hi -- we're driving from the u.s. to toronto next week with 3 kids (4, 9, 12)... i've checked the "family friendly" activities online... any other must-see/do stuff off the beaten path?

also, i think niagara falls would be fun for them but i haven't been there in probably 20 years. seems like there's a lot of overkill on selling the falls... what's actually worth doing there?

we're staying at the delta chelsea in toronto... anyone familiar with parking in the area if you don't want the overpriced valet parking?

finally, we need to stay one night in the chatham area (just too much of a push to get to toronto in a day)... anyone familiar with a decent hotel in that area?

thanks!!!
katy

Niagara Falls is perfect for kids. The Maid of the Mist, journey beneath the falls, butterfly conservatory,etc - and a load of kid-friendly attactions on Clifton Hill.

Many have previously mentioned African Lion Safari which is more-or -less between Toronto and Niagara. Every kid who we've taken there has enjoyed it very much.

Jerry

It's hard to tell you what the "other" activities for kids are if you don't tell us what you have already found.

Take the kids to the fudge store in Niagara on the Lake.

Parking is parking; you can leave the car in a surface lot within a couple of blocks, if you want it out in the open oivernight in downtown Toronto, to save ten bucks and walk back and forth. There's a giant lot across Gerrard Street from the hotel. Rates should be posted clearly outside the lot, so you can compare prices.

BAK

The National Film Board has animation classes that the bigger kids would like. 1 - 3 at the NFB on Saturday and Sunday, for $5 per child. Bring a blank VHS tape to save your children's work.

Centreville on Toronto Island is a great amusement park for the two youngr kids, and the biggest will have fun, too. Get there by ferrty boat, which is fun for kids, too.

Are the kids deeply intrested in anthing? Trains, boats, pictures of animals, dinosaurs, etc.? We might have suggestions based on interests.

thanks for your suggestions so far... they're very helpful... just wondering if you have any thoughts about a place to stay near chatham?

thanks,
katy

Hi Katy
THE place for kids in Chatham was/is the Wheels Inn. http://www.wheelsinn.com/
I have never stayed there but our kids bugged us for years to go! Maybe post another thread about Chatham area hotels?

If you have enough 'oomph' to make it as far as London, Ont, I'd suggest the Quality Suites at the 186A exit off the 401. The hotel is nice and across the road from the White Oaks Mall. If you are interested in a Delta property, the downtown Delta Armories really nice (pool)etc.

this is for jerry who suggested african lion safari -- it sounds like a great idea... something my kids would love... but in a separate posting, somone mentioned they've heard a number of horror stories about the place... your thoughts? thanks!

In case you haven't considered it, The Canadian National Exhibition ("CNE" or better known as "the Ex" www.thhex.com) opened yesterday (aug 18) and runs to Labour Day is North Americas 4th/5th largest annual fair with big midway - separate area for kiddies rides (ie for the 4 year old). People love it or hate it...we love it. SOmething for everyone in the family. See the Super Dogs show. If you are doing rides, buy the all day ride pass as its worth it. Because its a temporary fair, there are no adult/teen roller coasters (or there hasn't been one the last 2-3 years).

You should also check out citypass.com if you want to see most of the "major" Toronto attractions as it gets you in to six attractions for approx half price.

Regarding the African Lion Safari 'horror stories'.......
Some people put the worst possible spin on EVERYTHING.

Of course it is safe. A possibility is a few scratches onn your car from baboon feet. If that is a major issue you can tour the site on one of their vehicles.

Earlier in the day when the animals are more active can be a good time to visit.

Jerry

1. African Lion Safari is TOTALLY safe! Years ago I went there with my son's first grade class in june & it was HOT like Africa!

2. If you are going to be west of Toronto, check out an AMAZING outdoor pool for the kids: Bronte Provincial Park in Oakville- just off QEW at Burloak Exit, 30 min from downtown Toronto. (PS they used to have rules about no food to be brought in-you can sneak a couple of snack in your bag, but no coolers) You can just go for a couple of hours & then leave - lifeguards, and huge shallow area for little one.
http://www.ontarioparks.com/english/bron.html


3. When planning activites in and around Toronto, keep in mind the traffic times. Like all big cities, traffic going into the city is heavy from 630am-9am, and if you are driving away from the city centre, leave no later than 330 pm. Traffic friday evening will be bad both directions.

4. Amusement Park - if you are looking for that, Paramount Canada's Wonderland is great. There is an area for the younger kids - but parents may want to split up for a while - 4 yr old on kiddie rides & older ones on different ones.

BAK is on the money about the parking. You may decide the difference in cost isn't worth it. All the lots will be fairly expensive.

Fun place to eat downtown - Marché Movenpick (pron. marshez). Young & Bay St. It's an experience - fun with kids, and lots of variety. Don't go when you're tired - lots of things to see.
Check out this blog for user reviews:
http://www.virtualtourist.com/travel...npick-R-1.html

Please feel free to ask if you have any other questions.....I lived in Toronto area for 7 years with kids same age as yours.

In regards to a hotel in the Chatham area. Wheels Inn has been recommended by another poster. Living in the area I haven't ever stayed there. I know they ae doing a lot of upgrades to the rooms. Growing up, our kids liked to go there for a day or evening for all the activities. Here is a website with reviews...seems like you either really like it or you don't. I'd try to get a room that has been renovated if possible. Hope this helps you.
http://www.tripadvisor.com/Hotel_Rev...m_Ontario.html