Travelling
to Ontario
Travelling to Ontario
Ontario is located in the geographic centre of Canada, and in many
ways it is the political, economic and artistic centre of the country
as well. Numerous attractions draw tourists to this province, whether
they are seeking outdoor recreation, natural phenomena, historical monuments
or modern culture, arts and entertainment.
When to Go
The
best time for travelling to Ontario (and most of Canada) is during the
Spring/Summer/Fall season. July and August are the warmest months in the
province, and unlike in other parts of the country, these summer months
do not experience a lot of rain.
How To Get There
Pearson Airport in Toronto is one of Canada’s major gateways.
Ottawa is home to a smaller airport. Bus and train routes will also take
you to most of the province’s major cities.
Where to Go
Major Attractions:
Toronto,
the capital of Ontario, is the largest city in Canada and the fourth largest
in North America. This city should certainly be a destination when travelling
to Ontario. It is the financial and business centre of the country and
a major focus of Canadian arts. The numerous ethnic communities established
throughout the city give it a distinctive character. Some sites not to
be missed are:
The
CN Tower – At 533 metres, this tower is the highest free-standing
structure in the world. It is the central symbol and landmark of Toronto.
The
Skydome – The home of the Toronto Blue Jays is the world’s
first stadium to be built with a fully retractable roof.
The
Harbourfront – The York and Queen’s Quays are lined with
restaurants, specialty gift shops, theatre performances and cultural events.
Boat tours are also available.
Royal
Ontario Museum – This is Canada’s largest museum
of natural sciences, the animal world, archaeology and art.
Other Toronto attractions
include: Ontario Place,
The Ontario Science Centre,
The Hockey Hall of Fame, Kensington
Market and the Toronto Zoo.
Ottawa is the capital
city of Canada, and appeals to visitors interested in the cultural activities
and museums the city has to offer. Among the major attractions are:
Parliament
Hill – Located in downtown Ottawa, these picturesque buildings
can be admired from the outside, or viewed from within. When parliament
is in session, Question Period in the House of Commons is a popular attraction.
The
National Gallery – This impressive building houses an enormous
collection of North American and European works, both classic and contemporary.
Other notable museums include: Canadian War Museum, The Royal Canadian
Mint, The National Museum of Science and Technology, The Canadian Museum
of Civilization.
Byward
Market – On Saturdays, farmers sell
fresh vegetables, fruits and flowers in this
busy area. The specialty shops with meats, seafood,
baked goods, cheeses and crafts, as well as
the numerous restaurants, are open throughout
the week.
Rideau
Canal – A great skating spot in the winter.
Niagara Falls
This popular honeymoon setting is one of Canada’s top tourist destinations.
The Falls span fifty-six metres of the Niagara River between Ontario and
Upper New York State. They are impressive day and night, all year-round.
Other Highlights when Travelling
to Ontario Include:
- The Niagara Wine district
- Stratford and Shaw Theatre
Festivals
- Oktoberfest in Kitchener
- Canoeing and Hiking in Algonquin
and Killarney Provincial Parks
- Downhill Skiing in Collingwood
- Cross-Country Skiing in
the Gatineau Hills
Travel Insurance
Choose a travel health insurance plan to cover the costs of unforeseen
health needs, emergencies or accidents while in Canada. Click here for
a list of frequently asked questions about travel
health insurance.
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