Ontario-Travel-Secrets Blog

May 17, Victoria Day Weekend

Thu, 17 May 2012 01:34:57 GMT

Looking for ideas about what to do this Victoria Day Weekend? Check out suggestions under my "see and do" column on the left hand side of this page! Discover some great Ontario attractions, family fun, historic sites, Ontario parks, romantic destinations, and more.

Apr 14, Hamilton Tourism Has a New Home

Sat, 14 Apr 2012 16:24:20 GMT

Hamilton Tourism has moved into its new home in the historic Lister Block on James Street North. This beautifully restored 1924 building sat empty for many years and was finally saved after years of wrangling. The exterior is clad in terracotta and brick. Step inside to see the marble floors in the hallway, handsome antique oak doors, fancy plasterwork and more.

Apr 13, African Lion Safari opens May 5

Fri, 13 Apr 2012 01:50:18 GMT

Only a few weeks until the African Lion Safari in Cambridge opens. Ontario's own! Read my 2-page detailed review with photos here: African Lion Safari Ontario

Apr 6, Maple Syrup Festivals on Now in Ontario!

Fri, 06 Apr 2012 03:00:36 GMT

Have you ever tasted real Canadian Maple Syrup? Try some and see how it's made at a local Maple Syrup Festival: Canadian Maple Syrup

Apr 6, Ottawa Tulip Festival

Fri, 06 Apr 2012 02:54:08 GMT

May is tulip time in Ottawa. If you've never been, you have to check out the Tulip Fest sometime! Read more about it here: Ottawa Tulip Festival.

Mar 21, Montgomerys Inn, Toronto, a Detailed Review

Wed, 21 Mar 2012 00:32:15 GMT

Montgomerys Inn in the west end of Toronto is many things: a living history museum, a community centre with teas, concerts and art exhibitions, and a great tourist attraction.

Feb 28, Ontario Festivals and Events: Come party in the streets!

Tue, 28 Feb 2012 00:26:45 GMT

Does Ontario know how to party? YES! Ontario festivals and events offer something for everyone, from Caribana, to the Toronto International Film Festival, to the Niagara Wine Festival and more.

Feb 28, Got the Shopping Itch?

Tue, 28 Feb 2012 00:13:46 GMT

Need some fresh ideas for your next shopping trip? Here you go: Ontario Shopping

Feb 19, Brick Two-Seater Outhouse

Sun, 19 Feb 2012 17:46:42 GMT

Where in Ontario can you find a brick two-seater outhouse? Hint: it's near Kitchener: Brick Two-seater outhouse

Feb 19, Paul Kane Paintings at the ROM

Sun, 19 Feb 2012 03:00:01 GMT

Some of my favourite artifacts at the Royal Ontario Museum in Toronto are the Paul Kane paintings. You'll find these in the Daphne Cockwell Gallery of Canada: First Peoples section. Kane was a 19th century Toronto painter who made a two-year road trip out west at a time when journeying across the land meant the kind of effort you'd need today to get to the moon. Kane went by horseback, canoe, snowshoe and foot, mostly in the company of fur traders and Aboriginal guides. He nearly died several times (once barely escaping getting gored by a buffalo, others times almost succumbing to starvation). These paintings are based on sketches that he brought back from that epic journey. A must-see when you go to the Royal Ontario Museum.

Feb 14, Glen Williams Delights

Tue, 14 Feb 2012 02:15:43 GMT

Looking for a romantic and artsy getaway this weekend? Have you tried Glen Williams? This hidden treasure, a short drive from Toronto, is THE place to find wonderful artists studios and rural beauty. They have a special exhibit on now for sculpture-lovers: the artistry of Joe Coutts, whose work was showcased at international G8 summit. Amazing stuff! For more about the village see my story: Glen Williams.

Feb 11, Black History Month

Sat, 11 Feb 2012 17:51:45 GMT

February is Black History Month! You can check out the special events in honour of the celebration at three history museums in Toronto: Mackenzie House, Fort York and Montgomery's Inn. The Royal Ontario Museum (also in Toronto) presents African and Caribbean Cultural Heritage Day on Saturday February 25, 2012 with live music, dancing, and kids’ activities. In Milton, the Halton Museum presents a one-woman theatrical show about Harriet Tubman.

Feb 11, Great New Exhibit at Art Gallery of Hamilton

Sat, 11 Feb 2012 01:10:57 GMT

William Kurelek: The Messenger is on now at the Art Gallery of Hamilton. Kurelek is a Canadian icon. Famous for his paintings of childhood and the Canadian prairies, Kurelek had another side to him as well. This exhibit shows some of his works exploring his dark obsession about the end of the world. I attended the opening of this exhibit at the end of January. The museum was packed! More than 2,000 visitors were there that day. The exhibit is co-curated by the Winnipeg Art Gallery, the Art Gallery of Hamilton and the Victoria Art Gallery. It features 85 paintings. The Art Gallery of Hamilton is just one of many great museums in the city. Find out more about the others here: Hamilton Museums.

Feb 10, Last-Minute Valentines Day Ideas

Fri, 10 Feb 2012 00:41:56 GMT

Roy Thomson Hall; Photo Credit: Toronto Convention & Visitors Association

Ooops... it's almost here. The big day! Valentines. And you forgot to make plans? No problem. Find some ideas in this story about Toronto entertainment options! Toronto Entertainment

Feb 9, Escape to the Tropics without Leaving Ontario

Thu, 09 Feb 2012 01:28:32 GMT

Can't afford to escape to the tropics this winter? How about flying south to the tropical paradise known as Bird Kingdom? This wonderful land of cuckoos and palm trees is located in Niagara Falls Ontario. For more info: Bird Kingdom

Feb 8, Cure for the Antique Bug

Wed, 08 Feb 2012 03:56:18 GMT

Got that antique roadshow bug? Here are the best places to go antiquing in Ontario: Antiques

Feb 7, Does Ontario have an anthem?

Tue, 07 Feb 2012 03:57:20 GMT

Yes it does! at least an unofficial one! And here are the words... A Place to Stand

Feb 6, Family Day Ideas

Mon, 06 Feb 2012 02:20:29 GMT

Looking for things to do with the kids on Family Day weekend in February? I've got some ideas for animal lovers, arts lovers, your budding scientists and archeologists! Check here: Family Fun

Dec 28, Distillery District Toronto. Hype or reality?

Wed, 28 Dec 2011 21:08:52 GMT

Distillery District Toronto. Does it live up to the hype? Toronto Distillery District has attracted an enormous amount of press in recent years…

Dec 12, Chinatown Toronto. Detailed review with photos & shopping tips..

Mon, 12 Dec 2011 03:20:42 GMT

Discover Chinatown Toronto, a bustling downtown Toronto neighbourhood with much to attract the traveller, bargain shopper, foodie, heritage fan and art lover.

Dec 3, Aboriginal Art Galleries in Ontario

Sat, 03 Dec 2011 01:21:24 GMT

Aboriginal Art Galleries in Ontario offer work by Inuit artists and First Nations Artists. Discover some of the finest art galleries in Ontario.

Nov 29, Niagara Parks Botanical Gardens. Detailed review with photos.

Tue, 29 Nov 2011 03:12:45 GMT

Niagara Parks Botanical Gardens with acres of exotic plants is one of the hidden jewels of Niagara Falls.

Nov 26, Port Dover Ontario Tourist Attractions

Sat, 26 Nov 2011 00:44:59 GMT

Port Dover Ontario. Come for the beach, the pier, PD 13, live theatre, history and more.

Nov 25, Ontario Culture: Fine Art, Craft Studios, Live Performances & History Museums

Fri, 25 Nov 2011 02:10:49 GMT

If you enjoy the arts, you’ll LOVE exploring Ontario culture. My best tips for culture-vultures!

Nov 22, Fort York Toronto. Detailed review with photos.

Tue, 22 Nov 2011 01:39:32 GMT

Fort York Toronto, Where The City Began. Historic fort displays Ontario history during the War of 1812. Military demos, guided tours, artefacts, and more.

Nov 8, Christmas in Canada

Tue, 08 Nov 2011 03:09:53 GMT

Are you planning to spend Christmas in Canada? Want to see the most spectular Christmas lights? The most glittering Christmas tree? Or how about experiencing an old-fashioned Christmas? Here are some tips to make the most of your holiday! Christmas in Canada.

Oct 14, Video about Black Creek Pioneer Village

Fri, 14 Oct 2011 02:36:03 GMT

I just found another great Ontario travel video, this one showing Black Creek Pioneer Village. Find it here at the bottom of the first of my two pages about Black Creek Village Toronto.

Oct 8, Oktoberfest Kitchener

Sat, 08 Oct 2011 20:05:07 GMT

What is Oktoberfest? Kitchener Ontario has the second-largest Bavarian festival in the world. This multi-faceted community fair features traditional German food, beer, music, dancing, singing contests, midways, barrel races, a parade & LOTS more. Learn more here: Oktoberfest Kitchener

Oct 8, BOO! Halloween Festivals in Ontario

Sat, 08 Oct 2011 01:24:24 GMT

Celebrate Halloween at these great Ontario attractions: Halloween Howl at the Toronto Zoo
Ghost Tour at Fort George in Niagara on the Lake
Murder at Twilight at Casa Loma
Haunted Village Hayrides at Fanshawe Pioneer Village near London Ontario

Oct 1, Old Fort Erie Ontario. A detailed review.

Sat, 01 Oct 2011 01:42:31 GMT

Old Fort Erie Ontario during the War of 1812 was a blood-soaked battlefield. Today it is a living istory museum with costumed guides. Review of the tour, buildings, exhibition centre, dining, shopping

Sep 19, Back Eddies. Cafe review.

Mon, 19 Sep 2011 00:22:54 GMT

Back Eddies. A unique cafe in Paisley Ontario.

Sep 19, Toronto Tourism Articles

Mon, 19 Sep 2011 00:18:50 GMT

Toronto Tourism Articles on Ontario Travel Secrets to help you plan your trip to Toronto.

Sep 19, Niagara Falls in Canada Articles

Mon, 19 Sep 2011 00:15:24 GMT

Niagara Falls in Canada. Articles to help you plan your trip. From Ontario Travel Secrets.

Sep 7, Cheap Road Trips from Toronto

Wed, 07 Sep 2011 00:13:40 GMT

Cheap road trips starting from Toronto are easy with these great itineraries. Check this road trip planning guide for tips on weekend trips to Niagara, Stratford, London, Picton, Hamilton and more.

Sep 4, Ontario Travel Secrets. Toronto, Ottawa, Niagara Falls Canada & more!

Sun, 04 Sep 2011 13:03:13 GMT

An insider's guide to Ontario travel with detailed reviews of hidden treasures and major Ontario attractions. Discover Toronto like a local, Niagara region, Ontario festivals and events, & more.

Aug 25, Island Queen Cruise on Georgian Bay Ontario. A detailed review.

Thu, 25 Aug 2011 01:24:00 GMT

Take the Island Queen Cruise on a journey through the 30000 Islands of the beautiful and spectacular Georgian Bay. Scenes en route, length of tours, special entertainment.

Aug 21, Black Creek Pioneer Village. Detailed review & photos.

Sun, 21 Aug 2011 00:27:59 GMT

Black Creek Pioneer Village near Toronto. Explore 40 authentically restored buildings in a 19th century village. Meet costumed demonstrators. Tips for making the most of your journey.

Aug 21, Black Creek Village. Practical Tips for Visitors.

Sun, 21 Aug 2011 00:23:13 GMT

Black Creek Village Essential Visitor Information. Size of Village, Food, Time Needed, Before You Go, Eating, Shopping, Location and More.

Aug 19, Spadina House Toronto. A Detailed Review and Photographs of the Historic Museum.

Fri, 19 Aug 2011 01:37:50 GMT

Spadina House Toronto is the former home of a powerful Toronto family. The house and its gorgeous gardens are now owned by the City of Toronto, which operates it as a museum.

Aug 14, Ontario Festivals and Events: July to December

Sun, 14 Aug 2011 20:32:03 GMT

Enjoy Ontario Festivals and Events. Niagara Grape and Wine Festival, Pride Festival, Toronto International Film Festival and more

Aug 14, CNE Toronto, Canada's Largest Community Festival. End of Summer Event.

Sun, 14 Aug 2011 20:26:36 GMT

CNE Toronto. Canadian National Exhibition at Exhibition Place Toronto offers Midway rides, exhibits, an Air Show, concerts. Fun for the whole family.

Jul 31, Ottawa Street in Hamilton Now a Destination for Antique Collectors

Sun, 31 Jul 2011 01:47:53 GMT

Ottawa Street North, Hamilton, long known as the best textile shopping district in Ontario, is gaining a reputation for something new.

Jun 30, Drake Hotel Toronto

Thu, 30 Jun 2011 02:05:28 GMT

Drake Hotel Toronto in the West Queen Street West District reflects and feeds its artsy community.

Jun 23, Toronto Movie Theatres

Thu, 23 Jun 2011 05:50:38 GMT

Toronto Movie Theatres. First-run and repertory films. Classics and more.

May 31, Fun Ontario Shopping Daytrips

Tue, 31 May 2011 00:58:07 GMT

Discover Ontario Shopping Daytrips with Your Ontario Travel Secrets Guide. Toronto shopping, Ottawa shopping and more

Mar 27, Kensington Market Toronto

Sun, 27 Mar 2011 15:12:00 GMT

Kensington Market Toronto, with its specialty food stores, vintage clothing stores and laidback restaurants and cafes, makes for a great day trip for the avid shopper and curious cultural explorer

Jan 1, Top Tourist Attractions in Toronto

Sat, 01 Jan 2011 01:58:59 GMT

Top Tourist Attractions in Toronto. What are the Crowd Favourites? Niche Interests? CN Tower, Art Gallery of Ontario, Royal Ontario Museum and more.

Dec 23, Spending Christmas in Canada? How to Have a Jolly Holiday

Thu, 23 Dec 2010 02:13:36 GMT

Spending Christmas in Canada? festive events in Toronto, Ottawa and Niagara Falls

Sep 6, London Ontario Airport. Make a quick getaway with ease.

Mon, 06 Sep 2010 22:26:41 GMT

Use London Ontario Airport for small-airport convenience. Enjoy international flights from Southwestern Ontario. Learn which airlines serve the London International Airport, transportation, amenities.

Sep 4, St Catharines Ontario Attractions

Sat, 04 Sep 2010 02:04:56 GMT

While visiting St Catharines Ontario for the Niagara Wine Festival don't miss Port Dalhousie Ontario, the museum or the art gallery.