New Things To Do In Ontario This Summer

 
 

July 1, 2011 5:00 AM

McGuinty Government Encourages Families To Try Out New Ontario Attractions

Families can stay and play at home this summer and discover new activities and adventures throughout the province.

Whether you're visiting a park, festival, local event or world-class attraction you'll find lots of great new experiences:

  • Take a downhill ride on Ontario's first mountain coaster at Blue Mountain, a thrill-seeking trip through the Niagara Escarpment's varied terrain and glades.
  • Pitch a tent for the first time as you learn to camp at Ontario Parks.
  • Get on board the improved, state-of-the-art Agawa Canyon Tour Train and enjoy a one-day rail adventure through the Canadian wilderness that starts at Sault Ste. Marie and stops 114 miles north.
  • Hike along the Blue Mountain's Apple Pie Trail to the doorsteps of some of the area's best restaurants, markets, bakeries and farms serving delicious apple-inspired creations.
  • Find your way out of the red horse maze and take a jump on a trampoline bungy, the latest attractions at Horseshoe Adventure Park near Barrie.
  • See what flying squirrels and bats really do at night in the nocturnal room at Sudbury's Science North. 
  • Climb the 90-foot water tower at Calypso Theme Waterpark near Ottawa, the highest free standing waterslide tower in North America with 10 new slides.
  • Explore the outdoor Sculpture Garden at Kleinburg's McMichael Canadian Art Collection, featuring nine twice-life-size bronze sculptures showcasing the creative life of Canadian artist Ivan Eyre.
  • Walk along the ledge of the world's highest full circle hands-free walk, EdgeWalk at the CN Tower.
  • Check out a movie in the new 3D Cinesphere to commemorate the 40th anniversary of Ontario Place.
  • Paddle along the mighty Kaministiquia River by canoe and kayak or explore new hiking trails on the rugged Wilderness Island at Fort William Historical Park in Thunder Bay.

Strengthening tourism is part of the McGuinty government's plan to grow tourism, strengthen economic growth and support jobs in Ontario.

QUICK FACTS

 
  • Ontario welcomes almost 18 million out-of-province visitors annually.
  • Tourism is an important part of Ontario's economy, supporting 300,000 jobs. In 2008, tourism spending in Ontario reached $22 billion.
  • With the new DuPont Provincial Park, there are now 335 provincial parks in Ontario.
  • Charleston Lake and Wasaga Beach Provincial Parks have also been newly expanded to give families and visitors more opportunities to get outdoors and enjoy the province's natural beauty.
  • This summer, more than 1.5 million kids will get free admission to stay and play in Ontario with the 2011 Fun Pass.

CONTACTS

  • Denelle Balfour
    Communications Branch
    416-212-3928
    denelle.balfour@nullontario.ca
  • Jasmine Gill
    Minister's Office
    416-325-1759
    jasmine.gill@nullontario.ca



Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Sport
ontario.ca/mtcs


 
PLAY                             
PLAY

Mobile

 

"Our attractions, parks, festivals and events continue to introduce exciting activities that give families and visitors new reasons and ways to experience our province. Whether it's to celebrate Canada Day or set off on your fiftieth adventure, there is always something more for you to discover in Ontario! "

 – Michael Chan
Minister of Tourism and Culture

"Our parks give newcomers, visitors and Ontarians affordable, fun filled and memorable family experiences this summer. You can fish licence-free from July 2-11 or learn to camp for the first time. There is something for everyone to enjoy with our numerous lakes and great outdoors."

 – Linda Jeffrey
Minister of Natural Resources

 
 
 
 Print this page