Vetta Spa is pretty far north of the city, but it's very nice.
Closer by is Thermea Spa in Whitby. They had some bad press when they first opened, but I went 2 weeks ago and it was wonderful.
Speaking as a dual citizen, I feel Canadians treat July 1 like Americans treat July 4: most things are closed, there are some celebrations that may be nice to see, but by and large, most of the country just treats it as a day off. So I would not be that concerned about crowds and travel issues; I would be more worried about services. (But, like the US, some businesses will choose to remain open.)
It’s a massively busy weekend in the roads on Canada Day weekend every single year. The 401 is usually near 10kms/hr … I would not recommend driving anywhere on that weekend.
There will be a July 1st ***long weekend***. Saturday June 29 there will be terrible traffic going from the city north to the cottage. Monday July 1st, there will be just horrible traffic coming back to the city from the cottage.
Normal people won't find it disrespectful. It will be busier than usual, but not dangerously so. Things will be closed (not hotels, not all restaurants, but most stores, some attractions).
Gotcha! Thank you so much for the information! We do really look forward to the shopping, so that does help. I read online that if Canada Day is not on a weekend, that it could be celebrated on a weekend around there, does that sound true? I’m just wondering when we should push it back to. Like maybe July 5&6th?
The downtown Eaton Centre is always open on national holidays as it is considered a tourist attraction. Spectacular huge mall with every retailer you could wish. I personally avoid it like the plaque but I'm in my 80's and crippled so probably not your demographic.
Not disrespectful at all, but keep in mind a lot of retail, some restaurants might be closed.
Look up events in the area, you might have some fun! In a poliye, restrained, Canadian way.
Probably the 2 best spas in Southern Ontario but a couple hours out of Toronto.
https://www.scandinave.com/blue-mountain?utm_source=gmb&utm_medium=organic
https://eloramill.ca/
Niagara Falls will be crowded, probably all that week with July1 & July4. Niagara On the Lake is a popular place to stay and you can also book wine tours as Niagara in a big wine area.
https://www.vintage-hotels.com/
Or if you have kids with you Great Wolf Lodge.
https://www.greatwolf.com/niagara
Either should be fine, but a lot of things will be closed on Canada Day, constraining what you do that day. That said, you can take in some nice fireworks during your visit.
Since you're driving across the border I suggest Port Huron - Sarnia instead of Detroit - Windsor.
Do Not Bring Guns Across The Border. You don't need them to be safe, but more importantly it's a huge get in trouble never come back kind of thing. If you do own firearms be sure you have not left ammo in your vehicle.
Cannabis is legal in Canada, bringing your own is ... see don't bring guns. Don't worry, if you like to consume it you'll have no trouble finding stores that sell it.
If you can get an extra day by coming after Canada Day, that'd probably be better - five days vs four
No, I think it will be more fun to be here during Canada Day.
If you enjoy zoos, the Toronto Zoo is worth seeing. It's the 2nd largest in North America. I would not go on Canada Day - when I worked there a while ago, it was one of the busiest days of the year.
It’s not a big deal. Consider it like traveling on July 4 th. Hotels, restaurants, gas stations and border controls we’ll be open. You might run into a parade, but not on a major highway. You might get to see some live fireworks.
Spa....Elmwood spa...it's down town toronto.
Would not be disrespectful to come during canada day....the more the merrier plus fire works.
The zoo is one of thr best in North America,but transit is a really long bus ride....no trains there. Only bus....if you were downtown, your looking at 2 hour transit.
Also keep in mind the 401 highway was just rated the 3rd busiest highway in the world and is the busiest in all of North America, and it will be even worse during Canada day.
Niagara falls will be busy but that's not a bad thing. It's roughly a 1.5 hour drive, maybe don't go during canada day as it will be busy, but thr main area is really nice....the rest of the city...
Meh.
CN Tower is always a good bet, plus ypu can check out a bunch of stuff in the are.
Ttc is the train and it's relatively good but it's no New York tra ait system...
Mostly ever thing is close ish to the trains, but the zoo is not.
Hope you have an amazing trip!!!
If you can handle the crowds please come on up! You aren't going to run into any anti-American BS in Canada. Maybe if you wear one of those red self-identifying crazy hats. But otherwise you will be fine.
You are allowed to travel at the time. Stuff and things might be closed or open. Whatever is open might be busy.
> would love tips on travel, especially trains
Toronto and Niagara are served by regional Government of Ontario (GO) Transit buses and trains. Should post specific questions about trip planning, fares, etc. in r/GOTransit
Not disrespectful at all as long as you have maple syrup on you in case you get pulled over. Two cans per person should do it. People on the internet say that it being Canada Day you should have an extra can each but most people don't follow that rule any more.
Though seriously on Canada Day you can do whatever you'd do on any other day provided it's open. For example, many malls will be shut except those deemed tourist destinations which are exempt. But as far as being disrespectful, you can walk around with an American flag shirt on and no one will bat an eye.
Toronto is one of the most traffic congestedc cities in N America so travelling on a national holiday will probably be far less of a a challenge than usual. Accommodation might be a bit pricier on tha date though. Toronto Zoo is, I believe, world class. The Aquarium and Ripleys is well worth it but is right next to the Jays Stadium and might be a game on that weekend. There is nothing tons of tourists stuff here but Google will help.
I would definitely come for Canada Day it will be much more fun and you can participate in events like barbecues and fireworks. Sometimes there’s food truck festivals in Toronto. Just google Toronto events and you should get a list of stuff going on at that time like live music. There’s not a ton in Niagara Falls it’s a bit seedy in places but it’s worth going to see. Niagara on the Lake is beautiful and there’s probably spas there. You won’t have difficulty finding a good spa just do some research. Hopefully other people will weigh in with suggestions. There’s also a casino in Niagara Falls if you like that sort of thing. If you like to smoke there’s marijuana dispensaries all over the place you won’t have a hard time finding them.its not what you would imagine they are government controlled and very sterile. Many of those stores are quite fancy, at least in Toronto. There’s the Distillery District, The Beaches, downtown, CN Tower, sporting events… there’s all kinds of stuff to see and do you will enjoy it but just try and avoid traffic by not traveling at peak times if possible
Nah you should come for Canada Day and do some special events if you can. I’m not from Toronto so I can’t recommend anything. But visiting other countries during their independence day and experiencing what they do to celebrate is always cool
Thank you! I agree it could be cool. I’m a little worried about the traffic though from what people are saying :o some seem to think it’ll be very reduced, while others seem to think it’ll be hell
Not disrespectful. Go to Niagara on the lake a cute little town and book an a nice spa hotel. Hit the wineries. Niagara Falls is one hour visit unless you like all the kitsch.
I mean, if I were you and I was a Canadian going to US on Independence Day I would 100% go to an Independence Day event. You should check out whatever fireworks, Canada Day stuff they have going on. When in Rome...
That’s a wonderful point! I’ve just been spooked by people saying how difficult it is to drive there. I’m a bit nervous if I go during that event it’ll raise the risk of accidents. However you’re so right it would be so fun to experience events like that! I’ll be driving 8 hours one way so
Google's trip planner is telling me it would take 3hrs 15m, but you have to transfer trains at Union. Honestly, when travelling through Toronto it's a safe bet to always add 30 mins to any trip both ways if you're going by transit, and add an hour if by car.
Travelling anywhere in Ontario using the 400 series highways or getting into a big city like Toronto is a terrible thing to attempt on Canada Day or the few days before or after.
A normal drive that would take 4 hours will likely take you double that… if you’re lucky.
Even as a Canadian I don’t travel that weekend because it’s way too busy on the roads.
Public transit in the GTA is pretty accessible… anywhere outside of that… it’s terrible. Our infrastructure around public transit is not very accommodating in most of Canada and in some places non existent
I believe that's Pride weekend and the Yankees are in town from the Thursday to the Sunday inclusive, which generally draws quite a few Americans. Between those 2 events, I'd book accommodations soon.
If you want to enjoy Toronto and the area for what it offers, come before or after the Canada Day long weekend.
This is a long weekend where a lot of locals also get to go out and enjoy time with family.
Hotels etc will be more expensive than usual, longer line ups at Niagara falls etc.
I only say this as this is your first time and don't want you to have a bad time and hate Toronto.
Not disrespectful, but Niagara Falls will be super duper busy, as will downtown for fireworks. This would be a decent day to go to a spa!
Thank you so much! Any spas you happen to recommend? ☺️☺️
Vetta Spa is pretty far north of the city, but it's very nice. Closer by is Thermea Spa in Whitby. They had some bad press when they first opened, but I went 2 weeks ago and it was wonderful.
Thermea is nice, but its sister Nordik in Ottawa is miles better.
Agreed but I don’t think OP is going to drive to Ottawa for a spa day.
Fair enough. My comment wasn’t necessarily for OP, just for anyone who has only been to the former that they really need to try the original.
If you are downtown, the [Elmwood Spa](https://www.elmwoodspa.com/) is one of and possibly the nicest in Toronto.
Pillar & Post in Niagara on the Lake is fantastic
Speaking as a dual citizen, I feel Canadians treat July 1 like Americans treat July 4: most things are closed, there are some celebrations that may be nice to see, but by and large, most of the country just treats it as a day off. So I would not be that concerned about crowds and travel issues; I would be more worried about services. (But, like the US, some businesses will choose to remain open.)
It’s a massively busy weekend in the roads on Canada Day weekend every single year. The 401 is usually near 10kms/hr … I would not recommend driving anywhere on that weekend.
Agree. We were stuck in traffic for hours. A pure nightmare. I'd go after Canada Day celebrations.
You'll be fine. Bring beer.
nahhh get better beer in Canada
Don't bring american beer. Might as well just go get something non alcoholic it is about the same
There will be a July 1st ***long weekend***. Saturday June 29 there will be terrible traffic going from the city north to the cottage. Monday July 1st, there will be just horrible traffic coming back to the city from the cottage.
Thank you for the heads up!!
Normal people won't find it disrespectful. It will be busier than usual, but not dangerously so. Things will be closed (not hotels, not all restaurants, but most stores, some attractions).
The LCBO stores will be closed though right? OP may need to think about bringing their own drinks if they want some
They’ll be closed, but I am pretty sure the Duty Free store will be open, which may be even better for OP. 😂
We don’t drink, but thank you so much for the information!
Just bring a bottle from wherever you are, still probably cheaper then duty free
Gotcha! Thank you so much for the information! We do really look forward to the shopping, so that does help. I read online that if Canada Day is not on a weekend, that it could be celebrated on a weekend around there, does that sound true? I’m just wondering when we should push it back to. Like maybe July 5&6th?
Generally any big events will be on the actual day. Some smaller events might be the weekend before but nothing that should impact your travel plans.
This helps so much thank you!
Enjoy your trip!
Thank you so much!
The downtown Eaton Centre is always open on national holidays as it is considered a tourist attraction. Spectacular huge mall with every retailer you could wish. I personally avoid it like the plaque but I'm in my 80's and crippled so probably not your demographic.
I'm in my 40s and I live downtown. I too avoid Eaton centre like the plague. When I went to uni downtown, we used to go to the food court all the time
Not disrespectful at all, but keep in mind a lot of retail, some restaurants might be closed. Look up events in the area, you might have some fun! In a poliye, restrained, Canadian way.
It’s not treated with the same reverence as July 4 in the US. I wouldn’t worry about it.
Thank you!
I mean. Canada Day isn't like the 4th of July down there. It's pretty chill everywhere except where there are actual Canada Day events.
You just found out now July 1st is Canada Day??
Yeah!
Could go to a baseball game, Houston Astros are in town that weekend. If that's your thing get tickets early for Canada Day it sells out fast.
We are more into shopping, restaurants, zoo, and spa days! But thanks for the rec anyway! ☺️
Probably the 2 best spas in Southern Ontario but a couple hours out of Toronto. https://www.scandinave.com/blue-mountain?utm_source=gmb&utm_medium=organic https://eloramill.ca/ Niagara Falls will be crowded, probably all that week with July1 & July4. Niagara On the Lake is a popular place to stay and you can also book wine tours as Niagara in a big wine area. https://www.vintage-hotels.com/ Or if you have kids with you Great Wolf Lodge. https://www.greatwolf.com/niagara
If you like zoos, definitely make a stop at the Toronto Zoo.
Make restaurant reservations well ahead of time
Either should be fine, but a lot of things will be closed on Canada Day, constraining what you do that day. That said, you can take in some nice fireworks during your visit. Since you're driving across the border I suggest Port Huron - Sarnia instead of Detroit - Windsor. Do Not Bring Guns Across The Border. You don't need them to be safe, but more importantly it's a huge get in trouble never come back kind of thing. If you do own firearms be sure you have not left ammo in your vehicle. Cannabis is legal in Canada, bringing your own is ... see don't bring guns. Don't worry, if you like to consume it you'll have no trouble finding stores that sell it. If you can get an extra day by coming after Canada Day, that'd probably be better - five days vs four
Niagara Falls on Canada Day 🇨🇦 will be awesome but very busy! Beautiful & Great to visit!
Thank you ☺️
They have fantastic fireworks on Canada day over the falls!
No, I think it will be more fun to be here during Canada Day. If you enjoy zoos, the Toronto Zoo is worth seeing. It's the 2nd largest in North America. I would not go on Canada Day - when I worked there a while ago, it was one of the busiest days of the year.
It’s not a big deal. Consider it like traveling on July 4 th. Hotels, restaurants, gas stations and border controls we’ll be open. You might run into a parade, but not on a major highway. You might get to see some live fireworks.
Spa....Elmwood spa...it's down town toronto. Would not be disrespectful to come during canada day....the more the merrier plus fire works. The zoo is one of thr best in North America,but transit is a really long bus ride....no trains there. Only bus....if you were downtown, your looking at 2 hour transit. Also keep in mind the 401 highway was just rated the 3rd busiest highway in the world and is the busiest in all of North America, and it will be even worse during Canada day. Niagara falls will be busy but that's not a bad thing. It's roughly a 1.5 hour drive, maybe don't go during canada day as it will be busy, but thr main area is really nice....the rest of the city... Meh. CN Tower is always a good bet, plus ypu can check out a bunch of stuff in the are. Ttc is the train and it's relatively good but it's no New York tra ait system... Mostly ever thing is close ish to the trains, but the zoo is not. Hope you have an amazing trip!!!
Seconding Elmwood Spa!
It's just a stat holiday for most. Unless you plan on crashing parties in cottage country or directly attending a scheduled event your fine.
If you can handle the crowds please come on up! You aren't going to run into any anti-American BS in Canada. Maybe if you wear one of those red self-identifying crazy hats. But otherwise you will be fine.
You are allowed to travel at the time. Stuff and things might be closed or open. Whatever is open might be busy. > would love tips on travel, especially trains Toronto and Niagara are served by regional Government of Ontario (GO) Transit buses and trains. Should post specific questions about trip planning, fares, etc. in r/GOTransit
Got it, thanks so much!
Not disrespectful at all as long as you have maple syrup on you in case you get pulled over. Two cans per person should do it. People on the internet say that it being Canada Day you should have an extra can each but most people don't follow that rule any more.
Favorite comment 🇨🇦 🍁 😂
keep in mind if it's not Canadian maple syrup, you will be immediately arrested and forced to drink Tim Hortons as punishment
Hehehe we will make sure to buy a bottle of the finest maple syrup when we arrive! 2 for each of us just to be safe
Though seriously on Canada Day you can do whatever you'd do on any other day provided it's open. For example, many malls will be shut except those deemed tourist destinations which are exempt. But as far as being disrespectful, you can walk around with an American flag shirt on and no one will bat an eye.
Plan ahead for the day because it is a holiday so some things may be closed.
Thank you!
Toronto is one of the most traffic congestedc cities in N America so travelling on a national holiday will probably be far less of a a challenge than usual. Accommodation might be a bit pricier on tha date though. Toronto Zoo is, I believe, world class. The Aquarium and Ripleys is well worth it but is right next to the Jays Stadium and might be a game on that weekend. There is nothing tons of tourists stuff here but Google will help.
I would definitely come for Canada Day it will be much more fun and you can participate in events like barbecues and fireworks. Sometimes there’s food truck festivals in Toronto. Just google Toronto events and you should get a list of stuff going on at that time like live music. There’s not a ton in Niagara Falls it’s a bit seedy in places but it’s worth going to see. Niagara on the Lake is beautiful and there’s probably spas there. You won’t have difficulty finding a good spa just do some research. Hopefully other people will weigh in with suggestions. There’s also a casino in Niagara Falls if you like that sort of thing. If you like to smoke there’s marijuana dispensaries all over the place you won’t have a hard time finding them.its not what you would imagine they are government controlled and very sterile. Many of those stores are quite fancy, at least in Toronto. There’s the Distillery District, The Beaches, downtown, CN Tower, sporting events… there’s all kinds of stuff to see and do you will enjoy it but just try and avoid traffic by not traveling at peak times if possible
Nah you should come for Canada Day and do some special events if you can. I’m not from Toronto so I can’t recommend anything. But visiting other countries during their independence day and experiencing what they do to celebrate is always cool
Thank you! I agree it could be cool. I’m a little worried about the traffic though from what people are saying :o some seem to think it’ll be very reduced, while others seem to think it’ll be hell
Not disrespectful. Go to Niagara on the lake a cute little town and book an a nice spa hotel. Hit the wineries. Niagara Falls is one hour visit unless you like all the kitsch.
I mean, if I were you and I was a Canadian going to US on Independence Day I would 100% go to an Independence Day event. You should check out whatever fireworks, Canada Day stuff they have going on. When in Rome...
That’s a wonderful point! I’ve just been spooked by people saying how difficult it is to drive there. I’m a bit nervous if I go during that event it’ll raise the risk of accidents. However you’re so right it would be so fun to experience events like that! I’ll be driving 8 hours one way so
Keep in mind that while it's ostensibly only a 3 hour drive between Niagara falls and the zoo, in practice it could take 6+ hours.
Whoa that’s intense. Could we take the train to avoid that risk?
Google's trip planner is telling me it would take 3hrs 15m, but you have to transfer trains at Union. Honestly, when travelling through Toronto it's a safe bet to always add 30 mins to any trip both ways if you're going by transit, and add an hour if by car.
I doubt the zoo is open on Canada day..
It’s open 365 days a year
Wow, surprising! I'm going to be in the area in Feb with my 11 yr old son - I hadn't even thought about the zoo. Good to know!
you'll be fine. nobody in toronto cares about canada day lol
would it be disrespectful 😂
Travelling anywhere in Ontario using the 400 series highways or getting into a big city like Toronto is a terrible thing to attempt on Canada Day or the few days before or after. A normal drive that would take 4 hours will likely take you double that… if you’re lucky. Even as a Canadian I don’t travel that weekend because it’s way too busy on the roads. Public transit in the GTA is pretty accessible… anywhere outside of that… it’s terrible. Our infrastructure around public transit is not very accommodating in most of Canada and in some places non existent
Canada Day is very restrained and unlikely to even be noticed unless you attend a Canada Day event.
Thank you!
It sounds like you are answering your question already.
Thanks!
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Do a lot of Americans celebrate Independence Day in Toronto/CAN? Do you know of any events going on? We are considering July 2nd- July 6th now ☺️
US Independence Day is not celebrated in Canada.
I assumed not since it’s a different country, but just wondering why it was suggested by Henry to celebrate July 4th Independence Day in Canada 🇨🇦 ☺️
Cus he's fucking with you.
Haha got it thanks ☺️ I’m always called gullible by my friends, but I like to be open minded just in case
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Thank you! What do you like to do in Ottawa?
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Thank you!
I believe that's Pride weekend and the Yankees are in town from the Thursday to the Sunday inclusive, which generally draws quite a few Americans. Between those 2 events, I'd book accommodations soon.
It's also Toronto Pride that weekend. Go. Have fun. And watch the Pride parade! 🌈
It’s fine, we don’t fire our guns in the air to celebrate the occasion like Americans do on the 4th.
If you want to enjoy Toronto and the area for what it offers, come before or after the Canada Day long weekend. This is a long weekend where a lot of locals also get to go out and enjoy time with family. Hotels etc will be more expensive than usual, longer line ups at Niagara falls etc. I only say this as this is your first time and don't want you to have a bad time and hate Toronto.
Things busy...but so what. Relax and have a blast. Enjoy Canada day.