When my family moved to Canada, my son started first grade, my daughter started daycare and I attended my first in-person class at York – all on the same day. It was an exciting day for all of us, and there was a special connection as we all went to school! I deepened this connection by taking them to visit York, as it has many opportunities for fun with families. Here are some of my favourites.
Watch a York theatre production or performance
I went with my son to the musical Bring It On by Vanier Productions, and we had such a fantastic time! As a big fan of the movie that the musical is based on, and musicals in general, I cherished the opportunity to show it to my son. I also wanted to give him a sense of life at York University. We were so happy after the show that my partner went the following Sunday - and she was equally happy. We also considered going on a date to one of their shows - they are amazing, and the ticket prices are student-friendly.
Pro tip: Read or sign up to receive the This Week at York newsletter to learn about upcoming events such as concerts, exhibitions, theatre plays and more.
Play games at the Break Room
The amount of excitement my kids (and I) have when we enter the Break Room is unimaginable— the reason: games. The Break Room is an on-campus arcade that has many of them, both digital and analog. You will find pool tables, air hockey, table soccer and there are also retro arcade games and board games. In the digital games area, you can find PlayStation 5, Xbox One and Nintendo Switch consoles and games such as Nintendo Switch Sports, Super Mario Party, Lego Star Wars: The Skywalker Saga, Final Fantasy XIII and others.
Walk around York’s campuses
There are some spectacular places to explore at York. Scott Library on Keele Campus is impressive to see; be sure not to miss it on your tour. I showed my family the Centre for Film and Theatre, the Junior Common Room at Winters College where I like to write and the building where I work my Work/Study position. I also suggest walking around and looking at sculptures and art installations across campus!
Pro tip: Here’s a map of York’s public art.
Have lunch at York Lanes
York Lanes has many places where you can have family lunch. Our choice was Timbers Lodge as it has nice fries - our kids' favourite meal any time of the day. On their menu is also a Cruiser pale ale beer that I love. And, it's good to know they have a happy hour menu from 3 to 5 p.m. and 8 to 10 p.m.
Pro tip: Check out all the places you can eat in York's Dining Directory.