I badly needed to update my photos of Bowmanville Zoo so last weekend, I decided to do something very daring… I took three teens to the small zoo, with a friend of mine. (Actually, it wasn’t that daring. One of them had expressed the desire to visit a zoo to take animal shots.)
It is worth describing Bowmanville Zoo at this time of the year since it will be open daily throughout September and on weekends until Thanksgiving Weekend (including Thanksgiving Monday).
Perfect stroll in the fall
We all loved it! After an incredibly hot summer, the cooler sun of September was more than welcome and the animals were quite lively.
The site is filled with mature trees so it is always nice to stroll around this zoo. (We saw many three-generation families enjoying the premises.) They provide shadow in the summer and the colours are gorgeous in the fall.
What makes it even better is the catwalk Bowmanville Zoo has added over a little forest near the Animatheatre. It is an upraised boardwalk allowing us to look at two wolves and one lion down below (not in the same pen). Weather allowing, after the shows in the Animatheatre, people can tour the enclosed pens under the catwalk in a bus dressed up as a vintage trolley while a zoo keeper interacts with the animals.
Something fishy!
September is the perfect time to watch salmon swim up the river in the north side of the zoo. We could see (and hear) them from the catwalk. They’re quite big and strong!
Close-up opportunities
One of the reasons it is a great place for young photographers is that we can buy $2 bags of biscuits to feed the animals. They look yummy, in their greasy brown paper bags. (Watch out for your little ones, they probably will be tempted to eat some!)
As soon as the animals see people approaching the fences, they greedily run towards the visitors. (Even at the end of the season, they still haven’t tired of the treats.) All the animals seemed healthy and fit so I’m assuming the biscuits sort of “go through” (if you know what I mean).
The parrots located near the entrance are very colourful and fun to watch. Since they can’t fly, there was no need to put them in a cage, which makes them more interesting to photograph.
Animals, activities and extras
The zoo hosts around 300 animals including: elephant, lions, tapir, all kinds of horned animals, emus, camels, parrots and monkeys.
Activities offered daily during the summer, are still on on the weekends during the fall, such as the shows in the Animatheatre (look for the show schedule at the entrance). They last longer in the summer but we could still enjoy a half-hour performance involving a lemur, a miniature horse and a humongous Asian elephant.
There’s a carrousel and two other little kiddie rides in the Funland by the entrance (staff members operate them one at a time). In the summer, kids can enjoy a large splash pad conveniently equipped with a line of benches for the parents and enjoy more animal encounters.
All these activities are included with the admission. You can pay $6 extra for a ride on the elephant or on a camel near the camel enclosure.
IMPORTANT TIPS:
• Their end-of-the-season admission fees don’t show on their website. It is now $17/adults and $12/children (tax included).
• Go to their website to print a couponfor a free kid admission with a paying adult.
• There’s a Wimpy’s Diner less than one km west of Bowmanville Zooat 219 King Street East in Bowmanville.
•To get to the zoo, take exit 432 off Hwy 401to Liberty Street, then turn right on King East. The zoo will be on your left.
Nathalie Prezeau has played the tourist in and around the city since she moved to Toronto from Montreal 20 years ago. She’s the author of Toronto Fun Places… for families, 5th ed. and the blog Toronto Fun Places. Her new guide, Toronto Urban Strolls… for girlfriends (1) made the Globe & Mail’s bestsellers list this summer. Both guides are sold in major bookstores and on torontofunplaces.com
Visit PeachyBuy.com, Canada’s deal of the day website for moms to get your $10 All-Day Ride passes for Spring Fling at the Rogers Centre this March Break. (Offer available until Thursday, March 8, very limited quantities, some restrictions apply)
40% SAVINGS on Tickets to Disney On Ice presents Dare to Dream on PeachyBuy.com - THIS WEEK ONLY! PeachyBuy.com, Canada’s deal of the day website especially for moms, is thrilled to present an incredible, exclusive offer on tickets to the fabulous Disney On Ice presents Dare to Dream at the Rogers Centre from March 14 to 18!
THIS WEEK ONLY on PeachyBuy.com, get four tickets to any performance of Disney On Ice presents Dare to Dream for only $94. You may buy more than 4 tickets if you like. The regular value of these tickets is $156. That’s a savings of 40%! (Please note, applicable service fees will still apply).
Please visit www.peachybuy.com as soon as possible and get your tickets as seats are selling quickly and this offer is only available until Monday February 20th! Please make your ticket purchase early to ensure seating availability at this Peachy Price!
Join a celebration of royal proportions when Rapunzel, Tiana and Cinderella star in Disney On Ice presents Dare to Dream, an all-new live, production coming to Toronto! Relive memorable moments from Tangled, The Princess and the Frog, and Cinderella as a cast of world-class skaters brings the romance, humour and adventure of the films to life in this contemporary skating spectacular.
PeachyBuy.com is the first group buying website in Canada to directly target the person making the majority of the household purchases; that’s YOU Peachy Mamas! From “mom-time” to “me-time”, we’ve got you covered with exceptional offers, savings and promotions on PeachyBuy.com. Subscribe for free today!(c) PeachyBuy.com 2012
Holiday time is approaching, and we have some fabulous gift ideas and savings to make your preparations easier. Avoid the lines and parking headaches … browse online and shop from the comfort of your computer for everyone on your list.
Eko Bear Sponsored Listing Shop for top eco-friendly toys of 2011 and more all made with your children and the environment in mind! We offer free local pick-up (Kanata, ON) and low flat rate shipping within Canada. Save 10% with discount code KidsCan until Dec 31/11.
Petite Posh Sponsored Listing Spoiling even the smallest member of your family couldn’t get easier when shopping at petiteposh.com. Shop for personalized gifts, big kid toys and everyday essentials Great gifts, warms smiles and big hug! Use coupon code kids at check out for 15% off your entire order (over $30 & valid until Dec 15/11) and don’t forget, free shipping on orders over $99.
Applause! Toy Store Sponsored Listing Applause! Toy Store is a magical place filled with toys, games, puzzles and crafts for kids of all ages. Find award winning toys like the Spooner Boards pictured here, Perplexus and Green Toys. You’ll also find a full range of Play & Hape Wooden Toys, the latest baby gear, and lots fun-filled stocking stuffers! Coupon Code KIDSCANADA for 15% off until Dec 31, 2011
Exceptional Coffee Sponsored Listing: Jump start your Christmas morning this year with better tasting coffee! Planetary Design French Presses leave in the tasty aromatic essential oils unlike your average filtered coffee machine. Pick from a variety of sizes, styles and colours of Planetary Design at the Polka Dot Pond Shop! Offer: Save 15% on all products with code KACHGG15. Expiry: December 31st, 2011
Citrus Silver Sponsored Listing: Citrus Silver designs meaningful jewellery that is stamped with names, words or dates. All of our stamped pieces are sterling silver and made in Canada. Affordable, personal, and beautiful. Order online and we will ship within 1 week.
Name Your Tune Personalized CDs Sponsored Listing Celebrate the special little ones in your life this holiday season with a music collection that celebrates them! Name Your Tune Personalized CDs feature your child’s name throughout their favourite songs including Old MacDonald, If You’re Happy and You Know It and 5 Little Monkeys. Available in 2 Volumes. Coupon Code: KidsAround for $5 off your order of Name Your Tune CDs.
The Clay Room Sponsored Listing Paint a handmade gift while spending quality time with family or friends. Put children’s prints on a piece for a treasured keepsake. WALK-IN CUSTOMERS are welcome. Gift certificates available. Private parties for both adults and kids to celebrate any occasion. Over 300+ items to paint. 279 Danforth Avenue, Toronto.
“Adopt” an Animal from Toronto Zoo Sponsored Listing “Adopt” an animal from Toronto Zoo and give a unique gift. How about a bear for Baby or a penguin for Papa? “Adoption” packages begin at just $25. Our Holiday Special packages feature “Waddles” the plush penguin and a DVD that takes you behind-the-scenes where you’ll meet zoo keepers and amazing animals. Each purchase helps with conservation efforts at Toronto Zoo.
The Second City ’s Miracle on Mercer St. Sponsored Listing The Second City’s Miracle on Mercer St.. Adorable puppets and their funny human friends tell a delightful musical tale that The Toronto Star calls “the best holiday present of all”. Matinee performances until Jan 1. Ages 4+. Tickets $12.
Second City Winter Camps & Intensives Sponsored Listing: Comedy comes in many different packages! Campers learn how to define their own voice and point of view through the exploration of improvisation. Full day camps for grades 5-8, half day intensives for grades 9-12! December 27 -30 and January 2-6.
40% Savings on Tickets to Disney On Ice celebrates 100 Years of Magic onPeachyBuy.com - THIS WEEK ONLY!
PeachyBuy.com, Canada’s deal of the day website especially for moms, is pleased to present an incredible, exclusive offer on tickets to the fabulous Disney On Ice celebrates 100 Years of Magic at the Rogers Centre this holiday season!
THIS WEEK ONLY on PeachyBuy.com, get four tickets to any performance of Disney On Ice celebrates 100 Years of Magic for only $94. You may buy more than 4 tickets if you like. The regular value of these tickets is $156. That’s a savings of 40%! (Please note, applicable service fees will still apply).
Please visit www.peachybuy.com as soon as possible and get your tickets as seats are selling quickly and this offer is only available for a VERY LIMITED TIME!
A century of classic and new Disney stars are taking to the ice to share memories, laughs and excitement in Disney On Ice celebrates 100 Years of Magic. This holiday season, the magnificent celebration is coming to Rogers Centre in Toronto, December 23, 2011-January 1, 2012 for 15 performances.
The captivating production features the largest cast ever of lovable Disney stars on ice - Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, Buzz Lightyear, Woody, Pinocchio, Jiminy Cricket, Stitch, Nemo and the Incredibles - and exciting moments from Disney’s Mulan and The Lion King.
PeachyBuy.com is the first group buying website in Canada to directly target the person making the majority of the household purchases; that’s YOU Peachy Mamas! From “mom-time” to “me-time”, we’ve got you covered with exceptional offers, savings and promotions on PeachyBuy.com. Subscribe for free today!
The summer is quickly approaching, and we are pleased to help you get ready for a memorable season. Browse camp essentials and summer camp ideas, to make sure your family is prepared for a summer full of fun.
Deet-free all natural insect-repellant Sponsored Listing: Get your kids ready for camp with Deet-free insect repellent from DRUIDE. Find eucalyptus-free citronella-based lotion, spray and shampoo/body wash. Don’t forget to check out our new Camping section which also features natural toiletry products, water bottles, daypacks and travel games! Discount: Save 15% until June 30th with code KACCAMP
My Stow-N-Tow Sponsored Listing: Tidy Totes for Tots & Tweens. Fits them to a TEE: T - Tidy & Towable; E - Environmentally Friendly; E - Encourages Independence & Responsibility. Handmade with affection. Colourful & fun you won’t have to ask them twice to “stow it” or “tow it”.
Contact: 613-875-9284, info@mystow-n-tow.com, www.mystow-n-tow.com Sponsored Listing: As Canada’s leading provider of Sports Instruction for Children, our summer camps provide your child with the opportunity to learn the skills associated with our 8 core sports. In addition to multi-sport skills children from 16months-12years will enjoy arts & crafts, story time, music, cooperative games and theme days.
Calgary Girls Choir SINGING IN THE SUMMER Choir Camp Sponsored Listing: For GIRLS in grades 2 to 6 WHO LOVE TO SING! Develop vocal skills, learn Kodály choral techniques, present a fabulous concert and meet new friends. Arts, crafts, folk dancing, games and drama will further enrich and enliven their experience.
Bravo Academy for the Performing Arts Sponsored Listing: SING, ACT, DANCE! Perform in the fabulous musical Willy Wonka Jr. Students will learn and develop music theatre skills and help create set pieces for the final production held at Alumnae Theatre. Bravo Academy specializes in Full and Half Day Music Theatre Camps.
Join Us For Some Creative Fun! Sponsored Listing: Art Glazed Over is excited to announce its 5th yearof summer art! We will be creating with raw clay, painting on bisque, learning the art of glass fusion, and working with a variety of paper/textile crafts. Full Day programs, Preschool Program and Tween Programs are available. No charge before/after camp supervision as for details.
Steeles West Gymnastics Summer Camp Sponsored Listing: Come and learn your cartwheel, handstand and aerial at the Steeles West Gymnastics Summer Camp. Enjoy a jam packed program including gymnastics, trampoline, arts and crafts, special event days, special guests and theme weeks. Customize your camp days (full day, half day and pick the day or full week). You are going to have a blast.
GEORGINA ARTS CENTRE & GALLERY SUMMER CAMPS Sponsored Listing: “Art and Science” Kamp July- 4th -8th $160; “Nautical” Kamp July 12th-14th $100; “Sutton Fair” Kamp July 18th-22nd $160; “KidzArt Parade” Kamp July 25th-29th $160; “GO GREEN! Environmental” Kamp” Aug 8th-12th-$160; “Bugs, BIrds and Belugas” Kamp August 15th-19th $160. “In the Wild” Kamp Aug 23rd- 25th $100.
Please call the Georgina Arts Centre & Gallery for more info at 905-722-9587 or check out our website at www.gacag.com
Davina’s Swim House Sponsored Listing: Davina’s Swim House has locations in the GTA and Vaughan. Low 3:1 ratio. All year round sessions. Red Cross and Lifesaving programs. Ages 6 months plus. Swim lessons for all ages. Warm pools and friendly well trained certified instructors. Now accepting summer and fall registrations.
In celebration of their 40th Anniversary, Ontario Place is offering exciting events and live entertainment all summer long for FREE! Ontario Place will offer free admission to the grounds thanks to CTV, its official television sponsor.
For free, guests can watch a variety of performances on one of the park’s three main stages or one of the season-long shows such as Pipeworks, a new acrobatics show, or returning favourites such as the Extreme Wake Series, Earth Rangers and Treehouse Live! Where you can see friends like Barney, Angelina Ballerina, Thomas and friends and The Big Comfy Couch.
The Wiggles Big Birthday tour is coming and we have been given a presale and promotional code for you for the Toronto and Saskatoon shows … because we know that it’s fun to wiggle.
Below please find a coupon to save $5 off your personalized Name Your Tune Volume 1 or 2 CD at the BabyTime Show, happening from April 15 to 17, 2011 at the International Centre. An online coupon code is provided as well for the same period.
Visit the babytime show from April 15 to 17, to shop, learn and have fun all within one vibrant place celebrating parenthood. Discover new and interesting parenting products, the latest gear, maternity clothing, parenting tools, places to go and services, workshops led by pregnancy and parenting experts, and entertainment for toddlers. International Centre, Hall 5. More details can be found at www.babytimeshows.ca.
WRITTEN BY
Citrus Silver
The Second City’s Miracle on Mercer St.
Get your kids ready for camp with Deet-free insect repellent from DRUIDE. Find eucalyptus-free citronella-based lotion, spray and shampoo/body wash. Don’t forget to check out our new Camping section which also features natural toiletry products, water bottles, daypacks and travel games! Discount: Save 15% until June 30th with code KACCAMP
Tidy Totes for Tots & Tweens. Fits them to a TEE: T - Tidy & Towable; E - Environmentally Friendly; E - Encourages Independence & Responsibility. Handmade with affection. Colourful & fun you won’t have to ask them twice to “stow it” or “tow it”.
As Canada’s leading provider of Sports Instruction for Children, our summer camps provide your child with the opportunity to learn the skills associated with our 8 core sports. In addition to multi-sport skills children from 16months-12years will enjoy arts & crafts, story time, music, cooperative games and theme days.
For GIRLS in grades 2 to 6 WHO LOVE TO SING! Develop vocal skills, learn Kodály choral techniques, present a fabulous concert and meet new friends. Arts, crafts, folk dancing, games and drama will further enrich and enliven their experience.
SING, ACT, DANCE! Perform in the fabulous musical Willy Wonka Jr. Students will learn and develop music theatre skills and help create set pieces for the final production held at Alumnae Theatre. Bravo Academy specializes in Full and Half Day Music Theatre Camps.
Art Glazed Over is excited to announce its 5th yearof summer art! We will be creating with raw clay, painting on bisque, learning the art of glass fusion, and working with a variety of paper/textile crafts. Full Day programs, Preschool Program and Tween Programs are available. No charge before/after camp supervision as for details.
Come and learn your cartwheel, handstand and aerial at the Steeles West Gymnastics Summer Camp. Enjoy a jam packed program including gymnastics, trampoline, arts and crafts, special event days, special guests and theme weeks. Customize your camp days (full day, half day and pick the day or full week). You are going to have a blast.
“Art and Science” Kamp July- 4th -8th $160; “Nautical” Kamp July 12th-14th $100; “Sutton Fair” Kamp July 18th-22nd $160; “KidzArt Parade” Kamp July 25th-29th $160; “GO GREEN! Environmental” Kamp” Aug 8th-12th-$160; “Bugs, BIrds and Belugas” Kamp August 15th-19th $160. “In the Wild” Kamp Aug 23rd- 25th $100.
Davina’s Swim House has locations in the GTA and Vaughan. Low 3:1 ratio. All year round sessions. Red Cross and Lifesaving programs. Ages 6 months plus. Swim lessons for all ages. Warm pools and friendly well trained certified instructors. Now accepting summer and fall registrations.
