Bowmanville Zoo. We recently checked this place out and I am really fond of this zoo.  You see, I don’t really like the Toronto Zoo because it is so big, the distances between one animal exhibit to the next is huge if you are with small children, and it is really hard to see the animals.  Bowmanville Zoo is smaller, perfect for seeing animals up close.  They are in your face, can’t miss them!  All of the important ones are there – elephants, tigers, zebras, lions, etc.  Sorry, no aquatic animals.  There are camel  and elephant rides (!) and there is a splash pad (bring your splash pad gear!!!).  You can feed the animals and my kids particularly enjoyed chasing peacocks and holding a wee baby goat.  Get free children’s passes here ($13 saving).  This zoo is perfect for young kids and I think it was worth the drive to Bowmanville.

If your kids are into Pirates, your family might enjoy The Pirate Festival at the Country Heritage Park in Milton.

Go see Snoopy Rocks on Ice in the Wonderland Theatre.  If you want to purchase day passes for less, enter corporate code ROGERS10 and buy the tickets online.

Interactive Family Day Sundays at the High Park Theatre invite parents and children of all ages to explore the magic of theatre together. Go on a backstage tour and take part in games and activities that explore aspects of acting, rhythm, dance, music.Family Day Sundays provide a fun-filled learning experience for the entire family and are free.

—————————————

…and by the way, thanks to all zero of you who wrote in about your favourite lakes in Ontario.

First of all, I have to mention the Attractions Ontario website which has a great selection of coupons for almost every attraction in Ontario (even African Lion Safari!).  Check it out before you head for your weekend excursions.

————————–

On Saturday, July 17th, Parks Canada invites Canadians from all walks of life to come out and explore the best that Canada has to offer. Parks Canada opens its gates and welcome you into all national parks, national historic sites and national marine conservation areas for free!  A list of 125 Ontario Parks experiences can be found here

Salsa On St. Claire – participate in a showcase of Latin life and flavour.

Art In the Park, an annual art show, is taking place at the Markham Museum which offers 25 acres of parkland including an orchard and heritage gardens.  See mills, re-created businesses and family homes. Enjoy a personal tour and then stroll the village. Bring a picnic or pick up food at one of the many local establishments.

Kidsfest on Centre Island - this may be a reason to go…or to stay away because of the crowds.  Your call.

There is also a bizarre public napping event (yes, as in take a NAP) on Queen St. but I don’t think us parents can pull it off.  We would just ruin it for everyone else.

Performed by an all kids cast, the production follows the exciting voyage of Robinson Crusoe to the West Indies to find hidden treasure.  Tickets are $20-26 per adult and $15 per child.  Buy your tickets here and scroll down the page for more info.

Book reservations at a restaurant for Summerlicious, July 9th- 25th.

If your kids (and husband) are into cars, go see the exotic car show in Yorkville on July 10th, 11:30-5pm.  Over 60 Porsches and Ferraris will be showcased.  Yorkville, Bellair and Cumberland Ave. will be closed for traffic.  Ladies, while your husband and kids swoon over cars, you can go to Anthropologie.

If your family wants to try fishing for the first time, this weekend you can do so without a license in Ontario.  Read more info on this website.

If your kids like trains, enjoy the open house at the Richmond Hill Live Steamers…this is a non-profit live-steam club whose members are dedicated to building and operating scale model steam, electric and diesel locomotives.  Yes, people do this for fun.

The Toronto Outdoor Art Exhibition is on (probably more enjoyable with no kids).  Don’t grandma/grandpa want some quality time with yours?  Open Friday-Sunday.

Last but not least, Barney is at Ontario Place this weekend.

Kids Bowl Free is a program offered this summer in Canada and the USA.  A family pass costs $24.95 and allows a family 2 hours of free bowling every day for the entire summer.  Look up a bowling alley near you. Great for rainy days…or a heat wave!

This weekend is dedicated to Ontario parks and historic sites.  I don’t think we appreciate how much Ontario has to offer!  A list of 125 Ontario Parks experiences can be found here. Did you know that Fathom Five National Marine Park (Georgian Bay) has these awesome formations and boasts a rich cultural legacy that includes 22 shipwrecks and several historic lightstations?  Plan your visit.

What more, on Saturday, July 17th, Parks Canada invites Canadians from all walks of life to come out and explore the best that Canada has to offer. Parks Canada opens its gates and welcome you into all national parks, national historic sites and national marine conservation areas for free!

—–

Enjoy the festival at Harbourfront, featuring a mini-kayak obstacle course for kids, hoop workshop, free canoe rides, craft station and red/white hairspray stations (!).

Whittamore’s Farm is open for pick-your-own and the fun farm yard…recently visited by Suri Cruise this past weekend!

Enjoy music and entertainment for all ages at the Markham Village Music Festival.

Black Creek Pioneer Village is having a full-scale reenactment of the Battle of Black Creek.  Watch as 200 soldiers fire their muskets and
demonstrate a full scale battle.  Your kids can even join a mini militia and practice soldier skills.  I am not kidding.

Strawberry picking at Whittamore’s Farm.  Of course.  Share strawberries with friends and neighbours and make something yummy (vanilla yogurt + a blend of strawberries in popsicle molds for a healthy treat?)  after this outing.

Taste of Little Italy Festival…lots of music, outdoor patios, a few bouncy castles and warm weather.  Mamapicks couldn’t ask for more.

Go to a lake!  We like Kelso Lake which isn’t too far away (Halton Region).  *** Mamapicks would love to compile a list of your favourite lakes that are up to an hour away from Toronto.  Please let me know if your family has a favourite.

Bring your kids to  Peter Pan during the Stratford Shakespeare Festival for only $36 all season long (June -October).  Plus, order by July 31 and adults enjoy A-zone seating for only $50 each. They’ll also add in a FREE backstage or warehouse tour!  Call 1.800.567.1600 today and quote promotion code 33544. This special offer is run by Today’s Parent for its readers and expires July 31 – don’t miss out, it sounds like a great family experience.

…or your mom/husband/nanny.  On June 20th, any season pass holder can bring a pal for only $14.99.  Click here to purchase a day-pass.