Today, speed bumps on the main street ensure you travel slowly through this village of about 13,000. This hamlet is part of the City of Vaughan and situated between two branches of the Humber River surrounded by densely forested landscape. You'll find upscale art galleries, antique shops, bakeries, and wedding boutiques.
This village attracts many affluent visitors and residents. It was at one time the home of former Canadian prime minister Lester B. Pearson and Canada's best known author and broadcaster Pierre Berton.
The star of the village is the McMichael Canadian Art Gallery.
The gallery is most famous for its collection of Canada's Group of Seven artists. However, until May 15 taking centre stage is the exhibition Life as a Legend: Marilyn Monroe. I became aware of the show when I was contacted by the gallery to provide information on one of the Marilyn photographs featured in my published book, Marilyn and the Making of Niagara. The book is now out of print.
Assistant curator Chris Finn says, "This exhibition explores artistic responses to the Marilyn persona. You'll see works by artists such as Richard Avedon, Andy Warhol, and John Vachon." Marilyn fans, like me, love it. The gallery (www.mcmichael.com or 888-213-1121) is located at 10365 Islington Ave., Kleinburg. Admission is $12 to $15.Open Monday to Sunday 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Parking is $5.
After you've had your fill of Marilyn, drive to the outskirts of the village where there are plenty of conservation areas. Take the winding hills to the Humber River Ridge and soak up spectacular vistas and views. The early morning light is breathtaking.
When it's time to eat, I headed to the Doctor's House Restaurant (www.thedoctorshouse.ca). This original house dates back to 1867 and gets its name from a succession of medical men who lived in the house. This is a favourite place for visitors and locals. There's lots of yummy stuff to eat.
If you're looking to get married, a non-denominational white chapel is nestled in woods behind the restaurant. Outdoors sculptured bronze works of art add to the ambiance.
If you go
From Niagara take the QEW to Highway 427 north to Highway 27 north. If the traffic is light, it's about a two-hour drive.
Buffalo gallery open for all
