontario
French explorer Samuel de Champlain fell in love with
Ontario’s rugged beauty. Little has changed.
THE OTTAWA RIVER
Study artists’ interpretations of
the waters you will traverse at
the Canadian Museum of History
and National Gallery of Canada.
Then get your thrill fill with
RiverRun Rafting. Release your
inner explorer in a woodland
cabin overlooking the river.
1
Discover great savings on
RiverRun Rafting and many
more. Get your coupons today
at ontariotravel.net
THE FRENCH RIVER
This Canadian Heritage River
is brought to life through the
efforts of the French River Visitor
Centre. If fishing is in the cards
for your trip, go fishing with
Hartley Bay Marina and cook up
your catch for dinner.
3
2
GET TO THE POINT
Nepean Point in
Ottawa, to view the
statue of Champlain
commemorating
his exploration in
the 1600s.
visit our website
for special exhibition
information
Georgian Bay
THE MATTAWA RIVER
GEORGIAN BAY
Discover the beauty of Samuel
de Champlain Provincial Park
by foot. Or choose the water
route – join Algonquin North
Wilderness Outfitters for a
one-day guided river paddle,
absorbing the area’s Aboriginal
and fur-trading history along
the way. Regain lost calories
at Voyageur Restaurant at
Le Voyageur Inn in Mattawa.
Follow the water flow to this
picturesque bay, referred to by
Samuel de Champlain as “La
Mer douce”, meaning “the calm
sea”. Head north to explore the
inspiration for many artists:
the white quartzite ridges of
Killarney Provincial Park, or go
south to Sainte-Marie among the
Hurons, a reconstructed French
Jesuit mission near Midland.
FAMILY RAFTING & HERITAGE RIVER TOUR
This is not a float trip – everyone gets a
paddle and everyone gets to participate
in this easy run down the river.
Packages starting at $69 per person
For more details go to ontariotravel.net
Fabuleux français
Walk in the steps of French settlers at historic Cumberland Heritage
Village Museum (Cumberland). Let French culture move your body at
Festival Franco-Ontarien (Ottawa), June 11–13; Franco Fête de Toronto,
July 10–24; and Festival de la Curd (St-Albert), August 12–16.
Celebrate the Father of New France at Rendez-Vous Champlain
(Penetanguishene), July 31 – August 2. Then master French cuisine at
Le Cordon Bleu Ottawa Culinary Arts Institute (Ottawa).
rom.on.ca | rom.on.ca/fr
100 Queen’s Park l Toronto, Canada l Museum or St. George subway stop. Images © ROM.
The ROM is an agency of the Government of Ontario.
4
Festival Franco-Ontarien
Plan your trip now at ontariotravel.net
13
OUTDOORS
WIN YOUR SUITCASE
*
CONTEST
THE BIG 5 OUTSIDE
1
PADDLING
Dip your paddle in Algonquin
Provincial Park with help from
Algonquin Outfitters. Embark on a
sea kayaking adventure along the
greatest Great Lake, with Naturally
Superior Adventures.
Dive headfirst into five of Ontario’s most tranquil and active outdoor
activities. Everything’s more epic in the greatest outdoors.
Below clockwise L-R: Algonquin Provincial Park, Cyprus Lake Campground. Photo: © Parks Canada, Thunder Bay,
Grand River, Blue Mountain Resort
ABORIGINAL
AWAKENING
Soak in the
inspirational
traditions of
Aboriginal culture
with a horsebackriding tour and
overnight teepee
stay with Great
Spirit Circle Trail
on magnificent
Manitoulin Island.
2
CAMPING
Be at one with nature while
backcountry camping and
Aboriginal-pictograph exploring
at Bon Echo Provincial Park.
Not that outdoorsy? Sleep soundly
in a yurt in Bruce Peninsula
National Park of Canada.
3
HIKING
BROWSE. CREATE. ENTER.
This summer use our new Trip Planner tool to customize a curated itinerary or create
an online suitcase that’s all your own and you could WIN* your trip.
The grand prize also includes a travel allowance and the expertise of a concierge who
will assist you in turning your online suitcase into your dream Ontario adventure.
Gaze at the 100-metre (330-foot)deep canyon at Ouimet Canyon
Provincial Park. Catch some
ZZZs in Sleeping Giant Provincial
Park on an overnight hike along
80 kilometres (50 miles) of trails.
ENTER
NOW!
14
MORE THAN $1,600 IN SAVINGS
GET GREAT DEALS ON PACKAGES
•G
et valuable coupons to the best attractions
in Ontario
•O
ver 30 day trips and overnight packages
to choose from
•O
rder or download your Attractions Ontario
Passport today
• Day trips from only $69 per person
Plan your trip now at ontariotravel.net
RAFTING
Soak up family fun on one of
Ontario’s most thrilling rivers with
the Grand River Rafting Company,
just one hour from Toronto.
ontariotravel.net
*No purchase necessary. Contest closes 11:59 PM (EST), August 31, 2015. Contest open to legal residents of Canada and the United States who are at least 21 years of age or older at the time of
entry. One completed trip plan and contest registration will be considered a valid entry. Limit one entry per household. Maximum value of trip components of $4,000 CAD plus $1,000 CAD travel
allowance. Total prize value is $5,000 CAD. See contest rules for full details at ontariotravel.net.
• Overnight packages start at $258 for
a two-night package for a family of four
Save today at ontariotravel.net
4
Reel in fun with the
Ontario Parks Learn
to Fish program.
SLEEP UNDER
THE STARS
Join us after dark
as we take you on
a journey through
the cosmos at
the campground
at Fort William
Historical Park.
Packages
starting at $181
For more details go
to ontariotravel.net
5
ADVENTURE
This experience
is included on the
Epic Parks of Ontario
itinerary on our
Trip Planner at
ontariotravel.net
Go high at the Timber Challenge
High Ropes course at Blue
Mountain Resort and the Treetop
Eco-Adventure Park in Oshawa.
Or go low in the caverns of Scenic
Caves Nature Adventures in the
town of The Blue Mountains.
Cool Stuff in the North
Put on your bravest face (and a swimsuit) for a dip with polar bears at the Cochrane Polar Bear
Habitat. Check out the Lake Superior Coastline doing the Grand Algoma Drive. Then reel in a
mighty muskie before you unwind in your Lake of the Woods lodge.
Plan your trip now at ontariotravel.net
15
BEACHES
TOP BEACHES
ALONG THE
ST. LAWRENCE RIVER
1 MILLE ROCHES BEACH
2 BROWN’S BAY BEACH
3 GLENGARRY BEACH
4 WOODLANDS BEACH
5 FARRAN PARK BEACH
Soak it up on the
Long Sault Parkway
at Mille Roches Beach
and Woodlands Beach.
SANDBANKS PROVINCIAL PARK
Summer is sizzling at Sandbanks Provincial
Park. Pick from three beaches with towering
dunes as your backdrop. Go swimming,
paddling, boating or fishing. And make it an
‘eduvacation’ with natural heritage activities.
Sandbanks Provincial Park
PACK YOUR
BEACH BAGS
Life’s a beach
in Ontario.
Use the Trip Planner at
ontariotravel.net
Wasaga Beach
Agate Beach. Photo: Michele Peterson
Surf. Sand. Sun.
Agate Beach is
‘one of the best natural
beaches in the world’
by The Travel and Escape
Network.
Find your place in the sun at Ontario’s beautiful beaches. Clown around.
Build a masterpiece. Get stoked right now and have a ball this summer!
BLUE YOUR MIND
Ontario is home to
21 Blue Flag
beaches and
marinas that meet
strict international
criteria.
WASAGA BEACH
COBOURG BEACH
GRAND BEND
LION’S HEAD BEACH
Wiggle your toes
into the smooth
sands of the longest
freshwater beach in
the world, boasting
14 kilometres
(9 miles) of spots
to catch some rays
on the shores of
Georgian Bay.
Get creative or leave
it to the pros at the
Sandcastle Festival,
rated one of the
Top 100 Festivals &
Events in Ontario by
Festivals & Events
Ontario. Stay for a
picture-perfect picnic.
Take beach life to the
extreme in The Bend!
Splash around at the
beach, binge-shop
in this outrageous
summer-fun town,
then crash at your
hotel room, all just a
stroll away.
Soak up the sun
in the heart of
the rugged Bruce
Peninsula. Stretch
your legs with a
walk to the marina,
lighthouse and
waterside park.
Plan your trip now at ontariotravel.net
17
FOOD
AND
DRINK
Rhéo Thompson Candies
Colette Grand Café.
Photo: DECK Agency
...
AS SEEN ON TV
The Sovereign Room
gastropub was
featured on
You Gotta Eat Here!
MUSHROOM FORAY
Long Point Eco
Adventures
Experience a
guided mushroom
foray, fine wines
and luxury
accommodations.
Packages
starting at $474
For more details go
to ontariotravel.net
The Sovereign Room
LOCAL TREATS
THAT TRAVEL WELL
1 MAPLE SYRUP
from across Ontario
What’s brewing?
Hop along Ontario’s
Craft Beer Route.
Use the Trip
Planner at
ontariotravel.net
2 BUTTER TARTS
from the Kawarthas Northumberland
Butter Tart Tour and the Wellington
North Butter Tart Trail™
This experience
is included on the
Cruise the Kawarthas
itinerary on our
Trip Planner at
3 ICEWINE
from Niagara Wine Region
ontariotravel.net
4 GOUDA CHEESE
from Thunder Oak Cheese Farm,
Thunder Bay
Jeff Purvey’s Fish and Seafood Family Restaurant
Speechless?
We don’t blame you. Whether it’s your first time or 500th, the power and beauty of Niagara Falls always leaves
you looking for words. Luckily, you’ll have plenty of time to find them exploring Ontario’s Niagara Parks.
From the thundering waters of Journey Behind the Falls and White Water Walk, to the serenity of the
Butterfly Conservatory, Botanical Gardens, and Niagara Glen nature trails. Enjoy our award-winning
golf courses and storied heritage sites in between, and then savour it all with our artisan restaurants,
showcasing the amazing flavours of the Niagara region.
Want to see the Big Picture of Niagara Parks? Start by telling us
your Niagara Parks Story today!
NiagaraParks.com/BigPic
#NiagaraParksBigPic
YOUR CULINARY ‘IT’ LIST
Like food? Love Ontario! Savour creative dishes from world-renowned chefs.
Cozy-up for classic comfort foods. Sample a local brew. Finish with a sweet
dessert. And take one to go.
THE SOVEREIGN ROOM
ABSINTHE CAFÉ
Choose from up to
60 local and regional
brews at Thunder Bay’s
favourite gastropub.
Pair them with the
favourites: stonebaked pizza or pork
belly lettuce wraps.
Taste the flavours
of Eastern Ontario’s
farms through the
many Frenchinfluenced dishes of
this hot new favourite
stop for foodies
in Ottawa.
JEFF PURVEY’S
FISH AND SEAFOOD
FAMILY RESTAURANT
Let the succulent
seafood of this
Peterborough
pillar satisfy your
family’s cravings for
wholesome, fresh food
at great prices, all just
an hour from Toronto.
Kenilworth Country Kitchen Tarts. Photo: Trish Beesley
COLETTE GRAND CAFÉ
Surround yourself
in the lavish decor
of the Thompson
Toronto hotel’s culinary
destination, where
fresh flavours of the
weekday salad bar
satisfy all cravings.
SAVOUR STRATFORD
CHOCOLATE TRAIL
Chocoholics get their
sweet fix on a delicious
six-stop self-guided
tour greeting chocolate
makers and purveyors
of cacao-based
products in Stratford.
Plan your trip now at ontariotravel.net
19
SHOPPING
BOUTIQUE CHIC
Want it. Shop it.
> WEST QUEEN WEST
Urbanize your wardrobe with
a fashion jaunt down Toronto’s
trend-setting neighbourhood,
where modern vintage and classic
chic thrive. Look for one-of-a-kind
goods at the Drake General Store.
The best shopping awaits you right here in Ontario. Scoop up unique
Canadian brands. Score the classic styles that you love.
> BYWARD MARKET
Blue Mountain Village
Spend your day in Ottawa whistling
around four historic blocks of
museums, fashion boutiques,
bookshops and galleries. Energize
at one of 100+ restaurants.
West Queen West
is one of the hippest
neighbourhoods
in the world, according
to Vogue magazine.
FAVE STOPS
> BLUE MOUNTAIN VILLAGE
Enjoy a day of shopping at Blue
Mountain. Stock up on outdoor
gear. Bite a BeaverTail. Paint
pottery. Find something quirky at
the new Go Fish Go.
> THE VILLAGE OF ST. JACOBS
Cozy up with home favourites
at Canada’s largest farmers’
market & flea market, and discover
deals on hot fashions at shopping
outlets.
> THE BEST COUNTRY STORE
Photo: Tourism Toronto
Visiting the Muskoka or Haliburton
regions? Find everything quirky
and practical at Robinson’s
General Store in Dorset, voted
Canada’s Best Country Store.
Buy yourself
some time.
Use the
Trip Planner at
ontariotravel.net
Drake General Store
> TANGER OUTLETS
Canadiana, eh?
Whether you call Canada home or you’re Canadian
at heart, you’ll love Ontario’s wide variety of
authentic Canadian fashions. Capture the essence
of Canadian classic or contemporary comfort
with Hudson’s Bay, Canada Goose, Roots Canada
and Joe Fresh.
LUXURY DEALS
Drive one hour north of Toronto
to Cookstown to scoop up your
favourite brands all in one
convenient location.
> THE OUTLET COLLECTION AT NIAGARA
A TASTE OF ONTARIO
Savour a bounty of
fresh, healthy, local
food at hundreds
of farmers’ markets
across Ontario.
Canada’s largest open-air outlet
shopping centre is in Niagara-onthe-Lake, where you’ll find 100+
brands, all only minutes from
Niagara Falls.
Plan your trip now at ontariotravel.net
21
FESTIVAL
AND
EVENTS
START
CELEBRATING
1 STRATFORD FESTIVAL, Stratford
April 21 – October 18, 2015
2 PRIDE TORONTO, Toronto
June 19–28, 2015
3 SALSA AT BLUE, The Blue Mountains
June 19–21, 2015
4COLLINGWOOD ELVIS FESTIVAL,
Collingwood
July 23–26, 2015
5GRAND RIVER “CHAMPION OF
CHAMPIONS” POW WOW,
Ohsweken
July 24–26, 2015
EPIC IS ON
TORONTO 2015
PAN AM GAMES JULY 10–26, 2015
PARAPAN AM GAMES AUGUST 7–15, 2015
Score the best vacation at the largest multi-sport event ever
held in Canada, where 7,500 athletes from the Americas and
Caribbean will pack Toronto this summer.
6
GLENGARRY HIGHLAND GAMES,
Maxville
July 31 – August 1, 2015
7 THE GREAT CANADIAN KAYAK
CHALLENGE & FESTIVAL, Timmins
Best Fests
Pride Toronto
Time your escape just right and you’ll end up at some of the biggest, coolest
parties in all of Canada. Jump to tunes. Devour tasty foods. Dance to the rhythm.
And party like it’s 2015.
LUMINATO FESTIVAL
June 19–28, 2015
CANADA DAY IN OTTAWA
July 1, 2015
CANADA’S LARGEST RIBFEST
September 3–7, 2015
Excite your creative senses
with live and exclusive
art presentations from
around the world. It’s big. It’s
intense. It’s all over Toronto –
and mostly free.
Salute the foot guards, listen
to the live tunes, watch the
fireworks and feel Canadian
pride – all at Parliament Hill
in our nation’s capital.
Bring your bib – this is going
to be a deliciously messy
weekend in Burlington,
when 150,000 pounds of
ribs will be served by 20
‘Ribber Teams’ from across
North America.
August 28–30, 2015
ONTARIO’S CELEBRATION ZONE
JULY 10 – AUGUST 16
TORONTO’S
HARBOURFRONT CENTRE
For more festivals and events info
go to ontariotravel.net
Visit this “must-see” destination during the
TORONTO 2015 Pan Am/Parapan Am Games.
38 days of the Best of Ontario – lots to do and
see for FREE! Enjoy live music, ziplining, craft
beer and culinary tastings. Discover more at
ontariotravel.net.
The picture-perfect
40th anniversary of the
Toronto International
Film Festival runs
September 10–20, 2015.
OTHER CELEBRATIONS
TORONTO 2015 PAN AM/PARAPAN AM
TORCH RELAYS
Across Ontario
TORONTO2015.org/torch-relay
PANAMANIA, presented by CIBC
Sound Advice
RBC ROYAL BANK BLUESFEST
July 8–19, 2015
FESTIVAL OF THE SOUND
July 18 – August 9, 2015
Rock our nation’s
capital, Ottawa, at this
massive outdoor music
festival featuring your
faves: Kanye West,
The Tragically Hip,
Jason Aldean, Keith
Urban and Iggy Azalea.
Let the sounds of
classical Canadian and
international musicians
satisfy your spirit and
soothe your soul on the
shores of Georgian Bay
in Parry Sound.
DON’T MISS A BEAT
1 NXNE, Toronto
22
Plan your trip now at ontariotravel.net
ABORIGINAL PAVILION
June 17–21, 2015
Fort York National Historic Site
alppavilion.ca
2 MARIPOSA FOLK FESTIVAL, Orillia
July 3–5, 2015
PRIDEHOUSETO
3 BIG MUSIC FEST, Kitchener
July 10–12, 2015
4 BOOTS AND HEARTS, Oro-Medonte
August 6–9, 2015
www.TorontoWide.com
Nathan Phillips Square
CIBC Pan Am Park
The Distillery Historic District
TORONTO2015.org/PANAMANIA
TICKETS ON SALE NOW.
Discover more at ontariotravel.net
The 519 Church Street Community Centre
pridehouseto.ca
FRANCO-FÊTE DE TORONTO
Yonge-Dundas Square
franco-fete.ca
Photo: Vincent Graton
Plan your trip now at ontariotravel.net
23
MARKETPLACE
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Settle in at our campground this summer and join us after dark at the David Thompson
Astronomical Observatory as we take you on a journey through the cosmos. The campground
at Fort William Historical Park is equipped with its own astronomy centre! While you’re here,
enjoy a tour of our historic site, experience our recreational activities, and do much, much
more! Visit www.fwhp.ca to see what’s happening during your planned stay!
Fort William Historical Park
1350 KING ROAD • THUNDER BAY • ONTARIO • CANADA
TO BOOK A CAMPSITE CALL 807-473-2344
Paid for by the Government of Ontario
Our Serviced
Campsites Include:
• 20/30/50 amp hook-ups
and dumping station
• Showers and washrooms
• Gift shop and restaurant
• Free Wi-Fi
• Pets are welcome!
Find hot deals and your free magazine at
resortsofontario.com
Plan your trip now at ontariotravel.net
25
ONE
PLACE
TWO
WAYS
WE TO WEE: THE COAST IS NEAR
Point Pelee, the Lake Erie North Shore and Windsor can be explored with
your friends, as a couple, or you can let your inner child go crazy with the family.
EXPERIENCE IT TWO WAYS
CAESARS WINDSOR
Whether you play baccarat or
blackjack, slots or sports picks,
it’s ‘game on’ at this casino,
where you can also dine,
dance and (eventually) sleep.
ADVENTURE BAY FAMILY WATER PARK
FUN
POINT PELEE NATIONAL PARK
Cycle forested paths to magical
sights surrounding the Marsh
Boardwalk on Point Pelee, one
of the foremost birdwatching
locations in North America.
COLASANTI’S TROPICAL
GARDENS
WILD
PELEE ISLAND WINERY
Follow the region’s wine route
here for a tasting and tour,
learning about the unique climate
and its antique grape press. Make
friends at the garden barbeque.
26
Plan your trip now at ontariotravel.net
Greet hundreds of your favourite
birds and animals, like parrots,
alligators and llamas, in
15 temperature-controlled
greenhouses.
BEACHES
ISLAND
FORK & CORK FESTIVAL
July 3–5
Dine and wine your weekend
in Windsor away, surrounded by
locally sourced fare and the finest
vintages that the coast offers.
Splash down the slides, ride
the river and catch a wave at
Windsor’s new family destination.
Relax? Not for your family –
build sandcastles and make
waves at the Lighthouse Point
beach, stretching from the
shadows of a beautifully restored
1833 lighthouse.
BALLOONAPALOOZA
August 15, 16
FESTS
Expand the fun of your family
vacation with 80 of your favourite
animated characters ‘balloonized’
in downtown Windsor.
CYCLE & SNORE
WINE TRAIL RIDE
Enjoy the flavour of
a guided cycling tour
of the Essex Pelee
Island coast wineries
and stay the night.
Packages
starting at $295
For more details go
to ontariotravel.net
6 MILLION SQUARE FEET OF WATER PER MINUTE
One unforgettable moment.
Whether you’re standing beside it, floating in its mist or hovering above
in a helicopter, Niagara Falls creates memories that last a lifetime. This is
your summer for a bucket list thrill. Now is the time for your first time.
visitniagaracanada.com