Everyone needs a vacation at some point. It is healthy to take a break and have a breather from work and responsibilities. According to Oprah.com, there are great benefits to taking a vacation including better sleep and lower stress. However, if physically travelling to another destination is not financially feasible or logistically possible, there are many cool things happening in our own Liberty Village backyard.
Medieval Times
For over 20 years, Medieval Times located at 10 Dufferin St (over by Dufferin and Liberty Streets), has operated Canada’s only location. It is a two hour performance taking us back in time to the Medieval era. Beautifully trained horses, skillful knights and a neat Kingdom story, are all part of the show. A feast is served and requires guests to eat with their hands. Lots of loud cheering is required to provide encouragement for the Knights as they play in a tournament of games. Medieval Times is suitable for all ages and operates all year long. Visit them online on Facebook, Instagram or Twitter.
MZTV Museum
Who knew that one of the most extensive collections of televisions was right here in our neighbourhood? It is the personal collection of Moses Znaimer, founder and creator of City TV and Zoomerplex. Expect to be awed and intrigued by the unique pieces in the museum including a TV once belonging to Marilyn Monroe, and a set made from lucite. A gem of a tour not to be missed for everyone of all ages. The MZTV Museum is located within The Zoomerplex complex at 64 Jefferson Ave. Visit The MZTV Museum online, on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter to learn more about how to book a tour.
Explore Exhibition Grounds
Exhibition Place is an amazing hub. Most notably known for key events held throughout the year like the CNE, the One of a Kind Show, and the Royal Winter Fair just to name a few. It is also the venue of many other great conventions and events throughout the year so be sure to constantly check their programming. During the nice weather, take a walk around Princess Gates and see the beautiful gardens.
Go for a Horse Back Riding Lesson
City dwellers that want to learn how to ride a horse don’t have to travel to the country. The Riding Academy, operated by the same owners as Sunnybrook Stables, have a riding stable located on Exhibition Grounds. It caters to riders of all levels with extremely well trained horses and instructors. The bond between horses and riders is very special and is something they can only be explained once it has been experienced. To learn more, visit The Horse Academy online, or on Facebook.
Catch a Concert
The newly renamed Budweiser Stage (formerly Molson Amphitheater) plays host to many concerts throughout the summer months. With the location so close to Liberty Village, it is easy access to and from the venue so all of the parking woes can be avoided. And with our abundance of restaurant and patio options, catching a bite pre and post concert is never a problem. Acts such as John Legend, Jack Johnson, Green Day and Kings of Leon will all be playing at the Budweiser Stage. Check here for the full schedule.
Cheer on a Sports Team
Between Ricoh Coliseum, BMO Field, and Lamport Stadium, these venues are home to 4 of Toronto’s sports teams. Both the Toronto Argos and Toronto FC play out of BMO Field. The Toronto Marlies play at the Ricoh Coliseum (and tickets are much more attainable than trying to get them to a Maple Leaf game). Lastly, Canada’s first transatlantic sports team, The Toronto Wolfpack will be playing their inaugural season out of Lamport Stadium.
While many of these suggestions listed in this article are things we can do at any point, even when we are working, it is also just as easy to brush them aside. When on a staycation, it allows us to truly explore what great things are around us and be tourists in our own neighbourhood.