A Sweet Stroll Through the Aurora Community Arboretum — Even in the Humidity!

 There’s something a little magical about a green space that sneaks up on you.

That’s exactly what the Aurora Community Arboretum felt like — yet another hidden gem in Ontario - nestled between suburban streets and the GO train line, quietly thriving with native trees, curated gardens, and a deep sense of community pride. 

I finally got a chance to visit, and while the humidity nearly melted us into the grass, it was so worth it.

Located just off Industrial Parkway and stretching behind the Aurora Seniors Centre and the Aurora Family Leisure Complex, the arboretum is more than just a collection of trees. It’s a 100-acre living museum — cared for by volunteers — showcasing a growing collection of species from across Ontario and beyond.

We started our walk near John West Way, and almost immediately we were met with whimsical paths that seemed to wind forever. Some areas are formal and educational, with signage that tells you the name and origin of trees (a definite bonus for us tree geeks). Other spots are wild and peaceful, giving you that perfect “am I still in the city?” feeling.

You’ll find pollinator gardens buzzing with bees, shady benches under towering oaks, and gently sloping trails that bring you past ponds, meadows, and even a few art installations.

Now for the real part: it was humid. The kind of heavy, sticky July day where the air feels like soup and your shirt clings to your back within minutes. We had grand plans to wander every path and maybe even sketch a few trees, but after about 40 minutes, even the dragonflies looked tired. So we regretfully cut our visit short and made our way toward the train station. A cold drink and air conditioning were calling.

Still, we walked away impressed — and already planning a return visit when the air is less tropical. Maybe in the fall, when the trees are on fire with colour and you can feel that crisp edge in the air. I can already picture how beautiful it’ll be then.

If you’re ever in Aurora and have even half an hour to spare, give yourself the gift of this place. Whether you’re into photography, a quiet place to think, or just a casual walk, the Aurora Community Arboretum is a surprising, peaceful little world waiting to be explored.

Tip: Wear good shoes. Bring water. And maybe check the humidity before you go.

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Have you been to the Arboretum? Got a favourite trail or time of year to visit? I'd love to hear your thoughts in the comments.

Blossoms & Serenity: A Walk Through Japan at Kariya Park

Tucked away in the western part of Toronto in the city of Mississauga, lies a hidden gem that transforms into a breathtaking slice of Japan every spring—Kariya Park.

As cherry blossom season arrives, Kariya Park bursts into delicate shades of soft pink and white, drawing in visitors from everywhere. After a long, grey winter, this is a sign that spring is finally in the air.  Suddenly people are smiling, it feels wonderful and this place is impossibly beautiful.  I am not totally antisocial, but there are there places where you would love to visit all by yourself.  Because there are so many people it's hard not to find that peace and serenity you would find if you were along here.  After awhile you start feeling like a tourist, but if you wait until the crowd disperses you can still catch a photo or two.  After all, this is a place to be enjoyed by everyone.

The park is named after Mississauga’s sister city in Japan, is a peaceful Japanese-style garden located at 3620 Kariya Drive. 

Despite being in the middle of a busy downtown, it feels completely removed from the mainstream. You enter through a modest gate and are immediately surrounded by traditional Japanese elements—stone lanterns, wooden bridges, koi ponds, and perfectly manicured bonsai trees.

But it's during cherry blossom season, typically in late April to early May, that the park becomes truly magical. 

The sakura trees, a gift from Kariya, Japan, bloom in full glory for just a few days, and during that time, the park becomes alive with joyful visitors. Couples pose under blossoms, families enjoy quiet picnics, and photographers scramble to capture that perfect petal-fall moment.

There's something universally uplifting about cherry blossoms. Maybe it’s the reminder that beauty is fleeting, or maybe it’s just how the petals flutter like confetti in the breeze. Whatever it is, you can feel a collective happiness in the air. Strangers smile at each other. Everyone slows down.

If you’ve ever dreamed of visiting Japan in cherry blossom season but haven’t made it yet—Kariya Park offers a little piece of that experience right here in Ontario.

Have you been to Kariya Park during cherry blossom season? What did you love most? Drop your thoughts or photos in the comments—I’d love to hear from you!

 

Road Trip to Collingwood and Owen Sound

Remember when you were a kid and there was always that one unplanned trip with your folks that turned out to be the most memorable.  Or the trip that started out the worst you know the large cottage rental that was actually a one room shack and no working stove ending up being the best?

I've experienced a lot of those memories.  It makes you realize that it's not really what you have or where you go, it's who you're with that make these memories stick.

A Detour-Filled Adventure to Collingwood & Owen Sound
We hit the road again! I had every detail of our summer road trip carefully planned weeks in advance—but true to form, we tossed most of it out the window and still ended up having an incredible time.

Day 1: Caves, Sushi, and a Swinging Decision

We set off bright and early Sunday morning, rental car packed and stomachs empty—intentionally, since our first stop was Kiticho Sushi in Collingwood. No breakfast. We were saving every inch of appetite for the all-you-can-eat sushi feast (check out our review at aycetoronto.blogspot.ca).

After lunch, we checked into a local motel for two nights and made our way to one of the highlights of the trip: Scenic Caves Nature Adventures in the Blue Mountains.

Perched atop the Niagara Escarpment, this place is a fascinating mix of geological history and outdoor adventure. The caves and crevices were formed over 450 million years ago, and walking through them feels like stepping into the pages of an ancient story.

Though it was July, we learned this area transforms into a winter wonderland come snow season, offering over 27 km of ski trails and 8 km of snowshoe routes—including a path that leads to Southern Ontario’s longest suspension footbridge. And yes—we crossed it.

Well… eventually. My husband nearly chickened out, hesitant at the sight of the rope-lined bridge swaying above the forest floor. But just when it seemed like I’d be finishing the hike solo, he mustered the courage to join me, and we met at the other end grinning like kids who’d just conquered a rollercoaster.

Day 2: Waterfalls & Fresh Air in Owen Sound

The next morning, we headed to Owen Sound, a hidden gem for waterfall lovers. Our goal? Visit Inglis Falls, Indian Falls, and Jones Falls—all just minutes apart, but each offering a unique view and hiking experience.

We hiked, wandered, and soaked in the peaceful sounds of cascading water. There’s something grounding about being surrounded by forest and rock, with nothing but the sound of waterfalls to drown out the noise of everyday life.

We wrapped up with another AYCE stop—this time at Okinawa Sushi in Owen Sound (yes, we reviewed it too: aycetoronto.blogspot.ca).

By the end of the trip, we were sun-tired, satisfied, and deeply recharged. No airports. No customs. No chaos. Just two people reconnecting with nature—and with each other—on Ontario’s back roads.

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Sometimes, the best adventures happen when the plan goes out the window.
Have you ever gone on a spontaneous or semi-planned road trip?
Tell us your favourite road trip story in the comments—I'd love to hear where the open road has taken you!

Rediscovering Queen Victoria Park, Kitchener – Where Childhood Memories Come to Life

 There’s something beautifully nostalgic about revisiting a place from your childhood—the way the past and present blur, and for a moment, you’re both who you are now and who you once were. 

That’s exactly what happened to me when I recently spent an afternoon at Queen Victoria Park in Kitchener.

As I wandered down the familiar tree-lined paths and across the quaint footbridge, it was like stepping into a cherished memory. This was the park we used to visit whenever we went to see my grandmother. I could almost hear her voice, telling me not to run too close to the water, even as I darted toward it anyway, excited to see the ducks and swans.

Decades later, I was delighted (and honestly a little emotional) to find that the wildlife still comes right up to you—completely unafraid. 

The ducks waddled over with curiosity, the swans glide past in their usual elegance, and the squirrels, funny and bold as ever, pause just a few feet away before enjoying the peanuts. Songbirds chirp overhead, and blue jays and squirrels are old mates.

It’s not every day you find a place where animals still trust people this much. But here, in Queen Victoria Park, it’s clear they’ve been treated with kindness over the years. That level of trust is familiar in Ontario—and Canada. It says a lot about this community and the generations of visitors who’ve respected and loved this space.

The creek that flows through here is Schneider Creek and still looks the same, so whether you’re there for a quiet stroll, a moment of reflection, or just a chance to feed a few curious ducks, Queen Victoria Park doesn’t disappoint.

If you haven’t been in a while, go. Take your lunch, your kids, your camera—or just your memories. You’ll leave with a full heart. I certainly did.

The Thornton-Cookstown Trail: A Journey of Hills, Heat, and Hydration Challenges

Biking has always been a shared passion for my husband and me, so when we decided to tackle the Thornton-Cookstown Trail, we were excited about the adventure ahead. Little did we know, this ride would become one of our most unforgettable experiences—for better or worse!


The Thornton-Cookstown Trail stretches for a picturesque 16 kilometers, starting from Thornton and ending in the quaint village of Cookstown. It's a beautiful route, winding through lush forests, open fields, and charming rural landscapes. Perfect for a summer day, right? Well, sort of...

The day we chose to embark on this journey happened to be the hottest day in June. The sun blazed down on us, and to make matters worse, we had completely forgotten to pack any water. Undeterred, we set off, thinking we'd find a place to hydrate along the way. Big mistake.

As we pedaled through the trail, we encountered hills that seemed to go on forever. Grueling doesn't even begin to describe it (My husband added to my frustration, but keeping positive and not once agreeing with my misery) The combination of steep inclines and scorching heat quickly took its toll. By the time we reached Cookstown, we were exhausted and dehydrated.


The real challenge began after we reached the end of the trail. We needed to find the nearest GO Station to catch a train home, which was in Bradford, Ontario—another 12 kilometers away. With no other option, we mounted our bikes again and set off, hoping to find some respite along the way.

After what felt like an eternity—an hour and a half of pure heat exhaustion—we finally arrived in Bradford. Our first stop was the local community center, praying it would have a water fountain. As luck would have it, the center was closed, and there was no water fountain in sight.


We found an open washroom and did what we had to do: using our hands as water cups, we drank from the tap. It wasn't the most elegant solution, but it was effective. 

Standing there, drenched in sweat and frustration, I let my husband know in no uncertain terms that I would NEVER do this again. A few choice words were exchanged, but I knew I was letting off more steam than was already coming out of my helmet.


Somehow, we made it to the GO Station in time for the next train. As we collapsed into our seats, a strange sense of elation and accomplishment. I had made it through the toughest biking experience I'd had ever personally faced.


This ride on the Thornton-Cookstown Trail is now etched in my memory as the best and worst biking experience ever. It was a day filled with challenges, but also a testament to our resilience and partnership. Would I do it again? Probably not. But am I glad we did it? Absolutely.

Niagara Butterfly Conservatory

On a lovely spring Saturday morning, we decided to take the GO Train to Niagara Falls. First stop was to a buffet breakfast at the Young Garden buffet and BBQ before taking our bikes along the Niagara parkway to head for the Niagara Butterfly Conservatory, located at 2565 Niagara River Pkwy in Niagara Falls, Ontario Canada.


The first thing you will notice is the botanical gardens and outdoor cafes, with winding paths surrounding one of the largest glass-encased butterfly conservatories in North America.


Although their website touts there are over 2,000 different butterfly species, I think I have seen approximately 30-40 of them! My husband describes this place as magical! I don't think I would go that far, although I could appreciate this through the eyes of a child as such. I had a new camera with me, and was fumbling too much to try and get a still shot of the butterflies :) They were quite vivacious both in colour and personality! Some species, especially the pretty blue ones would not stay still for a second. I guessed that is evolution - since butterflies have no defense mechanisms, the bright coloured ones are easily spotted by prey, so they need to keep moving. Though I have seen pictures of them landing on people! Sadly, it was way too crowded when we went for this to occur.
 

I promise you it's like nothing you've experienced nothing like it before. Winding paths of wonderful garden and tropical plants. It's worth two hours of your time, but you may find it rather small and more eager people could probably go through it in an hour. The temperature is very tropical, so you may want to remember a water bottle.


They try to limit the number of people allowed in but could stay as long as I wanted. This is why it becomes very crowded as you would expect it to be for such a popular family experience. Everyone was patient and it was a joy to watch the parents with the young ones teach the kids to be kind and gentle when and if a butterfly landed on them or needed to be picked up to prevent being walked on.


I was fortunate to have a few butterflies land on my hand as did my husband. I also took pictures of different species who landed on others.


I am glad I came. Hope you have a chance to enjoy it too someday!

Happy Trails! 

St. Catherines - Burgoyne Bridge & Merritt Trail

Summer is always a great time in Toronto as our local Speed rail (GO train) can extend over 100 km from the downtown Hub at Union in all directions.

We took the Niagara Falls train to St. Catherine's on Saturday - it was an express train, missing a lot of the less busy stations so it took about 1.5 hrs - which if you know traffic in the 'GTA' that's a great clock time.

A short walk from the St. Catherines GO Train station you will come to the Burgoyne Bridge, originally built in 1915 and praised for its engineering, connected St. Paul Street West to downtown over Twelve Mile Creek Park valley. 

It was replaced by a new bridge in 2016, costing $99 million. The new bridge featured a distinctive arch but had safety concerns due to low railings and a gap between lanes, leading to frequent suicides.

In response, Niagara Region installed 10-foot high, rust-resistant aluminum barriers in 2020 to prevent further incidents. While these improvements enhanced safety, some criticized the demolition of the historic bridge, valuing its heritage significance over the new structure.

If you look down from the bridge you can see the Merritt Trail.  It runs alongside Highway 406, near the Burgoyne Bridge, following the path of the 1st, 2nd, and 3rd Welland Canals. It honors William Hamilton Merritt, who first proposed the Welland Canal. You'll find remnants of old canal locks and mills along the way.  It's not as peaceful as the Participark Trail due to its proximity to the highway.

The Garden City Skyway is a 40-meter-high section of the QEW between St. Catharines and Niagara-on-the-Lake that often closes during bad weather.

Starting from Bradley Street in south St. Catharines and ending at Martindale Pond Road in West St. Catharines, the Merritt Trail spans 11 kilometers, connecting with the Green Ribbon Trail and the Participark Trail. It's popular for walking, hiking, biking, and motorbiking.

                                                 

Unfortunately, being new to the area and had to time our walk around the train schedule back to Toronto as well as checking out an All You Can Eat restaurant in town (for my AYCEToronto blog of course!), we didn't do the entire trail today. 

Instead we started off 

from Gale Street following the Welland Canal and did a loop south to Richard Pier point and back around again following the creek.

We noticed a lot of litter in parts a long side the park trails in a few places as well as a few vagrants, but the town is pleasant and the people are pleasant.  Times are tough everywhere, especially in the smaller towns where work is in short supply and workers - even less.

We want to come back again once I have a better camera, and I promise I will take more pictures when we do the larger trail.

In the meantime... Happy Trails! :)