THE CENTRE OF IT ALL
Living Arts Centre In its 11-year history, the Living Arts Centre (page 36) has worked hard to become Mississauga’s cultural heart. Its popularity—the LAC sees more than 300,000 visitors annually—speaks to the success of that original intention. The 225,000-square-foot multi-use facility buzzes with activity year-round. Two performance theatres, Hammersmith Hall and the RBC Theatre, provide distinctive spaces for gala performances and high-profile theatrical productions, while the Rogers Theatre offers a more intimate space. The Mississauga Choral Society and Orchestra Mississauga call the LAC home, too. The complex also cultivates interest in the visual arts with a gallery that features rotating exhibits and eight studios housing resident artists and artisans. LIVE Cuisine Restaurant encourages appreciation of the culinary arts with a lunch buffet and, on show nights, a dinner buffet; call 905-306-6116 for reservations. 4141 Living Arts Dr., 905-306-6000.

AWESOME STICK ACTION
Hershey Centre This arena covers all the bases when it comes to sports and entertainment. Starting in October, The Hershey Centre hosts the Ontario Hockey League’s Mississauga St. Michael’s Majors, and features concerts, special events and trade shows all year long. Hockey fans aren’t the only sports enthusiasts well served. Also on site, the Hershey SportZone Complex encompasses a FIFA-sized indoor artificial-turf soccer pitch, as well as two outdoor soccer fields. 5500 Rose Cherry Pl., 905-502-9100.

A SURE BET FOR FUN!
Woodbine Racetrack One of Ontario’s best-known racecourses, Woodbine Racetrack boasts more than one outlet for adrenaline junkies hooked on taking their chances with Lady Luck. It’s home to the annual Queen’s Plate and Breeders’ Stakes, and features a full schedule of thoroughbred racing Thursday through Sunday (call for specific event dates and race times). OLG Slots at Woodbine (page 37) provides off-track amusement in a 56,000-square-foot gaming area with more than 1,700 slot machines. There’s no such thing as closing time either—the slots are open 24 hours every day. Enjoy two restaurants on the gaming floor: HoofBeats Lounge serves light meals, or try the buffet at Willows. 555 Rexdale Blvd., 416-675-7223.

TOP CONSUMER SHOWS
The International Centre Minutes from the airport, the International Centre is the place for trade and consumer shows. Each month, the huge, welcoming facility—there are six halls in total, ranging across 500,000 square feet—hosts many events at which high-profile exhibitors display their wares. Highlights among 2008 consumer shows include one of the centre’s most popular draws, the International Home Show (October 10 to 13), followed by the Fall Classic Collector Car Auction & Swap Meet (October 24 to 26). Get inspiration for the holidays at the Seasons Christmas Show (November 21 to 23) and the Toronto Christmas Train Show (Novmber 22 and 23). 6900 Airport Rd., 905-677-6131.

GET YOUR VIRTUAL GAME ON
PLAYDIUM Playdium attracts gamers of all stripes and age groups: at 40,000 square feet and covering 11 acres, there’s something for everyone. Kids and teens—and even adults—looking to blow off a little steam within the safety of virtual reality can choose from more than 200 arcade and interactive games. The site’s attractions extend into the 3-D realm, too. The Sports Dome has batting cages (choose your ball speed) for baseball fans looking to brush up on their skills. Bowlers get their kicks at Route 66, a four-lane bowling alley. An 18-hole outdoor miniature golf course and a go-kart track, both open seasonally, round out the offerings. 99 Rathburn Rd. W., 905-273-9000.

HOW 'BOUT DINNER AND A SHOW?
Stage West Theatre Restaurant Musicals and comedies with broad appeal are the specialty of Stage West Theatre Restaurant, a “Las Vegas–style” dinner theatre venue. Enjoy an extensive dinner buffet before an evening show, or a brunch matinee on Wednesday and Sunday. Special Monday night performances see a series of rock and pop tribute groups with plenty to bring back your memories of the ’60s and ’70s. Children’s shows return in November just in time to celebrate the holiday season. 5400 Dixie Rd., 1-800-263-0684.

BIGGEST MALL OF ALL
Square One Shopping Centre Get a glam new pair of boots, an elegant updo and something to take home to the kids, all in the same afternoon: Square One Shopping Centre is a paradise for shopaholics and multi-taskers alike. The enormous mall is Ontario’s largest, with more than 360 shops and services, including salons and spas, and such department stores as The Bay, Sears and Wal-Mart (said to be the largest in the world). You won’t starve while looking for the perfect jeans—with more than 40 restaurants and kiosks for grazing, find everything from frozen yogurt to sushi. 100 City Centre Dr., 905-279-7467.

FOR THE MOST FRESH-AIR FUN Erindale Park At more than 220 acres, Erindale Park is the city of Mississauga’s largest public park. This all-season, all-recreation public space offers myriad opportunities for outdoor activities. The David J. Culham Trail wends its way through dense forest and is frequently enjoyed by joggers, hikers, cyclists and cross-country skiers for its pretty views of the Credit River and neighbouring ravines; the vistas are especially spectacular in autumn. Birdwatchers and photographers will also love the inviting scenery. Playground equipment, picnic facilities and a toboggan hill make the park a great space for kids to burn off some energy. 1695 Dundas St. W., east of Mississauga Road.

Publication Date: 8/2008