The Toronto Zoo is fabulous... but
it’s also a daunting outing for parents of young
children, from both a financial and scale perspective.
More and more, families are looking to local animal
experiences in a smaller environment. Nathalie Prezeau,
author of the popular book Toronto Fun Places
explains: “The bigger the place, the harder it
is for the young ones to actually see the animals, which
can lead to a lot of frustration. The smaller places
tend to be shadier, which is a big plus during the summer.
In addition, in most cases, kids can feed some of the
animals, which is always a big hit.” A cautionary
note, make sure your children wash their hands after
feeding or petting any animals. Lucky for us, living
in the GTA, there is a wide selection of smaller zoos
to get kids roaring for more.
Bowmanville Zoo: Canada’s oldest
private zoo was established in 1919. While known for
its children’s zoo, there is also extra glamour
to be found there, due to a large Hollywood Animal Talent
pool, including Baghera the jaguar from Peter Benchley’s
Amazon, and Billy, the White Benghal tiger
from Animorphs. As well as supplying trained
animals for the television and film industry, the zoo
can provide elephants for traditional Indian weddings.
Darlene Christensen, administrator, is enthusiastic
about the features they have for the younger crowd.
“You can get up close and personal with a lot
of the animals and you can feed the majority of them,
it is much better suited for the younger children.”
She explains why. “You can see the zoo in a couple
of hours, take in one of our live animal shows, ride
an elephant or camel, ride on one of the vintage carnival
rides, eat a picnic lunch under the majestic maples
and play in the playground.” There are 300 animals
on 42 acres. Located in Bowmanville, 905-623-5655 or
visit bowmanvillezoo.com
Oshawa Zoo: The little-known Oshawa
Zoo and Fun Farm has been serving Durham County since
1993. “Our goal was to have a clean, green, interactive
mix of friendly exotic and domestic animals,”
states their website. They are proud of the fact that
their enclosures and paddocks exceed national zoo standards
for size. The zoo includes more than 40 species of birds
and animals, 22 fenced acres with picnic areas, and
exotic animals such as lemurs, macaws, monkeys, and
llamas. The zoo is also known for its great success
in saving orphaned baby animals. The Oshawa Zoo is located
in Oshawa; 905-655-5236 or visit oshawazoo.ca
Northwood Sanctuary: This small but
intriguing zoo features lions and tigers. Separated
only by fence and wires, kids have an opportunity to
see these magnificent cats up close. This might be better
saved for children five and older who understand how
frightening a lion might be. However, there are also
monkeys, wolves, elk, eagles, and more, including an
impressive buffalo den. All in all, more than 100 exotic
animals to take in. The Sanctuary also provides humane
capture and relocation of unwanted wildlife. Northwood
is located in Seagrave, north of Port Perry; 905-985-2738,
northwoodranch.com
Elmvale Jungle Zoo: More than 300
animals call this zoo home. The lemur, tigers, snakes
and other animals who live here are zoo-raised, having
never known life in the wild. “I really enjoyed
the design of this small zoo,” says Prezeau, “Trees
everywhere make it the perfect place to hang out on
a very hot day. Some cages are very nicely set along
shaded trails in the woods.” The park encompasses
25 acres, expanded from the original two acres it had
when it was established in 1967. There are live animal
acts and the kids can even touch a python. Throw in
their snack bar and a playground and the kids will want
to stay all day. 705-322-1112, or visit elmvalejunglezoo.com
Riverview Park & Zoo: The most
astounding feature of this zoo gem is that it is free.
Located on the banks of the Otanabee River, in Peterborough,
it has been declared one of the two most ethical zoos
in Canada by Zoocheck (zoocheck.com).
Jack Sisson, curator of the zoo, says, “What makes
Riverview special is its history, funding, public participation,
and public ownership. Riverview Park & Zoo was founded
by Mr. R. Dobbin, who was the G.M. of the Peterborough
Utilities Commission in the 1930’s. He was given
two alligators on completion of his term at an annual
conference in Florida. That was the start of our zoo.”
The Utilities Commission can use up to nine percent
of the water revenue from the city to operate Riverview.
The zoo now includes 27 exhibits with 40 species. Jennifer
Beechie, Peterborough resident and frequent visitor
with her daughter Alex, 11 months, is one of approximately
a quarter of a million visitors annually. Her daughter
spent 20 minutes watching the wild turkeys strutting
at the front. “There were many other families
and strollers there and there was lots of room for everyone.”
I visited the zoo myself a few years ago, and returned
recently with my children aged 13, eight and five. They
loved it – particularly the 80 foot superslide.
705-748-9300, ext 2304, or visit puc.org
African Lion Safari: Although more
expensive than the Toronto Zoo, it’s still a perennial
favourite amongst Southern Ontarians. Lori Latter, Marketing
Manager, is excited about what they offer in this unique
setting. “African Lion Safari is a drive through
wildlife park, where the visitor remains ‘caged’
in their vehicle and the animals roam free in large
Game Reserves.” Visitors enjoy a close range view
of lions, cheetah, giraffe, rhino, zebra and more. As
well, you can watch live bird and animal shows and hit
the splash pad. There are also special events such as
witnessing eagles soar overhead at the Birds of Prey
Flying Demonstration, and the spectacular Elephant Round-Up
Performance. African Lion Safari is located in Cambridge
contact them at 519-623-2620 or visit lionsafari.com.
It IS a jungle out there, but in a good and
safe way for both the animals and the kids. Visit torontofunplaces.com
for more information on other animal sanctuaries, zoos,
and general places for prowling around. Just make sure
to take the right monkeys home at the end of the day.
Kathy Buckworth is the author of Journey
to the Darkside: Supermom Goes Home. Visit kathybuckworth.com
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Ice Cream Supreme
Have a refreshing treat at one of Toronto’s
best ice cream shops!
By Jaclyn Newman
• Dutch Dreams: Since: 1985
Never has going for ice cream been such an event! Take
in the sights of the brightly-coloured ceiling to floor
decorations as you relish your treat in this cozy store.
Flavours such as Grape Nuts, a Jamaican favourite, reflect
Toronto’s diversity. 78 Vaughan Road, 416-656-6959.
• Ed’s Real Scoop: Since: 2000
Before strolling on the beach, stop for a homemade treat.
Nothing is more relaxing than the refreshing taste of
French Mint ice cream as you enjoy the sound of lapping
water and the breeze on your skin. 2224 Queen Street
East, 416-699-6100.
• Greg’s Ice Cream: Since 1981
Kids will be all smiles devouring Smartie Pants, the
newest creation. “We deal in happiness,”
says owner Greg Mahon. “Young and old, everyone’s
face lights up.” 750 Spadina Avenue, 416-962-4734.
• Kensington Market Organic Ice Cream:
Since 2004
Let your senses guide you through maze-like streets
and stores selling goods from around the world. Cool
down with an ice cream made from organic cream. The
flavours are unique – rose petal, blueberry-lavender
– and delicious! 650 Queen Street West, 416-835-7781.
• La Paloma Gelateria and Café:
Since 1967
Putting his imagination to use, owner Salvatore Giannone
has created 75 savoury flavours that draw customers
from all over. “Fruit flavours are very popular
– watermelon, banana, strawberry – and children
love bubblegum.” 1357 St. Clair Avenue West, 416-656-2340.
• Summer’s Ice Cream: Since 2006
Nestled amongst upscale boutiques like Dolce and Gabbana,
Summer’s is a sweet retreat. Fill tired tots’
mouths with homemade waffle cones and ice cream and
you can shop in peace! 101 Yorkville Avenue, 416-944-2637.
• Sweet Fantasies: Since 1996
Indulge your sweet tooth with decadent Triple Chocolate
Brownie ice cream while taking in the sights and sounds
of bustling Bloor. Offering non-dairy, organic and 100
percent nut-free choices, this little stand caters to
everyone. 398 Bloor Street West, 416-968-8816.
• Tropical Treets: Since 1994
Treat yourself to something new. Kulfi – Indian
ice cream in flavours such as pistachio and cardamom
– and tropical ice creams are made with all natural
ingredients. Exotic fruit flavours such as mango and
passion fruit will tempt your taste buds. 130 Bermondsey
Road, 416-759-8777.
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