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Families Experience all Aspects of the Game at the "Hockey Hall of Fame"
Visiting The Hockey Hall of Fame in Toronto gives fans of
the game a glimpse into all aspects of the sport of hockey
from great moments and great players to behind the scenes
interactive exhibits.
A break in a very active hockey schedule afforded the
"Boys" (my husband and two sons) and myself, a bona fide
"Hockey Mom", time to have "So Much
Fun, You Won't Know What Hit Ya!" at the Hockey Hall of
Fame recently.
The various "Zones" created in the Hall of Fame give visitors insight into every
facet of this tremendously popular sport.
The Toronto Sun sponsored "Great Moments Zone"
highlights the history of the game through the pages of time
featuring those memorable moments that true fans will never
forget.
"Wayne Gretzky - The Legend" zone pays tribute to
what my kids and most hockey fans consider "The Greatest Hockey Player
Ever". The exhibit highlights "The Great
One" from his beginnings in hockey to his 61 NHL records,
memorabilia and career milestones.
A glimpse in to the history of the "Grand Ole' Houses
of Hockey" through artifacts, pictures and more bring
visitors up close to the past of the legendary sports
complexes that played host to the original six Hockey Clubs.
The full-scale reproduction Montreal Canadiens Dressing
room is the central display in the "Blockbuster Video
Dressing Room" Zone. Equipment, lockers, jerseys
look as if the room is ready for the players before a
game. Other behind the scenes exhibits capture the past
and present of "Before the Game".
TSN's Broadcast Zone is one of the Hall's most popular
interactive areas. Here hockey fans can put themselves
in the picture as a play-by-play announcer on some of hockey's
great moments then view the video playback.
Through to June 30, 2002, the Hartland Molson Theatre is
featuring "Make the Team", a film centering on the
trials and tribulations of training camp featuring the Ottawa
Senators Hockey Club with perspectives from players at various
stages of their career.
NHL Full Impact, part of the McDonald's Impact Zone, gives
everyone an opportunity to test their skills as a goalie
against two of hockey's greatest goal scorers, Wayne Gretzky
and Mark Messier or test their knowledge of hockey
trivia. This zone also pays tribute to some of hockey's
true heroes with displays and artifacts. Visitors can
also pick up a snack or beverage from McDonalds.
Located in the Coca-Cola Rink Zone, the
McDonald's Shootout Game offers another interactive experience
where fans can shoot on Goalies from different nations as well
as check the speed and accuracy of their shot. Seating
around this area is supplied by seats taken from the Original
Six arenas in the NHL.
If you have spent any time around the television
as a kid, had your children participate in minor hockey or just
love the game, the Household Family Zone is a must see
exhibit. Minor Hockey, where many of today's fans and
hockey legends began to learn the game and where many of today's
parents enjoy watching their children experience the game is depicted
in this area. A 1950's living room scene reveals a
timeless portrait of Saturday Night.
One of our visit highlights to the Hall was the
Ford North American Zone. Touch screen terminals let
guests access information on cities and towns across North
America that have submitted photos of local teams and
organizations to be added to the database for a nominal
fee. The thrill of seeing your child's face when his team
flashes on the screen is an unmatched joy to any parent and
certainly was to this "Hockey Mom". In addition,
Canadian Hockey League and Minor-Pro Hockey League exhibits
showcase US and Canadian teams and major awards.
International Hockey was the inspiration behind
the Royal Canadian Mint World of Hockey zone with mementos from
more than 90 years of tournaments and championships played in
various leagues throughout the world including Olympic games.
Archival Film footage is presented in the Esso
Theatre which is also used for special events at the Hockey Hall
of Fame.
When you enter the Worldcom Great Hall, housed
in the historical head office for the Bank of Montreal built in
1885, be sure to look up, way up at the incredible stained glass
dome. After that awe inspiring view, your breath will
again be taken away by the replica Stanley Club that bears the
presence of centre stage in the Great Hall. Portraits and
biographies of the Hall of Fame inductees and other trophies are
encased on this floor.
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A highlight of
any visit to the Hall is to have your picture taken with
the Cup and spend some time looking for your favourite
team engraved on this coveted prize. |
The last stop on the tour is a visit to the
"Spirit of Hockey" shop where authentic reproductions
of logos and sweaters, souvenirs and a complete selection of
hockey merchandise can be purchased.
The Hockey Hall of Fame located in Toronto is an
unparalleled must-do, see and experience for every fan, player
and "Hockey Family" that enjoys the Game.
For more information on the Hockey Hall of Fame go to Toronto Area Ontario Family Attractions.
For Hotel accommodations go to Toronto and Area Ontario Hotels and Resorts. |
