gifts that keep on giving
Filed Under Stuff, Tips & Tricks | December 7, 2010
In a season overwhelmed by gift giving, you may be searching for ideas for year-round fun that doesn’t end when batteries run out, or boredom sets in. Because we believe the season could do with fewer batteries and less waste, here’s our list of local gifts that give long after the holiday season ends:
Culture & Science
The Royal Ontario Museum: Toronto’s own world-renowned museum of natural history and culture has tons to offer families, including the ROMKids programs. Family memberships include two named adults, and up to four kids under the age of 17.
The Art Gallery Of Ontario: The Art Gallery is one of the largest art museums in North America, and has plenty of kid-friendly programming, such as Family Sundays. Family membership includes two named adults and up to five kids, age 17 and under.
Ontario Science Centre: Kids will have a blast exploring their inner scientist! Membership also includes access to KidSpark, the play zone for kids eight and under. Family membership includes two adult or senior cardholders, plus any number of children from the same household (or grandchildren) under the age of 18.
The Canadian AIR & SPACE Museum: The Canadian AIR & SPACE Museum was founded in 1997 and is a year-round attraction. While the Museum prides itself on telling the distinctly Canadian stories of aerospace science and technology, it also tells the stories of the people connected to these innovations. There are fun youth programs, including Astronaut For A Day (ages 10+), and family memberships are available.
Animal Attraction
Toronto Zoo: The Toronto Zoo is home to more than 5,000 animals representing over 500 species, and is spread across 700 acres. Family membership includes two named adults and up to four children living in the same household between the age of four – 15. The Zoo is open year round, except for December 25th.
Active & Seasonal Fun
Centreville Island: Centreville Amusement Park is nestled in over 600 acres of parkland just across the harbour from downtown T.O. With over 30 rides and attractions, and more than 14 food outlets, there’s something for everyone. A Season’s Pass is available and the park is open May – September.
Canada’s Wonderland: With the all new Planet Snoopy and Splash Works, Canada’s Wonderland is the perfect place for families and children. Canada’s Wonderland features 200 attractions and more than 65 rides, and Splash Works, a 20-acre water park. Season pass available. Open May – November.
Ontario Place: Ontario Place is a cultural, leisure and entertainment centre right in the heart of the city, with a large water park, games and attractions, shows, an IMAX theatre, and lots of fun for the whole family! Season Pass available. Open May-October.
Centennial Park & Earl Bales Ski Hills: Toronto Ski & Snowboard programs are a great way for the entire family to stay fit and have fun during the winter. Both centres offer a variety of season passes to suit your lifestyle and family needs. Try a new winter activity or rediscover the adventure in your own backyard. Open December – March.
Toronto Marlies Hockey: Cheer on Toronto’s junior hockey team, The Marlies, and enjoy some family fun with Canada’s favourite sport! Seasons seats available.
Toronto and Region Conservation Parks: With a TRCA Parks family membership you’ll enjoy unlimited general admission to all of the great Conservation areas, including Albion Hills, Boyd, Bruce’s Mills, Petticoat Creek, Heart Lake and Glen Haffy, as well as Black Creek Pioneer Village and Kortright Centre. Stay active and fit as a family!
Theatre For Tots
Solar Stage Children’s Theatre: Solar Stage puts on fun and lively theatrical presentations that cater to their unique audience of very small children, and much bigger adults. The theatre is small and intimate, and seats around 100. They have ticket purchase options that offer multiple performances throughout the year.
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