Theme parks in Ontario offer a range of exciting activities for families with children and teens. In fact, Ontario has long been known as a winter wonderland but, when the weather finally warms in the spring, residents and visitors alike head to the theme parks for a day of fun in the sun. As part of a Huffington Post Travel series on family-fun parks, here is our guide to all the key information visitors need to know about Ontario's theme parks.
Canada's Wonderland
With over 200 rides and attractions,
in Ontario is the largest theme park in the country. From thrill rides and family rides to live shows and even a water park, Canada's Wonderland has enough activities to fill your whole day.
The Windseeker
The newest ride at Canada's Wonderland is the
. It is a throwback to the swing rides of yesteryear but with a thrilling twist. Once secure in the seemingly innocent swing, riders are slowly lifted over 300 feet in the air and spun around at a 45-degree angle. This ride only accommodates 32 guests at a time, so plan on getting there early to avoid the lines.
Kids' Rides And Live Shows
For the kids crew under 48 inches tall,
and KidZville give little ones the opportunity to have just as much fun as everyone else. With live shows featuring high divers, acrobats, concerts and a million-dollar light show, you may never want to leave.
Dining Options
Canada's Wonderland offers visitors a vast array of
from sit-down to on-the-go including a 50s style diner, stir fry, Japanese cuisine, cafes with adult-friendly fare, sub shops and snacks of all sorts. For an additional $8.99 at the time of admission, you can purchase a pass for an all-you-can-eat picnic buffet in the center courtyard featuring fried chicken, hamburgers, hot dogs, cold salads and unlimited soft drinks.
Safety Record
reports very few incidents at Canada's Wonderland. The most recent was reported in 2003. A woman and two children were riding in Jimmy Neutron's Brainwasher when a support arm failed and they fell five feet. The park released a report stating that the injuries were not serious.
Address: 9740 Jane Street, Maple, Ontario L6A 1S6, CanadaTelephone: 905-832-8131Hours: Mid-May through mid-September, 10 a.m. to 10 p.m., Sunday through Friday. 10 a.m. to 11 p.m. Saturday. October, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m Saturday and Sunday.Price: Ages 3 and up, $44.99; seniors and children ages 3 and up under 48 inches tall, $32.99. Tickets purchased at least three days in advance online are available at the reduced price of $39.99. All prices are in Canadian dollars
Marineland
Marineland is a great change of pace for families visiting Canada. After visiting the natural beauty of Niagara Falls, visitors can enjoy the marvels of modern engineering at this Ontario theme park. Featuring heart-racing rides, amusing sea lions and acrobatic dolphins, Marineland has something for everyone.
The Sky Screamer
Marineland's
, the world's highest triple-tower ride at 450 feet, offers a spectacular view of the Falls themselves but only for a brief second as you fly by at speeds of up to 60 miles per hour. This death-defying ride is definitely not for the faint of heart.
Wild Animals
In addition to featured shows with killer whales and dolphins, Marineland offers visitors the chance to get up close and personal with many animals, from feeding beluga whales to petting deer. Park officials plan on opening their newest attractions, the
, soon.
Casual Grub
Cafeteria-style
are located throughout the park, serving standard kid-friendly fare including pizza and hamburgers. There are also food kiosks offering snack items and cold drinks.
Safety Record
Our research revealed no notable news reports of accidents or safety issues at Marineland. There are, however, several
that are disappointed with the treatment of the marine life at the park.
Address: 7657 Portage Road, Niagara Falls, Ontario L2E 6X8, CanadaPhone: 905-356-9565Hours: 10 a.m. to dark daily. Schedule changes seasonally, check online for more detailsPrice: $41.95 for visitors 10 years and up; $34.95 for children 5 to 9; children 4 and under are free. The park also allows you to upgrade your admission to an unlimited season pass for an additional $5. All figures are in Canadian dollars.
Other Noteworthy Parks Near Ontario
What's your favorite theme park in Canada?
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