Ontario

Adventures in Toronto & Niagara Falls With your Grandchild

Program No. 21047RJ

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.

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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

Plan ahead.

What kind of weather can you expect? Take a look!

Age 9 - 13

	ROOMING OPTION PRICING The figures below indicate the rooming options available.
DATES
Jul 23 - Jul 28, 2023 Per Adult 2,049 Per Child 1,549 Select
Jul 23 - Jul 28, 2023	2,049 / Adult 1,549 / Child	2,049 / Adult 1,549 / Child	2,549 / Adult 1,549 / Child	Select Date

Filling Fast! Aug 6 - Aug 11, 2023 Per Adult 2,049 Per Child 1,549 Select
Aug 6 - Aug 11, 2023	2,049 / Adult 1,549 / Child	2,049 / Adult 1,549 / Child	2,549 / Adult 1,549 / Child	Limited Space

Jun 23 - Jun 28, 2024 Per Adult 2,149 Per Child 1,599 Select
Jun 23 - Jun 28, 2024	2,149 / Adult 1,599 / Child	2,149 / Adult 1,599 / Child	2,699 / Adult 1,599 / Child	Select Date

Jul 21 - Jul 26, 2024 Per Adult 2,149 Per Child 1,599 Select
Jul 21 - Jul 26, 2024	2,149 / Adult 1,599 / Child	2,149 / Adult 1,599 / Child	2,699 / Adult 1,599 / Child	Select Date

Aug 4 - Aug 9, 2024 Per Adult 2,149 Per Child 1,599 Select
Aug 4 - Aug 9, 2024	2,149 / Adult 1,599 / Child	2,149 / Adult 1,599 / Child	2,699 / Adult 1,599 / Child	Select Date

Deposit, Transfer & Cancellation Policy

Program Terms & Conditions

Adventures in Toronto & Niagara Falls With your Grandchild

Program No. 21047RJ Deposit at Enrollment: 250 Final payment due: 77 days before departure date

Transfer & Cancellation Policy

Note: These fees apply to at least one date of this program, but may vary by date.

If you transfer or cancel:

fee will be applied if you do not call Road Scholar Participant Services at least one business day prior to the program start date

Cancel Fee: 100% of trip total

less than 30 days prior to program start date

Transfer Fee: 100% of trip total

Cancel Fee: 100% of trip total

66 to 30 days prior to program start date

Transfer Fee: 50% of trip total

Cancel Fee: 50% of trip total

up to 67 days prior to program start date

Transfer Fee: $0.00

Cancel Fee: $250.00

If you transfer or cancel:	Transfer Fee:	Cancel Fee:
fee will be applied if you do not call road scholar participant services at least one business day prior to the program start date		100% of trip total
less than 30 days prior to program start date	100% of trip total	100% of trip total
66 to 30 days prior to program start date	50% of trip total	50% of trip total
up to 67 days prior to program start date	$0.00	$250.00

COVID-19 Vaccination Policy

We require all Road Scholar participants, including children, to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19, and have at least one booster shot, if eligible.

Road Scholar Program Terms and Conditions

How to Enroll in a Program

Call Us or Enroll Online To enroll

Please call us toll free at (877) 426-8056, Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. ET. You may also enroll online at www.roadscholar.org. To reserve space on a program, Road Scholar requires a deposit followed by final payment.

Road Scholar is Not-For-Profit

Road Scholar is a not-for-profit 501 (c)(3) organization that incurs over $5 million annually on credit card fees. Please help us reduce this cost by paying for your program with a check. Please consider our paperless check option when paying on the phone or over the Internet. Our Advisors are happy to explain this payment option to you.

Tax-Deductible Donations

As a not-for-profit organization, we appreciate and rely on charitable donations to help us develop and maintain high-quality educational programs with exceptional value. Donations from U.S. citizens are tax-deductible as provided by law. As Road Scholar is not a registered charity in Canada, donations are not tax deductible for Canadian citizens.

Financial Assistance

Road Scholar offers two kinds of assistance: Scholarships, for those with desire but not the financial means to participate in our U.S.- or Canada-based learning adventures; and Caregiver Grants, designed to provide a unique respite opportunity for unpaid family caregivers to participate in a U.S.- or Canada-based Road Scholar program. Visit www.roadscholar.org/about/financial-assistance/scholarships, email us at scholarships@roadscholar.org, or call us toll free at (877) 426-8056.

General Program Information

Activity Level Ratings

Each Road Scholar program is assigned an Activity Level rating, ranging from Easy Going to Challenging, which are noted on program webpages. Try our Advanced Search tool to find programs that match your activity level. If you have special needs, or need a little extra help in finding the right program for your level of fitness and ambition, please call us and we’ll work to find options for you.

Disabilities and Special Needs

Road Scholar is committed to providing reasonable accommodation to participants with special needs and disabilities. If you have special needs requiring accommodation, please communicate them to Road Scholar at the time of enrollment. We will discuss your request with you and make every effort to accommodate you.

Service Learning

Our Service Learning programs bring participants together to work as a team to serve worthy projects. Road Scholar and sponsoring service institutions are not-for-profit organizations and are tax-exempt under Section 501 (c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code. The program price may qualify as a tax-deductible gift. However, since individual circumstances vary, we suggest participants contact their tax advisors.

Included Emergency Assistance and Medical Evacuation Insurance

Road Scholar’s continued commitment to our participants and their well-being is exemplified in our Road Scholar Assurance Plan. Whether participating on a program in the United States or on one of our programs overseas, every Road Scholar participant receives coverage under the Road Scholar Assurance Plan. This plan is purchased by Road Scholar on behalf of every participant. The plan provides 24-hour assistance in the event of an emergency during your program and insurance for emergency medical evacuation. This plan includes insurance benefits underwritten by Arch Insurance Company and emergency assistance services provided by LiveTravel Assist. To learn more about this plan, including its terms, conditions, limits, and exclusions, and to view and download a certificate of insurance, please visit: www.roadscholar.org/about/included-insurance/

Travel Health

In addition to maintaining necessary vaccinations, including seasonal influenza vaccination, Road Scholar recommends all participants consult with their physician, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the World Health Organization (WHO) and the U.S. Department of State regarding their health condition and any recommendations specific to the destinations they will visit or transit well before departure. While Road Scholar does its best to provide pertinent information regarding international health requirements and travel health precautions for travel abroad, please remember we are not health experts and can only share with you the recommendations made by the CDC and the US Department of State. It It is therefore your responsibility to consult with your physician and/or contact the CDC for health information specific to your travel destination. Your physician will be able to assess your overall health and fitness, provide information and guidance on health risks you may encounter while traveling, medication you may need to take, and other precautions for the prevention of injury and illness during your program.

Here is guidance from the Centers for Disease Control on how to avoid contracting and spreading an illness.

Only travel if you are healthy. Stay home if you are sick, displaying any symptoms of potential sickness.
Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. Use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol if soap and water are not available.
Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands.
Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.
Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.

For those looking for additional resources on this topic, we recommend trusted sources such as your physician, the US Department of State, CDC, and WHO.

U.S. Department of State: www.travel.state.gov
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC): www.cdc.gov/travel
World Health Organization (WHO): www.who.int/

Your health and safety are of the utmost importance to us. To learn more about Road Scholar’s commitment to our participants’ well-being and the steps you can take to keep yourself healthy when traveling, please visit www.roadscholar.org/practical-information/general-health-safety/

Please also be sure to review our Travel Updates webpage for the latest travel information, steps we are taking to keep your program experience as safe as possible, as well as helpful information about how to prepare for your upcoming program and what to expect once you're there. www.roadscholar.org/practical-information/travel-updates/

Domestic Travel Arrangements

Programs in the United States and Canada require independent arrivals and departures unless otherwise stated, meaning that you must make your own travel arrangements to and from the program site. If you are flying to your program, you will be responsible for getting yourself from the airport to the starting location of your program and returning to the airport at the end. Please keep in mind that many airlines assess penalties if you need to change or cancel your ticket— up to 100 percent of the ticket price in certain cases — for which you will be responsible. Please also be aware that Road Scholar may occasionally have to alter a program in a way that affects flight schedules, and you will be responsible for changing your flight arrangements and paying applicable fees. For the greatest protection, we recommend waiting until 60 days prior to your program in the United States or Canada to purchase airfare.

International Travel Arrangements

Road Scholar Can Help Arrange Your International Airfare

Almost all of our international programs can be purchased with airfare arranged by Road Scholar. We have negotiated special international rates with major airlines. A list of departure cities can be found by visiting our website or calling to speak with one of our experienced Advisors. As an added benefit, guaranteed airport transfers on the program’s published start and end date are included with your international air travel when arranged through Road Scholar. If your preferred airport is not listed, or you would like to travel on a different day, travel in premium or business class, specify the airline or routing, or travel independently before or after our program, we are happy to customize and create a personalized air travel itinerary to meet your needs. Select the “Custom Flight Arrangements” option and then the airport you want, or discuss your flight preferences with one of our expert air Travel Advisors.

Arranging Your Own International Airfare

If you choose to make your own international air travel arrangements, you will be responsible for getting yourself from the airport to the starting location of your program and returning to the airport at the end. Please keep in mind that many airlines assess penalties if you need to change or cancel your ticket— up to 100 percent of the ticket price in certain cases — for which you will be responsible. Please also be aware that Road Scholar may occasionally have to alter a program in a way that affects flight schedules, and you will be responsible for changing your flight arrangements and paying applicable fees. For the greatest protection, we recommend waiting until 90 days prior to your International program to purchase airfare,

Road Scholar Optional Trip Protection with “Cancel for Any Reason” Coverage

The optional Road Scholar Trip Protection Plan helps protect your investment if you must cancel or interrupt your program for specified, covered reasons, such as illness or injury to you, your traveling companion or an immediate family member of you or your traveling companion. Plus, if you need to cancel your program for any reason not covered by insurance, you will receive a credit good for future travel with Road Scholar for the full amount of the Road Scholar cancellation fee. The plan also provides benefits if you are delayed getting to or returning home from your program and protects your investment should you have an emergency during your program that causes you to miss program days or return home earlier than expected. Your airfare, whether purchased through Road Scholar or independently, is covered at no additional cost — an exceptional benefit and value offered exclusively to Road Scholar participants. You will receive information about this optional travel insurance plan when you enroll in a program. To learn more about this plan, including its terms, conditions, limits, and exclusions, and to view and download a certificate of insurance, please visit: www.roadscholar.org/about/protection-plan.

Additional Program Information

Our goal is to make sure our participants have the most enjoyable and rewarding program experience possible. Whether you are considering one of Road Scholar’s many educational adventures or are currently enrolled in a program, we highly recommend you review the additional program information available in the Practical Information section on our website. The section includes a wide range of topics and information -- everything from how to choose the perfect program to traveling solo to insurance. Please visit www.roadscholar.org/practical-information, or call us if you have specific questions. After you enroll in a program, please be sure to carefully read all pre-program communications and your Program preparatory materials, as they provide important information about how to prepare for your upcoming program and what to expect once you're there.

Program Policies

Deposit, Transfer and Cancellation Policy

Road Scholar requires deposits for all its programs, and charges fees if you transfer or cancel your enrollment. Deposits and fees vary between programs. Please refer to the Deposit, Transfer & Cancellation Policy on program webpages for specific deposit amounts, and transfer and cancellation fee schedules.

About Program Details and Itineraries

We make every effort to operate our programs as advertised. The information on our website is updated regularly, and reflects the most up to date information. We are committed to providing participants with final program details no later than three weeks before the start of land programs within the United States, four weeks for programs International and Afloat programs. and one week for online programs. However, itineraries or other aspects of a program may change due to situations beyond the control. If this happens we will do our best to notify you of the change prior to arriving on your program. We ask you to pack a little extra patience and flexibility, just in case there are last-minute changes to your program.

If Road Scholar Cancels or Interrupts a Program

Road Scholar reserves the right to cancel programs prior to departure, terminate a program early, and to take action as needed on an individual or group basis when, in Road Scholar’s opinion, the health, safety or well-being of participants requires such action. Additionally, due to low enrollment or other unforeseen circumstances, Road Scholar must occasionally cancel or change the dates of a program. When that occurs we will notify you as far in advance as possible and will assist you in transferring your enrollment to another program or refunding your full Road Scholar program payment. If you have made transportation arrangements, such as an airline ticket purchase, Road Scholar will give you a credit good for future travel with Road Scholar to help cover the cost of transferring your travel arrangements for use on a replacement program. The maximum value of the credit will be $300 and documentation of your paid fees is required before issuance of the credit.

Accuracy of Information

While every effort is made to provide accurate information on our website and in our catalogs, Road Scholar is not responsible for typographical errors, inaccuracies or omissions that may relate to program descriptions, pricing, and availability. Road Scholar reserves the right to correct any errors, inaccuracies or omissions that may appear in our publications, and to change or update information at any time without prior notice. If you discover an error on our website or catalog, please let us know.

Program Pricing

As a not-for-profit organization, we are dedicated to providing exceptional educational opportunities at a remarkable value. We do everything in our power to ensure that the published program price is the price you pay. On occasion, costs we can’t anticipate and that are beyond our control arise and may be passed along to you. If this occurs, we will let you know as soon as possible.

Terms and Conditions

Program Selection
We want every participant to have a safe, enjoyable and rewarding program experience. The travel and activities of Road Scholar programs require participants to be in good general health and capable of performing all program activities as described by the program description and its corresponding Activity Level. As a group travel experience, participants must be capable of caring for themselves during the program and agree not to impede the progress of the program or interfere with the enjoyment of other participants. Participants are required to disclose known medical and physical conditions that may interfere with their safety and well being or the safety and well being of others during this program. Road Scholar may limit or terminate the participation in the program at the participant’s expense and without refund any participants who fail to disclose all medical information or do not honestly assess their physical capabilities in advance. With this information in mind, carefully consider the travel and program demands as described on the Road Scholar website, and consult with your physician about your travel plans. If after enrolling you have second thoughts about the program you chose, please call us and we will be happy to assist you in finding a program better suited to your abilities.

Responsibility

Road Scholar’s responsibility is limited. Road Scholar organizes, promotes, and sells educational programs consisting of certain travel services, including land, air, and water transportation, excursions, and cruise/barge/hotel accommodations that Road Scholar purchases or reserves from various suppliers (collectively, “Suppliers”). Road Scholar neither owns nor operates any of these Suppliers; they are independent contractors and are not Road Scholar’s agents. Therefore, Road Scholar is not responsible for any negligent or willful act or failure to act of any Supplier or any other third party. You agree that you will look to such Suppliers, and not to Road Scholar or its agents, for any accident, injury, property damage, or personal loss you may suffer. Without limitation, Road Scholar is not responsible for any injury, loss, or damage to person or property, death, delay, or inconvenience in connection with the provision of, or failure to provide, any goods or services occasioned by or resulting from — but not limited to — acts of God or force majeure, acts of war or civil unrest, insurrection or revolt, strikes or other labor activities, criminal or terrorist activities of any kind, mechanical or other failure of airplanes or other means of transportation, or the failure of any transportation mechanism to arrive or depart on time, or for any other cause beyond the direct control of Road Scholar.

Safety & Risks

Certain risks — from natural disasters to accidents, outbreaks of illness, crime, insect-borne and other infectious diseases, environmental risks to health, terrorism and other unforeseen events — are inherent in travel. While such occurrences are beyond our control, we make substantial efforts to be prepared for such possibilities. Participants are encouraged to review the safety and travel information provided by the U.S. Department of State and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to learn about current security issues, travel advisories and warnings, recent embassy notices, country-specific health information, health risks you may encounter while traveling, precautions for the prevention of illness, disease and general health issues during your program and other helpful destination-specific information. By enrolling in a program, you agree to assume responsibility for your own health, safety, and welfare, and acknowledge that Road Scholar cannot guarantee your safety or health at any time.

Admission & Participation Policy

The granting or denial of admission to a program is within the sole discretion of Road Scholar. Road Scholar reserves the right to revoke admission or terminate or limit participation at any time if Road Scholar reasonably determines a participant’s condition, behavior or actions are inappropriate or disruptive, or adversely affect the participant’s health or safety, or the health, safety or enjoyment of other participants. Road Scholar reserves the right to take action as needed on an individual or group basis when, in Road Scholar’s sole opinion, the health, safety or well-being of participants requires such action.

Photography and Video

Road Scholar reserves the right to take photographs, videos or audio/visual recordings during the operation of any program or part thereof and to use them, whether taken by a representative of Road Scholar or by other participants, for promotional purposes. By enrolling in a Road Scholar program, participants agree to allow their images or recordings to be used for such purposes. Participants who prefer that their images or recordings not be used are asked to identify themselves to program staff and the photographer at the commencement of their program. For Road Scholar online programs, all audio or video recordings, content and materials are the property of Road Scholar. Participants are prohibited from taking screen captures, or making, copying or distributing all or part of any audio or video recordings of online programs.

Online Program Terms

If you enroll in one of Road Scholar’s online programs, you are responsible for the integrity of the device on which you will attend this online program, as well as your own high-speed internet connection. Road Scholar is not responsible for outages or interruptions in internet service. Road Scholar cannot and will not provide recordings, content or materials, or provide reimbursement of any kind, for missed portion(s) of your online program, regardless of the reason.

Seller of Travel Information

Road Scholar’s state of Washington Seller of Travel Reg. No. 602244658. CST #2068427-40. Florida Seller of Travel Reg. No. ST35594.

Modifications to Terms and Conditions

Road Scholar reserves the right at any time to update, change, modify, or revise these Terms and Conditions at any time. Any changes will become effective upon posting the changes, modifications or revisions to the Terms and Conditions. Accordingly, participants should review Road Scholar’s Terms and Conditions regularly prior to travel in order to ensure they are aware of any changes.

© 2023 Elderhostel. All rights reserved. The Road Scholar service marks, logos, website address and other marks are owned by Elderhostel, a not-for-profit organization dedicated to inspiring adults to learn, discover and travel.

Optional Trip Protection Plan

Prefer to enroll or inquire by phone? 800-454-5768

6 days

5 nights

12 meals

5B 3L 4D

Check-In, Registration, Welcome Dinner, Orientation

Toronto, ON

Kensington Market Scavenger Hunt, Chinatown, Study Cruise

Toronto, ON

Ripley's Aquarium, Free Time

Toronto, ON

Old Town Toronto, St. Lawrence Market, Niagara Falls

Niagara Falls

Whirlpool Aero Car, Butterfly Gardens, Niagara--on-the-Lake

Toronto, ON

Program Concludes

Toronto, ON

View Full Itinerary

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…

Experience Kensington Market as you race around its vibrant and historic streets on a scavenger hunt.
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 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

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 (21 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.

Search for a Title

All the Broken Things

by Kathryn Kuitenbrouwer

September, 1983. Fourteen-year-old Bo, a boat person from Vietnam, lives in a small house in the Junction neighbourhood of Toronto with his mother, Thao, and his four-year-old sister, who was born severely disfigured from the effects of Agent Orange. Named Orange, she is the family secret; Thao keeps her hidden away, and when Bo's not at school or getting into fights on the street, he cares for her. One day a carnival worker and bear trainer, Gerry, sees Bo in a streetfight, and recruits him for the bear wrestling circuit, eventually giving him his own cub to train. This opens up a new world for Bo--but then Gerry's boss, Max, begins pursuing Thao with an eye on Orange for his travelling freak show. When Bo wakes up one night to find the house empty, he knows he and his cub, Bear, are truly alone. Together they set off on an extraordinary journey through the streets of Toronto and High Park. Awake at night, boy and bear form a unique and powerful bond. When Bo emerges from the park to search for his sister, he discovers a new way of seeing Orange, himself and the world around them. All the Broken Things is a spellbinding novel, at once melancholy and hopeful, about the peculiarities that divide us and bring us together, and the human capacity for love and acceptance.

Hatchet

by Gary Paulsen

In the first of Paulsen's wilderness adventure novels, 13-year-old Brian must fend for himself after his plane crashes in the Canadian woods.

Niagara, A History of the Falls

by Pierre Berton

Meticulously researched and entertaining, this history of Niagara Falls captures the sideshow atmosphere of the place with its honky-tonk attractions and daredevil feats. An engrossing social history.

The Great Lakes, Stories from Where We Live

by Sara (EDT) St. Antoine (Editor)

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.

A Traveller's History of Canada

by Robert Bothwell

A readable and admirably concise march through Canadian history from prehistory to today, including a timeline.

Toronto, Biography of a City

by Allan Levine

From politics to transportation, public health to sports, historian Allan Levine explores four centuries of Toronto's history, introducing the forces and faces that shaped the city's multi-faceted identity.

Negotiating a River, Canada, the US, and the Creation of the St. Lawrence Seaway

by Daniel Macfarlane

This political and environmental history looks at the defining episodes of the St. Lawrence Seaway megaproject, from the complex diplomatic negotiations between the US and Canada to its lasting impact on transnational relations.

Rosie's Dream Cape

by Zelda Freedman

Based on a true story, this charming juvenile novel tells of how eleven-year-old Rosie and her grandmother Bubba Sarah arrive in Toronto from Russia after fleeing one of the purges that carried away Rosie's mother, a famous Russian dancer. To help make ends meet, Rosie works in Yitzy's factory sewing velvet capes for Eatons, all the while dreaming of making such a cape from scraps, and wearing it to Toronto's Royal Alexandra Theatre. Although Yitzy warns Rosie, "don't steal the scraps," she cannot resist, and each evening when she dumps the scraps in the garbage, she hides the best ones in her apron. This tale provides a wonderful insight into how an immigrant child survives with her values and dreams intact despite the harsh working conditions of a 1921 garment factory

The St. Lawrence, River Route to the Great Lakes

by Lynn Peppas

Sixth in a series of illustrated primers on riverways around the word for ages 9-12, this is also a nice introduction for the family.

The Deptford Trilogy

by Robertson Davies

An omnibus edition of Fifth Business (1970), The Manticore (1972) and World of Wonders (1975). Noteworthy for their faultless prose, memorable characters and trenchant humor, these novels follow the fate of three youths in Ontario.

Faster than the Wind

by Steve Pitt

It is 1900, and 14-year-old Bertie McCross is a newspaper boy in downtown Toronto. Berties family has fallen on hard times and can use every penny he brings home from hawking newspapers on the frigid streets. However, in order to do that Bertie has to keep out of the clutches of the Kelly Gang, a family of slightly older Cabbagetown toughs who are shaking down "newsies." On Christmas Eve, Bertie is almost cornered by the Kellys but is saved by Tommy Fry and Milwaukee Ed, who introduce Bertie to the thrills of iceboat racing on Lake Ontario. Soon Bertie is swept up in the fast and dangerous sport and meets a whole crew of new friends, including Isobel, a girl from a wealthy family with a mansion on Jarvis Street. The continued pursuit by the Kelly Gang, a plunge into freezing harbour water, and the clash of classes all lead up to a spine-tingling race to end all races.

Paddle-to-the-Sea

by Holling C. Holling

Holling's captivating tale introduces youngsters to the geography and history of North America through the story of a young Indian boy and the toy canoe he launches on a journey from the Great Lakes to the Atlantic.

The Incredible Journey

by Sheila Burnford

Instinct told them that the way home lay to the west. And so the doughty young Labrador retriever, the roguish bull terrier and the indomitable Siamese set out through the Canadian wilderness. Separately, they would soon have died. But, together, the three house pets faced starvation, exposure, and wild forest animals to make their way home to the family they love. The Incredible Journey is one of the great children's stories of all time--and has been popular ever since its debut in 1961.

The Blind Assassin

by Margaret Atwood

Winner of the Booker Prize in 2000, this hauntingly beautiful novel interweaves two disparate strands: one, a murder mystery set in Toronto at the close of WWII; the other, the text of the murdered woman's science fiction novel, which may hold a clue to her death.

In the Skin of Lion

by Michael Ondaatje

Bristling with intelligence and shimmering with romance, this novel tests the boundary between history and myth. Patrick Lewis arrives in Toronto in the 1920s and earns his living searching for a vanished millionaire and tunneling beneath Lake Ontario. In the course of his adventures, Patrick's life intersects with those of characters who reappear in Ondaatje's Booker Prize-winning The English Patient.

Unbuilt Toronto, More of the City That Might Have Been

by Mark Osbaldeston

With 150 photographs, maps, and illustrations, Unbuilt Toronto tracks the origins and fates of some of the city's most interesting planning, transit, and architectural "what-ifs."

The Star Supper

by Troon Harrison

December 1914: Millie is looking forward to a beautiful Victorian Christmas, just as usual. With her father away fighting in the war, she is especially determined to keep holiday traditions alive during this time of turmoil. Although Christmas will be anything but “as usual” this year. With the unexpected arrival of Molly and Feather as well as some new faces, everyone has differing opinions on how Christmas should be celebrated. Will all of Millie’s perfect plans be dashed? Will this be the worst Christmas ever?

Pandora's Locks, The Opening of the Great Lakes-St. Lawrence Seaway

by Jeff Alexander

This detailed history of the St. Lawrence Seaway, which opened in 1959, focuses on the engineering feat's often devastating environmental effects.

Inventing Niagara

by Ginger Strand

A witty, well-researched tale of the transformation of a natural wonder into an engineering feat, spectacle and monument.

I Am Algonquin: An Algonquin Quest Novel

by Rick Revelle

This book paints a vivid picture of the original peoples of North America before the arrival of Europeans. The novel follows the story of Mahingan and his family as they live the traditional Algonquin way of life in what is now Ontario in the early fourteenth century. Along the way we learn about the search for moose and the dramatic rare woodland buffalo hunt, conflicts with other Native nations, and the dangers of wolves and wolverines. We also witness the violent game of lacrosse, the terror of a forest fire, and the rituals that allow Algonquin boys to be declared full-grown men. But warfare is also part of their lives, and signs point to a defining conflict between Mahingan’s nation, its allies the Omàmiwinini (Algonquin), Ouendat (Huron), and the Nippissing against the Haudenosaunee (Iroquois). The battle’s aftermath may open the door to future journeys by Mahingan and his followers.

The Great Lakes

by Wayne Grady

Wayne Grady showcases the nature and ecology of the Great Lakes, hub of industry and agriculture and home to 40 million people, in this illustrated portrait of the region, including its geological formation, conservation challenges, forests and resources. With hundreds of color photographs and illustrations by Emily Damstra.

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6 days

5 nights

12 meals

5 B 3 L 4 D

DAY

Check-In, Registration, Welcome Dinner, Orientation

Toronto, ON

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 a local restaurant.

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 review COVID protocols and will adhere to applicable requirements and guidelines throughout the program. 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. The hotel is located in the heart of Toronto, surrounded by shops, restaurants, movie theatres, and within walking distance to the Ed Mirvish Theatre, the Toronto Police Museum, and the escape game room Roundabout. Continue getting to know your fellow Road Scholars, settle in, and get a good night’s rest for the day ahead.

DAY

Kensington Market Scavenger Hunt, Chinatown, Study Cruise

Toronto, ON

B,L,D

Chelsea Hotel, Toronto

Activity note: Use of public transit. Getting on/off a 76-foot steamship; riding about 1 hour. Walking up to 2 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. We’ll then set out on a walking field trip beginning at Kensington Market. From there, it’s a short walk to bustling, colorful Chinatown. We’ll learn about the history of the Chinese community in Toronto; Jewish and Eastern European immigration and history; fine art, graffiti art and murals, moose on rooftops; and a famous King who lived here. Toronto is one of the most multicultural cities in the world, celebrating more than 100 different cultures and more than 180 spoken languages. We’ll also have a scavenger hunt for young and old to learn about the area in a fun and interactive way.

Lunch: At a local restaurant.

Afternoon: Next, we’ll take public transit to the harbour and board a replica 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” — downtown Toronto’s only indoor waterslide — and other supervised activities.

DAY

Ripley's Aquarium, Free Time

Toronto, ON

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

Old Town Toronto, St. Lawrence Market, Niagara Falls

Niagara Falls

B,L,D

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

Whirlpool Aero Car, Butterfly Gardens, Niagara--on-the-Lake

Toronto, ON

B,L,D

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 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

Program Concludes

Toronto, ON

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!