places to visit in june ontario

19 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Ontario

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

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

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

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

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

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

1. Niagara Falls

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Visiting Wonderland is an easy day trip from Toronto .

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

More Related Articles on PlanetWare.com

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

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Things to do in Ontario in June

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Looking for a different month?

June is a good time to visit Ontario . The weather is usually very warm, with temperatures ranging from 57—88°F (14—31°C).

Ontario has plenty to offer for visitors of all ages and interests. In this article, we tell you the top things to see and do for your June trip to Ontario. Get inspired by the events, activities, attractions, and experiences unique to June. We’ll let you know where to explore events based on your interests, whether that’s food, culture, art, music, sport or others.

We’ll let you know everything you need to prepare for the weather in Ontario in June. Learn about what to wear and pack for your trip, the average temperatures throughout June, temperature changes from morning to evening and much more.

Table of contents

• Experiences
• Weather and what to wear
• Attractions

Best events and things to do in Ontario in June

Top experiences in june, holidays in ontario in june.

There are no holidays in Ontario in June

Other notable holidays

• Cinco de Mayo ( May 5 )
• Mother's Day ( May 12 )
• Memorial Day ( May 27 )
• Decoration Day ( May 27 )
• Weather in Ontario in June

Temperatures on an average day in Ontario in June

The average temperature in Ontario in June for a typical day ranges from a high of 88°F (31°C) to a low of 57°F (14°C). Some would describe it as very warm.

For comparison, the hottest month in Ontario , August, has days with highs of 94°F (34°C) and lows of 65°F (19°C). The coldest month, December has days with highs of 64°F (18°C) and lows of 43°F (6°C). This graph shows how an average day looks like in Ontario in June based on historical data.

Visiting Ontario? See our Ontario Trip Planner.

Historical temperature average in June

General weather summary, what to wear in june, best attractions for ontario in june.

Popular road trips from Ontario

What's the weather like in ontario.

It depends on when you visit! We've compiled data from NASA on what the weather is like in Ontario for each month of the year: see the links below for more information.

• Weather in Ontario in January
• Weather in Ontario in February
• Weather in Ontario in March
• Weather in Ontario in April
• Weather in Ontario in May
• Weather in Ontario in July
• Weather in Ontario in August
• Weather in Ontario in September
• Weather in Ontario in October
• Weather in Ontario in November
• Weather in Ontario in December

All road trips from Ontario

• Ontario to Las Vegas drive
• Ontario to San Diego drive
• Ontario to San Francisco drive
• Ontario to Greater Palm Springs drive
• Ontario to Santa Barbara drive
• Ontario to Carlsbad drive
• Ontario to Phoenix drive
• Ontario to Tucson drive
• Ontario to Monterey drive
• Ontario to Grand Canyon National Park drive
• Ontario to Yosemite National Park drive
• Ontario to Malibu drive
• Ontario to Palm Springs drive
• Ontario to Santa Clarita drive
• Ontario to Salt Lake City drive
• Ontario to Flagstaff drive
• Ontario to Sacramento drive
• Ontario to Laughlin drive
• Ontario to Santa Cruz drive
• Ontario to San Jose drive
• Ontario to Puerto Vallarta drive
• Ontario to Cabo San Lucas drive
• Ontario to Reno drive
• Ontario to San Luis Obispo drive
• Ontario to Ventura drive
• Ontario to Scottsdale drive
• Ontario to Mammoth Lakes drive
• Ontario to Bakersfield drive
• Ontario to Yuma drive
• Ontario to Santa Rosa drive

Explore nearby places

• Rancho Cucamonga
• Chino Hills
• Diamond Bar
• Mount Baldy
• the Jurupa Valley
• Bloomington
• Rowland Heights
• Yorba Linda
• Lytle Creek
• West Covina

All related maps of Ontario

• Map of Ontario
• Map of Upland
• Map of Montclair
• Map of Chino
• Map of Claremont
• Map of Rancho Cucamonga
• Map of Alta Loma
• Map of Pomona
• Map of La Verne
• Map of Chino Hills
• Map of Eastvale
• Map of Etiwanda
• Map of San Dimas
• Map of Norco
• Map of Diamond Bar
• Map of Walnut
• Map of Mount Baldy
• Map of the Jurupa Valley
• Map of Fontana
• Map of Glendora
• Map of Corona
• Map of Covina
• Map of Bloomington
• Map of Azusa
• Map of Rowland Heights
• Map of Yorba Linda
• Map of Rialto
• Map of Lytle Creek
• Map of Irwindale
• Map of West Covina
• Map of Riverside

Ontario throughout the year

• Ontario in January
• Ontario in February
• Ontario in March
• Ontario in April
• Ontario in May
• Ontario in June
• Ontario in July
• Ontario in August
• Ontario in September
• Ontario in October
• Ontario in November
• Ontario in December

Looking for day-by-day itineraries in Ontario?

Get inspired for your trip to Ontario with our curated itineraries that are jam-packed with popular attractions everyday! Check them out here:

• 1-Day Ontario Itinerary

• Itinerary + map in one view
• Live collaboration
• Auto-import hotels and reservations
• Optimize your route
• Offline access on mobile
• See time and distance between all your places

Lennox-Addington | Joe Gilker @darkskyviewing @naturallylennoxaddington

Things to do in Ontario

There’s an ever-expanding world of unforgettable and unexpected things to see and do in Ontario. Rediscover iconic experiences and reignite your wanderlust with surprising sights, sounds and flavours. Embrace a new adventure in Canada’s most dynamic province.

Explore all that Ontario has to offer

• Arts and cultural experiences
• Entertainment and shopping
• Family activities
• Food and drink
• Nature and relaxation
• Outdoor and recreation

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Gardens and conservatories

Food trails and festivals

Outdoor adrenaline

Indigenous experiences

Francophone experiences

Museums and heritage sites

Art galleries and experiences

Games and activities

Science and education

Animal parks and aquariums

Theatre, film and literature

Foodie destinations

Breweries, cideries and distilleries

Parks and nature viewing

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Amazing Places to Visit in Ontario This Summer

Ontario is filled with great places to visit this summer, ranging from stunning provincial parks to incredibly charming towns. During the summer, the weather is perfect for swimming and hiking, making it a great time to explore nature destinations in Ontario.

I love to adventure as much as I can during the summer to take advantage of the gorgeous weather! While there are plenty of amazing things to do in Ontario during summer, I tend to visit parks and beaches mostly during the season.

Continue reading to discover the best places in Ontario to visit this summer!

**Please note that this blog post uses affiliate links. If you make a purchase through my link, I will receive a small commission at no cost to you.

Table of Contents

The Best Places to Visit in Ontario during Summer

Muskoka is definitely one of the most stunning summer destinations in Ontario. The area is known for its beautiful lakes, the craft beer scene, shopping, and hiking trails. Some visit as a day trip from Toronto and others head out for a weekend getaway. It is a popular place to book a campsite or rent a cabin to take full advantage of the beautiful area.

Wasaga Beach

Wasaga is home to the longest freshwater beach in the world. It is a popular summer destination for those wanting to relax at the beach and have a few drinks! The beach looks immaculate any time during the day and is definitely one of the most-visited places during the summer in Ontario.

Presqu’ile Provincial Park

Located just off of the highway is Presqu’ile Provincial Park. This park is a great spot for those looking for an escape from the city. Visitors set up at a picnic table and enjoy the beautiful park. It is located right on the water with many places to swim. There’s even a neat lighthouse at the edge of the water!

Inglis Falls

Ontario is filled with incredible waterfalls and Inglis Falls is definitely one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Southern Ontario ! Located within Inglis Falls Conservation Area, the waterfall drops over an 18-meter cliff and is a cascading type fall. The well-maintained paths are great to explore the surrounding nature. It is a great spot to take the family for a day in nature and a picnic!

Niagara-on-the-Lake

During the summer season, you will surely find me outside on patios or visiting local wineries. Niagara-on-the-Lake is a great wine destination in the province, with a variety of vineyards and wineries conveniently located near one another. During the summer, you can go on a bike wine tour, visiting many wineries, and taste delicious wine. Within the town, you stay at one of the dreamy boutique accommodations and try out the food at local restaurants!

Lake Superior Provincial Park

Lake Superior Provincial Park is an amazing place to visit this summer in Ontario due to the lake and forested trails. Within the large park, you can swim, hike, canoe, and partake in many more outdoor activities. There are many hiking trails for great walks through the forest with great views of the lake! It is located near the city of Sault Ste. Marie and is one of the best places in Northwestern Ontario to visit in the summer.

Arrowhead Provincial Park

Arrowhead Provincial Park is a beautiful park located near Huntsville, Ontario. It is well-known for amazing hiking trails, camping, and canoeing. Summer is a great time to visit the park as the weather is amazing to spend the day outdoors. It can get busy during the summer, so opt to visit on weekdays or early in the day.

Check out places to stay in Huntsvill e!

Canada’s Wonderland

Canada’s Wonderland is one of the most popular places to visit during the summer. It is the biggest amusement park in Ontario, featuring many different roller coasters and rides for the whole family. While tickets can be fairly steep, it is worth visiting at least once in your life. The park also hosts a number of fun events , including a beer and BBQ fest, which is lots of fun!

Bruce Peninsula National Park

Bruce Peninsula National Park is one of the best places to visit in Ontario during the summer. With the warm weather, it’s a great place to get lost in nature for a day or a weekend getaway. Between the amazing hikes and views of Georgian Bay, you won’t want to leave!

In the nearby town of Tobermory, there are great local shops and restaurants open during the summer. From the town, you can take a boat to Fathom Five National Marine Park to explore another stunning park that is a must-visit!

Places to stay near Bruce Peninsula National Park: Bruce Anchor Motel and Cottage Rentals | Adventure the Bruce Inn | Grandview Motel | …and more!

Kingston boasts four Rembrandt paintings, two film festivals, and one vibrant downtown shopping scene. Home to Ontario’s oldest public market and Canada’s hippest live music scene, Kingston is a walkable city, where hidden alleyways contain antique markets and restaurant patios. With dozens of museums and historic sites, and dozens more unique shopping and dining experiences, Kingston offers you something old and something new around every corner.

Learn more about Kingston:  https://www.visitkingston.ca/

Places to stay in Kingston: Best Western | Four Points by Sheraton | …and more!

Sandbanks Dunes Beach

Sandbanks Dunes Beach offers a stunning view of Lake Ontario. I really enjoyed visiting the beach with a picnic after an afternoon winery tour to take in the sunrise. It is a beach frequented by those wishing to escape from the city, as it’s the prettiest beach near downtown Toronto.

Toronto Islands

Toronto Islands is definitely one of the best places to visit in Ontario during Summer. To get there, there are both water ferries and taxis available for hire. Once you arrive at the island, there are a lot of different things to explore.

There is Centreville Theme Park for all sorts of fun including a wooden roller coaster. If you’re looking for an interesting time, visit Hanlan’s Point Beach – but beware, clothing is optional at Hanlan’s.

A popular place to visit on the islands is Ward’s. Most weekends you’ll find pickup soccer or volleyball around the area. There’s always a drink or two and some music nearby as well!

Prince Edward County

Prince Edward County is one of the most amazing places to visit on a day trip from Toronto as it is only about 2-hours away from the downtown core. On a trip to the county, you can visit two parks – Sandbanks Provincial Park and Presqu’ile Provincial Park. Both offer great hiking trails and stunning views of the water.

Prince Edward County is known for wineries and vineyards. With the beautiful summer weather, plenty of people take advantage of the outdoors and visit some of the 40 wineries in the area! Most places offer small eats to enjoy while you taste a range of different wines.

Hamilton is one of the best places in Ontario to visit this summer due to the 100+ waterfalls around the area, yummy restaurants, and amazing nature hikes. Conveniently located near the city of Toronto, it makes for a great day trip from the city.

Some of the best waterfalls to visit in summer in Hamilton include:

• Albion Falls
• Webster Falls

Head to the downtown area to explore the charming boutiques and restaurants. There are also plenty of bars and clubs in the area too!

Places to stay in Hamilton: Sandman Hotel | Homewood Suites | Days Inn | …and More!

Algonquin Provincial Park

Algonquin Provincial Park is an amazing place to visit in Ontario in the summer. The park covers over 7,500 square kilometres and boasts great hikes, fishing, canoeing, kayaking, and much more. It is one of the most popular places to go portaging and camping!

Elora Gorge

The Elora Gorge is a popular place to visit in the summer for tubing, swimming, and hiking. Here, there are very tall limestone cliffs with a pretty waterfall plunging over the edge. The swimming area is visited by people from all over Southern Ontario and is a must-visit during the summer.

Crystal Beach

Crystal Beach is one of the most beautiful beaches I’ve visited in Southern Ontario. The waters are crystal clear and the sand is very white. As it’s located quite close to Niagara Falls, it’s a great place to visit on a weekend getaway to the area!

Toronto is definitely a great destination in Ontario to visit during summer as the city is lively and full of events. Locals and visitors alike love to explore High Park for scenic walks and picnics, along with visiting the shops along King Street or Queen Street. During the summer, it’s a great time to go bar-hopping and visiting one of the many patios in the city for a drink.

Things to do in Toronto: Buffet Dinner Cruise | Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tour | Helicopter Tour | …and more!

Blue Mountains

Another one of the best places to visit in Ontario during the summer is Blue Mountain Resort near Collingwood! Many people don’t think to visit during the summer as it’s typically known as a ski and snowboarding destination. But, there are plenty of hiking trails in the area!

It’s a perfect time of the year to visit for golfing or a spa getaway. Better yet, the summer season offers discounted rates and perfect temperatures to spend the day outside exploring the area.

Check out places to stay in Blue Mountains!

Niagara Falls

Niagara Falls is a great place to visit in the summer, but can definitely be busy during peak tourist season. During this time, gardens boast beautiful flowers and there are plenty of events around Clifton Hill. It’s a great time to visit the arcade, haunted houses, and other attractions while snacking on soft-serve ice cream!

Things to Do in Niagara Falls: Helicopter Tour | Skylon Tower Observation Deck | Niagara SkyWheel

Places to stay in Niagara Falls: Fallsview Hotel and Suites | Niagara Falls Marriott | Sheraton Fallsview Hotel | …and more!

Scarborough Bluffs

Located a short drive from downtown Toronto, Scarborough Bluffs is a great place to enjoy stunning views of the lake and immerse yourself in nature. On a trip here, visitors can enjoy a variety of activities, including:

• Adventuring around the waterfront paths
• Relaxing at the beach
• Having a picnic
• Canoeing or kayaking
• Photography

Ottawa is one of the best places in Ontario to visit in summer due to the stunning photogenic buildings and great events throughout the city. Outdoor markets are lively during this season, with ByWard Market welcoming locals and tourists alike. Visitors can explore the city on foot, enjoy outdoor music, or even take a cruise along Rideau Canal.

Places to stay in Ottawa: Holiday Inn Express & Suites | Sandman Signature Ottawa Airport Hotel | Fairmont Chateau Laurier | …and more!

Book a Summer Activity in Ontario

Book your hotel stay.

Summer is a perfect time to visit amazing places in Ontario. Be sure to visit plenty of nature-filled places to take advantage of the warm weather. I for one, tend to put off visiting places during this time then completely regret it once the cold winter hits! You bet you’ll find me out and about for most of this upcoming summer!

What are your top places to visit in Ontario during summer? Let me know in the comments!

Be sure to Pin this post for later!

You might also like:

• Breathtaking Places to Visit in Ontario This Fall
• 9 Stunning Waterfalls to Visit in Southern Ontario
• Inglis Falls: The Most Beautiful Waterfall in Grey County, Ontario
• One Day in Montréal: How to Spend an Amazing Day Exploring Highlights
• A Scenic Day Trip to Prince Edward County
• A Day Trip Guide to Bruce Peninsula National Park
• Best Fall Hikes Near Toronto

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18 comments.

Steve Collins

Cant wait to get back out for weekend day trips all around the province

deventuretime

Great list, I didn’t know there were so many things to do in Ontario! I’d love to visit Algonquin Provincial Park and Hamilton to check out the waterfalls.

The waterfalls are so amazing!!!

Wow, there are so many beautiful spots in Ontario. Bruce Peninsula National Park looks absolutely beautiful. I love how blue the water is. I also still need to visit Niagara Falls at some point. It looks so breathtaking! 🙂

Both such amazing places! Hope you can visit soon! 😀

This is giving me some great ideas for when I hopefully get over to Ontario this summer to visit family. Bruce Peninsula has been on the list for a while but I think I added a few other places too

Bruce Peninsula is my favourite place in Ontario! So amazing!

Looks like Ontario has a lot to offer for everyone! The Niagara Falls are definitely on first place for me but I’d also love to visit the big cities like Toronto and Ottawa 🙂 Great post!

Niagara Falls is so amazing! 🙂

Hopefully I’m able to travel back home to Ontario this summer and check off some of these places from my list! Canada is beautiful during the summer that’s for sure.

I hope you can too! 🙂

Rachel - Rays of Adventure

Looks great! I’m really hoping to go to Canada next year and Ontario is now at the top of my list. Thanks for sharing!

Hope you have a great time!

I used to adventure in Ontario when I grew up in Michigan. It’s gorgeous but I haven’t been there in years. I’d love to check out some of these places when the border opens up again. Beautiful choices of outdoor adventures.

It really is an amazing place to explore in the summer. So many beautiful waterfalls and hikes!

I am so new to most of these places. All I knew about Ontario was Niagara on the lake. This Canadian destination has so much to explore. Thanks for sharing this knowledge.

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37 Amazing Things To Do In Ontario In The Summer For Your Bucket List

Summer time guys! Summer feels like it just started and summer time means finally spending more time outdoors! It may be overwhelming figuring out where to go and what to do but luckily I’ve put together this guide of 35+ things to do in Ontario in the summer to help you plan out your summer adventures. 

#1 Take in a play at the Stratford Festival

There are some Shakespeare plays on the schedule every single summer but there’s also plenty of other plays to check out. Once you’ve taken in a play or 2, do stick around in the town. There’s plenty to see and do and it definitely counts as an excellent weekend getaway from Toronto!

#2 Eat Kawartha Ice Cream

Kawartha ice cream is one of those fundamental summer things. It’s a locally produced ice cream in Ontario and comes in a number of flavours. They’ve only recently gotten into stores but have been around for 75 years in lots of little small towns around the province. The company has 10 stores themselves but their products are sold elsewhere so you can definitely still try them even if they’re not in your area. There’s plenty of flavours like I said but my recommendation is the black raspberry thunder so head to a location where they sell Kawartha ice cream and enjoy it on a hot summer day!

#3 Hike the flower pots and the Grotto and see the stunningly blue waters of Tobermory

Tobermory is one of those amazing places in Ontario that you just can’t explain. Between the Bruce Peninsula National Park and the Fathom Five National Marine Park there’s an incredible amount of nature to take in and at minimum you should dedicate a weekend to a trip up here. It’s located about 4 hours north of Toronto and you could theoretically do it as a day trip and if that’s the only way for you to see this part of Ontario then definitely do it but I do recommend the weekend trip. You will not regret it! Some highlights including taking a boat over to Flower Pot island and hiking its entirety, visiting the Tobermory Grotto, swimming in the blue water and of course taking in the small town charm of Tobermory itself. If you’re feeling adventurous (and like splurging) you should consider the helicopter ride over the area as well!

#4 Road Trip

Ontario is so much bigger than people assume. To give you perspective, Ontario is bigger than France and Spain combined! It’s great for us who live here or for us who visit because it means it’s a pretty safe bet that there’s plenty to see that you haven’t seen yet. One of the best ways to explore Ontario? Road trip! Gather up a bunch of friends and drive in virtually any direction you see (but perhaps not into the lakes) and you’ll be able to come across some cute towns, stunning nature and plenty of interesting things to do. 

#5 Be like millions of other people and spend a day enjoying all the cliche things in Niagara Falls

So pick a weekend and head to Niagara Falls to do all those cliche things you don’t do because you forget how great Niagara Falls is!

Picture below is the Canadian side of Niagara Falls but definitely look into how the American vs Canadian side of Niagara Falls holds up!

#6 Enjoy one of the MANY provincial parks

Ontario has over 300 provincial parks and over 200 conversation areas . They’re all a little bit different but they’re all spectacular in their own sense and there’s nothing quite like connecting with nature in the summer so why not check out one of these many, many, many areas?

 #7 Check out a food festival

While Toronto of course has a ton of food festivals going on all summer long, they’re not the only place in Ontario with food festivals. Lots of smaller towns (and larger ones!) have plenty of food festivals throughout the summer and they’re a great out door activity. This is a pretty good list with a fair amount of different options.

#8 Visit a winery in any of the Ontario wine regions

While the Niagara-on-the-Lake and Niagara Escarpment are very well known for their wineries there are other regions worth checking out as well including the one in Prince Edward County, the one along Lake Eerie’s North Shore and newer areas like the Ottawa Valley and the Georgian Bay. Obviously drink responsibly and book a night at a hotel or a cute bed and breakfast near the wineries. If you’re looking for a twist on the standard visit to a winery this bike ride from Toronto to Niagara will definitely earn you the rights to drink up!

#9 Attend a music festival

Besides ice cream and the beach, is there anything as summery as a music festival? Picture blue skies, shining suns and your favourite bands performing live? Pretty easy to see why it’s a must during the summer. This list is a pretty good one to find the ones going on in Ontario. And, yes it’s typically for the younger crowd but there’s nothing stopping anyone of any age from going to one!

#10 Partake in some activities on the water like kayaking and canoeing

Grab any kind of vessel like a kayak, canoe, paddle board etc. and spend some time on the lakes.

Make sure you wear your life vests and sunscreen though!

#11 Explore a lavender farm

Ontario has a fair amount of different lavender farms and you can’t go wrong with any of the ones you pick.

They’re usually fairly large so they make for a good walk but do bring your camera because as Instagram common as it is, it’s still worth the pictures!

#12 Hike some waterfalls in Hamilton

Hamilton is pretty much the waterfall capital of Canada with over 100 waterfalls in the area and there’s plenty of the waterfalls that are accessible for climbing and hiking. While you may be competing with some crowds depending on which waterfall you visit and when you do so, they’re still worth it. There’s something special about standing beneath a water fall that’s rushing down with water. Practice safety when climbing falls though!

#13 Visit the Cheltenham Badlands

Badlands are an area of soft rock where nothing grows that’s become very rounded/hilly.

They used to be open to the public but unfortunately the wear and tear on the badlands forced the closure of the lands to the public. This year a viewing platform was installed and while you can no longer walk around on them like we could a few years ago they’re most definitely worth a visit because of how unique they are.

#14 Explore 1000 Islands and its towns

The 1000 Islands is an area along the St. Lawrence River which borders both the United States and Canada. The area actually has 1864 islands and lots of small towns are included in the area like Gananoque and Brockville. A couple of the islands make up one of the Canadian National Parks but there’s a ton of things to see and do in the area and they’re one of the best summer trips you can do in Ontario!

#15 Spend a day at any of the water parks around the province

Sometimes all you want to do is ride a few slides and hang out in some pools so why not explore some of the water parks around Ontario for one of those days?

#16 Go tree top trekking

Tree top trekking is a great summer activity that lets you not only get outside but also gets your blood pumping. Some of the courses are scarier than others so make sure you pick one you’re comfortable with but they’re all fun and a great summer weekend activity!

#17 Visit the Donkey Sanctuary

The Donkey Sanctuary in Guelph is a fantastic place and a unique thing to consider doing with your summer days off. You get to visit the farm where they take in abused/neglected donkeys and care for them. It’s definitely a summer must do since they’re only open to visitors from the public between May and August. You can check out their exact hours here .

#18 Take a cruise

There’s nothing quite like being on a boat in the summer and with the number of lakes around there’s plenty of places to take some pretty epic cruises. You can of course explore Niagara Falls on boat but my vote is for taking a cruise through the 1000 Islands or around Tobermory and Fathom Five National Marine Park.

#19 Visit one of the National Parks and soak in some nature

Ontario has 6 national parks and 2 marine conservation areas spread throughout the province. A large majority of them are completely accessible from Toronto so they’re 100% worth checking out. If you’re looking for one to start with then Rouge Urban National Park right on the east side of Toronto is a great start!

 #20 Explore some abandoned ruins around the province

So there’s some debate here in regards to whether this should be promoted by bloggers or not. A lot of the ruins around the province are private property and it’s up to you to judge if it’s worth exploring them or not as you are trespassing on most of them. Some of them do not care what so ever (the Barber Paper Mill in Georgetown) while some have security patrolling (Camp 30 in Bowmanville). I’m of the opinion that the situations will vary and it’s ultimately a judgement call. Camp 30 is borderline scary so we didn’t really venture inside any buildings but walked around the exterior of them instead. The Barber Paper Mill is also scary but it’s out in the middle of the open and quite obviously accessed very open.

 #21 Go fruit picking

There are dozens of farms around Ontario so you’re not looking at a super long drive either.

We checked out Brooks Farms about 1 hour north of Toronto when they had the raspberries in bloom. Totally worth it! It’s typically fairly cheap too with an entrance fee/per pound fee and it’s a good outdoor activity!

#22 Explore some caves

Between Scenic Caves , Warsaw Caves , Bonnechere Caves and so many more there’s plenty of options and locations to make fit into your summer exploring.

  #23 Gather up a group of friends and head to a cottage

Now this is arguably one of the most Canadian things on this list. Cottaging is a true and tested Canadian activity. There’s no wrong way to do cottaging – all you have to do is have a good time. There’s usually some bonfires, some lakes and lots of socializing involved but it’s honestly one of the best ways to spend a weekend and if you gather a large enough crowd it’s usually not too expensive. If you don’t know where to look for cottages airbnb actually has a fair amount of options!

#24 Take a day trip to some adorable small towns

This blog obviously focuses on Toronto so I clearly adore my own city but given the millions of people who live here it can sometimes get fairly crowded and that’s especially true in the summer when everyone is out and about trying to soak up the sun as much as possible. The solution? Head to one of the many dozens small towns all around Ontario for a perfect day/weekend trip. I personally recommend Stratford and Port Hope which are in opposite directions but both completely worthy of their own trips. You’ll get all that summer experience with ice cream, blue lakes, patios and more but just none of the crowds!

#25 Pack a blanket and head to a Dark Sky Preserve

Did you know that Ontario actually has multiple dark sky preserves? These are areas of the province that are ideal for stargazing. Depending on when you try your luck you may even be able to spot some Northern Lights! Parks Canada has some  you can check out but there are other ones as well.

#26 Swim in one of the Great Lakes

Ontario has portions of 4/5 Great Lakes within the province so why not take advantage and go swimming in some of the Great Lakes? (As a cheat, the 4 lakes are: Lake Ontario, Lake Eerie, Lake Huron and Lake Superior).

#27 Explore one of the counties that you haven’t before

While Prince Edward County is incredibly well known and visit there are lots of beautiful counties around Ontario worth exploring including Bruce County, Grey County, Haliburton County and Lanark County.

#28 Hike a portion of the Bruce Trail

The Bruce Trail is a 890 km long trail that runs all the way from Niagara to Tobermory. The trail is both the oldest and longest in Canada and there’s plenty of places where you can hike a portion of it. But if you’re feeling adventurous and up to it why not hike the entire trail? I’d personally start small but then again I’m not a great hiker so overnight trails are so not my thing. To check out more information about the trail head to the official site .

#29 Spend a day on some beautiful beaches

Given how many lakes there are in Ontario, there’s obviously a fair amount of beaches as well. It can be hard to figure out which ones are worth the trip or not. A good indicator of a nice beach is whether it has blue flag status or not (indicating that it’s clean and accessible) and believe it or not, Ontario has almost 30 blue flag beaches. Check out the closest one to you here .

 #30 Visit the southernmost point of Canada at Point Pelee National Park

While you can potentially argue that a lot of Ontario’s nature is the same (but how dare you!), Point Pelee National Park is definitely unique. It’s got a tropical climate similar to Spain because of its location and its also the most southern land bound point of Canada. It’s about 4 hours from Toronto and makes for an excellent trip with lots of easier hikes!

 #31 Explore a sunflower farm

So you may have read the news that a sunflower farm got shut down because of how insanely popular it got on Instagram and while it’s a shame because it was a beautiful farm, it’s also a lesson. It’s a privilege to travel and to explore and you have to respect the nature you’re in. While this particular farm is no longer open to visitors there are others that are and they’re a great place to visit because of how impressive the flowers are but again, respect yourselves and your surroundings if you’re going to visit these places.

#32 Camp! If you’re not a huge camper like me, why not try an oTENTIK ?

oTENTIKs are unique to Parks Canada and a great combination of tents/cottages. For people like me who aren’t completely sold on actual camping they’re a great stepping stone to still roughing it a little but not actually sleeping on the ground!

#33 Hike to the very special Bathtub Island in Lake Superior Provincial Park

Lake Superior Provincial Park is arguably one of the most stunning pieces of nature Ontario has to offer. What makes it even more impressive is the natural pool that’s formed by Bathtub Island. It’s quite a drive up north but looking at how stunning it is there’s definitely plenty of reasons to go!

#34 Explore some very Canadian highway attractions

This incredibly comprehensive map shows you over 1200 of these attractions across Canada. Ontario has a ton of its own and one of the more well known ones is the giant nickle located in Sudbury (and pictured below).

  #35 Catch some sunsets and/or sunrises

Alright, this one might not be exclusive to Ontario by any means but with the fantastic geography we have in the province it provides some absolutely spectacular sunsets and sunrises. You can catch some over a city skyline, over a beach, over a forest or even over a lake. Bonus points for the fact that it’s so warm you won’t even regret doing it!

#36 Visit a Farmers Market Around the Province

Farmer Markets are great because they support local businesses, let you get outside and provides you with fresh products! Given how many farms there are around Ontario that also means there’s a ton of Farmers Markets around the province to check these goods out at. This is an excellent website that lets you find over 180 markets based on location (you can even select the days you want to visit!).

 #37 Cut yourself a bouquet of fresh flowers

Yes it takes some of the spontaneity out of it but you’re still able to gather yourself a beautiful bouquet, feel accomplished by cutting it yourself and get to take it home! Check out the Facebook page for upcoming dates!

There are of course other farms around Ontario where you can do the same thing so make sure to check those out as well!

How many of these items have you already managed to check out in Ontario? What’s on your list for the summer? Let me know in the comments and pin this post for your own travels!

Came to read about the Stratford festival but stayed to read the rest!

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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

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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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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.

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

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Eric Wychopen

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

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25 Best & Fun Things to Do in Ontario (Canada)

The beautiful province of Ontario sits along the shared Canada/U.S. border near the Great Lakes. Toronto, the capital of Ontario, is the largest city in the country, and with nearly half of Canada’s population calling this province home, it is 15 times larger than Texas.

Its vast wilderness and cosmopolitan cities provide endless opportunities for the traveler, avid adventurer, and family on a fun getaway.

With attractions like Bruce Peninsula National Park, Niagara Falls, the Hockey Hall of Fame, and Toronto CN Tower, visitors will always have plenty of things to keep them busy.

Let’s explore the best things to do in Ontario, Canada.

Things to Do in Ontario, Canada

1. horseshoe falls.

Horseshoe Falls is the most striking of the three waterfalls that form Niagara Falls on the U.S. and Canadian border.

Heading to the Canadian side of Ontario, Horseshoe Falls is regarded as the ‘jewel’ of Niagara. You can enjoy the Horseshoe Falls in diverse ways. Participating in the activities offered at Horseshoe Falls is among the fun things to do in Ontario, Canada.

One of the most thrilling activities is zip lining 2,200 feet toward the falls – you even have a feel of the mist. Another well-sought choice is the Journey Behind the Falls experience, just at the base of Horseshoe Falls.

You can also take the White Water Walk, which guides visitors along the Class Six rapids of Niagara River. Enjoy the Whirlpool Aero Car, which offers scintillating views of the falls, or the Hornblower Niagara Cruises taking guests on a thrilling boat tour.

Address: Oak Hall, 7400 Portage Road, Niagara Falls, Ontario L2E 6T2, Canada

2. Rideau Canal

Rideau Canal was built in 1832. Its sole purpose was to secure a supply route in case of a war with the United States.

It adopts a slack water system to get the rapids better, allowing watercraft to go both upstream and downstream.

This system’s operation is achieved through a collection of locks manually made using locally-sourced materials, effort, and a massive feat of human genius.

Rideau Canal is a living piece of history, with many original structures still intact and the locks operating much as they did in the 19th century.

Guests are inspired to explore the Canal’s historical sites to appreciate how and why it was built. Rideau is also a center for outdoor recreation activities.

Address: 34 Beckwith Street South, Smith Falls, Ontario K7A 2A8, Canada

3. Royal Ontario Museum

The Royal Ontario Museum (ROM) was established in 1914. It is one of the top ten cultural institutions in North America.

It is the largest and most comprehensive Museum in Canada, housing a world-renowned collection of 13 million natural history specimens, artworks, and cultural objects, displayed across 40 exhibitions and galleries.

ROM is the nation’s most crucial field research institute and an international leader in advanced discoveries. It plays a crucial role in understanding the artistic, cultural, and natural world. ROM

Royal Ontario Museum is situated in Toronto. It is both a cultural destination and a national landmark.

Popular exhibitions include the Thorsell Spirit House, Roloff Beny Gallery, and Samuel Hall Currelly Gallery.

Address: 100 Queen’s Park, Toronto, Ontario M5S 2C6, Canada

4. Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada

Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada , located in downtown Toronto, is southeast of the famous CN Tower. Exploring the exhibits at Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada should make your list of the top things to do in Ontario, Canada.

Having 1.5 gallons of freshwater and marine habitats from all parts of the world, the Aquarium features over 20,000 specimens across over 450 species.

There are ten unique galleries: Dangerous Lagoon, Canadian Waters, Rainbow Reef, Ray Bay, Discovery Center, Shoreline Gallery, The Gallery, Planet Jellies, Life Support Systems, and Swarm: Nature by Numbers.

Some animals featured include Picasso triggerfish, Wolf eel, sand tiger sharks, electric eel, clownfish, moon jelly, bonnethead sharks, and southern stingrays.

In the Life Support System exhibit, guests get a backstage look at the life support systems room, which features Dangerous Reef and Ray equipment.

Address: 288 Bremner Boulevard, Toronto, Ontario M5V 3L9, Canada

5. Algonquin Provincial Park

It would interest you to know that Algonquin Provincial Park is the first park in Ontario, as well as its largest.

Algonquin Provincial Park, dubbed the Gem of Ontario Parks, is located in the state’s southeastern part. It is one of the best places to visit in Ontario, Canada.

This Canadian favorite annually hosts more than 800,000 visitors, as it offers lasting and endearing memories to every single visitor.

You quickly access the Park via the Highway 60 corridor that runs close to 35 miles through it with lots of wildlife viewing opportunities.

Join other visitors in accessing Visitor Center, the Logging Museum, and Art Centre along this stretch. Other highlights you wouldn’t want to miss are the Lake of Two Rivers, Whiskey Rapids Trail, and Barron Canyon Trail.

If you are adventurous, you can navigate the Park’s interior either by canoe or on foot.

Address: Highway 60, Whitney, Ontario KOJ 2M0, Canada

6. National Gallery of Canada

The National Gallery of Canada , housed in a beautiful granite and glass building, is the country’s premier art gallery. Moshe Safdie designed it.

This Gallery offers astonishing views of the buildings on Parliament Hill. It features a large and varied collection of photographs, paintings, sculptures, and drawings.

Its primary focus is on Canadian art; however, it has various works by several recognized European and American artists.

You would find a considerable contemporary art collection, including some of the most famous pieces created by popular artist Andy Warhol.

The Gallery offers several guided tours for adults, but the group must have a minimum of ten people and place reservations at least three weeks ahead.

Address: 380 Sussex Drive, Ottawa, Ontario K1N 9N4, Canada

7. Niagara Parks Butterfly Conservatory

The Niagara Parks Butterfly Conservatory is a tropical paradise that boasts waterfalls and verdant vegetation. It is nestled within the Niagara Parks Botanical Gardens.

Over 2,000 brightly colored butterflies of 45 different species are dancing around the glass-enclosed Conservatory.

Inside, visitors will wander along the twisting winding pathways before stopping at the emergency window, where they’ll get the rare opportunity to watch hundreds of butterflies take their first flight.

Many butterflies are imported, with 60% coming from butterfly farms in Costa Rica, El Salvador, and the Philippines.

The remaining 40% are bred in the quarantined greenhouse located behind the Conservatory. The tours here are self-guided and start with a prompt yet informative video presentation.

Address: 2565 Niagara Parkway, Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ontario L0S 1J0, Canada

8. Art Gallery of Ontario

The Art Gallery of Ontario (AGO) is a massive gallery in Toronto, Ontario. This gallery occupies over 147,000 square feet and is the largest in North America.

There are over 95,000 works in the gallery’s permanent collection cutting through the present back to as far as the first century.

Upon visiting, expect to see Central and Western African art, Gothic boxwood miniatures, European masterpieces, emerging Canadian indigenous artists, a photography collection, The Group of Seven 1920s landscape painters, and more.

The building itself is a standing work of art. You would enjoy gallery amenities like Galleria Italia Espresso Bar, Café AGO, Shop AGO, and ASO Bistro.

Free admission is offered on Wednesday evenings.

Address: 317 Dundas Street West, Toronto, Ontario M5T IG4, Canada

9. Hockey Hall of Fame

The Hockey Hall of Fame is a museum dedicated to ice hockey in Toronto.

Here, visitors have a good feel of the game in the past and the present. There you’ll find 15 exhibits featuring teams, players, and others who’ve developed the sport, like officials, commentators, and coaches.

In the ‘Great Hall’ is the famous Stanley Cup, arguably the most prominent display at the museum. The Great Hall is also home to annual Hall of Fame induction ceremonies and honors Hall of Famers.

More features include NHLPA Be a Player Zone – an interactive hockey exhibit; the NHL Zone, which features current players and teams; and the World of Hockey Zone, dedicated to the sport worldwide.

You can also catch Stanley’s Game Seven, a 3D animation film with archival footage.

Address: Brookfield Place, 30 Yonge Street, Toronto, Ontario M5E 1X8, Canada

10. Bruce Peninsula National Park

Bruce Peninsula National Park is located on Ontario’s Niagara Escarpment. This Park is part of the state’s UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve. It is home to over 200 species of large and small mammals, rare reptiles, amphibians, and birds.

Visitors can trek the backcountry on multi-day adventures, hike the front country, swim the pristine lakes, and scramble the rocky shoreline of Georgian Bay; they are among the fun things to do in Ontario, Canada.

There are camping opportunities available in yurts or at campsites. You can also take advantage of the Visitor Centre in Tobermory, which is the best place to start an adventure.

Guests can anticipate myriad trails with great views, a park film, a 65-foot lookout tower, and numerous interpretive programs. It is truly a beautiful place to visit.

Address: 469 Cyprus Lake Road, Tobermory, Ontario N0H 2R0 Canada

11. St Lawrence Market South

St Lawrence Market South comprises three main buildings – the North Market, the South Market, and St. Lawrence Hall. St Lawrence Market is an essential piece of Toronto’s history.

Popularly known for its Saturday Farmers’ Market, the North Market started this tradition in 1803 and is still where Southern Ontarians meet the locals with their seasonal produce.

It also serves as an antique hall on Sundays, with over 80 dealers assembling in the surrounding space to display their wares.

The main attraction here is the South Market. It is open daily with more than 120 specialty vendors offering a cross-selection of fresh fruit, fish, meat, vegetables, grains, baked goods, and dairy products, as well as several non-food items for sale.

Address: 92 – 95 Front Street East, Toronto, Ontario M5E 1C3, Canada

12. Toronto Zoo

Toronto Zoo is the nation’s leader in wildlife rescue. It is set in stunning Rogue Valley. This Zoo ensures that a rich diversity of nature is preserved for future generations. You can’t be looking for what to do in Ontario, Canada, when you are yet to visit this Zoo.

Ranking as one of the largest zoos in the world, it is home to over 5,000 animals of over 450 species, seven exhibits, seven gift shops, six miles of walking trails, four rides, and the Discovery Zone.

The latter features the Kids Zoo offering a two-acre water play area, an interactive wildlife experience, the Waterside Theatre, and Splash Island.

Toronto Zoo is divided into seven zoogeographic sections – the Americas, Africa, Canadian Domain, Indo-Malaya, Eurasia, Australasia, and Tundra Trek.

Some of the rides you’d find are Zoomobile, Conservation Carousel, Tundra Air ride, and Gorilla Climb Ropes Course.

Address: 361A Old Finch Avenue, Toronto, Ontario M1B 5K7, Canada

13. LA Tour CN Tower

As you may know, CN Tower in Toronto, Ontario, is one of the world’s tallest buildings.

Positioned in the heart of the city, it offers stunning 360-degree views. Viewing this magnificent structure is one of the best things to do in Ontario, Canada.

Visitors can experience CN Tower in diverse ways. The Lookout level has a glass floor and floor-to-ceiling window walls, and at 1,136 feet, it easily provides folktale views for all visitors.

The glass floor on the Lookout level is just above the original glass floor one story below, allowing visitors to see the street.

Moving up thirty-three stories, guests will find SkyPod, one of the world’s highest observation platforms. 

If you are daring, try out Edgewalk – an outdoor, hands-free, thrill walk 116 stories above ground.

Address: 301 Front Street West, Toronto, Ontario M5V 2T6, Canada

14. Skylon Tower

One of the most famous attractions in Niagara Falls is the Skylon Tower . It provides jaw-dropping 360-degree views 775 feet above the falls.

It also boasts indoor/outdoor observation decks, two restaurants, and the main lobby outfitted with diverse shopping opportunities, including exciting glass-blowing performances by Angelo Rossi, the ‘King of Glass.’

The Revolving Dining Room restaurant is the most popular highlight of Skylon. It is a silent 360-degree rotation every hour, offering diners an ever-changing perspective as they dine on award-winning continental cuisine.

You would also enjoy Summit Suite Buffet Dining Room restaurant. This family-affordable restaurant provides an extensive selection of dishes, delectable pastries, fresh salads, carved meats, and fresh seafood.

Address: 5200 Robinson Street, Niagara Falls, Ontario L2G 2A3, Canada

15. Toronto Eaton Centre

Toronto Eaton Centre is a large office complex and shopping mall in the city’s downtown area.

It boasts of its magnificent glass galleria and the famous “Flight Stop” geese – an art installation created by Michael Snow, a legendary Canadian artist.

This piece appears to be 60 geese in flight hanging from the ceiling, making the gallery one of the celebrated landmarks in Canada.

It is home to more than 250 best-in-class retailers, services, and restaurants like Godiva Chocolatier, Armani Exchange, Hendricks Restaurant and Bar, Toys Toys Toys, Links of London, and Williams-Sonoma.

It also hosts several events like a DIY workshop, Levi’s Tailor Shop, and Visit with Santa during the holiday season.

Address: 220 Yonge Street, Toronto, Ontario M5B 2H1, Canada

Are you considering exploring the United States, here is a guide on things to do in Maine , and things to do in Kentucky , for a fun vacation

16. Distillery District

Over ten years ago, a dream was born to transform 47 buildings of the Gooderham & Worts Distillery into a posh, SoHo-style neighborhood staple for artisans, artists, businesspeople, and entrepreneurs.

Today, that vision is a reality, and Victorian industrial architecture is central to this internationally acclaimed village.

Guests would find unique boutiques, shops, galleries, studios, theaters, cafés, and restaurants in this entertainment and arts district. 

Distillery District occupies 12 acres of space and is one of downtown Toronto’s best attractions. You can get an overview of the Distillery District – by a Segway tour, a walking tour, or a foodie tour.

Myriads of events occur here every year, from outdoor summer concerts on Trinity Square to the Toronto Light Festival to the Toronto Christmas Market.

Address: 9 Trinity Street, Suite 200, Toronto, Ontario M5A 3C4, Canada

17. Silence

Silence – you may ask, “how quiet can this place be”? It’s actually the opposite.

Silence, founded in 2012 in Guelph, is an artist-owned creative and community space that provides a unique space for creating innovative contemporary music and ambient sound art pieces.

It is a fully-accessible performance space that partners with local organizations such as the Guelph Jazz Festival, the International Institute for Critical Studies in Improvisation, and the Black Heritage Society to present over 150 annual concerts, workshops, and art performance exhibitions, including live music performances by classical, folk, alternative, folk, jazz, and world music artists.

Experimental and risk-taking works are encouraged, with more emphasis laid on improvisational music and sound pieces.

As a nonprofit organization, Silence has also produced several albums of past artist work and hosted weekly community-based Morning Music improv sessions at its studio since 2012.

Address: 46 Essex Street, Guelph, ON N1H 3K8, Canada

18. Toronto Islands

The Toronto Islands are a collection of 15 interconnected islands situated on Lake Ontario. It would take you 13 minutes on a ferry ride from downtown.

Spanning a little over three miles from Hanlan’s Point to Ward’s Island, it is a little task for visitors to walk from one end of the aisle to the other via the bridges and pathways.

The Island offers a bunch of outdoor recreation activities for all age categories on its outdoor facilities, including canoe, kayak, and kayak rentals, sports facilities, grassy areas for picnicking, nature paths, and a theatre.

There is also a 150-year-old community harboring 600 natives who live in quaint cottages year-round, an artist’s retreat, a 200-year-old lighthouse, a trout pond, a boardwalk, a pier, restaurants, and formal gardens.

Address: Jack Layton Ferry, Queens Quay West, Toronto, Ontario M5J 2H3, Canada

19. Georgian Bay

Georgian Bay is located on Lake Huron and makes up the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve.

This beautiful lake with 1,240 miles of granite shoreline, Georgian Bay Islands National Park, and the largest freshwater archipelago in the world is a must-see when visiting Ontario. 

Summer is usually excellent, as it activates full-swing boating, fishing, and kayaking. The annual Festival of Sound is also held every July at Parry Sound.

Beachgoers delight in Providence Bay boardwalk and beach on Manitoulin Island, as well as Wasaga Beach (the longest freshwater beach in the world) at Georgian Bay’s southern end.

September unleashes fall colors reflecting off calm waters, and winter turns the Bay into a snow sports dreamworld.

Address: 99 Lone Pine Road, Port Severn, Ontario L0K 1S0, Canada

20. Canada’s Wonderland

This amusement park hits all the marks for families. Adventure seekers will be delighted by the exciting collection of rides that turn, twist, and soar, including Leviathan, Behemoth, Lumberjack, and the new Yukon Striker with a record-breaking dive.

There is kid-friendly entertainment at Planet Snoopy and KidZville so that the kids can pick something from over 25 rides.

Have you heard about Splash Works? It is a 20-acre water park with wave pools, water playgrounds, a lazy river float, slides, and a Lakeside Lagoon children’s pool and play area.

Canada’s Wonderland hosts events throughout the year, including Camp Spooky on Halloween and Winterfest, held in November. It is one of the best places to visit in Ontario, Canada, especially with kids.

Address: 1 Canada’s Wonderland Drive, Vaughan, ON L6A 1S6, Canada

21. Casa Loma

Casa Loma, formerly the estate of Sir Henry Mill Pellatt, is now a local attraction and event space. This ‘medieval’ castle on a hill above Toronto had its foundational construction in 1911 and was completed in 1914.

The stunning castle provides sweeping views of Toronto. Visitors can take self-guided tours of the castle suites, secret passageways, towers, estate gardens, stables, and an 800-foot tunnel.

These tours are available in multiple languages. If you have an appetite, three quality restaurants are on the property to satisfy your cravings.

There is Liberty Café serving breakfast and lunch in a coffeehouse setting, BlueBlood Steakhouse, a fine dining experience, and Terrace Grill, a seasonal outdoor dining venue.

Do well to grab unique souvenirs from Casa Loma Gift Shop.

Address: 1 Austin Terrace, Toronto, Ontario M5R 1X8, Canada

22. EdgeWalk at the CN Tower

EdgeWalk at the CN Tower is Toronto’s most fantastic extreme urban adventure.

It is a 1.5-hour experience that includes 30 minutes of outdoor time strolling the circumference of the tower’s main pod.

You can perform a hands-free walk 116 stories above ground for more thrills on a 5-foot-wide ledge.

A guide leads groups of six adventurers at a time, encouraging them to stretch their limits and tilt into the air off the edge of the ledge while affixing to a safety rail via their harness. 

By following the daredevil walk, participants get free access to the Lookout, Glass Floor, and SkyPod. So if you don’t know what to do in Ontario, Canada, don’t hesitate to go on this adventure.

23. Blue Mountain Resort

Located on the Niagara Escarpment northwest of Collingwood, Ontario, Blue Mountain Resort is one of Canada’s favorite alpine ski resorts.

This popular ski and snowboard destination boasts five ski areas for visitors – the South area and the Village are best for all levels, including amateurs.

The Blue Mountain Inn area and the Orchard area are ideal for intermediate skiers and snowboarders, while North is reserved for advanced skiers and snowboarders only.

Nestled along Georgian Bay is the resort, which offers plenty of activities throughout the year, from snowmobiling and snowshoeing in the winter to zip lining and riding the Ridge Runner Mountain Coaster in the summer.

It’s all fun here, anytime!

Address: 108 Jozo Weider Boulevard, Blue Mountains, Ontario L9Y 3Z2, Canada

24. Flowerpot Island

Would you love to experience nature and its touch? Then, include Flowerpot Island in your list of top things to do in Ontario, Canada.

Flowerpot Island is one of the foremost experiences of a visit to Fathom Five National Marine Park. It is famous for natural rock pillars that look like flowerpots, rare plants, caves, and a historic lighthouse.

Visitors gain access to Flowerpot Island via boat tours out of Tobermory. But, if you are an experienced kayaker, you can make your way to the Island.

There is a lot to observe while there. However, those short of time will want to spend it admiring the flowerpots and exploring the cave, which can be completed in 90 minutes.

But those with ample time can hike around the Island’s loop trail, visit the lighthouse, or have a picnic.

Address: 469 Cyprus Lake Road, Tobermory, Ontario N0H 2R0, Canada

25. Kensington Market

Kensington Market, located in Toronto, has been a Canadian National Historic site since 2005. It is a walkable bohemian neighborhood filled with independently-owned shops, working art galleries, and vintage clothing boutiques.

Here, you will find bakeries, cheese shops, and specialty grocers. There is also a lineup of casual and fine dining restaurants, trendy cafés, and bars.

There is abounding street art with murals and public sculptures over the place. You can play or visit to meet Kensington Market Art Fair, a seasonal event supporting local artists, held from the last Sunday of May through October.

Another must-see is the vibrant Winter Solstice Festival, braced with a spectacular parade. In addition, guests will enjoy Bellevue Square Park, tree-lined streets, and Victorian houses outside the market.

Address: Spadina Avenue, Toronto, Ontario, Canada

Take to exploring other cities of Canada, check out our list of things to do in Waterloo , and things to do in Windsor .

Plan Your Trip to Ontario

Ontario is a graceful vacation destination. As you’ve seen, there are lots of activities to enjoy in this beautiful world’s heritage.

The pristine lakes, wilderness, and the notable Niagara Falls – Canada’s most explored attraction makes Ontario a top destination if you want a thrilling vacation experience.

Start planning your trip to Ontario!

Best Places to Visit in Ontario, Canada (2023)

Here’s a fun fact about Ontario that you should know. It is large! As a matter of fact, it’s a lot larger than some of your favourite European countries, like France.

That alone should trigger some curiosity regarding what structures and places occupy Ontario.

Top 40 Best Places to Visit in Ontario

1. wasaga beach, 2. toronto’s cn tower, 3. lake erie, 4. blue mountain, 5. bruce peninsula national park, 6. lake huron, 7. library of parliament, 8. flowerpot island, 9. thousand islands, 10. capital city, 11. the grotto, 12. stratford festival, 13. royal ontario museum, 14. national gallery of canada, 15. northern ontario, 16. burlington, 17. kingston, 18. casa loma, 19. algonquin provincial park, 20. thunder bay, 21. hamilton, 22. greater sudbury, 23. diefenbunker, 24. scenic caves, 25. cheltenham badlands, 26. saint lawrence river, 27. mississauga, 28. port dover, 29. niagara falls, 30. sault ste. marie, 31. tobermory, 32. peterborough, 33. scarborough bluffs, 34. dundurn castle, 35. kingston waterfront, 36. peller estates winery, 37. fort henry national historic site, 38. donald m. gordon chinguacousy park, 39. lion’s valley park, 40. elora quarry, best places to visit in ontario: final words.

Trust me; there’s a lot, and these places are beautiful too. However, you won’t enjoy exploring the massive province of Ontario, Canada; without some exquisite list pointing you in the right direction.

That’s why we came up with this list of the best places to visit in Ontario. I promise you; you’ll be mind-blown.

Without further ado, let’s dig in. 

My Impression

One of the places you should look forward to visiting in Ontario is Wasaga Beach. Fun fact; it was one of the world’s debut tourist destinations. Of course, the major attraction is that it houses the world’s longest freshwater beach. 

The water is really clean and warm enough to take a good swim. Coupled with swimming, you’ll enjoy playing in the sand and soaking up the summer sun. When you feel bored, you can stroll from the main beach to the other beach areas. At the main beach, you can buy anything from food to souvenirs, and fancy beach wears, etc. 

What’s a better way to enjoy Ontario than to visit the tower that held the title of the world’s tallest freestanding structure for 30 straight years? But, of course, exploring this building isn’t for the faint-hearted. While it can be traumatizing for people with a fear of heights, it serves you electrifying views of the earth that makes you scream out in joy. 

The building is 1,815 tall and is wrapped with glass walls. So, you would see the world in a better option than 3D. Of course, feel free to take pictures and look down a lot- if you’re not afraid of heights. 

Where are my fishermen? If you love to engage in fishing sports, Lake Erie calls for you. It’s one of the best locations in the world for fishing sports. Precisely, it’s perfect for walleye fishery- anglers would know this. But that’s not to say other people won’t enjoy visiting Lake Erie. 

You can visit one of the beaches in Lake Erie to enjoy surf swimming. You can also enjoy the scenic drive along the beach. That’s an adventure in itself- especially if you’re great with a map. 

The mountain isn’t blue. It’s like every other mountain. However, they look blue. And it’s thanks to the eucalyptus trees that live in the mountain. 

These trees cover the mountain with a blue haze; that’s why they are blue. The blue mountain is perfect for skiing and rock climbing. But that’s the tip of the iceberg of why you should visit this location. Scattered around the mountain are villages and towns that harbour fantastic experiences that can help you make up a wonderful holiday. 

Your tour of Ontario, Canada, isn’t complete without touring a park. We’ve got the best place for you to start with, and it’s the Bruce peninsula national park. It has one of the best virgin forests I have ever seen. Everything is so natural, and it holds immense beauty than you’ve ever seen. 

The cliff is terrible for cliff diving. But you can go hiking on the incredibly awesome hiking trails . Then, there’s the enticing turquoise water, sometimes washing up into parts of the singing sand. 

Lake Huron is one of the best vacation spots in Ontario. There are many attractions on the beach that keeps tourists trooping in all year round. While swimming in the turquoise, clear water is one of the reasons people visit the lake, and the long beaches are another reason to visit this lake. 

The river systems are extensive, and the sand dunes are unique. Intriguingly, Lake Huron hides about 100 historic shipwrecks beneath its surface. But of course, its surface isn’t suggestive of it. 

While there is no water to surf around or mountains to climb in the Library of Parliament, it’s still an advantageous location to visit. Think of your visit to the Library of Parliament as a tour of one of the most Iconic places on earth. 

The library doesn’t only house history but is carved most impressively. The walls are covered in handcrafted details that only a tour guide can help you understand its essence. Walking into the library is almost like walking into a heavenly place. 

There is a white statue standing at what feels like the centre of the library. The walls are all brownish- with the lights, they have a golden glow. It has flying buttresses that are massive.

Flowerpot Island is the most natural stack of rocks and flowers put together. The first thrill for me was that you could only get to the island by boat. The wonder starts on the way to the island. 

You’ll come across two historic shipwrecks before reaching the island. The rock pillars, now called “flowerpots,” weren’t always like that. But the rocks naturally formed the structure we see today thanks to years of waves, winds, and other elements hitting the coastline. 

So, I guess we can call this nature’s work of art. Once you get there, you can cruise in the water. But that’s not all. Don’t worry, watching the rocks isn’t the only thing to do on this island. 

For starters, you can go camping with your family on the island. The hiking trails are also remarkable. The island is also a haven for swimmers and snorkelers, etc.  

Thousand islands hold thousands of reasons why you should visit them. Aside from the fact that it’s a beautiful island surrounded by abundant greenery, the activities you’ll do here make it the best vacation spot for you and your family. 

Here’s a free tip; experiencing the island is one of the best ways to bond and feel closer to your family. The best part of 1000 island is the accommodation for visitors. Tourists can choose from a variety of places to live. For privacy, you can rent from the array of private island homes. 

Guess what; you can access all these vacation perks on the island at a low price. The 1000 island borders Canada and the United States – specifically New York .

The Capital City refers to Toronto – the capital of Ontario.

The city sits on Lake Ontario – precisely, its Northwestern shore. Do you know what this means? Capital City sits close to the border between Canada and the United States. Toronto is one of Canada’s most populous cities and a major tourist attraction worldwide.

As a tourist, I can tell you for free that I’m not just attracted to the Capital City because of the CN tower . On the contrary, I’m drawn to it for its remarkable collection of galleries and museums like the Hockey Hall of Fame and the Toronto Dominion Gallery of Inuit Art. It’s also a multicultural space, and I’ve always loved the diversity.

The Grotto is one of the places within Bruce Peninsula National Park that I and other tourist love to explore. It’s all thanks to its fantastic hiking trails. 

But there’s more! The Grotto has an amazing cave that’s perfect for swimming. If you intend to spend part of your summer scuba diving and snorkelling, you’ve come to the right place. 

Undeniably, the Grotto is a fun place to be. With the clear waters and various spots to relax, you’ll have a swell of time. But it can also be a dangerous place for kids. 

I don’t know how they do it, but Stratford Festival blesses you with the experience of a lifetime. The intrigue in all these is how the organizers manage to do the festival differently every year. 

You can never get tired or outgrow the festival- there is always something new to enjoy and witness. If you’re a music lover and deeply appreciate theatrical art and performance, now is the time to create a spot for this on your to-do list. 

The festival takes you on an epic journey of theatre plays from classical to contemporary. Of course, the emphasis is on none other than the literary genius- Shakespeare. 

With places like the Royal Ontario Museum, you don’t need to wish that time travel was real to explore the wonders of past civilizations. The reason is that this museum effortlessly takes you down memory lane. Although you might not see dinosaurs, you’ll see what their bones look like. 

With great imagination, you can imagine just how big or small they were. The museum also takes you to the Canadian societies that existed in times past. But that’s not all. 

This museum showcases bits and pieces of the world. With over six million artifacts from around the world placed on exhibition, you’re bound to experience parts of the various cultures around the globe. 

I’ve heard people gush about the outstanding architecture of the National Gallery of Canada. It wasn’t until I discovered that it had won awards for its architecture that I finally decided to visit the place. Much to my delight, it was worth my time. 

Aside from the main museum, the entire building houses a fascinating interior garden, courtyards, the dazzling great hall, and much more. When you’re ready to enter the museum, you’ll come across Louise Bourgeois’ 30foot spider sculpture right at the entrance. 

Then comes the beauty of the building. The building is a perfect combination of glass and granite, and the design is the brain work of Moshe Safdie. At the museum, you’ll come across artifacts, religious paintings, and unique sculptures- all teaching you about the soul of Canadian art. 

Got a knack for fishing? Northern Ontario is the place you should explore. It’s the perfect place for anglers to indulge in their fishing hobby- especially the Algoma Region. You can go on a fishing vacation that you won’t regret. 

Not about that fishing life? No problem. There are dozen other reasons to explore Northern Ontario. For starters, it’s very quiet. Given that it is not as populated as the south, it’s the perfect escape from all the noise in the city. 

The landscapes in Northern Ontario would leave you gazing, jaw-dropped at the wonders of nature. It has some of the finest and most natural landscapes on earth. Thanks to the clear rivers, archaeology, forest, and greenery to purify the air. This part of Ontario is vibrant with Indigenous history.

Burlington is one of Ontario’s best places to visit when you want to experience life in a small city. Although the city is small, it’s got a huge lifestyle. 

Here’s what I mean. There are many places you can visit with friends for fun. You can explore the city’s waterfront. They also have restaurants that allow you to experience the city’s food like a native. 

For instance, the Pepperwood bistro is one place you should visit. You’ll be presented with some of the best wines, beers, cocktails, and savoury dishes to delight your taste buds. 

Statistically, Kingston attracts 5.5 million visitors yearly. While that’s a lot of figures, it’s enough to send anyone down the rabbit hole of curiosity regarding why it seems like such a big deal. As a tourist that’s explored these regions more than once, here are some reasons Kingston is such a people magnet. 

For movie freaks like me, the two film festivals are one of the reasons Kingston is bubbling with visitors. The Kingston Canadian Film Festival is one of the festivals. Aside from that, genuine lovers of the art fly into Kingston to see the four Rembrandt paintings in the City. 

This City is also famous for housing the Royal Military College of Canada and Queen’s University. Beer lovers would be delighted by the city’s brewery. For a bit of rugged adventure, the Kingston Axe Throwing should suit your appetite.  

In its glory days, Casa Loma shape-shifted from being a luxury hotel to a sonar research secret facility during the era of World War 2. In recent times, it’s a major attraction for tourists. I have to say that it’s mind-blowing. The structure existed before the First World War. 

It was built by Sir Henry Pellatt, who was more concerned about building a luxurious and safe place to call home for himself and his family. Of course, he did a fantastic job. But it had gone through modifications since the family was forced to flee their home- no thanks to war and increased tax. 

Over the years, the beauty of this castle-like home has been well-preserved. There are 98 rooms in this castle. Every room in here is heavy with stories to tell. If that’s not a call to a wonderful adventure, I don’t know what else is. 

The wilderness at the Algonquin provincial park is nothing short of pristine. Aside from that, the park has some of the best hills scattered all around the park. When fall hits, you’ll appreciate these hills’ presence. They change colours from orange to crimson and gold. 

It’s also the best place for moose spotting, thanks to the moose living in solitary at the park. The park is also rich in a clear and clean river. Here’s the fun part. Algonquin Provincial Park has a free ground of about 7,650 square to accommodate outdoor activities. 

Thunder Bay is an adventurer’s paradise. Beyond serving as the gateway to about 150,000 lakes and the whole of Northwest Ontario, this city has a higher calling. Of course, it fulfils the higher calling well enough. Unsurprisingly, it is one of the most visited places in Northern Ontario. 

Let me help you understand why. To begin, Thunder Bay has one of the fascinating scenic views in Ontario. The synchronization of the rocky mountain and hills, the rivers, and the thick greens of the trees and forest is enough to inspire people. 

There are many things to try out as soon as you get into Thunder Bay. From exploring the City’s fair in August, dining in their epic restaurant, to skiing, you can never get bored in this ever-vibrant city. 

Hamilton has more tricks under its sleeves than just being an industrial heritage. The city has an urban vibe to it, and it is vibrant and alive with artistic sceneries. Once you’re in Hamilton, you’re close to some of the most incredible waterfalls, art galleries, restaurants with delicious food, fantastic shopping experience, etc. 

The list is truly endless. One of the reasons Hamilton got under my radar was its culinary culture. It is unique and has experienced rapid growth. I have to admit that I envy the culinary culture here. But I’m most especially thrilled that I get to experience it. 

Having the Roma slab pizza in its hometown hits differently than eating it anywhere else in the world. You’ll never be hungry in Hamilton in the diverse restaurant in the city serving a blend of Canadian, Asian and Cuisines from other parts of the world. Don’t worry; there are so many other things to do in Hamilton besides just food. 

This is the largest city in Northern Ontario. But there’s more; it’s one of those cities with diverse communities resident in them. For instance, you’ll find the Ukrainian, Aboriginal, French, Italian, and a host of other communities in this part of Canada. The centre of the city is fully urban.

Here in Greater Sudbury, there are several lakes with smaller villages nesting around these lakes. But that’s not where the magic of this city lies. It resides in the music, the outdoor activities, the art, and other features that serve as the major attraction for tourists and visitors from far and near. 

One such artistic attraction is the City’s Big Nickel that, it’s famously known for. They also have a park decorated with trees and lawns of different green shades. 

You can sit at the park and stare at the nearby lake as it dances to the tune of the waves and the breeze. They’ve also got museums, and the Lake Laurentian Conservation Area that’s the haven to nature in its purest form. 

The Diefenbunker is the place to go to for some history lessons. It is Canada’s museum dedicated to telling the story of the cold war. The only thing is that this isn’t like the regular museum you walk into. The Diefenbunker is history preserved. 

It’s a 100,000-square-foot underground bunker created for the Top officials in Canada. In fear of a nuclear attack, the bunker was designed to protect these officials. It is a four-storey; that’s enough space for the top officials. Touring the museum gives a unique learning experience. 

Several award-winning programs have been held here. You can also attend exhibitions and other events in the Diefenbunker to learn about Canada’s defence mechanism during the cold war. You’ll learn better with a guided tour. Nevertheless, you can self-guide yourself around this underground bunker, too. 

Scenic caves are for everyone- from adults to kids. Regardless of your age group, you would have so much fun. It takes you through nature adventures in different activities. 

First, you get to explore the caves and caverns that used to be the home to the Petun First Nations people. But it was carved by nature- specifically glacial ice. You can also get an electrifying view of nature on the suspension bridge. At 420 feet, it’s the longest in Southern Ontario.

Cheltenham Badlands has a wave-like topography and a rust-red colour. The current state of the badlands was born out of exposing the underlying Queenston Shale as erosion swallowed up the topsoil. No thanks to the poor farming practices of the 1930 settlers. 

Initially, the badlands was rich in vegetation. But it gradually started to fade off and was replaced with the rust-red rocky hills that have recently covered it. The red indicates the high levels of iron oxide in the soil. 

In attempts to repair the damage that has been done, heavy conservative work has been exerted on the badlands. As a result, trails around it were constructed to give tourists a view of the red, rocky badlands. 

Saint Lawrence River isn’t just a lonely river whose role is to sit at the border of Quebec City. Instead, it has enough space for adventure lovers to indulge in their preferred outdoor activities. 

Aside from standing as the link that brings other lakes to the Atlantic Ocean, this river sleeps at the shoreline of diverse villages and communities. Combined, you’ll have a vacant space on your hand. Winter and summer are the best seasons to have a splendid experience at Saint Lawrence River. 

You can do anything from the cruise on the river to Quebec City, go surfing or sailing on the Baie de Beauport, Kite surfing, etc. You can also visit these communities and villages to explore their culture, food, etc. 

Mississauga has a unique vibrancy to it. It might seem like it’s just another bubbling city in Ontario. But what I’ve learnt about bubbling and vibrant cities in Canada- especially Ontario is never to assume you’ve seen it all. While they have the similar thrills of most Ontario cities, these cities always bring a different perspective to how you indulge in the fun.

For example, Mississauga has tons of historic villages and fantastic art. But you’d realize it’s unique and different from what you’ll experience in Toronto. Mississauga adds a new flame to how fun is done in the city.

There are tons of recreational parks you can relax at. And Guess what? Mississauga houses the Toronto Pearson International Airport. This is the biggest- also rated busiest, Airport in Canada. 

Most people know Port Dover because of the prominence of the fishing industry there. However, the place is home to many more attractions than just fishing. In essence, it’s not only a place for anglers to visit. 

For instance, regular tourists who aren’t fans of fishing can tour the lighthouse. You can also explore the Lynn River falls, sunrise café, etc. There’s so much more that you can do at Port Dover. 

The falls are the major tourist attraction at Niagara Falls. The name “Niagara Falls” refers to three different falls at the same location. The major fall that I and- most likely, other tourists gather to see is the one with more volume of water. 

It is also wide, but it’s beautiful to watch- especially from a boat cruise. Check this out; Niagara Falls is said to produce up to 4 million kilowatts of electricity which is distributed between Canada and the United States.

This next vacation sits at the core of the Great Lakes. When you encounter Sault Ste. Marie, you know you’ve come in contact with genuine culture and arts. It’s also a great place for lovers of sports to indulge their love for sports. 

There are so many things to do here. Some ideas include checking out the mural painting, museum, art gallery, spa for a self-care day, etc.  

If you ever want to explore freshwater scuba diving, let me officially welcome you to this place. Tagged as the freshwater Scuba of the world, it has all you need to enjoy scuba diving. 

On the North of Tobermory, eight islands make up the Fathom Five National Marine Park. This village houses many iconic places you should visit, like the Grotto, the Bruce Peninsula National Park , Flowerpot Island, etc. 

Peterborough is one of the most beautiful towns in Ontario, Canada. It has a unique culinary scene, music and arts. Landscape-wise, the city is beautiful. It is loaded with amazing parks that you’ll never get tired of visiting. 

While exploring this town is magical, extending your exploration to the other central regions of Peterborough would expose you to a lot more adventure. In essence, you’re not fully exploring this city if you’ve not visited the Kawarthas.

The Scarborough Bluffs is made up of 11 parks, all of which are family-friendly. One of the parks- Bluffer’s park, comes with a sand beach. Scarborough bluff owes its looks to the many years of water and wind erosion caused by Lake Ontario. 

Nevertheless, it’s a beautiful sight to behold. What’s more, fun is that there’s enough fun to go around- regardless of your age. Simply find the outdoor activity that connects with your soul, and you’ll be well on your way to having the best time of your life at this location.

This is a historic site in Hamilton. It is a 40-room villa built in the Italian- style. This historic site sits on Burlington Heights, where the British established their military encampment during the war in 1812. During historic times, this castle belongs to Sir Allan Napier MacNab. 

There’s so much that touring this castle would reveal to you. The castle area is massive, which means there are more areas to be explored. Since you can walk around the castle, feel free to learn about the history trapped within the four walls of the castle. 

When it comes to a list of places to visit in Ontario with an amazing view, the Kingston Waterfront should come to mind. It has fantastic views thanks to the converging rivers and the lakes. 

Luckily, the waterfront stretches forever, making it possible for people to enjoy outdoor water sports. The waterfront is also home to iconic places like the Yacht and Kingston rowing clubs. It has the perfect waterfront trails for bikers to explore. 

The Peller Estates Winery has been in existence since the 1920s. It was created by a Hungarian immigrant. But that’s not why this place is special to me and a must-visit. 

As a lover of genuine and pure wine, I couldn’t resist the trip to this winery. Aside for Winetasting, you’ll learn that the winery focuses on making Ice wine, Chardonnay, Riesling, etc. 

This historic site is a time travel portal. Of course, I didn’t mean that literally. But once you step into the gates of the Fort Henry National Historic Site, you’ll be taken back into the 19th century. Here, you’ll watch the military life. 

You’ll also watch the Fort Henry Guard perform their military demonstrations, Trust me; it’s always a great delight to see. With an experience guided tour, you’ll have no problem learning and identifying what to explore next.  

Being a 100-acre park, this park is a great hangout spot for friends. You can choose not to engage in any activity and just sit and talk instead. The landscape is littered with enough greenery that keeps the place beautiful and attractive. 

The park is perfect for almost anything you want to do with friends, family and even your kids. There’s the zoo that drops your jaw in wonder. The many activities in the park make it a fun place to be in. 

The Lion’s Valley Park isn’t your average park. I frequent the park because of its gorgeous nature and hiking trails. But that’s not all this part has to offer. There’s a section where you can visit to watch animals. 

Beyond that, you can go fishing in the park or get lost in the scenic view of the park. It’s surrounded by properly trimmed forests. The trees are a combination of dark and lighter shades of green coupled with brown. 

Also, the lake is a delight to watch. The shallow parts are clear, making it easy to see the marbles gathered at the bottom of the late.  

What better way to round up your trip to some of the best places in Ontario than with this beautiful conservation area? It is well-pruned and taken care of. Hence, it has all the beauty that nature carries. 

From the river gathered at the foot of hills and greenery in one part of the centre to the growing length of trees. There’s so much of nature’s beauty to soak in. Of course, there are many activities to tickle your fancy. 

With our exotic list of the best places to visit in Ontario, your trip to Ontario never has to be boring. You’ll realize that there’s so much to explore in Ontario. 

You’ll also encounter different cultures, events, and festivals that will change how you view the world. Depending on your personality type, you might even make new friends.

Have fun exploring Ontario, Canada. See you around!

More - Best Places to Visit, Canada:

• Best Places to Visit in Canada
• Best Places to Visit in Ontario, Canada
• Places to Visit in London, Ontario, Canada
• Best Places to Visit in BC (British Columbia), Canada
• Best Place to Visit in Victoria, BC, Canada
• Best Places to Visit in Surrey, BC, Canada
• Places to Visit on Vancouver Island, BC, Canada
• Places to Visit in Alberta, Canada

Charee Oisamoje is the founder of CanadaWiz. She leads the editorial team, which is comprised of subject matter experts that aim to create well-researched, highly detailed content related to studying, working, immigrating, and settling/living in Canada as a newcomer.

Charee's personal experiences as a Canadian immigrant and her professional competencies make her uniquely qualified on the subject matter.

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• Destinations

25 Best Places to Visit in Ontario, Canada

Last Updated By VacationIdea on March 15, 2024 in Canada

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

Niagara Falls

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

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

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

Thunder Bay

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

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

Good to know: Best Time to Visit Toronto

Georgian Bay

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

Greater Sudbury

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

Algonquin Provincial Park

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

Bruce Peninsula National Park

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

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

Lake Ontario

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

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

Mississauga

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

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

Niagara-on-the-Lake

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

Peterborough

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

Sault Ste. Marie

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

The Blue Mountains

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

Thousand Islands

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

More info: Where to Stay in Toronto

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

Wasaga Beach

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

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

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

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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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Visiting Canada in June: Is it the best time to visit?

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Canada is a country of great contrasts, from the sweeping prairies to the craggy coastlines. It’s also an incredibly diverse nation, home to people from all over the world who share their customs and traditions with one another. And Canada in June welcomes you to the best of sights, festivals, and natural wonders.

In June you can explore some of Canada’s most iconic locations: Newfoundland’s remote coastline, Quebec City with its stunning old city and picturesque canal-side streets, festivals in Montreal , and sightseeing with its cobbled streets, and European flair.

And along the way, you can enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and camping or go road tripping in Canada !

Visiting Canada in June: Summer in the Great White North

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you click one of them, we may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.

What season is June in Canada? 

June officially is the summer season in Canada. The summer season in Canada is an ideal time to visit and enjoy the many activities that the country has to offer. 

In June, although the summer peak season hasn’t yet begun, the days are warm and long. Hiking paths are accessible, as are the lakes and streams that are no longer frozen (yes Lake Louise would have thawed by now, in case you are wondering). 

And it is easy to see wildlife in provincial and national parks.

When is summer in Canada?  

The months of June through August are the official summer season. 

Canada seasons: Canada has four distinct seasons: spring, summer, fall, and winter. The monthly breakdown is as follows

• Spring: March, April , May
• Summer: June, July , August
• Fall: September , October , November
• Winter : December , January, February

Canada in June weather and temperatures: What is the weather like in Canada in June?

In June and generally in the summer in British Columbia or the west coast means sunshine, and in the inland, it could get very hot (up to 30-40°C).

Compare Canada Weather in June: 

What to pack for a trip to Canada in June?

June is summer in Canada, but certain destinations could still feel a little colder in the evening and early mornings. 

However, temperatures will be warm overall – so leave your parkas, gloves, and heavy woolens behind. 

Here is what you need to pack for Canada in the summer

• Tops and T-shirts
• Summer dresses and skirts
• Bottoms (pants, shorts, etc)
• Lightweight waterproof jacket (for hikes and when it rains)
• Light cardigan or fleece hoodie
• Walking and/or hiking shoes. Click to view my favorite one
• Moisture-wicking socks
• Travel documents (visa, tour and hotel bookings, insurance, etc.)

All of the items are available on Amazon Prime so they can be at your door in two days or less!

You’ll also want to pack sunscreen, insect repellent, and a hat, as the sun can be quite strong in Canada during the spring. 

Binoculars can come in handy for birdwatching, and a good camera is always important when traveling! We LOVE our Sony A6000 and Sony A7iii – and use them on all of our trips!

What can you expect to see in Canada in June?

If you’re a fan of the great outdoors, June is a perfect time to visit Canada. The weather is warm and sunny, but not too hot, making it ideal for hiking, biking, camping , and all sorts of other outdoor activities. 

You can also enjoy some lovely summertime activities like swimming, canoeing, and kayaking. 

For an extraordinary experience, visit the territories particularly Yukon, where you can chase the midnight sun (it gets sunny for 21 hours and also has a festival to celebrate it)!

And don’t forget to check out the amazing wildlife – Canada is home to some of the most beautiful and diverse animals in the world!

In Canada’s polar regions, you can still see wildlife in June and also experience warmer temperatures. With mostly clear, sunny days throughout the month, you will also find amazing shots to capture. 

Now if you’re more of a city person, there’s still plenty to do in Canada in June. Major Canadian cities come alive with summer events and festivals, ranging from music festivals to food and cultural festivals. 

There are also plenty of outdoor markets, farmers’ markets , and antique markets where you can shop for souvenirs or just enjoy a day out. And don’t forget the restaurants and bars – Canada has some of the best in the world!

Pro tip: As June is a popular time to visit Canada, you can expect a ton of crowds in major cities and parks. If some smaller towns have festivals, the population actually explodes, and finding accommodation is a pain, especially at the last minute. 

We recommend making summer trip plans in advance and also make reservations and bookings ahead of time. 

Festivals in Canada in June

The month of June is a great time to visit Canada because there are many fun activities and events happening. 

There are also many music festivals happening in different parts of the country, such as the Ever After Music, TD Toronto Jazz Festival, Escapade in Ottawa, or Sled Island in Calgary. 

• TD Toronto Jazz Festival: This event takes place towards the end of June in Toronto – a must-visit for jazz lovers!
• Montreal Jazz Festival 
• Sled Island Calgary: This is an annual five-day music and arts festival that takes place in Calgary, and it welcomes you to shows and exhibits from more than 300 artists, comedians, and filmmakers in multiple venues across the city. 
• Escapade Ottawa : Attend the electronic music festival in downtown Ottawa every June! 
• Ever Later Music : This electronic bass festival takes place in Kitchener in Ontario. It is considered one of the leading electronic bass festivals in North America.
• Formula One Canadian Grand Prix : This event takes place in Montreal in June every year. 
• Midnight Sun Festival in Yukon : Visit Dawson City for the Midnight Sun Festival, and experience fun and frolic with over 20+ hours of sunlight!

You can also attend food festivals in various places like Toronto , Edmonton, Calgary , etc. In most places, outdoor/seasonal farmer’s markets will be open for guests to enjoy. Banff holds its summer market from June until August. 

Many retailers also hold BBQs to engage with visitors and shoppers!

Best places to visit in Canada in June

From hiking and biking in the mountains to swimming and fishing at the lakes, there is something for everyone. You can also visit some of Canada’s iconic locations, such as Vancouver or Montreal, and participate in the many festivals that are taking place. 

There are many great places to visit in Canada during the month of June. Here are some of our favorites, 

Toronto and Niagara 

Toronto is a great place to visit in June. The weather is usually warm and sunny, and there are plenty of things to do. Some of the top attractions in Toronto include the CN Tower, the Royal Ontario Museum, and the Hockey Hall of Fame. 

There are also plenty of shopping malls and restaurants to explore. And don’t forget to check out the waterfront! You can go kayaking here, or enjoy a cruise to the Toronto Centre Island and picnic! 

Niagara Falls is a popular tourist destination because of its stunning waterfalls, and although busy, it is still a good time to visit and even stay back overnight to enjoy the evening outdoors. This is also a great time for a picnic. 

Accommodation: Find hotel and accommodation deals for Toronto

Banff and the Canadian Rockies

If you’re looking for a fun outdoor activity to do in June, consider exploring one of Canada’s national parks . There are dozens of parks to choose from, each with its own unique attractions. Some popular parks include Banff National Park , Jasper National Park, and Yoho National Park .

Banff National Park is located in the Canadian Rockies, and it’s one of the most popular parks in the country. June is a great time to visit because the weather is usually warm and there are plenty of activities to do.

Some of the top attractions in Banff National Park include the Banff Springs Hotel, Lake Louise, and Moraine Lake. There are also plenty of hiking trails and bike paths to explore. And don’t forget to check out the wildlife!

Banff town is busy in the summer, so be sure to book accommodation and reserve campsites ahead of time. 

Accommodation: Find hotel and accommodation deals for Banff

Calgary 

If you are heading to Banff, do a stop in Calgary to enjoy the lovely weather in the downtown area. Visit the Calgary Zoo or outdoor museums like Fort Calgary and Heritage Park. 

The usual attractions like Calgary Tower, Glenbow Museum, etc. are open. And so are local and seasonal summer festivals and food trucks!

You can check out Prince’s Island Park for live music performances. 

Accommodation: Find hotel and accommodation deals for Calgary

Vancouver 

Visiting Vancouver in June is a great experience because the weather is usually mild and there are plenty of activities to enjoy. One popular activity is exploring Stanley Park, which is a large park located on the edge of downtown Vancouver. 

The park has a beautiful seawall that you can walk or bike along, as well as lots of forest trails to explore. 

If you’re looking for something more urban, Vancouver also has a great Chinatown and Gastown district that is worth checking out.

Accommodation: Find hotel and accommodation deals for Vancouver

Montreal 

Montreal is a city in the Canadian province of Quebec . It is the second-most populous municipality in Quebec after Montreal. The city is located on the Island of Montreal, which took its name from Mount Royal, the triple-peaked hill in the city. 

Montreal is known for its festivals and events, including the Montreal International Jazz Festival, and the Formula One Canadian Grand Prix. 

Accommodation: Find hotel and accommodation deals for Montreal

Saskatoon 

Saskatoon is a city in central Saskatchewan, Canada . It is on the South Saskatchewan River and is the largest city in the province. Saskatoon is bisected by the South Saskatchewan River which created a natural moat around the town’s downtown core. 

The river valley parks system, which stretches from downtown to the outskirts of town, offers a variety of activities and features such as fishing, golfing, hiking, and bird watching. Saskatoon is also home to Wanuskewin Heritage Park, a National Historic Site of Canada that celebrates indigenous culture – a great visit in the summer!

Accommodation: Find hotel and accommodation deals for Saskatoon

Fundy National Park

Fundy National Park in New Brunswick is a beautiful place to visit in the summer. There are many activities to enjoy, such as hiking, biking, and canoeing. The park is also home to some interesting wildlife, such as black bears and moose. 

Cape Breton Island 

In the summer, Cape Breton is a fantastic destination in Canada’s Maritime provinces. Visitors to Cape Breton can enjoy hiking in Cape Breton Highlands National Park, swimming at beautiful beaches, and soaking in the views along the Cabot Trail. 

Prince Edward Island

Prince Edward Island is a great place to visit in June. The weather is usually mild, and there are plenty of things to do. Some popular activities include hiking, biking, fishing, and golfing. There are also several museums and historic sites worth visiting like the Beaconsfield Historic House in the capital city.

Be sure to check out the local cuisine while you’re in Prince Edward Island. The island is famous for its seafood dishes, such as lobster and mussels.

Accommodation: Find hotel and accommodation deals for Charlottetown (PEI)

If you’re looking to explore Canada in June, Yukon is a great place to visit. There are many things to do in this beautiful part of the country, such as hiking, fishing, and boating. 

You can also visit the Yukon Wildlife Preserve to see bears, caribou, moose, and other animals in their natural habitat. 

The best part of visiting Yukon in June and July is that you can experience up to 21 hours of daylight, called the mid-night summer. This is perfect for exploring, photography, and road trips!

Accommodation: Find hotel and accommodation deals for Whitehorse

More Canada Travel Tips for June

June is a great time to visit Canada because the weather is usually mild and there are many fun activities to do. However, it’s important to dress appropriately for the weather, since the temperatures can vary depending on the region. In popular places, the temperatures are usually in the mid 20’s degrees Celsius. This is a great time to go hiking, biking, or camping in the beautiful Canadian parks.  Be sure to pack your insect repellent, though, as there are mosquitoes and black flies in abundance during the summer months!

June is a popular month to visit Canada, it is also ideal in terms of weather, climate, and accessibility of hiking trails and road trips. Plus this is great to enjoy everything Canada is known for – outdoorsy and natural wonders (including the midnight sun).  Between the months of May and June is a fantastic time to go to Canada! There aren’t many tourists, so prices are reasonable.  The summer tourist season has officially begun, although the first two weeks of June are generally quiet (and many attractions are still closed). If we were to pick a personal favorite, it would be September. September is the start of the fall or autumn season, and in this month the weather is still warm, and you can check out fall foliage in popular destinations. It is still possible to hit the trails, road trips, and all this without the maddening crowds!

In Toronto in June, the weather is typically pleasant and warm. The average temperature is 19.3°C (67°F), with a minimum of 13.9°C (57°F) and a maximum of 24.6°C (76.3°F).

No matter what you’re interested in, there’s something happening in Canada in June that will appeal to you. So come on over and enjoy everything the Great White North has to offer!

Start planning your holidays!

More Canada Posts

• Canada in the spring
• Canada in the winter
• Canada in the fall

Pin: What to expect in Canada in June? Canada Travel Guide

Mayuri Kashyap is an Indian Canadian traveler, writer and photographer based in Alberta. She moved to Toronto as a student in 2009, and has been calling Canada home ever since. She started the blog - Canada Crossroads - to share her travel and living experiences in the Great White North!

A History graduate and an MBA, Mayuri is a destinations marketing expert. She loves traveling with her husband, Salil and soaking in experiences across Canada, India and Europe.

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

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

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

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

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

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

It’s larger than France and Spain combined!

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

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

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

Let’s get stuck in…

Travellerspoint

How to get to Ontario

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

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

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

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

By public transport

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

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

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

By car/motorhome

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

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

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

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

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

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

You can find more information about the ferry routes here!

Getting Around Ontario

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Bus travel is another widely available transportation method in Ontario!

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

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

Where to Stay in Ontario

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

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

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

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

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

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

15 Best Places to Visit in Ontario

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

2. Algonquin Provincial Park

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

3. Niagara Falls

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

4. Niagara-on-the-Lake

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

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

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

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

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

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

See them all on an Ontario Wine Country Tour !

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

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

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

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

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

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

6. Pukaskwa National Park

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

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

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

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

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

A remote location without the crowds. Sounds like paradise!

7. Bruce Peninsula

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

9. Killarney Provincial Park

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

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

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

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

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

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

10. Thunder Bay

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

11. Manitoulin Island

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

12. Thousand Islands National Park

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

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

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

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

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

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

13. Prince Edward

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

14. Pancake Bay Provincial Park

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

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

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

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

Other attractions include Coppermine Point Lighthouse and Batchawana Falls.

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

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

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

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

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

Ontario Travel Tips and FAQ

When is a good time to visit ontario.

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

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

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

What is a good budget for Ontario?

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

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

Can you just book a tour for Ontario?

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

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

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

Is Ontario safe?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

What is the weather like in Ontario?

Ontario enjoys a continental climate with four distinct seasons. 

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

Where to go after Ontario

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

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

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

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

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

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

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20+ Best Places to Visit in June for Couples (2024)

H ave you ever wondered if June is truly the perfect month for a romantic getaway with your significant other? Here are the best places to visit in June for couples!

Each offering a unique blend of charm and beauty, these destinations are sure to captivate your hearts and create lasting memories.

From the tranquil shores of Cape Cod to the majestic peaks of the Rocky Mountains , the possibilities for your June adventure are endless.

If you’re seeking a charming coastal getaway, Cape Cod beckons with its beaches and vibrant seaside towns.

In early June, Cape Cod boasts warm weather perfect for outdoor activities like beach strolls and cycling along the coast.

The coastal charm of this New England destination sets the scene for a romantic getaway filled with breathtaking sunsets and leisurely walks on the sand.

Indulge in delicious seafood dining at waterfront restaurants and explore the iconic lighthouses that dot the Cape.

Whether you’re looking for relaxation or adventure, Cape Cod offers the ideal setting for a memorable couples’ retreat in a place where the beauty of the beaches meets the allure of seaside living.

San Francisco

San Francisco, with its iconic Golden Gate Bridge and vibrant cultural scene, beckons couples to explore its diverse neighborhoods and stunning bay views.

The summer months in San Francisco boast great weather with mild temperatures perfect for romantic strolls.

Take a scenic drive along the coast, enjoy historic sites like Alcatraz Island, and embrace the charm of this windy city.

Consider a road trip to nearby wineries or indulge in delicious food at the renowned eateries.

Whether you’re walking hand in hand through Golden Gate Park or admiring the city skyline from Twin Peaks, San Francisco offers a mix of activities for couples to enjoy together during the hot days of June.

Mackinac Island

Explore the enchanting charm of Mackinac Island as you discover its historic landmarks and picturesque landscapes.

• Best Things to Do in Mackinac Island:
• Indulge in delicious fudge from the island’s famous fudge shops .
• Take a leisurely ride in a horse-drawn carriage to explore the island.
• Immerse yourself in the vibrant music festivals that happen during June.
• Stay at the iconic Grand Hotel for a luxurious experience.
• Enjoy the perfect time for outdoor activities with pleasant weather.

Mackinac Island offers a great time for couples looking to unwind and create lasting memories.

Whether you prefer relaxing at the Grand Hotel or exploring the island’s natural beauty , there’s no shortage of ways to have an unforgettable experience with your loved one.

Nestled in the heart of the South Pacific, Bora Bora beckons with its crystal-clear waters and overwater bungalows. Offering couples a romantic paradise like no other.

Imagine strolling hand in hand on white sandy beaches lined with swaying palm trees , the sun casting a warm glow over the luxury resorts dotting the shoreline.

Bora Bora is a honeymoon destination that promises unforgettable moments.

Whether you’re snorkeling in the vibrant underwater world or simply relaxing in your overwater bungalow.

The island’s beauty is unrivaled, with its clear waters inviting you to explore and unwind in this idyllic setting.

For a truly magical and romantic getaway, Bora Bora is the perfect choice .

With its stunning blue waters and majestic mountain backdrop, Lake Tahoe captivates visitors seeking a blend of natural beauty and outdoor adventure.

• Explore sandy beaches for a relaxing day by the water
• Engage in thrilling water sports like jet skiing and paddleboarding
• Take a voyage on a scenic boat tour to appreciate the lake’s grandeur
• Take a dip in the cool waters for an invigorating swim
• Indulge in fine dining with picturesque lake views

Immerse yourselves in the tranquil surroundings of Lake Tahoe, unwind in hot springs, savor wine tasting experiences, or opt for a romantic hot air balloon ride above the breathtaking landscape.

Discover the charm of nearby national parks , adding a touch of wilderness to your couples’ getaway.

French Polynesia

French Polynesia beckons with its idyllic islands, inviting couples to immerse themselves in paradise’s beauty and tranquility.

Known for its breathtaking scenery, Bora Bora stands out with its white sand beaches and crystal clear lagoons.

Imagine a romantic getaway in overwater bungalows perched above turquoise waters. Offering a private oasis for you and your loved one.

This tropical paradise is a top honeymoon destination, offering luxury resorts that cater to every desire.

Whether you seek relaxation on the beach or adventure in the water, French Polynesia provides the perfect backdrop for a romantic escape.

Let the serene surroundings and warm hospitality of this destination create unforgettable memories for you and your partner.

Grand Canyon

Discover the awe-inspiring beauty of the Grand Canyon, a natural wonder that captivates visitors with its vastness and stunning geological formations.

The Grand Canyon National Park offers a plethora of activities for couples to enjoy, from adventurous hikes in the Rocky Mountains to breathtaking views at the South Rim.

Witness the majestic Colorado River winding through the canyon as you catch a mesmerizing sunset.

Camping under the starlit sky adds a touch of romance, while exploring the quieter North Rim provides a peaceful escape from the crowds.

Whether you seek adventure or tranquility, the Grand Canyon promises an unforgettable experience for you and your partner.

Amalfi Coast

Nestled along the rugged coastline of southern Italy, the Amalfi Coast beckons with its charming villages and breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea .

This romantic destination offers coastal beauty at every turn, with luxury resorts perched on cliffs overlooking the azure waters.

Take a scenic drive along the winding roads lined with lemon groves, leading to historic sites where you can immerse yourself in the region’s rich past.

Indulge in exquisite Italian cuisine, savoring every bite of fresh seafood and traditional dishes.

Whether you’re strolling hand in hand through the narrow streets of Positano or exploring the ancient ruins of Pompeii nearby, the Amalfi Coast promises an unforgettable experience for couples seeking a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure.

Explore the vibrant city of San Diego, where sunny beaches and a lively cultural scene await couples seeking a blend of relaxation and excitement.

• Sunny Days: Enjoy the perfect summer weather with plenty of sunshine.
• Romantic Beaches: Stroll along the beautiful beaches hand in hand.
• Pleasant Temperatures: Experience the ideal climate for outdoor activities .
• Waterfront Dining: Indulge in delicious meals with stunning waterfront views.
• Whale Watching: Begin on a memorable whale watching adventure together.

San Diego offers the perfect setting for a romantic getaway, with its charming atmosphere, abundance of outdoor activities, and opportunities to witness beautiful sunsets.

Whether you’re looking to relax on the beach or explore the city’s vibrant culture, San Diego has something special for every couple.

Grand Teton National Park

Amidst the majestic peaks of the Rocky Mountains, Grand Teton National Park beckons with its breathtaking landscapes and abundant wildlife.

June is a wonderful time to visit this gem in North America, as the higher elevations start to come alive after the winter thaw.

The park is part of the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem, known for its great migration of animals.

With average temperatures making it pleasant for outdoor activities, Grand Teton National Park is one of the best places to explore in June.

As it’s the peak season, you’ll have the opportunity to witness the beauty of this park in full swing. Making it one of the most popular destinations for nature-loving couples.

Glacier National Park

With its stunning alpine scenery and pristine wilderness, Glacier National Park in June offers a mesmerizing experience for couples seeking adventure and natural beauty.

• Hiking Trails : Explore a variety of trails amidst the Rocky Mountains.
• Wildlife Viewing : Spot bears, elk, and other wildlife in their natural habitat.
• Scenic Drives : Take a scenic drive along the Going-to-the-Sun Road for breathtaking views.
• Camping Sites : Immerse yourself in nature by camping under the starry skies.
• Alpine Lakes : Discover the beauty of crystal-clear alpine lakes perfect for a romantic picnic.

Glacier National Park in the summer months is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts.

Providing endless opportunities to connect with each other and with nature in one of America’s most stunning national parks.

Yellowstone National Park

June at Yellowstone National Park beckons with its geothermal wonders and abundant wildlife.

Promising an unforgettable adventure for couples seeking natural marvels and enchanting experiences.

The park’s iconic geysers, including Old Faithful, erupt majestically against the summer sky, creating a romantic backdrop.

Imagine hiking hand in hand through the lush forests, spotting bison, bears, and elk along the way.

The warm days and cool nights of June offer the perfect setting for cozy moments under the stars.

Don’t miss the chance to witness the park’s breathtaking waterfalls and colorful hot springs.

Yellowstone National Park in June is a dreamy escape for couples looking to immerse themselves in the beauty of nature and create lasting memories together.

Martha’s Vineyard

As you explore Martha’s Vineyard, you’ll discover a charming island off the coast of Massachusetts that offers a tranquil escape for couples seeking a romantic getaway.

• Scenic Beauty: Enjoy picturesque views of the Atlantic Ocean.
• Lighthouse Tours: Visit the historic Edgartown Lighthouse for a romantic experience.
• Wine Tasting: Explore local vineyards and savor delicious wines.
• Beach Picnics: Relax on pristine beaches and have a romantic picnic.
• Bike Rides: Rent bicycles and explore the island at your own pace.

Martha’s Vineyard provides the perfect setting for couples to unwind and reconnect amidst stunning landscapes and cozy coastal towns.

Whether strolling hand in hand along the beach or indulging in fresh seafood, this destination offers a romantic retreat for you and your loved one.

Virginia Beach

For an enchanting seaside escape perfect for couples seeking relaxation and adventure, Virginia Beach beckons with its pristine shores and vibrant coastal atmosphere.

Located on the East Coast, this beach destination offers a summer getaway filled with romantic retreats and oceanfront hotels.

Enjoy a variety of boardwalk activities, from strolling hand in hand to trying out exciting water sports together.

Virginia Beach exudes coastal charm with its beautiful beaches and lively atmosphere.

Making it an ideal spot for couples to unwind and create lasting memories.

Explore the area’s historic sites for a touch of culture and heritage. Adding a unique element to your romantic retreat by the ocean.

Block Island

Nestled off the coast of Rhode Island, Block Island invites you to explore its unspoiled beauty and serene charm.

Offering a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

• Summer : Enjoy the perfect weather for a romantic getaway.
• New England : Immerse yourself in the classic charm of this region.
• Beach Destination : Relax on stunning beaches with your loved one.
• Outdoor Activities : Hike, bike, or kayak through the island’s scenic landscapes.
• Seafood : Indulge in fresh, local seafood at charming coastal eateries.

Discover Block Island’s coastal beauty, historic architecture, and the thrill of sailing together in this idyllic setting.

It’s the ideal destination for couples seeking a peaceful retreat filled with love and adventure.

Northern Lights

Explore the mesmerizing phenomenon of the Northern Lights, a breathtaking natural light display that illuminates the night sky with vibrant colors and dancing patterns.

The Northern Lights are one of the best honeymoon destinations, especially during the winter months when they’re most active.

This spectacle is at its peak during the high season, making it a great time to witness this enchanting display.

For a better time to catch this natural wonder, head to locations where there’s easy access to clear night skies.

Keep an eye out for good deals on accommodations and tours to enjoy the Northern Lights at their highest point.

It’s a magical experience you won’t want to miss!

Rocky Mountains

Discover the majestic peaks and rugged beauty of the Rocky Mountains on your next romantic getaway.

• Explore the stunning vistas of Grand Teton National Park.
• Immerse yourselves in the untouched wilderness of Glacier National Park.
• Witness the geothermal wonders of Yellowstone National Park.
• Relax by the crystal-clear waters of Lake Tahoe.
• Experience the surreal landscape of White Sands.

The Rocky Mountains offer a perfect blend of adventure and tranquility. Making it an ideal destination for couples seeking a romantic escape.

Whether you enjoy hiking, wildlife spotting, or simply cozying up together surrounded by nature’s grandeur, the Rocky Mountains provide a picturesque backdrop for your romantic retreat.

Unwind in the serene beauty of this iconic mountain range and create unforgettable memories with your loved one.

Discover the allure and variety of the East Coast as you set off on a romantic journey filled with historic sites, picturesque beaches, and vibrant cities.

In June, the East Coast offers couples an array of enchanting destinations.

Explore the charming streets of Martha’s Vineyard, relax on the sandy shores of Cape Cod, or escape to the tranquility of Block Island.

For a touch of history and natural beauty, visit Mackinac Island or enjoy the lively atmosphere of Virginia Beach.

Whether you prefer the bustling city life of San Francisco or the serene coastal vibes, the East Coast has something for every couple seeking a memorable getaway.

Embrace the magic of June on the East Coast and create unforgettable moments together.

White Sands

Wandering through the endless expanse of White Sands National Park, you’ll find yourself surrounded by glistening gypsum dunes that create a mesmerizing landscape unlike any other.

• Discover the beauty of New Mexico’s unique desert landscape.
• Set off on an outdoor adventure amidst the rolling sand dunes.
• White Sands offers a romantic getaway for couples seeking serenity.
• Immerse yourself in the park’s natural beauty and tranquility.
• Hike along picturesque trails and be awed by stunning sunset views over the dunes.

White Sands is the perfect destination for those craving a mix of relaxation and exploration in a setting that feels truly magical.

June is widely regarded as the best time of year for couples to embark on a romantic getaway, and Lake Garda emerges as a great place to make those cherished memories.

Nestled in the heart of Northern Italy, Lake Garda beckons during one of its most popular months, offering a perfect blend of enchanting scenery and delightful weather.

The warm temperatures and longer days create an idyllic setting for couples seeking a romantic escape.

Whether exploring the charming lakeside villages, indulging in a serene boat ride, or savoring delicious Italian cuisine with a view, Lake Garda in June provides an enchanting backdrop for love to flourish.

Central Park

June marks the start of summer in the United States, and for couples seeking an excellent choice for a romantic escape, Central Park in New York City stands out as an ideal destination.

As the end of the month transitions into the beginning of summer, Central Park blossoms into a lush haven. Providing a picturesque backdrop for couples to explore.

Despite the possibility of rain showers during the rainy season, the park’s charm remains unmatched.

Offering a perfect setting for a short walk hand-in-hand or a leisurely picnic on its verdant lawns.

With the city’s vibrant energy and the allure of live music echoing through the park, June becomes an enchanting time for couples to share intimate moments amidst the beauty of Central Park.

South America

Late June in South America ushers in the dry season, making it the prime time for couples seeking the best way to enjoy the continent’s enchanting destinations.

The late June timeframe conveniently avoids the onset of the hurricane season, making it the perfect place for couples to indulge in romantic getaways without weather-related concerns.

With diverse landscapes, rich cultural experiences, and an array of activities, South America during late June offers couples the best of both worlds.

An unforgettable romantic escape and a chance to explore the continent at its most inviting.

Masai Mara National Reserve

In the early days of summer, the Masai Mara National Reserve emerges as a good reason for couples to embark on a memorable journey.

June marks the shoulder season in this iconic Kenyan wildlife haven, ensuring a good time for an intimate safari experience.

The landscapes are in full bloom during the month of June, creating a lush backdrop for romantic encounters amidst the untamed beauty of the African savannah.

With the wildlife at its most active and the Great Migration beginning its awe-inspiring spectacle, couples have every good reason to choose the Masai Mara as their destination.

June Destinations

As late spring gracefully transitions into early summer, couples in search of the best June honeymoon destinations find themselves at the crossroads of enchanting possibilities.

With average highs creating an ideal climate for romantic escapades, the end of June brings forth a myriad of options for those craving warm waters and unforgettable experiences.

From vibrant city escapes with fun festivals to serene beaches with an inclusive resort, the possibilities are boundless.

This provides the perfect opportunity for couples to secure a good deal on their dream destination.

Ensuring that their honeymoon becomes a cherished chapter marked by romance, relaxation, and the allure of enchanting locales.

Final Thoughts: Best Places to Visit in June for Couples

So, what’re you waiting for? Pack your bags and whisk your partner away to one of these incredible destinations this June.

Whether you’re seeking relaxation, adventure, or a mix of both, there’s something for every couple to enjoy.

Create lasting memories, experience new cultures, and strengthen your bond in these romantic getaways.

Don’t miss out on the chance to make this June a month to remember with the one you love. Happy travels !

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