nice place to visit ontario

19 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Ontario

Written by Lana Law Updated May 3, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Author Lana Law grew up in Northwestern Ontario and currently lives in Southern Ontario.

Ontario is home to the nation's largest city, Toronto, and the capital city of Ottawa, but it also encompasses vast expanses of wilderness and pristine lakes and contains one of Canada's most visited natural attractions, Niagara Falls. This huge province, about 15 times larger than the state of Texas, offers boundless opportunities for travel, adventure, and family fun.

During the hot summer months , people visit Ontario to see some of Canada's top museums and galleries; spend family time at the amusement parks; relax at lakeside resorts; paddle or fish in the lakes and rivers; camp in the parks; and see some of the country's most iconic landmarks, like the CN Tower.

In winter , while some venture outdoors to enjoy the ski hills, skating rinks, snowmobiling, and winter festivals, most turn their attention indoors to hockey games, shopping, dining, Broadway shows, and other cultural attractions.

From small towns to big cities, this province can deliver whatever you're looking for in a vacation. Plan your trip and discover the best places to visit with our list of top tourist attractions in Ontario.

1. Niagara Falls

2. toronto's cn tower, 3. parliament hill in ottawa, 4. ontario's provincial and national parks, 5. royal ontario museum (rom), 6. canada's wonderland, 7. national gallery of canada, 8. toronto international film festival (tiff), 9. art gallery of ontario, 10. thousand islands, 11. fishing in northern ontario, 12. trent-severn waterway national historic site of canada, 13. muskoka and cottage country, 14. fort william historical park, 15. lake of the woods, 16. blue mountain resort, 17. stratford festival, 18. sainte-marie among the hurons, 19. rideau canal national historic site, map of tourist attractions in ontario.

Niagara Falls is Canada's most internationally recognized attraction, visited by millions of tourists each year. While there are actually three sets of falls, the largest section, known as Horseshoe Falls , drops approximately 57 meters, creating a great wall of water that stretches between Niagara Falls, Canada , and Niagara Falls, USA . The falls are famous primarily for the large volume of water flowing over them, but combined with the huge drop, they are truly a magnificent sight.

The falls are located right in the city of Niagara Falls, making them easy to visit. It's possible to walk down the main tourist strip in Niagara Falls, an outrageous spectacle in itself, to the edge of the gorge, where you'll find great views all along the walkway overlooking the river and the falls. Day trip tours can be easily arranged from hotels or hostels in Toronto. By car, the trip from Toronto takes about 1.5 hours.

The CN Tower is one of Canada's most iconic structures, standing tall along the Toronto skyline. The 553-meter tower is lit up at night and can be seen from all over the city and surroundings at any time of day or night, but visitors will likely want to take a trip up the tower to fully experience it.

An elevator allows access to the observation deck and restaurant , located about three-quarters of the way to the top. The view is astounding, looking out over the city and Lake Ontario. On clear days, it's possible to see all the way to the plume of mist rising off Niagara Falls . In the evening, looking out over the sparkling city lights is also an impressive sight.

Thrill seekers will want to give the EdgeWalk a try. Strapped in, you'll step outside the SkyPod, and spend 30 minutes strolling around the tower, 166 stories above the ground. It's not for the faint of heart or those afraid of heights but adrenaline junkies will be entirely in their element.

The tower is located in the heart of downtown Toronto, and at the base is the new Ripley's Aquarium and Rogers Centre , two of Toronto's top attractions .

Parliament Hill in the nation's capital is where most visitors begin their sightseeing in Ottawa . The buildings reside in a lovely setting on a rise above the Ottawa River. The Peace Tower is the most obvious and the most photographed structure, standing more than 90 meters high between the Senate and the House of Commons.

In front of the Parliament buildings is the Centennial Flame . During the summer, visitors can see the Changing of the Guard on the lawn in front of the Houses of Parliament, while those who are lucky enough to be visiting Ottawa on July 1 can enjoy some of the biggest Canada Day celebrations in the country.

Daily guided tours of the Parliament Buildings, including the Senate, House of Commons, and the East Block are available free of charge. Tickets are available same day, although it's strongly advised that you book well in advance online.

Ontario has many outstanding provincial and national parks that offer access to some of the most beautiful areas of the province. In these parks, you'll find Ontario's best lakes , where you can fish, swim, and go pleasure boating. If hitting the beach and laying in the sand is more your thing, the parks are also hot spots for Ontario's best beaches .

In Southern Ontario, just two hours from Toronto, Algonquin Provincial Park is one of the most popular parks and outdoor destinations, with an extensive network of hiking trails , and beautiful lakefront campgrounds . Further afield but equally beautiful, Killarney Provincial Park is another great area for hiking , canoeing, and camping .

On the shores of Lake Huron and Georgian Bay, Bruce Peninsula National Park offers its own attractions, and nearby but offshore, boaters and divers can find adventure exploring Georgian Bay Islands National Park and the Fathom Five National Marine Park .

You can also find history in some of the parks. The petroglyphs of Petroglyphs Provincial Park, just a short drive northeast of Peterborough, offer an easy and close-up look at an outstanding collection of 500 to 1,000-year-old Aboriginal rock carvings. Somewhat more difficult to access, but also impressive, are the pictographs that line the cliff walls on the shoreline of Lake Superior in Lake Superior Provincial Park .

Those who are looking for a truly remote experience will find invitingly pristine lakes and forests in Quetico Provincial Park in Northwestern Ontario. This is a popular area for backcountry canoe trips and fishing trips.

• Read More: Top-Rated Ontario Parks: Exploring Ontario's Great Outdoors

The Royal Ontario Museum in downtown Toronto is one of the premier museums in the province , featuring a broad range of collections, from natural history and science to cultural exhibits from around the world.

Commonly referred to as the ROM, this museum underwent an expansion in 2007, which saw the addition of a modern and unique extension known as the Michael Lee-Chin Crystal . The building is now a mix of old and new architecture with a striking appearance.

The Royal Ontario Museum is within walking distance of the fascinating Gardiner Museum and the tony shops of Bloor Avenue.

About 30 kilometers northwest of Toronto's city center is Canada's Wonderland , a huge theme park, which operates during the summer months . For local residents with kids, an annual visit to Canada's wonderland is one of the top things to do in summer. But, as Canada's premier amusement park, this attraction draws families from across the country.

Roller coasters and thrill rides for children of all ages, as well as a water park, dinosaur park, and live shows, are just some of the attractions. Canada's Wonderland is planning on opening two new rides in 2023: the Tundra Twister and Snoopy's Racing Railway .

Visiting Wonderland is an easy day trip from Toronto .

The National Gallery of Canada in Ottawa houses some of the country's most important collections. It contains a particularly strong selection of works by Canadian artists , from the Group of Seven to Emily Carr and many other famous names. The gallery also displays important pieces by well-known international artists.

The National Gallery building is housed in an ultra-modern architectural masterpiece designed by Moshe Safdie.

After you visit this fascinating museum, continue your museum tour by heading across the bridge to the Canadian Museum of History , or stroll over to the wonderful ByWard Market for a bite.

The Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) is the most famous event on Ontario's calendar, attracting some of the biggest movie stars across North America. This 10-day festival, held in early September in Toronto, is one of the best-attended film festivals in the world , with almost a half million visitors annually.

Tourists and locals descend on the city to watch a film or catch a glimpse of some of their favorite actors, and the city is a buzz of activity. At this time of year, the weather is still hot, and evenings are pleasant. The streets are full of people, restaurants are booked well in advance, and outdoor patios in the city are crowded until late at night. If you are visiting Toronto at this time of year, make sure you book your hotel and restaurants well in advance.

In downtown Toronto, the Art Gallery of Ontario (AGO) is one of Canada's most prestigious art galleries. It hosts a particularly impressive collection of Canadian paintings with a focus on artists from Ontario and Toronto. It also holds Canada's largest collection of African and Oceanic Art displayed in a museum.

Other highlights include paintings and sculptures by European masters and Modern and Contemporary collections from North America and Europe. Temporary exhibitions are held throughout the year, check the AGO's website for the most current list.

Spread over an 80-kilometer stretch of the St. Lawrence River is a scenic natural area known as the Thousand Islands. The islands are on a granite shelf extending from the Canadian Shield to the Adirondack Mountains in the United States, with the US-Canada boundary actually running between the islands. It is one of the oldest and best-known holiday areas in Ontario , popular with cottagers, boaters, and those looking to get away from the cities of Southern Ontario during the hot summer months.

One of the most popular things to do in this area is a Thousand Islands Sunset Dinner Cruise through the maze of islands. Cruises run from mid-April to mid-October.

Gananoque is the principal resort town in the area and the main gateway to the Thousand Islands.

Northern Ontario is one of the best places in Canada for fishing. Walleye, pickerel, bass, northern pike, and muskies are some of the most sought-after catches, and people from all over North America come here to try their luck. And you don't have to be all that lucky if you know where to go.

Fishing lodges in Ontario range from luxury resorts to rustic cottages, but most offer everything you need to make your trip a success, including boats, guides, meals, and cabins. The best fishing is often found on remote northern lakes , and accessed by small float planes. Resorts either offer fly-in packages or, in some cases, boat pickup. You can also find a number of good drive-to resorts.

The historic Trent-Severn Canal, built in the late 1800s and early 1900s, is a system of waterways linking Lake Ontario with Georgian Bay on Lake Huron . The canal winds its way through a series of rivers and lakes, such as the Trent River and Lake Simcoe, in the east of Ontario. The changing levels are met with more than 40 locks, including the world's highest hoist , built in 1905 at Peterborough, covering a height of 20 meters.

In the past, the canal was mainly used for carrying grain and timber, but today, the Trent-Severn Waterway is a part of Parks Canada and is officially called the Trent-Severn Waterway National Historic Site of Canada . It is used largely for tourism and recreational boaters. At some of the locks, there are camping facilities and grassy areas for picnics.

A great way to experience the Trent-Severn Waterway is on a Kawartha Voyageur Cruise. These multiday cruises allow you to see the sights and the locks at a leisurely pace, by basking on the sundeck or stopping at various ports,

One of Ontario's most famous summer hot spots is an area known as Cottage Country or Muskoka. Located north of Toronto, this region is centered around Lake Muskoka and a number of other popular lakes in the area.

Although you can find areas of equal beauty all over Ontario, this region's proximity to the city, just two to three hours from Toronto, has made it extremely popular. The lakes are surrounded by high-end cottages and summer homes of Torontonians. On weekends, the highways to Cottage Country are clogged with traffic as people flee the heat of the city, to relax around the lakes.

This is also a fun area to visit, with many people renting cottages here or staying at luxury resorts. There are a number of small communities in Cottage Country, although the primary town is Gravenhurst , located on the shores of Lake Muskoka. From here, visitors can hop on historical steamships for a short cruise and tour of the lake.

Fort William Historical Park is the reconstruction of the inland headquarters operated by the Northwest Company of the Canadian fur trade from 1803 to 1821. Situated on the banks of the Kaministiquia River in south Thunder Bay , the Fort comprises 57 buildings on 250 acres.

Each summer, fur traders, voyageurs, and first nations people would converge upon the Fort for the annual "rendezvous," which saw the transfer of tons of furs coming in from western posts with trade goods coming from Montreal, all conveyed by birch bark canoes within one season. This system enabled the Nor'Westers to emerge as a dominant force in the fur trade.

The Fort offers a fascinating looking at fur trade life, touching upon themes from furs and food to muskets and medicine, and highlighting a cultural mosaic of Scottish fur traders, French Canadian voyageurs, farmers and artisans, and aboriginals and Métis.

The park is not all about the fur trade, though. On the same grounds is the David Thompson Astronomical Observatory (DTAO) . The observatory is home to one of Canada's largest public telescopes.

To discover Ontario's remote wilderness landscapes, one of the best places to visit is Lake of the Woods and the surrounding areas. This huge body of water lies on the lightly populated provincial borders of Manitoba and Ontario and also dips into the state of Minnesota . This beautiful lake provides an incredibly scenic setting and pristine wilderness experience for those interested in venturing into the backcountry.

Many people have cottages on Lake of the Woods, but its distance from major cities and the size of the lake mean cottages are few and far between. It is also a prime destination for tourists who come to Canada to go on fishing trips .

Lake of the Woods provides excellent opportunities for boating, fishing, and simply escaping into the Canadian wilderness . Islands fringe the heavily indented Canadian north shore, while the south shore is flat, sandy, and marshy in places. Beginning in 1688, the lake provided trappers and voyageurs with a passage westwards.

The main town on Lake of the Woods is Kenora , Ontario. This is where you can find lodging, plan charter flights, hire fishing guides, and get supplies.

Blue Mountain Resort , just outside the town of Collingwood , on the shores of Georgian Bay, is one of the most popular ski resorts in Ontario. Blue Mountain Village, at the base of the hill, features fine-dining restaurants, top-end shops, and first-class accommodations. The hill itself is family oriented and extremely popular with Torontonians.

The resort is open year-round and almost as busy in summer as it is in winter, with activities that range from rock climbing and ziplining to mountain biking and hiking.

William Shakespeare would be proud of the fine folks who live in Stratford who, each summer, put on an incredible internationally renowned summer festival celebrating his works. Stratford is just 60 kilometers northeast of London , Ontario, and draws particularly large crowds from the Toronto area.

The 2,250-seat Festival Theatre has been staging plays between May and October since 1953, with pride of place going to Shakespeare. There are now four theater venues, and plays by other famous writers, along with up-and-coming playwrights, are also presented. Most seasons, at least 12 productions are performed at the Stratford Festival .

The reconstruction of the mission station of Sainte-Marie among the Hurons is about five kilometers east of Midland on the Wye River. It was founded by the Jesuits in 1639 and served as a mainstay for 10 years for Europeans in "Wendat," the land of the Huron. As time went by, there was constant conflict with the Hurons, who were also decimated by diseases imported by the Europeans. In 1649, the Jesuits abandoned their settlement and returned to Québec.

The mission was reconstructed in the 1960s and was later designated a national monument. Today, it's open to visitors daily from May to October, and provides an excellent opportunity to learn about the history of the station and pioneer life in Canada.

Nearby and also worth visiting for more period history is Discovery Harbour. Here, you'll see two restored sailing ships: The H.M.S. Bee and the H.M.S. Tecumseth . In addition to the ships, historical maritime homes can be toured. These include the Sailor's Barracks, the Commander's Home, the Assistant Surgeon's House, the Surveyor's Home, the Keating House, and the Officer's Quarters.

One of Canada's most famous man-made waterways, the Rideau Canal is a must-see when visiting Ottawa. This UNESCO World Heritage Site dates from the early 19th century and has been meticulously maintained over the years and appears much as it did when it was first built.

Stroll along the pathways on either side and watch the boats pass through the locks. A popular thing to do in Ottawa is to take a Rideau Canal cruise . This 90-minute tour takes place on a 100 percent electric-powered passenger vessel and passes all the city's top sights, including the Château Laurier , National Arts Centre , and the Canadian Museum of Nature .

If you find yourself in Ottawa in the winter, be sure to rent some skates and try out the world's largest skating rink. Each winter, in January, the Rideau Canal is transformed into a 7.8-kilometer-long skating route. Along the way are warming huts and food vendors selling the iconic (and super tasty!) Beavertails.

More Related Articles on PlanetWare.com

Canada Adventures: Make Ontario part of your larger trip through Canada. For ideas on how to incorporate Ontario into your plans, see our Canadian itineraries . Another great resource is our list of best places to visit in Canada , which gives a good overview of cities and destinations across the country.

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75 Best Places To Visit In Ontario (2023): Top Attractions

• April 12, 2023
• Sandy Waters

If you are a tourist, or you live in Ontario and are looking for an awesome local experience, this roundup of the top 75 Best Places To Visit In Ontario is your guide to the top attractions in Ontario.

You’ll find suggestions on all the best things to do in Ontario from sight seeing to restaurants to hotels and spas you can stay at.

Your friends at theBOO included iconic landmarks such as the CN Tower as well as cultural experiences like walking through Toronto’s historical Chinatown or getting in touch with nature at one of Ontario’s famous parks .

We also included some local secrets like Eagle Canyon and  Langdon Hall.

Read on or jump to the section you are most interested in!

Best Places To Visit In Ontario

Here is our list of the best places to visit in Ontario for 2023:

Ontario Architecture

1) cn tower.

The CN Tower is one of the most iconic landmarks in all of Canada.

It is 1,815 ft tall and features a restaurant, observation tower, glass floor and the EdgeWalk , where visitors get to walk around the outside of the tower.

The CN Tower was the world’s tallest freestanding building for 32 years (1975-2007) until it was surpassed by the Burj Khalifa and then the Canton Tower .

2) Casa Loma

Casa Loma was built in 1914 by Sir Henry Pellatt and is now owned by the city of Toronto.

Each year 650,000+ people visit the grounds to enjoy this stunning Gothic Revival mansion (that is more like a castle).

There is even a vintage car exhibition featuring cars made from 1910-1929.

3) Parliament Hill

Home of the Parliament of Canada, Parliament Hill (aka The Hill) was originally a military base due to its strategic location on the Ottawa River.

If you stand at the top of the hill you can look into Quebec which is on the other side of the river.

Parliament Hill features historic monuments of famous Canadians dating back to the late 1800’s. It also has a number of other monuments including the Centennial Flame, War of 1812 monument and Canadian Police and Peace Officers’ Memorial.

4) Distillery District

The Distillery District is located in the South East corner of Toronto where the Don River flows into Lake Ontario.

It officially opened in 2003 and features an inspired mix of Victorian Industrial architecture and modern design principles.

The shops, cafes, restaurants are lined by cobblestone side streets that make you feel like you’ve stepped back in time.

Natural wonders

5) flowerpot island.

Flowerpot Island is located 6.5 km off the coast of Tobermory (nearly half way between Toronto and Sudbury) and is a truly fascinating example of Canadian geography.

The island is famous for the natural rock pillars, called “flowerpots” that are wider at the top of the formation that the bottom which creates a seemingly impossible monument to Mother Earth .

The island is only reachable by boat so book with the Blue Heron Company or Bruce Anchor Cruises .

Check out this amazing video of Flowerpot Island by Bruce Anchor Cruises

6) Horseshoe falls

The largest of the 3 Niagara Falls is Horseshoe Falls (aka Canadian Falls).

Horseshoe falls is not the tallest waterfall in North America but it does have the highest flow rate  which creates immense hydroelectric power.

Stay at the Hilton Niagara Falls / Fallsview Hotel which features breathtaking views of the falls.

7) Magnetawan river

This river starts inside Algonquin Park and empties into Georgian Bay and is one of the best rivers to canoe on in Ontario for adventurous trippers .

The river features many rapids and the name of the river means “swiftly flowing waters” in the Ojibwe language.

8) French river

The French River is a Canadian Heritage River and is considered the dividing line between Northern and Southern Ontario.

It flows through French River Provincial Park and winds through the enormous Canadian Shield which makes for stunning landscape scenery.

9) 1,000 islands

A visit to the 1,000 Islands is worth the drive from Toronto, past Kingston and into Gananoque (3 hours by car) to experience this North American archipelago.

Lavish homes and castles, built in the 1800s and 1900s for prominent families in both Canada and America , still populate this historic part of Ontario.

There is even a bridge that connects Ontario to New York State called the Thousand Islands Bridge.

Here is an amazing old postcard from the American side of the 1,000 Islands:

10) Hamilton waterfalls

Hamilton, Ontario is home to 100+ waterfalls and many are found just minutes from the downtown core.

Check out this amazing Hamilton Waterfalls Guide from Tourism Hamilton .

You can get to most waterfalls by hiking the Bruce Trail (Canada’s oldest and longest footpath) which stretches all the way from Tobermory in the North all the way down to Niagara.

11) Cheltenham badlands

In Caledon, Ontario you will find the Cheltenham Badlands  which is one of the best examples of “Badlands Topography” within Ontario.

Badlands are a geological wonder and occur on every continent except Antarctica.

Another famous badlands is in Alberta and is home to Dinosaur Provincial Park.

12) Kakabeka falls

Kakabeka Falls is the second highest waterfall in Ontario and is located 30 km west of Thunder Bay .

Along with stunning views of Northern Ontario wilderness, you can find 1.6 million year old fossils at the bottom of the waterfall.

Source |  CC BY-SA 3.0

13) Rockwood conservation

The Rockwood Conservation Area is near Guelph, Ontario and features an amazing mix of caves, hiking trails, ruins and the Eramosa River.

Admission is only $7.50 and the park is open year round with camping allowed from May 1 to October 15.

If you are a nature lover this is a top destination for day hiking in southwestern Ontario.

Ontario Culture

14) toronto’s chinatown.

Toronto has one of the largest Chinatowns in North America  and it is one of the best places to visit in Ontario to experience the friendly multicultural city of Toronto. It is very central to the city so you can start your walking tour here at the corner of Spadina and Dundas.

If you are serious about urban exploration and into Chinese cuisine then take a look at this article from the Local Toronto City Blog.

15) Theatre in Stratford

Stratford, Ontario is home to the Stratford Festival which is an epic theatre experience that attracts top talent from all over the world.

The festival runs from April to October with all types of events like music concerts, plays, author readings, and actor meet and greets.

Fun fact : the Toronto Film Festival was originally the Stratford Film Festival.

16) Wiarton Willie

Wiarton Willie is the Canadian version of Punxsutawney Phil and lives in Wiarton, Ontario.

Groundhog Day (Feb 2) is a major celebration in Wiarton and features dances, parades and quintessential Canadian ice hockey tournaments and curling bonspiels.

17) The Big Nickel

The Big Nickel is a 9 metre Canadian nickel replica located in Sudbury, Ontario.

You can see the Big Nickel at Science North (the Sudbury Science Centre) if you decide to visit the largest city in Northern Ontario by population.

18) Royal Ontario Museum

The Royal Ontario Museum (the ROM as locals say) is one of the largest museums in North America and attracts more than 2 million visitors annually.

The ROM features multiple dinosaur skeletons including an unbelievable T.Rex fossil skeleton.

Friday Night Live at the ROM is an adult museum experience with great food and drink.

Get your tickets here

19) Bridle Path

Toronto’s bridle path is the most luxurious neighbourhood in Toronto where celebrities like Drake, Elton John, Margaret Thatcher and Robert Herjavec have owned homes.

You can take the TTC (Toronto’s subway system) up to North York to explore “Millionaire’s Row”.

20) Art Gallery of Ontario

The Art Gallery of Ontario is home to more than 100 thousand   pieces of art.

The gallery itself is a work of architectural art and the Galleria Italia , a giant wood projecting canopy used as a viewing hall, is worth the price of admission.

Famous Canadian art collective, the Group of Seven , has a permanent collection of paintings here.

21) Canadian Automotive Museum

The Canadian Automotive Museum is located in Oshawa, Ontario and opened its doors to the public in 1963.

The car collection dates back to the early 1900s and features an eclectic mix of Canadian, America, British and European cars.

Tickets to the museum can be purchased here and start at $14.00 for an adult, $6.00 for a youth (ages 6-17) and free for ages 5 and under.

22) Kitchener-Waterloo Oktoberfest

If the thought of giant beer mugs, lederhosen , and unlimited Bratwurst tickle your fancy then you definitely want to check out the second largest Oktoberfest in the world hosted by the twin cities of Kitchener and Waterloo.

The largest Oktoberfest is held in Munich, Germany where over 6 million people gather each year to drink nearly 8 million litres of beer . The second largest is in Kitchener-Waterloo and attracts just under 1 million visitors every year.

23) Hockey Hall of Fame

The sport of hockey is as Canadian as a maple syrup covered beaver (please do not try to create this at home) and the Hockey Hall of Fame is the house of hockey.

It is home to the stanley cup, tons of hockey memorabilia, interactive games and exhibits and is responsible for honouring the legends of the sport.

It is located downtown Toronto and accessible by public transportation.

24) Canadian Forces Museum of Aerospace Defense

Located in North Bay, Ontario the Canadian Forces Museum of Aerospace Defense is an interesting place to visit to learn about advances in air and space technology and defense.

Here, you’ll find information on NORAD , the risk of “space junk”, WW1 and WW2 airplanes, and even a Zeppelin exhibit.

25) Canada’s Wonderland

Canada’s largest theme park is located just north of Toronto in Vaughan, Ontario and is a fun-filled mix of roller coasters, a waterpark, and seasonal events like Halloween Haunt and WinterFest.

If you are a thrill-seeking family then you need to go for a ride on Yukon Striker – the world’s tallest, fastest and longest dive coaster.

26) Ontario Science Centre

Science education is an important part of general knowledge and the Ontario Science Centre is a mecha of scientific exhibition.

Here, kids and adults alike can learn about physics, the Ice Age, the animal kingdom, biology, chemistry and much more.

It is an interactive experience featuring an IMAX Dome with sensational video exhibits, live experiments and friendly, educated staff that help make your visit both educational and enjoyable.

27) Calypso Waterpark

Looking to cool down in the summer heat? Then Canada’s largest wave pool at Calypso is the place to be.

Check out Calypso to enjoy:

• Water slides
• Lazy rivers
• Kids splash area

It is located 35 km east of Ottawa in Limoges, Ontario and covers over 100-acres water features and attractions.

28) Eagle Canyon

Head north to Thunder Bay, Ontario and discover Canada’s biggest zip line and longest suspension footbridge at Eagle Canyon Adventures.

They are open from May 1 to October 15 and have hiking trails, a picnic area and scenic vistas for less adventurous explorers.

29) Ctrl V – Virtual Reality Arcade

The future of gaming entertainment can be found at Ctrl V .

Canada’s first virtual reality arcade is located in Waterloo, Ontario and features cutting edge VR technology that makes visitors feel like they have stepped into  Ready Player One.  They also now have an arcade in Cambridge, Ontario.

Hotels and spas

30) ste. anne’s spa.

Pamper yourself at one of Ontario’s best all-inclusive destination spas .

St. Anne’s Spa is a heritage country castle that has been renovated into a modern and luxurious health and wellness spa. It is located in Grafton, Ontario and the property is set on rolling hills with a stunning view of Lake Ontario.

Check out one of their overnight spa packages or book a day trip to begin your rejuvenating self-care retreat.

31) Blue Mountain Resort

Ontario is not known for having great skiing when you compare it to other Canadian provinces like Alberta or British Columbia but Blue Mountain Resort in Collingwood (near Barrie, Ontario) the best place to go if you are looking for a ski village vibe in Ontario.

Also, you can visit Blue Mountain in both the summer and winter seasons.

Winter activities include:

• Snowboarding
• Snowshoeing
• Cross-country skiing

and, summer activities include:

• Downhill biking

Book a room at the Westin Trillium House (a Marriott Hotel) if you want to experience the natural wonders in comfort and luxury.

32) Elora Mill Hotel and Spa

Located in beautiful Fergus, Ontario – the Elora Mill Hotel and Spa is a unique experience that you won’t find anywhere else.

The modern facilities are perched atop the thundering Elora Gorge and offer an intimate experience in nature. The Hotel only has 27 guest rooms so it never feels too busy.

Book your trip here

33) Shangri-La Hotel

If you are staying overnight in Toronto, and you have a big budget , you absolutely must check out the Shangri-La Hotel in one of Toronto’s tallest buildings.

The rooms are exquisite and the hotel has an indoor pool with views of the Toronto skyline that you can see through a glass roof.

The hotel has a health club with a gym, fitness studio and classes, sauna and steam room.

35) Hotel X

Hotel X is Toronto’s newest luxury hotel and is a modern take on outstanding hospitality.

Have you ever wanted to play indoor tennis with a skyline view or or swim in an indoor/outdoor rooftop pool? Because, they have both.

Every detail is fine tuned, down to the bathroom products (which are L’Occitane products).

The hotel is minutes from downtown Toronto and set in the famous Exhibition Place complex.

35) Fairmont Chateau Laurier

This Fairmont hotel is one of Canada’s most recognizable landmarks and is built to look like a Renaissance-era French chateau.

It is located in the downtown core of Ottawa and is walking distance to most of the top visitor locations in the city.

The architecture is so awe inspiring that the hotel was designated as a National Historic Site of Canada.

Food and drink

36) wayne gretzky estates.

Wayne “The Great One” Gretzky created this namesake winery and it is a top destination in Ontario for wine lovers.

Wayne and his team have created an experience to rival the even the great California vineyards.

The wine selection is very approachable and easy on the palate and the estate also has a whisky bar and distillery.

The food is fantastic and you can even book a private group tasting for up to 10 people for $20 per person.

37) Dinner at Canoe

Rated #6 on the Canada’s 100 Best restaurant list.

Canoe is an Oliver and Bonacini restaurant that serves the finest Canadian food products with a modern twist.

Set on the 54th floor of the TD Centre with views of Toronto and Lake Ontario, the views will leave you  breathless while you enjoy some of the best food in Ontario.

38) Peller Estates

The Peller family has poured their heart and soul into building one of Ontario’s premium wineries.

Peller Estates has been a driving force behind the development of the growing wine movement in Canada.

The team here makes every guest feel like family and they offer expert guided tours of the property while educating visitors about the wine making process.

39) Labatt Brewery Tour

Labatt has been brewing beer in Canada since 1847 and produces nearly 350 million bottles of beer annually.

You can take a guided tour to learn how Canadian beer is made which takes about 2 hours.

The tour is at their London, Ontario brewery and you must pre-book by email (email: [email protected]).  The cost is only $12 per person and all guests must make sure they have closed, flat footwear.

Check out this amazing guide to the best things to do in London Ontario for more great ideas.

40) Steam Whistle Brewery Tour

Visit “The Roundhouse” for a special tour of Toronto’s famous beer company Steam Whistle’s property.

There is a Munich-inspired biergarten, an indoor event space,  and a guided tour of the brewer’s operations.

41) Lunch at Supply & Demand

Supply and Demand, in Ottawa, is a family owned restaurant that features locally grown foods.

They use sustainable ingredients and focus on vibrant raw bar dishes and vegetable-focused small plates.

The menu changes to fit the seasonal supply of local farmers.

42) Dinner at Langdon Hall

Built in 1898, Langdon Hall has a hotel, spa, restaurant and 75 acres of well groomed wilderness to explore.

Dinner at Langdon Hall is a real event, and even has a dress code (jacket preferred and no denim, shorts or sportswear).

The restaurant is rated #4 on the Canada’s 100 Best restaurant list and each dish is prepared in a manner befitting the storied terroir of Langdon Hall.

43) Glen Abbey Golf

The course at Glen Abbey was designed by the legend of golf Jack Nicklaus.

It has hosted a PGA Tour even (RBC Canadian Open) and is consistently ranked a top golf course in Canada.

It is located in Oakville, Ontario and is the home of both Golf Canada as well as the Canadian Golf Hall of Fame.

44) TPC Toronto at Osprey Valley

Originally just called Osprey Valley, the now “TPC Toronto” is actually 3 courses (Heathlands, Hoot and North) and all 3 are top ranked courses with a distinct feel.

The course is always in excellent condition due to the expert greenkeeping and maintenance staff.

Renowned architect Doug Carrick is responsible for the design of each course and he has expertly created a memorable golf experience that fits naturally into the iconic Ontario geography.

45) Hamilton Golf Club

Hamilton is located in Ancaster, Ontario and has consistently been one of the best parkland courses in North America for 100+ years.

The course sits along the edge of the Niagara Escarpment and is actually one of the oldest courses in the country.

It is a private club so you’ll need an invite to play here.

46) Cobble Beach

Doug Carrick brought his expert golf course craftsmanship to Owen Sound, Ontario and helped bring Cobble Beach to life.

This golf course is situated on the shores of Georgian Bay and has incredible views that you might not otherwise find unless you were in Nantucket.

Legendary California golf course, Pebble Beach Golf Links , is the inspiration from this course and we have to say that Cobble Beach might even outshine its muse.

Tour a University Campus

47) university of toronto.

UofT is a top university in the world and is located centrally in Toronto.

Here you can see spectacular examples of Neoclassical, Gothic, Romanesque and Norman architecture.

Walking around UofT sometimes make you feel like you are exploring Hogwarts .

48) Richard Ivey Building at Western University

The Richard Ivey School of Business is a top ranked business program in the world.

The new and architecturally stunning Richard Ivey Building is LEED Gold sustainable and contains 15 78-seat classrooms and 5 50-seat classrooms.

The 640-seat auditorium (BMO auditorium) features state of the art communications technology.

49) Osgoode Hall

Osgoode Hall was built in 1832 and is a central landmark in Toronto.

Part of York University, Osgoode Hall is one of the top ranked law schools in Canada.

The grand architecture and grounds house the Great Library of the Law Society of Ontario .

50) University of Ottawa

Located downtown Ottawa, uOttawa is the largest English-French bilingual university in the world and offers a diverse set of academic programs.

On campus you’ll find free bicycle rentals, a community garden and even a living wall.

Set on 105 acres of land, the university has 30 main building, 806 research laboratories and enrolls over 35,000 undergraduate students.

Sporting events

51) hockey – ottawa senators.

The Ottawa Senators home arena is Canadian Tire Centre and the team is one of two (the Toronto Maple Leafs being the other) hockey teams in Ontario.

Although not one of the “Original 6” NHL team, the Sens have been around since 1883.

52) Canadian Football – Hamilton Tiger-Cats

3/6 Canadian Football League (CFL) teams are in Ontario and the team with the wildest fan base is surely the Hamilton Tiger-Cats.

The team plays at Tim Hortons Field and they have won 8 Grey Cups.

Fun fact: the Tiger-Cats are the only CFL team to ever defeat a current NFL team

53) Basketball – Toronto Raptors

Canada’s only current NBA team are the Toronto Raptors who play at Scotiabank Arena, along with the Toronto Maple Leafs.

The Raptors won the NBA championship in 2019 with Kawhi Leonard and Kyle Lowry leading the team to their first ever world championship.

The Raptors Fan base is incredibly passionate and watching a game at the Scotiabank Arena is an electrifying experience.

54) Soccer (Football) – Toronto FC

Toronto’s Major League Soccer (MLS) team plays at BMO Field in the Exhibition Place by Lake Ontario.

Toronto FC is the first Canadian team to win the MLS cup and their home arena is the largest soccer-specific stadium in Canada.

The Toronto FC fan base is truly incredible and are known throughout the MLS. Some of their supporters groups are the REd Patch Boys, U-Sector and Original 109. Try and get a seat in one of their sections for a nearly European soccer experience.

55) Baseball – Toronto Blue Jays

If you feel like watching baseball in Ontario then you have to catch a Toronto Blue Jays game at Rogers Centre.

Originally named the “SkyDome” Rogers Centre is an engineering marvel and was the first stadium to ever have a fully retractable motorized roof.

If you do attend a game, make sure to take part in the famous 7th inning stretch where you will sind “OK Blue Jays” before singing “Take Me Out To The Ball Game”.

Places To Visit In Summer

56) spend time at the lake.

Summer in Ontario is best spent at the lake in one of the many “cottage countries” like Muskoka, Kawartha, Haliburton or Georgian Bay.

Check out some of the top luxury Muskoka resorts here

There are tons of cottage rental websites as well as Airbnb rentals to choose from.

Make sure that you don’t leave at “rush hour” if you are planning to get to the cottage as the 400 Highway can get extremely congested.

57) Visit Toronto Island

Hop on a ferry and head over to the Toronto Island Park for a day of sun filled fun with the family.

Visit one of the many beaches, go sailing, take a bicycle or check out Centreville Amusement park.

58) Tour Niagara-On-The-Lake

A visit to Niagara-On-The-Lake Heritage District is like stepping back in time.

The food and drink scene is bustling with many different restaurants and wineries in the area.

59) Andrews Scenic Acres

All 165 acres of Andrews Scenic Acres is located in Milton, Ontario (part of Halton Hills) and is full of strawberries, blueberries, pumpkins, squash, raspberries and other produce that you can pick and bring home.

Visit the farm and disconnect from your devices while reconnecting with the earth. 2 hours at Andrews Scenic Acres is like a week at the spa for the soul.

There is even a winery here where they make award winning fruit wines.

Check out this awesome review by Christopher Rudder at Roadtrip Ontario.

60) Grand Bend

Grand Bend is a bustling Ontario beach located on the shore of Lake Huron (one of the Great Lakes).

There are tons of activities that you can to at Grand Bend like parasailing, jet skiing, parachuting, swimming (the water quality has Blue Flag status) and sunbathing.

The area sports an assortment of unique accommodations to stay at overnight.

61) Canatara Beach

Canatara also has Blue Flag status and is located in Canatara Park which is the largest park in Sarnia, Ontario.

In addition to spending time at the beach you can check out nearby attractions like the Stones N’ Bones Museum or the Judith & Norman Alix Art Gallery.

62) Wasaga Beach

Part of the longest freshwater beach in the world, Wasaga Beach is a popular beach for people living in the GTA to visit on weekends.

It is located north west of Barrie, Ontario on the southern part of Georgian Bay.

If you get the need to stretch your legs you can take on one of the hiking trails nearby.

63) Go For a Bike Ride

Ontario has some of the best cycling routes in North America.

Check out this awesome guide from Ontario By Bike to plan your route.

64) Canoe trip

Head to an outfitter to rent a canoe, paddles, tent, cooking tools and a backpack before embarking on a thrilling canoe trip in Ontario.

Here is a list of our Top 5 Canoe Routes in Ontario :

• Madawaska River (Intermediate, Whitewater)
• Algonquin Park (Beginner, Flatwater)
• Killarney Park (Beginner, Flatwater)
• Petawawa River (Intermediate, Whitewater)
• French River (Beginner, Whitewater)

Canoeing plays an important part in Canadian history and culture. It is great exercise and the best way to explore Ontario’s legendary provincial parks.

Places To Visit In Winter

65) skate on the rideau canal.

The Rideau Canal (a World Heritage Site) is a 202 km long waterway that connects Ottawa to both Lake Ontario and the Saint Lawrence River.

When the river freezes it turns into the world’s largest skating rink.

Usually open from January to March, the canal is open 24 hours a day for skaters of all ages to enjoy.

66) Ski at Mount St. Louis Moonstone

Mount St. Louis is dedicated to offering the best skiing and snowboarding in Ontario and is located less than 2 hours from Toronto by car.

It has 36 different runs and is serviced by 8 chair lifts.

At Mount St. Louis Moonstone – skiing runs in the family. The resort has been family owned since 1964 when it was founded by Austrian alpine skier Josl Huter.

67) See The Northern Lights

If you are looking for cosmic, spiritual inspiration then you need to plan to see one of the 7 Natural Wonders of the World – the Northern Lights.

The best time of year to see the Northern Lights is around the equinoxes (March and September) and usually between 5PM and 2AM.

You can only see the Northern Lights from certain places in the world like Alaska, Iceland, Norway, Sweden and Northern Canada. Head up to Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario for a great chance to see the lights.

68) Festival of Lights

Head to Niagara Falls, Ontario from November 13-Feb 21 to check out the enchanting Winter Festival of Lights.

It is Canada’s largest free outdoor light festival and even features a giant 3D moose!

Ontario Parks

69) algonquin park.

Algonquin Provincial Park is the oldest and most popular provincial park in Canada.

It is host to many summer camps, canoe routes, and over 1,200 individual campsites.

You can fish in any of the many lakes as long as you have a valid Ontario fishing license.

There is even a direct bus shuttle from Toronto .

70) Killarney Park

Killarney Park is unmatched in geological wonder compared to other parks in Ontario.

Here you will find pink granite and white quartz peaks jutting out along the tree line.

If you do not want to camp then you should stay at the Killarney Mountain Lodge for a luxurious yet rustic vacation.

71) Bruce Peninsula National Park

Black bears and other wildlife call this ancient cedar tree lined National Park their home.

If you visit the area then you should also check out Fathom Five National Marine Park which has some amazing scuba diving sites.

72) Montebello Park

While not a national or provincial park, Montebello Park is fascinating because it has a giant rose garden with over 1,300 rose bushes in 25 varieties.

This park, which was designed by the same man who d esigned New York City’s Central Park is in St. Catherines, Ontario.

73) Budweiser Stage

This concert venue is located at Ontario Place in Toronto and has hosted performances by top artists across a variety of music genres.

Catch a concert by the lake by booking a ticket online with Live Nation.

74) Rebel Nightclub

For a big night out there is no better venue in Ontario than Rebel Night Club.

Located on Lake Ontario at Polson Pier, clubbers can start their day at the European inspired Cabana Pool Bar before changing and heading into Rebel for an unforgettable sensory experience.

75) Boots and Hearts

Boots and Hearts is a country themed music festival held in Oro-Medonte, Ontario every year.

It is Canada’s largest camping country music festival and has won multiple “Festival of the Year” awards from the Canadian Country Music Association.

Whew – you made it to the end of the list!

In summary, Ontario has something to offer everyone from tourists to locals looking for an amazing experience within driving distance of home.

Like this list? Share it with a friend or bookmark it for later!

We hope you loved this year’s 75 Best Places To Visit In Ontario  and be sure to let us know if you think we are missing anything from the list.

– theBOO

Table of Contents

• Destinations

25 Best Places to Visit in Ontario, Canada

Last Updated By VI on March 15, 2024 in Things to Do in Canada & Places to Visit , Map

Niagara Falls

• Complete List & Map

The capital of Canada, Ottawa is located in southeast Ontario, near the U.S. border and neighboring city of Montreal. Situated along the shimmering Ottawa River, the city boasts marvelous Victorian architecture and world-renowned museums that include the National Gallery of Canada. During the summer, the park-lined Rideau Canal is overflowing with boats; during the winter however, visitors will find plenty of ice-skaters taking advantage of the frozen conditions. One of Ottawa’s top attractions is its legislature complex, better known as Parliament Hill. Located on Crown land, The Hill is a magnificent display of Gothic revival architecture. From Winterlude to the Canadian Tulip Festival to Canada Day, Ottawa is a vibrant city with much to celebrate.

Niagara Falls is a regional municipality of Southeastern Ontario, Canada. The city serves as a central port along the Niagara River, opposite its United States counterpart, New York. The city also overlooks the Horseshoe, sometimes referred to as the Canadian Falls; a crescent-shaped cataract measuring 177 feet in height. This portion of the falls carries approximately nine times the amount of water that the United States side does. The two countries are connected by several bridges that include the Lewiston-Queenston Bridge, the Whirlpool Rapids Bridge, and the Rainbow Bridge. Niagara Falls offers a myriad of fascinating attractions, such as Queen Victoria Park, the Skylon Tower, and Niagara Parks Botanical Gardens.

Hamilton is an industrialized port city located along the west end of Lake Ontario in the Canadian province of Ontario. It boasts impressive dramatic architecture, gorgeous parks, and several magnificent historical sites. This includes the Royal Botanical Gardens, the HMCS Haida National Historic Site, Dunduen Castle and the Canadian Warplane Heritage Museum. Popular attractions include the African Lion Safari Park, the Art Gallery of Hamilton, the Canadian Football Hall of Fame, and the Cathedral of Christ the King. It is home to several also home charming and vibrant neighborhoods as well as several natural areas such as Sam Lawrence Park, Bayfront Park, and Webster’s Falls.

Kingston is a small city located halfway between Montreal and Toronto, situated along the stunning shores of Lake Ontario. Established in 1673, this charming, old city originally served as a French trading post. Today, it is known for its rich history and culture and acts as the gateway to the UNESCO-designated Rideau Canal and the legendary 1000 Islands. Often referred to as the Limestone City, downtown Kingston is home to several of its extraordinary limestone historic buildings such as Hendry House, Westbourne Terrace, and Parkview House. The city also features several art galleries, museums, and historical sites like Fort Henry, used during the War of 1812.

Thunder Bay

Thunder Bay is a waterfront city situated along one of North America’s Great Lakes – Lake Superior, in the northwestern region of Ontario, Canada. Thunder Bay offers an exciting variety of active and urban lifestyles. The city is set against a marvelous backdrop of lush boreal forest, pristine rivers and lakes, the rugged Canadian Shield, and countless trail systems. Visitors will enjoy breathtakingly serene surroundings with opportunities for outdoor recreation at every turn. Some of the fun and exciting activities to enjoy around Thunder Bay include fishing, hiking, mountain-biking, boating, jet-skiing, and horseback riding. The Terry Fox Monument, Fort Williams Historical Park, and Hillcrest Park, are just a few of the city’s top attractions for visitors to explore.

Burlington is situated between Niagara Falls and Toronto along the edge of Lake Ontario. A magnificent city that often gets overlooked, Burlington boasts an exquisite gastronomy, gorgeous gardens, a thriving art scene, historic architecture, and several famed natural areas. The latter includes the Niagara Encarpment, a UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve, the Mount Nemo Conservation Area, and Spencer Smith Park. It is home to several unique attractions including the Brant Street Pier, a nearly 450-foot, S-shaped pier extending out over Lake Ontario and the legendary Discovery Landing, a 14,200-square-foot landmark building. It boasts an observatory outfitted with grand, floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the picturesque Royal Centennial Pond.

Good to know: Best Time to Visit Toronto

Georgian Bay

Often considered the sixth Great Lake, Georgian Bay boasts 1,242 miles of gorgeous shoreline and is home to over 30,000 islands. The area consists of majestic towering cliffs, windswept pines, and endless beaches with crystal clear blue waters creating a serene beauty. It is a freshwater playground for anglers, boaters, and kayakers during the summer and a white wonderland for snowshoers, snowmobilers, and skiers in the winter. Georgian Bay’s 30,000 islands and 32 historic lighthouses makes up the biggest freshest archipelago in the world as well as Georgian Bay Islands National Park. This area can be explore by canoe using a local outfitter such as White Squall.

Greater Sudbury

Greater Sudbury is located in the heart of Northeast Ontario. Known as the city of lakes, its home to 330 lakes including its largest, Lake Wanapitei. As the largest municipality in the providence, Greater Sudbury offers urban comforts, world-renowned attractions, and natural areas. The latter includes Lake Laurentian Conservation Area, Fairbank Provincial Park, Wanapitei Provincial Park, Fielding Bird Sanctuary, and Kivi Park. These Parks are popular for a wide variety of outdoor recreation adventures like hiking, biking, cross-country skiing, camping, bird-watching, swimming, and boating. Several interactive museums can be found throughout the city such as science museums Science North and Dynamic Earth and history museums Anderson Farm Museum and the Northern Ontario Railroad Museum.

Algonquin Provincial Park

Algonquin Provincial Park consists of nearly 3,000 square miles situated between the Ottawa River and Georgian Bay in Ontario. Its home to rocky ridges, maple hills, thousands of lakes, and over 750 miles of rivers and streams as well as various plant and wildlife like wolves, moose, deer, and beaver. The park provides visitors with an array of outdoor activities year-round including camping, fishing, horseback riding, mountain biking, cross-country skiing, and day hiking. There are 19 interpretive trails throughout the park ranging in length and difficulty from 0.62 to 7.21 miles. Each trail is equipped with a trail guide and is designed to introduce visitors to a particular aspect of Algonquin’s history of ecology.

Bruce Peninsula National Park

Located on a section of UNESCO’s Niagara Escarpment World Biosphere Reserve, Bruce Peninsula National Park boasts 97 square miles of beautiful and varied landscape. Dramatic cliff sides dotted with ancient cedar trees jut out above the magnificent turquoise waters of Georgian Bay. The park is home to large expanses of mixed-wood forests, clear-water lakes, diverse wetlands, limestone coasts, and vibrant orchids. It is the traditional home for the people of the Saugeen Ojibway First Nations, and serves as a protected preserve for over 200 species of birds, amphibians, mammals both large and small and a few rare reptiles. The park is a captivating outdoor playground providing year-round activities including hiking, scrambling, swimming, camping, and cross-country skiing.

Lake Erie is one part of the five Great Lakes located in North America. It is nestled along the International Boundary between the United States and Canada with its northern shore occupying the Canadian province of Ontario. The lake is believed to have anywhere from 1,400 to 8,000 shipwrecks making a popular destination for divers. However, there are only 270 confirmed shipwreck locations to date. Several public parks surround the lake including UNESCO’s Biosphere Reserve, Long Point Provincial Park and Sand Hill Park. Lake Erie is also home to several diverse islands. The popular, Pelee Island boasts a unique and dynamic ecosystem with rare plant and wildlife, it’s reachable via a ferry from Leamington, Ontario.

Lake Ontario

Bounded by New York on the south and Ontario on the north, Lake Ontario is the most easterly and smallest of the Great Lakes. Many of Ontario’s most popular cities are located along the lakes northern and western shores, this includes Hamilton and its capital city Toronto. It is the home of several islands, the Toronto islands as well as islands, Wolfe, Association, Amherst, Simcoe, Waupoos, Big, and Garden situated in Ontario. Several lighthouses are scattered along its shores such as Gibraltar Point and Presqu’ile. The lake features over 100 beaches and houses the second oldest shipwreck of the Great Lakes.

London is located in southwestern Ontario just a two-hour drive away from Niagara Falls and Toronto as well as the United Stated border at Michigan and New York. It is surrounded by the largest freshwater lakes in the world and is known as the Forest City with more than 200 parks. It is home to Budweiser Gardens, a premier sports entertainment center, The Grand Theatre, Canada’s oldest professional theatre, Museum London, and The London Children’s Museum. The city features a thriving arts scene, charming famers markets, and a vibrant nightlife. It is also known for its rich historic roots, impressive architecture, and diverse culture including 175 churches, cathedrals, temples, synagogues, and mosques.

Mississauga

The sixth largest city in Canada, Mississauga is a corporate capital and home to the largest airport in the country, Toronto Pearson International servicing 32 million passengers a day. Ranked as the safest city in the nation for eight years straight, Mississauga is home to several family-oriented attractions and activities with an emphasis on the arts, outdoor recreation, history, and sports. The city features over 480 parks and more than 20 primary trail systems including a waterfront trail that runs from the Quebec border to Niagara-on-the-Lake. Visitors can also explore several of Mississauga’s charming historic villages like Port Credit situated along the Lake Ontario shoreline.

A regional municipality of Central Ontario, Canada, Muskoka has a variety of fun things for visitors to see and do year-round. Muskoka has several pristine, shimmering lakes that are ideal for a day of boating and water recreation; visitors will be able to enjoy fishing, tubing, wakeboarding, and waterskiing. The lakes are also perfect for boat tours and dinner cruises, paddle boarding, canoeing, kayaking, and swimming. The area’s beautiful, natural surroundings can be explored by ATVs, mountain bike trails, zip line, aerial parks, and picturesque hiking trails. Santa’s Village Family Entertainment Park has been one of Muskoka’s top attractions for more than 60 years now, and is a must visit when in the province of Ontario.

Niagara-on-the-Lake

Niagara-on-the-Lake is a charming waterfront town situated in the southern part of Ontario, Canada, along Lake Ontario’s picturesque shores. The small town is known for its summer Shaw Festival and award-winning wineries. The tree-lined, flower-filled old town features several 19th-century buildings, many of them located along Queen Street. Visitors will find several points of interest to explore around town, including the Fort George National Historic Site of Canada, Queenston Heights Park, and the McFarland House. Lake Ontario is the perfect playground for boating, jet-skiing, wakeboarding, waterskiing, fishing, paddle-boarding, canoeing, kayaking, and so much more. The town’s visitors will be just a short 15-minute drive from one of Canada’s biggest attractions, Horseshoe Falls – Niagara Falls.

Peterborough

The perfect city for outdoor enthusiasts, Peterborough is situated along the beautiful Otonabee River in Central Ontario, Canada. The river offers an idyllic setting for enjoying water activities such as jet-skiing, boating, fishing, waterskiing, paddle-boarding, wakeboarding, swimming, and tubing. Apart from river activities, visitors can partake in a variety of outdoor adventures that include spelunking through glacier formed caves, hiking the area’s picturesque trails, or golfing at one of the city’s championship courses. Peterborough has many attractions and points of interest to explore, including Petroglyphs Provincial Park, the Peterborough Lift Lock, Riverview Park and Zoo, and Canadian Canoe Museum. Visitors will appreciate the city’s plentiful wilderness areas, sparkling waters, and lush forests.

Sault Ste. Marie

Sault Ste. Marie is city situated along St. Marys River, Lake Superior, and the United States border in Ontario, Canada. The city is famous for its 19th-century Sault Ste. Marie Canal – a National Historic Site that’s also part of the country’s national park system. The Canadian Bushplane Heritage Centre has a vast collection of flight simulators and aircraft for visitors to explore. Some of the city’s other attractions include the Art Gallery of Algoma, the Sault Ste. Marie Museum, Hiawatha Highlands, and Kinsmen Park. Sault Ste. Marie is perfect for outdoor recreation all year-round, including hiking, kayaking, ice climbing, mountain biking, zip-lining, and rock climbing.

The Blue Mountains

The Blue Mountains is a small, charming town situated along the shimmering Nottawasaga Bay in Ontario, Canada. From families to groups of friends to couples seeking a romantic getaway, this little town has the perfect activity or adventure for everyone. Thrill-seekers will appreciate the town’s bike park and rugged mountain-biking trails during the summer, and freshly powdered ski slopes in the winter. The bay offers up plenty of opportunity for fun water activities, such as sailing tours, boating, fishing, paddle-boarding, kayaking, and jet-skiing. Visitors will enjoy unique shopping experiences, sensational waterfront dining, world-class attractions, and breathtaking scenery around every corner.

Thousand Islands

Thousand Islands is a North American Archipelago, or group of islands, located in the St. Lawrence River near Ontario, Canada. Comprised of over 1,800 unique islands, Thousand Islands offers plenty of opportunity for outdoor recreation, and provides an idyllic setting for a peaceful vacation. Located along the United States and Canada borders, the region features rich history, unique culture, and endless, picturesque shorelines. Visitors will have several fun and interesting activities to choose from, including guided boat tours, fishing tours, wakeboarding, and jet-skiing. Visitors will have the chance to explore some of the region’s more popular attractions, like the Kingston Waterfront, Brockville Railway Tunnel, and Fort Henry National Historic Site.

More info: Where to Stay in Toronto

Tobermory is a charming harbor village located on the Bruce Peninsula of Canada’s Ontario province. The land around Tobermory is renowned for its marvelous natural setting, truly a photographer’s paradise. The region features miles of lush forest with tall cedars and pines, majestic cliffs, and beautiful turquoise waters. Tobermory proudly serves as the home to North America’s greatest concentration of native orchid flowers. Visitors hiking along the area’s magnificent trail system may be lucky enough to catch a glimpse of a gorgeous Showy Lady’s Slipper Orchid, or rare Calypso Orchid. The village is situated near Fathom Five National Marine Park, the site of 19th-century lighthouses, the Flowerpot Island sea stacks, and a number of shipwreck dive sites.

Wasaga Beach

Recognized as one of Ontario, Canada’s, premier tourist destinations, Wasaga Beach is a 14-kilometer beach that stretches along the shimmering Nottawasaga Bay. Visitors will enjoy a pristine, white sand beach, clean warm waters, and breathtaking, panoramic mountain views. Wasaga Beach offers a tremendous variety of excellent restaurant and accommodation options. One of the area’s best kept secrets is the recreation trail system. The picturesque trails are perfect for snowmobiling, cross-country skiing, mountain-biking, and hiking. Wasaga Beach also provides plenty of opportunity for exciting water activities, such as boating, jet-skiing, fishing, tubing, wakeboarding, kayaking, and waterskiing. Thrill seekers can go skydiving over the beach, giving them the chance to admire its beauty from a one-of-a-kind perspective.

An International Gateway between the United States of America and Canada, Windsor is a city in Ontario that offers fascinating cultural and historical landmarks, unparalleled waterfront gardens and parks, and world-class entertainment. Visitors will enjoy a city that is committed to being one of the most vibrant and creative destinations, where artistic expression is encouraged, and cultural diversity is celebrated. Whether visitors are interested in artistic and intellectual experiences, or some of the best recreational and heritage sites around, the city has it all. Some top attractions include Windsor Sculpture Park, the Art Gallery of Windsor, and the Chimczuk Museum.

• 2. Niagara Falls
• 3. Hamilton
• 4. Kingston
• 5. Thunder Bay
• 6. Burlington
• 7. Casa Loma
• 8. Georgian Bay
• 9. Greater Sudbury
• 10. Algonquin Provincial Park
• 11. Bruce Peninsula National Park
• 12. Lake Erie
• 13. Lake Ontario
• 15. Mississauga
• 16. Muskoka
• 17. Niagara-on-the-Lake
• 18. Peterborough
• 19. Sault Ste. Marie
• 20. The Blue Mountains
• 21. Thousand Islands
• 22. Toronto
• 23. Tobermory
• 24. Wasaga Beach
• 25. Windsor

More Getaways:

Resources: VisitTheUSA.com , U.S. Department of State

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The top 10 attractions in Ontario

Things to do

Big buildings, big festivals and big adventure fill one of Canada’s biggest provinces. No wonder so many people come to visit. 

Niagara Falls

You might think that if you've seen Niagara Falls External Link Title once, you've seen it all. But the sound of the water as you approach it, the mist you feel on your face as you look up 165 feet at a true natural wonder, and the sheer power of the falls that you can feel to your bones... those things never really get old. Either way, there are a bunch of different ways to experience Niagara Falls. Taking a boat cruise for an up-close and soggy view might be the most classic approach. But you can also Journey Behind the Falls, travelling through tunnels until you're literally behind a wall of water. Or maybe you want to take them in from above in a helicopter, or wait until nightfall when the Falls light up in color. Throw in all the attractions and entertainment in the surrounding neighborhood, and you start to realize why a classic stays a classic. 

Algonquin Park

If you were to make a general list of all the outdoor activities you can think of, you could probably find a solid 90 percent of them in Algonquin Park External Link Title . Ontario's very first provincial park is overflowing with activities for every taste and preference. In the warmer seasons, you've got backcountry camping, backpacking, biking, boating, fishing, picnicking, swimming, whitewater canoeing and wildlife watching (say that five times fast). Then in the winter, you can add on skiing, snowmobiling and dog sledding. Over 1,500 lakes and nearly 750 miles of streams and rivers are located within the park, and you'll find over 1,200 campsites along their shores. In other words, there's no shortage of reasons to visit.

Stratford Festival

It isn't always easy to time your travel to the exact dates of a particular festival you want to visit. This isn't really an issue when it comes to The Stratford Festival External Link Title , the leading classic theatre festival in North America which runs for seven months every year. Between April and October, you see a multitude of high-quality theatre productions, crossing genres and generations. From Shakespeare to Moli?re, tragedy to comedy, choreographed musicals to one-person shows, the Stratford Festival is really the best place in the country to put on your Sunday best and take in a play. 

The CN Tower's EdgeWalk

The CN Tower External Link Title is one of Canada's most well-known landmarks. But a visit to the 1,815-foot building isn't just about seeing the sights. Those who feel a bit bold can walk across the glass floor, only 2.5 inches thick, 113 stories above the ground. Those who are feeling even more bold might travel up another 33 stories to the SkyPod observation platform for the best views of the city. But the real draw, the attraction unlike anything else in the world, is the EdgeWalk. Strap on a harness, head outside the tower and walk along the building's edge with nothing but air between you and the ground. This is not for those with a fear of heights or the faint-of-heart. It is for those who want a serious adrenaline rush, and the ability to tell their friends they did the highest hands-free walk in the world.

Parliament Hill

Canada's Parliament Hill External Link Title isn't just home to the country's government; it's also a cultural and community hub whose activities are hosted in a really incredible setting. You can, for example, do yoga on Parliament Hill. Every Wednesday at noon during the summer, hundreds of people flood the hill with mats and yoga pants to stretch out in front of the iconic buildings. You can also take the Sound and Light show, which for 30-minutes projects a beautiful, engaging story onto the Parliament Buildings themselves. And then there are the more traditional activities. Visit the historic Peace Tower for a 360-degree view of the city and take in the Changing of the Guards, before heading inside for a building tour.

Ottawa River Rafting

Northwest of the nation’s capital, the Ottawa River surges through the Canadian Shield. This waterway, once crossed by First Nations and fur traders, is now home to pure whitewater adventure. In fact, the Ottawa Valley is known as the Whitewater Capital of Canada. Choose one of the local rafting companies and, with experienced guides at the helm, safely splash and roll through one of the world’s great whitewater routes. The difficulty and force of the river varies, so you don’t need to be an experienced paddler to enjoy being on the water. Just hop in the boat and enjoy yourself.

Great Spirit Circle Trail

The Great Spirit Circle Trail External Link Title is a real cultural experience, exposing visitors to the lives of the Anishinaabe people of Manitoulin Island, the largest freshwater lake island in the world. From waterfalls to breathtaking views, the natural beauty of the island is only surpassed by the culture and tradition that it houses. Seven First Nations reserves can be found on Manitoulin, and the rich Aboriginal history is extremely important to all of its residents. The Great Spirit Circle Trail puts you in the hands of a local guide, who will walk you through the history of the island, its nature and its peoples. Hear their stories, share in their food and even take part in a traditional ceremony.

Agawa Canyon Tour Train

Riding the rails isn't what it used to be. On the Agawa Canyon Tour Train External Link Title , you'll spend one day in the total comfort of a modern train while traveling through the heart of the Canadian wilderness. Explore the province's western edge, seeing its lakes and rivers, Canadian Shield forests, and granite rock formations through the big windows of your train car. Listen to an audio tour as it points out interesting landmarks and explains the history of the region, from Ojibwe origins through modern explorers. Best of all, travel 500 feet down to the floor of the Agawa Canyon, and marvel at the power of the last ice age as you step off the train and explore the canyon from its base or from the lookout 250-feet above.

Fort William Historical Park

Travel 200 years back in time and live the life of a voyageur at Fort William Historical Park External Link Title . The park was headquarters of the North West Company's inland fur trade during the early 1800s, trade which played a key role in the foundations of Canada. Feel as though you've stepped back in time as you walk among 42 historic buildings, painstakingly reproduced based on archeological evidence and research. Interact with members of 19th-century fur trade society - Scottish fur traders, French voyageurs, artisans, farmers, First Nations Ojibwe and M?tis - and hear their personal stories. Witness demonstrations such as canoe building, blacksmithing and tinsmithing. Be part of an era gone by, and come away with a keen understanding of how fur traders lived their lives.

1000 Islands

Located on the St. Lawrence Seaway, close to the Ontario border with the United States, the 1000 Islands External Link Title region offers an island getaway not too far from home. Most people will hop on a boat tour and learn about the region's history, from real pirates and bootleggers to the politicians who lived and traveled there. You'll marvel at the castles and mansions where the rich and famous came to play on the weekend. You're also going to want to take advantage of all the opportunities for outdoor adventure. Scuba dive among the 200 shipwrecks in the region or go fishing for the big one. There are also 30 public golf courses in the area and plenty of kayaking and canoeing opportunities. Or you might just want to relax and enjoy the beautiful setting with some local food and drinks.

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15 best places to visit in ontario [canada] in 2024.

Home to the Great Lakes, the city of Toronto and, of course, Niagara Falls … 

Ontario has to be one of the best places to visit in Canada !

With ample spots for fishing, swimming, kayaking, canoeing, camping, hiking, and biking; it really is the nature-lover's dream.

Couple this with major cities, fantastic road networks and transport links; Ontario is super easy to visit.

But with so much to do, it’s also pretty … darn … BIG.

It’s larger than France and Spain combined!

So deciding on the best places to visit in Ontario can be tough. But don’t worry, we’ve got you covered!

After 2 months spent road tripping the entire state, we’ve whittled the destinations down to the '15 best places in Ontario'.

As well as throwing in a few useful hints and tricks for making the most of your stay.

Let’s get stuck in…

Travellerspoint

How to get to Ontario

You've got a couple of options when it comes to travelling to Ontario Province! 

Ontario is huge province so naturally, there are plenty of airports. In fact, there are around 48 of them so you've got lots of options.

However, only four of these are international; London International, Ottawa International, Thunder Bay International, and Toronto Pearson.

Flights arrive daily to these airports, so when you're planning your trip make sure you find the best deals through Skyscanner ! 

By public transport

If you're already traveling through Canada or you're in the United States then there are plenty of trains and buses that will take you to Ontario.

The most popular operators include Amtrak , Via Rail , and Ontario Northland .

If you're planning to travel by bus which can be cheaper then make sure you check out Coach Canada , Flixbus , and Mega Bus .

By car/motorhome

Many people choose to hire a motorhome and drive from the United States to Canada! If you're already in Canada, then you can simply drive through the other provinces to reach Ontario.

If you're planning to do a cross-country trip across the country then many people choose to start in the city of Vancouver on the west coast, or the provinces of Quebec or Newfoundland and Labrador.

By doing a Quebec road trip you'll be right next door to Ontario, so you can always explore both provinces in a short amount of time.

For those who'd prefer to hire a car, check out our guide to the top car rental companies in Canada !

If you're in the United States then you can always catch the ferry into Ontario. However, services are quite limited.

Due to Ontario's location, ferry routes only depart from Michigan, New York State, Ohio, and a couple of other locations.

You can find more information about the ferry routes here!

Getting Around Ontario

Ontario is home to an ultra-modern transportation system and there are various methods to get around the province.

One way to get around is by rental car. Renting a car is the best way to travel if you want to embark on a road trip to various regions.  

Driving yourself around means you can stop and go as you please and you can easily explore off-the-beaten-track locations.

However, I'd recommend hiring a campervan as there are tons of fantastic RV rentals in Ontario !  One of the best places to grab a camper is in Toronto , and this can be booked through Motorhome Republic.

Staying in an RV or a campervan allows you complete flexibility when it comes to exploring this beautiful state and you'll save money by staying at campsites too.

There are four international airports and many smaller regional airports in Ontario that offer commuter flights from city to city within the province.  This makes it easy to travel quickly over long distances.  

For example, a flight from Toronto to Thunder Bay is just over two hours whereas it takes about 14 hours to drive between the two cities. 

To find a great price on regional flights, check out available routes and book your flights on Skyscanner !

Trains are another great way to get around Ontario and there are both municipal trains and regional trains.

The Go Train is a commuter train serving the greater Toronto region but there's also the city rail transit system which operates a subway system and streetcars.  

In Ottawa, OC Transpo services that region and the Waterloo region has its own light rail service.

Via Rail operates two inter-regional train services including the Quebec City - Windsor Corridor and The Canadian which travels from Southern Ontario to destinations in Western Canada.  

Amtrak offers services between various cities in Ontario and cities across the border in New York.

Lastly, Ontario Northland connects southern Ontario to northern regions including Moosonee and James Bay.

Bus travel is another widely available transportation method in Ontario!

‍ Greyhound services the entire province including the northern regions, whereas, Ontario Northland services Toronto, central Ontario and Northern Ontario.

Megabus and Coach Canada service the southern region of the province.

Where to Stay in Ontario

When it comes to places to stay during your travels around Ontario, the possibilities are endless. 

Since accommodation is one of the things that tends to eat up a huge portion of anyone's travel budget, it's a good thing that there are many deals to be found on top-quality accommodation. 

Looking for a quiet, fully-equipped space to kick back in the center of Toronto? Booking.com has a wide range of accommodation options such as this lovely guesthouse !

How about a centrally-located hotel in Ottawa that features a restaurant, gym and hot tub?

If a treehouse overlooking a lake in Thunder Bay sounds like a dream, Airbnb has you covered. They feature a wide range of other unique accommodations all over the province.

There are some fantastic deals to be found in Ontario and we've got some great tips on how to find cheap hotel rooms ...

15 Best Places to Visit in Ontario

Canada is a land of diversity but the city of Toronto is a major cultural hub where hundreds of different cultures come together. 

Situated along Lake Ontario, this capital city is home to over two million people , but that doesn't mean there aren't many parks, trails and even beautiful sandy beaches.

Toronto is a hub for ethnic foods so you can try a different type of world cuisine every day that you're there.

Some of the must-see attractions include Ripley's Aquarium of Canada , Kensington Market , Fort York , and the Royal Ontario Museum .

If you've got time you'll also want to head to the Art Gallery of Ontario , Casa Loma , Toronto Zoo , High Park and, of course, the iconic CN Tower .

A great way to get to know the city and see the attractions at the same time is to do some sightseeing with the city's Hop-on Hop-off bus tour .

Check out our guide on things to do in Toronto for more inspiration!

2. Algonquin Provincial Park

Located in southeastern Ontario, Algonquin Provincial Park is one of the best places in Ontario to visit for the weekend. 

It's also a perfect escape into nature with 4,000 square miles of pristine wilderness consisting of lakes, bogs, rolling hills, forests and rivers.

Hiking is one of the most popular activities in the park and some of the top trails include Whiskey Rapids Trail, Barron Canyon Trail and Centennial Ridges Trail.

Because much of the park can only be accessed via waterways, kayaking is also popular and the area is home to some of the best trout fishing spots in the region.  

As you explore Algonquin National Park, make sure to watch for moose, bears and many species of birds.

Some of the must-see attractions in the park include the Algonquin Logging Museum , Head Lake Waterfall and Lookout Point.  

If you're looking for somewhere to view spectacular autumnal colors, Algonquin National Park is one of the top places to visit in Ontario during the Fall.

3. Niagara Falls

No trip to the province is complete without a visit to world-famous Niagara Falls !

These falls are one of the best places to visit in Ontario for a weekend getaway, as they're located close to the capital of Toronto.

While you're likely familiar with the beautiful waterfalls of this name, perhaps you didn't realize that Niagara Falls is also a city! This city is home to many other world-class sights besides one of the top Ontario tourist attractions.

There are many ways to experience the Falls and just as many ways to get a spectacular view of them. 

Escape the city at Niagara Falls State Park or get aerial views of the Falls from atop the Niagara SkyWheel .

You can also explore the world behind the Falls with a Journey Behind the Falls Tour or enjoy spectacular views of the Falls whilst you dine on a gourmet meal at the Skylon Tower . 

There are also plenty of gorgeous hotels that offer views of Niagara Falls so you can even wake up and walk right to your window for epic views! 

Other popular attractions in the city include the Butterfly Conservatory and Rainbow Bridge .

Don't forget to check out our guide of the best things to do in Niagara Falls !

4. Niagara-on-the-Lake

Only a half-hour drive away from Niagara Falls is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Ontario; Niagara-on-the-Lake .

It might only be a short distance away but the old buildings, rolling hills, fields and scenic location on Lake Ontario, make it seem like a whole world away.

The historic 19th-century town itself is characterized by lovely tree-lined streets, flower gardens and a scenic waterfront area. 

As you walk around the pretty little town, you'll find many art galleries, antique shops, cafes, parks and historic sites. You might even see a horse-drawn carriage making its way along the streets.  

Just outside the town is Ontario's Wine Country where you'll find many of the province's top vineyards, wineries, breweries, distilleries and fine dining restaurants. 

There's Peller Estates Winery and Restaurant , Trius Winery & Restaurant , Reif Estate Winery , and Ravine Vineyard Estate Winery .

See them all on an Ontario Wine Country Tour !

Not quite the Paris that first came to your mind, but Paris, Ontario is a very nice place nevertheless. 

This scenic little town is known for its cobblestone architecture, old-world feel, and narrow streets filled with cozy cafes, boutique shops and galleries.

Pleasant days should be spent exploring the nature trails at Barker's Bush or kayaking/canoeing in Lion's Park.  

Whereas, rainy days are best spent learning about the history and culture of the area at The Paris Museum & Historical Society , Woodland Cultural Centre , Glenhyrst Art Gallery , and Mohawk Chapel . 

Other attractions in the area include Penman's Dam, The Paris Wincey Mills Co. and the Bell Homestead National Historic Site.

Here's some more information on the best things to do in Paris , Ontario!

6. Pukaskwa National Park

Situated along Lake Superior near the town of Marathon in Northern Ontario, Pukaskwa National Park is a large wilderness area that protects an area of undeveloped shoreline. 

E njoy hikes through boreal forests with lake views on some of the park's trails including The Coastal Hiking Trail, Boardwalk Beach Trail, and the Southern Headland Trail. If you've got time then why not check out the Bimose Kinoomagewan Trail, Hattie Cove Fire Walk, and Manito Trail?

As you explore the park, you'll see many beautiful sights including picturesque suspension bridges, sandy beaches, Chigamiwinigum Falls, Otter Island Lighthouse and the Pic River Dunes. 

If you're up for an epic water adventure, try paddling along the Pukaskwa River or White River. However, just make sure you take along an action camera or pack a dry bag!

For some reason, this amazing national park doesn't see as many visitors as some of Ontario's other parks which makes it all the more desirable. 

A remote location without the crowds. Sounds like paradise!

7. Bruce Peninsula

As part of the Niagara Escarpment World Biosphere Reserve, The Bruce Peninsula is a vital area for plants and wildlife. 

The region is home to the biggest area of forest and natural habitat in southern Ontario and this forest has some of the oldest trees in North America.

The Bruce Peninsula is popular with both locals and tourists who enjoy an array of outdoor activities including hiking, fishing, camping and nature viewing. 

These activities and more can be enjoyed in the region's two national parks, Bruce Peninsula National Park and Fathom Five National Marine Park .

However, the Bruce Peninsula is one of the top places to go in Ontario!

As you explore the region, you'll see rugged cliffs, dense forests, pristine lakes and a variety of unique ecosystems. 

It's a great place to see a variety of beautiful wildflowers and wildlife too including black bears, foxes and chipmunks.

Some of the popular attractions in the region include Lion's Head Beach, Greig's Caves, Devil's Monument and Lion's Head Harbour Lighthouse. 

A number of provincial parks are also located on the peninsula including Black Creek, Ira Lake, Hope Bay Forest, Smoky Head and Johnston's Harbour.

While Toronto is the capital city of Ontario, Ottawa is the capital city of Canada and it's one of the best cities to visit in the whole country. 

Ottawa is known for its beautiful parks and green spaces, and its world-class historical and cultural attractions. 

This is where you'll learn about much of Canada's history along with the history of the city and surrounding region. 

Located along the Ottawa River, the Victorian-style buildings of Parliament Hill are the center of this bustling city.

Other attractions include the National Gallery of Canada , the Canadian War Museum , Peace Tower, and the Notre-Dame Cathedral .

You'll also want to visit the Canadian Nature Museum and Canada Aviation and Space Museum !

When you need an escape from the crowds, head to one of the parks along the Rideau Canal and watch all the boats coming and going. 

Or better yet, take a Rideau Canal Cruise and spend an afternoon taking in the sights and sounds of Ottawa from the water.

Ottawa is also one of the best places to visit in Ontario during winter! People come from all over to enjoy skating on the Rideau Canal and the great downhill skiing areas.

9. Killarney Provincial Park

Located on Georgian Bay along Lake Huron in southern Ontario, Killarney Provincial Park is an immense wilderness.  

It features spectacular scenery consisting of mountains, coastline, wetlands, forest and more than 50 lakes. When it comes to day trips, it’s one of the best Ontario destinations to spend time in nature. 

Hiking is one of the most popular activities in this park and some of the top trails include Cranberry Bog Trail, Silver Peak, Granite Ridge Trail, La Cloche Silhouette Trail, and The Crack and Chikanishing Trail. 

If canoeing or kayaking is more your thing, there are several routes connecting various lakes in the area.

As you explore Killarney Provincial Park, you'll see a wide variety of plants and likely spot some wildlife too including moose, deer, black bears, wolves, beavers, lynx and more than 100 species of birds.  

If you stick around until nightfall, you can enjoy unspoiled views of the night skies at Killarney's Dark Sky Preserve.

10. Thunder Bay

Thunder Bay is the largest city in Northwestern Ontario but it's not big enough to be away from the pristine wilderness that the area is known for. 

Situated on Lake Superior, Thunder Bay is one of the top places to see in Ontario. 

Whether you're interested in historic architecture or stunning natural vistas, you'll find what you're looking for and more.

Within the city itself, enjoy a wide variety of attractions including the Thunder Bay Art Gallery , Thunder Bay Historical Museum , Northwestern Ontario Sports Hall of Fame and the Thunder Bay Military Museum. 

At the Fort William Historical Park , you'll learn about the history of fur trading and be able to hike a trail that leads to the top of Mount McKay.

Outdoor lovers can also escape the urban landscape and head to Sleeping Giant Provincial Park on the nearby Sibley Peninsula. Here, you'll find hiking trails and have opportunities to view wildlife. 

Other nearby nature areas include Kakabeka Falls and Cascades Conservation Area.

11. Manitoulin Island

If you're thinking an island in the middle of a lake would have to be small, you don't know Manitoulin Island . 

Lake Huron is one of the biggest lakes in the world and Manitoulin Island, which is located on this lake, is the biggest freshwater island on earth. 

Another fact that you may not have been aware of is the island was also the site of the first European settlement in Canada.

Manitoulin Island is so big that it has more than 100 lakes so you can only imagine the kayaking, canoeing and fishing adventures that are to be had. 

The pace here is laid back, the crowds non-existent, the scenery incredible - making it a nature lover's dream! 

Disappear into the wilderness and along the way see the stunning Bridal Veil Falls, Providence Bay Beach, and Misery Bay Provincial Nature Reserve.

During your time here, you'll also want to see the 10-mile Point Lookout, Strawberry Island Lighthouse, and Little Current Iron Swing Bridge. 

Enjoy a day of hiking along the trails that include the Great Spirit Circle Trail and Cup and Saucer Trail. This way, you've got the chance to see wildlife and a variety of birds.

Manitoulin Island is also a place with a long history and vibrant culture. You can learn more about the island, its past and its people at the Mishibinijima Private Art Gallery , Ojibwe Cultural Foundation and the Old Mill Heritage Centre .

For some inspiration and tips on how to best see Manitoulin check out these self-guided tours that cover almost every inch of the island.

Trust me, once you've visited you'll see why Manitoulin Island is one the most unique destinations in Ontario.

12. Thousand Islands National Park

It's Canada's smallest National Park, but it's also one of Ontario's most popular ones. I'm talking about the Thousand Islands National Park which is situated in The Frontenac Arch Biosphere in the Saint Lawrence River.  

The park has 21 islands, many islets and a mainland area with a day-use park, exhibits and a visitor center where you can learn all about the nature and history of the park.

Known for being the most biodiverse area of the country, you should have no problem spotting some wildlife here including raccoons, rabbits, foxes, coyotes and deer.

You'll need to rent a canoe or a kayak or take a tour to access many of the areas of the park and as you explore it, you'll see beautiful rugged shorelines and hike around some of the islands.

Some of the area's top attractions include the Thousand Islands Bridge, Fort Henry National Historic Site, 1000 Islands Tower, Mac Johnson Wildlife Area, Brockville Museum and 1000 Islands History Museum .  

You can even embark on a ziplining adventure at Treetop Trekking 1000 Islands .

13. Prince Edward

Prince Edward County is situated along Lake Ontario in the southern region of the province. 

The County, as it's known locally, is a popular place for locals to escape the nearby cities and indulge in a more laid-back pace. 

The area is widely known for its vineyards and wineries such as Norman Hardie Winery , Sandbanks Estate Winery , and Closson Chase Vineyards .

Another notable feature of Prince Edward County is the Sandbanks Provincial Park where you'll find hiking trails and some of the nicest sandy beaches in the region.  

Nature lovers also love the Little Bluff Conservation Area and sailing and fishing on the Bay of Quinte.

Other top attractions in Prince Edward County include Macaulay Heritage Park , the National Air Force Museum of Canada , and Birdhouse City.

You can also explore Mariners Park Museum, Oeno Gallery , and Ameliasburgh Heritage Village.

14. Pancake Bay Provincial Park

Situated in the Algoma Country Region on the shores of Lake Superior in Northern Ontario, Pancake Bay Provincial Park is mostly known for its fur trading history and beautiful sandy beaches including Pancake Bay Beach. 

The park was established to protect the fragile dunes of the area's beaches. These beaches are known for their clear blue waters similar to many places in the Caribbean.

Hiking and biking are popular activities in this park.  Some of the top trails include the Pancake Bay Nature Trail and the Edmund Fitzgerald Lookout Trail. 

Kayaking, canoeing and fishing are also great activities to do here and it's possible to enjoy swimming in the summer months. 

Other attractions include Coppermine Point Lighthouse and Batchawana Falls.

The first thing you'll likely see upon entering the town of Wawa is the giant 28-foot-tall Canada goose monument that graces the entrance to this pretty little town. 

Situated in northern Ontario, people from all over flock to this area for the incredible sport fishing opportunities, kayaking adventures on Lake Superior and nature escapes.

Hike along the Voyageur Hiking Trail, kick back in the sun at Sandy Beach or take a stroll along the Lion's Waterfront Park Boardwalk. 

Scenic High Falls and Silver Falls are two waterfalls located along the Magpie River and you'll find picnic areas and incredible views at both of these sites.

Nearby Michipicoten Post Provincial Park offers even more opportunities to escape into the area's pristine wilderness.

Ontario Travel Tips and FAQ

When is a good time to visit ontario.

The best time to visit Ontario is between May and September. This is when the weather is warmest and there's less chance of rain. 

The months outside of this period are too cold and snowy unless you're coming to the province to enjoy the many popular winter activities including downhill skiing and snowmobiling.

October is a nice month to visit if you want to see the Fall colors but some attractions may be closed for the season during this time.  

What is a good budget for Ontario?

On average, visitors spend about $180 a day when traveling in Ontario and this includes meals and attractions but not accommodation which runs at about $200 a night on average. 

Of course, this is just a guideline and you can budget for far less than this by opting for hotels outside the cities, camping, and enjoying picnics rather than gourmet meals in top restaurants.  

Can you just book a tour for Ontario?

There are no guided tours that explore the whole province but you'll find tours in almost every city and region, including city tours, bus tours and sailing tours.

Some examples of tours you'll find in various areas of Ontario include:

• City Sightseeing Toronto Hop-on Hop-off Bus
• Journey Behind the Falls Tours and Tickets
• Niagara: Half-Day Winery Tour with Tastings & Optional Lunch
• Rideau Canal Cruise

Is Ontario safe?

Yes, travel in Ontario is very safe, but it's important to be as vigilant as you would be anywhere else you travel. 

In the cities, there are petty crimes that are more widespread in certain districts than others. That being said, the city of Toronto is said to be the 6th safest city in the world.

One of the dangers to be aware of while traveling in Ontario is the driving conditions on some major highways, such as the 401, which can be overwhelming for first-time visitors.

Some areas of Ontario are hotspots for severe thunderstorms too which are more common during late spring and summer. 

Stay on top of weather conditions and follow instructions from local emergency personnel if you find yourself in the middle of one of these storms.

When exploring Ontario's wild areas, be cautious around animals.  

Ticks are also a common nuisance in many areas so make sure to wear bug spray when venturing into the wilderness and do a tick check afterwards.

What is the weather like in Ontario?

Ontario enjoys a continental climate with four distinct seasons. 

Summer is hot and muggy and the winter is very cold with lots of snow. Spring tends to be warm and rainy while Fall is cooler and drier.

Where to go after Ontario

And that’s the beautiful province of Ontario in a nutshell! 

One of the best things about Ontario is its central location which allows for easy access to other nearby Canadian Provinces and the United States.

Whether you want to head East and explore the Maritime Provinces, or head west and explore the Rocky Mountains and the state of Alberta - there are endless options when it comes to Canadian road trips .

You could even head to the Pacific Coast, or veer south of the US border; the possibilities to extend your epic road-tripping adventure are endless!

If you're planning to spend some more time exploring Canada then here are some guides that you may find useful:

• The Best Things to do in Winnipeg
• The Best Things to do in Montreal, Quebec
• The Best Things to do in Quebec City

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33 Best Weekend Getaways in Ontario, Canada

Written By: ThePlanetD Team

Updated On: February 19, 2024

Ontario has some of Canada’s best cities and towns in Canada from Toronto to Paris (named one of the prettiest little towns in Canada) and it is filled with awesome outdoor adventures. In a nutshell, Ontario has it all . So if traveling abroad isn’t in the cards, you can still take a break to enjoy these best weekend getaways in Ontario.

Ontario offers year-round options for a fun filled weekend trip, and there is plenty of beauty and culture to be found. If you are looking for the best weekend getaways in Ontario, rest assured you have many places to choose from. And we’ve rounded them up all in one place for you.

Table of Contents

Weekend Getaways in Ontario

We’ll cover all the best weekend getaways – splitting the guide into outdoor, urban, family, and resort getaways. So let’s start with the top weekend getaways in Ontario to enjoy one of these lovely city breaks in Ontario..

Cities and Towns

Ready to support local businesses, explore charming towns, and treat yourself to retail therapy? These are the best cities and towns for weekend getaways in Ontario. From small towns to major cities, we’ve got a fantastic range to suit everyone’s interests.

Tiny Paris was named the “Prettiest little town in Canada,” and it is certainly is one of the best small towns to visit for a fun Ontario weekend getaway. The town is famed for its stone buildings, cafes, and window shopping culture.

We may be slightly biased with this one because Paris is our home town but it is lovely here. Hiking and biking trails, great dining, spas, and scenery surround us.

Apart from shopping and enjoying cafes, you can enjoy some activities like river tubing, fly fishing, or kayaking on the Grand River. Paris is located at the junction of the Nith Rivers and Grand River, so it offers lots of outdoor entertainment including hiking on the Grand Trail following the Grand River from the portage area at the dam.

For a weekend getaway for couples, book a room at the Arlington Hotel and take a stroll through the streets. Pick up a coffee at the Paris Bakery and browse the many boutique shops and the shops at Wincey Mills. Book a massage at the Ah Spa in the afternoon and then book dinner at Stillwaters.

Accommodation in Paris – The best accommodation in Paris is the  Arlington Hotel . This central hotel was established in 1851 and offers historical, chic accommodation in the heart of Paris, just opposite the Grand River. The luxury boutique hotel has a restaurant, tranquil updated rooms, and unique decor. Read more: 27 Things to do in Paris Ontario – A Local’s Guide

Ottawa is an all-around golden child and it is our absolute favorite city in Ontario. We’ve been many times and it’s impossible to round up everything in one short paragraph of things to do. It has an abundance of museums , historical sites, landmarks, nature, an exciting food scene, and some great restaurants.

Ottawa is a big city with a small-town feel bringing an extra depth of character to the place. It is easily accessed and makes for a rewarding weekend break for anyone looking for an Ontario city experience. Check out the best Ottawa tours here.

Ottawa is home to thousands of  things to do , including the Canadian National Gallery, Canadian War Museum, and Parliament Hill. Visitors can fly straight into Ottawa or drive there from major cities like Montreal (which Ottawa is a two-hour drive from). The capital of Canada is perfect for winter, autumn , spring , or summer adventures .

Best accommodation option in Ottawa – You will have hundreds of accommodation options in Ottawa.  Fairmont Chateau Laurier  is particularly luxurious if you want to splash out a little. Read more: 33 Things to do in Ottawa – A Complete Guide to the City

3. Prince Edward County

Prince Edward, aka Prince Edward County, is technically an island. The island community is known for its local artists, beautiful beaches, and wineries. And, just a two-hour drive from Toronto , Prince Edward County is one of the most charming places for a weekend getaway.

While you eat, drink, and be merry, keep your eyes out for Amelia’s Garden Restaurant. The fine dining restaurant prides itself on organic, seasonal produce from nearby farms. It even offers accommodation packages too, so you can stay and dine. If you are traveling with children, Cottage Country Factory is more suitable than fine dining.

Just a short drive from Prince Edward County, this famed sweet shop is the ultimate place for children to pick up their favorite candy. And with so many outdoor  activities on Prince Edward , their sugar rush may come in handy.

Best accommodation option in Prince Edward County – There are plenty of great options, but  Angeline’s Inn  is the quirkiest. The historic inn has bold, colorful decor and warm service.

4. Niagara on the Lake

Niagara-on-the-Lake is a brilliant small-town getaway for both summer and winter. Filled with historic charm, this town in Ontario is packed with culture, from post-1812 war buildings to world-class theater productions. Read more: 15 Amazing Things to do in Niagara on the Lake – Canada

Many people liken visiting Niagara-on-the-Lake to stepping back into the 19th century as they ride horse carts, sip wine and eat at a fine dining restaurant before relaxing in a luxury hotel. As a weekend destination, it sure packs a punch.

When you aren’t visiting historical attractions, squeeze in a winery or two. Niagara-on-the-Lake is well-known for its successful wineries, and you can experience its produce with wine tasting. Wine tasting tours can be booked here.

Niagara-on-the-Lake is an hour’s drive from  Hamilton  and an hour and a half’s drive from Toronto. This half day wine tour takes you to sample wines at Pillitteri Estates, Inniskillin, and Konzelmann Estates followed by free time to enjoy Niagara on the Lake.

Best accommodation option in Niagara-on-the-Lake – The Pillar and Post Inn and Spa  – is a Niagara institution renovated in a historic building. It has full modern amenities with indoor and outdoor pools, and exotic hot springs pool at 100 Fountain Spa.

• The Pillar and Post Inn and Spa  – is a Niagara on the Lake institution renovated in a historic building. It has full modern amenities with indoor and outdoor pools, and exotic hot springs pool at 100 Fountain Spa.
• The Prince of Wales  – is another favourite set in a Victorian landmark downtown. With a pool, fitness center, and make sure to book at an appointment at the Secret Garden Spa, it is a perfect choice for an elegant vacation in Niagara on the Lake.
• There are plenty of luxurious AirBnBs in Niagara on the Lake.  This one is a lovely cottage  that is two blocks from downtown’s main street.
• Read our full guide – Where to Stay in Niagara Falls – Best Hotels

5. Niagara Falls Getaway

Niagara-on-the-Lake and Niagara Falls are as different as salt and pepper. A Niagara Falls getaway features the falls, however, the town has a much livelier atmosphere, with tourist attractions like wax museums and casinos.

You can get up close and personal in Journey Behind the Falls or the Hornblower, enjoy the excitement of Clifton Hill, nightlife and attractions of the Fallsview area and make sure to ride the awesome Ferris wheel.

If you are looking for fun a weekend getaway in Ontario with a bit of adventure, nightlife, and excitement, Niagara Falls is an excellent idea. Plus, there is  romance to be found if you know where to look .

A Niagara Falls Getaway is our favorite Ontario weekend getaway because we always find something new to do. In the past 25 years we have visited Niagara Falls for at least one weekend. And we always love it!

Niagara Falls is an hour’s drive from Hamilton and an hour and a half from Toronto. Read more: The Best Things to do in Niagara Falls

Best accommodation option in Niagara Falls – This town offers many great accommodation options, many of which provide waterfall views.  Niagara Falls Marriott Fallsview Hotel & Spa  is a good one, and we’ll attach a link here if you’d like to take a look. Read more: Where to Stay in Niagara Falls – Best Areas

6. Grand Bend

Grand Bend is another small-town gem, perfect for a getaway. My family had a cottage here growing up and my parents retired here for about 10 years, so we know Grand Bend well. Plus, I spent a season at Huron Country Playhouse singing in one of their shows. This place is rockin’!

Set on the shores of Lake Huron, Grand Bend town lives and breathes anything water-related. You could go swimming, kayaking, or mix things up with a parasailing experience. Its beach is always packed with people and activities. Check out: 25 Best Places to Camp in Ontario, Canada

There’s also Pinery Provincial Park to enjoy, which we will chat about further down. The town is approximately two hours from Hamilton and one hour from Windsor and is ideally situated for a relaxing getaway. You can book this guided day tour to Pinery Provincial Park on the shores of Lake Huron and then explore the beach town of Grand Bend.

Best accommodation option in Grand Bend – Amber Hotel is the best accommodation option and is an excellent mid-range choice. You can check the property out on TripAdvisor here.

Toronto has the best city scene in Ontario and we called it home for 20 years. Its cityscape is recognized worldwide – from the CN Tower to its famed Lake Ontario waterfront. Check out all the top activities in Toronto and book a day tour here. You can choose from the CN Tower to Toronto Islands, Casa Loma and more. Browse tours here.

If you want one of Ontario’s most iconic weekend getaways, Toronto is easily one of the top three. As the province’s metropolis capital, it has stacks and stacks of things to do and is a breeze to access by flight.

You can check out amazing restaurants with multi-course meals, historic buildings like the parliament buildings, and delicious local craft beer at bars across the city. Plus, there are museums like the Royal Ontario Museum (ROM) and the Railway Museum. Get your entry ticket here to the ROM and other Toronto Museums.

Check out more at The Best Things to Do in Toronto – A Guide to the Top Attractions

Best accommodation option in Toronto – There are many fantastic accommodation options in Toronto, but the Ritz Carlton is our favorite. It’s close to Roy Thompson Hall and the Princess of Wales Theatre, The CN Tower, the Entertainment District, and Harbourfront.

If you are looking for more affordable accommodations, The Chelsea is located at Dundas Square and is central to everything. Plus, it’s where we spent our honeymoon night 25 years ago! Don’t worry, it’s been renovated since. Read more: Where to Stay in Toronto – A Guide to the Best Neighborhoods

8. Kingston

The former capital of Canada is an amazing weekend trip. This small city on Lake Ontario, The Rideau Canal, and the St. Lawrence River is filled with historic charm, fine dining, and nightlife. Located just a three-hour drive from Toronto or two hours and twenty minutes by train.

Kingston is one of the few weekend getaways linked to a major city with public transport in Ontario – so jot it down if you don’t drive or don’t want to rent a car. The city is nicknamed the ‘limestone city’ after its signature limestone architecture. It is a stunning place to just explore on foot.

We’ve planned a full ultimate  itinerary for Kingston . So follow that to make your own weekend getaway perfect. You can also book Kingston day tours here . Choose from Thousand Island Cruise, helicopter flights or a haunted walking tour. More details here.

As a quick note, make sure to visit Kingston Penitentiary, Agnes Etherington Art Centre, Bellevue House National Historic Site, and Murney Tower National Historic Site of Canada. Read more: Things to do in Kingston – Don’t Miss This Ontario Gem

Best accommodation option in Kingston – There are lots of options when looking for places to stay in Kingston.  Delta Hotels by Marriott Kingston Waterfront  is beautiful, though. The three-star hotel features an indoor rooftop pool and an onsite restaurant.

For a romantic weekend, we recommend Secret Garden Inn , a beautiful boutique manor home is located within walking distance from the waterfront, Princess Street, and many of Kingston’s top attractions it is a great choice to stay and the breakfasts are delicious.  

Elora is another of our favorite small towns and is best known for its 19th-century architecture and striking limestone buildings. The town was founded by Roman Catholic missionaries, and its name translates as ‘sun ray’ or ‘god is my light’ in Hebrew.

Today it remains enticing for visitors wanting a romantic getaway to a pretty, small town. It is just an hour and a half from Toronto, so it is a straightforward destination to reach by car. Plus, my Great aunt lives there too!

Elora is also located next to Elora Gorge – a dramatic gorge cutting through cliffs with the Grand River running through the middle. You can admire the gorge from multiple viewpoints. If you feel nice and inspired afterward, go tubing or kayaking on a different section of the Grand River. Read more: 25 Day Trips from Toronto to Escape the City

Best accommodation option in Elora – The best accommodation option is  Elora Mill Hotel & Spa. The historic hotel is set in an old riverside mill and features rooms with a fireplaces, a full service spa, gym, and yoga facilities.

Wine Region Weekend Getaways in Ontario

There’s something special about visiting wine regions; wine tasting at top-rated vineyards is a romantic way to spend a weekend. These are the best wine regions to visit in Ontario for a weekend getaway. Get ready to sample some stunning wines.

10. Lake Erie North Shore

Did you know that Lake Erie and Pelee Island are at the same latitude as Tuscany in Italy and Bordeaux in France? The Southern Ontario region is the oldest wine-producing area in Canada. The first winery opened in 1866. Since then, the region has been carving an ever-growing name for itself in the international wine industry.

Some of the best wineries are Pelee Island Winery Pavillion, Copper’s Hawk Vineyards, Viewpointe Estate Winery, and Mastronardi Estate Winery. Sprucewood Shores Estate Winery is also Ontario’s only beachfront winery – a unique selling point, you’ll agree. The variety of vineyards makes Lake Erie North Shore a wonderful weekend trip. Depending on which area you visit in the region, you can either drive a short distance from London or a few hours from Hamilton or Toronto.

Plus, this was my stomping grounds as a teenager. I’d wash my car every Sunday morning and cruise the beaches of Lake Eerie with my friends Lorri and Kathy for hours on end. Dave and I still head out for Sunday drives to this part of Ontario on a regular basis.

Best accommodation option in Lake Erie North Shore – The region covers such a span of towns and different hotels that this is a hard choice.  Retro Suites Hotel  is located in the center of Chatham, just a short walk from the Chatham Downtown Mall and Milner Heritage Home. Guests get complimentary breakfast on weekdays, a gym pass, and a golf course pass. Plus, you are just a ten-minute drive from Early Acres Estate Winery.

11. The Niagara Peninsula

When you think of Niagara Getaways, your mind very likely jumps to Niagara Falls. Draw your mind away from images of crashing waterfalls. Instead, picture a glass of Riesling, pinot noir, or even a chardonnay if you wish. The Niagara Peninsula is home to over fifty wineries and is one of Ontario’s most prolific wine-producing regions.

Some of the best wineries are Inniskillin, Peller Estates, Calamus Estate Winery, King’s Court Estate Winery, and Flat Rock Cellars. If you want a  romantic getaway , book a wine tour and a relaxing hotel for you and your significant other. The best part about the Niagara Peninsula is that it’s on the doorstep of major cities like Hamilton and Mississauga. It is one of the most accessible weekend getaways in Ontario.

Best accommodation option in the Niagara Peninsula – There are plenty of luxurious AirBnBs in Niagara on the Lake.  This one is a lovely cottage  that is two blocks from downtown’s main street of Niagara on teh Lake.

For a modest budget, A Vineyard View Bed and Breakfast  ticks many impressive boxes. The Victorian B&B has a stunning communal patio with vineyard views, and select bedrooms overlook private views of the unique scenery.

12. Hamilton’s Region of the Niagara Escarpment

The Niagara Escarpment is a long slope, and it is famed as Niagara Falls falls over one part of the escarpment. It actually spreads throughout Canada and the United States. Still, for the purpose of this section, we will be concentrating specifically on Hamilton’s section.

Hamilton’s section of the escarpment is a fantastic Ontario weekend getaway. The region is prime for fruit growing, making it ideal for wine production – plus, it lies in the accessible shadow of many major cities.

Best accommodation option in Niagara Escarpment (Hamilton Area) – You can make a base in Burlington to explore the Hamilton portion of the Niagara Escarpment and we recommend The Pearl Hotel & Spa is Burlington’s latest luxury escape that is perfect for pampering. Located directly on the waterfront with beautiful views of Lake Ontario, 

Resort Weekend Getaways in Ontario

A resort getaway ticks a box that not much else can. These are the best resorts for weekend getaways in Ontario.

13. Sir Sam’s Inn and Spa

For the ultimate romantic getaway in Ontario, consider booking a couples retreat. Sir Sam’s Inn and Spa is a relaxing weekend getaway in a dramatic stone-and-timber mansion. The resort features every luxury – from an indoor water spa to an outdoor heated pool with Eagle Lake views to snowmobile parking and private fireplaces. There is also a fine dining restaurant located directly onsite.

And when you aren’t enjoying outdoor activities around  Haliburton , you can enjoy complimentary spa access. Sir Sam’s is a three and a half hour’s drive from Ottawa, so well-placed for a weekend of luxury.

You can enjoy hiking and boating in the summer and snowmobiling and cross country skiing in the winter. Haliburton is a beautiful small town in Ontario and you can visit our friend Dana’s gorgeous photography studio to pick up stunning metal prints of the Haliburton region. Book your weekend getaway here

14. Fern Resort

Fern Resort in Orillia is a beautiful family-friendly resort but also romantic for couples too to choose from in Ontario. The resort sits next to Lake Couchiching, and its all-inclusive package includes complimentary meals and activities. You can explore the local area or enjoy onsite entertainment like cross-country skiing, giant chess, a spa, or ice skating.

Fern Resort is just under a two-hour drive from Toronto. It is ideal for those wanting an action-packed, family-friendly resort experience. See more details here .

15. Couples Resort

Looking for a romantic Ontario weekend getaway? Couples Resort is a beautiful resort, only open to couples and situated overlooking Galeairy Lake in Algonquin Park. The all-inclusive package includes breakfast, five-course dinners, activities like horse riding and ice skating, and access to facilities like a saltwater swimming pool.

Being in the middle of nature there are plenty of hiking trails, paddling and canoe options in the summer with cross-country skiing and snowshoeing in the winter. We visited this pre-pandemic and see that it is now a bit rundown now. Hopefully, by the 2023 season they will have given it a refresh because we loved its tranquil setting that was perfect for a romantic getaway.

The resort is three hours from Ottawa or nearly four hours from Toronto. If you want somewhere surrounded by Canadian wilderness, Couples Resort is the one. See more availabiltiy and rates on TripAdvisor

16. Deerhurst Resort

Deerhurst is an upscale resort with a lot to offer. The Ontario resort is tucked up near the Hidden Valley Highlands. Come winter, it is an ideal base for a ski holiday. For the rest of the year, though, Deerhurst Resort stands out for its two golf courses, hot tub, spa, and outdoor activities. It is also one of the most romantic places in winter.

Deerhurst is a flexible weekend getaway; it can be considered family-friendly or one of the best romantic weekend getaways – it’s up to you to decide which. Deerhurst is a two-and-a-half-hour drive from Toronto, so nice and feasible as a weekend base. Check out details here.

• Deerhurst Resort in Huntsville is 2 hours and 45 minutes drive  from Toronto
• You can book a weekend stay at  Deerhurst Resort.

17. Cedar Grove Lodge

We loved our romantic escape to Cedar Grove Lodge in Huntsville. What could be more romantic than booking your own log cabin in the woods? Snuggling up by the fire in the snowy landscape is one of the most romantic places in Ontario. There are plenty of things to do in Huntsville to keep you busy as well. Things to do in Muskoka in Winter

Cedar Grove Lodge is located on 150 feet of lakefront property on  Peninsula Lake. Each room has its own wood-burning fireplace and this romantic retreat has all-inclusive packages where you can eat three meals a day in the dining room. Check availability and rates for Cedar Grove on TripAdvisor

18. Severn Lodge

Severn Lodge is a lovely lakeside resort on the shores of Glouster Pool in Port Severn Township. The property dates back to the 1800s and still has traditional features like beamed ceilings and historical decor. Severn Lodge’s facilities are as extra as it gets, including a heated pool, onsite beach, private dock, and patios or balconies overlooking the lake.

Severn Lodge is just forty minutes by car from Barrie and two hours from Toronto. It is the ideal weekend getaway for anyone wanting a traditional, historical base for a few days. Make reservations here.

18. Idlewyld Inn and Spa

Idlewyld Inn and Spa is the number one destination for an elegant weekend getaway in Western Ontaro. Located in London Ontario Idelwyld Inn and Spa is set in a classic mansion, the property features a full-service spa, onsite restaurant, courtyard garden, and stained glass windows throughout. It is perfect for anyone wanting an inspiring property for a relaxing city break. Get ready to step back in time.

Apart from its facilities, Idlewyld Inn and Spa also offers an all-inclusive package with a complimentary breakfast. And located in the heart of London, it is a deluxe base for a city break. See more details here.

19. Langdon Hall – Cambridge

Another complete Romantic Ontario getaway is Langdon Hall in Cambridge. My friend Kelly had her wedding here and we had the chance to experience the spa and luxury fireplace suites. This hotel is one of the most romantic places in Ontario.

This property has the distinction of being recognized by Relais & Châteaux for a standard of excellence. The Five Diamond dining experience is the perfect romantic evening out and its spa packages include a half-day retreat of a Swedish massage, facials, and manicure and pedicure. Add a glass of champagne and lunch and you have a full day of luxury with the one you love. There is a huge hot tub, saunas, and steam rooms to chill out in for the afternoon. 

One thing we are very thrilled to share is that Langdon Hall has partnered with The Keep Refillery to become the first hotel in Ontario to have an in-house refillery. They have overhauled their in-room amenities to a more sustainable model by refilling in-room essentials such as shampoo, conditioner, body wash, body lotion, shower steams and bath bombs. This move will keep 2000 bottles out of landfills this year. Compare prices on TripAdvisor

Part 4 – Family Getaways in Ontario

Ontario is fantastic for family fun. The whole state is excellent for families that love adventure and bonding time, with lots of green spaces, children’s attractions, and great accommodation options. But some places are even more exciting and special for families than others. We’ve picked these extra-special places for our next section; these are the best family weekend getaways in Ontario.

20. Blue Mountain Ski Resort

Blue Mountain Resort is one of the most adventurous and romantic getaways. We put this under family Ontario getaways because there is so much to do. But Dave and I have had many romantic getaways here on our own in Blue Mountain. So, it has the best of both worlds!

Blue Mountain resort and village is a year round retreat and, in winter, offers skiing and snowboarding galore. When you aren’t zipping down the slopes, you can be in the spa soaking in an outdoor hot tub or enjoying one of the great restaurants onsite.

Blue Mountain Village, is just over a two-hour drive from Toronto and is  full of things to do . It is a short, pleasant drive easily factored into a weekend trip. And Blue Mountain Resort is perfect for any avid snow sports lovers.

In the Winter, we love to stay at the  Blue Mountain Inn  Slopeside.  It is located directly at our favourite black diamond runs.

In the summer our choices are the gorgeous  Westin Trillium House ,  located at Millpond overlooking Blue Mountain Village it’s set a little away from the crowds of the village. But we are also fans of the Mosaic Boutique Suites smack dab in the center of the Blue Mountains. Its year-round heated outdoor pool and hot tub is to die for.

21. Great Wolf Lodge Water Park Resort

Great Wolf Lodge is a magical weekend getaway. The four-star property is amazing for anyone who wants a fun-filled, action-packed holiday in Ontario. Great Wolf Lodge has an all-inclusive package with unlimited access to its onsite indoor water park, 24/7 entertainment, and ultra-speed wifi.

Situated in Niagara Falls, Great Wolf Lodge is an ideal base to visit Canada’s most famed waterfall and make the most of a fantastic all-inclusive package. It is only a short drive from cities like Hamilton and Toronto. I have stayed here before but for some reason I couldn’t find a picture. We had the good fortune of staying at Great Wolf Lodge when I worked for YTV and had a blast in its waterpark. Check prices and reservations here.

22. Collingwood

Collingwood is an action-packed weekend getaway for families. In the summer, you can explore limestone caves, and in the ski season, you can get all your family zipping down the slopes. Collingwood has plenty of indoor attractions for rainy days, including the Collingwood Museum, Butter Gallery, and multiple theaters. There are also more challenging adventures for older children, like ATV adventure tours, snorkeling tours, and off-roading. Collingwood is just under two hours from Toronto by car, too, so families will find it feasible to reach.

Best accommodation option in Collingwood

The best accommodation option in Collingwood is The Living Water Resrot and Spa . It is walking distance to historic downtown collingwood, it has an indoor pool plus indoor and outdoor hot tubs and Collingwood’s only waterfront restaurant. A more affordable option is the Days in by Wyndham.

23. Hamilton

Hamilton needs little introduction, and the major city in Southern Ontario has already been mentioned in this guide as a reference point. However, Hamilton is also an ideal family weekend getaway. One of the coolest activities in Hamilton is the exotic super car driving experience. Get behind the wheel of your dream car on a test drive adventure.

The city is smaller than Toronto and packed with kid-friendly activities like Spencer Smith Park, lots of short waterfall walks, and the beloved Theodore Tugboat tours. You can easily head to rural sections for outdoor activities and are just a short drive from Niagara Falls. Read more: The Best Things to do in Hamilton, Ontario

Best accommodation option in Hamilton – The best family-friendly option in Hamilton is Staybridge Suites Hamilton Downtown

24. Peterborough

Peterborough sits just off the Otonabee River and perfectly treads the line between urban and residential suburban. You’ll find it much cheaper to visit Peterborough than Toronto, and the friendly downtown atmosphere and price tags are perfect for families covering lots of heads.

On a weekend getaway, you’ll have any attractions to tick off – including the Canadian Canoe Museum, Peterborough Museum, a rock climbing center, and Riverview Park. The attractions are just a short walk apart – handy for those little legs. Toronto is just an hour and twenty minutes away by car as well.

Best accommodation option in Peterborough – Peterborough’s best accommodation for families is Holiday Inn Peterborough-Waterfront. The property has a policy where children 19 and under stay free with an adult, and kids 12 and under eat free.

25. Sauble Beach

Sauble Beach is a fantastic destination for a family weekend getaway. The quaint town is a tiny beach community on the shores of Lake Huron. Its calm, shallow waters are perfect for younger children to learn to swim and older children to hone their water skills.

After you’ve spent a day swimming, Ascent Aerial Park is a great family attraction. You can tackle a high ropes course for some quality bonding. There’s also Sauble Falls Provincial Park to hike and fish in. Plus, Toronto is just under a three-hour drive away.

Best accommodation option in Sauble Beach – It’s a tough call, but Sauble Beach’s best accommodation is Bel-Air Motel & Cottages. The property is family-orientated, with a playground, fire pits, basketball hoops, and BBQ facilities to enjoy.

Part 5 – Outdoor Weekend Getaways in Ontario

Do you want a weekend getaway where you can enjoy rolling hills and wildlife? Are you looking to getaway from the hustle and bustle of life? Ontario has amazing national parks and provincial parks that are open all year long. So even if it is winter, put on your parka, cozy up by the fire or head out for some cross country skiing and snowshoeing. In summer, take advantage of all the pristine hiking and biking trails and some of the best wildlife spotting on earth.

26. Algonquin Provincial Park

Algonquin Provincial Park is heaven on Earth for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. The park is over a whopping 1.9 million acres of natural beauty and full of marked hiking trails and campsites – making it an accessible, beginner-friendly outdoor getaway in Ontario. Read more: Most Beautiful National Parks in Canada

Its famous trails, like Lookout Trail and Centennial Ridges Trail, are perfect scenic hikes to squeeze into a weekend itinerary. Think of minimal time commitment but extremely high reward. In winter, there are dog sled tours and snow activities. And you have attractions like the Algonquin Logging Museum and Algonquin Art Centre all year round if you fancy a bit of culture.

Algonquin Park is just a three-hour drive from Ottawa and three and a half hours from Toronto, so it is easily reached from a major city. If you don’t have your own car, you can arrange a car rental from one of the many car rental companies in the cities and drive yourself to the park.

Best accommodation option in Algonquin Provincial Park – When you visit on a weekend getaway, make sure to book a campsite in advance for that ultimate wilderness experience. But, if you want a bit of extra luxury,  Killarney Lodge  is an all-inclusive park hotel with rustic lakeside cabins – well worth a look at.

27. Sandbanks Provincial Park

Sandbanks Provincial Park offers some of the best sand beaches in all of Ontario. It is one of the best weekend getaways for a stunning coastline and pristine white beaches, and it has plenty of hiking trails under its belt. You could spend weeks in Sandbanks Park, although a day or two will have to do.

The best things to do in Sandbanks Park are visiting Dunes Beach and Outlet Beach, but Cedar Sands Nature trail is a short walk worth an itinerary spot. This trail follows the Outlet River and has beautiful marshland viewpoints.

Sandbanks is two hours and twenty minutes by car from Toronto, so it is easy to reach if you rent a car. The route is scenic too, and you’ll skirt along the north shores of Lake Ontario and its little lakeside towns.

Best accommodation option in Sandbanks – There is a high-quality handful of fantastic accommodation options in Sandbanks Park. The best is  Log Cabin Point Cottage Resort.  The 1830s log cabin has traditional features like a wood-burning stove and a claw foot tub. And you can even rent a boat or bike for your stay.

28. Pinery Provincial Park

Pinery Park is a wonderful weekend getaway in Ontario. The beautiful coastal park is located on the shores of Lake Huron and is over 6,000 acres in size.

It is home to gorgeous beaches and a protected forest that houses numerous endangered flora and fauna species. Opened to the public in 1959, Pinery Park is a much-loved park in Southern Ontario and a well-known outdoor getaway.

It has a 14km biking trail called the Savanna Trail that cyclists will love. There are also water activities like fishing and canoeing on offer. Pinery Park is a compact area with many activities and things to do, making it an ideal weekend trip. It is also a fifty-minute drive from London and just over two hours from Hamilton – extremely feasible driving distances.

Best accommodation option – Most accommodation options are scattered around Pinery Park, just outside the park boundaries.  Port Franks Getaway  is one of the closest and best options. A luxury, adults-only wellness retreat, it offers homely facilities just a stone’s throw from the park. In the summer months the Pinery is one of the best places for camping in Ontario.

29. French River Provincial Park

French River Provincial Park is another of our fabulous Ontario weekend getaways. The park is mainly situated around the French River (as you may have guessed from the name), which was the first-ever Canadian Heritage River. This is a weekend trip best appreciated by canoe or kayak.

There is over 105 km of canoe route to enjoy and explore. The trail stretches from Lake Nipissing to Georgian Bay, incorporating lakes, rapids, and gorges for the ultimate fun-filled weekend.

You can also use riverside hiking trails like the Recollet Falls Trail. The park is just a fifty-minute drive from the city of Sudbury and a three-and-a-half-hour drive from Toronto, so a fantastic weekend getaway if you love water activities.

Don’t have a car? Book this day trip from Toronto to hike one of the most beautiful hiking trails in Ontario, The Crack. You will also visit the suspension bridge at French River Provincial Park.

Best accommodation option in French River Provincial Park

The best accommodation option in French River Park is  Great Escape Cabins. The one or two-bedroom cabins are set right next to the river and make for a scenic base when visiting the park.

30. Batchawana Bay Provincial Park

Batchawana Bay Provincial Park is a fantastic weekend getaway and is a 418-acre lakeside park with gorgeous beaches. You’ll have lots to do, whether you enjoy water activities on Lake Superior, relax on the beaches, or get active on the local trails.

Batchawana Bay Park is a fifty-minute drive from Sault Ste Marie, a small city with fantastic mountain biking trails. If you love mountain biking, check out the Berm Baby Berm or Bee Sting trails.

Batchawan Bay is about an 8 hour drive from Toronto so this is best for a long weekend getaway in Ontario

Best accommodation option in Batchawana Bay – If you fancy going RV camping, Wild Rose RV Park is a fantastic seasonal option. If you prefer resorts, Sunset Shores Resort offers cabins just outside the park. Check rates and availaibity

31. Bruce Peninsula National Park

Bruce Peninsula Park is over 30,000 acres in size and is an absolute haven for outdoor enthusiasts. You’ll be well entertained, from swimming and bouldering to backcountry camping opportunities.

The park straddles the famed Niagara Escarpment and Georgian Bay coastline to enjoy – making Bruce Peninsula Park one of the most diverse places for a weekend getaway.

The best thing to do in the park is to visit its natural attractions, like Flowerpot Island, Little Cove, and Fathom Five National Marine Park.

You can book a day trip from Toronto to Tobermory. This tour includes a guide and driver that takes you to visit the lighthouse and hiking to see the beautiful cliffs of Georgian Bay. You’ll visit The Grotto, Indian Head Cove and Marr Lake.

Bruce Peninsula Park is surrounded by little towns, including Tobermory (read our  guide on things to do in Tobermory ). From Toronto, it is a three-and-a-half-hour drive. It’s ideal for a weekend trip and is surrounded by towns with urban amenities.

Best accommodation option in Bruce Peninsula – One of the best ways to book accommodation in Tobermory is to book vacation rentals. You can look for accommodation on TripAdvisor – Tobermory . This  beautiful waterfront cottage  is 5km from downtown Tobermory. It offers kayaking and beautiful views for sunset.

Camping is one of the best options for accommodation in Tobermory in the summer.  Tobermory Village Campground  or  Cyprus Lake Campground . The campground has many facilities, including showers, flush toilets, and drinkable water. It is an excellent base for an outdoor adventure.

32. Pukaskwa National Park

Pukaskwa National Park is a 460-acre park on the shores of Lake Superior. It is the perfect destination for beginner-friendly water activities, hiking, and camping – especially if you want to get away from the busier parks around Toronto.

Visitors should definitely make time to hike the Bimose Kinoomagewnan Trail. This trail is essential to indigenous Anishinaabe culture and is an excellent mix of cultural and outdoor activity. Read more: The Wild Coastal Trail of Pukaskwa National Park

Like Bruce Peninsula Park, Pukaskwa is quite far from major cities. It will take around eleven hours to reach Pukaskwa from Winnipeg or Toronto. Pukaskwa is perfect for road trip lovers .

Best accommodation option in Pukaskwa NP – The best accommodation in Pukaskwa is  Pic River Guest Suite . The property is the closest option to the park unless you want to camp and is beautifully situated overlooking the river. You also have the choice to purchase yoga and canoeing packages.

For more Ontario inspiration, you can check out our guides on the  best places to visit  and  things to do  across the province. We also have a special guide on the  best things to do  when visiting Ontario in winter and another on the province’s  best hiking trails .

It’s easy to see that you won’t be short of weekend getaways in Ontario. Whether you want charming towns with great restaurants, family-friendly destinations with entertaining attractions, or remote wilderness getaways, Ontario has an option for you.

It is safe to say that we love Ontario, and we bet you will too when you try these weekend getaways. Have a fantastic experience.

• The Greatest Things to do in Winter in Ontario
• Romantic Ontario Getaways – The Best Couples resorts and Destinations
• Top 15 Ontario Hiking Trails
• 22 Most Epic and Thrilling Things to do in Ontario
• Best Places to See the Northern Lights in Ontario
• 9 VALENTINE’S DAY GETAWAYS IN ONTARIO, CANADA
• 35 Iconic Places to Visit in Ontario, Canada

Travel Planning Resources

Looking to book your next trip? Why not use these resources that are tried and tested by yours truly.

Flights: Start planning your trip by finding the best flight deals on Skyscanner

Book your Hotel: Find the best prices on hotels with these two providers. If you are located in Europe use Booking.com and if you are anywhere else use TripAdvisor

Find Apartment Rentals: You will find the cheapest prices on apartment rentals with VRBO . 

Travel Insurance: Don't leave home without it. Here is what we recommend:

• Allianz - Occasional Travelers.
• Medjet - Global air medical transport and travel security.

Need more help planning your trip? Make sure to check out our Resources Page where we highlight all the great companies that we trust when we are traveling.

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9 of the Best Places In Ontario To Visit With The Entire Family

Canada is the second-largest country in the world, with a population of about 38 million. The second-largest province in Canada is Ontario, which is enormous. It can take months to explore all the beautiful landmarks, picturesque towns, historical wonders, all of delicious multicultural cuisine and experience the incredible culture and great outdoor adventures in Ontario. This guide explores the best places in Ontario that you could visit with the whole family, including the CN Tower, Casa Loma, and the Historic Fort Willow. It will be the experience of a lifetime. So, put on your parkas and get ready for an adventure!

Family-Friendly Places In Ontario

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Toronto’s most famous and popular landmark, the 553-meter CN Tower, is one of the most incredible places in Ontario to visit. From almost anywhere in the city, you can see this Canadian icon looming above downtown. You can view this Canadian icon from the street or take a trip up to one of the observation decks to get a breathtaking view of Lake Ontario. Once known as the tallest freestanding structure in the world, the CN Tower was built between 1972 and 1976 and cost $63 million.

The highest vantage point on the tower is from the Sky Pod, located 447 meters above the city, with views that extend to Niagara Falls and New York State. There are glass-fronted elevators in the tower that also have glass floor panels. This speedy elevator reaches the top in 58 seconds! The CN Tower has floor-to-ceiling windows and a Glass Floor, which provides a bird’s-eye view of Toronto. The LookOut level is 346 meters above the ground and has an outdoor sky terrace for adventurous souls.

The Edge Walk is for those looking for a bigger thrill and wanting to get their adrenaline pumping. Walking along the 365-meter-high ledge surrounded by the central pod is completely hands-free. Visitors are attached to a safety harness and rope. It’s the highest external walk on a building in the world, which will have you clinging to the outside of the structure. A trip to the CN Tower will make lasting memories you will cherish forever and needs to be on your list of places in Ontario you have to visit.

In the revolving 360 Restaurant at 351 meters, you can enjoy fine dining while taking in the breathtaking view. To complete one full revolution, it takes the 360 Restaurant 72 minutes. The fantastic 360 offers lunch and dinner, as well as complimentary access to the tower’s LookOut and Glass Floor levels. The food is pricey but delicious! Enjoy their Saffron, Lemongrass Risotto, Flat Iron Steak, and delectable dessert Coconut Crème Brûlée. It’s the perfect place for date night!

Interesting Facts:  The CN Tower remains the tallest freestanding structure in the Western Hemisphere, the ninth tallest free-standing structure on land, and the third tallest tower in the world.

If you’re a nature lover, Tobermory is one of the best places in Ontario and the world. In addition, it’s the ideal weekend getaway located only four hours northwest of Toronto. There’s no better destination for people who like to escape the noise and traffic of the big city. Tobermory is a scenic harbor town surrounded by crystal-clear water with towering cliffs and islands. It is one of the most magnificent spots in the Bruce Peninsula and should be on your list of places in Ontario to visit.

Tobermory has a lot of fun activities that the whole family would enjoy. For example, take a 1 hour and 30-minute tour on the glass bottom boat “Great Blue Heron.” This tour will take you to Tobermory’s other harbor, marked by the Big Tub Lighthouse, and you can view a 19th-century shipwreck. Then you will cruise through the Devil Island Channel and the narrow channel between Cove Island and Otter Island. Guests also have an opportunity to photograph the world-famous Flowerpots at Flowerpot Island.

Interesting Facts:  Scuba diving is a popular activity in Tobermory due to the numerous shipwrecks in the surrounding waters, particularly in Fathom Five National Marine Park. 

Relax in cozy waterfront cottages, eat fresh local whitefish, and gaze at the Milky Way without a telescope. Tourists also enjoy the Grotto, a huge cave formed by the waves of Georgian Bay over thousands of years. Equipped with an underwater tunnel you can swim in, it is quite a remarkable sight. The beauty of Tobermory makes an excellent backdrop for TV shows. For example, the BBC chose Tobermory as the location of the popular children’s television series Balamory.

Read More: 10 Remarkable Benefits From A Trip To Canada

Casa loma .

An extraordinary medieval-style building set on a beautiful landscape, Casa Loma (Spanish for “Hill House”) resembles a castle from the Middle Ages. This magnificent seven-story structure was constructed by the architect E. J. Lennox in 1914 for Sir Henry Pellatt, an eccentric Canadian millionaire.  The total floor area of the castle is 64,700 square feet. It’s now a museum with 100 rooms, including three dozen bathrooms. It is a place where visitors can travel back in time and feel they are on the set of the popular Netflix show, Bridgerton.

This castle has seven floors and five acres of estate gardens, decorated suites, lavish fountains, secret passages, one-of-a-kind sculptures, an 800-foot tunnel, towers, stables, and a tunnel leading to the castle. Casa Loma is also the perfect venue to host weddings, and the costs during peak season can run up to a whopping $25,000. It’s also one of the most famous places in Ontario for private events and movie shoots , including The Pacifier, Titans,   X-Men, Chicago, The Tuxedo, Scott Pilgrim vs. the World, and Crimson Peak.

Interesting Facts:  Sir Henry Pellatt not only had Casa Loma built, but was also the first to recognize and exploit Niagara Falls’ money-making potential. He was the first to profit from its development.

Rock Island Lodge

Situated on Lake Superior’s wilderness coast near Wawa, Rock Island is one of the places in Ontario to go for an action-packed getaway that will nourish the adventurer’s soul and relax nature enthusiasts. Rock Island Lodge provides quaint bed-and-breakfast-style accommodations with views of Lake Superior.

Rock Island is a private, seven-acre peninsula with many thrilling activities and learning experiences , including a sea kayak adventure, paddling a canoe, stand-up paddleboarding, guided day trips, or taking a journey by a historic journey voyageur canoe. However, suppose you prefer to avoid an adventure? No problem! The resort also offers art, photography, and yoga workshops.

In addition, the serene beaches are the perfect settings for intimate outdoor weddings and quiet conference facilities for nature-inspired corporate retreats. Finally, if you love being one with nature and enjoy camping, the lodge offers glamping in its waterfront geodesic dome from mid-May to late October.

Interesting Facts:  The magnificent Rock Island Lodge offers the only waterfront accommodations for over 250 miles on the Lake Superior Circle Tour.

Rideau Canal

The beautiful capital city of Canada, Ottawa, is connected to the city of Kingston on Lake Ontario by the 200-kilometer Rideau Canal, which is 1.6 meters deep. Although initially, this canal was designed as a strategic military route between the Ottawa River and Lake Ontario, it is also known as the Rideau Waterway.

The Rideau Canal is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. In the summer, locals & tourists enjoy the canal by taking tours on cruise boats and renting houseboats, pontoon boats, canoes, and kayaks. Once the water freezes, the canal becomes an excellent skating area in Ottawa; it is one of the best places in Ontario to skate during the winter.

If you are looking for luxurious accommodations, the Fairmont Château Laurier is one of the most breathtaking hotels in the canal bank area. It is 660,000 square-foot with 429 guest rooms. This hotel was built in 1912 and looked like a castle from medieval times. It was constructed by a prominent Canadian railroad company and is considered a Canadian landmark.

Interesting Facts:  Canada’s Rideau Canal was opened in 1832, making it the oldest continuous canal system in North America.

Read More: 10 Of The Best Slopes For Skiing in Canada

Historic fort willow.

The site of Historic Fort Willow has a population of 100. During the War of 1812, this once important area was established as a supply depot for British soldiers after centuries of use by Native Americans and European explorers and traders who called it the Nine Mile Portage. Fort Willow and the Nine Mile Portage are recognized​ as provincial and national historic sites. Even though not much of the old fort is left today, many interesting displays and exhibits provide a glimpse of the buildings that once stood there and the people who lived and worked there.

Historic Fort Willow hosts the “Festival at Fort Willow” where visitors experience what life was like pre-European contact. During this festival, reenactors will wear historically accurate clothing and demonstrate life as it was in those days. Visitors make candles, learn about Indigenous trade with Europeans, understand how sailors work on ships, watch woodcarvers demonstrate live wood carving, and learn about Indigenous gardening practices from the Barrie Garden Club. There are also opportunities to learn about traditional blacksmithing, march with the King’s army, and listen to the cannons roar and muskets fire. This is one example of places in Ontario that have a rich history and are so interesting to learn about.

Historic Fort Willow is also famous for its ghosts. Many paranormal investigators and locals have heard ghostly gunshots throughout the fort, and rumors are a young soldier was sentenced to death for deserting the war of 1812. His restless spirit still haunts the ground.

Fantasy Fair  

Fantasy Fair is the largest indoor amusement park in Ontario. It is located in the Woodbine Shopping Centre and is one of the most exciting places in Ontario to take kids when they want to have fun.

Fantasy Fair has 12 full-size rides & attractions, including a kids’ antique carousel, a crystal kaleidoscope Ferris wheel, a climbing wall, ships ahoy (spinning cups), midway games, and bumper cars. There is also a fun play area for the young kids called Dreamer’s Play Village and the exciting XD Simulator ride for the older kids who enjoy thrilling rides. Purchase a family pass (family of four) for only $95 for unlimited ride access.

Your kids can easily spend an entire day and ride the Fantasy Fair Express train throughout the amusement park. Remember to grab a bite at the food court or stroll the attached Woodbine shopping mall.

Interesting Facts:  Since opening in 1985, Fantasy Fair has served more than eight million visitors.

The Royal Canadian Mint

The pride of Canada and one of the most prestigious places in Ontario is the Royal Canadian Mint. The Ottawa Mint, founded in 1908, produces more than one billion coins annually, including the Silver Maple Leaf. In 2007, the Royal Canadian Mint was featured in the Guinness Book of World Records for issuing a 100 kg, 99.999% pure, $1 million gold bullion coin that was the largest in the world. As well as manufacturing circulation coins on behalf of other countries, the Mint produces all of Canada’s circulation coins.

There is no doubt that the Royal Mint is the biggest and most technologically advanced Mint in the world , which makes it one of the best places in Ontario to visit. Take a 45-minute fascinating guided educational tour of the Mint and learn how the coins are designed and other unique facts about the Mint. Before you leave the Royal Canadian Mint, check out their gift shop for unique gifts, including collector coins and other souvenirs.  

Interesting Facts:  The Royal Canadian Mint is among the world’s most well-recognized producers of collector coins, in addition to gold, silver, and platinum bullion coins, medals, and medallions. Coin collectors, take note when you’re considering places in Ontario to explore!

Manitoulin Island

Ontario’s best-kept secret is the breathtaking Manitoulin Island, the world’s largest freshwater island. Located on Lake Huron, this (1,167 square miles) is one of the best places in Ontario and has some of Ontario’s most iconic landmarks like the Kicking Mule Ranch, Bridal Veil Falls, Strawberry Island Lighthouse, Little Current Lighthouse, Chi-Cheemaun Ferry, and the Benjamin Islands. Visitors can also tour the steam-powered ferry, the SS Norisle, built-in 1946.

The island has many unique accommodations, including quaint bed & breakfasts, cabins, cottages, and tipis. Tourists enjoy cross-country skiing, ice fishing, snowmobiling, skating, and curling during the winter months. In Spring, people enjoy bird watching, hiking, and fishing. 

Take the Great Spirit Circle Tour and get to know the culture and traditions of the Anishinabek people living on Manitoulin Island, and then you will understand why this is one of the best places in Ontario to visit. They offer the best First Nation experiences on Manitoulin Island, like hiking the Cup and Saucer Trail, smudging ceremonies, storytelling, bareback horse rides, traditional dancing, and building your own miniature birch bark canoe and drum.

Interesting Facts:  Manitoulin Island is Canada’s 31st largest island, with 108 freshwater lakes.

Take your family on an adventure of a lifetime and jump into exploring these magnificent places in Ontario and create Instagram-worthy memories that you will cherish forever, eh! Tour this vast province and explore all the beauty of the most iconic places in Ontario, including Manitoulin Island and the pride of Canada, the Royal Mint in Ottawa. We hope this guide will help you plan your visit and introduce you to places in Ontario you’ve never heard of before! Enjoy the culture, cuisine, and beautiful landmarks spread across this expansive province.

WANT TO READ MORE?

Once you’ve explored all of the places in Ontario to visit, check out Kids Travel – 20 Amazing Destinations You Must Visit Before Your Child Turns 10 !

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Great Ideas for Weekend Getaways in Ontario (+ Mini Itineraries)

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There Are Plenty of Great Ideas for Weekend Getaways in Ontario!

If you’re looking for a weekend getaway in Ontario, you’re certainly in luck! Ontario is loaded with amazing places to visit , attractions to explore, and things to try so there is no shortage of weekend trip ideas.

No matter where you are travelling from – Ottawa, Toronto, etc – and whatever your style – romantic, fun, relaxing, adventure – there is a getaway for you.

We really like exploring Ontario on mini-vacations or weekend road trips since there are essentially endless options. While we usually travel as a couple, lots of the getaway ideas mentioned below can also work for families with kids or even groups of friends.

We’ve done our fair share of last-minute weekend getaways and still managed to find great ideas with nice accommodations for a good price!

So, whether you are looking for romantic getaways near Toronto or staycation getaway ideas that take you on an adventure, here are our detailed mini-weekend itineraries for you to enjoy.

From hiking and beaches to wineries or spas, here’s our detailed guide on some of the best weekend getaways in Ontario – in summer or winter!

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Relax at an Ontario Resort, Inn, or Spa

If you’ve been working hard and just want to get away and indulge in total relaxation, there are plenty of resort or inn-style accommodations in Ontario to do that!

Ontario has a nice mix of inns with spas as well as quiet lodge resorts that can take you away from the city and exchange it for nature. This goes for the summer or the winter season!

Below are a number of resorts and inns that you can have a look at. Many of these also make for a great girls’ weekend getaway in Ontario. You can find these accommodations all around the province from Niagara-on-the-Lake to Collingwood, the Ottawa Valley, Muskoka, and more.

We even have a whole guide dedicated to where to stay in Muskoka (with great resorts) if that is where you are looking to go. If you want great inns all around Ontario, we have also a round-up on the best inns in Ontario .

Blue Mountain Resort

As the largest ski resort in Ontario, Blue Mountain certainly has a reputation to be a fantastic weekend getaway in any season. If you’re looking to relax, they offer spa packages and bundles that are sure to make you forget the stressful work week.

If you want to head up to Collingwood for the weekend, you can stay right in the main village at Blue – and don’t forget about booking a time at the famous Scandinave Spa .

Pillar and Post Inn & Spa

For a great getaway inn/hotel located in a top wine region, head for the Pillar and Post Inn and Spa .

Located just a short walk from the heart of downtown Niagara-on-the-Lake, Eric has stayed here before and loved it. They have pools, onsite dining, and spa facilities.

Heather Lodge Inn

For a more remote and tranquil escape, head for Heather Lodge Inn . Located in Minden, this more lodge-style getaway is adults-only and offers onsite dining as well as boat rentals and canoeing.

The Haliburton Highlands are a great place for a getaway to reconnect with nature and enjoy peace and quiet.

JW Marriott at Lake Rosseau

Last but not least, you can have a classic Muskoka resort experience at The JW Marriott at Lake Rosseau . Perched on a granite bluff, the Marriott is a secluded resort tucked away in Ontario’s wilderness overlooking Lake Rosseau.

They offer spa packages for couples that include the usage of their “couples-designated” spa areas – making the JW a good stop for a spa weekend getaway in Ontario. Also good to note: This kind of weekend trip can be done in summer or in the winter!

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Discover one of Ontario’s Wine Regions

Did you know that Ontario is one of Canada’s top wine-producing areas? You’d be surprised how many didn’t! When it comes to producing great wine, we can thank the geography of the province.

The lakes, the soil, the geographical feature that is the Niagara Escarpment – there are so many factors that allow Ontario to make wine. And that means that you get to enjoy it!

We really like wine (and beer, for that matter) so it’s fun for us to go to wineries, learn about them, and enjoy a few tastings. Winery hopping can also be a part of a romantic weekend getaway in Ontario or a classic girls’ weekend getaway.

So if you are looking to indulge in the province through its wine and the locals who make it, here are a number of suggestions for top wine regions in Ontario. These also make for great fall getaway ideas since you get to enjoy the autumn colours and the harvest season!

Niagara on the Lake

Yes, Niagara on the Lake is first. This fertile area is a mecca for wine-making – and the greater Niagara Peninsula has even more wineries to visit. You can drive around to the dozens of Niagara on the Lake wineries or you can hop on a guided winery tour (recommended). There are many to visit but we like Ravine if you are looking for a suggestion. To make the most of the weekend, you should stay in Niagara-on-the-Lake (the historic town). That way, you can enjoy the town as well as the wineries around.

We like the Pillar and Post Inn and Spa but we also have a guide on Niagara on the Lake accommodations if you want to learn more!

Prince Edward County

Another great wine region is Prince Edward County. There are a number of wineries to visit like Sandbanks Estate or Trail Estate . There are dozens so check out our article on wineries in Prince Edward County . You can join a guided tour to the wineries but you can also drive or bike to them yourself. If you head for The County, there are lots of other things to do while on a weekend trip. You can stay in the town of Picton for easy accessibility to restaurants and shops. Stay at the Merrill House for a great location in Picton or the Newsroom Suites for a nice stay in the town of Wellington. We have a guide on where to stay in Prince Edward County if you are interested. Those interested in beer should read our PEC breweries and cideries guide !

Grey County

When people think about Ontario wine, many don’t know that the area just south of Georgian Bay – Grey County – is home to a number of wineries (as well as breweries and cideries). The vast amount of shoreline is also a nice draw to this region and makes for a lovely weekend getaway for couples in Ontario. With top stops like Coffin Ridge Vineyard & Winery and Mudtown Station Brewery and Restaurant in the heart of Owen Sound, it’s a great area to wander about.

The Inn at Cobble Beach makes for a wonderful getaway by the water.

Have an Outdoor Action Adventure

Considering Ontario is huge and full of different terrain – dense forests, tall cliffs, and raging rivers – there are lots of great locations in Ontario to get away and enjoy being a kid again in the outdoors.

Specifically, there are a number of adventure-based activities you can try out all over the province.

The nice thing about adventure getaways in Ontario is that there is a good offering of things to do in all seasons – so don’t think for a second you’re out of luck when it comes to weekend winter getaways in Ontario!

From treetop trekking in the summer to snow tubing and snowshoeing in the winter , check out these active weekend ideas.

Hardwood Hills Ski & Bike

If you’re keen on some physical activity, we suggest heading to Hardwood Hills . Just north of Toronto about two hours driving, this ski and bike facility offers over 80 kilometres of rolling trails through pine forests for mountain biking and cross-country skiing. They also offer disc golf, volleyball, hiking, and running. You can stay nearby in Oro-Medonte at Carriage Hills Resort which comes with its own amenities.

Horseshoe Valley

It may not be the largest ski hill in Ontario, but Horseshoe Valley Resort is a personal favourite. The grounds offer adventurers so many activities from treetop trekking and golf in the summer to skiing/snowboarding and having the longest snow tubing hill in Ontario in the winter. The nice thing about a weekend at Horseshoe is that you can book your stay close to where you get to play!

Rafting the Ottawa River

For an river rafting adventure, head north of Ottawa to either Wilderness Tours or Owl Rafting ! Eric went rafting with both of these companies before and both companies made for a super fun weekend getaway in Ontario. Both companies have a waterfront resorts with meals, bar, and accommodations (from camping to cabins and even select cottages) so you can stay overnight and make a whole weekend out of it after you enjoy the action-packed rafting tour.

Treetop Trekking in Huntsville

Back to the idea of adventure in the trees, Treetop Trekking (mentioned in Horseshoe Valley) also has a course up in Huntsville, too. The Huntsville location is just off of Highway 60 so it’s easy to get to. The area is beautiful if you are looking for a good dose of nature over the course of a weekend. There are other great things to do in Huntsville if you end up spending a weekend there. We’d recommend a stay at Morgan House B&B  which is not too far from the trekking.

Scuba the Ontario Wrecks

If you want to try something a little different, Ontario is actually a great place to go SCUBA diving. This is because some lakes contain a unique underwater environment – including a high concentration of shipwrecks. Tobermory is apparently the “SCUBA capital of Canada” with Fathom Five National Marine Park having over 20 protected wrecks to explore. If you are new to SCUBA, you can always try a SCUBA training course ! If you stay up in Tobermory, check out the Grandview Motel for a popular and cozy accommodation with Georgian Bay views just a short walk from “downtown” Tobermory.

Explore Ontario for Beautiful Waterfalls

Oddly enough, Ontario’s unique geography also makes it a home to many gorgeous waterfalls. A big reason for this is the Niagara Escarpment – that large rocky ledge that runs from Georgian Bay all the way to the Niagara Region.

Of course, you can go and see the most famous of them all – Niagara Falls – but there are lots more to explore that are tucked away in nature.

Exploring waterfalls can make for a good cheap weekend getaway in Ontario because the costs are usually just things like the parking fee and/or the entrance fee for the conservation area (on top of some food and a place to stay).

That said, we’ll highlight two main areas for waterfalls in Ontario but know that there are a few others scattered all over the province. For example, you can go up to near Thunder Bay to experience Kakabeka Falls which is quite a wonder!

Hamilton Region

It’s been said that Hamilton – and the area surrounding it – is the Waterfall Capital of the World. This area has over 200 waterfalls to explore with some being more popular and accessible than others. We wrote up a whole post on our experience checking out Hamilton waterfalls but for those wondering, Tiffany Falls is quite popular, as is Albion Falls. We also liked Felker’s Falls!

Another great area that has a number of waterfalls and conservation areas is Grey County. There are a number of popular ones to head for like Eugenia Falls and Hogg’s Falls . While all of the waterfalls are accessible to hike to in the summer, most of them are also accessible in the winter. To stay nearby, check out the Traverston Retreat B&B !

Dive into Ontario’s Rich History

If you are looking to spend the weekend exploring something you didn’t know about, why not dive into Ontario’s past? From Indigenous peoples and European settlers to war with the Americans and modern-day advances in medicine – Ontario has quite the backstory. Around the province, there are a number of museums and attractions where you get the chance to dive into history. We don’t think history is boring and many of these ideas can be used to fill just one piece of a weekend itinerary whether you’re a couple or a family with kids!

Not to talk about Niagara on the Lake again but the area is popular for Ontario history given the proximity to the US border and waterways.

This region has numerous attractions like Fort George Historic Site and other places like the Laura Secord Homestead , the Mackenzie Printery Museum , and the Queenston Heights Park , among others. We mention most of these museums and historic things to discover in our guide on things to do in Niagara on the Lake !

Sainte-Marie among the Hurons

If you want to step back into the 17th century, head for Sainte-Marie among the Hurons . Located in Midland, this re-created settlement and museum represents the spot of the oldest European community in Ontario. To stay nearby in Midland, you might like 1875 A Charters Inn Bed & Breakfast which is a historic home located right in the heart of the town centre.

Diefenbunker Museum

Did you know that Ontario has a secret underground Cold war-era bunker that was for the Prime Minister and is now a museum you can tour?

If you didn’t, visit the Diefenbunker Museum outside of Ottawa in the small town of Carp. We went and it was honestly awesome! You can read more about our experience when visiting the Diefenbunker . If you want to stay nearby, aim for the Brookstreet Hotel which is in Kanata between the bunker and downtown Ottawa (can make a weekend out of a visit to this area)!

1000 Islands History Museum

If the history of the waterways calls to you, head for Gananoque to explore the 1000 Islands History Museum . It’s located right at the waterfront and you can also use this weekend trip to hop on a beautiful 1000 Islands Boat Cruise !

We cruised the 1000 Islands from Kingston but have heard the cruises from Gananoque offer more island time. To stay just a short walk from downtown Gananoque/the waterfront to catch a cruise, we suggest the Sleepy Hollow B&B in an old historic house!

Check out Top Ontario Attractions

Then there are the Ontario weekend getaways that are centred around going to see or do something specific. We call these top Ontario attractions – and Ontario has a number of things to visit that are worth building a weekend around!

For this guide, we tried to stick to things that are unique experiences to Ontario so you won’t find any chain companies or brands below!

Niagara Falls

We couldn’t leave a weekend getaway in Niagara Falls, Ontario out of this post. This city – with three magnificent waterfalls to check out – is loaded with things to do and see besides the falls themselves.

From the famous Hornblower Cruise to the White Water Walk and attractions on Clifton Hill, there’s something for everyone here. We have written extensively on the subject including a post on top things to do in Niagara Falls and a guide on where to stay .

We stayed at  A Moment in Time B&B and good hotels with views of the falls are  Marriott Fallsview  or  The Oakes Hotel Fallsview .

Bonnechere Caves

To explore another natural wonder that Ontario has been hiding, plan a visit to the Bonnechere Caves . This incredible cave system is a unique way to learn about nature while also going on a bit of an adventure! They are located close to Eganville (not far from Highway 60). To stay nearby, you can check out the Bide-A-While Bed & Breakfast which is in Renfrew (a short drive from the Caves).

Dynamic Earth & Big Nickel

Lastly, if you are keen to learn more about what goes on underground in Ontario, head up to Sudbury to Dynamic Earth and to see the Big Nickel! Part of the Science North group, these science museums are world-renowned. Plus, nearby you get to visit the largest coin in the world so that’s pretty cool. Don’t count out Sudbury for a great weekend getaway. There are other outdoor-based attractions to draw you up there. We’d suggest a stay at the Northbury Hotel close to the city centre.

Catch Some Sun at an Ontario Beach

It’s no secret that with enough lakes, rivers, and other bodies of water dotting the Ontario landscape, there are bound to be some great beaches in Ontario. Millions of years of erosion for you mean many places to lay on the comfortable sand and let the summer sun do its thing!

Of course, there are very popular beaches in Ontario like Wasaga Beach and Sauble Beach – but there are lots of other great beaches to head for as well. So, if you’re looking for a relaxing weekend getaway in Ontario in summer, a beachside retreat might be for you.

We’ve listed just a handful of other beaches you might want to make a point of heading to on a weekend.

They are generally located in nice little towns with restaurants and a laid-back atmosphere. Beaches also make for a sure-fire idea for weekend family getaways in Ontario because the beach has something for everyone!

Grand Bend Beach

Located close to Pinery Provincial Park , Grand Bend Beach is a very popular stop for weekend getaways in southwestern Ontario. There are lots to do in the area activity-wise in both the summer and the winter season. You can stay close by to the beach at a resort or campground like the Oakwood Resort .

Long Point is actually also a Provincial Park – but the sandy beaches are well-known to those familiar with Lake Erie. As the fourth oldest park in Ontario, there’s 1.5 km of sand-covered beach. Lake Erie is also typically warmer than Lake Ontario. To stay close by, you can book the Normandale Century Inn in Normandale which is a quick drive from the beach at Long Point. There are also other beaches all over that area of Lake Erie!

Sandbanks Provincial Park

Looping back to cover Prince Edward County, a trip to Sandbanks Provincial Park is a great way to hit the beach. There are actually three different beaches here – we cover them in our mega guide to exploring Sandbanks . With the option to camp overnight or make use of the day-use dune areas and stay nearby, there are options for most weekend trippers. We’ve covered where to stay in Prince Edward County before in this post but to stay close to the actual beaches check out Our Space the Perfect Place B&B  which is not far.

There are other beaches in this region like Wellington Beach or North Beach if you want to skip Sandbanks!

Hike/Camp at a National/Provincial Park

Speaking of Provincial Parks – you can absolutely make a weekend getaway out of exploring the great outdoors.

Luckily, you’ve got 340 regulated Provincial Parks to choose from – and that doesn’t include National Parks or conservation areas! While this may seem like a difficult task, there are definitely some that are more popular than others.

Everyone is likely familiar with Algonquin Provincial Park , Forks of the Credit , Arrowhead , or even Killarney , but there are so many other parks in Ontario to explore. Many of these green areas make for dog-friendly weekend getaways because they have “bark parks” attached.

If you stay for a weekend (and depending on which one you choose) you might decide to camp overnight (if you can). Alternatively, you can also just do day hikes but stay close by outside the park. You can even visit more than one in a weekend. It’s really up to you!

Petroglyphs Provincial Park

For a unique park experience in Ontario, head for Petroglyphs Provincial Park . Located just to the northeast of Peterborough, the park is special since you’ll find a large collection of Indigenous rock carvings as well as get the chance to enjoy nature and learn about the traditions of the Ojibway people.

This is a place for learning and connecting and we are so looking forward to visiting. To make a weekend out of it, you could stay at the Burleigh Falls Inn which is in our post on best Ontario inns!

Bruce Peninsula National Park

Often referred to as “heading to Tobermory”, Bruce Peninsula National Park is a popular but unique stop in Ontario. The Bruce Peninsula is a gorgeous area on Georgian Bay with a variety of unique aspects like the Grotto – a famous geological attraction. You can camp in the park but you can also stay close by in the heart of Tobermory if you just want to day hike. The Grandview Motel is a great option for that.

Kawartha Highlands Provincial Park

Lastly, Kawartha Highlands Provincial Park is another great park in Ontario located up near Bancroft. We tried to feature more of “The Kawarthas” since the Muskokas always get the credit when it comes to amazing outdoor areas in Ontario. The park is fantastic to visit for camping, hiking, canoeing, and much more. It is actually the second largest park in Southern Ontario next to Algonquin. It’s actually pretty close to Petroglyphs Park (mentioned above) so a stay at the Burleigh Falls Inn would make sense if you didn’t want to camp overnight.

Explore a Small Ontario Town

You don’t have to head to a city to have an amazing weekend. In fact, those of you in the city are likely looking to leave it for the weekend.

So, exploring a small Ontario town might be perfect for you. In fact, we’d argue that the right small town can offer you more to do on a long weekend getaway in Ontario than just heading for an Ontario beach!

Ontario is loaded with small towns that actually have lots of offer visitors like local history and hikes, artisan shops, restaurants, and breweries. Local accommodations that make for a nice overnight getaway can be the piece that brings it all together to create a nice weekend getaway.

Having both of us come from small towns, we definitely have an affinity for discovering smaller places. Below are a number of great small towns to check out – some have rivers running through while others have hiking trails or lakes to enjoy!

Last, but certainly not least, we have the small town of Elora. Located close to Guelph, Elora is known for the Grand River running through it. It’s the home of the luxurious Elora Mill Hotel and the town is a great stop for a quiet weekend full of relaxing, getting out on the river, or hiking/tubing in Elora Gorge Conservation Area . We’ve written a whole detailed guide on what to do in Elora if you want to read about our experience. Aside from the Elora Mill Hotel and Spa , another place to stay close to the town centre would be Etherington Suites – very close to the Grand River!

If you are searching for a cute little town with historic stone buildings, a number of places to eat, a museum or two, local shops, and some green space by the water, you might want to have a look at Perth. This little town is located a short drive north of Kingston and makes for a nice quiet Ontario getaway – especially in spring with the flowers blooming.

If you want to stay right in the heart of Perth, we’d suggest the Perth Manor Boutique Hotel !

Gravenhurst

For those wanting to hit up a smaller town but up in the Muskokas, Gravenhurst would be our go-to suggestion. Featuring a great little town centre with a nice brewery and the famous Muskoka steamships cruise down at the Muskoka Wharf, there’s lots to see and do in Gravenhurst . For a nice place to stay, that is close to downtown but also close to the lake, you can check out  The Inn on Bay .

Get Lost in an Ontario City

It goes without saying that Ontario is huge and there are a number of cities that can definitely make for a nice weekend getaway.

Depending on your interests (and your starting location), some cities might appeal to you over others. Cities also make for a great solo weekend in Ontario because you can kind of blend in among city life and enjoy it at your own pace!

There are a number of cities we really like visiting around Ontario – and all for basically different reasons.

We left Toronto out since (you have to admit) many people are usually looking to leave Toronto for the weekend, not enter it! Below are some of our favourite cities to visit, things to do in each, and accommodations to check out.

For a historic city right on Lake Ontario, Kingston makes for an excellent weekend trip since it’s a doable drive from both Ottawa and Toronto. Kingston is fantastic in the summer: You can get ice cream and walk the downtown core to check out the small shops. There are historic trolley tours and even an island boat cruise you can do. In the winter, it’s a bit chilly but still great. You can go ice skating at Springer Market Square. There are also so many bars, breweries, and restaurants in Kingston to satisfy any cuisine in any season. We’d suggest the Hochelaga Inn for a historic bed and breakfast walkable to downtown and The Delta for a downtown hotel on the Kingston waterfront. Having lived in Kingston for a combined decade, that’s why we know and love it. You can read up on things to do , best restaurants , best bars and pubs , coffee shops , and even where to stay in Kingston .

If you feel like you aren’t in touch with Canada’s roots, a trip to Ottawa can fix that! In the summer, you can do a river cruise of the Ottawa River , explore Parliament, or visit one of the many museums like the Canadian War Museum or National Gallery of Canada . Pints in ByWard Market are also a great way to enjoy the weather! In the winter, the city gets cold but there’s always Winterlude and skating on the famous Rideau Canal to enjoy! Whichever season you visit, we’d recommend the Andaz ByWard Market for a central hotel with a stunning rooftop bar. We love exploring Ottawa and have a number of posts to get you started: things to do in Ottawa , one day in Ottawa , best Ottawa bars and pubs , and where to stay in Ottawa !

Last but not least – a trip to Guelph, Ontario is actually a great option! Located not too far from Toronto, Guelph can make for a nice weekend getaway in southern Ontario. The city has a lot of natural beauty with green spaces and the rivers that run through. The area is good for hiking and being outside, in general. There is a nice downtown with bars and pubs , shops, and great restaurants. Of course, there are other things to do in Guelph like renting a boat at The Boathouse and getting ice cream or high tea! If you head for Guelph, the  Norfolk Guest House Inn  makes for a lovely stay a short walk to downtown.

Indulge On A “Food or Drink Trail”

If you want your weekend getaway to revolve around enjoying Ontario’s vibrant gastronomy scene, then you can definitely make that happen! Ontario prides itself on its local growers, bakers, brewers, and restaurant owners who have created more than one “foodie” hot spot across the province.

While a stop at St. Lawrence Market in Toronto is definitely a noteworthy adventure, there are a number of Ontario weekend trip food routes that are basically just asking you to join. From sweet treats to delicious craft beer, here are a bunch of Ontario food tours/trails that you can follow!

The Butter Tart Tour

Are you a fan of butter tarts? The Canadian classic dessert can be enjoyed in the Kawarthas Northumberland (around Peterborough) at over 50 different locations! You can eat your way across the region sampling butter tarts – find the full details for the Butter Tart Tour here . You can also complete a version by boat! If you do make the tour over the course of a weekend, you will need a place to sleep off those butter tarts. Stay in Bobcaygeon to be in the heart of the butter tart tasting region and check out Riverside Caygeon B&B for a great bed and breakfast!

Oxford County Cheese Trail

Is cheese your thing? Then the Oxford County Cheese Trail is for you! Consisting of 24 stops ranging from cheese shops, restaurants, and other vendors around Woodstock (close to London), the cheese trail is definitely something you’ll want to spend a weekend doing! You can learn all about The Cheese Trail here ! As you will be filled with cheese, stay in Woodstock for a central location to drive to other places on the trail. The Château la Motte Guest House is a super cool-looking historic bed and breakfast that might do the trick.

Brewery Tour

Since Ontario is a hot spot for craft breweries, there are many different ones situated in regions that you can explore. Prince Edward County breweries are great or you could even make a tour out of breweries around the Muskoka region (like Muskoka Brewery in Bracebridge!). Please enjoy responsibly if you do this. Once again, the heart of the region is arguably Gravenhurst so perhaps stay at The Inn on Bay to make your brewery crawl easier to accomplish! This would also work well for a one-night getaway in Ontario.

And there you have it – a pretty detailed list of ideas for weekend getaways in Ontario! Of course, there are so many more weekend ideas to add here.

Also, not all of these will work for you because we have no idea where you are starting from. That said, we hope this is a helpful guide to most. You know we’ll be adding to it as we explore more of Ontario!

As always, Keep Exploring, eh? – E&L

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Eric Wychopen

Hi, we're Eric and Lisa - an Ontario-born Canadian and a German! After settling in Ontario together, we realized that there is lots more to explore in this beautiful Canadian province! On Ontario Away, we as well as local contributors cover everything from cities and hikes to wineries, attractions, accommodations, and more.

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Tiny Footsteps Travel

36 Most Charming Small Towns in Ontario (2024)

Looking for Ontario small towns to visit or to live? You’re in the right place.

I love to travel abroad, but there is so much to do just here in Ontario. Small towns in Ontario are full of heritage, culture, and really unique things to see. Whether you’re looking for good places to live in Ontario or simply good Ontario weekend getaways, then there are a number of hidden gems in Ontario that I can’t wait to tell you about.

There are so many worthwhile small towns to visit in Ontario, and I wish I could mention them all. I have tried to narrow it down to the top 36 which I think offer unique, out of the ordinary attractions for tourists.

Growing up outside of the GTA, I’ve lived in proximity to Ontario small towns my whole life. I grew up in a small town, and I now live in a (different) small town, and also visited a number of small towns in between.

To define, “small town”, I’m going to be showing you the best places to visit in Ontario with a population of around 20,000 or less – because anything much more than that, from my experience, has more of a city atmosphere than a ‘small town’ vibe.

As a lifelong Ontario small town resident, and a travel blogger, I want to share with you the best small Ontario small towns to visit, and what makes them worth a visit during an Ontario road trip , or an Ontario weekend getaway .

So, let’s jump in – best small towns to visit in Ontario!

35 Best Ontario Small Towns to Visit

Pack your bags for your Ontario road trip. Here are the best small towns in Ontario, and why they’re worth a visit

1. Arnprior

Arnprior is a town of just over 10,000 people located 65 km (40 miles) west of downtown Ottawa. It’s known for its architecture, festivals, boutique stores and bakeries.

If you’re in the Ottawa area, Arnprior makes for a charming stop for an eastern Ontario road trip.

Things to do in Arnprior, Ontario:

• Go shopping at boutique stores on the main street
• Grab fresh baked goods at Mighty Fine Bakehouse, or Sweet and Sassy Co.
• Explore Arnprior’s heritage past at the beautiful 1800s heritage building, the Arnprior and District Museum
• Take a walk on the scenic Macnamara Nature Trail
• Take part in the Priorpalooza ( music festival held in June) or the Dragon Boat Festival (July)
• Take a drive to nearby villages White Lake and Burnstown

Where to stay in Arnprior:

• Arnprior Motor Inn is located just in the outskirts of downtown, just a few minutes’ walk from the river

2. Bancroft

Bancroft is a small town 2.5 hours in between both Ottawa and Toronto , with a population of just over 4,000. It’s location nestled in a hilly forested terrain with the York River running through it make it a picturesque place to live and visit.

Bancroft is a a great location for outdoor activities, hole in the wall cafés, art and heritage.

Things to do in Bancroft, Ontario

• Try specialty drinks at one of the cozy family-owned cafés on Bridge street
• Admire local art the Art Gallery of Bancroft
• Learn about the pioneering past in the area in the beautiful log home, the Bancroft North Hastings Heritage Museum
• Discover the area’s mining history at the Bancroft Mineral Museum
• Try local craft beers at the Bancroft Brewing Company
• Go for a hike at Eagle Chutes Provincial Park

Check availability at Somerset Lakeside Resort for an overnight stay in Bancroft

Bath is known for being one of Ontario’s oldest communities, settled in 1784 . Located just 28 km (17 miles) east of Kingston, Bath is a tiny village of less than 2,000 people.

Despite the small population, there are a number of scenic things to do in the area, as well as buildings that are hundreds of years old.

Things to Do in Bath, Ontario

• Take a walk along the marina and the Heritage Park on the shoreline of Lake Ontario
• Take the ferry to Amherst Island from the  Millhaven Ferry Dock (5 minutes from downtown)
• Grab some delicious eats at the Beachside BBQ
• Learn about early Upper Canada at the historic “Ham House”
• Check out the Farfield Gudzeit House, a museum that dates back to 1796  

Places to stay near Bath, Ontario

• It makes most sense to stay in the town of Napanee (20 minutes away) as there are limited accommodations in Bath. The Fox Motor Inn in Napanee has great amenities, including an outdoor pool

5. Burks Falls

Burks Falls is a small village in an area known as the Almaguin Highlands. Surrounded by lakes, Burks Falls near ‘cottage country.’

Burk’s Falls is best known for the private art property, known Screaming Heads which was featured in Atlas Obscura, but there are a few other gems nearby to check out too.

My family’s cottage is near Burks Falls, so I’ve been here quite a few times. There isn’t a lot to do, but there are a few hidden gems worth checking out. At the very least, Burks Falls is worth a stop on a road trip in Ontario.

• Visit the Tourism Centre which has a scenic heritage walk with a river that goes over the waterfall
• Visit Mithothian Castle and Screaming Heads
• Check out the Wiseman’s Corner Schoolhouse Heritage Centre to see what an old schoolhouse in the area once looked like
• Drive to the village of Magnetawan (20 minutes away) on Saturday mornings from May to October for the farmer’s market

6. Bracebridge

Bracebridge is a larger size town in Ontario’s “cottage country,” just a 40 minute drive north of Orillia . Bracebridge is famous for its Fire and Ice Festival which happens every winter, and for the Bracebridge Waterfalls in the heart of the downtown.

Being in the Muskoka area, there are a number of outdoor things to do, as well as shopping and eating in the downtown core.

I’ve driven through Bracebridge and visited a number of times, as I have family here. It has a great downtown, and is worth a visit in itself, or a stop on a road trip from Toronto to Algonquin Park.

Things to do in Bracebridge, Ontario

• Marvel at the Bracebridge Waterfalls in the centre of town
• Explore the scenic beauty on a Muskoka River Cruise
• Visit Santa’s Village (open year round) if you’re in Bracebridge with kids
• Sample craft beers at the Muskoka Brewery
• Take part in the annual Fire and Ice Festival in late January
• Take a scenic walk at the local community garden , the Rotary Centennial Gardens

Places to Stay near Bracebridge, Ontario

• Inn at the Falls – Located right downtown, with a view of the falls and close to shops and restaurants . Breakfast included!

7. Cochrane

Cochrane is the polar bear capital of Ontario, and located about an hour north of Timmins . About 1/3 of Cochrane speaks French as a first language.

Cochrane is very small, (the population is just over 5,000 as of 2022) and I’ll admit there isn’t a ton to do right in town aside from the Polar Bear Habitat – which is the biggest draw to the area. However, Cochrane is also within driving distance of some incredibly scenic sights , and makes for a worthwhile stop on a Northern Ontario road trip.

Things to do in Cochrane, Ontario:

• Visit the Polar Bear Habitat and see the three polar bears that live on site
• Grab breakfast at the cozy Railway Café
• Take a walk along the Zeverly Rapids Bridge (45 minutes south of Cochrane)
• Take a scenic drive to see the incredible New Post Falls (2 hours north of Cochrane)

Places to stay near Cochrane:

• Travelodge by Wyndham Cochrane is less than 5 minute drive to the Polar Bear Habitat

8. Creemore

Creemore is home of the smallest jail in North America , and the famous Creemore Brewery, and makes a worthwhile stop on a road trip if you’re driving from Toronto to the Collingwood or Wasaga Beach area.

Creemore, with its quant downtown feels like a smaller version of Niagara on the Lake, with its high end shopping and a few cozy places to eat.

I grew up visiting Creemore, as my grandparents had a farm just outside of town. It has morphed into a touristy little spot, where I often like to meet friends for lunch and take a stroll on the main street.

Things to do in Creemore, Ontario

• Do a tasting tour at the Creemore Brewery
• Check out the smallest jail in North America !
• Visit the nearby lavender Farm, Purple Hill Lavender Farm (summer only)

Places to stay in Creemore

• I recommend staying at Gables Bed and Breakfast , just 10 minutes away in Stayner. It puts you close to Creemore, Collingwood and the Blue Mountains, as well as Wasaga Beach

Dorest is a small town very popular in the summer and fall, for people wanting to enjoy cottage country in Ontario.

The first time I visited Dorset, it immediately reminded me of a small Swiss village in the Alps – it kind of has that feel. I recommend making a stop here to enjoy the beautiful Muskoka scenery.

Things to do in Dorset, Ontario

• Get incredible, 360 views of the surrounding terrain from the Dorset Lookout Tower
• Take a cruise on the SS Bigwin that leaves from the Dorset dock
• Explore Dorset’s pioneering past at the Dorset Heritage Museum
• Go hiking in Algonquin Provincial Park (30 minutes away)

Book your overnight  accommodation in Dorset  here

Dwight is a small Muskoka town located right on the shore of the Lake of Bays. Dwight is extremely popular as a place to stay near Algonquin Provincial Park, as its only 20 minutes from the park entrance.

Aside from Algonquin, there are a number of other outdoorsy things to do in the area. And you absolutely must stop at Henrietta’s Bakery, and be there early enough if you want to try their signature pastry, the “Muskoka Cloud.”

We drive through Dwight every time we visit Algonquin, and I think the area is very under rated. It’s well worth a stop on an Ontario road trip from Toronto to Algonquin.

Things to Do in Dwight, Ontario

• Marvel at the Oxtongue River Rapids
• Shop at the Dwight Trading Post for unique Muskoka souvenirs
• Get a mouthwatering poutine at Din’s Fresh Cut Fries
• Stop in Henrietta’s Bakery for a sweet treat
• Take a drive to Dorset (15 minutes away) to climb the Lookout Tower, or take a Bigwin Cruise
• Go hiking in Algonquin Provincial Park (15 minutes away) and plan in advance if you want to see the fall colours

Elora is a small town famous for the Elora Gorge which is a tourist hotspot in the summertime, and for the ice climbing wall in the winter.

Elora is one of the best small towns to visit near Toronto, being only 90 minutes from downtown.

Things to do in Elora, Ontario

• Go swimming at the breathtaking Elora Quarry i n the summer
• Shop for gifts and souvenirs at the Mermaid gift shop
• Enjoy the variety of culinary options
• Climb at 60-foot ice-climbing wall (winter only, weather permitting)
• Explore the town of Fergus while you’re there (10 minutes away)

Fergus is one of the most picturesque small towns near Toronto. Its riverfront limestone buildings , culinary scene, scenic trails, and small town atmosphere make it really nice either to stop through, or for an Ontario weekend getaway.

Fergus is in Wellington Country, only 10 minutes away from Elora, so the two can be visited in conjunction with each other.

I used to pass through Fergus often on my way to my school in Waterloo, and its such a nice town with a charming atmosphere. There’s also a lot worth doing in the area.

• Check out all the the 1800s buildings, the post office, the museum, theatre and other
• See the waterfall in Confederation Park
• Visit the Wellington County Museum and Archives, which was once a “poorhouse” (government assisted housing in the 19th century.) Its the oldest of its kind in Canada
• Walk through Templin Gardens in the heart of town, and admire the flowerbeds and limestone
• Take part in the largest Scottish Festival in Canada . The Fergus Scottish Festival & Highland Games have been running for over 70 years.

Check accommodation options to spend a weekend in Fergus and Elora

13. Goderich

Goderich is a small town on Lake Superior, about 2.5 hours west of Toronto. Queen Elizabeth II called Goderich “the prettiest town in Canada,” and I believe she was definitely on to something.

I was lucky to be invited to a friend’s cottage in Goderich, and couldn’t believe my eyes when I saw the water – it was so turquoise, that it reminded me of the Caribbean.

Things to do in Goderich, Ontario

• Have a beach day. The Goderich Main Beach is a good place to enjoy the views
• Explore the old jail, the Huron Historic Gaol
• Hike on the Tiger Dunlop Nature Trail
• Get views from the Menesetung Bridge, and the Goderich Lighthouse
• Take a drive to explore other cute small towns Lake Huron that are nearby: Port Elgin, Kincardine and Bayfield

14. Grand Bend

Grand Bend is located right on Lake Huron and is known as one of the best beach towns in Canada .

With a small population of just over 3,000 people, Grand Bend has a small town atmosphere, as well as lots of beach

Things to do in Grand Bend, Ontario

• Swim and tan at Grand Band Beach
• Do a wine tour at Dark Horse Estate Winery
• Visit the Oil Museum of Canada , known as Lambton Heritage Museum
• Shop at the Pinery Antique Market on Sundays from May through to October, and the Grand Bend Farmer’s Market
• Take a drive along the Lake Huron coastline to explore other small towns: Goderich, Kincardine, and Bayfield

Check overnight accommodation options in Grand Bend here

15. Hockley Valley

Hockley Valley is a small community nestled in the Niagara Escarpment Biosphere Reserve, just over an hour from Toronto .

Hockley Valley is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts who enjoy hiking, skiing, or golfing in the summertime. It also has a popular spa which makes it great for a relaxing weekend getaway

I’m lucky to live close to Hockley Valley, so I’ve driven through the area many times. I enjoy hiking at Island Lake, and the General Store downtown is a great place to pop into.

Things to do in Hockey Valley, Ontario:

• Go skiing (winter) or golfing (summer) at the Hockley Valley Resort
• Enjoy the spa at the Hockley Valley Resort
• Visit the Rosebud Motel which was used on the popular TV show Schitt’s Creek
• Go hiking at Island Lake Conservation Area in town, or Mono Cliffs Provincial Park (reservation required – just 10 minutes away)

16. Huntsville

Huntsville is a picturesque Muskoka town with the Muskoka River running through it. Its a great place to stay if you’re visiting Algonquin Park.

Things to do in Hunstivlle, Ontario

• Go hiking at Algonquin Provincial Park , or at Arrowhead
• Trek to the top of the Lion’s Lookout for incredible 360 views
• Go treetop trekking just outside town
• Grab a Beaver Tail, or bring a picnic and sit down and eat along the river
• Go shopping on the main street, where you can find artisan Canadian souvenirs and gifts, and specialty items

17. Kincardine

Kincardine, like Grand Bend and Goderich, is another town on the Lake Huron shoreline in southwest Ontario.

Kincardine has it all in terms of an Ontario weekend getaway. There’s a decent food scene, a boardwalk, art galleries, museums, bookshops, surf shops, beaches and even chartered boat cruises to explore Lake Huron.

What I like best Kincardine is that its downtown is not a highway (like with Goderich), so it has a quainter, quieter, slow-paced atmosphere.

Things to do in Kincardine, Ontario

• Check out the Kincardine Lighthouse & Museum
• Get out onto the water with Kincardine Boat Cruises
• Walk along the boardwalk, and have a beach day at Station Beach
• See the Walker House Museum, the oldest standing wooden building in the area
• Take a stroll on the Penetangore River walking trails

Book your stay at the Inn at the Harbour lakeside hotel in Kincardine here

18. Lincoln

Lincoln is a charming hamlet in the Niagara region, and highly worth a stop if you’re driving from Toronto to Niagara Falls.

The Niagara area is renowned for its wineries, and Lincoln is no different. Part of what sets Lincoln apart is being known as one of the largest fruit-producing areas .

Things to Do in Lincoln, Ontario:

• Visit Ball’s Falls Conservation area to see the heritage buildings, and the waterfall
• Do a wine tour in town: Atlantis Niagara Winery is right in town
• Drive out to Niagara on the Lake (30 minutes) for some boutique shopping

Where to Stay in Lincoln

• The Inn on the Twenty nearby is perfect for a relaxing getaway

19. Little Current

Little Current is the largest town on Manitoulin Island, which is the largest freshwater island in the world.

Aside from scenic beauty, Manitoulin Island is known for its arts scene, and its indigenous cultural festivals and events.

Things to Do in Little Current, Ontario

• Visit Bridal Veil Falls (about 30 mins by car from Little Current)
• Go hiking on the famous Cup and Saucer Trail (20 minute drive)
• Learn about indigenous culture by attending a Pow Wow

Places to Stay in Little Current:

• Manitoulin Motel – air conditioning, free parking, flat screen TV, and tea/coffee maker

Pro Tip: Manitoulin Island is very popular for camping, and there are many camp resorts near the shoreline of Lake Superior. Read my post on Campsites on Manitoulin Island .

20. Lion’s Head

Lion’s Head is a popular stop on a road trip from Toronto to Tobermory, and truly one of the cutest small towns in Ontario. It’s a great place to do stargazing, and admire unique rock formations and views of Lake Huron.

Things to do in Lion’s Head, Ontario

• Check out the Lion’s Head Harbour lighthouse
• Swimming and sunbathing at Lion’s Head beach
• Participate in the Bayside Astronomy program , which runs at the marina in Lions Head at sunset
• Get incredible views from the Lion’s Head lookout trail (pictured above)
• Check out Greig’s limestone caves

21. Midland

In just over a 40 minute drive north of Barrie , you’ll find the town of Midland, which is nestled right on the shore of Georgian Bay.

It offers a colourful art scene with dozens of murals in the downtown core, several beaches, boat cruises, heritage discovery and outdoor beauty.

• Take a boat tour of Georgian Bay with Georgian Spirit Cruises
• Admire over 30 different murals in downtown Midland
• Take a walk in Little Lake Park trail along the Georgian Bay shoreline
• Step into the history at the Saint Marie Among the Hurons.
• See the 1800s replica warship , schooner & cargo vessel  at Discovery Bay
• Visit the Penetanguishene Centennial Museum.

Where to stay in Midland

• I recommend the Captain’s House Heritage B&B for a couples getaway, or the Hampton Inn for a family vacation in Midland

A tiny town just over an hour from Toronto, Mono is one of the most scenic towns to visit in Ontario.

Rather a town centre, Mono is composed of several small hamlets, farmland, and nature reserves. Mono is very popular for residents and tourists in Toronto who want to escape the city atmosphere, and get out into nature.

My husband and I are big fans of Mono and we come here often. We eat at the Mono Cliffs Inn for special occasions, and the Mono Cliffs Provincial Park is my husband’s favourite hiking spot. (It has gotten much busier in recent years and now requires a reservation.)

Things to do in Mono, Ontario

• Eat at the Mono Cliff’s Inn
• Go hiking at the Mono Cliff’s Provincial Park (reservation required)
• Do a tour of Ketchum House . (The owners are very nice people, and the view from the property of the surrounding land are stunning)

Places to stay near Mono, Ontario

• For an eco-friendly/sustainable living adventure : Ketchum House (the owners are very nice people)
• For a rustic experience : Cabin on the 9 (my husband and I celebrated Valentines Day here once, and it was wonderful)

23. Moonbeam

Moonbeam is a Northern Ontario town that is known for a large flying saucer at the side of the road. Early settlers to Moonbeam claimed to have seen UFOs or moonbeams in the sky that were never explained, which is how the town got its name

Moonbeam was also mentioned in the song “Fly” by the Tragically Hip. Moonbeam has just over 1,000 people and 70% of them are French-speaking.

With such a small population, there isn’t a ton to do in Moonbeam. However, it makes a worthwhile stop if you’re doing a Northern Ontario road trip, because its directly in between other Northern Ontario small towns Hearst and Cochrane.

Things to do in Moonbeam, Ontario

• Get photos in front of the Flying Saucer
• René Brunelle Provincial Park
• Marvel at Rémi Lake
• Take part in the Summer Art Fair during the 2nd weekend of July

Where to stay in Moonbeam

• Rent a cottage from Moonbeam Lakeside Resort which has incredible views of Rémi Lake

24. Niagara on the Lake

Niagara on the Lake is one of the touristy small towns in Ontario, and for a good reason. The area is rich with wineries, great places to eat, festivals and scenic drives. It’s very popular as a couple’s getaway, and there are a ton of bed and breakfasts.

Niagara on the Lake is one of my favourite places for a ‘girl’s weekend’ or a getaway with my husband. The wineries, hiking, boutique shopping, great food all make it very much worth a visit.

• Do a wine tour. My favourite wineries in the area are Peller Estates and Two Sisters, but there are many others
• Do the Chocolate Factory Experience at CFX, just 15 minutes away
• Visit Neob Niagara, the lavendar farm
• Eat at one of the many high end restaurants. I recommend The Old Winery Restaurant or Niagara’s Finest Thai. (However, be sure to make reservations well in advance, especially for a weekend.)
• Stroll down the main street for window shopping and finding artisan Canadian souvenirs . Pop into the Christmas store, and grab a sweet treat from Rocky Mountain
• Take part in the Ice Wine Festival, held in January. While you’re there, drive out to see Niagara Falls in winter (20 minutes away)

Book your overnight accommodation in Niagara on the Lake here

25. Owen Sound

Owen Sound known as “the scenic city”, Owen Sound is known for its art scene, and its proximity to several waterfalls.

With a population just over 20,000, Owen Sound is on the cusp of what I’d consider a small town. It is still relatively small, with a small town feel.

My husband and I went on a mini anniversary trip in Owen Sound, and it didn’t disappoint. We enjoyed the local cuisine, waterfalls, and the art galleries. I’d recommend a trip to Owen Sound for anyone looking for a nice place to visit in Ontario

• Visit Inglis Waterfall (pictured above) and Jones Waterfall
• Visit the art galleries, especially the Tom Thompson Art Gallery (he was a member of the Group of Seven, a famous group of Canadian artists.)

Mais oui, there is a Paris in Ontario too. While maybe not nearly as old as the one overseas, Paris Ontario is a quaint town with water activities, trails, and historic buildings.

Things to do in Paris, Ontario

• Have a hearty meal at the Paris Beer Company
• Grab an incecream cone at Paris Twisted Treats
• Rent a raft from the Grand River Rafting Company (20 minutes away)

27. Pembroke

Pembroke is an artsy town, known for having more murals than any other town or city in Ontario.

You may have to go a little out of your way to find it though – Pembroke is just east of Algonquin Provincial Park, a 4.5 hour drive from Toronto. It’s right on the Ottawa River, and you can see the province of Quebec on the other side.

Things to do in Pembroke, Ontario

• Enjoy views of the Ottawa river from the waterfront park and marina
• Learn about the history of electricity at the Murray L. Moore Hydro Museum
• Museum the history of Ottawa Valley
• Champlain Trail Pioneer Village.
• Visit the drive-i n in the summertime

Perth, a small town 1 hour from Ottawa, is has the best craft breweries  in eastern Ontario, a beautiful park with a river running through it and lots of outdoor activities.

Things to do in Perth, Ontario

• Visit the craft breweries: The Perth Brewery and the Bridge Master’s Brewing Company.)
• Go see the Mammoth Cheese monument which was made from milk of 10,000 cows
• Visit the P erth Chocolate Works for some incredible artisan chocolate
• Stop into BlackFly Grub Hub for fresh, homemade donuts

Check availability at the Perth at the Perth Parkside Inn & Spa for an overnight stay

29. St. Mary’s

St. Mary’s is a heritage town in southwestern Ontario, in between London and Stratford. It was settled in the 19th century and is known as “the stone town,” because of all of its l imestone buildings.

St. Mary’s is particularly a good destination for baseball lovers, and outdoor lovers.

Things to do in St. Mary’s, Ontario

• Check out the Canadian Baseball Hall of Fame
• Visit the St. Mary’s Opera house, built in 1880
• Swim in the St. Mary’s Quarry
• Walk the Grand Trunk Trail  (3.5 km or 2.1 miles) and get views of the river from the Sarnia Bridge
• Take a guided art tour at the Art of Ideas Gallery 
• Try local craft beer at the Broken Rail Brewing
• Take part in the Stratford festival (20 minutes away)

Check accommodation options in St. Mary’s here

30. St. Jacobs

St. Jacob’s, located just outside Waterloo, is a cute small town known for its Mennonite heritage, historic buildings, steam train, food scene, boutique shops and an outlet mall.

If you love to shop, then St. Jacob’s is the perfect small town to visit in Ontario. Whether you’re looking for antiques, handcraft items, or big brands, there are so many great things to buy here. Don’t forget your wallet!

I used to work at the St. Jacob’s Outlet Mall as a university student, and its as much a tourist attraction as it is a great place for locals to score deals on big brands.

Things to do in St. Jacob’s, Ontario

• Take an old fashioned train ride on the Waterloo Central Railway
• Find gifts at Angel Treasures and Artefacts Salvage & Design
• Shop at the St. Jacob’s Farmer’s Market
• Learn about St. Jacob’s Mennonite culture at The Mennonite Story
• Buy premium teas at Tea, Earth & Sky

31. Schomberg

Schomberg is one of the best small towns to visit near Toronto, being only an hour away. The main street is one of the cutest in the GTA (Greater Toronto Area). There are boutique stores, great food, thrift shops.

I grew up near Schomberg, and still have family that lives here, so I visit pretty frequently. There are some great restaurants on the main strip, and very cute boutique stores.

Things to do in Schomberg

• Eat at the Schomberg Pub (great patio in the summertime)
• Grab coffee or brunch at the hole in the wall Grackle Cafe.

32. Tobermory

Tobermory is known as the scuba diving and shipwreck capital of Ontario. It’s a quaint small town in Ontario, at the tip of the Bruce Peninsula on Georgian Bay.

Tobermory has a small harbour, some incredible scenic outdoor activities, and is known for its crystal clear turquoise water which makes it so popular for snorkeling and diving.

As a scuba diver, I head to Tobermory almost every summer – with kids, and on my own. It’s one of my favourite small towns to visit in Ontario.

Things to Do in Tobermory:

• Do snorkeling or diving with Diver’s Den in the crystal clear water to see shipwrecks
• Take a glass bottom boat tour to Flowerpot Island
• Hike to the Grotto and Indian Head Cove
• A number of restaurants in the harbour
• Visit Singing Sands beach

Hoping to visit Tobermory with kids? Read my post on family-friendly places to stay in Tobermory.

Book your day tour to Tobermory and Flowerpot Island from Toronto here

33. Tottenham

Tottenham is a small town close to Toronto. The South simcoe railway is one of the best things to do in the area , among others.

I grew up in Tottenham, and visit here often. I enjoy getting getting outside at the conservation area, having dinner at The Taste of Freedom, and bringing my children on the steam train. (I’ve been riding it since I was a kid.)

Things to do in Tottenham:

• Grab dinner at the Taste of Freedom , a high-end restaurant set in an old Victorian home.
• Hiking, swimming or fishing at the Tottenham Conservation Area
• Attend the Annual Bluegrass Festival, held in June every year
• Take part in seasonal events during the fall and the holiday season
• Head to Alliston (20 minutes away)

Pro Tip: If you stay nearby overnight, I recommend having breakfast at the Cedar Kitchen on main street.

34. Uxbridge

Uxbrige is a gem of a community known for its old fashioned train, and for being the “trail capital of Canada.”

Uxbridge is particularly a nice place to visit for those who enjoy small towns in addition to farms. The area is bursting with family-owned farms that welcome visits to buy fresh, locally sourced and artisan food products.

Things to do in Uxbridge, Ontario

• Visit Goodwood, which is a filming location on the popular TV show  Schitt’s Creek
• Discover halotherapy at the  Holistic Salt Therapy & Cave
• Visit the Thomas Foster Memorial, known as the  “Jewel on the Hill”
• Have a picnic in  Uxbridge’s Elgin Park  (Canada’s first prime minister John A. MacDonald picniced here)
• Go hiking in Glen Major Forest
• Visit a farm -there are a number of them in the area where you can pick your own fresh produce, or meet animals (if you’re in the area with kids.)

The Wawa Goose Monument is a 28-feet tall metal statue and is most photographed monument in North America.

You also need to stop at the Magpie Waterfalls just outside town. Besides the goose statue and the falls, there isn’t a lot to do in Wawa, but its a very worthwhile stop on a road trip from Toronto to Thunder Bay.

Things to Do in Wawa:

• Magpie Waterfalls just 10 minute drive outside town.
• Take photos of the Wawa Goose Monument
• Grab food at the Viking Restaurant, or the Wawa Goose Bar & Grill
• Michipicoten Post Provincial Park

Where to Stay in Wawa:

• Mystic Isle Motel

36. Wiarton

Right on the shore of Lake Huron, Wiarton is home of the “Wiarton Willy.” worthwhile stop on a road trip from Toronto to Tobermory.

Just 25 minutes south of Lion’s Head and an hour from Tobermory, Wiarton has a lot of hidden gems that are well worth a stop.

Things to do in Wiarton, Ontario

• See caves and rock formations at Spirit Rock and the Bruce Caves Conservation Area
• Stroll down the marina, and take photos with the Wiarton Willy statue
• Grab fresh, seasonal comfort food at the Green Door Café
• Have a beach day at Oliphant Beach (25 minutes way)
• Take a drive to the Owen Sound area (35 minutes) to see waterfalls and for more restaurant options

Where to stay in Wiarton

Waterview on the Bay has scenic views, and an outdoor swimming pool

Best Small Towns in Ontario Near Toronto

Here’s a stunning fact: half of Ontario’s population lives in the Greater Toronto Area. Both residents and tourists in the area enjoy escaping the hecticness and business of the city to explore the small town lifestyle and cute villages in Ontario.

Here are the best small towns near Toronto

• Schomberg (1 hour)
• Port Perry (1 hour)
• Uxbridge (1 hour)
• Paris (1 hour)
• Mono and Hockley Valley (1 hour, 10 minutes)
• Elora and Fergus (90 minutes)
• Lincoln (1 hour, 20 minutes)
• Niagara on the Lake (1 hour, 45 minutes)

How to Get Around Ontario

Unfortunately, Ontario doesn’t have the best rail or public transit system. The best way to get around (especially if youre planning to visit small towns) is by car. If you don’t own one in Ontario, then you can rent one here.

There are a few exceptions of course. There are private tours to Tobermory from Toronto, and to Algonquin, where there are a few small tourist towns, like Huntsville, Dorset and Dwight.

Book your rental car for Ontario here

Ontario Small Towns: FAQs

Here are the most commonly asked questions about small towns in Ontario, and choosing which ones to visit or live in

What is the prettiest small town in Ontario?

There are too many pretty small towns in Ontario to choose just one. But in my opinion, some o the most quaint and pretty small towns in Ontario are Kincardine, St. Mary’s, Creemore, Niagara on the Lake, Elora,

What small towns are up north in Ontario?

There are many small towns in Northern Ontario that are worth visiting. Some of them are Moonbeam, Cochrane, Hearst, Kapuskasking, Wawa, and countless more. There are lots of towns, waterfalls and scenic sights to stop at on a Northern Ontario road trip.

Where is the best small town to live in Ontario?

If you want to be close to Toronto, then some of the best small towns to live in Ontario are Schomberg, Fergus, Erin, Elora, Port Perry, and several others. Keep in mind that most small towns within 2 hours of the Greater Toronto Area are still expensive; if you’re looking for affordable housing, then you might need to be willing to move further east or north.

Conclusion: Small towns in Ontario

While visiting the touristy cities like Toronto and Ottawa is exciting, there are a lot of hidden gems and off the beaten track attractions in Ontario small towns. Visiting them allows you to really tap into the local culture, and way of life of many Canadians.

Visiting landmarks and attractions in the small towns of Ontario is often rewarding, because of far fewer crowds than some of the city tourist attractions, and being able to connect with local culture and way of life. Many opportunities to get out into nature, explore indigenous and settlement heritage, try some mouthwatering food in hole in the wall restaurants,

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16 most beautiful places to visit in Ontario this fall

By Chantal Ford

Published on Nov 27, 2023 | 11 min

Reviewed by: Carlen Oliveira North American & Canadian Contiki Trip Manager

When it comes to Canadian beauty, British Columbia, Alberta, and the Maritimes usually get all the hype. But take it from a local, there are a bunch of places to visit in Ontario that will make your jaw drop too. 

From countless Provincial parks brimming with campsites and sandy beaches, sparkling blue lakes perfect for canoeing and fishing, to the luxurious cottages in Northern Ontario and rugged landscape of the Canadian Shield, Ontario shouldn’t be left off your travel bucket list.  

Fall is one of the most magical times to visit, when crisp mornings are illuminated by bright yellow maple leaves, golden Tameracks, and deep reds that are unique to this beautiful province. But leaf-peeping isn’t the only thing to do at this time of year. Here are our picks for the most beautiful places to visit in Ontario this fall.

Ultimate Canada

1. Albion Falls

The Hamilton area is just a couple hours drive west of Toronto, located at the tip of Lake Ontario and part of the Niagara Escarpment. Aside from being home to McMaster University, it’s known for having many beautiful waterfalls to see, with Albion Falls being arguably the most impressive and picturesque of the bunch.

The falls are wide and have a bunch of rock steps throughout. This unique feature allows the water to fall in beautiful ripples down the cliffside. You can’t walk down to the water, but you can take in its spectacular views safely from a viewing platform. It’s a natural stunner and definitely a local favourite. 

Image source: Joe deSousa / unsplash

2. Ouimet Canyon

We may not have anything to rival the Grand Canyon in Ontario, but Ouimet Canyon is still pretty amazing. Ouimet is about 100 meters deep and provides a beautiful combo of golden forests and rock formations. Plus, you’ll find amazing trails and lookout points in the park and have the chance to see some unique arctic plant life as well.

3. Norfolk County

Don’t sleep on the southern parts of Ontario, it’s got some great gems for fall foliage too! Head towards Lake Erie and make a stop at Long Point Provincial park, whose natural landscape has been recognized as a UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve. 

After a day of adventures, you can head to one of the award winning wine and craft beer makers in Norfolk County. Or perhaps you can relax in style at an eco-resort with glamping tents and wooden pods while enjoying one of the best views of the biosphere reserve! 

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4. Killarney

Why not checkout “the jewel of the Ontario parks system” and the place that inspired many works of art by iconic Canadian painters, commonly known as the Group of Seven. Here you can get lost in the stunning Canadian wilderness from the Georgian Bay Coast’s pink granite, to the La Cloche Mountains’ white quartzite ridges. Oh, and did I mention the sapphire lakes near Jack Pine hills? 

Throw on your hiking shoes and give the trails a try, and if you’re up for a challenge, hike the incredible 80 km loop of the La Cloche-Silhouette Trail. 

5. Agawa Canyon

Not much of an outdoorsy person but still want to enjoy the fall leaves? Not to worry. You can hop on a train that takes you right through the rugged landscapes unique to Northern Ontario. 

The Agawa Canyon train ride is one of the most popular train routes in North America and for good reason. There’s a full day tour specifically designed to show off the best of the fall foliage and a spectacular view of Agawa Canyon Park. As a bonus, Bridal Veil Falls and Black Beaver Falls are close by!

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6. Sleeping Giant Provincial Park

This iconic Ontario landmark has much more to offer than just a cool photo op. Once you’ve snapped your pic of the Sleeping Giant, a natural rock peninsula, rising out of the shining waters of Lake Superior, enjoy over 100 km of trails through the boreal forest. And if you’re not afraid of heights, spend a day hiking to the summit of Ontario’s tallest vertical cliffs! 

Keep your eyes peeled, it’s also a great place to spot all sorts of Canadian wildlife, like deer, wolves, foxes and over 200 bird species.

7. Niagara Falls & Niagara-on-the-Lake

The one, the only, the honeymoon capital of the world – Niagara Falls . This area is truly popular for a reason, and we often forget how beautiful and magnificent the falls actually are. You can view them from the Canadian or American side, from the water by boat, high in the sky in a helicopter, or even from behind the falls. Niagara Falls is really a stunning and beautiful natural wonder. At this time of year you can enjoy lower crowds and more comfortable temperatures, too. See them for yourself on our Eastern Canada Adventure trip.

Not to mention, with a quick half hour drive from the touristy streets of Clifton Hill, you can find yourself in the much quieter, picturesque town of Niagara-on-the-Lake. This small town is straight out of a Hallmark movie, nestled in the heart of the wine region of Ontario. With quaint boutiques, antique shops, a world class theater, stunning waterfront views and perhaps a horse drawn carriage wandering the streets, you’ll quickly understand why this spot was named the prettiest town in Ontario.

Image source: Contiki

8. Rouge Urban National Park

When you think of Toronto, you might not think of vast forests and acres of hiking trails, but the city is actually home to Canada’s first (and only) Urban National Park. That means you can take the train or city bus and be able to enjoy stunning wilderness right in the middle of a bustling city that’s 22 times larger than Central Park! 

The Rouge has over 12 kilometers of hiking trails that take you through meadows, farmlands, forests and wetlands across 60 acres of protected land, making it a diverse and very accessible area to enjoy what the fall season has to offer.

Not to mention, it’s also home to Toronto’s only designated campground that’s RV friendly, so call up your friends for a quick and easy weekend getaway! 

9. Prince Edward County

Not to be confused with the home of freckled redhead Anne of Green Gables, Prince Edward Island, Prince Edward County is home to nine different regions, each with their own distinct charm. 

Whether you’re wanting to relax by the waters edge at Sandbanks (one of the best sandy beaches Ontario has to offer), or wander the quaint Canadian version of Stars Hollow (from Gilmore Girls!) that is Picton, there’s something for everyone!  

The area has strong agricultural roots and was once known as the Garden County of Canada, so it’s no surprise they go full out in the fall! With music festivals, Pumpkinfest, Halloween events and more, this area is full of sights and activities. 

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10. Georgian Bay & Blue Mountains

Perfect for a weekend getaway, why not head towards the honorary sixth Great Lake, Georgian Bay. Here you’ll find nearly 2,000 kilometers of shoreline, 30,000 islands, clear blue waters and towering cliffs where you can enjoy all sorts of fun fall activities. 

Also nestled on the shores of Georgian Bay, is the Blue Mountains. Are they mountains per se? No. They’re technically a giant hill, but it’s the closest thing we have to a mountain and it’s still a pretty beautiful place to be. Fall is the Blue Mountain’s most colourful season, so soak up those eye-popping panoramas from the Summit View Pavilion or head to the Harvest Festival for some seasonal fun.

11. 1000 Islands

The 1000 Islands is actually over 1800 islands, all scattered along the St. Lawrence River between the USA and Canada . It’s the perfect place for boating, fishing, or relaxing at a cottage. Each island has something beautiful to see, and you’ll even find hidden gems as you explore.

The beauty is all around the St. Lawrence River, and the beautiful blue water gives such a stunning contrast to all of the islands of green. If you have the time you can check out the famous Boldt Castle on Heart Island by boat or by helicopter!

Image source: Patrick Lalonde / unsplash

12. Kawartha Highlands Provincial Park

Just a 2-hour drive from Toronto, this Provincial park is a great choice if you want to get out of the hustle and bustle of the city and enjoy the beautiful fall foliage without having to drive as far north as Algonquin! It’s also not as well known to tourists, so you’ll be able to relax in a more serene, quiet park to really take in all that nature has to offer. 

For those of you who love to canoe, or want to give the good ole’ Canadian pastime a go, you’ll be in paddling heaven. Kawartha is a great place for novice paddlers and portage pro’s alike – there’s guided tours you can book, and over 100 well maintained backcountry sites to adventure to.

13. Tobermorey

When it comes to places to visit in Ontario, this one makes it on most Canadian’s bucket lists . Truthfully, the area surrounding Tobermory could have its own list of 15 beautiful spots to explore, but when you combine all it has to offer, you understand why it’s so popular. From the ridiculously blue-green waters at Indian Head Cove and the epic Grotto swimming spots to the sunken shipwrecks and stone wonders of Flowerpot Island, you’re gonna need to free up some space in that camera roll before your visit. 

Bruce Peninsula National Park and Fathom Five National Marine Park provide endless beautiful exploring opportunities in the Tobermory area. It’s absolutely worth the drive from the bigger cities for this little piece of natural heaven.

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14. Manitoulin Island

Ahhh, island life, but Canadian style… This stunner in Lake Huron, Northern Ontario, is the largest freshwater island in the world. Manitoulin provides a beautiful glimpse into some aspects of Canadian Indigenous culture, and with its rustic beauty and secluded vibe, it offers an idyllic setting to relax in.

The island itself has over 100 lakes to explore, along with waterfalls, trails, beaches, and lighthouses which are all hidden within the rugged scenery of Manitoulin. The cup and saucer trail is unmissable – especially in the fall when you’re faced with a sweeping mosaic of colours. Plus, in the peak months of fall, it happens to be one of the best places to see the Northern Lights . You don’t want to miss this one.

15. Algonquin

Just a couple hours drive from Toronto, Algonquin Provincial Park is the oldest Provincial Park in Canada, and is the best place to visit if you want to take in those stunning fall colours that are unique to Ontario. The Ontario Park website even has a fall colour report that shows you when and where is the best place for peak foliage! 

If you’re looking to get away from the city and connect with nature, this is the spot. From world class trout-fishing, beginner friendly and experienced hiking trails, to car and portage only camping sites, you’ll never want to leave. Not to mention, Algonquin Provincial Park is also a great place to spot Canadian wildlife like moose and bears!

Image source: Ariana Kaminski / unsplash

16. Muskoka

Ontario’s well known for its iconic cottage country, so it should come as no surprise that Muskoka makes it to the top of the list. This province actually has over 250,000 lakes and holds about 1/5th of the world’s freshwater supply. Thanks to those lakes, there are countless places where you can be close to the water and stay the night in a luxurious cabin (which are more like mansions) or tents. It’s also a spot where the rich and famous come to get some R&R, so you might even be neighbours with your favourite celebrity if you’re lucky! 

Muskoka in particular provides some of the most rugged natural scenery, with endless beautiful lakes to choose from in close vicinity to each other. It’s also one of the best places in Ontario to admire the best leaf colours in the fall thanks to the sprawling views of Canadian boreal forests.

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13 Best Places To Visit In Ontario During Winter

Ontario is a large province with many activities and attractions for all kinds of people. Whether you love spending your time in the confines of a city or being out and about in nature, you won’t go wrong with these places to visit in Ontario during winter.

The province turns into a winter wonderland packed with dozens of activities during the cold months. From skiing trails and outdoor rinks to Christmas markets and art galleries, deciding where to go in Ontario can be difficult. If you find yourself in that predicament, don’t worry any further. We’ve put together a comprehensive guide on the best places to visit in Ontario in winter. With this guide, you’ll be fully informed about your preferred winter getaways in Ontario .

How Cold Does Ontario Get In Winter?

No matter how one looks at it, winter in Ontario can get cold. Frozen lakes, beautiful frozen waterfalls and vast blankets of snow type of cold. Being the second-largest province in Canada, Ontario has a variety of climates, ranging from extremely cold to relatively mild.

The secret to managing the coldness of Ontario during the winter is to dress in layers. Walking outside, you may find yourself in temperatures of -30°C or lower (when taking wind chill into account), but the cities generally stay around 0°C. Hence, we Torontonians start crying the minute mercury goes below 0°C.

Multiple layers on your body help you quickly adjust to the temperature changes while going in and out of buildings.

What to pack for winter in Ontario

It is important to dress appropriately for the coldest months of the year to make the most of winter. Layering is essential for staying warm, and materials like wool and thermal fabrics are great choices.

Adding a high-performance winter coat and snow pants to your wardrobe is also advised for outdoor activities. You also want to cover your extremities, as gloves, a toque, balaclava, scarf, and thick wool/thermal socks should all be included in your winter wardrobe.

Lastly, winter boots should reach up to the calf to allow you to traverse the snow easily.

The Best Winter Destinations in Ontario

If you’re set on spending winter in Ontario, here are some of the best sites to visit in this wonderland. 

Casa Loma, a Gothic Revival-style mansion dating back to the turn of the 20th century, is one of Toronto’s most renowned tourist attractions.

It is a popular spot for TV filming, photoshoots, weddings, and special events, boasting the awe-inspiring architecture and stunning estate gardens. Every year, the estate is transformed into a winter wonderland with enchanting decorations and lights. For an even more magical experience, visitors can explore the castle and its century-old artifacts.

Toronto Christmas Market

The Toronto Christmas Market is one of the most highly-rated Christmas markets worldwide and is a must-see if you’re in Ontario during this period.

Every year, in November and December, the market is held in the Distillery Historic District. It offers many attractions, such as light canopies, cobblestone pathways, red-brick buildings, entertainers, and a 50-foot-high, fully adorned Christmas tree.

Whether you’re looking for unique gifts, souvenirs, stocking stuffers, clothes, handmade jewelry, or even a festive atmosphere, the Toronto Christmas Market has something for everyone. There are a variety of specialty shops selling an array of items, from postcards to pottery, and you can even indulge in some sweet treats from Eva’s Chimney Cakes or Brick Street Bakery.

To top it all off, nothing beats a cup of hot mulled wine or hot chocolate in the wintery weather! Trust us!

Niagara Falls

Niagara Falls, one of North America’s most famous landmarks, draws in millions of visitors annually. This natural wonder sits on the Canada-US border by the Niagara River and is a great visit all year round. However, the falls turn into a peaceful paradise without crowds in the winter — which is why I recommend visiting around this time.

Pathways boasting trees covered in snow, chunks of floating ice, and 50-meter cascades await here. If lady luck is on your side, you may see frozen parts of the falls. 

You can also enjoy 360-degree views from the Skylon Tower or on a 12-minute scenic helicopter flight above the falls. The former even features a revolving restaurant that ensures you enjoy the jaw-dropping scenery with delicious cuisine.

Stay until evening to enjoy the Niagara Falls Winter Festival of Lights, where 8 km of the Niagara Parkway is lit up. This spectacle is especially mesmerizing in winter as the falls reflect the rainbow lighting.

Blue Mountain

Blue Mountain is easily one of Ontario’s best places to go in winter. This winter wonderland is a treasure trove for anyone who loves winter sports. Skiing, snowshoeing, snowboarding, tubing, and the like are all offered.

I recommend going to the wondrous Blue Village to make the most of your visit. There are 42 tracks and 16 chairlifts, and lessons and gear rentals to help you take on the slopes. Once here, be sure to skate at the Woodview Mountaintop to enjoy panoramic views of the Niagara Escarpment.

Don’t fret if you aren’t a fan of adrenaline-filled winter activities — there are plenty of relaxing things to do in the town. Take in waterfront views and misty air while strolling through Sunset View Park. As an alternative, I recommend visiting a spa and enjoying serenity as the most capable hands pamper you. Since I consider the resort one of the top places to visit near Toronto in winter, I recommend you visit as part of a day trip from Toronto .

Rideau Canal Skateway

Rideau Canal Skateway is considered one of the quintessential winter places to visit in Ontario. Every winter season, this UNESCO World Heritage Site hosts thousands of visitors ready to put their feet to use. 

Once the canal has frozen over, it takes shape as the world’s largest skating rink, according to the Guinness Book of World Records. The 7,8-kilometer-long rink offers you 165,621 m² of ice to skate on.

Tie your skates and glide around downtown Ottawa for the best stretch of the rink. Skaters here zoom past many of the iconic landmarks uniquely entrenched in Canadian history. Perhaps my favourite part of the downtown section of the canal is the opportunity to enjoy some delicacies from one of the kiosks here.

No winter trip is complete without a visit to the nation’s capital. During winter, the trees, buildings, streets, and everything in between get covered in fluffy white snow that makes for landscapes just begging to be photographed.

Not only does Ottawa look good during winter, but it also offers many Ontario winter activities . That is, of course, in addition to the marvellous Rideau Canal Skateway.

Top of the list is the Ottawa Winterlude *, a festival with something for everyone. For two weeks, attendants participate in ski racing, ice sculpting competitions, dancing parties and more.

Another activity you can’t miss is the Gatineau Loppet, a cross-country ski event with several races. Annually, over 2,000 skiers participate — and you can join in on the fun as anyone can register for it. Set up on the sides and watch the racers zoom down the slopes if you aren’t ready to compete in the competition.

*The Ottawa Winterlude has been cancelled for 2022, but keep an eye on their website for any changes.

Another city destination to consider as one of the places to visit in winter in Ontario is Kingston . It’s a student city on the Lake Ontario shore renowned for its beautiful scenery and limestone buildings.

Start your Kingston exploration with a stroll around Lake Ontario Park, which boasts scenic lake views. For more adventurous outdoor fun, opt for Frontenac Provincial Park, a haven of trails winding through a lush forest.

Afterwards, visit old Kingston to fill up some of the best coffee and food the city offers. Stroll the snow-covered streets admiring the landscape with a coffee in hand.

During the Christmas season, you’ll find dozens of Christmas markets selling everything from baked delicacies and light displays to gifts. For the other months, I recommend skating at Springer Market Square.

Kingston is also the gateway to the “Thousand Islands,” an archipelago with myriad outdoor activities.

With good reason, Toronto is arguably Canada’s most popular tourist destination. It has a plethora of Ontario winter attractions in addition to the splendour on offer in the summer.

Many people come to Toronto for the Christmas markets, with the Distillery District being the most famous. During the festive period, raid these markets for spectacular gifts, ride a Ferris wheel, and get serenaded by local performers.

If you’re visiting after the Christmas decorations have been taken down, don’t worry, you won’t be left out to dry. The first stop should be Nathan Phillips Square, where you can skate in a rink with live DJs often around. Glide across the ice underneath brightly lit archways with the iconic Toronto sign in the background.

There are also some landmarks to stop at, the first being Casa Loma. The gothic mansion looks straight out of a fairytale and is even more majestic when the light displays are brought to life.

Secondly, visit the iconic CN Tower and stop at the observation deck or the restaurant. Once here, you’re spoiled with 360-degree views of the city’s skyline. If you’re brave enough, people-watch those on the ground through the tower’s glass floor.

The Niagara Escarpment, museums and art galleries, a skiing center and hiking trails — that’s what Burlington has to offer . This city is one of the nicest places to visit in Ontario in winter, with a good selection of indoor and outdoor fun.

In the outdoors, shred the slopes while snowboarding or skiing at the Glen Eden Ski and Snowboard Center or take to the snow on a toboggan. Try snowshoeing through a part of the Bruce Trail for something less serious. During the hike, you’ll see plenty of greenery and awe-inspiring waterfalls.

Afterwards, replenish your energy at one of the bars, restaurants, and cafés driving the booming culinary scene.

Plenty of engaging activities await indoors if you aren’t down for some frosty outdoor fun. The first stops should be the ECHO Leahy Center or Ireland House Museum for any history buff interested in the city’s history. Check out over 1,000 ceramics from national artists at the Art Gallery of Burlington for the art enthusiast.

When it comes to natural beauty in winter, there may not be a city in Ontario that compares to Hamilton. This small town is home to over 100 waterfalls, all of which are worth chasing. They make for fantastic photo ops and are also a marvel.

Besides Niagara Falls, Hamilton is the best place to visit in Ontario for frozen cascades. Often, the waterfalls here freeze solid and create a mesmerizing palette of snow whites and pale blues with stone backgrounds. 

If you’d like to enjoy this fantasy-like phenomenon, it’s best to visit around January. Some of the more popular cascades here are Tiffany Falls, Webster Falls, and Felker’s Falls.

Unlike the more popular cities of Ottawa and Toronto, Hamilton’s downtown area isn’t too lively. However, it boasts incredible light display decorations during the festive season, with a large Christmas tree as the show’s star.

Kitchener isn’t high on most people’s destination bucket lists for Ontario, which is what makes it a great getaway in my eyes. Despite its small-town vibe, there are a lot of fun things to do in Kitchener during the cold months.

At the top of the list is skating, skating, and skating. Okay, I may exaggerate a little, but the town has over 30 outdoor skating rinks, including those in neighbouring Waterloo. The one at Waterloo Public Square is arguably the most popular among these rinks.

If skating isn’t your thing, take to the slopes for more winter sports. The Chicopee Ski Club is most people’s go-to, with skiing, snowboarding, and tubing all waiting for you. You can opt for Chicopee Tube Park for some kid-friendly tubing for families. McLennan Park is a great alternative spot if you find Chicopee too crowded. 

Once you’ve had your fair share of fun, take in scenic snow-covered natural greenery and landscapes at the Huron Natural Area.

Indoors, you can enjoy a few interactive exhibitions at TheMuseum — they rotate every few months, so I can’t recommend any specific one. If museums don’t pique your interest, marvel at contemporary artwork by local and international artists at the Kitchener-Waterloo Art Gallery (closed on Mondays).

West of Kitchener, you’ll find the quaint city of Stratford , which is most famous for being Justin Bieber’s hometown. Pop sensation aside, the city is another good place to visit in Ontario during winter.

Firstly, make your way to River Valley Winter Tube Slide and tube slide down one of eight lanes. Alternatively, you can move over snow on foot while snowshoeing, hiking, or trekking on various trails in Stratford. This can be done at the beautiful Wildwood Conservation Area and the Avon River Trail.

For a trail of a different kind, take a walk on the Chocolate Trail, that’s famous among those with a sweet tooth. This stretch of road is sprinkled with various chocolate stores selling some of Stratford’s best chocolates. Grab a bite at the Stratford Slow Food Market for more filling food between 10:00 and 13:00.

The Stratford Winterfest is probably the city’s most famous event. This fantastic festival is a real winter wonderland, with ice carving competitions, fat biking, sledding, and igloo building on offer. It’s incredible fun for the entire family and shouldn’t be missed.

Algonquin Provincial Park

A national park should always be part of any travel itinerary for nature lovers. Ontario doesn’t disappoint in that regard, with Algonquin Provincial Park a quintessential visit for enjoying the province’s natural beauty.

The park has a network of trails varying in difficulty and length, so bring your snowshoes and get ready for a scenic hike amongst snow-covered trees. There are also some ski trails if you’d rather slide your way around the park, with the Fen Lake Ski Trail among the popular choices.

For the adrenaline junkies, you can explore the vegetation atop a snowmobile on the Bon Echo Loop. With 200 km of pathways and diners scattered around the area, you can make this a frosty full-day escape.

Matthews Maple Syrup

Canada is renowned for its sweet Maple Syrup. You will always find a bottle of that golden elixir in our place.

During the winter months, frozen maple taffy is a must-have and Matthews Maple Syrup is the place to experience it. At Matthews Maple Syrup’s sugar shack, guests have the opportunity to learn about maple syrup production and observe maple syrup being poured onto the snow to create frozen taffy.

As spring approaches and the weather warms up, visitors can gain further insight into maple syrup production and watch how sap is collected from maple trees and transformed into maple syrup.

Huntsville and Muskoka

Muskoka and the town of Huntsville are some of the most incredible places to see in Ontario during winter. It spoils visitors with many winter activities while surrounded by beautiful trees draped in snow.

In Hunstville, you can go back to when dogs were the chosen method for sledding. The trusted husky team will take you on a winter journey through the winter wonderland in Muskoka.

If you’d rather rely on your own two feet, go ahead and cover some of the skiing trails in Muskoka. For anyone who wants to go beyond the surface, grab your snowshoes and venture deeper into the backcountry.

Some outdoor skating rinks are begging to be shredded, offering excellent skating through a snow-covered forest.

Bruce Peninsula National Park

Visiting the Bruce Peninsula National Park in winter is a great way to relax and enjoy the beauty of the snow-covered landscape. The park is surrounded by Lake Huron, offering a peaceful environment to explore on foot or cross-country skis. You can admire the majestic icicles, snow-covered trees, and cozy cabins for rent for longer stays. For those who enjoy winter activities, there are plenty of trails to explore. Pack some books and warm clothes, and you will have a memorable winter experience!

Lake Nipissing

If you’re a Canadian or have been in the country for a while, you know how popular the sport of ice fishing is. Every year, millions of people carve holes and wait with bated breath (no pun intended) to catch a big one.

For this activity, Lake Nipissing is easily one of the top places to visit in Ontario. Create a hole on top of the frozen lake, get out your rod and wait. While the cold may be an obstacle, it will be worth the amount of joy of catching a fish.

Once you’ve caught one, get back into your cabin and start working on your meal. You can sink your teeth into it or enjoy a stroll outside while admiring the lake’s landscape. Tip: Since you may be outside for a long time, layer up for the best warmth.

Mono Cliffs Provincial Park

Mono Cliffs Provincial Park is the place to go if you’re looking to experience nature and its unique winter landscapes.

This park is the perfect winter getaway with its scenic hiking trails, lookouts, and stunning rock formations. For a truly unforgettable experience, take the 1.3 km Spillway Trail and weave through vertical rock walls, frozen canyons, and caves while admiring the snow-covered trees and valley from the lookout point.

To avoid crowds, it’s best to plan your trip during the off-season and reserve a permit in advance if visiting in peak season, as parking is limited. Despite being close to Toronto, you won’t be the only one there, but it will still be a peaceful and memorable visit.

Torrance Barrens Dark Sky Preserve

The Torrance Barrens Conservation Area is ideal for sky-gazing, with its notably clear night sky, unobstructed horizon, and a limited number of trees. On a clear night, visitors to the Dark Sky Preserve can observe the Milky Way, satellites, and perhaps even shooting stars!

Final Thoughts: Places to Visit in Ontario in Winter

Ontario is a massive province with many big and small towns and cities, parks, and natural attractions. Each place has a unique profile that offers myriad winter activities in Ontario for anyone willing to brave the cold. From tubing with family and zooming down the slopes to marvelling at local art and skating outdoors, there’s no shortage of fun here.

Pack your warmest items and prepare for an incredible winter wonderland. Whether you go to Ottawa, Hamilton, the Blue Mountains, or any other destinations here, you’re in for a fulfilling, frosty time.

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These Are The 11 Best Small Towns In Ontario To Visit, According To Locals

Ontario has so many beautiful small towns to explore, from lakeside villages to tiny hidden gems.

In a recent Instagram Q&A, we asked locals for the very best small towns in Ontario . People shared their favourite destinations to visit and we rounded up a list of the top 11 recommendations.

Whether you're looking for sandy beaches, quaint downtowns, old-world vibes or thrilling attractions, these destinations offer an array of experiences to enjoy.

Here are the 11 best small towns in Ontario, straight from locals themselves. You may want to plan a trip to some of these charming spots!

www.instagram.com

Address: Port Hope, ON

Why You Need To Go: One of the most voted-for towns was Port Hope, with three nominations. This destination is full of charm and the "historic downtown is filled to the brim with 19th century architecture and incredible stories," according to the website.

During the summer months, you can enjoy two sandy beaches as well as picturesque hiking trails and festivals.

Port Hope Tourism website

Address: Paris, ON

Why You Need To Go: The small town of Paris also received three votes and with its picturesque streets and old-world charm, it's easy to see why this spot is popular.

While it may not be in France, it still has European vibes and is a fun spot to spend a day browsing local shops. There are many delicious restaurants where you can grab a bite and gaze over the river.

The town is surrounded by trails and natural beauty so you can hike, bike and more around the area.

Downtown Paris website

Address: Elora, ON

Why You Need To Go: Tied with Port Hope and Paris is Elora. This town is known for its beauty and features sweet local shops, galleries and more to enjoy.

It's actually been dubbed "Ontario's most beautiful village," according to the BIA website.

The picturesque Elora Gorge is a stunning natural wonder to see, as is the Elora Quarry. This magical swimming spot is surrounded by limestone cliffs and is popular during the warmer months.

The Elora Mill Hotel & Spa is the place to be if you're looking to get pampered or enjoy a night of luxury.

Elora BIA website

Address: Kincardine, ON

Why You Need To Go: This tiny beach town received two nominations and it's a hidden gem for summer getaways. The Scottish village is nestled on the shores of Lake Huron and features a long stretch of sandy beach, turquoise waters and a charming lighthouse.

You can enjoy a meal on one of the patios while gazing over the water, paddle board or surf across the waves and check out the charming shops downtown.

During the warmer months, the town hosts a weekly Pipe Band Parade and you can march through the downtown along with the pipers.

Visit Kincardine website

Niagara-on-the-Lake

Address: Niagara-on-the-Lake, ON

Why You Need To Go: This charming destination also received two shoutouts and is magical spot for a weekend retreat. Tucked away amidst lush vineyards, the village is home to attractions, spas, wineries, shops, restaurants and more.

Whether you're enjoying the "authentic Christmas village" during the holiday season, sipping ice wine in the winter or wandering along the flower-filled streets in the summer, Niagara-on-the-Lake is an idyllic year-round getaway spot.

Aside from visiting the many wineries, you can catch a show at the Shaw Festival, shop at the boutiques, visit one of the many festivals and more.

Niagara-on-the-Lake website

Address: Stratford, ON

Why You Need To Go: Though Stratford is technically a city, it still received two nominations due to its small-town charm. It's known for its theatre scene and you can see some amazing shows during the annual Stratford Festival.

From lively festivals to cute B&Bs, drool-worthy restaurants and scenic parks, you'll want to spend more than a day in this destination.

You'll also want to save some time to explore the local shops and pick up some unique goodies.

Visit Stratford website

Merrickville

Address: Merrickville, ON

Why You Need To Go: This quaint town was named "Canada's Most Beautiful Village" by Communities in Bloom and it's a magical spot to explore.

This "unique and vibrant Victorian village on The Rideau Canal" has many shops where you can find everything from home decor to fine food and artwork.

You can go on a walking tour of the town, paddle along the Rideau, and glide around the village ice rink during the winter.

Merrickville-Wolford website

Address: Port Dover, ON

Why You Need To Go: Located two hours from Toronto, this beach town is "one of Ontario's best kept secrets." It's a magical place to visit during the summer months and offers " a remarkable array of festivals, beautiful scenery and unique experiences."

You can enjoy the local shops, book a stay in one of the heritage hotels, wander along the pier or spend the day lounging on a sandy beach at this charming destination.

Port Dover website

Address: Tobermory, ON

Why You Need To Go: This tiny town is a summer paradise and it will whisk you away to another world. The harbour town is "surrounded by crystal clear water, the majestic Niagara Escarpment and is home to Flowerpot Island along with two national parks."

You can take a dip in turquoise waters, enjoy a meal on a lakeside patio, shop for souvenirs and get lost in nature at this breathtaking spot.

Tobermory website

Address: Goderich, ON

Why You Need To Go: Known as "Canada's prettiest town," this quaint destination is worth a road trip. The town sits on the shores of Lake Huron and features a cute downtown and beautiful beaches.

The Town Square, which is actually shaped like an octagon, is full of cafes, eateries, local shops and more to enjoy.

Goderich has three main beaches where you can relax and take a dip on warm summer days.

A fun fact about the town is that it's home to "the world’s largest underground salt mine" and it's as deep as the CN Tower is tall.

Ontario's West Coast website

Address: Picton, ON

Why You Need To Go: Situated in Prince Edward County, Picton and the surrounding area are known for "its Loyalist heritage, architecturally-significant buildings, quirky town hill and Main Street shops."

There's lots to do in the town, from seeing a show at the Regent Theatre to exploring the shops and visiting some of the nearby wineries.

Sandbanks Provincial Park is a popular spot to check out in the area and features dreamy white sand beaches and crystal clear waters.

Visit the County website

There are so many incredible small towns to explore in the province, so start planning those road trips.

Before you get going, check out our Responsible Travel Guide so you can be informed, be safe, be smart, and most of all, be respectful on your adventure.

7 Breathtaking Drives in Ontario: Ontario Road Trips That You’ll Love

Ontario is a province best experienced on the road. Discover the best drives in Ontario from the far north to the deep south.

Ontario is blessed with some of the most gorgeous drives in Canada. I have driven through Ontario from top to bottom on countless occasions. And I’m constantly left in awe over just how incredible some of the most beautiful drives in Ontario are.

The landscape in this province ranges from the dramatic rockiness of the Canadian Shield to the sparkling lakes of the Muskoka region, and even sub-tropical fern-filled landscapes in the region of Windsor-Essex .

The most spectacular Ontario drives don’t just pass through romantic regions such as Niagara-on-the-Lake. Some of these Ontario road trips passed through seldom-seen landscapes in Northern Ontario.

But no matter where you live or are visiting in Ontario, you’ll find some of the best drives in Ontario nearby. So fill up the gas tank and pack your snacks. Because these are the most beautiful drives in Ontario.

Incredible Scenic Drives In Ontario

Ontario is vast and beautiful. And with over 650,000 kilometres of roadway snaking through the province, you’ll find it all.

Whether you’re pairing your drive with some of the province’s incredible wineries or looking to get physical on the province’s most beautiful hikes , here are some of the best drives in Ontario.

I know that I won’t be able to get everyone’s favourite Ontario drives into this article, so if I missed one, drop a comment below to tell us your favourite Ontario road trip. Or, swing by the Ultimate Ontario Facebook community and share a photo of your trip. The Ultimate Ontario community is awesome and we would love to hear your ideas.

From Waterfalls To Vineyards On The Niagara Parkway From Niagara Falls To Niagara-On-The-Lake

The Niagara Parkway has everything you want for an Ontario road trip. This drive isn’t a long one. But what it lacks in distance, it makes up for with a combination of history, flavours, and incredible views.

The Niagara Parkway can be done in about 30-minutes. But that’s only if you want to do the drive itself. If you want to really experience one of the best Ontario drives, you’ll want to give yourself between 2-4 hours, plus anything that you want to do in Niagara Falls.

Along the Niagara the Niagara Parkway you’ll experience historic sites such as the monument to Isaac Brock and the historic homestead of Canadian hero Laura Secord .

You’ll also encounter some of the most incredible scenery in the province. This, of course, starts with the legendary Niagara Falls. But as you continue on this road trip through southern Ontario you’ll also take in some of the most beautiful views of the Niagara River.

If you’d like to take a tour while you’re in Niagara Falls, we’d highly recommend booking this helicopter tour while you’re there. But if you prefer staying closer to sea level, booking this jet boat tour is an excellent way to see the beauty of the Niagara River from the water.

As the Niagara Parkway makes its way closer to Niagara-on-the-Lake, the escarpment views change from towering cliff faces to the agricultural beauty of Niagara wine country. Along the way, you can stop for some tasty bites at one of the many roadside produce stands.

Distance: 24.1 km

Driving Time : 20 minutes

Recommended Time: 2-4 hours

Experience Ontario’s Rich History Along The Loyalist Highway And Highway 2 From Picton To Kingston

Another one of Ontario’s most beautiful drives is the Loyalist Parkway that stretches the shores of Lake Ontario. This gorgeous Lake Ontario road trip begins in the quaint Prince Edward County town of Picton.

After winding through northern Prince Edward County cheese country, road trippers will take a scenic trip on the Glenora Ferry across Lake Ontario waters before continuing along the Loyalist Parkway towards Kingston.

Along the mainland shores, you’ll experience some of Ontario’s most historic towns. Some towns, like Bath, Ontario, were settled by the United Empire Loyalists as far back as 1784. Make sure you stop at The Lodge Coffee House in Bath . Along with the blue waters of Lake Ontario, you’ll find majestic colonial homes, small-town diners, and some of the most gorgeous properties in the province.

As the drive pulls through the historic city of Kingston, you’ll find an incredible selection of restaurants. There’s everything from great local pubs to high-end fare. If you’re thinking of breaking up your Loyalist Parkway/HWY2 Ontario drive into two days, Kingston also offers a wonderful place to stop for the night.

You can also combine your visit to Kingston with incredible sites such as historic Fort Henry, the Kingston Penitentiary, and Kingston’s incredible waterfront.

Distance: 87.1 km

Driving Time: 60 minutes

Recommended Time: 3-5 hours

Wildlife And Landscapes On The Highway 60 Corridor Through Algonquin Park

There are few more iconic natural areas in Ontario than Algonquin Park. Algonquin is one of Canada’s most famous landmarks, with people from all over the world travelling to this gorgeous area near Huntsville.

The HWY 60 corridor, which passes through southern Algonquin Park could make it one of the best Ontario drives on scenery alone. But add easy access to Ontario’s most incredible natural playground, and the high likelihood of seeing local wildlife to the list, and this becomes one of the best drives in the country.

The HWY 60 corridor drive is a straight shot from the East Gate to the West Gate. But your drive can easily be extended by combining it with camping, beaches, museums, and more. A stop at the Algonquin Park Visitors Centre at kilometer 43 is a must.

Make sure to include some dips into the park roads to maximize your HWY 60 road trip. Some of the most beautiful sections lie within the dirt roads of Algonquin Park.

Along the way you may see moose, black bear, deer, bald eagles, beavers, and much more.

Distance: 56.5 km

Driving Time: 40 minutes

Recommended Time: 3-4 hours

Alternatively, if you’d like someone else to drive, and take a day tour from Toronto to Algonquin Park, booking this tour is a great idea!

Blue Waters And Towering Cliffs Of The Lake Superior Circle Tour

One of the most epic and scenic drives in Ontario is the route around the world’s largest freshwater Lake (by area), the aptly named Lake Superior.

The Lake Superior Circle Tour stretches for an incredible 2,092 kilometres. It’s far and away from the longest of the drives in Ontario on our list. However, it’s also a bit of a cheat. You see, part of the Lake Superior Circle Tour dips into the states of Minnesota, Wisconsin, and Michigan in the United States.

Don’t have a passport? No problem! It’s just as easy to circle back near the border and look for new and unique Lake Superior scenery on the way back. This route is still an epic 767 km one-way journey and is perfect for those RVing in Ontario.

With all of this road to travel, a drive along the Lake Superior Circle will have dramatic landscape changes happening before your eyes. You’ll pass lighthouses, waterfalls, sparkling lakes, and towering cliffs. And all of these will be dotted with some of the routes’ most fascinating historical markers. These include the magnificent Agawa Rock indigenous pictographs .

One of the things that make the Lake Superior Circle one of the best Ontario drives is that it can be as active, or relaxed as you would like. The drive itself is beautiful enough that you can sit back and enjoy the views. But you can also take part in incredible activities such as some of Ontario’s best hiking , biking, climbing, kayaking, and canoeing.

No matter how you tackle the Lake Superior Circle, you’ll soon realize why this greatest of lakes holds such an important place in the history and culture of Ontario.

Distance: 2,092 kilometres

Driving Time: 24 hours

Recommended Time: 5-7 days

Fishing Towns And Ferries of the Georgian Bay Coastal Route

The Georgian Bay Coastal Route is another big undertaking among the best drives in Ontario. This 1,350-kilometre route explores some of the most beautiful and accessible areas of the Great Lakes shoreline in the province.

What makes the Georgian Bay coastal route such a magical journey isn’t just the views and landscapes, and the azure waters of the Georgian Bay shores, but also the serene pace of driving through some of Ontario’s most idyllic small towns.

Georgian Bay is contained within the southeastern section of Lake Huron. And the coastal route winds through some of the Ontario heartland’s most important regions including Manitoulin Island , Sudbury, Killarney, and the Bruce Peninsula.

As you travel the Georgian Bay coastal route watch out for incredible Ontario lighthouses such as Big Tub Lighthouse in Tobermory and Kagawong Lighthouse on Manitoulin Island.

You’ll also get the chance to feel the sand between your toes at some of the best beaches in Ontario. And for those looking to take a dip, you can jump in the mystical waters of Bruce Peninsula Provincial Park’s Blue Grotto .

Distance: 1,350-kilometre

Driving Time: 10 hours

Recommended Time: 3-4 days

Visit Canada’s Southernmost Point On The Niagara Falls To Pelee Island Drive

For one of the most beautiful drives in southern Ontario, you’ll want to make sure you have an Ontario Provincial Park pass . You’ll be passing through some of the province’s most gorgeous agricultural country as you drive along the shores of Lake Erie from Niagara Falls to Pelee Island.

Along this Lake Erie coastal trail, you’ll pass some of southern Ontario’s most beautiful parks including Turkey Point, Long Point National Wildlife Area, Rondeau Park, Hillman Marsh, and, of course, the southernmost point in Canada at the tip of Point Pelee National Park .

It’s not just nature that you’ll experience on this most southern of the Ontario drives. You’ll also roll through some of the most picture-perfect towns in the province such as Port Stanley and Leamington.

Make sure you have an appetite as well because along this Ontario drive you’ll find loads of roadside food stands, produce markets, and plenty of small, locally run restaurants serving the region’s signature perch platters.

While you could continue your drive down to the border town of Windsor, Ontario to explore some of its incredible neighbourhoods such as the Ford City neighbourhood , I recommend topping it off with a ferry ride to Pelee Island, the province’s most southern wine region.

Distance: 414 kilometres

Driving Time: 6 hours 30 minutes

Recommended Time: 12 hours across two days

Hop Between Idyllic Islands On The Long Sault Parkway

The Long Sault Parkway, which skirts from island to island between the towns of Ingleside and Long Sault isn’t just one of the best drives in Ontario, it’s also one of the province’s most unique places .

This Instagram-worthy drive hops across 12 different islands in the St. Lawrence River. You can experience some of the provinces best camping on the Parks of the St. Lawrence sites. And treat yourself to some delicious small-town cooking in both Ingleside and Long Sault along the way. I highly recommend the pizza at Water View in Long Sault.

The Long Sault Parkway isn’t a long trip, but there are plenty of places to picnic along the way. It’s also a popular place for SCUBA divers exploring some of the shipwrecks in the St. Lawrence River.

Make sure you stay for some of the island chain’s legendary sunsets as well. And if you’re visiting during Canada Day, be prepared for one of the best small-town fireworks presentations in the province!

Distance: 11.6 kilometres

Driving Time: 22 minutes

Recommended Time: 2 hours

Now It’s Time to Experience These Unique Places in Ontario For Yourself!

There are countless unique places that can be found throughout Ontario. While they vary in landscape, people, and experiences, they all hold the opportunity for a truly fascinating getaway. No matter which region of Ontario you’re looking for, there’s always something awesome waiting for you.

Many of these businesses and restaurants are anxious for visitors after a tough year. So let’s support local and make the most of your Ontario glamping experience.

Do you have a favourite attraction or restaurant in Ontario? Head over to the  Ultimate Ontario Facebook Community  and join the conversation! You’ll find an amazing group of people passionate about Ontario and who love to share their local secrets.

Kevin Wagar is a founder and editor of Ultimate Ontario. He has been working in the travel media industry since 2015 when he founded his family travel website Wandering Wagars – Adventure Family Travel . Over the years Kevin has developed a deep love for his home province of Ontario and aims to showcase the incredible experiences and amazing small businesses found within it.

Monday 12th of July 2021

Like the articles, and maybe I’m missing it but you should see if you can key word search some of the subject lines. Or even if you were to # the town name people could search based on key words. I’m headed out to Torrance later on this month for a week, I knew about the dark sky reserve but was curious to know if you had any other areas of interest close by to Torrence you could recommend for some day trips, hikes or anything out that way. Travelling with my wife for her bday at the end of the month. Great Blog…signed up for the news letter

Kevin Wagar

Thursday 15th of July 2021

Hi Jeff, Thanks for the tips. We'll look into that. If you're heading out to Torrance Barrens, swing by nearby Hardy Lake Provincial Park. This non-operating park has some incredible trails to explore. And, of course, you're not too far from Gravenhurst which has some fantastic Georgian Bay boat tours.

Carol Puttock

Monday 14th of June 2021

Great suggestions! Beyond taking Hwy 60 through The Park, do you have any circular day trip route suggestions around the Haliburton/Muskoka area? We like to do convertible runs with a lunch stop with friends!

Tuesday 15th of June 2021

You could always do the Huntsville - Pembroke - North Bay - Huntsville Loop. It's about a 6.5-hour journey that takes you completely around Algonquin Park.

A shorter, but also very beautiful route would be to go Huntsville - Whitney - Bancroft - Huntsville, which is a 4.5-hour loop and has a very different feel to it.

Lyle Michener

Thursday 8th of April 2021

Outstanding and tantalizing possibilities for travelling throughout our beautiful province. With my wife who passed away in August of 2020, I have travelled many of these routes and plan to explore these again in the very near future. Your descriptions have offered new experiences to be enjoyed. Thank you so much for this wonderful service

Hello Lyle, our deepest condolences on the passing of your wife. Thank you so much for the kind words. We're thrilled to hear of your upcoming adventures. Safe and happy travels.

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7 Things I Wish Tourists Knew Before Visiting Ontario, From A Local

Experience the best of Ontario with these tips from someone who grew up here!

• Ontario offers diverse landscapes, from city life in Toronto to nature in Muskoka.
• Plan your trip wisely, as you can't see all of Ontario in one week due to its large size and traffic. Choose a few areas to truly explore.
• Experience the best of Ontario by mixing city visits with nature exploration. Rent a car to see cities like Toronto and natural wonders like Algonquin Park.

Ontario is an exciting travel destination in Canada that is worth visiting at least once. From the bustling city of Toronto to the tranquil forests of Muskoka, there is plenty to see and do here that will leave you with a fulfilling vacation and a definite love for Canadian landscapes.

However, there might also be some misconceptions about this province (and traveling to Canada in general), so as someone who was born and raised in Ontario, I’ll give you a few inside tips for how best to explore this expansive province. Did you know that approximately 40% of the country’s population lives in Ontario? Come visit to find out why!

7 Amazing One Day Road Trips Across The Canada/U.S. Border

7 there is more to ontario than toronto, from muskoka to niagara, there is a lot to explore.

Toronto is the capital of Ontario (but not the capital of Canada!) and is the largest city in the province and the country. Most international travelers arriving in Ontario will land in Toronto, making the city a great place to kick off the trip.

However, don’t get caught up in the hustle and bustle of city life for the entire trip if you have more than 48 hours in Toronto to spare. There are lots of experiences to discover, from camping in Northern Ontario to wine tasting in the Niagara Peninsula (which is especially great during the fall) .

• Know Before You Go: In one week, consider seeing Toronto and at least one other Ontario city or area for a more complete picture of the province.
• Tip From A Local: Some great pairings are Toronto and Niagara; Toronto, Kingston and Ottawa; Toronto, Hamilton and Niagara; Toronto, Simcoe County and Muskoka; or Toronto; or Owen Sound, South Hampton and Collingwood.

Ontario's Bluest Water: 10 Things To Do In Bruce Peninsula National Park

6 you can’t see it all in one week, pick and choose, take your time.

While it’s a great idea to see as much of Ontario as possible during your visit, you can’t see it all in one go. The province is huge ( second largest in Canada, after Quebec ) and traffic in the Greater Toronto Area (GTA) is not to be underestimated. It can take hours to drive from Toronto to Niagara in the summer due to traffic.

So plan your trip accordingly and don’t try to hop around too much in a short time. In one week, pick two areas to visit. If you have 10 days, three areas are possible and will allow you to get a better sense of this expansive province!

• Know Before You Go: It takes approximately 1.5 hours to drive from Toronto to Niagara or Toronto to Barrie.
• Tip From A Local: To avoid feeling rushed, consider picking two areas of Ontario maximum to cover in just one week.

5 It’s Got A Little Bit Of Everything

Get the full ontario experience by seeing cities and nature.

Speaking of getting a better sense of the province, the best Ontario travel itineraries will take you to a variety of destinations, not restricting you to city exploration.

If you’re a foodie, definitely spend a few days eating your way around Toronto and exploring historic areas like the Distillery District or the beauty of the Toronto Islands. But then, mix it up with some waterfall hiking in nearby Hamilton or a winery tour in Niagara-On-The-Lake, followed by a night in Niagara Falls. Plus, there are plenty of things to do in Niagara besides seeing the falls , so those who extend their visit can easily fill their itineraries.

For true nature lovers, rent a car and head north to Algonquin Provincial Park , Arrowhead Provincial Park, or south to Pinery Provincial Park, which are among the best provincial parks in Ontario for summer camping .

• Know Before You Go: The beauty of Ontario lies in its wonderful parks and charming small towns.
• Tip From A Local: Camping in Algonquin Park is a great option for getting out of the city, as is going to a cottage or resort in Muskoka.

4 The Best Time To Visit Ontario Is May To October

Winter isn’t the best time to visit.

It’s no secret that Canadian winters are long and often challenging emotionally. As someone who loves summer, I frequently ask myself what I’m doing in Ontario in the depth of January when days are dark, shorter, and freezing cold.

To get the best impression of Ontario, I highly recommend avoiding the winter months and planning your visit between May and October for pleasant weather and more activities, markets, festivals, and outdoor adventures to enjoy.

• Know Before You Go: The weather is most consistent and enjoyable from August to October
• Tip From A Local: Visiting in August or September is ideal for warm weather and fewer bugs. October is great for beautiful fall colors!

Discover Canadian Scenery At These 10 Epic Ontario Destinations

3 ontario is best enjoyed on a big budget, budget accordingly to indulge in the best the province has to offer.

Ontario is not an affordable travel destination (or an affordable place to live). When planning your trip here, be aware that the average cost of a meal ranges from $15 to $60 depending on whether you want to get fast food or sit down in a restaurant. It’s difficult to find a meal for less than $10 after tax and tip.

Accommodation will also run high for your budget, with the average double occupancy hotel room costing around $412 USD per night . Factor in tax and this can add up quickly.

• Know Before You Go: Ontario’s currency is the Canadian Dollar (CAD). Many businesses in Niagara Falls will also accept USD.
• Tip From A Local: Ontario businesses charge 13% HST on goods and services, so budget accordingly

10 Vineyards And Wineries To Tour While Visiting Ontario

2 tipping culture is out of control, no, you don’t need to tip on every single thing you purchase.

Tipping is customary in Ontario, but a word to wise: the tipping culture here is currently running rampant. I don’t mean you shouldn’t tip your servers and baristas a fair amount, because those tips are earned and well deserved.

I’m talking about the retail shops and event venues with credit card machines that automatically ask if you want to leave a tip before paying, often guilting customers into doing so when it is not warranted for that type of service.

Be aware of what you actually should tip on when visiting Ontario and don’t feel obligated to tip the high amounts that might appear as the default on a credit or debit machine.

• Know Before You Go: Tipping is expected in Ontario at coffee shops, restaurants, bars, on food delivery service and taxis/Uber
• Tip From A Local: Do not feel obligated to tip more than 15% to 18%

1 You Will Need To Rent A Car

Ontario is expansive; a car will get you where you want to go.

I mentioned above that Ontario is Canada’s second-largest province, so it should come as no surprise that much of the land area is not serviced by a reliable public transit system.

To get between cities and towns in Ontario, it is necessary to rent a vehicle.

• Know Before You Go: There is no train network connecting Toronto to Northern Ontario, but GO train service is available for trips within an hour or two of Toronto
• Tip From A Local: If you have a driver’s license in your home country, renting a car is likely to be the most enjoyable way to explore Ontario if you are planning to venture beyond the GTA.

Winners Optical

Location & Hours

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35 Harwood Avenue South

Ajax, ON L1S 2B8

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Brand name Designer Glasses and Sunglasses at up to 80% off …

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Amazing selections and great prices! They have a Groupon discount and they can do direct billing to insurance! Thats awesome!

New Bvlgari glasses !

Fendi Eyewear

Back in December 2015, it was my time to get new glasses and contact lenses. At that point, my nearsightedness had improved, although it has always been mild. I had purchased a Groupon to visit Winners Optical. The deal seemed too good to be true, but I bought it anyway. I believe that I visited this location after work and drove to Ajax. I was helped by an enthusiastic woman. Although the frames were the cheaper ones in a specific section, she was kind to allow me to pick from a greater selection. My last two frames were Ray-Ban ones. I got yet another one that are purple, which is my favourite colour. They don't have nosetabs, though. I typically like glasses with them. My other pair that I chose did and are blue. Essentially, I got two frames for the price of one, which was what my Groupon had stipulated. However, I got a better deal because the woman opened the frame selection up, simply because I was patient while she was working with two other customers well before I had arrived. Service was wonderful. My glasses were done in a few days. I went back there with a good friend to try them on. When it comes to parking, you can either park on the street or in the lot behind the store. I recommend the latter. The former makes it difficult to see oncoming traffic. I was backing into traffic, which wasn't fun. The latter is much safer. I am pleased with both pairs of glasses. I switch between wearing them and they are comfortable. I also got a couple pairs of sample contact lenses during my two visits. I need ones that are breathable. The ones that the woman had recommended are incredibly comfortable after wearing them for 12 hours, which is now my regular contact lens brand. Although this place is in Ajax, I don't mind the drive over there. The customer service and quality alone are worth the drive eastbound. (114)

I cannot say enough great things about them!!! I bought a groupon for $15 that promised $250 toward a pair of prescription glasses. I figured that if it was "too good to be true" (as I suspected), I was only out $15. I visited them after my own optometrist, with 2 prescriptions, and was able to get 2 great pairs of glasses for $100... and they did auto-billing to my insurance, so I wasn't out of pocket at all. Both pairs were ready for pick-up the next day! I was VERY impressed. So, when my son who had traumatic brain injury a year ago, was given a prescription for specialty "prism lens" glasses, I went back to winners to see if they could service us. They absolutely did! We found frames that look amazing on him, and got the glasses done at a fraction of the cost we were quoted at my optometrist. And the glasses have made a world of difference! He went from being able to read for a max 10 minutes with headaches and nausea to reading for 4 hours straight the night we brought home the glasses. Winners doesn't look like much from outside, but it offers a high-quality, boutique experience with outstanding, service-oriented staff, high-end designer selections at affordable prices. I HIGHLY recommend Winners Optical!

After posting a review of my experience, Winners Optical contacted me to fix their mistake and send me the correct prescription. Kudos to them. Cut to 4 months later, they decide to respond to my review with lies, accusations and... an attempt to shame me? Who does that? I have records of my sending them the correct initial prescription. Never in our subsequent e-mail exchange (when I finally got a response) did they suggest the fault was with me. Nice try! It's pretty easy to see through your lies (unlike those worthless glasses you sent me)

I order a pair of glasses as part of a "First Pair Free" promotion and Winners Optical sent me the wrong prescription. The prescription is not even close. After failing to respond to my emails for a few weeks, they refused to pay for return shipping to correct their mistake. I already paid 37.50 to have the glasses shipped to me, so instead of a "First Pair Free" I'm out almost 40 dollars and have nothing. Does that sound like a "winner" to you?

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Red Lobster website lists 87 locations 'temporarily closed' in 27 states: See full list

Red Lobster has abruptly closed dozens of restaurants across the country.

A look at the restaurant chain's website reveals 87 stores temporarily closed across 27 states , with some of them having their kitchen equipment up for auction on an online restaurant liquidator.

The liquidator, TAGeX Brands, announced Monday it is auctioning off equipment this week from 48 locations that have closed. The website says auctions are live and will end periodically on Thursday, and that each winner will receive the "entire contents of the Red Lobster location they bid on."

USA TODAY reached out to Red Lobster on Tuesday and did not get a response prior to publication.

Here's what we know about the closures, including where they're happening and why these restaurants are closing.

Red Lobster latest: Red Lobster lists 99 restaurants closed in 28 states: See locations closing in your state

'We're not going out of business': As Red Lobster locations close, chain begins outreach

Closed Red Lobster locations

Each of these restaurants are currently listed as temporarily closed on the website:

• Rohnert Park
• Wheat Ridge
• Altamonte Springs
• Daytona Beach Shores
• Gainesville
• Jacksonville (Commerce Center Drive)  
• Jacksonville (Baymeadows Road)  
• Jacksonville (City Station Drive)
• Orlando (E. Colonial Dr.)
• Orlando (W. Colonial Dr.)
• Orlando (Golden Sky Lane) 
• Tampa (East Busch Blvd.)
• Tampa (Palm Pointe Dr.)
• Bloomingdale
• Indianapolis (N. Shadeland Ave.)
• Kansas City
• Bossier City
• Gaithersburg
• Silver Spring

Mississippi

• Jefferson City
• Bridgewater
• East Brunswick
• Lawrenceville
• Poughkeepsie
• Stony Brook
• Williamsville

North Carolina

• Rocky Mount

North Dakota

• Grand Forks
• Oklahoma City

Pennsylvania

South carolina.

• Myrtle Beach
• Dallas (E. Technology Blvd.)
• Dallas (Vantage Point Dr.)
• Lake Jackson
• Colonial Heights
• Newport News
• Williamsburg

Red Lobster considered filing for bankruptcy in April

The seafood chain considered filing for Chapter 11 bankruptcy last month in an effort to restructure its debt,  according to Bloomberg .

The company had been getting advice from law firm King & Spalding as it looked to shed some long-term contracts and renegotiate leases, Bloomberg reported, noting that Red Lobster's cash flows had been weighed down by leases and labor costs, among other issues.

Red Lobster suffered big losses with 'Ultimate Endless Shrimp' promotion

In 2023, the seafood chain's " Ultimate Endless Shrimp " deal became more popular than expected, inadvertently becoming a key factor in a $11 million loss in the third quarter.

The limited-time promotional deal, in which guests picked two types of shrimp to enjoy nonstop for $20, landed a permanent spot on Red Lobster menus in June. Red Lobster's parent company, Thai Union Group, said in November 2023 that the chain was headed toward a $20 million loss for 2023. Now the endless shrimp deal costs $25.

Thai Union Group CFO Ludovic Regis Henri Garnier said in an earnings report call that the company was aware the initial price for the endless-shrimp deal was cheap. The offer was intended to draw customers into restaurants, but orders exceeded expectations, he said.

"We wanted to boost our traffic, and it didn't work," Garnier told investors in November 2023, according to  Restaurant Business Magazine . "We want to keep it on the menu. And of course we need to be much more careful regarding what are the entry points and what is the price point we are offering for this promotion."

Chris Sims is a digital content producer at Midwest Connect Gannett. Follow him on Twitter:  @ChrisFSims .

Gabe Hauari is a national trending news reporter at USA TODAY. You can follow him on X  @GabeHauari  or email him at [email protected].