What to do with Children in Tow in Toronto
Lorraine Kimsa Theatre for young people
Canada
Toronto
Toronto is the most populated city in Canada. As the country's economic capital, it is considered a global city and one of the top financial centres in the world. Toronto is one of the most diverse cities in terms of non-native-born residents. This city is dynamic; with constant redevelopment, new skyscrapers springing up and a thoroughly global culture. Toronto is one of the fastest-growing cities in North America, with immigrants pouring in from around the world.
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A CLOSER LOOK
Top places to visit
Royal Ontario Museum
The ROM is Canada's biggest museum, with over six million objects in its collections. This spectacular building was made by renowned architect Daniel Libeskind. Some of their best galleries include the World Culture Gallery, Natural World Gallery, T. T. Tsui Gallery of Chinese Art, the Gallery of Korea, and the Bishop White Gallery of Chinese Temple Art. 6 new galleries have also been added, including the new Gallery of Canada's First Peoples and the A.G. Leventis Foundation Gallery of Ancient Cyprus
Bata Shoe Museum
Anyone with a shoe fetish will love this museum, which showcases the Bata family's 10,000-item collection. From the outside, the museum looks like a quirky shoebox. The main gallery outlines the history of footwear- ‘All about shoes’. The galleries house everything from 17th century French spiked clogs to crush chestnuts, to Elton John’s foot-high platforms. The galleries on the second floor continuously change their exhibits, drawing light on serious topics like the history of foot binding in China.
St. James Cathedral
This spectacular Gothic style cathedral has a rich history dating back to 1803. It has the tallest steeple in Canada and stunning stained glass windows. The High Altar Window, in particular, which resembles Da Vinci’s ‘the Last Supper’ is spectacular. The serenity of this place is very welcome in the bustling Downtown area where it is located. Free concerts are held here every Tuesday at 1 p.m.
CN Tower
This is the tallest freestanding structure in the world. Walking on the glass floors 113 stories above the ground is exhilarating-like walking on air! The sky pod raises you another 33 stories up. Timings: Daily 9AM-11 PM Admission: C$ 21 [Adults] C$ 14 [Children] Address: 301 Front St. W Tel: 416/868-6937 Website: www.cntower.ca
Mt. Pleasant Cemetery
A beautiful and tranquil place shaded by stunning trees, this cemetery is the resting place of many interesting people; Prime Minister William Lyon Mackenzie King, Canada's greatest war hero, Lt. Col. William Barker; to name a few Timings: Daily 8AM-Dusk Admission: Free Address: 375 Mount Pleasant Rd Tel: 416/485-9129 Website: www.mountpleasantgroupofcemeteries.ca
Museum of Contemporary Canadian Art
This museum is playful and interesting. Its growing collection includes talented artists like Stephen Andrews, Genevieve Cadieux, Ivan Eyre, Betty Goodwin, Micah Lexier, Arnaud Maggs, and Roland Poulin. Their temporary exhibits are fascinating such as the one on tattoo art-‘Art for the Human Canvas’. Timings: Tues-Sun 11AM-6 PM Admission: Free Address: 952 Queen St. W Tel: 416/395-7430 Website: www.mocca.toronto.on.ca
Kensington Market
This vivacious district should not be missed. The market sells squid and crabs in pails; chickens, pigeons, bread, cheese, and mangoes from the West Indies; salted fish from Portugal, lace, fabrics, and everything you can think of. Kensinton Avenue is a gem of a place too with a wealth of vintage clothing stores, shops selling knickknacks and a delicious global cheese shop. Timings: Mon-Sat Address: Bounded by Dundas St., Spadina Ave., Baldwin St., and Augusta Ave
Art Gallery of Ontario
The Art Gallery of Ontario houses the works of world famous artists like Pissarro, Monet, Boudin, Sisley, Renoir, Waterhouse and Picasso. Local artists like Tom Thomson, F. H. Varley, and Lawren Harris. As well as modern artists like De Kooning. The Henry Moore Sculpture Centre is another reason to visit here. Timings: Daily 10AM-5:30 PM Admission: C$ 18 [Adults] C$ 10 [Children] Address: 317 Dundas St. W Tel: 416/977-0414 Website: www.ago.net
Distillery District
The distillery district was founded in 1832 and is therefore rich in history. This 45 building complex belonged to Canada’s largest distilling company in Victorian times and includes a wind mill, grain mill and the red-brick mill buildings. The Historic Distillery District holds events all year round- including a blues festival, jazz festival, and an outdoor art exhibition
Muslim travel planner
Full guidePlan a Muslim-friendly trip in Toronto
THE LOCAL TABLE
Halal restaurants in Toronto
Susur
Susur is a jewel; elegant and unpretentious. The menu offers divine fusion cuisine prepared with great care. The menu is constantly updated and the rare venison loin with Gorgonzola-hawberry sauce is highly recommendable. The staff is extremely helpful and efficient.
Bistro 990
Bistro 990 is a favourite with celebrities. The menu proffers hors d'oeuvres, such as octopus and vegetables in citrus marinade. The main dishes are classics like roasted half chicken with garlic mashed potatoes. For dessert, opt for the Pineapple Tarte Tatin which is highly delectable and made fresh daily. The service is attentive and accommodating. Cuisine: French Address: 990 Bay St Tel: (416) 921-9990
Edward Levesque’s Kitchen
This bistro presents elegant and utterly heavenly cuisine and smooth service. The entire menu is divine making it hard to choose from grilled leg of lamb rubbed with cumin and garlic, or an asparagus, chive and lemon risotto with Atlantic salmon. This Kitchen is all the rage at brunch time especially for their frittata made with goat cheese and fresh rosemary.
North 44
This restaurant is highly reputed and does justice to its reputation. The menu is a combination of Mediterranean, American and Asian delicacies. Their creations are sumptuous to look at and to taste; take their roasted Muscovy duck breast with orange-soy marinade and foie gras, their caramelized squash ravioli with black truffle essence. The desserts, such as lemon meringue mille-feuille, are among the finest in Toronto. What really puts North 44 ahead of others is its faultless service.
Perigee
This spectacular restaurant is full of surprises. All you have to do is decide whether you want a five, six or seven course meal. The attentive and well-trained staff then carefully note down your likes and dislikes regarding food to determine how daring your taste buds are. Perigee’s kitchen is situated in the middle of the room so you can watch your delicious masterpieces being made. The finished dish will be a surprise; but definitely a delightful one-creative, well-presented and delectable. Cuisine: Eclectic Address: 55 Mill Street Tel: (416) 364-1397
Kensington Kitchen
This Kitchen is a gem- Serving up big portions at a small cost, appetizing dishes like angel hair pasta with shrimps, mussels in tomato-coriander sauce; saffron paella with chicken and sausage; and Turkish-style braised lamb stuffed with raisins, eggplant, apricots, and figs are all on the menu. Their rooftop patio is a lovely place to eat.
Veni Vidi Vici
This restaurant serves luscious food in a chic setting. The menu is divided into 2; on the Italian side are pasta dishes like linguine with mixed seafood, and risotto with portobello, cremini, and porcini mushrooms. But the Asian/fusion cuisine they offer is sensational: sea bass with fennel and cashews, phyllo-wrapped salmon with basmati rice. Desserts are classics; crème brûlée with fresh berries etc.
The Rivoli
The Rivoli is a lively place offering entertainment while you eat; live music, stand-up comedians and poetry readings. Their food is just as popular- Chicken marinated in jerk spices with sautéed spinach and plantain chips; mussels steamed in green curry with coconut and lime. Spinach-and-pear salads and burgers are also available.
La Palette
This is a terrific French Bistro, comfortable and casual, with efficient service. Their food is classic, from ballantine of chicken stuffed with peppers and rice to lamb chops with a crispy coating of mustard and rosemary. Be sure to try the sumptuous citron tart and dark-chocolate cake.
Senses
Appropriately named; dining here is a treat for the senses. The décor is tranquil, there is soothing background music and the food is just divine. Try their delicious starters; the lobster and scallops covered with Osetra caviar and spicy mayonnaise. For the main-dish, triple-seared beef tenderloin with Stilton-and-miso tart and foie gras sauce is delectable, while the apple crumble with cardamom ice cream is the perfect ending. Service is excellent.
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Where to stay in Toronto
Hilton Toronto
The Hilton is a sophisticated choice. Located centrally in Downtown Toronto this magnificent hotel is tastefully decorated with an extensive use of glass, an illuminated canopy and photographic art. The Hilton boasts capacious and luxurious suites. Certain rooms provide access to a private lounge that serves delectable snacks and breakfast. This hotel has many facilities such as; restaurants, a bar, indoor and outdoor pools, health club, Jacuzzi, sauna, 24 hour room service, massage, babysitting services, laundry, dry-cleaning amenities and a business center. Address: 145 Richmond St. W Tel: (416) 869-3456 Website: www.toronto.hilton.com
Four Seasons Hotel Toronto
The Four Seasons is favored by the glitterati. The hotel is situated in the ritzy Yorkville neighborhood. It reputedly offers superior service and total comfort. The décor is wonderful, with marble floors and striking floral arrangements. While the rooms are not necessarily large, they are beautifully designed and furnished. Corner rooms have delightful balconies overlooking the street. Facilities provided by the Four Seasons are extensive including; 2 restaurants, 2 bars/lounges, ballrooms, indoor/outdoor pool; health club, Jacuzzi, bike rental, concierge, business center, 24 hour room service, massage, babysitting and laundry service/dry cleaning to name a few.
Park Hyatt
Arguably the very best hotel in Toronto, the Park Hyatt has prime location in the superior Yorkville district. The hotel is gorgeous with magnificent fireplaces, an open-air terrace and stunning lobby. The guestrooms are of a generous size and facilities offered include a restaurant, 2 bars, the Stillwater spa, health club, Jacuzzi, sauna, concierge, business center, free high-speed internet, 24 hour room service, laundry and dry-cleaning services. The Couples Sanctuary, featuring a whirlpool tub, fireplace, and side-by-side massage tables make the Park Hyatt the perfect romantic getaway. Address: 4 Avenue Rd Tel: (416) 925-1234 Website: www.parktoronto.hyatt.com
SoHo Metropolitan Hotel
The SoHo Met is a glamorous boutique hotel perfect for business and pleasure. The guestrooms are gorgeously done up in soothing palettes and blond wood. Their aim is to please; drapes can be lowered electronically, another control lowers a privacy screen. The marble bathroom floor heats up at your say. Another control panel lets you specify your wish to be left alone or ask for housekeeping as you want. Other amenities provided are; the delectable restaurant-Senses, a bar, health club, concierge, business center, 24 hour room service, laundry service, dry cleaning and an in-room safe.
The Metropolitan Hotel
The Metropolitan caters to business-oriented clients, offering a lot of of the same features and amenities as its competitors at a comparatively lower price. In addition they offer perks such as complimentary limo service to any downtown address and special packages to the Toronto Symphony Orchestra. Their rooms are generously proportioned with special emphasis on comfort and luxury in the form of Jacuzzis, Dolby Surround Sound televisions, CD players and two-line cordless phones in the executive suites. The Metropolitan also has 2 restaurants offering delicious Cantonese and continental cuisine; a bar, indoor pool, health club, sauna, concierge, 24 hour business center (with PCs and Macs), room service, massage, babysitting, laundry service and dry cleaning.
Courtyard by Marriot Toronto Airport
Located near the Airport, guests of this hotel can enjoy great amenities. There is a swimming pool, fitness center, restaurant, spa and laundry facilities. This hotel also offers meeting rooms and business services as well as a currency exchange and a 24 hour front desk. Their guestrooms are spacious and welcoming providing comforts such as high speed internet, multi feature telephones, cable TV, feather pillows, coffeemakers and room service.
Hotel Victoria
The Victoria, built in 1909 is a jewel from the past, with crown moldings and marble columns. Its facilities are upgraded yearly. This hotel has 56 rooms, and a high level of service and attention is given to guests considering the moderate fee. Rooms are small but agreeable in every sense. Deluxe rooms are bigger and come with coffeemakers and mini fridges. Amenities provided include; the hotel restaurant, access to a nearby health club, babysitting, and laundry service, dry-cleaning and free high speed internet. Address: 56 Yonge Street Tel: (416) 363-1666 Website: www.toronto.com/hotelvictoria
Holiday Inn Toronto Midtown
If you’re looking for a place to stay that has the perfect location, look no further. Affordable and ideally situated, the Holiday Inn Toronto Midtown has small comfortable rooms, adequately furnished with well-lit worktables and free wireless internet. In addition the Holiday Inn boasts a restaurant, coffee shop, health club, room service, laundry/ dry-cleaning facilities as well as babysitting services.
Delta Chelsea
The Delta Chelsea is conveniently located in downtown Toronto. It is the perfect destination for young families as the facilities offered are family-friendly, such as the Corkscrew, a four-story indoor waterslide. Guests enjoy tickets to everything from blockbusters to theatre, concerts, readings etc. The guestrooms are light and cheerful with attached kitchenettes, cable TV, air conditioners, coffeemakers, hairdryers and irons. Facilities provided by the hotel include; 3 restaurants, 3 bars, 2 pools (1 for adults only), health club, Jacuzzi, sauna, children's center, billiards room, concierge, tour desk, business center, salon, babysitting, laundry service and dry cleaning. In addition there is also Deck 27, a lounge with an incredible panoramic view of the city.
The Hilton Garden Inn Toronto Downtown
The Hilton Garden Inn Toronto Downtown is a home away from home. It is situated in the lively entertainment district surrounded by theatres restaurants and attractions.The luxurious guestrooms are aimed at comfort with adjustable beds, high speed internet, LCD television, microwave and coffeemaker. The hotel offers an indoor pool, state-of-the-art fitness centre, spa, business center, meeting rooms, laundry facilities, security, air conditioning, ATM. The staff is multilingual and helpful.
History and today in Toronto
Annual Temperature
a- January: 1. High -1 °C 2. Low - 8 °C; b- February: 1. High 0 °C 2. Low - 8 °C; c- March: 1. High 4 °C 2. Low - 3 °C
Exchange Rate
The currency used in Toronto is the Canadian Dollar (CAD)
Fast Facts
Location:: Toronto is located on the north shore of Lake Ontario, Canada. Area: 630 square kilometres; Dialing code:: +1 Area Code: +416 / 647 / 905 Emergency Numbers: Fire: 911 Police: 911 Ambulance: 911; Population:: 2.48 million Approximately
Public Holidays
- January 1:: New Year's Day; -Third Monday of February:: Family Day; -March/April:: Good Friday
Visa Information
To visit Toronto, you must have at least a six month valid passport. Intended tourists must also be in good health and satisfy an immigration officer that they will leave Canada at the end of their visit, and that they have enough funds for the duration of their stay. The visa may be a single entry Visitor Visa- valid for 6 months only allowing you to visit Canada once. A Multiple Entry Canadian Visitor Visa allows you to enter and depart Canada on many occasions and is valid for up to 6 months. Temporary Resident Visas are also given, depending on your citizenship, a medical examination and a letter of invitation from a Canadian resident must be provided.
When to go
The best time of the year to visit Toronto is between the months of June and September since there are numerous festivals and outdoor summer events taking place at this time. However, July can be hot with temperatures reaching 30 degrees. Early fall, on the other hand, (late September- early October), tends to have gorgeous weather, and the colors outside the city are incredible. Many of the hotels up in forest areas like Muskoka lower their prices to attract guests, so rooms can be cheap. The rest of the year is very cold with snow and low temperatures. Some attractions may be closed during these long winter months.
Toronto’s Residents
There are over 2 million people residing in Toronto, making it the largest city in Canada. Toronto's population is cosmopolitan and international, depicting its importance as a destination for immigrants. Toronto is truly a global city, as about 49% of the population were born outside of Canada. Torontonians ethnicities are diverse; made up of Europeans, South-Asians, Chinese, African-Americans, Filipinios and even Aboriginals. Christianity is the most dominant religion here, followed by Judaism and Islam. While English is the main language, there are over 100 other languages spoken, thus the city’s 911 emergency services are equipped to respond in over 150 languages. Toronto has low crime rates and a clean, green environment. Torontians have high living standards, and a friendly attitude towards diversity, thus Toronto is consistently rated as one of the world's most livable cities.
Toronto History
Toronto’s histoy dates back to 1615, when Etienne Brûlé arrived on a mission for a French explorer, who had already founded a settlement at Québec. This discovered land, became known as Toronto, a name that may have been derived from a Mohawk name for a sacred fallen tree.
Toronto today
Toronto is the most populated city in Canada. As the country's economic capital, it is considered a global city and one of the top financial centres in the world. Toronto is one of the most diverse cities in terms of non-native-born residents. This city is dynamic; with constant redevelopment, new skyscrapers springing up and a thoroughly global culture. Toronto is one of the fastest-growing cities in North America, with immigrants pouring in from around the world.
Useful information
Shopping
Harry Rosen
Harry Rosen is a retail outlet for top menswear brands, including Hugo Boss, Brioni, and Versace. There is also a fine collection of Men’s footwear and a famed ‘Great Wall of Shirts’.
French Country
The French owner fashions a Parisian ambience in this shop, which sells unique objects like painted lampshades, antique silver, framed prints, gourmet delicacies and hand-made soaps.
Birks
This high quality jewelry store offers silver, crystal, china and a variety of superior jewelry, including exquisite pearls and sensational diamond rings. There is even a children's section full of treasures like Royal Doulton Bunnykins china and unusual picture frames. The display of antique estate jewelry is particularly striking.
Indigo Books, Music & More
A brilliant collection of books, magazines, and videotapes are found here. There are tables and chairs for perusal, a cafe, and attentive staff. Especially appealing are the book readings, live performances, seminars and kids events that take place here daily.
Pages Books and Magazines
This shop is famous for its books on the arts, cultural studies, and alternative lifestyles. There's also a huge section dedicated to little-known but deeply interesting books, and an enormous selection of magazines. Best of all, if a book has been banned elsewhere, it will definitely be found here.
Native Stone Art
This shop keeps the masterpieces of Native Indian craftsmen from all over North America. They house high quality Mohawk and Iroquois carvings, Cree moccasins and beautiful Navajo, Zuni, and Hopi jewelry.
The Shoe Company
This shop is a dream come true for those with a foot fetish. Branded shoes from labels like Nine West are marked down to the lowest prices you will find. Men and women’s shoes are available in styles that might not be in for long, but at this price it doesn’t hurt.
Winners
This chain offers everything at great deals-from branded clothing for men, women and children (Tommy Hilfiger/Liz Claiborne etc.) to a constantly changing variety of house wares, cookware, linens, toiletries, and toys.
Rotate This
Down-to-earth and holding great tracks, this music store is perfect. In addition to CDs (new and used), their countertop turntables can be used as listening stations.
Oh Yes, Toronto
This shop stocks every kind of Torontonian souvenir from knickknacks to T-shirts and sweatshirts.
Signature sights in Toronto
Fort York
This is a National Historic site; its military history dating to 1793. The Historic Fort York offers guided tours through soldiers and officers quarters and showcases muskets and other equipment. There are also drill and music demonstrations. The Kids Drill is very popular with children.
Toronto Islands
This is the perfect destination for leisure and fun. Take a ferry to the Islands and enjoy sunbathing, cycling and amusement rides. The Harbour offers breathtaking views of downtown Toronto.
Ontario Place
This summertime amusement park is built on Lake Ontario and offers all kinds of water-fun; huge waterslides, river rides, paddling in pedal boats. It also houses an IMAX theatre.
Casa Loma
A majestic castle dating back to 1911 complete with extravagant suites, secret passages, an 800-foot tunnel, stables and stunning 5-acre gardens.
Festivals and events in Toronto
Winterlicious
This annual event is held at the end of January for duration of 2 weeks. Here numerous fine dining restaurants offer special fixed price menus, allowing visitors to sample their food at a reduced price. This event includes cooking demonstrations and other culinary events held at a variety of locations.
WinterCity Festival
This event is held annually and offers free entertainment and tastes of a variety of cuisines at discounted prices. There are three stages of this 14-day festival - the WOW! Series, the Warm Up Series, and Winterlicious. The WinterCity festival offers something to please every taste.
Canadian International Auto Show
This show, held every February, features official displays by the world’s top automobile manufacturers. Featured are, classic cars, rare cars and race cars of well known brands such as Ferrari, Lamborghini, Aston Martin, Jaguar, Rolls-Royce, Ford, BMW and Mercedes-Benz.
St.Patrick’s Day Parade
Held annually on a Sunday in March, this procession includes pipe and drum bands, Irish dancers and music, floats and a ball.
Canadian Music Week
During the Canadian Music Week, hundreds of artists play at 40 venues around the city over the course of four nights. This event also includes a film festival and other industry events.
Toronto tours and experiences
Hop-On Hop-Off City Tour
These bus tours operate daily, beginning at 10am, and go the city’s main attractions like the Eaton Centre, Casa Loma, the CN Tower and other major sights located in Yorkville, Chinatown and Harbourfront. The tour is over a period of 2 days and it costs C$ 32 for adults and C$ 17 for children. Address: 184 Front St. E Tel: 416/594-3310; Website: www.grayline.ca
Escape Tours: Toronto Tours
This tour sums up everything Toronto has to offer. The first part of this tour includes visits to the downtown area; CN Tower, Skydome, Casa Loma, Harbourfront, Yorkville districts and more. The second part of the tour takes tourists to the beaches and stunning residential areas around Toronto.
ShopDine Tour Toronto
These weekend tours begin at 10 am and end at 4 pm. They cover sightseeing, shopping and dining in Toronto, with a pick and drop service. This tour covers attractions in the noted neighbourhoods of Bloor-Yorkville, Entertainment District, Distillery Historic District, Chinatown and Downtown
Art InSite
Expert art enthusiasts lead these art, design and architecture tours of Toronto, that vary from three hour tours-full day trips to the best studios and commercial art galleries. These tours involve special behind-the scenes meetings with artists as well as granting access to private and corporate collections. You can even custom design your own tour though this can become pricy.
Sights on Bikes Incorporated
This is an awesome guided tour of the Downtown core of Toronto. Take in all of the best tourist attractions the city has to offer while traveling on bicyles. This tour lasts about 4 hours but is surprisingly not that tiring. Cycling through some of the most diverse parts of the heart of Toronto is exhilarating as is meeting other travelers from all over the world.
Toronto masjids and Muslim travel
Madina Masjid
Address: 1015 Danforth Avenue Tel: 416-465-7833
Masjid ut Taqwa Mosque
Address: 14 Ladysmith Avenue Tel: 416-406-6282
Masjid E Noor
Address: 277 Scott Road, York Tel: 416- 658-6667
Bilal Masjid
Address: 3208 Eglinton Ave E Tel: 416-264-0505
Khalid Bin Walid Masjid
Address: 16 Bethridge Rd Tel: 416-745-2888
Baitul Islam Mosque Ahmadiyya Muslim Community
10610 Jane St, Maple, ON, Canada
Transportation
Buses
The city is served by a network of 150 bus routes, many of these form a grid along main streets, and all of them (except for the #99 and #171 routes) connect to one or more subway or RT stations. An overnight bus service called the Blue Night Network runs on most major routes every morning from 1:30 am-5:00 am. Women travelling alone on buses between 9:00pm and 5:00am can use the Request Stop program.
Driving Tips
Tourists driving in Toronto must first acquire a ‘Canadian Nonresident Interprovince Motor Vehicle Liability Insurance Card' or 'Visitor to Canada Insurance'. Car rental agencies in Toronto stipulate that you must be 21 years of age when hiring a car, although for some agencies this is 26 years. In Toronto, cars drive on the right-hand side of the road.
From the airport
From Toronto Pearson International Airport: Buses such as the 192 Airport Rocket, 58A Malton, 300A Bloor-Danforth, 307 Eglinton West provide all-day and overnight bus services between Stations and the Airport. One-way travel times vary from 20-45 minutes
Health and Safety
Health and Safety in Toronto
Do not carry too much cash on you. Toronto like most major metropolises has its share of pickpockets. Obviously this applies only to crowded areas such as subways, buses and renowned tourist attractions.
