CANADA guide
We visited Canada this past Fall and it did not disappoint. After a 12m hour car ride we arrived at the Peace Bridge border. We handed over our children’s birth certificates as well as our passports and within 3 minutes were on our way to our hotel in Niagara Falls.
Yes, it’s true children under 16 years of age only need a birth certificate to cross the border into Canada. If you’re looking to take your first International trip with your child but don’t want to invest in a passport…driving into Canada is an easy choice.
Disclaimer: If you are flying in they will need a passport book or card.
If you don’t live within driving distance, flying into a nearby domestic airport and renting a car is possible too.
Note: If you are traveling without the other parent a notarized consent letter must be provided as well.
First stop, Niagara Falls!
We were able to work with Niagara Falls in booking our Adventure passes. I have linked the information to the passes which gave us admission to five of Niagara Parks’ breathtaking attractions. Our favorite was the Butterfly Conservatory. We also received two consecutive days of WEGO bus transportation and Falls Incline Railway Access, which will take you everywhere you need to go!
Next we drove to Toronto. My biggest mission was to visit as many of the “little” countries and eat my way through each town. Whenever we’re in a big city that has a huge immigration population we try to support those areas. My favorite areas….
Little Italy
Step into a slice of Italy without leaving Toronto. College Street throbs with the aroma of fresh bread and simmering sauces, and pizza just like Napoli. Explore the bustling bakeries, sample homemade pasta at family-run trattorias, and pick up unique souvenirs from quaint Italian shops.
Chinatown
Toronto's Chinatown is more than just a neighborhood; it's a city within a city, with its own rhythm. It's a place where history is at every corner, where cultures blend seamlessly, and where the air is thick with the promise of unexpected delights. So, go hungry, curious, and be ready to be amazed.
Bonus Tip: To fully immerse yourself in the experience, plan your visit during a major Chinese festival, like Lunar New Year or Dragon Boat Festival, when the streets come alive with parades, lion dances, and a festive atmosphere that's truly unforgettable.
Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada
A trip to Ripley's Aquarium of Canada is more than just a fun day out; it's an opportunity to learn about the importance of ocean conservation and the delicate balance of marine ecosystems. Interactive exhibits and informative talks educate kids about the threats facing our oceans and inspire them to become stewards of the environment.
So, if you're planning a family adventure to Toronto, don't miss out on the magic of Ripley's Aquarium. It's an experience that will leave your little explorers wide-eyed with wonder and overflowing with memories that will last a lifetime.
Planning Tips:
Purchase your tickets online in advance to avoid long lines, especially during peak season.
The aquarium is fully wheelchair and stroller accessible.
Allow at least 2-3 hours to explore all the exhibits.
Pack snacks and drinks, as food options inside are limited.
Check the aquarium's website for special events and educational programs.
Consider purchasing a Toronto Pass for discounted entry to many attractions, including Ripley's Aquarium of Canada and the CN Tower, while venturing out to explore the little towns.
