Cullen. Gardens & Miniature allerL Village_ A day-long adventure You don't have to go far to find the perfect mini-vacation for the whole family. It's right here in Whitby at Cullen Gardens and Miniature Village. During Rose Festival, 1,200 rose bushes prove to not only brighten up the garden but send off a fragrance that's sure to please all visitors. Throughout the summer, enjoy the Festival of Flowers, the most spectacular annual flowcr show to be found. 14,000 annuals are planted in the floral peacock alone. In the topiary garden you'll recognize animal shapes that have been formed from different evergreens and shrubs. Adulhs and children alike will enjoy the magic of miniature as they tour the Miniature Village and Cottage Country set amid the colourful gardens. The miniatures at Cullen Gardens are 1/12-scale exact replicas of 180 existing century farms, shops, churches and homes in Southern Ontario. The trains run on a 200-ft. track and pick up customers regularly at the Whitby Station. There are 100 little cars and trucks and 1,000 little village people, many of them animated. Cottage Country includes a moving ferry boat that actually docks on schedule, moving motorboats, two more trains and a four-lane highway with cars. There are cottages, motels, resorts and the showstopper, Windermere Inn. Located in the valley, the Miniature Fair represents our local county fairs. The 'Flyer' is a replica of the old Canadian National Exhibition rollercoaster in Toronto, built to 1/12-scale. Pause for lunch or a mid-afternoon snack in the flower-filled Tea Room or the Whistle Stop Bakery and Solarium Café. During the aftemoon, you won't want to miss the musical revue fcaturing music through the decades. A new show, 'Let's go to the Movies,' is performed live later in the evening. If your visit should fall on a Thursday, you and the children will enjoy Kids' Days at Cullen Gardens, featuring Cullen Trivia, face-painting and magic kids' shows in place of the regular entertainment. You'll find a wide variety of souvenirs, giftware and candy in Granny's Emporium and the Loafing Barn. In the Whistle Stop Gift Shop and Bakery guests enjoy unique travel accessories, giftware and clothing. Rediscover Whitby's heritage when you tour the Lynde House Museum, designated an historical heritage building and located on the grounds. The Lynde House was built in 1812-1814 by Jabez Lynde, one of Whitby's first settlers. Originally located in Whitby, this building was moved to Cullen Gardens in 1986 and restored to look as it might have looked in 1856. Animated creations depict a typical day in the 1850s. Music and sound add to the atmosphere of this very unique museum. End your day with dinner in the Victorian-style Cullen Gardens Restaurant. Here guests enjoy fine dining, excellent food, great service and a wonderful view. Cullen Gardens and Miniature Village is the perfect place for that summer day trip or an autumn excursion during Apple Festival (don't forget the spooky haunted trail at Halloween). From November until January, Cullen Gardens presents the Festival of Lights with tens of thousands of twinkling sparkling lights. The main street of the village features a miniature Santa Claus Parade with animated floats. The Bethlehem Nativity is nestled in the valley and live stable animals are part of the scene. Of course, Santa Claus is in his corner to hear the secrets of the children. The Winter Carnival, starting after Christmas, features a magnificent light display, horse and sleigh rides, glowing bonfire and games for the kids. Any time of year is the right time to enjoy a fun-filled day for the whole family at Cullen Gardens and Miniature Village, located at 300 Taunton Rd. W., Whitby, telephone 668-6606. 14 Whitby Free Press, June 30, 1993