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Toronto Zoo: Think Twice Before You Go

When the Toronto Zoo opened its gates in 1974, it was a state-of-the-art facility, that left visitors in amazement. Now, after over thirty years of lame expansions, this zoo has really made a non-name for itself. Although, it is the third largest zoo in the world, the atmosphere simply doesn't give you the same feeling as other Torononian attractions.
And there are 5,000 animals to see and the animals are usually impressive, but everything else- the buildings, cages, paths, plants- just seems a bit shoddy and unmaintained.
Another thing is that numerous animals aren't even brought out some days. If you went just for that animal, it gets really annoying when it isn't there. Even if they are all there, you'll have walk quite a while too see a group of animals.
In my mind, I would pay 20 bucks to walk all day.
All in all, I would never recommend spending a day here if you've only got six other ones. Toronto just isn't about zoos. I'd much rather spend some time in the nightlife of urban Toronto.

Back-To-School History Lesson: The Royal Ontario Museum

With a dedication to showcasing world culture and natural history, the Royal Ontario Museum or ROM as most call it, attracts over 1 million visitors each year. Almost all of these people come out throughly impressed by the 6 million items in more than 40 different galleries, many of them featuring interactive activities: The kids will be exhilirated, the moment they step into the darkness of the bat cave, which is surprisingly realistic. The ever-popular CIBC Discovery Area is equipped with a costume area, mock archaeological digs and even a native tipi.
However, if you're not interested in these types of things, I recommend the massive ancient world exhibit full of artifacts including a wall of coins, several sculptures and unbelievable life-sized structure replicas. Don't forget to check out the fossil collections and well-stocked art galleries either; they're both are well-known parts of the museum.
But the one place you must see is the newly built Michael Lee-Chin crystal. This is one of the most unique and intriguing pieces of architecture you will ever have the privelege to see. In my mind, this wonderful design is comparable even to that of the Beijing Olympic venues. Although, it doesn't house many permanent items, you might be lucky enough to catch one of the temporary exhibitions. Generally, they explore contemporary aspects. You will see an amazing 7000 sq. ft. shop, filled with reproductions of ROM objects and ROM branded souvenirs though. And you will see five-star dining with numerous Toronto flavours in the C5 Lounge. And you will see an inviting market-style diner complete with fresh and healthy menu items.
One thing you should keep in mind when you're touring this museum; nature-related things are on the 2nd level, while cultural portions are on every other floor.
If you'd like to visit the Royal Ontario Museum, you can take the TTC Subway towards Downsview station, getting off at Museum Station. If you prefer to drive the address is:

100 Queen’s Park
Toronto, ON
M5S 2C6

So don't worry if your kids miss school; because they won't want to miss the real learning at the ROM.

(416) 586-8000

Where Hockey's Greatest Live: The Hockey Hall of Fame

Any hockey fan will marvel at the vast amount of information, well-stocked merchandise shop, interactive exhibits and innumerable items capturing the the legacies of hockey's elite, highlighted by the Stanley Cup itself.
As you walk through the ultimate hockey shrine, you'll be able to see into each individual inductee's unique experiences with a collection of photographs, jerseys pucks and more. As well, each small memento shares a story that is told by intriguing captions.
If you wish, you can stop at the theatre for a short documentary that is guaranteed to leave you awe-struck. But even if you don't catch one of these movies, be sure to enter into a replica Montreal Canadiens dressing room fully equipped with game-used gear.
I wouldn't stop there though; see if you have what it takes to be an NHL star. Try your hand at shooting and goaltending or even just commentating.
Although all of this is incredible, you can't leave the Hall without taking a look at the intricate designs engraved into the Stanley Cup. But don't just look, feel free to stand with it and grasp it like a pro (you might not want to kiss it though). Then, get your picture taken with the most prestigious award in hockey.
With all this it'd be worth your while to go down to the Hockey Hall of Fame. The greats are waiting.

Website:
www.hhof.com

Phone:
(416) 360-7765

Email:
info@hhof.com

Luxury in the Middle of it All: The Fairmont Royal York

When you drive into Downtown, Toronto, you're sure to notice the grand building that is just footsteps away from every major downtown attraction including the Royal Ontario Museum, CN Tower and Toronto Stock Exchange. This building is the Fairmont Royal York. This magnificent hotel combines elegance suitable for royalty, with the exhiliration of such a metropolis right outside your window.
Comfortable, elaborate decor is the theme of each room. The selection of accomodations ranges from the basic 250 sq. ft. room to a lavish 2500 sq. ft. suite; all of them dressed to impress. The list of common amenities is excellent with ironing materials, bathrobes, a mini-bar, a flat-panel television and much more. However, the view will be what's truly amazing: The views of the surrounding suburbs and Lake Ontario will reveal the real beauty of Toronto.
Furthermore, you won't have to leave for fabulous dining with five superior restaurants and four relaxing lounges. The fresh dutch pastries at York's Kitchen are sure to start your day off right. And a tender butter-roasted chicken breast from EPIC will keep your stomach happy throughout the afternoon. For dinner, why not try an 8 oz. filet mignon, prepared right at your table at Benihana. Finally, treat yourself to an award-winning martini, one thing you must try in Toronto.
If you're looking to do business, look no further with one of the seven top meeting venues in Canada, at the Royal York.

Exclusively Canadian: Richtree Market Restaurants

Where can you find succulent seafood, juicy vegetables and gourmet meats all made fresh? Richtree, of course. Since recently starting, this chain has established itself as a top name in delicious and healthy meals.
The moment you walk in, you'll be greeted with a smell of superb cooking. As you walk past the neatly arranged tables, you'll see platters of steak, pizza and pasta being made in this market-style restaurant. And you'll feel your taste buds tingling with delight, wanting to get some of everything- but there's just to much variety.
And while you eat, you'll barely notice all the smiling faces, friendly conversation and Medittaranean ornaments.
If this type of quality appeals to you like it does to me, you'll be glad you made your way down to one of the 6 locations- 5 of them open every day- across the Greater Toronto Area.

The Art Explosion: Scotia Bank Nuit Blanche

For one night only, Toronto won't be overtaken by lights. It won't be overtaken by people. It will be overtaken by art. This night will be October 4, from exactly 6:52 PM to sunrise.
During these 12 short hours, Toronto will showcase the top works of art galleries and museums in 155 distinct locations. After smashing successes in both 2006 and 2007, this free event earned the approval of over 800,000. One of them was Mayor David Miller who proudly announced that there will be another "celebration of creativity, culture and contemporary art."
But chart your path early to make the most of your time touring the streets, enchanted by art. You can choose to walk through one or two of the three "zones" or just view all of them.
If you are interested in viewing all of them, it is best to purchase a TTC day pass for $9.00, allowing you to have unlimited travel. There will also be several bus routes called the "Blue Night" routes that will run.
However, I would recommend sticking to a zone that you are particularly interested in. The themes will help you select:
- Zone A will explore some of Toronto's most famed attractions such as Maple Leaf Gardens and City Hall
- Zone B will be home to many historical landmarks as well as a 19th century feel
- Zone C will be most impressive, with 50 destinations and some astounding special effects
No matter what you do though, you'll be in awe at the incredible displays of true Toronto culture.

For more info, visit the Scotia Bank Nuit Blanche website at www.scotiabanknuitblanche.ca