School is either almost here ( Hello Canada!) or well underway ( Greetings Americans!) and parents the world over are both rejoicing and weeping into their passports! It’s no secret that I love summer! It’s a great season for travel and offers up the perfect opportunity to expand the learning beyond the classroom. Fall has its rewards too though; falling leaves, gentler breezes and a return to familiar routines among them.

The downside? Those “familiar routines” can often include worrying about school lunches, hustling to get kids to afternoon lessons and the dreaded math homework  questions. *shiver*

Before it all begins again, why not do as we did and squeeze in one last summer hurrah?

Stumped on where to go? Why not try one of these local gems:

Niagara-on-the-Lake

We recently headed to Niagara-on-the-Lake, which is about an hour’s drive from Toronto. With wineries, theatre and the lure of Niagara Falls – with the well earned title of world wonder – it makes for a great escape without all the hassle of traveling further abroad.

Whether you’re looking for a great family travel getaway or a bit of a romantic reprieve, it can’t be beat.  I was out there with just the boys last week and was bowled over by the opportunities for beautiful nature walks, high-flying adventure, a bit of culture through the Shaw Festival offerings (Don’t miss Peter and the Star Catcher – with or without the kids!) and delicious nibbles (It’s peach season!).  Check out some of our photos below.

GlobetrottingMama.com's Trip to Niagara - St. Vincent de Paul

This quaint church, St. Vincent De Paul, is in the town of Niagara-on-the-Lake. Flowers like these fill the streets of the town. We shot this one after a light lunch at Zee’s Restaurant across the street.

GlobetrottingMama.com's trip to Niagara - A rainbow over the falls

A shot of Niagara Falls from inside Elements Restaurant. The meal was fantastic and affordable and the view was the best I’ve ever had of the Falls.

GlobetrottingMama.com's Trip to Niagara - Niagara Gorge

Niagara Gorge-ous! This is a shot of the Niagara Gorge from the Whirlpool Aero Car – a  10-minute return trip on a suspended cable car that takes you out high above the churning waters.

For more information visit www.niagaraparks.com or www.shawfest.com

Explore Toronto

Whether you call the city home or are planning on popping in for a quick trip, there’s plenty to fill your days with. Need a refresher? Here’s a link to my article for Tourism Toronto about travelling to Toronto at this time of year. 

Whether you’re planning on hanging out in the backyard, at a friend’s cottage or on a quick getaway, I hope you’ll find some ways to enjoy everything that summer has to offer … at least one more time.