Combine your spirit of adventure with your thirst for knowledge. Five educational field trips in Ontario that both adults and kids will enjoy.
Now that the weather has finally warmed up, it’s the perfect time to leave the classroom behind for a different kind of learning environment. Field trips energize and engage, expand perspectives, and provide entertainment for students of all ages. Here are five field trip destinations to check out in Ontario.
For multiple day trips, the best course of action is to hire a professional bus company. Choose someone who focuses on charter bus and coach rental in Toronto for a stress-free travel.
Upper Canada Village
Calling all history buffs! At Upper Canada Village you’ll experience what everyday life was like in English speaking Canada in the 1860s. This is an interactive and immersive experience of the past. As you stroll through the scenic grounds you’ll encounter friendly villagers like the school teacher, the cheese-maker, and the blacksmith. You’ll learn about the issues of the day — how families lived, how people got around, and how they earned their livelihoods.
The village comprises of over forty historical buildings that are yours to explore. You can tour a family home, learn how a farm operated, get a lesson at the schoolhouse, and watch fresh bread baking in a red brick oven.
For the full experience, make an appointment in the costume studio, where budding fashionistas can try on a bonnet or a top hat, learn to lace up a petticoat, and tour the town in style. Be sure to save time for a ride on the horse-drawn carriage.
Upper Canada Village is located at 13740 County Road 2 in Morrisburg, Ontario. It’s a one-hour drive from Ottawa.
Parliament Buildings
Parliament Hill is the heart of our democracy. Whether you dream of being our future Prime Minister, want to understand how a bill is passed, or you admire great architecture – a tour of Parliament is a must.
The Centre Block is closed for renovations; however, the West Block has been restored, and you can explore the House of Commons Chamber. There you will gain a better understanding of the work of Members of Parliament. Make sure to look up and marvel at the spectacular glass roof that was installed a few years ago.
One block away is the Senate building, where you will learn about Canada’s Upper Chamber – its history and function. The building itself is beautiful to behold; it was built in 1912 as the capital city’s train station.
In June you can catch the Changing of the Guard, a rare opportunity to see a Canadian tradition rich in pomp and pageantry. The Ceremonial Guard is made of members of the Canadian Armed Forces who perform military drills accompanied by pipers and the regimental band.
Parliament Hill is located on Wellington St. in downtown Ottawa.
The Fort Henry National Historic Site
Strengthen your connection to our nation’s history with a visit to Fort Henry, a UNESCO designated heritage site. It was first constructed by the British military in 1832 to protect Kingston from a possible attack from the Americans.
When you enter, you are stepping into a living museum. The renowned Fort Henry Guard performs military drills and tours, and the visitor’s centre has state of the art interactive exhibits. Those wanting an even more hands-on experience may have the opportunity to fire a Snider Enfield Rifle.
The sheer size of this fortress will impress you with its grandeur! The fort is situated high on a cliff where maritime traffic could be monitored on the St. Lawrence River and Lake Ontario. Take a few moments to enjoy the stunning views.
The Fort Henry National Historic Site is located at 1 Fort Henry Dr in Kingston, Ontario.
Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada
Dive under the sea in the heart of Toronto with a trip to Ripley’s Aquarium. The magic of this underwater kingdom will spark a lifelong interest in conservation and environmental education.
Learn about biodiversity, what makes a healthy ecosystem, and how climate change affects marine life. Take a look at how artists and activists are turning ocean garbage into art with an impact.
The aquarium runs workshops linked to Ontario’s Ministry of Education curriculum suitable for kids in Kindergarten through to Grade 12.
Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada is located at 288 Bremner Blvd in downtown Toronto.
Bird Kingdom, Niagara Falls
Head’s up! At the world’s largest free-flying indoor aviary you’ll encounter hundreds of tropical birds and other animals in their natural habitat.
Wander down a path that takes you through the rain forest and around the back of a 12- metre waterfall into the heart of the jungle. You’ll have the opportunity to learn about different species and the impact of various conservation efforts. Try and spot a cockatoo or a zebra finch while you’re here. You’ll even have a chance to feed the playful lorikeet birds.
For those who delight in creepy crawlies – a visit to the Night Jungle is a must. There you’ll encounter owls, bats and other nocturnal creatures.
Bird Kingdom is located at 5651 River Rd in Niagara Falls, a two-hour drive from Toronto.
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