Ontario
Adventures in Toronto & Niagara Falls With your Grandchild
Program No. 2104760MEADV-0219
Embark on a learning adventure with your grandchild as you explore friendly Toronto, Canada’s largest city, and experience the awe-inspiring roar and mist of Niagara Falls.
Enroll with Confidence
We want your Road Scholar learning adventure to be something to look forward to—not worry about. Learn more
Protecting the Environment
We offset a portion of the emissions created by your travel. Learn more
Prefer to enroll or inquire by phone?
800-454-5768
Age 9 - 13
ROOMING OPTION PRICING
The figures below indicate the rooming options available.
|
||||
---|---|---|---|---|
DATES | ||||
Jun 22 - Jun 27, 2025
2,299 1,699 | ||||
Jun 22 - Jun 27, 2025
| 2,299 / Adult
1,699 / Child
| 2,299 / Adult
1,699 / Child
| 2,899 / Adult
1,699 / Child
| |
Jul 6 - Jul 11, 2025
2,299 1,699 | ||||
Jul 6 - Jul 11, 2025
| 2,299 / Adult
1,699 / Child
| 2,299 / Adult
1,699 / Child
| 2,899 / Adult
1,699 / Child
| |
Jul 20 - Jul 25, 2025
2,299 1,699 | ||||
Jul 20 - Jul 25, 2025
| 2,299 / Adult
1,699 / Child
| 2,299 / Adult
1,699 / Child
| 2,899 / Adult
1,699 / Child
| |
Aug 3 - Aug 8, 2025
2,399 1,799 | ||||
Aug 3 - Aug 8, 2025
| 2,399 / Adult
1,799 / Child
| 2,399 / Adult
1,799 / Child
| 2,999 / Adult
1,799 / Child
| |
Not seeing the date you're looking for?
To be notified if dates of this program become available, click the button below.
This date is available to book as a private experience for your group!
6 days
5 nights
12 meals
5B 3L 4D
3
Ripley's Aquarium, Free Time
Toronto, ON
4
Old Town Toronto, St. Lawrence Market, Niagara Falls
Niagara Falls
6
Program Concludes
Toronto, ON
At a Glance
Rich history, weird science and boatloads of fun await you and your grandchild on this adventure in Toronto and Niagara Falls. Watch in delight as 2,000 butterflies swirl around you at the Butterfly Conservatory and thousands of colorful fish swim above and beside you at Ripley’s Aquarium. Experience Toronto’s waterfront as you cruise the harbour by boat and take a thrilling ride over the Niagara Gorge and Niagara whirlpool aboard an antique aero car.
Activity Level
Let's Go!
Walking two miles on city streets; use of public transit; stairs to access subway.
Small Group
Love to learn and explore in a small-group setting? These adventures offer small, personal experiences with groups of 13 to 24 participants.
Best of all, you’ll…
- Embark on a scavenger hunt around Toronto's City Hall and Nathan Phillips Square.
- Meet with expert aquarists at Ripley’s Aquarium to learn the secrets of caring for their animals.
- Get your feet wet as you ride through the spray of over 600,000 gallons of water crashing down a second at Niagara Falls.
General Notes
Program is for grandchildren ages 9-13.
Featured Expert
All trip experts
Jim Hill
Jim has been with The Niagara Parks Commission, which preserves historic sites including Old Fort Erie, Laura Secord Homestead, Mackenzie Printery, McFarland House and the Heroes and Legends Shop at Table Rock, for 18 years. Jim also worked for Parks Canada and the Friends of Fort George, holds a private pilot’s license, is a Captain in the Reserve Army and lives with his wife Jeannie in Niagara Falls, Ontario.
Please note: This expert may not be available for every date of this program.
Jason Kucherawy
View biography
With his colleague Steve Woodall, Jason Kucherawy starting offering expert-led walking explorations of Toronto ten years ago, as an outgrowth of their previous experience together as leaders for educational organizations. Both men have extensive experience working with teenagers, students of English as a second language, and international travelers of all ages. Jason, Steve and the others they work with combine deep knowledge of the Toronto area with wit, energy, enthusiasm and their genuine enjoyment of meeting people from around the world.
Jim Hill
View biography
Jim has been with The Niagara Parks Commission, which preserves historic sites including Old Fort Erie, Laura Secord Homestead, Mackenzie Printery, McFarland House and the Heroes and Legends Shop at Table Rock, for 18 years. Jim also worked for Parks Canada and the Friends of Fort George, holds a private pilot’s license, is a Captain in the Reserve Army and lives with his wife Jeannie in Niagara Falls, Ontario.
Veronica Lasanowski
View biography
Going abroad for the first time in England sparked intellectual curiosity for Veronica Lasanowski, where she subsequently studied as an undergraduate at a 15th-century castle. The uniqueness of that curricular experience led to postgraduate studies at the London School of Economics and Political Science. As an avid traveler and lifelong learner, Veronica worked for the Royal Collection Trust at Buckingham Palace. In her free time from her travels, Veronica enjoys visiting food markets, browsing books and exploring the beautiful city of Toronto.
Routes Adventures Mobile Phone
View biography
Please call the toll free line at 1-866-745-1690 during regular business hours or for non-urgent matters (Mon - Fri 8:30 - 4:30 EST). The mobile phone #1-613-331-5777 is for after hours and weekends for emergency use only. The phone is carried by a staff member.
Suggested Reading List
(6 books)
Visit the Road Scholar Bookshop
You can find many of the books we recommend at the Road Scholar store on bookshop.org, a website that supports local bookstores.
Adventures in Toronto & Niagara Falls With your Grandchild
Program Number: 21047
Inventing Niagara
A witty, well-researched tale of the transformation of a natural wonder into an engineering feat, spectacle and monument.
Toronto: A Pictorial Celebration
Bruce Bell's latest book on Toronto, including fantastic photography. A look at the top 100 sites in Toronto. Bruce is a noted historian, journalist, author, playwright, actor, and curator and is part of this program experience.
The Great Lakes, Stories from Where We Live
Geared for ages 9-12, this charming guide to the people, places, animals and ecology of the Great Lakes includes short stories, poems, essays and historical accounts.
Weird But True Canada: 300 Outrageous Facts About the True North
Get ready to be amazed and delighted by wacky facts, stats, tidbits, and trivia.
NOTE: for ages 8 - 12
Ripley's Aquarium of Canada
Featuring sea creatures both large and small gathered from across the globe, you will be drawn into a dazzling world of mystery and wonder. Perfect for all ages, this beautiful book appeals to anyone who has ever been intrigued by water, from the smallest rivers and lakes to the depths of the oceans.
Learn About Canada for Kids Ages 8-12: Includes Fun Facts About Canada's History and Modern Culture
Filled with beautiful colour photographs and peppered with a few cheeky cartoons, this book informs and tells engaging stories - some funny and some more significant to Canada's history.
Whether your child is Canadian and needs to learn more about their home country, or you plan to visit Canada and want to learn more about the history and modern-day culture. This book has you covered and is one your child will truly enjoy reading. You'll enjoy it too!
Program
At a Glance
Duration
6 days
Program Begins
Toronto, ON
Program Concludes
Toronto, ON
Group Type
Small Group
Meals
12
| 5B |
3L |
4D |
Activity Level
Rich history, weird science and boatloads of fun await you and your grandchild on this adventure in Toronto and Niagara Falls. Watch in delight as 2,000 butterflies swirl around you at the Butterfly Conservatory and thousands of colorful fish swim above and beside you at Ripley’s Aquarium. Experience Toronto’s waterfront as you cruise the harbour by boat and take a thrilling ride over the Niagara Gorge and Niagara whirlpool aboard an antique aero car.)
Best of all, you'll...
- Embark on a scavenger hunt around Toronto's City Hall and Nathan Phillips Square.
- Meet with expert aquarists at Ripley’s Aquarium to learn the secrets of caring for their animals.
- Get your feet wet as you ride through the spray of over 600,000 gallons of water crashing down a second at Niagara Falls.
General Notes
Program is for grandchildren ages 9-13.
Featured Expert
Jim Hill
Jim has been with The Niagara Parks Commission, which preserves historic sites including Old Fort Erie, Laura Secord Homestead, Mackenzie Printery, McFarland House and the Heroes and Legends Shop at Table Rock, for 18 years. Jim also worked for Parks Canada and the Friends of Fort George, holds a private pilot’s license, is a Captain in the Reserve Army and lives with his wife Jeannie in Niagara Falls, Ontario.
Please Note:
This expert may not be available for every date of the program
Jason Kucherawy
With his colleague Steve Woodall, Jason Kucherawy starting offering expert-led walking explorations of Toronto ten years ago, as an outgrowth of their previous experience together as leaders for educational organizations. Both men have extensive experience working with teenagers, students of English as a second language, and international travelers of all ages. Jason, Steve and the others they work with combine deep knowledge of the Toronto area with wit, energy, enthusiasm and their genuine enjoyment of meeting people from around the world.
Veronica Lasanowski
Going abroad for the first time in England sparked intellectual curiosity for Veronica Lasanowski, where she subsequently studied as an undergraduate at a 15th-century castle. The uniqueness of that curricular experience led to postgraduate studies at the London School of Economics and Political Science. As an avid traveler and lifelong learner, Veronica worked for the Royal Collection Trust at Buckingham Palace. In her free time from her travels, Veronica enjoys visiting food markets, browsing books and exploring the beautiful city of Toronto.
Routes Adventures Mobile Phone
Please call the toll free line at 1-866-745-1690 during regular business hours or for non-urgent matters (Mon - Fri 8:30 - 4:30 EST). The mobile phone #1-613-331-5777 is for after hours and weekends for emergency use only. The phone is carried by a staff member.
Activity Level
Let's Go!
Walking two miles on city streets; use of public transit; stairs to access subway.
Small Group
(13 to 24)
Love to learn and explore in a small-group setting? These adventures offer small, personal experiences with groups of 13 to 24 participants.
Suggested Reading List
View Full List
(6 Books)
You can also find many of the books we recommend at the Road Scholar store on bookshop.org, a website that supports local bookstores.
HAVE QUESTIONS?
Prefer to enroll or inquire by phone?
We can help. Give us a call, and we can answer all of your questions!
Call
800-454-5768
While we make every effort to ensure the accuracy of our published materials, programs are typically advertised more than a year prior to their start date. As a result, some program activities, schedules, accommodations, personnel, and other logistics occasionally change due to local conditions or circumstances. Should a major change occur, we will make every effort to alert you. For less significant changes, we will update you during orientation. Thank you for your understanding.
Duration
6 days
5 nights
What's Included
12 meals | 5B | 3L | 4D |
1 expert-led lecture
8 expert-led field trips
An experienced Group Leader
5 nights of accommodations
Taxes and customary gratuity
Road Scholar Assurance Plan
Day
1
Check-In, Registration, Welcome Dinner, Orientation
Location:
Toronto, ON
Meals:
D
Stay:
Chelsea Hotel, Toronto
Activity Note
Hotel check-in from 3:00 p.m.
Afternoon:
Program Registration. 4:00-5:00 p.m. After you check in and have your room assignment, join us at the Road Scholar table in the lobby to register with the program staff, get any updated information, and confirm the time and location of the Orientation session. If you arrive late, please locate your Group Leader and let them know you have arrived.
Dinner:
At hotel.
Evening:
Orientation: 7:30 p.m. The Group Leader will greet everyone and lead introductions. We will review the up-to-date program schedule, discuss roles and responsibilities, logistics, safety guidelines, emergency procedures, and answer questions. We will learn from a series of local experts who will give lectures and lead field trips. Travel and transportation for program-related activities will be via private motorcoach as well as public transportation (streetcars, subway). Program activities, schedules, personnel, and indicated distances or times may change due to local circumstances/conditions. In the event of changes, we will alert you as quickly as possible. Thank you for your understanding. The remainder of the evening will be at leisure. Continue getting to know your fellow Road Scholars, settle in, and get a good night’s rest for the day ahead.
Day
2
Scavenger Hunt, Nathan Phillips Square, Study Cruise
Location:
Toronto, ON
Meals:
B,L,D
Stay:
Chelsea Hotel, Toronto
Activity Note
Use of public transit. Getting on/off a 76-foot steamship; riding about 1 hour. Walking up to 3-4 miles throughout the day, approximately 3 hours; pavement, stairs.
Breakfast:
At the hotel.
Morning:
We will be joined by a local expert who will teach us about Toronto’s history and some of the city’s most vibrant and culturally diverse neighbourhoods. Embark on a scavenger hunt around Toronto's City Hall and Nathan Philips Square. Match photographs with their locations on a map and uncover the stories behind each monument, public art, and statue. From the majestic architecture of City Hall to the eclectic array of sculptures and monuments, we will learn about Toronto's rich history and vibrant culture. Decode intriguing questions at each spot, earn points for correct answers, and compete against friends for a fun and educational outdoor adventure.
Lunch:
At a local restaurant.
Afternoon:
Next, we’ll take public transit to the harbour and board a 76-foot Great Lakes Steamship replica that has been decorated with the perfect blend of varnished woods, wrought iron, polished brass, and plush upholstery. Two wrought iron staircases lead to the canopied upper deck. We’ll embark on a study cruise to experience Toronto Harbor on the water. With a local expert, we will view the city’s breathtaking skyline including the Harborfront, CN Tower, Rogers Centre, Scotiabank Arena, Toronto Islands, and the fabled Gibraltar Point Lighthouse.
Dinner:
At a local restaurant.
Evening:
Returning to the hotel, the remainder of the evening will be at leisure. You might like to enjoy the on-site hotel facilities. Kids of all ages love it! The Family Fun Zone features the Kid Centre, pool and the 130-foot “Corkscrew” indoor waterslide — the only one in downtown Toronto - and other supervised activities.
Day
3
Ripley's Aquarium, Free Time
Location:
Toronto, ON
Meals:
B
Stay:
Chelsea Hotel, Toronto
Activity Note
Use of public transit. Walking up to 2 miles indoors and out; some stairs. Extent of walking and other activities during free time according to personal choice.
Breakfast:
At the hotel.
Morning:
We will set out via public transit for a field trip to the Ripley Aquarium, a public aquarium featuring more than 20,000 freshwater and exotic sea specimens. Our exploration of the Canadian Waters Gallery will take us from coast to coast learning about some of the country’s spectacular habitats, freshwater wildernesses, fisheries, and kelp forests. We’ll also have an opportunity to see the inner workings of the aquarium. We’ll also go behind the scenes to the animal husbandry department with an expert aquarist who will explain the food preparation and water filtration systems that mimic the animals’ natural habitats.
Lunch:
This meal has been excluded from the program cost and is on your own to have what you like. The Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions.
Afternoon:
Free time. This period of time has been set aside for your personal independent exploration to see and do what interests you most. Please refer to the list of Free Time Opportunities. The Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions. Please note that the period scheduled for free time is subject to change depending on local circumstances and opportunities for independent exploration.
Dinner:
On your own to enjoy what you like. The Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions.
Evening:
At leisure. Prepare for check-out and transfer in the morning.
Day
4
Old Town Toronto, St. Lawrence Market, Niagara Falls
Location:
Niagara Falls
Meals:
B,L,D
Stay:
DoubleTree Fallsview Resort & Spa by Hilton Niagara Falls
Activity Note
Getting on/off a motorcoach; driving about 90 miles, approximately 2 hours riding time. Getting on/off a sight-seeing boat; is approximately 1/2 hour. Walking up to 2 miles throughout the day; pavement, stairs.
Breakfast:
At the hotel.
Morning:
We’ll head out via motorcoach to explore the history and flavors of the city with a local expert. We’ll see some places even locals don’t know about: hidden gems that are often overlooked. In Old Town Toronto, we’ll stop in front of St. Lawrence Hall, St. James Cathedral, as well as various historical sites along the way. The fusion of classic architecture and modern amenities is enhanced by the stunning view of Toronto’s skyline. We will end our walk at historic St. Lawrence Market, considered by “Food and Wine” magazine to be one of the world’s 25 best food markets. The restored 1845 market building is home to more than 50 specialty vendors. We will then board a motorcoach and ride to Niagara Falls and check in to our hotel. Note: Depending on traffic, check-in could be before or after lunch.
Lunch:
At a local restaurant.
Afternoon:
At Niagara Falls, we will experience the thundering water, awesome power, and amazing mist of one of Canada’s natural wonders. We will get up-close and personal on a new state-of-the-art catamaran boat, “Voyage To The Falls” and ride from the Canadian docks at the base of the Great Gorge, past the American Falls, Bridal Veil Falls, and mighty Horseshoe Falls.
Dinner:
At a local restaurant.
Evening:
At leisure.
Day
5
Whirlpool Car, Butterfly Conservatory, Niagara--on-the-Lake
Location:
Toronto, ON
Meals:
B,L,D
Stay:
Chelsea Hotel, Toronto
Activity Note
Getting on/off a motorcoach; driving about 80 miles throughout the day, approximately 1.5 hours riding time. Walking up to 2 miles throughout the day; pavement, stairs.
Breakfast:
At the hotel.
Morning:
We will board a motorcoach and ride to the Great Gorge. We’ll be transported through the air in an antique cable car, high above the racing Niagara River while far below the torrent of water abruptly changes direction and creates one of the world’s most mesmerizing natural phenomena: the unforgettable Niagara Whirlpool. Next, we will ride to explore the Butterfly Conservatory, this magical place features more than 2,000 colorful tropical butterflies floating freely among lush, exotic blossoms and greenery. Paths wind through the rainforest setting, past a pond and waterfall and the Emergence window, where butterflies leave their pupae and prepare to take their first flight.
Lunch:
At a picnic area, we’ll have box lunches.
Afternoon:
Next, we’ll board a motorcoach for a field trip with a local expert to explore the historic Niagara area including Niagara-on-the-Lake. We’ll learn about the area from times of the First Nations peoples to the arrival of Europeans and eventually the War of 1812. We’ll ride through the battlefields on the motorcoach with an occasional stop to explore these battlefields from the War of 1812 and Queenston Heights. We will also have some time for independent exploration in Niagara-on-the-Lake before dinner.
Dinner:
At a restaurant in Niagara.
Evening:
We will ride back to Toronto and check in to our hotel for the night. Prepare for check-out and departure in the morning.
Day
6
Program Concludes
Location:
Toronto, ON
Meals:
B
Activity Note
Hotel check-out 11:00 a.m.
Breakfast:
At the hotel. This concludes our program.
Morning:
If you are returning home, safe travels. If you are staying on independently, have a wonderful time. If you are transferring to another Road Scholar program, detailed instructions are included in your Information Packet for that program. We hope you enjoy Road Scholar learning adventures and look forward to having you on rewarding programs in the future. Don’t forget to join our Facebook page and follow us on Instagram. Best wishes for all your journeys!
Please select a day to update the map
Map details are not available for this location.
MEALS
12 Meals
5 Breakfasts
3 Lunches
4 Dinners
LODGING
Lodgings may differ by date. Select a date to see the lodgings specific to that date.
Showing Lodging For:
- Jun 22, 2025 - Jun 27, 2025
- Jun 22, 2025 - Jun 27, 2025
- Jul 06, 2025 - Jul 11, 2025
- Jul 20, 2025 - Jul 25, 2025
- Aug 03, 2025 - Aug 08, 2025
Participant Reviews
Based on 8 Reviews
Sort By:
My grand daughter and I were very pleased with our Road Scholar experience. She loved the Falls boat cruise and aero car experience. I liked the mix of urban and tourist sites. Our Road Scholar guide, Felicia Cohen, was responsive to our needs and reimbursed me for the taxi from the airport when the one arranged by Road Scholar took someone else and left us stranded. I was amazed that she could manage such a large group on public transit. The restaurant choices were fine and the food ample. Dim Sum and the view from Table Rock House were delightful. Jason was and
excellent presenter however for the children a shorter lecture with visuals the first night would have been preferable.
— Review left July 30, 2024
..
— Review left July 28, 2024
A wonderful experience for the grandkids with a good mix of activities. The group leader was fantastic. Dinner the first night was mediocre. After that, meals were very good. Camaraderie within the group was marvelous.
— Review left July 26, 2024
This program was absolutely spectacular in every way. We had the experience of a big city as well as the contrast with Niagara Falls and Niagara-on-the-Lake. The included activities and information sessions were well run and enjoyable for both the kids and the adults.
— Review left July 30, 2023
This was an excellent and well thought out program for us and our grand daughter! WE would highly recommend it!
— Review left July 11, 2023
This was our second grandparents' trip with Road Scholar and we would highly recommend it! The exploration of Toronto was exceptional and field trip to Niagara Falls was fantastic. We were able to visit the falls over 2 days, for a complete exloration of the area around the falls. The restaurant for our evening meal was delicious, but equally important was the spectacular view from our table of Niagara Falls!
— Review left August 13, 2022
Yes, I can walk 2 miles but I did not anticipate all the stopping and standing during the walks. That made my legs ache.
— Review left August 12, 2022
WOW! Great trip! Toronto was a great walking city with many family friendly venues. Niagara Falls was amazing and a must see! Great program Road Scholar.
— Review left June 29, 2022