We called on Vaughan residents to step in as your tour guides and share their go-to places and best things to see and do in the city. There were so many that we couldn’t include them all, but here are the top 10 to get you started.
1. Canada’s Wonderland
Canada’s premier amusement park is home to more than 200 attractions, 70 rides including 16 rollercoasters, and Splash Works (a 20-acre water park). Featuring two family-friendly areas, KidZville and Planet Snoopy, kids will enjoy more than 25 rides and attractions. Live shows, special events and street festival entertainment will excite families, food lovers, thrill seekers and guests of all ages, all summer long.
2. Reptilia Zoo
Be amazed and hold some of the largest reptiles at Reptilia Zoo. Reptilia is a state-of-the-art 25,000 square foot facility complete with 53 large reptile exhibits, venomous and non-venomous nurseries and a theatre for live shows.
3. LEGOLAND
Discover what it’s like to get lost among millions of LEGO® bricks at LEGOLAND® Discovery Centre in Vaughan Mills. Imaginations can run rampant with endless possibilities for the creative mind. Not only can you build your wildest dreams, but you can also go on their two rides, check out their 4D Cinema and possibly meet some very important LEGO Stars for awesome photo opportunities!
4. Discover nature throughout Vaughan
Nature enthusiasts will find their paradise at the Kortright Centre for Conservation, the Boyd Conservation Park, Humber Trails and North Maple Regional Park. The City of Vaughan has over 1,160 hectares of parks, as well as several trail systems. The Kortright Centre is Ontario’s premier environmental and renewable energy education and demonstration centre. Hike and explore the trails that wind through the beautiful Humber River valley at Boyd Conservation Area.
5. McMichael Canadian Art Collection
The McMichael, nestled in 100 acres of stunning woodland, is renowned for showcasing 20th-century Canadian art. The gallery features works by Group of Seven, First Nations, Inuit and contemporary Canadian artists as well as special exhibitions. The McMichael is the perfect destination to enjoy an authentic Canadian experience!
6. Hit ‘em long, hit ‘em straight
Go golfing at Eagle’s Nest or Copper Creek. Both Doug Carrick designed courses, Score Golf 2009 voted Eagle’s Nest among the 10 Best Public Courses in Ontario, 3rd in all of Ontario, 1st in the GTA, 2nd in Southern Ontario, and it also won the Toughest Challenge. Copper Creek was recently voted the best public golf course in the GTA and is also currently ranked the 36th best course in Canada. Need we say more?
7. Shop til you drop
Shop at quaint village shops of Kleinburg Village or one at one of Canada’s largest enclosed shopping centres in Canada. Vaughan Mills is a shopping and entertainment destination like no other. As one of the largest enclosed shopping centres in Canada, it features over 250 premium fashion and outlet stores from around the world, with 19 anchor shops including Uniqlo, Nike Factory Store, Nordstrom Rack, Tommy Hilfiger and Kate Spade. Entertainment venues such as LEGOLAND® Discovery Centre and Bass Pro Shops make Vaughan Mills a dynamic destination for all ages.
8. A taste of Italy in Ontario
Giro D’italia Ristorante is a must try. The name literally means “tours of Italy” with a daily menu to explore different cuisines and a monthly regional menu that showcases the tastes of a specific region of Italy. Giro D’italia Ristorante is a place you can go again and again for a new experience every time.
9. Take a winery tour
Visit Magnotta Winery. Magnotta is Ontario’s third largest winery and with over 3,500 awards to-date for product excellence, making it Canada’s most award-winning winery. Magnotta offers an exceptional winery experience with over 180 VQA wines, gourmet food, tours of the winemaking facilities and tasting bars.
10. Let’s spend the night together
Stay the night! Vaughan has a variety of accommodations for anyone looking to take a staycation or safely get away with the family. As voted by those who know Vaughan best, the Novotel Toronto Vaughan and the SpringHill Suites by Marriott Toronto Vaughan were the two top choices for favourite places within the city. Featuring great amenities like pools and fitness centres, and being in the heart of Vaughan make these hotels perfect for when you need time away. The Novotel even has its Trio Restaurant and Bar, with a menu that consists of sophisticated twists on timeless classic comfort food, perfect for any dining situation.
To learn more about the City of Vaughan by visiting: www.vaughan.ca
