nice places to travel in ontario

19 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Ontario

Written by Lana Law Updated Aug 16, 2024 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Author Lana Law grew up in Northwestern Ontario and 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 locals and visitors from out of province 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 Ontario's ski hills , skating rinks, snowmobiling, and winter festivals, most turn their attention indoors to hockey games, shopping, dining, Broadway shows, and other cultural attractions.

Any time of year is a good time to visit some of Canada's top museums and galleries found in Ottawa and Toronto.

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.

Niagara Falls

Toronto's cn tower, parliament hill in ottawa, ontario's provincial and national parks, royal ontario museum (rom), canada's wonderland, national gallery of canada, toronto international film festival (tiff), art gallery of ontario, thousand islands, fishing in northern ontario, trent-severn waterway national historic site of canada, muskoka and cottage country, fort william historical park, lake of the woods, blue mountain resort, stratford festival, rideau canal national historic site, sainte-marie among the hurons, map of tourist attractions in ontario.

Whether you've lived in Ontario all your life or are a first-time visitor to Canada, Niagara Falls is a must-see attraction on everyone's list. 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 . Spending a night is also worthwhile to see the falls lit in changing colors after dark.

Plan to spend at least half a day here to see the falls. You can get a spectacular view from the walkway along the edge of the gorge, which is free. You can also plan to see it from below on a boat tour with Niagara City Cruises or from a viewing platform at Journey Behind the Falls .

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 are the new Ripley's Aquarium and Rogers Centre , two of Toronto's top attractions .

For views of the tower and the city skyline hop on a ferry to Toronto Islands, where you can look back on the city from across the water.

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.

• Top-Rated Ontario Parks: Exploring Ontario's Great Outdoors
• Best Places for Camping in Ontario

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 shops of Bloor Avenue.

Plan your visit to save money. You can purchase tickets online to reserve a time for your visit, and take advantage of the ROM's Plan Ahead Pricing .

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. In 2023 the park opened two new rides: Tundra Twister and Snoopy's Racing Railway .

In winter, you can enjoy Winterfest at Canada's Wonderland from mid-November to early January. The park is decked out in holiday lights and you can go skating, see holiday shows, and even hop on some of the rides.

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.

As a general rule, the further you are from a major center, the better the fishing. A couple of hours north of Toronto, in places like the French River, Temagami, or the Lake Temiskaming region you can find fishing lodges and decent fishing.

For more action head farther north and west to Lake of the Woods around Kenora, Sioux Narrows, and Nestor Falls . You can also arrange fly-in fishing to remote outpost camps. Another popular northern town for fishing is Sioux Lookout , where you can do a resort stay or rent a houseboat to enjoy some great walleye fishing.

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. Or, if you'd rather do the driving and enjoy a high standard of luxury, consider renting a houseboat from Le Boat .

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 . One of the big attractions in Gravenhurst is a ride on a historical steamship for a short cruise and tour of the lake.

Another popular destination in the Muskoka District is Huntsville, an adorable town with waterside restaurants, cute shops, randomly placed Muskoka chairs for relaxing in the sunshine, and plenty of accommodation options. Huntsville is also the gateway to Algonquin Provincial Park.

Also, check out the town of Rosseau set on Lake Rosseau where you'll find the luxury JW Marriott The Rosseau Muskoka Resort & Spa .

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 look 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.

Read More: Top-Rated Things to Do in Thunder Bay

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 , but smaller summer resort towns like Sioux Narrows or Nestor Falls are also good options. These are places 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.

But Blue Mountain is much more than just a winter destination. In summer, it's equally busy and offers up a full list of things to do that range from rock climbing and ziplining to mountain biking and hiking. You can also enjoy outdoor dining or just stretch out on a Muskoka Chair overlooking the Mill Pond. This is still a major family destination in summer.

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. In most seasons, at least 12 productions are performed at the Stratford Festival .

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.

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.

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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Must Do Canada

The Best Things to Do in Canada

The ULTIMATE Guide to the Best Things to Do in Ontario

June 9, 2020 By Matthew G. Bailey

Last updated: May 15th, 2022

Ontario is one of the biggest and most populated provinces in Canada and is home to some amazing cities, attractions, and nature. Ranging from the massive cosmopolitan city of Toronto to the scenic landscapes of Algonquin Provincial Park, there are so many things to do in Ontario. From kayaking next to loons to experiencing Canada Day on Parliament Hill, Ontario is definitely one of the most popular provinces to visit in Canada.

Some of the wonderful attractions in Ontario included taking a helicopter tour over Niagara Falls , visiting world-class museums in Toronto, enjoying the thrill of some of the world’s best roller coasters at Canada’s Wonderland, canoeing some of Canada’s best lakes and rivers, and visiting some of Canada’s top wineries, just to name a few.

Whether you’re visiting in the summer or in the winter, looking to do one of the many Ontario road trips , or looking for the best activities and attractions for your next trip to Ontario, we’ve got you covered in this extensive guide to the best things to do in Ontario.

Table of Contents

Travel Video: What To Do in Ontario

Back in 2017, we embarked on a 150-day road trip to celebrate Canada’s 150th birthday. Since Ontario is home to the nation’s capital, we made sure we were in Ottawa for July 1st to enjoy one of the biggest Canada Day celebrations Canada has ever had. But that’s not all. We also visited many of the best museums in the country in Ottawa and in Toronto, went into an underground bunker that was built during the Cold War, enjoyed some of the best views of Niagara Falls thanks to a short cruise and helicopter ride, went canoeing in Algonquin Provincial Park, and sampled some of Canada’s best wine. We’ve since been back many times to continue going deeper and deeper into the best things to do in Ontario, but that trip will forever be in our hearts. Watch the video above to see it all in action!

Things to Do in Ontario: Ottawa

Ottawa is a beautiful and vibrant city, which is also home to Canada’s federal government. Here you’ll find incredible museums, the Rideau Canal, Parliament Hill, and so much more. You can also walk across the bridge and visit Quebec!

Canadian Parliament Buildings

Without a doubt, the icon of Ottawa is Canada’s parliament buildings. It’s just one of those sights you simply shouldn’t miss when visiting Canada’s capital city. From the Clock Tower to the gothic architecture, the buildings are stunning to admire from the lawns in front of the building. In addition, if you want to go inside, you can take one of the free tours and learn about Canada’s political system.

Rideau Canal

Located right next to the parliament buildings, the Rideau Canal is well worth a visit. In fact, it’s hard to miss. This UNESCO World Heritage Site was actually built to protect against war with the USA but has now become a very popular spot with boaters, connecting the city all the way to Lake Ontario. While you’re there, stop into the Bytown museum as well, which we’ll talk more about below.

Bytown Museum

This great little museum is a great place to visit if you want to learn about Ottawa’s history as well as the Rideau Canal, which is located right outside the front doors! There are a lot of cool artifacts and we learned so much about Ottawa and Canada’s confederation.

Canadian Museum of History

This massive, fascinating museum explores Canada’s 20,000 years of human history while offering some of the best views of Parliament Hill from across the river. Although it’s actually located in Gatineau, Quebec, it’s walking distance from Ottawa.

I really loved the strong emphasis on Canada’s first peoples and learning about the aboriginal culture both before and after the Europeans arrived. It was also cool to learn about some of the most important moments from Canada’s last 150 years.

Diefenbunker Canada’s Cold War Museum

How often do you get to go into a massive 100,000-square-foot underground bunker built for a nuclear war? Well, a visit to the Cold War Museum allows you to do just that! Thankfully, this place was never used for its intended purpose and it’s now the perfect location for the world’s largest escape room, which we got to try out after our tour of the facility.

We loved running around an actual military bunker as if we were action heroes, solving clues with limited time. Very cool experience!

Nordik Spa-Nature

Although this spa is located in Chelsea, Quebec, it’s only 20-minutes from Ottawa by car. As of now, it’s North America’s largest spa and it truly is an incredible place to spend the day. Think of it as a relaxing adult playground.

They have multiple steam rooms, a variety of hot and cold pools, a salt-water floating pool, fire pits, saunas, and so much more. We always spend a good 8 hours or more when we visit, taking the time to also indulge in a massage as well as some food and drink.

For more, check out our guide to the best things to do in Ottawa !

Fun Things to Do in Ontario: Niagara Falls

As one of the world’s most popular natural attractions, Niagara Falls is a beauty to behold and one of the tourist attractions in Ontario. There are so many ways to experience the falls and we tried every possible way there is, except go over them in a barrel, which is not recommended.

Besides seeing the falls, there are lots of other things to do in the area, including wine-tasting and food tours in Niagara-on-the-Lake.

Niagara Helicopters

Helicopter rides are always awesome and you can probably imagine how cool it is to take a helicopter over one of the world’s biggest waterfalls. We got a birds-eye perspective of the falls and the huge cloud of mist rising into the air. It really looked like a hole in the Earth. It’s definitely a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to see a former world wonder from the sky.

Journey Behind the Falls

This may just be my favourite way to see the falls. Not only do you get to go right beside the falls but you can also take your time to enjoy the view for as long as you want. It’s really incredible to admire the falls from so close and if you’d like, you can also go down a tunnel and be just a few feet behind the falls, which is a good way to see just how powerful they really are.

Hornblower Niagara Cruises

There’s a reason why taking a cruise into the mist has long been a favourite activity for visitors to Niagara Falls. The boat gets you super close to the bottom, allowing you to get soaked from the mist and experience the force while looking up as the water flows over the edge.

White Water Walk

Some people admiring the falls forget about the raging river it creates after the water makes its plunge. This walking path gets you right next to the river, allowing you to walk next to class-6 rapids and a raging river flowing along at around 40 km/h. The water is too dangerous for boats but is perfect to admire from the sidelines.

Whirlpool Aero Car

Another popular attraction in the area is the whirlpool, which is located downstream from Niagara Falls. Here you can take an antique cable car over the whirlpool to get beautiful views of the surrounding area.

Niagara Culinary Tours

If you’re looking to sample wines and food, head to Niagara-on-the-Lake, a beautiful little town right on the edge of Lake Ontario and the U.S. Border. If you’re looking to sample a variety of foods while learning about the history, take a food tour with Niagara Culinary Tours. We walked all over town with our guide, Chris, learning about the area’s history while trying a variety of food, including Thai soup, beer and cheese pairings, and some of the town’s famous desserts. It was awesome!

Butterfly Conservatory

Located just 9 kilometres (5.6 miles) north of Niagara Falls, this 99-acre Butterfly Conservatory is home to a 200-seat theatre, gift shop, and climate-controlled greenhouse. Most importantly, it’s home to over 2,000 tropical butterflies from over 60 different species.

The conservatory glass dome is a whopping 11,000 square feet and is home to 180-metres worth of paths. Whether you’re wanting to have a butterfly land on you or just admire them from a distance, this is the place to go.

Skylon Tower

If you’re looking for a view somewhat similar to a helicopter, you might want to head up to the top of the Skylon Tower to see Niagara Falls from 520-feet above street level. The tower also has two restaurants at the top, including the Revolving Dining Room and the upper Summit Suite Buffet for those looking to have a bite to eat with an incredible view!

Niagara SkyWheel

Where else can you take a ride on a Ferris wheel while enjoying views of one of the world’s natural wonders? This 175-foot (53.3 metres) tall Ferris wheel offers 42 fully enclosed passenger cars that each carry nine people for a 12-15 minute ride with views of Niagara River, Horseshoe Falls, and American Falls. In the winter, the cars are even heated whereas, in the summer, they are air-conditioned.

For a more exhaustive list of things to do in the area, check out our guide to the best things to do in Niagara Falls as well as our guide to the Best Views of Niagara Falls

Toronto, Ontario, Things to Do

Canada’s biggest city is home to a vast amount of incredible museums, attractions, restaurants, and more. There’s also a beautiful harbour, Toronto Island, and a multi-cultural scene unlike anywhere else in the country. We had only four days in the city and made sure to pack in as many things as we could.

The CN Tower dominates the Toronto skyline and is a great place to get a view of the entire city as well as Lake Ontario and Toronto Island. It might not be the tallest building in the world anymore but it’s still an architectural marvel and a great place to go for sunset.

Royal Ontario Museum

This is the biggest museum in Canada and one of the biggest in North America. Home to more than six million items and 40 galleries, you could explore this place for days.

We happened to be there during a special exhibit called “Out of the Depths, the Blue Whale Story”. This was incredibly interesting and beautiful and gave us insight into the world’s biggest mammal. We saw the real skeleton and an actual heart, which is almost as big as a smart car! If you’re interested in nature or history or art or almost anything else, this is the place to go.

Art Gallery of Ontario

This massive art museum consists of 480,000 square feet of space, housing around 95,000 works spanning the first century to the present day. It’s one of the largest galleries in North America, including significant collections of Canadian art, Renaissance art, European art, African art, and a vast modern and contemporary collection.

You’ll also find photography, sculptures, and other kinds of art such as miniatures, frames, books, film and video art, installations, architecture, and more. The Art Gallery of Ontario is the second most visited museum after Toronto’s ROM and is recommended for anyone interested in, well, art!

Hockey Hall of Fame

For those interested in hockey or insight into the sport that Canada is most known for, head on down to the Hockey Hall of Fame . The beautiful building houses exhibits featuring players, teams, NHL records, memorabilia, and even trophies, including a replica of the Stanley Cup. There are even some interactive games where you can play games and test your hockey skills.

Tasty Tours Food Tour

The food tour with a sweet twist. If you’re looking to try some interesting food while getting a taste for the culture, this is a great tour to take. I loved meeting the shop owners and learning their stories. In fact, that’s what makes this tour special.

I enjoyed hearing about how the businesses got started and we actually ended up interviewing a lot of the people we met through this tour. Highly recommended!

Bruce Bell Historical Walking Tour

I really think historical walking tours are the best thing to do when you first arrive in a new city. They really help bring the city to life and that’s what happened when we took a tour with Bruce Bell, a man well known for his incredible St. Lawrence Market tours. This is where Toronto got its start and it was so interesting to learn about the market and the surrounding area.

uFly Flight Simulator

I’ve been wanting to try a flight simulator for quite some time and finally got the chance in Mississauga! Home to North America’s only 180-degree full HD screen to the fully motorized throttle quadrant of the 777-200LR in the country, this is one of the best public flight simulators in the world.

This is a really cool way to experience life as a pilot without actually leaving the ground. It’s incredibly realistic and you get a real pilot next to you to help you take off, fly, and land while answering any questions you might have. This simulator is located in Mississauga and is a 40-minute drive from downtown Toronto.

Steam Whistle Brewery

As one of the most photographed places in Toronto, the Steam Whistle Brewery is a really cool place to visit in downtown Toronto. Take a tour, sample the beer, and learn about the history behind this really cool iconic Canadian-owned beer company. In fact, they’re so cool that they even hosted our Road to 150 Toronto meetup! Thanks, Steam Whistle!

It’s hard to believe that a big city like Toronto is home to one of Canada’s very few castles. While it’s not really a “real castle”, it is a Gothic Revival style mansion that was built back in 1911 by financier Sir Henry Pellatt.

Not only is it quite close to downtown Toronto but it also offers a beautiful view of the city, including the CN Tower. If you decide to take the popular Hop-on-Hop-off bus, this attraction is one of the stops.

Toronto Islands and a Toronto Harbour Cruise

The best way to see Toronto’s stunning skyline is to go for a cruise along the harbour . This is also a great way to see the Toronto Islands, a chain of small islands in Lake Ontario that provides summer fun for locals and tourists alike.

The islands host a variety of hiking trails, picnic areas, beaches, yacht clubs, and even an airport. In addition, if you decide to take the popular Hop-on-Hop-off bus , this attraction is included in the price.

Canada’s Wonderland

Located just outside Toronto in a suburb called Vaughan, you’ll find the largest amusement park in Canada! In fact, it’s one of the best amusement parks in the world, with more than 330-acres of excitement, including 70 attractions, 17 of which are roller coasters.

There’s also a 20-acre water park and a month-long “Canada Day” celebration called Celebration Canada. For those seeking thrills, our favourite rides are Leviathan, Behemoth, and the new Yukon Striker, which is the world’s tallest, fastest, and longest dive coaster.

For more, check out our ultimate guide to the best things to do in Toronto !

Things to Do in Sudbury, Ontario

If you’re planning to drive west towards Manitoba or explore the Lake Superior region, you might end up in Sudbury. Here are some of the wonderful things you can do.

Visit the Big Nickel

If you love huge roadside attractions, this is one you don’t want to miss out on. This nine-metre high nickel is the city’s most famous landmark. And is a replica of a 1952 Canadian nickel, which can be found on the grounds of the Dynamic Earth science museum, which we talk about below.

Explore Dynamic Earth

After looking up at the giant nickel, head in and explore Dynamic Earth, an interactive science museum focusing on the city’s mining history. This is the city’s top attraction and is operated by Science North, another one of the top things to do in Sudbury . It’s an interactive science museum established in 2003 that focuses on the city’s mining history. Dynamic Earth has a wide variety of displays and exhibits where the kids can learn how to mine, climb a mineral wall, look at diamonds, and identify different minerals. There are gold panning experiences and displays of fossils and meteorites. They can also go on an underground tour of the mines that takes them deep into the earth and displays the work done by the miners over the years, as well as the technological changes that have taken place. There is also a giant sandpit complete with manually operated diggers, and huge mining machinery they can climb around.

Lake Laurentian Conservation Area

This 97-hectare Lake Laurentian Conservation Area stretches from Lake Ramsey to the Southeast Bypass, creating an excellent conservation area filled with lakes, trails, and wildlife.

It’s a lovely place to get into nature and consists of many hiking trails or even cross-country skiing trails in the winter. It’s also great for bird-watching. In addition, we totally recommend visiting the A.Y. Jackson Lookout to see the impressive 55-metre cascading Hall Falls.

Go Snowmobiling

It’s not tough finding fun things to do in Ontario, Canada. Take this wonderland adventure for example. If you happen to be in Sudbury during the winter, the city has one of the largest groomed snowmobile trails in the world, with over 1,200 kilometres of trails connecting several communities.

These are maintained trails, complete with parking, washrooms and designated rest areas. You can even stay in lodges along the way!

Thrilling Stuff to Do in Ontario: Kingston

Another popular city is Kingston, which is just 2.5 hours east of Toronto by car and just 2 hours south of Ottawa. It’s located right on Lake Ontario and has a beautiful historic waterfront core. You can also arrive via the ViaRail train or the regional airport.

Take a Kingston Trolley Tour

One of the most popular things to do in Kingston is to take a tour on the red Trolleys, a “hop-on-hop-off” style tour that takes you to all the city highlights. The trolleys have live commentary from the driver and/or audio guide, which also makes it a great way to learn about the historical points of the city.

Take a 1000 Island Boat Cruise

Another awesome thing to do around Kingston is to visit the 1000 Islands via the 1000 Island Boat Cruise . This is one of Canada’s national parks and is both a historic waterway and a beautiful place. There are many different boat tours, some of which are short and some of which are long. You can even take a sunset dinner cruise if you want to enjoy the sunset and a delicious meal.

Go Shopping on Princess Street

Since many people love to do some shopping when they travel, the place to do so in Kingston is Princess Street, which cuts right through downtown and proceeds right to the waterfront. There are many shops here, including local food and artisan crafts and clothing, and it’s also a beautiful area to just walk around and enjoy.

Visit Historic Fort Henry

If you’re up for some military history, you’ll want to visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Fort Henry. This fort is actually part of a larger historical site known as the Kingston Fortifications National Historic Site.

This site includes the old fortifications around Kingston Harbour and the entrance to the Rideau Canal. It also includes the historic Shoal Tower (located in the waterfront downtown), the Murney Tower, and the tower/walls of Fort Frederick.

Other Cool Places to Visit in Ontario

While so many tourists go to the main areas of Toronto, Ottawa, and Niagara Falls, there is SO MUCH MORE for those wanting to get deeper into the province and see some of its more natural beauty. Here are some Ontario highlights and ideas for your next road trip around the province.

Algonquin Provincial Park

Algonquin Provincial Park is a beautiful slice of nature just a couple of hours north of Toronto. It’s a great place to go canoeing, kayaking, fishing, or hiking. In the fall, it’s one of the most spectacular places in Canada to witness the changing fall colours and it’s one of the most popular places to go camping in Ontario .

During our brief two nights in the park, we stayed at Arowhon Pines, a luxurious rustic lodge overlooking a lake with gourmet food served three times per day. We spent our days canoeing next to loons, paddle boarding around the lake, and jumping off the dock and into the water before watching the sunset and sitting next to the fire inside our lodge.

Getting to Ontario Canada

There are many ways to get to Ontario, including cars, buses, trains, and planes. Some people even arrive by boat from other parts of Canada.

Getting to Ontario by Plane

Ontario is home to some of Canada’s biggest cities and a variety of airports. The most popular options for arrival are the four international airports in Toronto, Ottawa, London, and Thunder Bay. Most tourists will likely arrive in either Toronto or Ottawa. There are also a number of other airports as well.

• Toronto Pearson International Airport: Toronto’s airport is one of the busiest airports in the world and is definitely the busiest in Canada. More than 180 destinations around the world are served from this airport via 65+ airlines. Being in Toronto, Toronto Pearson is connected to major highways, public transportation systems, rental car companies, express trains, taxis, and more. It’s also a 30-minute drive from the US border.
• Ottawa International Airport: Serving more than 4.5 million passengers each year, Ottawa is also one of Canada’s busiest airports. The airport is home to 11 airlines and is only 20-minutes to Canada’s capital city and only a two-hour drive from Montreal, Quebec.
• London International Airport: London’s international airport is located near the city of London, Ontario. It’s also one of Canada’s busiest airports and serves five different airlines with direct flights to 14 destinations.
• Thunder Bay International Airport: Ontario’s Thunder Bay airport is on the other side of Lake Superior, almost a 15-hour drive from Toronto. It serves around 700,000 passengers annually.

Getting to Ontario by Car

If you’re driving to Ontario, the province is bordered by Manitoba to the west, Quebec to the east, and the US to the south. It’s a massive province, taking close to 24-hours of driving to cross from west to east. The busiest area is the Toronto-Niagara-Ottawa corridor, which is at the far southeastern edge of the province. The rest of the province (to the north and to the west) is largely made up of forests, lakes, and smaller communities.

The Trans-Canada Highway crosses through the province, providing an easy way to navigate from east to west (and vice versa). It’s a great place for a Canada road trip, whether you decide to explore only Ontario attractions or other nearby provinces as well.

If you need to rent a car, there are many options, including Avis, Budget, Discount, Dollar, Hertz, National and Thrifty.

There’s also a variety of taxis, as well as Uber and Lyft.

Getting to and Around Ontario by Bus

Just like cars, Ontario is easily visited by bus. There are a variety of bus lines offering service throughout the province including:

• Greyhound: This bus company services all regions of the province.
• Ontario Northland: This bus company services Toronto, Central Ontario and Northern Ontario.
• Gray Line: This bus company provides sightseeing tours in Niagara Falls, Toronto, and Ottawa.
• Coach Canada: This bus company services Windsor to Montreal along the 401 corridors.
• Parkbus: This bus company services between Toronto and Ottawa and various provincial and national parks.
• GO Transit: This is the regional public transit service for the Greater Toronto and Hamilton Area.

Getting to and Around Ontario by Train

Ontario is home to the VIA Rail lines, which offer services to and from the province, but there are also regional train lines as well.

• VIA Rail Canada: This company offers passenger service in the Greater Toronto Area, Ottawa, Niagara Falls, Southwestern Ontario and Northern Ontario, with express service available between larger communities on most routes. You can also go to other provinces across Canada.
• Ontario Northland: This company’s Polar Bear Express train provides service from Cochrane to Moosonee.
• Agawa Canyon Train Tour: Algoma Central Rail offers popular train excursions through the spectacular scenery of Algoma Country.
• Union Pearson Express: This service is an innovative air-rail link connecting Toronto Pearson International Airport and Union Station in downtown Toronto. For groups of 50 or more please complete the on-line form for special rates.

Getting to and Around Ontario by Boat

Ontario is also accessible by boat, although only from within Canada. There are a couple of ferry services you can make use of, including:

• Chi Cheemaun: This ferry runs between Tobermory and South Baymouth on Manitoulin Island.
• Glenora: This ferry connects Glenora and Adolphustown in Eastern Ontario.
• Pelee Island Ferry: This ferry runs between Leamington or Kingsville and Pelee Island in Southern Ontario.
• Toronto Islands: This ferry departs from the downtown Toronto docks and services the Toronto Islands.
• Wolfe Island: This ferry connects Kingston and Wolfe Island in Eastern Ontario.

Best Time to Visit Ontario

Ontario can be hot and humid in the summer and freezing cold in during the winter in Canada . Timing your visit will likely depend on what you’re interested in doing and what you’re comfortable with.

If you’d like to experience snow and/or partake in winter festivals or winter activities in Ontario, then you’ll want to come sometime between December and March. Other advantages to this time include fewer visitors and cheaper hotel prices.

If you’d rather experience hot temperatures and a wider array of Ontario activities, you may want to visit during Canada’s warmer months from May until September. The hottest months are July and August, which also happen to be the busiest months. Spring can also be nice and during the fall season around October, Ontario is home to some of the best fall colours in Canada .

Either way, travel in Ontario can be done all year-round, especially in cities like Ottawa and Toronto. In the summer, temperatures can reach as high as 40 degrees Celcius whereas the winter can bring temperatures of -20 degrees Celsius or even colder if you travel to the northern part of the province. However, as the saying goes, there’s no such thing as bad weather, only bad clothes.

Fun Facts About Canada Ontario

• Toronto is now known as the most multicultural city on Earth.
• St. Lawrence Market in downtown Toronto is known as the best food market in the world.
• One of the main reasons Ottawa was chosen as Canada’s capital is due to its proximity to both English and French Canada.
• Toronto is home to Canada’s only NBA and MLB sports teams.
• With more than 250,000 lakes, Ontario is estimated to have 20% of the world’s freshwater stores.
• Horseshoe Falls (part of Niagara Falls) is the most powerful waterfall in North America by volume and is often cited as one of the world’s natural wonders.

Want more? Check out our guide to the best Ontario facts .

Final Thoughts on What to Do in Ontario, Canada

As you can see in the video, we had a great time in Ontario. There are so many things to do in this massive province, including big-city entertainment and boundless nature. From massive waterfalls and beautiful lakes to vibrant multicultural cities and international cuisine, Ontario is a really cool province to explore.

For more cool things to do in Ontario and beyond, check out our other articles below:

• Ottawa in the Winter
• Things to Do in Quebec
• Things to Do in Montreal
• Things to Do in Manitoba
• Interesting Toronto Facts

Bonus Fun Fact: There’s actually an Ontario historic site located outside of Canada! It’s called Wolford Chapel and it’s located in Devon, England.

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About Matthew G. Bailey

Matthew G. Bailey is the founder and editor-in-chief of Must Do Canada. Growing up in Alberta to a mother from Quebec and a father from Newfoundland, Matt spent his childhood playing hockey under the Northern Lights and hanging out in the forest before moving to Calgary and travelling to more than 250 cities spanning 42 countries and 6 continents. He loves travel, learning new things, playing sports, writing, making videos, photography, and scuba diving. You can also find him at LiveLimitless.net .

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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 Molière, 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 Métis - 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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The Ultimate Spring Weekend in Ottawa

29 Amazing Weekend Getaways in Ontario, Canada

Written By: The Planet D

Updated On: June 11, 2024

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 there are many places to choose from. And we’ve rounded them up all in one place for you.

Table of Contents

Best Weekend Getaways in Ontario

We have split our Ontario weekend getaways into categories, including romantic getaways, urban areas, resorts, outdoors, and family trips So let’s start with the top weekend getaways in Ontario to enjoy one of these lovely city breaks.

Best Weekend Getaway Spots – 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, this list offers a fantastic range to suit everyone’s interests.

Ottawa is our absolute favorite city in Ontario. It has an abundance of museums, historical sites, landmarks, nature, and an exciting food scene. It is home to countless things to do, including outdoor adventures on the Ottawa River, the Canadian National Gallery, the Canadian War Museum, and Parliament Hill making it the perfect place for a long weekend.

Visitors can fly straight into Ottawa from New York or Toronto or drive there from major cities like Montreal (which is a two-hour drive from Ottawa). The capital of Canada is a perfect year-round getaway.

Plan your trip to Ottawa

• Ottawa Attractions – 20 Winter Activities to Embrace the Snow
• 33 Things to Do in Ottawa – A Complete Guide to the City
• Amazing Places to Visit on the Rideau Canal
• The Ultimate Guide To The Canadian Tulip Festival in Ottawa
• Best accommodation option in Ottawa – Fairmont Chateau Laurier  

2. Niagara Falls

Niagara Falls is Canada’s most famous attraction and is a must visit in Ontario, featuring the largest waterfall in the world by volume. The town has everything you need for the perfect long weekend getaway in Ontario, from tourist attractions, restaurants, spas, and luxury hotels.

The whole family will love all the falls attractions, indoor waterparks such as Great Wolf Lodge where kids can have their own room within family room, countless restaurants and entertainment, plus access to many wineries nearby.

Getting there: It is is an hour’s drive from Hamilton and an hour and a half from Toronto. How to Get From Toronto to Niagara Falls – Bus, Train, Transit, And Car

Plan your trip to The Falls

• 25 Best Things to Do in Niagara Falls, Canada
• The Perfect 48 Hours in Niagara Falls, Canada
• 12 Fun Things to Do in Niagara Falls at Night
• How to Get From Toronto to Niagara Falls – Bus, Train, Transit, And Car
• The Clifton Hill Fun Pass in Niagara Falls: Is it Worth it?
• 15 Best Views of Niagara Falls
• Where to Stay in Niagara Falls – Best Areas
• Best accommodation option – Niagara Falls Marriott Fallsview Hotel & Spa

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 waterfront. If you want one of Ontario’s most iconic weekend getaways, Toronto is easily one of the top three.

Eat at Michelin Star restaurants, admire a mix of historic buildings and skyscrapers, samples local craft beer and cocktails at bars across the city or even spend time at the beach. There are also endless museums, outdoor activities and interactive adventures. The best way to see a lot of Toronto in a short time is on a day tour. Browse tours here.

Getting There: As the capital of Ontario it is a breeze to access with direct flights from around the world.

Best accommodation option in Toronto – The Ritz Carlton is our favorite in the city centre close to the Fairmont Royal York, Roy Thompson Hall and the Princess of Wales Theatre, The CN Tower, the Entertainment District, and the Harbourfront.

Plan your trip to Toronto

• The Perfect One Day in Toronto Itinerary
• 50 Best Things to Do in Toronto, Canada
• Where to Stay in Toronto – A Guide to the Best Neighborhoods
• Best Christmas Events in Toronto: A Festive Guide
• Toronto Tours by Locals – An InsiderS Guide To The City

4. Kingston

The first capital of Canada is an amazing weekend trip. Located on Lake Ontario, The Rideau Canal, and the St. Lawrence River, Kingston is filled with historic charm, fine dining, and nightlife.

Make sure to book a tour of Kingston Penitentiary, Agnes Etherington Art Centre, Bellevue House National Historic Site, and Murney Tower National Historic Site of Canada. It is a stunning place to just explore on foot from the historic buildings of Queens University to the beautiful waterfront. You can also book Kingston Day Tours here.

Getting There: Kingston is located just a three-hour drive from Toronto or two hours and twenty minutes by train.

Best accommodation option in Kingston –  Delta Hotels by Marriott Kingston Waterfront  is beautiful, though. The three-star hotel features an indoor rooftop pool and an onsite restaurant.

Plan your trip to Kingston

• The Ultimate Kingston Ontario Weekend Itinerary
• Things to do in Kingston – Don’t Miss This Ontario Gem

5. Stratford

Known for its renowned Stratford Festival, visitors can enjoy world-class theatre productions from Shakespearean classics to contemporary plays.

The picturesque downtown area is perfect for leisurely strolls, with its boutique shops, cafes, and restaurants offering local delicacies. Don’t miss the Shakespearean Gardens and a stroll along the Avon River, where you can spot swans and enjoy the serene atmosphere.

Getting There: Stratford is easily accessible from major cities like Toronto and London, either by car or via a scenic train ride on VIA Rail.

Best Place to Stay:

Tiny downtown Paris was named the “Prettiest little town in Canada,” and it is certainly one of the best small towns to visit for a fun Ontario getaway. We may be slightly biased because Paris is our home town and we love our lifestyle with hiking and biking trails, great dining, spas, and scenery surrounding us. Downtown Paris has half a dozen excellent restaurants, local shops, and even a microbrewery, making for an ideal place for a road trip.

Apart from shopping and enjoying cafes of downtown Paris, you can try some activities like river tubing or kayaking on the Grand River, visiting Alexander Graham Bells House or cycling the Hubs of Ontario Trails. Read our complete guide: 27 Things to do in Paris Ontario – A Local’s Guide

Accommodation in Paris – The best accommodation in Paris is the  Arlington Hotel located smack dab in the middle of downtown Paris. The Arlington Hotel hotel was established in 1851 and offers historical, chic accommodation.

7. Grand Bend

Grand Bend is another small town gem, perfect for an Ontario getaway. My family had a cottage here growing up and my parents retired here for about 10 years, so we know Grand Bend well.

Set on the shores of Lake Huron, Grand Bend offers a multitude of outdoor activities and its beach is always packed with people and activities. Nature lovers will enjoy a visit to Pinery Provincial Park for some camping. You can relax on a patio in one of the downtown restaurants. catch a show at Huron Country Playhouse, or enjoy its excellent beach.

Getting There: Grand Bend is approximately two hours from Hamilton and one hour from Windsor and is ideally situated for a relaxing getaway. Check out: 25 Best Places to Camp in Ontario, Canada

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.

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.

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 inspired for some adventure, go tubing or kayaking on a different section of the Grand River. Read more: 25 Day Trips from Toronto to Escape the City

Getting There: It is just an hour and a half from Toronto so book a hotel and stay for dinner.

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 Getaways in Ontario

There’s something special about visiting wine regions. There are a surprising amount of wine regions in Ontario, and each place has its own charm with romantic hotels, outdoor adventures, and, of course, wine tastings.

9. Niagara on the Lake

Niagara-on-the-Lake is a small town located in not only the best wine region, but also one of the best vacation spots in Ontario. Filled with historic charm, this town in Ontario is packed with culture, from post-1812 war buildings like Old Fort York and Laura Secord’s house to world-class theater productions at the Shaw Festival.

Some of the best wineries for a wine tasting are Inniskillin, Peller Estates, Calamus Estate Winery, King’s Court Estate Winery, and Flat Rock Cellars. If you want a romantic getaway, book this wine tasting tours and a relaxing hotel for you and your significant other. In the winter, don’t miss visiting the Cie-Wine Festival.

Getting There: Niagara-on-the-Lake is 20 minutes from Niagara Falls, an hour’s drive from  Hamilton  and an hour and a half from Toronto.

Plan your trip to Niagara-on-the-Lake

• 15 Amazing Things to do in Niagara on the Lake – Canada
• Where to Stay in Niagara Falls – Best Hotels
• Niagara Falls Road Trip – The Best of the Niagara Parkway
• Best accommodation option – The Pillar and Post Inn and Spa 

10. Prince Edward County

Prince Edward County is an island community is known for its local artists, beautiful beaches, particularly Sandbanks Provincial Park, and world class wineries.

When you aren’t visiting the vineyars, consider stopping at Dunes Beach and Outlet Beach and Cedar Sands Nature trail. A short trail that follows the Outlet River and has beautiful marshland viewpoints.

Make sure to dine at Amelia’s Garden Restaurant. The fine dining restaurant prides itself on organic, seasonal produce and farm to table dishes. You can also book accommodatoin at Angeline’s Inn

Getting There: At just a two-hour drive from Toronto , 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 – The best is  Log Cabin Point Cottage Resort.  

11. 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.

Getting There: 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.

Resort Getaways in Ontario

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

12. Sir Sam’s Inn and Spa

For the ultimate romantic getaway in Ontario a couples retreat should be on your list. Sir Sam’s Inn and Spa in Haliburton is a relaxing 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 to its waterspa. There are plenty of activities for both summer and winter trips from skiing and snowshoeing to boating and fishing. Book your weekend getaway here

Getting There: Sir Sam’s is a three and a half hour’s drive from Ottawa, so well-placed for a weekend of luxury.

13. Fern Resort

Fern Resort in Orillia is a beautiful family-friendly resort but also romantic for couples too. 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.

It is ideal for those wanting an action-packed, family-friendly resort experience. See more details here .

Getting There: Fern Resort is just under a two-hour drive from Toronto.

14. Couples Resort

Couples Resort is a beautiful resort overlooking Galeairy Lake in Algonquin Park. The all-inclusive couple’s only 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.

Getting There: The resort is three hours from Ottawa or nearly four hours from Toronto. See more availabiltiy and rates on TripAdvisor

15. Deerhurst Resort

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

Deerhurst can be considered family-friendly or one of the best romantic weekend getaways – it’s up to you to decide which. You can book a weekend stay at  Deerhurst Resort here

Getting There: Deerhurst is a two-and-a-half-hour drive from Toronto Check out details here.

16. Cedar Grove Lodge

We loved the romance of Cedar Grove Lodge in Huntsville. It is located on 150 feet of lakefront property on Peninsula Lake. There are plenty of things to do in Huntsville to keep you busy as well. Read: Things to do in Muskoka in Winter

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. Snuggling up by the fire in the snowy landscape is one of the most romantic places in Ontario. Check availability and rates for Cedar Grove on TripAdvisor

17. 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. Facilities include a heated pool, onsite beach, private dock, and patios or balconies overlooking the lake. Make reservations here.

Getting There: Severn Lodge is just forty minutes by car from Barrie and two hours from Toronto.

18. Idlewyld Inn and Spa

Idlewyld Inn and Spa is the number one destination for an elegant getaway in Western Ontario. 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. 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. There is a huge hot tub, saunas, and steam rooms to chill out in for the afternoon.  Compare prices on TripAdvisor

Family Getaways in Ontario

Ontario is fantastic for family fun. We’ve picked these extra-special places for our next section; these are the best getaways for the whole family.

20. Collingwood / Blue Mountain

Collingwood is an action-packed destination in Ontario. In the summer, you can explore limestone caves, and winter it is the best place in Ontario for skiing. You can get all your family zipping down the slopes at Blue Mountain Resort in winter and then escape to the hot tub apres ski. It truly is the perfect weekend getaway anytime of the year.

Blue Mountain and Collingwood is one of the most adventurous and romantic getaways, but we included it under family Ontario getaways because there is so much to do. There are also more challenging adventures for older children, like ATV adventure tours, snorkeling tours, and off-roading.

Getting there: Blue Mountain Village is just over a two-hour drive from Toronto and is  full of things to do .

In the Winter, we love to stay at the  Blue Mountain Inn  Slopeside. In the summer our choices are the gorgeous  Westin Trillium House

21. 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. As the waterfall capital of the world, there are countless waterfalls to explore, plenty of hikes and even vineyards.

The city is smaller than Toronto and packed with kid-friendly activities like Spencer Smith Park 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 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 . The best family-friendly option in Hamilton is Staybridge Suites Hamilton Downtown

22. 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.

There are plenty of things to do with a focus on water sports and adventures. But there is also a lot to do on land 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 – 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.

23. Sauble Beach

Sauble Beach is a fantastic destination. The tiny beach community on the shores of Lake Huron is famous for 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.

Great Outdoors

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 hikes and biking trails and some of the best wildlife spotting on earth.

24. Algonquin Provincial Park

Algonquin Provincial Park is heaven on Earth for nature lovers. The park is more than 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. It is the premier destiantion in Ontario for multi day canoe trips where you’ll spot moose, otters, beavers and even bears.

Its famous trails, like Lookout Trail and Centennial Ridges Trail, are perfect scenic hikes to squeeze into a weekend itinerary. And you have attractions like the Algonquin Logging Museum and Algonquin Art Centre all year round if you fancy a bit of culture.

Getting There: 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 –  Killarney Lodge  is an all-inclusive park hotel with rustic lakeside cabins – well worth a look at.

25. Batchawana Bay Provincial Park

Batchawana Bay Provincial Park is a fantastic weekend getaway and is a 418-acre lakeside park with gorgeous beaches. 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

26. Bruce Peninsula National Park

Bruce Peninsula Park is over 30,000 acres in size and is an absolute haven for outdoor enthusiasts. The park straddles the famed Niagara Escarpment and Georgian Bay coastline to enjoy.

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 in Tobermory. Read our  guide on things to do in Tobermory .

Getting There: From Toronto, it is a three-and-a-half-hour drive.

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.

Best accommodation option – 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 .

27. 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

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 and should be planned for a long weekend.

Best accommodation option in Pukaskwa NP – Pic River Guest Suite .

28. Manitoulin Island

Spending a weekend on Manitoulin Island a rejuvenating escape amidst breathtaking natural beauty and rich Indigenous culture, making it one of the best weekend getaways in the province.

As the world’s largest freshwater island, it offers an array of activities, from exploring the stunning Bridal Veil Falls to hiking the Cup and Saucer Trail, which boasts some of the most spectacular views in Ontario. Visit the charming villages of Little Current and Kagawong, and immerse yourself in local culture at the Ojibwe Cultural Foundation.

Getting There: Manitoulin is 6 hours from Toronto. It is a 4-hour scenic drive from Sudbury or a ferry ride from Tobermory aboard the MS Chi-Cheemaun, adding to the adventure.

29. Le Boat – Rideau Canal and Trent Severn

Houseboat tours are all the rage in Ontario, and there is no better weekend getaway (or week-long getaway) than renting your own houseboat to navigate Ontario’s historic waterways. We have navigated the Rideau Canal north from Smiths Falls to Ottawa and South from Smiths Falls to Kingston. With beautiful small towns to explore, from Smiths Falls to Merrickville, Westport, and Jones Falls, you’ll see some of the best little hamlets in Ontario.

The locks are 250 year old UNESCO World Heritage Sites that are absolutely awe-inspiring to go through. This is by far our favourite weekend getaway in Ontario and we saved the best for last. Guests drive their own houseboats through these historic waterways creating a memory to last a lifetime.

It is safe to say that we love Ontario, and we bet you will, too, when you try these weekend getaways. For more inspiration in Ontario, 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 .

Plan your Le Boat Trip

• Rideau Canal Cruise – Amazing Cruise Holiday with Le Boat
• Cruise The Rideau Canal to Ottawa – Complete 7 Day Itinerary

Travel Planning Resources

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

Book Your Flights: Start planning your trip by finding the best flight deals on Skyscanner. We have used them for years and have found that they have the best flight deals.

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:

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

Book Your Activities: Looking for walking tours, skip-the-line tickets, private guides, and more? Then we recommend Get Your Guide.

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.

You May Also Like

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Trent Severn Waterway With Le Boat – The Ultimate Guide

About The Planet D

Dave Bouskill and Debra Corbeil are the owners and founders of The Planet D. After traveling to 115 countries, on all 7 continents over the past 13 years they have become one of the foremost experts in travel. Being recognized as top travel bloggers and influencers by the likes of Forbes Magazine , the Society of American Travel Writers and USA Today has allowed them to become leaders in their field.

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30 Exciting Weekend Getaways in Ontario: Your Top Places to Visit in Ontario for the Weekend

Planning weekend getaways in Ontario is a great way to see all the beauty of our province bit by bit. We’ve put together a list of 30 different ideas for weekend getaways in the province. We’ve organized the list by region, but make sure you check out all the ideas to help plan the perfect weekend for you to hit the road and savour Ontario.

If you’re looking for ways to mix up your day-to-day routine at home, then consider taking one of these exciting weekend getaways in Ontario.

Ontario is full of so many fantastic options for things to do. The main thing to keep in mind when you’re planning weekend getaways in Ontario is to choose something that’s close enough to justify going there for a weekend.

That’s why we’ve organized this list of weekend getaways into regional areas in the province, so you can think about how far you’re looking to go, and plan accordingly.

Putting together this list was a lot of fun, and there are so many different types of getaways on this list: quaint and quiet, zen and natural, unique and creative, or urban and entertaining.

Please note that this post may contain some affiliate links. This means we get a small commission for sharing our recommendations, at no cost to you.

Weekend Getaways in Ontario’s Southwest

Go on a bike tour around the lake erie north shore wine region.

On this weekend getaway, stay in Kingsville for the weekend. Jaunt out to the Lake Erie North Shore wine region for one of your two days.

There are over thirteen wineries and five restaurants in the region, along with some great shops in Kingsville and some of the surrounding hamlets. There are some breweries in the area, too.

If you’re looking to add a little something extra, this weekend getaway in Ontario can also lead you over to Leamington for some great beer , food, and views of Lake Erie at the Point Pelee Observation Tower.

Head to the Southernmost Points in Mainland and Island Canada

Start your weekend in the region by heading to Point Pelee National Park. The scenic drive down to the southernmost tip of mainland Canada is a neat experience. There are hiking trails and boardwalk paths you can explore. If you’re short on time, head to the Observation Tower .

Next, take the ferry from Leamington (make sure you book your ticket for the ferry well in advance!) to Pelee Island. The ferry ride is about 90 minutes, depending on weather conditions. Make sure you bring a book. We are big fans of The Wandering Dog Inn on Pelee Island, and there are plenty of great places to check out once you’re there.

Carve out some time to rent a bike, explore the island, go swimming, head to some restaurants, and enjoy living the island life. A Point Pelee winter getaway is another great way to experience this incredible park.

Dip Your Toes into Exciting Outdoor Experiences and Delectable Wineries in Norfolk County

Welcome to “Ontario’s Garden.” Stay at Long Point Eco-Adventures or the Port Rowan Inn* as your base for a weekend in the region .

To book your stay at Long Point Eco-Adventures, click here .

While you’re in Norfolk, head to different wineries and breweries, check out some lavender fields if you visit in the summer months, or enjoy many of the farm-fresh markets and roadside farm stands. This is, after all, a great growing region, so whether you visit in the summer or fall, the heaps of farm-fresh foods are a delight.

Make sure you plan to stop at Burning Kiln Winery during your stay–their famous “Kiln Hanger” is award-winning and one of the top-rated wines in the province. Long Point Eco-Adventures also has some exciting outdoor activities like zip-lining and mountain biking, or educational experiences like apiary tours and mushroom foraging hikes.

*Note: The Port Rowan Inn is closed for renovations as of May 2023.

Go “Retro” in Chatham and Nearby Small Towns

Stay at the Retro Suites Hotel in Chatham. This neat hotel has over twenty suites, each with its own unique theme. It’s a destination in and of itself. If you happen to visit in June, or if you love learning about and seeing vintage cars, then make sure you check out their annual Retro Fest .

To book a memorable stay at the Retro Suites Hotel, click here .

Head to their restaurant, the Chilled Cork, for breakfast or dinner, and head to Sons of Kent brewing before you walk around town.

After you’ve enjoyed some time in Chatham, there are some adorable towns in the region to check out, too. Dresden is one of our favourites!

Relax on the Shores of Lake Huron in Grand Bend

Head to Grand Bend for the weekend. This spot is one of the most charming towns in Ontario . Grand Bend is a great place to visit in the warmer months to enjoy the beaches and its access to Lake Huron.

We’re also big fans of Pinery Provincial Park, which is just down the road. It’s a great park for taking long, scenic walks and enjoying more of what the shores of Lake Huron have to offer.

A Weekend in London, And Then Some

A weekend getaway in London is a great option for those looking for an experience in the city. Stay at The Park Hotel; it’s a really impressive property.

To book your stay at The Park Hotel, click here .

London is home to a ton of great restaurants. There are also a lot of unique and local things to do in the area .

If you’re looking to explore a few fun nearby places, there are some great golf courses near London . The town of Strathroy is also beautiful. The Clocktower Inn is a great place to stay overnight or enjoy a meal. MJ’s Roadhouse in Lucan is also a restaurant worth stopping at.

To book a stay at the historic Clocktower Inn, click here .

If you’re keen to venture a little further, the town of Port Stanley is also very charming!

A Weekend in Windsor

Windsor is another great city in Ontario’s Southwest. The range of different activities and things to do in Windsor is pretty exhaustive! If you’re looking for a Las Vegas-style getaway without the flight, Caesar’s Palace in Windsor is an excellent place to stay. They even have their own casino!

If you want to experience Caesar’s Palace right here in Ontario for yourself, click here .

Aside from casinos, Windsor’s Ford City is a neighbourhood well worth checking out .

A weekend in Windsor can also easily be combined with an extension to Pelee Island Wine Country if you have the time.

Weekend Getaways in Ontario’s South Central

Take in the Scenic Rolling Hills and Hamlets of Mulmur

There are so many beautiful hamlets to be explored on this weekend getaway in Ontario. This is more of a relaxed pace for a weekend escape than others. Stay at Foxingham Farm B&B in Mansfield to enjoy the rolling hills in the spring and summer, brilliant fall colours in autumn, or downhill skiing in the winter.

To book your stay at the charming Foxingham Farm Bed & Breakfast, click here .

Head to Mrs. Mitchell’s Restaurant for a delicious breakfast, dinner, or afternoon tea. Explore the Dufferin Museum and plenty of shopping and farms in the region. Don’t forget to visit the Schitt’s Creek Rosebud Motel and the region of Hockley Valley while you’re here, too.

Head to Lake Scugog and its Surrounding Charming Towns

Regardless of what time of year you visit, this corner of Durham Region is a pretty place. In the warmer months, heading out kayaking off of Lake Scugog is the perfect way to get out on the water. During the winter, ice fishing on the same lake is a favourite local pastime.

Round out your visit by spending some time in Port Perry. Learn various crafts in art classes at Meta4. Sample some delicious local craft beer at Old Flame Brewery. Or enjoy lunch or stay overnight at the Piano Inn and Cafe, or head just outside town to the charming Nestleton Waters Inn.

On your way in our out of Port Perry, you can head to Uxbridge. Make sure you stop at a local favourite, Haugen’s, on your way. Their rotisserie chickens have been spinning for over 60 years! Stop in Goodwood, too, before arriving in Uxbridge. Goodwood is the home of downtown Schitt’s Creek–think Cafe Tropical and Rose Apothecary .

In Uxbridge , there are a lot of great restaurants, hiking and biking trails. You can catch your breath at The Second Wedge for a pint after your adventures.

Enjoy a Weekend of Neighbourhood Culture in Toronto

Of course, it’s challenging to cram all the ideas for things to do in Toronto into a little blurb, but we’d recommend planning your weekend based on a region. We’ve outlined a few neighbourhoods and ideal hotels you can stay at in each one.

Maybe you’d like to book a stay on the waterfront at the Westin Harbour Castle and check out the surrounding areas. Or, perhaps you’d like to stay in the eastern neighbourhoods of the city and book yourself into the Broadview Hotel in Leslieville .

Or maybe you plan to stay more centrally, like booking a stay at The Chelsea Hotel . And if you head to the west, you might be happier booking a few nights at The Drake .

Regardless of which direction you choose on this weekend getaway, Toronto is chock-full of fun-filled activities , water sports , hiking trails , fun facts , and bars for you to check out on your visit.

It’s always fun to see what’s on at the Royal Ontario Museum or the Art Gallery of Ontario when you visit the town, too! There are even some ways to visit these Toronto museums for free .

If you’re looking to take a tour while you’re in Toronto, we’d highly recommend taking an evening helicopter tour of the city. You can book your ticket here.

Head to one of the Most Charming Towns Near the Grand River

This is a bit of a stretch, since not all of these towns connect to the Grand River, but take your pick between a charming weekend in either Stratford, Elora, or Paris.

Both Elora and Paris, while distanced, are situated on different spots along the Grand River. Both are scenic and charming. Stratford is a little further west along Lake Victoria.

Take in the History and Nature of Niagara

This weekend getaway combines the historic charm of Niagara-on-the-Lake with family fun and excitement in Niagara Falls. Depending on the type of weekend getaways in Ontario you’re looking for, you can easily pick one or the other, or do a combination of both.

Begin with all the excitement that Niagara Falls’ attractions offer. You can do exhilarating things like:

• Zip-Line over the falls (you can book your ticket here )
• Take a jet boat tour of the Niagara Rapids (make sure you book your tour here )
• Head to the Butterfly Conservatory

To round out the exciting portion of the weekend, take a breath in charming Niagara-on-the-Lake. Rent a bike and visit local wineries or nature paths along the Niagara River, or simply stroll around town, stopping to shop, have a bite to eat , or just admire the beautiful buildings in the area. Either Niagara Falls or Niagara-on-the-Lake can be its own weekend getaway, but if you’re interested in both areas, it’s definitely worth it to find time to work them both in.

Relax and Enjoy the Outdoors in Collingwood and The Blue Mountains

This is one of the weekend getaways in Ontario that takes you to the scenic mountains of southern Ontario. Collingwood is a wonderful jumping-off point to see the region. They have a lot of great breweries and restaurants, and plenty of fun things to do.

Just a stone’s throw away, The B lue Mountains also offer a ton of fun things to do in the region. If you’re keen on outdoor activities, it is a great place to be. If you prefer more of a relaxing weekend getaway in the surrounds of nature, then this is also the right spot. This is especially true since there are plenty of relaxing spas in the area for you to enjoy during your stay.

To book your stay at Blue Mountain Resort while you’re in town, click here .

Relaxation and Neighbourhood Walks at Langdon Hall and Cambridge

For those who have visited this corner of Waterloo Region, it is certainly a very special place. Langdon Hall is a well-known and renowned place to stay. This historic and impressive estate will certainly leave a lasting and memorable impression on you well after you leave. They offer packages that include spa credits and multi-course meals on the property.

Book your unforgettable stay at Langdon Hall by clicking here .

When you’re ready to explore beyond the relaxing environment and grounds at Langdon Hall, the city of Cambridge, most specifically in the town of Galt, makes for a great place to walk around and explore. Galt has beautiful views of the Grand River, and a lot of great coffee shops, pubs, and restaurants in the area.

For TV and film enthusiasts, its historic homes and charming streets are the places of numerous filming locations, namely for Hulu’s The Handmaid’s Tale and Netflix’s The Queen’s Gambit . Keep an eye out for these locations as you walk around town. And don’t forget to stop at Foundry Brewing before heading back to Langdon Hall.

Take in the Food, Culture and History of St. Jacobs and Kitchener

Plan to stay in or near the quaint town of St. Jacobs over the weekend. The brand new Hampton Inn & Suites is an impressive building with great design and functionality, and it’s right across from the St. Jacobs Country Playhouse.

If you’d like to book a stay at the Hampton Inn & Suites in St. Jacobs, click here .

Enjoy a walking tour of the town of St. Jacobs and check out street art, shops, and great public spaces along the way. Plan to head to the famous St. Jacobs market on a Saturday for plenty of farm-market goods and freshly baked and cooked foods from different corners of the world. The market is famous for its apple fritters, but be prepared for long lines on Saturdays the longer you wait. Aim to go early, if it’s possible! Head to their Antique Stores, too. You’ll be sure to find something unique.

Finish the weekend with a guided Stroll Walking Tour around an area of your choice. Their Downtown Kitchener Mural Arts walk is a great way to learn about local artists in the region. Downtown Kitchener is also home to several wonderful places to grab a coffee or a drink, and restaurants for after you’ve finished your walk.

Weekend Getaways in Ontario’s Highlands, Kawarthas & Northumberland

Relax at St. Anne’s Spa and Visit Charming Local Towns

Plan an Ontario weekend getaway at the spa! St. Anne’s Spa in Grafton is a renowned and relaxing place to get away. While you’ll likely want to spend most of the weekend soaking in the relaxing delights of the spa, make sure you carve out some time to explore one of the local charming towns.

To book your relaxing stay at St. Anne’s Spa, click here .

Port Hope and Cobourg both made our list of the most charming small towns in Ontario ! Each is set on the shores of Lake Ontario and is worth exploring in its own right. Depending on the time of year, each town also has its own theatre with local shows, which would well be worth checking out during your visit.

Meander Through the Charming Small Towns of Lanark County

This region of Ontario is chock-full of charming small towns. We are big fans of Perth, Westport, and Almonte in Lanark County. Each of these towns has historic charm, great restaurants, and local businesses to support, and they are excellent for walking around.

Consider staying locally at a charming bed and breakfast. Clyde Hall B&B is a great place to stay , and its owners are talented pastry chefs.

To book your stay at Clyde Hall B&B, click here .

On top of being home to beautiful small towns, Lanark County is home to both the Lanark County Chocolate Trail , in addition to being the maple syrup capital of Ontario!

Wheeler’s Pancake House is a local favourite sugar shack to visit, with great walking trails through their sugar bush on the property. If the historic charm of the region isn’t enough to convince you, then we hope these sweet culinary delights will be.

Weekend Getaways in Ontario’s Southeast

Take Your Own Personal Food Tour in Belleville and the Bay of Quinte

Belleville is a great place for a weekend getaway in Ontario. Their downtown district is full of great places to eat, with everything from authentic Mexican food to gourmet restaurants. A bonus is that it’s very walking and bike-friendly, so there are plenty of ways to enjoy the fresh air as you wander.

Take some time to head out of the downtown core to Zwick’s Park or north to Signal Brewery on the Moira River. South to the harbour area is also great for beautiful views over the Bay of Quinte. We’re big fans of grabbing a sunset bite to eat or a drink at The Pier Patio Bar and Grill. This weekend could also easily be combined with…

A Weekend in Prince Edward County

Start your weekend by staying overnight in the charming small town of Picton, or at one of the cute bed and breakfasts across the region.

Merrill House is an incredible historic bed and breakfast in Picton, and makes for an excellent place to stay. Click here to book your room .

You can plan your days around spending time in nature, like at Sandbanks Provincial Park or Lake-on-the-Mountain. Aside from that, the adorable hamlets in the area are great to explore while you’re sipping your way through some of the most amazing wineries and breweries in this region.

Enjoy Quiet Island Life on Amherst Island and Mainland Bath

This is a special little corner of Lennox and Addington County. Amherst Island is a relaxing island, just off the coast of mainland Bath, Ontario.

Stay at The Lodge on Amherst Island in Stella. Make sure you check out all the things to do on Amherst Island . Either on your way there or on your way back from the island, be sure to stop in Bath for a coffee and a snack or lunch at The Lodge Coffee House . The owner is wonderful, and the food and coffee are worth the stop. It’s a great excuse to check out the small and charming historic town of Bath, too, and patronize their local businesses in the region.

Spend a Weekend in Canada’s Intended Capital City

Kingston is a great place to get away for the weekend in Ontario. Its history is one of great importance to our province and country, and the views from downtown out to Wolfe Island and Lake Ontario are beautiful. There are plenty of historic places to check out, and beautiful neighbourhoods to walk around.

Queens University campus also makes for a great place to explore and wander. There are plenty of other awesome things to do in Kingston that you can choose from on your weekend away.

We’d recommend booking your stay at The Smith Hotel , or booking a few nights at The Secret Garden Inn .

Boat and Wander Through the Thousand Islands and Gananoque

Gananoque is the perfect access point to the famous Thousand Islands region. Stay at the Comfort Inn and Suites in downtown Gananoque (we know, this sounds like an odd choice, but it’s honestly the best location to visit the area!) or a local inn or bed and breakfast downtown.

To book your stay at The Comfort Inn and Suites Gananoque, click here .

From central Gananoque, you can head on a boat or kayaking tour of the islands. There are long and short boat tours, some of which go all the way across to the mansions on the American side of the islands.

For a complete list of all the different types of tours your can take to see the Thousand Islands, click here .

You can also rent bikes and bike along the Thousand Islands Parkway, which is a beautifully paved and preserved road along the Canadian shore of the St. Lawrence River.

Gananoque also has a wonderful restaurant scene and a great brewery. While you’re in town, check out what’s on at the Thousand Islands Playhouse.

On your way out of town, be sure to stop at BUSL Cider in Mallorytown for some scenic rural views and tasty samplings at this modern cidery.

Weekend Getaways in Ontario’s East

Explore Canada’s Capital

Ottawa is a fantastic city to visit on a weekend. There are so many fun things to do and see that would easily fill up more than a weekend. We’d recommend pinpointing what makes you tick when you plan one of your weekend getaways in Ontario based in Ottawa.

Plan to stay at a central hotel. The Andaz Hotel in the Byward Market is a great option, with beautiful views of Parliament from the top floor. If you’re looking to splurge a little, staying at the Fairmont Chateau Laurier is a very special experience.

To book your stay at the Andaz Hotel, click here . To book your stay at the Chateau Laurier, click here .

You can use this list of fun facts about Ottawa to help you plan. Ottawa is home to many informative tours , walks, experiences, markets , and finer things . If you plan to visit in the spring, that’s the perfect time to experience Ottawa’s famous tulip festival while they’re in bloom. You’re sure to find something that’s just right for you when you visit Ottawa.

If you are a fan of guided tours, there are also so many exciting ways to see Ottawa by tour. You can take biking tours, river cruises or walking tours, and far more. To discover all the great tours in Ottawa, click here.

Hire a Houseboat to Cruise the Rideau Canal

This is a very neat experience that would lend itself well to a weekend getaway. If you weren’t aware that you could rent a houseboat in Ontario, then you should definitely check out Le Boat Vacations. Le Boat offers experiences all over the world, but their boat trips along the Rideau Canal between Ottawa and Kingston are not to be missed.

You are essentially given a boat, instructed on how to use it, and you’re off! You’ll need to bring your own food and supplies, so it’s kind of like an elevated camping experience on the water. Plus, you’ll take in the sights of the UNESCO World Heritage site of the Rideau Canal the way it was intended: from the water.

Weekend Getaways in Ontario’s North (Sudbury and Beyond)

Spend a Weekend in “The Soo”

Sault Ste. Marie is a great place for a weekend getaway, especially for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. There are so many awesome things to do in “The Soo” . Make sure you save some time to check out the many great restaurants in town while you’re there, too!

Enjoy the Urban and Natural Attractions in Thunder Bay

Thunder Bay is home to some really fun activities and outings . You can go sailing in the summer months, or hiking and downhill skiing in the winter.

It has some pretty phenomenal historical sites to check out in the region , too. And their food scene and culinary delights aren’t to be missed.

Plan to Take in Some Stars in the Dark Sky

We are so lucky to have some incredible places for stargazing in Ontario . Not only can we enjoy the stars from so many different parts of the province, but we have several designated dark-sky preserves right here in the province of Ontario.

One of the newest official dedicated preserves is in Quetico Provincial Park . It’s a rugged park, located north of Lake Superior and bordering Minnesota. It’s one of several excellent places to see the Northern Lights in Ontario .

Head to Enchanting Manitoulin Island on Lake Huron

Manitoulin Island is another excellent island worth checking out on an Ontario weekend getaway. You’ll likely want to make a long weekend out of it if time permits, but it will certainly be worth it.

There are plenty of cruises and hikes that you can take to fully immerse yourself in the nature of the island. There are also several ways for you to learn about the Indigenous peoples of the island, and better understand the history of the place you’re visiting. The North Channel Cruise is especially one of our favourites to take in on this weekend getaway in Ontario.

Enjoy Science and Nature in Sudbury

There are so many exciting things to do in Sudbury . With everything from “sciencey” sites like The Big Nickel and Science North, to the Bell Park Walkway and the Lake Laurentian Conservation Area, it’s perfect for a family weekend getaway.

Sudbury is also an excellent destination for restaurants and delicious food . You’ll be sure to leave happy and satisfied after a visit to some of their amazing restaurants.

The Importance of Taking Weekend Getaways in Ontario

We are so thrilled that you’ve taken the time to read through our list of weekend getaways in Ontario.

The options are truly endless for exploring this province, and with each trip, you’ll encounter small business owners, passionate hosts in hotels, inns, bed and breakfasts, and places perfect for reflection.

Our emphasis on “slow travel”, and taking in local delights is a philosophy we truly hope will stick at Ultimate Ontario. We see it as the future of travel here, and we hope you do, too.

There’s a lot worth exploring in this province. We hope you find that by the end of your weekend getaways in Ontario, you’ll come back happy for what you’ve seen, but also yearning for your next opportunity to get back on the road.

We’ll see you there.

Bri Mitchell is a travel writer and content creator from Toronto, Ontario. She loves to highlight all things nature, food, wellness, history and adventures in her work. Bri writes and shares her travel experiences from across Canada and beyond on Instagram and TikTok @brimitchelltravels, and in her articles for travelingmitch.com , Ultimate Ontario, and here on We Explore Canada.

Tuesday 24th of August 2021

Spelt Lake Erie incorrectly, " the Lake Eerie North Shore Wine Region

On this weekend getaway, stay in Kingsville for the weekend. Jaunt out to the Lake Eerie."

Kevin Wagar

Thursday 26th of August 2021

Thanks for catching that!

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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,

What are you looking for?

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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15 Places To Visit in Fall in Ontario | Best Autumn Activities

Ontario provides a charming setting for a relaxing getaway as the weather gets cooler and the leaves begin to turn. Ontario is nestled in east-central Canada for those unfamiliar with our beautiful province. It is home to breathtaking lakes, lush forests, extensive national parks, and the renowned Niagara Falls. With these 15 places to visit in fall in Ontario, it’s the perfect excuse to push for that final road trip!

Our bias aside, Ontario is beautiful year-round. Still, the fall season offers awe-inspiring scenic views as the foliage turns from bright greens to vibrant yellows, oranges, and reds. From relaxing near a lake to tackling an exhilarating hiking trail, there are plenty of fall getaways in Ontario with loads of adventure.

Whether you’re heading on a fun family vacation or a romantic getaway in Ontario , a few spots are an absolute must to visit during the fall season. And as luck would have it, you’ll find them in this guide, as we’ve listed our favourite spots to visit during autumn in Ontario.

Last Updated: July 26, 2023

This post contains affiliate links, which means if you click and buy, we will make a commission (at no cost to you). See my  full disclosure policy  for more details.

Fall in Ontario

Before diving into the best attractions, let’s consider what you can expect when spending time in Ontario. Autumn provides crisp winds with classic leafy views from September to November.

One of the most sought-after experiences attracting local and international travellers is viewing the beautiful Ontario fall colours. The best time to view the striking foliage is mid-September and late October.

As the leaves begin to fall to the ground, some regions experience rainy weather. And the snow may come as early as October in northern areas like the city of North Bay. So, we’d recommend packing your favourite rain jacket to prepare for the Ontario weather .

If you are looking for amazing fall drives from Eastern Ontario, our good friends at Ottawa Road Trips put together Three gorgeous fall drives in Eastern Ontario !

Places with the Top Fall Activities in Ontario

Whether you’re looking for eastern Ontario points of interest or top attractions in the southern region, plenty of places offer an enjoyable experience. Here is a list of a few must-visit attractions for your next fall adventure.

Thousand Islands | Thousand Islands National Park

Located about 40 minutes from Kingston and one hour from Napanee and Bath , the Thousand Islands is an extensive group of over 1800 islands in the St. Lawrence River. It is home to captivating natural beauty, rich history, and more than 49 kilometres of walking trails.

The islands provide plenty of fun things to do in eastern Ontario, such as boat trips, fishing, scenic walks, and helicopter tours . You’ll come across charming lighthouses and historic castles on the islands. For the best panoramic viewing opportunities of the picturesque fall foliage, head to the Thousand Island Tower. 

The tower features three observation decks and an elevator that runs continuously. It provides a view of over 80 kilometres of the region. It is undoubtedly a top spot to get those Instagram-worthy fall pictures.

If you’re travelling with kids, there are numerous attractions in proximity to keep your little ones entertained. Check out the Arthur Child Heritage Museum, 1000 Island Boat Museum, and Jones Creek. 

**Be sure to bring your passport as some of the boat tours will take you over to the USA’s side of the border**

Prince Edward County

Prince Edward County is a great place to go if you want to see some beautiful autumn leaves. Here you’ll find two great Provincial Parks: Sandbanks Provincial Park and Presqu’ile National Park. Both provide beautiful hikes through the woods and stunning views of the lake. Sandbanks is the more popular option due to their unique rolling sand dunes.

Prince Edward County is also known for its beautiful wineries . During the cool autumn months, visitors can visit several of these wineries and taste wines from the region. Many serve light snacks or charcuterie boards with local cheeses and meats to accompany their wines.

Kawartha Lakes

When considering fall trips in Ontario, Kawartha Lakes is one of the best destinations to visit. It is home to rich local culture, vibrant arts, lush scenery, historic sites, and countless activities such as scenic drives and fall fairs.

One of our favourites is the Bobcaygeon Fall Fair which honours local agricultural businesses. The fair comprises several fun rides, competitions, live music, and yummy treats from local vendors.

Another epic experience in the area is touring the Arts and Heritage Trail. Here you’ll discover the captivating heritage and artistic talent of the region. It comprises various attractions and local stores, such as galleries, craft shops, artisan studios, and historical sites. 

You can explore the entire trail in a day or pick a few fascinating destinations. Some of our favourites include the Kawartha Settlers’ Village, Olde Gaol Museum and Austin Sawmill. It’s an exceptional adventure for history buffs and those looking to explore local legends and hidden gems.

• Algonquin Provincial Park

For outdoor enthusiasts, the Algonquin Provincial Park is a fitting destination. Established in 1893, it is one of the oldest provincial parks in Canada. The park encompasses 7,653 square kilometres of breathtaking wilderness.

It is one of the best places to see in Ontario. It offers plenty of fun activities, such as scenic hiking trails, wildlife watching, fishing, and biking. You’ll also find a network of canoe-friendly routes that stretches for around 2,000 kilometres.

The park boasts picturesque fall foliage, making it an ideal destination to see some of the best fall colours in Ontario. Amongst the maple and birch trees, there are several wildlife species. Keep an eye out for animals like moose, beavers, white-tailed moose, and black bears wandering in the forest. 

You might want to stay a few extra days with so much to explore. Fortunately, the park features several developed campsites and is an excellent spot for camping in the backcountry. If you’re not a traditional camper, consider glamping in Ontario for a more luxurious experience.

Muskoka Region

Muskoka Region, aka Cottage Country, has some of the best scenery in Canada during autumn, with acres of trees turning colours and changing foliage.

So many things to do in Muskoka during the fall, including hiking to various lookout points, attending the Bala Cranberry Festival, and visiting the Georgian Bay Islands National Park (which is next on this list)

The biggest town in Muskoka is the Town of Huntsville. It is perfect for your base accommodations for a great long weekend getaway.

Things to Do in Huntsville, Ontario | Ultimate Weekend Itinerary

For more information on nearby trails, check out our guide:

Huntsville Hikes, ON | 10 Best Muskoka Hiking Trails

Bookmark these great Huntsville blog post blog posts for your summer road trips:

Huntsville Camping | Best Huntsville Campgrounds for an Epic Weekend Getaway  

Huntsville Fishing Spots: The Top 5 In The Muskoka Region

Arrowhead Provincial Park

About 10 minutes away from Huntsville is Arrowhead Provincial Park. The park offers visitors an excellent chance to enjoy several fall activities in Ontario.

The fall colours of Arrowhead are vivid with brilliant red and gold foliage. While in the park, be sure not to miss the Big Bend Viewing Point. You can see a massive curve in the river below from this lookout. After Big Bend, take a short hike to Stubbs Falls. This is the most popular hike in the park, with loads of beautiful autumn leaves.

Georgian Bay Islands National Park

If you’re looking for scenic places to visit near Toronto in fall, the Georgian Bay Islands National Park is an excellent option. It is located in Honey Harbour, just two hours north of Toronto.

The park comprises around 13.5 square kilometres and 63 small islands. It is only accessible by boat and boasts a rich history, ancient forests, and vast wetlands. During fall, the park is open from September 7th to October 11th.

There are numerous activities on these scenic shores, such as kayaking, boating, birding, wildlife viewing, mountain biking, and canoeing. If you’re looking to get your boots dirty, there are also several hiking trails.

Hiking in the fall is an epic experience. You’ll walk through beautiful maple and fine forests with breathtaking lake views. Some of our top picks for an enjoyable hike include the Fairy trail, Huron trail, and the Cambrian trail.

Bruce Peninsula National Park

The Bruce Peninsula National Park is one of the best destinations for fall getaways Ontario has to offer. Nestled on the breathtaking Bruce Peninsula, the park comprises 156 square kilometres of protected land. It is situated on a UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve site, the Niagara Escarpment .

The vast lakeshores and woodlands provide abundant activities, such as swimming in glistening waters and exploring the rocky Georgian Bay coastline. There are several scenic hiking trails in the area with varying difficulty levels.

For an epic experience, we recommend hiking up the Bruce Trail and admiring the beautiful changing foliage. Other exhilarating activities at the park include canoeing, cycling, kayaking, bouldering, animal watching, and fishing.

With so many things to do, it’s one of our favourite places to visit in Ontario for the weekend. As the park receives countless visitors each year, it would be best to arrive early to avoid crowds. In between Georgian Bay Islands National Park and Bruce Peninsula National Park, you’ll find Collingwood & Blue Mountain Resort .

Manitoulin Island

During fall, Manitoulin is one of the most beautiful islands in Canada. It has an abundance of authentic First Nations experiences.

Spend time immersing yourself in the island’s best things, like traditional crafts, art, museums, drum­ming, hiking, and local cuisine. Hike the most popular trail in Ontario — The Cup & Saucer Trail!

Whitefish Island

Whitefish Island is a beautiful place to visit during autumn. First Nations people have inhabited it since before European contact. Today, it belongs to the Batchewana band, with outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, fishing, kayaking etc. Suppose you’re looking to enjoy the glorious autumn colours. Consider taking the spectacular Agawa Canyon Railway Tour and exploring the Canadian Shield with its rugged beauty, pristine forests and beautiful river valleys.

• Agawa Canyon

The Agawa Canyon offers a spectacular experience in northern Ontario in the Algoma District. This shallow canyon was created around 1.2 billion years ago from faulting by the Canadian Shield and enlarged by the erosive action of the Agawa River.

With glowing vistas and cascading waterfalls, the Agawa Canyon is one of the world’s most popular destinations. The canyon is open throughout the year, but fall is possibly the best time to visit. Some common animals include otters, beavers, wood ducks, and chipmunks.

Although the canyon is not accessible by car, you can enjoy the awe-inspiring views aboard the Agawa Canyon Train Tour on the Algoma Central Railway. The train provides a comfy 228-mile ride with wildlife sightings and magnificent panoramas of forests and waterfalls.  

Niagara Falls

The world-renowned Niagara Falls. It is one of Canada’s top attractions that attracts countless travellers annually. It comprises three waterfalls: Horseshoe, American, and Bridal Veil Falls.

The waterfalls straddle the border between Canada and the United States. In Ontario, you’ll find Horseshoe Falls. It is the largest of the three waterfalls and has a tremendous hydraulic power source.

You can experience this magnificent natural wonder by walking behind, cruising, gliding past, or simply gazing at it. Viewing the fall colours in this idyllic setting is an out-of-this-world sightseeing experience . We recommend heading on a Niagara Hornblower Cruise and experiencing the stunning vistas from the base of the Falls. You can also view the thundering water from above at the Table Rock watching spot. Other fun activities include the Niagara Skywheel, yoga, ziplining , jet boat tours, and helicopter rides.

  Long Point Provincial Park

Long Point Provincial Park is fantastic for hiking, camping, fishing, boating, kayaking, canoeing, and swimming. It is important to note that its varied natural landscape is recognized as one of UNESCO’s World Biosphere Reserves.

Fall offers many outdoor activities, including kayaking, biking, and Long Point Eco Adventures. If you’re looking for something different, there are plenty of options along the South Coast Wine Country of Norfolk County. We recommend the Ride The Bine Tour . Ride the Bine offers local beer, wine, ciders, and distilleries tours in Ontario and aims to bring consumers closer to where their foods come from.

Ouimet Canyon

Suppose you’re looking for a place where you can experience unaltered landscapes and complete peace. In that case, the Ouimette Canyon is perfect for you!

Fall is one of the best times of year for hiking because there are so many beautiful sights to see. You’ll be able to enjoy spectacular scenery, including stunning vistas of a 150-metre wide gorge and sheer cliffs that drop straight into the canyon floor.

The canyon offers an exciting landscape for a fun afternoon, including hiking and wildlife viewing. Be sure to keep your eyes open for unusual plant life at the base of the canyon; some plants usually are only found in the Arctic but thrive here.

Kakabeka Falls Provincial Park | Kakabeka Falls

Located in the Kakabeke Falls Provincial Park, the falls on the Kaministiquia River are the second highest in Ontario at 40 metres in length.

The boardwalks installed at the top of each waterfall provide breathtaking views of the surrounding area, especially during the fall season.

In addition to offering tent and RV camping at three campground locations, Kakabeka Falls Provincial Park offers numerous hiking trails for different skill levels, bird watching, bike riding, and nature education.

Learn more about Ouimet Canyon and Kakabeka Falls Provincial Park here: Fun Things To Do In Thunder Bay | Food, Art, History & Incredible Indigenous Experiences.

A Footnote on Places To Visit in Ontario in Fall

Ontario is a haven of natural beauty with an abundance of attractions. From hiking amongst maple trees to exploring the region’s historical treasures, there are adventures for all.

Whether you’re seeking thrilling activities or a relaxing lakeside experience, the vibrant foliage and crisp air provide the perfect setting for a rejuvenating getaway. As the  Ontario beach  days come to an end, fall promises stunning backdrops where you can enjoy those pumpkin-spiced treats.

What is the best time to see fall colours in Ontario?

The fall colours are highly influenced by several different outside factors, including the seasonal temperatures and the weather heading into the fall season. However, a general rule of thumb for most of the province is that the fall colours will be visible from late September through mid to late October. If you are planning fall getaways in Northern Ontario, the fall colours may start as early as late August!  

The fact that this window of time can change from year to year means that you will need to track the colour changes in the area you plan to visit. The Fall Colours Report on the Ontario Parks website is an excellent tool for accessing up-to-date information. For travellers that are set on seeing the autumn colours in all their glory, you may need to be flexible with your travel dates.

Where are the fall colours in Ontario?

When planning your Ontario fall getaways, you may wonder which locations will deliver the best display of fall colours. While you can see the changing colours anywhere in the province, some areas have earned a reputation for putting on an incredible show each year.  

Any of the destinations listed in the article above would make for a memorable fall adventure. But some of the renowned lookouts and best places to see fall colours in Ontario include:

• 1000 Islands National Park
• Point Pelee National Park
• Huron Natural Area
• Cup and Saucer Nature Reserve

Where is the best place near Toronto to see the fall colours?

When asking for the best places to see fall colours in Ontario, most travellers will focus on destinations in the Northern Ontario area. However, many beautiful destinations can be found closer to Toronto for an easy day trip. A few must-see locations for beautiful fall colours in Ontario include the following:

• Forks of the Credit Provincial Park
• Rouge National Urban Park
• Rattlesnake Point Conservation Area
• Belfountain Conservation Area
• Dundas Peak in Hamilton
• Sherman Falls (Bruce Trail in Hamilton)

Which park in Toronto has fall colours?

Are you eager to see the fall colours but unable to leave Toronto at that time of year? Don’t worry; there are many great viewing opportunities within the city for you to explore. Here are a few of the best places to see fall colours in Toronto:

• Trinity Bellwoods Park
• Taylor Creek Park
• David A. Balfour Park
• Evergreen Brickworks
• Crothers woods

Wherever you choose to visit, be sure to bring your camera or fully charge your phone so that you can capture all the beauty the season has to offer.

Is there anything specific I should bring when heading out to see the fall colours?

One of the best things about heading out to see these beautiful colours is that there is no “right way” or “wrong way” to do it.  For some, this could mean driving around their local area, pulling over to see the colours from the comfort of their heated vehicle. For others, it could mean a hike into the wilderness to immerse themselves in the colours of the season entirely.

If you plan on hiking or spending an extended time outside, you must dress for the weather.  Depending on where you are in the province, this could range from a warm fleece sweater to an insulated ski jacket . If you plan on taking photos, wear touch-screen compatible gloves so you don’t have to remove them to use your phone or camera.

Now that we’ve covered 15 places to go in fall in Ontario, which one are you heading to before winter hits? Share your favourite fall destination in the comments below.

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I would add Haliburton Forest to the list! It borders Algonquin with similar stunning views plus they have the Wolf Centre where you can learn more about the local wildlife and see the wolves up close and personal. It really is an incredible experience.

Noted! Thanks for sharing that. We’ll pay a visit!!

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Great Things to Do in Ontario, Canada For All Seasons

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A Local’s List of Things to Do in Ontario, Canada in All Seasons!

Whether you are a local looking up fresh ideas for places to visit in Ontario or a visitor looking for the best things to do, there is so much to see and do in Ontario.

With Eric having grown up in the province and driven around it numerous times for work and play, we like to think we can tell you about some of the best points of interest!

This post is designed to be a healthy mix of the best places to visit in Ontario (like beautiful towns and cities) as well as specific tourist attractions in Ontario.

We’ve also got things to do that are unique to Ontario and you can’t do anywhere else (or quite like in Ontario). That said, we know we still have lots of places to travel to in Ontario – and we’ll add to this article over time!

So, if you are wondering what to do in Ontario – whether this season or this weekend – we have got you covered.

From stunning wilderness and views to country stores and sightseeing in Ontario at popular tourist attractions, here’s our massive guide on the best and/or fun things to do in Ontario in all seasons!

This is a constantly growing article. Have we missed something great? Get in touch with us and we’ll be sure to look into it!

Table of Contents

Things to Do in Ontario in Most/All Seasons

The top part of this Ontario travel guide is all about great ideas for things to do in Ontario in all seasons.

This means that the things to do below are all things that you can visit most or at all times of the year. Trust us, Ontario tourism is alive and well in all seasons and we’ve tried to include a mix of Northern Ontario with things to do in Southern Ontario!

For example, there are lots of places to go in Ontario that simply change what they offer from the summer season to the winter.

Lots of the best Ontario attractions – especially the outdoor ones – do this. For example, you can visit Gretzky Estates Winery to taste wine in the summer and enjoy their outdoor skating rink in the winter!

So, keeping those criteria in mind, you can find great places to visit in Ontario and things to do in all seasons below.

If there is a famous seasonal-specific event at any one of these places, we’ll mention in specific things to do in Ontario by season posts (like things to do in Ontario in winter ) so that you don’t miss them!

Visit an Ontario Wine Region

Starting off strong with one of our favourite things to do in Ontario – you can visit one of the wine regions. Many of them make for great weekend getaways in Ontario in any season.

Believe it or not, there are actually around four main wine regions with several emerging wine regions within Ontario. This makes sense since Ontario is right in the prime grape-growing climate region and the Niagara Escarpment also makes for fertile conditions!

There is nothing like heading to one of these regions for a day (or overnight) and visiting local wineries to do tastings.

Many wineries offer guided tours of their facilities and have food onsite so you can spend some time relaxing and enjoying! There are well over 150 wineries in the province so you’ve got some visiting to do if you like wine.

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As for where to visit, we really like Niagara on the Lake . The region is one of the most beautiful places in Ontario to visit, has a small historic town (of the same name), and is close to Niagara Falls with lots of things to do .

Check out Ravine Vineyard Estate Winery – or consider doing a Niagara on the Lake wine tour so you don’t have to worry about driving.

Prince Edward County – between Toronto and Kingston – is another favourite wine region of ours.

This rural area on the shores of Lake Ontario is teeming with wineries . Head for Huff Estates Winery if you’re looking to get started. We’ve visited many times and written about other things to do and where to stay .

Of course, don’t forget about Twenty Valley (on the Niagara Peninsula), the North Shore of Lake Erie in Southwestern Ontario, and Grey County (south of Georgian Bay) if you are looking for other nice or up-and-coming wine regions.

Shop at a Farmers Market

Ontario has a rich agricultural heritage and produces a wide variety of products for itself, the rest of the country, and those abroad (maple syrup, anyone?). So, feel free to tap into those smells and tastes by visiting a local farmers’ market.

There are many farmers markets all over the place but you can usually find them in town and cities on specific days of the week.

From natural honey and cheeses to freshly grown fruits and vegetables or baked bakes breads, there is plenty of deliciousness to be tried.

If you are in Toronto, a stop by St. Lawrence Market is a great way to introduce yourself to the city and get a sense of what Ontario is all about. One of the best things to do in Guelph is to visit the Guelph Farmers Market that is open year round on Saturdays.

You can also check out the Kingston Public Market – the oldest market in Ontario – at Springer Market Square in downtown Kingston.

You’ll find antiques alongside the food items for sale. Wherever you live, there is sure to be a local market in your town or very close by. It’s also a great way to directly support local growers, too!

Go for an Ontario Hike

A sure-fire way to enjoy the vast Ontario outdoors is to go for a hike. To be honest, there are lots of places to see in Ontario if you are willing to put on shoes and walk a bit.

Hiking is great because there are so many trails around the province that you are sure to find something to suit your fitness level and time limits.

There are short hikes in Conservation Areas, longer hikes in Provincial Parks or National Parks, and free hikes along waterfronts for all to enjoy. These areas are particularly great in the summer sunshine or to enjoy fall colours, too.

We intentionally separated hiking from camping (even though both are generally done in Provincial Parks) because camping isn’t popular in all seasons. So, you can find camping in our summer in Ontario article.

Hiking, on the other hand, can be done at all times of the year, trail conditions depending. Some of our best hikes have been chilly winter hikes through quiet, snowy forests like in Scanlon Creek or Thornton Bales Conservation Area .

That said, there are many great hikes in areas that are popular for their accessibility, views, facilities, etc. One of the most popular provincial parks is Algonquin Park and – besides camping and canoeing – you can find many day hikes here (accessible from parking lots just off Highway 60).

Keep driving Highway 60 and you’ll end up in the Ottawa Valley where the Eagles Nest Lookout Trail in Calabogie offers some of the most stunning views in Ontario.

Back towards southwestern Ontario, head for Kelso Conservation Area in Milton, Forks of the Credit Provincial Park in the Caledon area, or Lion’s Head Provincial Park near Tobermory also for stunning views.

Ferris Provincial Park in Campbellford offers the Ranney Gorge Suspension Bridge, while Hardy Lake Park and Huckleberry Rock Lookout in the Muskokas make for good short hikes in pristine nature that are easy to do.

Check our detailed guide on the best areas to stay in Muskoka (with resort and accommodation options) if you’re planning on staying up in Muskoka.

Discover Niagara Falls

Even though we talk about Ontario waterfalls below, Niagara Falls – both the city and the waterfalls – deserve their own spot. This is because it’s one of the top attractions in Ontario and easily one of the best things to do in Canada!

To be clear, Niagara Falls is both the city in Canada and the name of the grouping of waterfalls on the Niagara River.

The “main waterfall” everyone likely knows as Niagara Falls is called Horseshoe Falls due to its U-shape. It’s also easy to get to Niagara Falls via the highways so it can be a doable drive if you’re in southern Ontario.

You can enjoy the Falls on the famous Hornblower Cruise , a Helicopter Tour over the Falls , and even on an Adventure Zipline with amazing views of the Falls!

The area surrounding the Niagara River offers hiking at the Niagara Glen and you can even get close to the raging river on the White Water Walk .

The city itself is also full of things to do and places to stay to make a whole weekend out of a trip there.

Visiting Clifton Hill and playing tourist in Niagara Falls is definitely something you should experience at least once in your lifetime. And you can visit the Falls in any season since they don’t turn off the Falls in the winter… contrary to what some may think.

Visit the Big Apple in Colbourne

Are you a fan of apples and all things apple-related? Then a stop at the Big Apple is for you. Located in Colborne, Ontario, this country store is located just off Highway 401.

You can’t miss it – there’s a giant smiling red apple you can clearly see from the side of the highway. Of all the points of interest in Ontario, we’d say this one is pretty unique!

Known for selling millions of their famous apple pies, they have an onsite restaurant, dog area, sweet shop, brewery, and more. So stop in to stretch your legs if you are making a long drive to Kingston or Ottawa or just stop in if you are in the area to pick up a sweet treat!

Having passed the Big Apple many times (Eric lived in Kingston for years), we finally stopped to check it out and it didn’t disappoint.

You can read more about visiting the Big Apple here . There are plenty of other great roadside attractions around the province which you can visit, too!

Take an Ontario Scenic Drive

Given that Ontario doesn’t have a great public transportation infrastructure (outside the GTA, at least), you need a car to experience most areas. Luckily, there are lots of places to drive to in Ontario.

Many great driving routes offer views or peaceful countrysides while others feature markets, attractions, and nature along the way. You might even stumble across sights like the West Montrose Covered Bridge – also known as the “Kissing Bridge”!

We have a number of favourite Ontario driving routes that we jump at the chance to take when we travel from place to place.

We really like driving Highway 60 that starts in Huntsville and extends through parts of Algonquin Park before spitting you out in Barry’s Bay, Renfrew, and eventually Ottawa.

Another great drive is heading from Huntsville to Kingston on Highway 35 through Dorset, 118 through to Haliburton and into Bancroft before heading south on 62.

A drive a bit further north that is also quite nice includes driving through Lake Superior Provincial Park on the Trans-Canada Highway between Sault Ste. Marie and Wawa.

You get these great views of the water as you crest the high clifftops and there are places to stop along the way.

Go Chase Ontario Waterfalls

We already mentioned visiting Niagara Falls – but there are many more Ontario waterfalls that you can discover.

Due to the unique geography that includes lakes and rivers, the Canadian Shield (rocky layer of the earth), and the Niagara Escarpment, there are waterfalls all over the province.

Many of them are located in parks or conservation areas while others can be spotted from the side of the road. Some are even man-made due to hydro projects.

It’s true that there are many waterfalls around the Niagara Escarpment Area that runs between Georgian Bay and Niagara Falls. With well over 100 waterfalls, Hamilton is a great place to start.

We got the chance to drive around for a day and experience some Hamilton waterfalls like the Devil’s Punchbowl. However, there are other great waterfalls that can be visited year-round, for example in the Hilton Falls Conservation Area or Kakabeka Falls outside of Thunder Bay.

While we are here: If you’re going to check out waterfalls, please follow the guidelines/ boundaries set out by the conservation areas. Crossing a barrier or going off-trail to get the perfect Instagram photo is not worth it.

This can be dangerous, hurts the area, and impacts others wanting to visit. (At the time of writing, Eugenia Falls was closed off to visitors because people got injured and had to be rescued due to crossing barriers).

Tour an Underground Mine in Sudbury

Dynamic Earth in Sudbury is one of the cool places to visit in Ontario. No, seriously – you can tour an underground mine which is around 13 degrees Celsius at all times!

As one of the top things to do in Northern Ontario, a visit to Dynamic Earth Museum – part of the Science North brand – is worth your time.

There are numerous exhibits all about the earth, rocks, nature, and the local connection to mining. This is also where you can find the famous Big Nickel which is the largest coin in the world!

The highlight of Dynamic Earth is definitely the underground mine tour. You’re led seven storeys underground and guided through a demonstration mine to learn about mining from back in the day to today! If you are looking for things to do in Ontario with kids, this is a top idea.

Attend an Ontario Festival

As the most populous province in Canada, Ontario has a vibrant festival scene shaped by art, music, cultures from around the globe, food, seasons, you name it! You can find festivals all around the province in big cities and small towns and at all times of the year.

There are many music festivals in Ontario like Bluesfest in Ottawa and more local ones like Peterborough Musicfest which is the longest-running free music festival in Canada.

If you are into the theatre, the Shaw Festival or the Stratford Festival run each year for the length of three seasons of the year (spring to fall) in Niagara-on-the-Lake and Stratford, respectively.

As for food, culture, and heritage, there’s the famous Toronto Caribana or the Taste of the Danforth (also in Toronto) and farm festivals like the Carrot Fest in Bradford West Gwillimbury or the Bala Cranberry Festival .

There are even smaller festivals like the CeltFest in Almonte. Eric went to CeltFest a few years back (it’s a cultural festival) and the traditional music was amazing, the beer was good, and the small-town atmosphere was super fun.

We’ll be sure to break down more notable festivals by season when we add to this post!

Eat and Drink on an Ontario Food Tour/Trail

We already mentioned checking out an Ontario farmers market but if you want to bring the food to you, you can follow one of the numerous Ontario food trails!

These taste trails have been established in different regions and usually highlight an area’s specialty product. Basically, if you are a foodie and have a car, this is the thing to do for you!

Of course, you can find actual foodie tours in Toronto but this isn’t what we mean by Food Trails.

There are a number of self-guided food-themed routes in different regions with different stores, restaurants, and vendors acting as places to visit to sample the item in question!

If you have a sweet tooth, you might want to follow the Apple Pie Trail through the Blue Mountains south of Georgian Bay or the Butter Tart Tour through the Kawarthas.

More broadly, The Taste Trail is a Prince Edward County initiative where growers, restaurants, and wineries commit to “farm-to-table” practices and promote locally-sourced ingredients.

If you visit these establishments, you can be sure you’re supporting local businesses and getting local tastes! There are more food trails in Ontario and we look forward to following them.

Discover an Ontario City

Of course, what would Ontario be without its big cities! There are many great cities in Ontario – all of which make for great places to visit.

Even if you have been to a city before, there is often more to do and see. We are big into city travel because we like discovering places – so we’ve got a good handle on Ontario cities to visit.

If you are into history, head for Kingston with its historic buildings, lake views, fun things to do and great waterfront hotels . If you want to learn more about Canada, a trip to Ottawa – the nation’s capital – is loaded with things to do like visiting Parliament Hill.

You can also enjoy the Rideau Canal in summer and winter. Here’s how to spend one day in Ottawa , if you’re interested!

There are other great Ontario cities to explore like Toronto with all its tourist attractions and great places to stay . That said, you should explore smaller centres like Guelph , London, Hamilton, Windsor, and Waterloo.

Even Barrie – which acts as kind of a gateway to northern Ontario – is worth a stop through. If there are any really great seasonal things to do in Ontario cities, we will mention them below in the right “season section”.

Dive into Ontario Historic Sites

Geographically speaking, much of what is now Ontario was once part of the oldest settled parts of what was Upper Canada.

So, it makes sense that Ontario has a lot of history to be discovered – from bloody battles to famous people, cultural highlights, engineering marvels, and more.

There are a lot of interesting places to visit in Ontario so we’ve listed many below. We’d recommend a visit to any of them.

Learning even a bit about the backstory of Ontario (and therefore about Canada) is not only interesting but really important to pass along. You can visit many of these places year-round and they change up what’s going on for different seasons!

• Fort Henry National Historic Site and Kingston Penitentiary in Kingston
• Locks 1-8 of the Rideau Canal in Ottawa
• Laura Secord Homestead in Queenston
• Sainte-Marie among the Hurons in Midland
• Brockville Railway Tunnel in Brockville
• Diefenbunker Museum – a cold-war era military bunker (a great Ottawa day trip )
• Fort William Historical Park in Thunder Bay
• Fort York National Historic Site right in downtown Toronto

Explore Ontario Museums + Galleries

If you want to stay indoors and take in some art or fascinating exhibits, an Ontario museum or gallery is a great place to do that.

Ontario is absolutely packed with museums on all different topics as well as art galleries that feature art from all over. Some places highlight works just done by Canadians!

A nice thing about these places to visit is that they are generally indoors which means they are good to visit at all times of the year.

Often, they have rotating exhibits or seasonal displays so you might find something different to explore if you ever want to visit a museum or gallery again another time.

Of course, the unofficial rule is usually that you can find major museums in the larger cities and small galleries in smaller towns.

This doesn’t mean the smaller ones aren’t as good. In fact, the smaller museums are usually on more local topics which is great if you want a deeper dive into an Ontario-related theme… like canoeing or boats!

Check out this very short list of great museums and galleries in Ontario:

• McMichael Canadian Art Collection in Vaughan
• The Royal Ontario Museum in Toronto
• The Aga Khan Museum in North York
• The Art Gallery of Ontario in Toronto
• Thousand Islands Boat Museum in Gananoque
• Bytown Museum in Ottawa
• Canadian Museum of Nature in Ottawa
• The Canadian Canoe Museum in Peterborough

Explore the Bonnechere Caves

Another unique thing to do in Ontario is to head out towards the Ottawa Valley near Eganville and back underground to explore the  Bonnechere Caves . 

This cave system was formed in the limestone millions of years ago and today serves as a fascinating place to explore on a guided tour. There are many fossils down there and as well as the river and trails around the area to make a day out of it.

The caves are open from May through to October so you can visit for more or less three seasons of the year with summer being the most popular (summer break, warm weather, etc).

They host numerous events throughout their season – you can even eat down there – so be sure to check out the website for more information.

Get to Know a Small Ontario Town

Ontario may have a bunch of nice cities to visit, but the province was built by small towns. There’s nothing like a visit to a tiny town in Ontario to provide you with a relaxing backdrop to shop, eat, and explore locally.

While some towns are more well-known than others for their history, architecture, river views, food and breweries, or shops, we like to think that each town has something to discover if you look hard enough.

We’ve found things to do in Gravenhurst and Huntsville that make for a nice visit at most times of the year!

We can’t talk about small towns in Ontario worth visiting without mentioning Elora for the famous Mill , Paris for the photogenic buildings, Almonte for the donuts and inventor of basketball (true story), and Campbellford for the largest Toonie !

There are obviously more and we will write a whole post in the future about great towns to explore. Many of which make for great day trips from Toronto !

Just so we’re on the same page: When you visit a small town in Ontario, be sure to not show up and be a “silly tourist”. Do your best to learn about the place and support the community by shopping locally or going to a local brewery, restaurant, or coffee shop… and not to McDonald’s.

Visit Manitoulin Island

Another top thing to do in Ontario is something that gets overlooked quite often: visit Manitoulin Island. Considered the largest freshwater island in the world, there are many things to do on this island in Northern Ontario in all seasons.

It should also be noted that the island is home to a number of Indigenous communities so it’s likely to be different (in a good way) from other places you are accustomed to visiting.

There is top hiking, camping, and fishing here – the land is so large that it itself has over 100 inland lakes.

You can also check out the Dark Sky Preserve at Gordon’s Park or appreciate Indigenous culture through art galleries and cultural centres. There are other points of interest like lighthouses to hike to, as well.

That said, Manitoulin is mainly known for nature. It’s a fairly remote place to explore in northern Ontario without going all the way up into Northern Ontario by car (shout out to Pickle Lake, Ontario).

To get to Manitoulin Island, you can take the ferry from Tobermory in the warmer seasons and/or you can drive there if you head for Sudbury and take the only land route on Highway 6. To learn more, you can check out the Manitoulin Island tourism website .

Enjoy an Ontario Brewery

If you are feeling thirsty and fancy a beverage, you are in luck: Ontario is home to a number of breweries and newer craft breweries that you can visit!

In fact, there are so many craft breweries in Ontario. Usually, “drinking craft beer” wouldn’t be a thing you’d tell people to do unless it was important.

Well, Ontario had a craft beer Renaissance in the early 2000s and now there are over 250 beer breweries all across the province. It seems like every time you return to a city or small town there’s another brewery that popped up for you to visit!

Breweries are great because they are indoors – making for nice winter visits. When it’s warmer out, Ontario breweries often have great patios to enjoy the weather!

Now, there are definitely more established breweries in Ontario and we’ll give credit where it’s due. You can head for Flying Monkeys in Barrie, Steam Whistle or Mill Street in Toronto, and  Creemore Springs in Creemore.

As for newer, craftier breweries, Sawdust City in Gravenhurst is great to visit as is Lake on the Mountain in Prince Edward County.

We also like Left Field Brewery in Toronto. We have posts on breweries in Guelph as well as breweries in Prince Edward County , and breweries in Kingston – and there are more coming!

Engage with Ontario Nature & Animals

Given that Ontario has a deep connection to nature, it’s only fitting that you have the opportunity to engage with and appreciate that nature (and particularly with the animals).

Luckily, there are many centres around the province that cater to doing just that – and they can usually be visited year-round!

You might want to visit the Kortright Centre for Conservation which has programming for adults and kids all about nature. There are also countless other conservation areas (many mentioned in this article) to visit which offer education on local plants and wildlife.

If you’re in the right season, you might be able to catch a migration like the massive Monarch butterfly migration that happens in Point Pelee National Park.

You can also go to the animals at various farms and sanctuaries like The Donkey Sanctuary of Canada near Guelph or Cedar Meadows Resort and Wildlife Park up in Timmins. These places are usually open year-round which makes visiting easy to do!

Learn About Indigenous Culture

Related to the point about Manitoulin Island, another unique thing to do that I (Eric) bet you haven’t thought of is to make it a point to learn about Indigenous culture in Ontario. There are many ways you can do this.

For a hands-on experience, head to Petroglyphs Provincial Park in the Kawarthas to learn about the people behind the largest known grouping of rock carvings in Canada.

You can head to Smiths Falls and set out on a guided canoe tour with Voyageur Canoe Tours as the guides touch on Indigenous history or visit the Ojibwe Cultural Foundation on Manitoulin Island to see the museum, art, and attend cultural events.

Check out our Events Page to browse more local events and their official websites.

If you’re really keen, there’s a museum/historical centre called the Kay-Nah-Chi-Wah-Nung Historical Centre which is located west of Thunder Bay (almost in Manitoba).

Known as the Manitou Mounds, this area is known for the ancient burial mounds and village sites that date back millennia. Generally speaking, you can visit Indigenous Tourism in Ontario to learn more.

Get Thrilled at Canada’s Wonderland

If you are looking for a thing to do in Ontario and want to be thrilled, head for Canada’s Wonderland ! This amusement park north of Toronto is actually really, really good.

Aside from the thrill rides and small attractions, the park has changed dramatically over the decades to include some roller coasters that are among the tallest and fastest in their category in the world. Just google “Leviathan” and tell us what you think!

The nice thing about Wonderland is that you can visit in three seasons (not winter) and there is something for the whole family.

In fact, you don’t even have to go on rides – the famous Wonderland Funnel Cake – a deep-fried batter loaded with ice cream, berries in sauce, and powdered sugar – might be reason enough to spend the money to get in.

Eric grew up not too far away so he spent many summer and fall evenings riding roller coasters as a kid. Good memories.

There’s also a water park which is popular in the summer. If you go, besides general admission, we’d recommend the “ Fast Lane ” Pass if you are short on time and/or don’t want to wait in the long lines.

For those looking for other amusement parks in Ontario, there are lots of Fall fairs that occur throughout the province (we will cover some in the Fall Section). If you’re close to Toronto, a trip to the Toronto Islands to go to Centreville Amusement Park is always a great activity to do with kids!

Attend a Sporting Event

Last, but certainly not least – if you are a local or a visitor to Ontario, a great way to experience the province is through a sporting event.

There are sports in all seasons and Ontario has it all: hockey ( Leafs and Sens ) and basketball ( Raptors ) in fall through spring, baseball (the Blue Jays ) in spring through fall, Canadian football (yes, it’s different than American football) in the fall, major league soccer, lacrosse, and much more.

Of course, many of the sports teams are centred in Toronto but you can catch professional sports in Hamilton and Ottawa, too. You can also catch a junior hockey game in smaller cities and towns.

Check out Kingston for the Frontenacs , Barrie for the Colts , Guelph for the Storm , and London for the Knights , just to name a few. Usually, junior hockey is good hockey and much, much cheaper than tickets to a Leafs game!

Related Articles

There is plenty to do and see in Ontario any time of the year. Here are some more guides to help you explore no matter the temperature outside!

• Things to Do in Ontario in Summer
• Things to Do in Ontario in Winter

And there you have it – a rundown of ideas on the best things to do in Ontario. There are plenty more things to do and see in Ontario and we’ll continue to add to this post by season so it’s even more useful! Be sure to get in touch if there’s something else we should check out!

As always, Keep Exploring, eh? – E&L

Pin it for later!

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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Toronto   Travel Guide

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17 Best Things to Do in Toronto, Canada

Toronto is filled with many exhilarating experiences, just waiting to be discovered. Kick-start your journey by indulging in the breathtaking bird's-eye view from the iconic CN Tower observation decks – a must-visit attraction. Afterward, you can

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Toronto Islands Toronto Islands free

When you need a break from the hustle and bustle of Canada's biggest city, you can hop on a quick, 15-minute ferry ride to the Toronto Islands. Amidst the towering skyscrapers of the city's mainland, this cluster of islands and islets provides a refreshing green oasis. The three interconnected islands – Centre, Ward's, and Algonquin – eliminate the need for constant boat transfers, allowing you to explore the entire area seamlessly. Each of these main islands offers a distinct experience, ensuring there is something unique to discover every time.

Centre Island lives up to its name by offering a variety of attractions, including picnic areas, beaches, sporting rentals and the Centreville Amusement Park. This park boasts more than 30 rides, a petting zoo and a charming boating lagoon. On the other hand, Ward and Algonquin provide a more relaxed atmosphere adorned with picturesque 1920s-style cottages and English gardens.

High Park High Park free

High Park is a true gem in the heart of Toronto, and it's no wonder it's often considered a favorite among locals and visitors alike. Spanning around 400 acres, this expansive park offers a delightful escape from the bustling city and a sanctuary of natural beauty.

One of the highlights of High Park is its lush green spaces and well-maintained gardens. Usually, during the spring, the park boasts an impressive collection of cherry blossom trees, which bloom in stunning colors, attracting crowds of admirers. High Park offers diverse habitats for nature enthusiasts, including serene ponds, wooded areas and even a small zoo. One of the park's most beloved features is Grenadier Pond, a calm body of water where visitors can enjoy fishing or unwind by its shores.

CN Tower CN Tower

Rising majestically amidst Toronto's stunning skyline, the CN Tower stands at an impressive height of 1,815 feet. The American Society of Civil Engineers hailed it as one of the Seven Wonders of the Modern World. Beyond its iconic stature, the tower offers unparalleled panoramic views of the city below, creating a breathtaking vantage point for visitors.

You'll take an elevator to reach the four observation areas available to visitors, including the Glass Floor room (at 1,122 feet), the Main Observation Level (at 1,136 feet), the revolving 360 The Restaurant (at 1,150 feet) and the SkyPod, at 1,465 feet, one of the highest public observation areas in the world. Meanwhile, the EdgeWalk allows the daring to experience the world's highest hands-free external walk on a building. Connected via harness, participants can take a walk on a 5-foot-wide ledge encircling the top of the tower's main pod 116 stories above the ground. Tickets for the EdgeWalk start at of CA$199 (about $150) per person ages 13 and older also includes a keepsake video, printed photos, a certificate of achievement and a ticket to re-enter the tower.

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St. Lawrence Market St. Lawrence Market free

U.S. News Insider Tip: Stop by St. Urbain Bagels, where fresh wood-fired Montreal-style bagels are made daily. Don't forget to savor the bakery's irresistible, flaky pastry boureka. – Suzanna Alsayed

Nestled within Toronto's historic Old Town, St. Lawrence Market has played numerous roles since its inception in the 19th century. Evolving from a marketplace, it has served as a vibrant social hub and even housed the City Hall. The market tantalizes visitors with various delectable delights, ranging from gourmet cured meats to intricately handcrafted jewelry. The St. Lawrence Market comprises three distinct buildings: the South Market, the North Market and the illustrious St. Lawrence Hall.

Distillery District Distillery District free

U.S. News Insider Tip: The Distillery District uniquely appeals to those on first dates, with couples often capturing precious moments in front of the heart-shaped sculpture adorning its entrance. – Suzanna Alsayed

In the early 1800s, the waterfront area of Toronto housed the esteemed Gooderham and Worts Distillery, which stood as Canada's largest distilling company. Fast-forward to the present day, and this historic neighborhood has transformed into a charming pedestrian-only enclave, surrounded by Victorian buildings and cobblestone pathways once traversed by horse-drawn carriages. Today, it brims with a vibrant tapestry of art galleries, performance venues, inviting cafes, tantalizing restaurants, patios and even a brewery. This captivating locale offers a genuine glimpse into Toronto's rich past.

Harbourfront Centre Harbourfront Centre free

Tucked away on the scenic banks of Lake Ontario, this expansive 10-acre attraction has undergone a remarkable transformation, evolving from a neglected shipping terminal into a vibrant and upscale neighborhood. Once desolate warehouses have been revitalized, now housing captivating theaters and art galleries that exude a similar ambiance to renowned waterfront destinations like San Francisco 's Pier 39 and Baltimore's Inner Harbor .

The area boasts a myriad of culinary delights with numerous eateries to satisfy diverse palates. Serene pockets of green space dot the landscape, including the esteemed Toronto Music Garden, a harmonious collaboration shaped partly by the renowned cellist Yo Yo Ma. And if you're around during the summer, you can kick back on Sugar Beach, a former parking lot transformed into an urban beach.

Kensington Market Kensington Market free

For those who embrace a touch of vibrant chaos, Kensington Market is a captivating destination when visiting Toronto. Once a thriving Jewish neighborhood, this eclectic market began in the 1920s when families set up stands outside their homes to trade goods. Over time, it has evolved into a bustling marketplace that has expanded in size and cultural diversity.

This neighborhood is a hub for diverse culinary delights, unique products and cultural experiences. Wandering through the streets of Kensington Market, you'll encounter a tapestry of shops and restaurants offering various goods from Europe. For residents, this area provides a down-to-earth experience and serves as a compelling counterpoint to the luxurious aspects of Toronto, showcasing the city's authentic and less opulent side.

Hockey Hall of Fame Hockey Hall of Fame

No visit to Toronto, or even Canada in general, would be complete without immersing yourself in the world of hockey. Although hockey may not be the country's official sport, it holds an almost sacred status as the unofficial national pastime. If you have the chance, you should try to join the thousands of passionate Torontonians as they gather at Scotiabank Arena to cheer on the beloved Toronto Maple Leafs. Even if you visit during the summer months, you can still satisfy your hockey cravings by visiting the Hockey Hall of Fame, conveniently located just a block away from Union Station.

Spanning an impressive 65,000 square feet, the Hockey Hall of Fame is a treasure trove of memorabilia. Delve into the sport's rich history as you encounter iconic artifacts, including the original Stanley Cup, Max Bentley's cherished stick, and Terry Sawchuk's legendary goalie gear. As you explore the exhibits, take advantage of the opportunity to step into a faithful reproduction of the Montreal Canadiens locker room and marvel at the Puck Wall, adorned with more than 1,000 pucks gathered from tournaments worldwide.

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Casa Loma Casa Loma

U.S. News Insider Tip: Experience the magic of a live orchestra at Casa Loma's gardens during its Symphony in the Gardens event, which takes place Monday evenings from June to September. – Suzanna Alsayed

Are you a fan of castles? So was Sir Henry Pellatt, a former soldier whose lifelong aspiration was to build a majestic castle overlooking the city of Toronto. Thus, the magnificent Casa Loma came into existence in 1914, a sprawling estate comprising 98 rooms. This architectural marvel took nearly three years to construct, requiring a staggering investment of more than $3.5 million.

Toronto Zoo Toronto Zoo

According to travelers, the Toronto Zoo is a hit with kids (and most adults). This sprawling facility in Scarborough is one of the largest zoos in the world, with more than 6 miles of walking trails spread over 700 acres and 3,000 animals (representing more than 300 species) calling this place home. The zoo is separated into seven geographic regions, including the Tundra Trek, Eurasia Wilds and an African Rainforest Pavilion. There are also a plethora of seasonal activities to engage in. Along with a ropes course, there's a carousel and the Zoomobile Ride, which takes you through some of the park's various regions, including the Tundra Trek, the Canadian Domain and Eurasia. The Discovery Zone is also a top attraction for families, housing a 2-acre water play area, theater and an interactive wildlife experience designed for kids.

Recent visitors were impressed with the zoo, but warned that it's large, so you'll need to wear proper walking shoes. The ticket prices were a common gripe among reviewers, as was the zoo's location – there are no subway stations nearby, but the No. 86A bus route stops close to the main entrance. Others complained of the expensive food prices (hence, if you are on a budget, you may want to bring your food for a picnic).

Royal Ontario Museum (The ROM) Royal Ontario Museum (The ROM)

Positioned on the northern edge of the University of Toronto campus, the Royal Ontario Museum (also referred to as the "ROM") is a must-visit for avid history enthusiasts. Since its establishment in 1914, the ROM has accumulated more than 13 million artifacts, making it Canada's largest museum of world cultures and natural history. Across its 40 gallery and exhibition spaces, the museum displays diverse relics, including dinosaur bones, ancient Roman sculptures, Chinese temple art, an exhibit on Canada's First Nations and other cultural objects from various parts of the world.

Careful planning is advised to make the most of your time here, as recent visitors note that the Royal Ontario Museum offers such a wealth of exhibits that you might easily lose track of time. However, travelers unanimously agree that the museum's diverse array of exhibits is a true treasure, making every minute spent there worthwhile. Families traveling with children need not worry about keeping the little ones engaged, as the ROM provides interactive experiences. Kids can explore the hands-on gallery to touch snakeskin, examine shark jaws up close, and even venture into a fox's den. The CIBC Discovery Gallery also allows youngsters to dress up in costumes and embark on exciting "dinosaur" bone excavations.

Nathan Phillips Square Nathan Phillips Square free

Nathan Phillips Square is a must-visit destination in Toronto. Located in the heart of downtown, this bustling public square – which was named in honor of a former Toronto mayor – offers a variety of experiences that make it a popular spot for locals and tourists alike.

The centrepiece of Nathan Phillips Square is the striking Toronto City Hall, an architectural masterpiece that showcases modernist design. Its distinctive curved towers and the elevated walkway known as the "podium roof" make it a prominent landmark on the city skyline. Visitors are encouraged to explore the City Hall's public spaces, including the council chambers and the mayor's office, to see Toronto's governance in action.

Ontario Science Centre Ontario Science Centre

For an immersive and engaging learning experience that goes beyond reading plaques, look no further than the Ontario Science Centre. This remarkable facility offers a multitude of interactive exhibits designed to maximize educational opportunities for visitors of all ages. Step into the pilot's seat of a rocket chair, embark on a cosmic journey in the city's public planetarium and showcase your dance moves on a floor that converts energy into mesmerizing light displays. Delve into the Living Earth experience and feel the touch of a tornado or catch a glimpse of your future self with the Amazing Aging Machine. Before exploring, check the information area for any special events that day. The on-site IMAX theater screens various educational films, and the museum regularly presents captivating demonstrations on topics ranging from electricity to papermaking.

Recent visitors said that because there's so much to do, it's possible to spend the entire day at the Ontario Science Centre. To make the most of your visit, it is recommended to plan and select the exhibits you wish to see in advance. This strategic approach will help you optimize your time and ensure you get to all the highlights. While most reviewers agreed a visit here is worthwhile if you've got young kids in tow, others found the science center to be lacking for teens and adults.

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Fort York Fort York free

Fort York is prominent on the sightseeing itineraries of many tourists and history enthusiasts. Established in 1793, it is Toronto's most significant historical site, safeguarding the city from the late 18th century until the conclusion of World War II. Moreover, it serves as the birthplace of modern-day Toronto, as the Lieutenant-Governor of Upper Canada relocated the capital from the border town of Niagara due to nearby war conflicts. Visitors can now explore the quarters of soldiers and officers, observe cannon firings and military drills and even participate in flag raisings.

As stated by recent visitors, you'll love this site if you're into history. According to select reviewers, you may want to skip Fort York if you don't consider yourself a history or military aficionado. While many acknowledged that the site was incredibly well-preserved and offered a cool glimpse into the past lives of the soldiers who used to live there, some didn't find it to be as stimulating as other attractions.

Ripley's Aquarium of Canada Ripley's Aquarium of Canada

Immerse yourself in a mesmerizing underwater world at Ripley's Aquarium of Canada. From the moment you step inside, you'll be captivated by the incredible marine life and interactive exhibits that await you.

One of the standout features of this aquarium is its sheer size and diversity. With more than 20,000 aquatic animals representing more than 450 species, there's something to fascinate visitors of all ages. The variety of marine life is truly astounding, from graceful sharks and majestic rays to colourful tropical fish and playful sea turtles.

Yorkdale Shopping Mall Yorkdale Shopping Mall free

Yorkdale Mall is a premier shopping destination that attracts locals and tourists alike. Here, you'll find a wide selection of high-end and luxury brands, popular retailers and diverse dining options. With more than 250 stores, including flagship stores and exclusive boutiques, Yorkdale Mall is a shopper's paradise.

The mall also hosts additional attractions and entertainment options, including a movie theater, art installations, interactive exhibits and unique pop-up experiences.

Canada's Wonderland Canada's Wonderland

Canada's Wonderland is an amusement park located outside Toronto that offers many attractions and activities across more than 200 acres, making it a must-visit destination for thrill-seekers and families alike.

One of the main reasons to visit Canada's Wonderland is its incredible collection of exhilarating rides. Thrill-seekers can brave the intense drops and loops of rides like Leviathan, Behemoth and Ghoster Coaster. At the same time, those seeking a milder adventure can enjoy the diverse selection of family rides, the 20-acre Splash Works water park and other attractions throughout the park.

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10 Breathtaking fall road trip ideas in Ontario to enjoy the beauty of the season

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Fall is a magical time in Ontario when our sprawling forests and green spaces transform into a mesmerizing gradient of warm reds, oranges, and yellows. 

Late September through mid-October is the golden window for a scenic road trip combining "leaf peeping," cherished moments with loved ones, and the joy of discovering new corners of our province. 

From the sparkling lake shores of Muskoka to Algonquin Park, bursting with life and history, these routes promise breathtaking views and fun for the whole family. Here are ten must-see destinations to catch nature’s paintbrush in full swing. 

1. Algonquin Provincial Park:

Roughly 262 kilometres north of Toronto, Algonquin Park is the oldest provincial park in Canada, dating back to 1893. From plants, fish, reptiles, mammals, and birds, it's home to various ecosystems, including maple forests that burst into vibrant colours during the fall, making it the ultimate fall road trip destination.

2. Muskoka Region:

Muskoka has been a popular vacation destination for over a century. The area is characterized by its beautiful lakes, charming cottages, and vibrant autumn foliage, just a quick 200-kilometre trip north from the GTA.

3. Niagara Parkway:

The Niagara Parkway is a fall drive destination you don’t want to miss. It stretches along the Niagara River, connecting Niagara Falls to Niagara-on-the-Lake. Approximately an hour and a half from Toronto, the parkway boasts stunning views of the river, gorge, and surrounding vineyards.

4. Prince Edward County:

Often referred to as the "Napa of the North," Prince Edward County is home to numerous wineries you’ll want to make time for on your scenic fall road trip to the county. Besides wine, the whole family will swoon over the scenic countryside and Lake Ontario shoreline. If you're heading to PEC, budget a few hours from Toronto or consider an overnight stay.

5. Bruce Peninsula National Park:

For a fall drive with a serious wow factor, look no further than the Bruce Peninsula—known for its dramatic cliffs, clear blue waters, and diverse flora. The park's iconic Grotto is a must-visit natural cave formation near the shoreline that swimmers flock to every summer. If you travel there early enough this fall, you just may be able to take a dip on a warm fall day! This destination is a slightly longer four to five hours from the Toronto area.

6. Thousand Islands Parkway:

In a world where embellishments are the norm, you’ll be surprised to learn that The Thousand Islands region has over 1,800 islands! A fantastic choice for a fall road trip, the Parkway offers picturesque views of these islands and the St. Lawrence River, both incredibly stunning in autumn.

7. Kawartha Lakes:

Fun fact: The Kawartha Lakes region is home to over 250 lakes, making it a popular destination for boating and fishing enthusiasts. If you choose the Kawarthas for your fall adventures, many boat rental places remain open (try Buckeye Boat Rentals and Eganridge Resort). The calm waters and heavily wooded landscapes are truly captivating in the fall, so pack a waterproof phone holder for all the Instagrammable views.

8. Gatineau Park:

While Gatineau Park is in Quebec, it's just a 20-minute drive from Ottawa. The park is famous for its stunning fall foliage, with Sugar Maple trees stealing the show, but it is also popular with locals and visitors alike for its lakes, beaches, wildlife, and hiking trails.

9. The Blue Mountains:

You may know it as “Blue Mountain,” but “The Blue Mountains”—as the town is technically named— are part of the Niagara Escarpment, and the region is a popular destination for outdoor activities like hiking and skiing. In the fall, the landscape is ablaze with breathtaking fall colours you can enjoy from just about anywhere—we suggest taking it in from an apple orchard or local winery.

10. Highway 60 Corridor (between Huntsville and Whitney):

This stretch of highway within Algonquin Park will leave you slack-jawed, thanks to the generous display of seemingly endless fall foliage. About three hours north of Toronto, The Highway 60 Corridor is one to add to your fall drive list due to how famous it is for its "leaf peeping" opportunities.

All that’s left to do is to prepare a playlist with something on it for everyone and some delicious snacks! Drive safely and enjoy your scenic fall drive.

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