A Hidden Gem
Located squarely in the heart of downtown Toronto, the Marriott Eaton Centre Hotel is virtually within walking distance of all of the city’s places to go and things to do. The Marriott Eaton Centre is literally steps away from Canada’s largest shopping mall, and the popular Nathan Philips Square skating rink. With a beautiful view of the Toronto skyline, the hotel comes equipped with an inviting swimming pool and hot tub on the eighteenth floor.
This family friendly and accommodating hotel works hard to earn your business. The Marriott Eaton Centre even provides an optional babysitting service when you and your special loved one decide to step out together for an evening of fine dining and romance. Providing unparalleled hospitality with great comfort, the Marriott Downtown Eaton Centre is reasonably priced and an outstanding value.
Nota Bene
Without question one of Toronto’s premier dining experiences is the latest offering by executive chef David Lee of Nota Bene.
Consistently named one of the city’s finest restaurants, Nota Bene offers a menu that is decidedly Canadian with a contemporary twist. Start your dinner with the delicious Glazed B.C. Black Cod appetizer. Set in a professional yet casual atmosphere, Nota Bene is conveniently located directly across from Toronto’s entertainment district. Top notch service and skillful management ensure you will be more than satisfied with this standout culinary establishment. Make your reservations well ahead of time — it will be worth the wait.
notabenerestaurant.com/welcome/
Entertainment District
Situated adjacent to Nota Bene, on Queen Street West is the popular live jazz club, The Rex. Whether you are a jazz aficionado or just lover of live music, this is a great place to drop in and be wowed. Hanging out and taking in some great jazz at The Rex will not disappoint.
www.therex.ca/
The Second City
Toronto is synonymous with live comedy, and no trip to the city would be complete without experiencing the sketch comedy troupe, The Second City. With notable alumni including John Candy, Steve Carrell, and Tina Fey only to mention a few, you’ll be certain to catch a future star. You might see someone like Inessa Frantowski, who shines brightly in “Dreams Really Do Come True (and other lies)” currently playing to sold out performances.
www.secondcity.com
Steam Whistle Brewery
For a fun and informative digression, visit the Steam Whistle Brewery. After a few samples of Toronto’s finest pilsner, it’s easy to understand why touring the facilities always ranks as one of the top five things to do in the city.
Gain insight into everything you could want to know about the crafting of this superb Canadian beer. Located in the historic John Street Roundhouse, don’t pass on an enjoyable jaunt to their exceptional tap room.
Be sure to bring home one of their classic retro bottle cap openers or any other of their unique keepsakes.
www.steamwhistle.ca
The CN Tower
Dominating the Toronto skyline, and standing over 1800 feet high is the CN Tower. One of the World’s Tallest structures, this hotspot takes a pulse pounding sixty second elevator ride before reaching the observation platform.
Make certain you visit this popular skyscraper on a sunny and clear day for an unequaled panorama of Toronto, Lake Ontario and possibly even Niagara Falls.
360 The Restaurant at the CN Tower
360 The Restaurant revolves around the CN Tower so get there before sunset for a romantic and unforgettable evening of fine dining. You may go for the spectacular vista of Toronto, but the cuisine is actually quite good and the service is beyond compare.
Bruce Bell
For a one of a kind and richly rewarding experience sign up for a historical walking tour with Toronto icon Bruce Bell. You will be treated to behind the scenes, VIP access of St. Lawrence marketplace, St. James Cathedral and the great St. Lawrence Hall. His passion, knowledge and love for Toronto are enlightening as well as infectious.
www.brucebelltours.ca
Arts District
Give your feet a rest by taking a Segway Tour of the Distillery Arts District. Embrace Toronto’s colorful times gone by and what is left of its architectural heritage on an exhilarating two wheeled self-balancing Segway. Certain to bring out the kid in all of us.
www.segwayofontario.com
Museums
Royal Ontario Museum is currently showcasing”Decoding Maya.” Considering all the portents of gloom and doom in 2012, “Decoding Maya” certainly is a timely and fascinating exhibit for the entire family.
http://www.rom.on.ca/
Ontario Science Centre offers an equally impressive interactive exhibit, “Leonardo da Vinci’s Workshop,” which will keep your children’s eyes glued, and off the portable devices — for at least an hour.
And for the sports enthusiast in all of us, located in a recently renovated 1800s Bank of Montreal building, is the Hockey Hall of Fame.
Not too cold
Contrary to the wide spread belief, Toronto’s climate is actually quite mild. The city doesn’t get much snow during winter, has a beautiful spring, a stunning autumn not to mention a warm, and pleasant summer season.. Complete with a thriving financial district as well as an accepting, warm hearted, law-abiding community… Toronto should not be overlooked as one of North America’s premier travel destinations.
For more on multicultural Toronto, go to:
www.seetorontonow.com
Each month, Mark Vanek heads to Charlotte Douglas-International Airport where he flies standby to a destination in the U.S. or abroad.For more, go to: flying-standby.blogspot.com.