ontario tourist towns

30 Best Small Towns in Ontario You Need to Visit (2024)

Posted on March 7, 2024

Categories Blog , Canada , Ontario , Small Town Guides , Travel Guides

Do you love cute towns and charming villages? These are the best small towns in Ontario to visit. Whether you’re planning a road trip around Ontario or seeking some of the best Ontario beaches this summer, I’m sure you’ll stumble upon some beautiful and adorable communities along the way.

As a local expert and longtime travel blogger residing in Ontario, I’ve visited so many cute towns in Ontario over the years. I’m so excited to share my favorites with you. There are small towns near Toronto, small towns near Ottawa, and pretty villages all over the province.

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Many of these destinations are historic, have gorgeous natural features, or other unique attributes that make them fantastic places to visit. Others have really fun community gatherings or festivals each year to celebrate what makes them locally famous.

Table of Contents

Best Small Towns in Ontario: Almonte

Almonte is right up there with the most beautiful towns in Ontario. It’s one of the best small towns near Ottawa that you can visit on a day trip or a road trip. It is a historic mill town with a beautiful river running through it. One of the best things to do in Almonte is go for a stroll on the Almonte River Walk, a boardwalk beside the river.

In town, there are many picturesque shops, cafes, and restaurants. Wander past the old architecture with a coffee in your hand. Almonte is a great place to spend the day, although you can likely hit up a few Ontario small towns in one day (Almonte, Merrickville, and perhaps even Perth if you time everything out just right).

Before you head out of town, make sure you stop at Healthy Food Technologies. They are a donut company that’s managed to discover a way to bake donuts at 50-70% less fat than regular donuts. They have a wide selection of vegan doughnuts, too.

Recommended Place to Stay: Perth Parkside Inn and Spa in Perth

You might have heard of Bath in England, but there’s a Bath, Ontario, too. It will be a bit of a running theme through this article as you’ll discover many small towns in Ontario are named for famous ones in Europe. Bath is a delightful and quaint town in Ontario on Lake Ontario.

There are a number of adorable shops in town, including galleries, gift shops and a bookshop. Stop for a meal or a coffee in town, too. Don’t miss Anderwood Studio, Lakeside Studio Gallery, Books on Main, and the Lodge Coffee House.

Relax in the local parks by the waterfront. Centennial Park has an adorable little bridge and you’ll also see many ducks and geese. As Bath is such a small town and you’ll likely see it all in an hour, it is the perfect stop before taking the ferry across to Amherst Island.

Recommended Place to Stay: Seasons Gallery Retreat in Napanee

Bayfield combines one of the most beautiful small towns in Ontario with some of the bluest waters you’ll ever see. Gazing out to Lake Huron, you’ll swear that you’re in the Caribbean and not Ontario. Bayfield is a community in the municipality of Bluewater in Huron County.

From Clan Gregor Square, a pretty greenspace in town, venture down Main Street to all of the shops, restaurants, and cafes. Rosie’s Ice Cream Shoppe is my favorite place to stop for ice cream as there’s always a vegan soft service flavor available. Don’t miss all of the boutiques with wonderful gifts. Coffee lovers, grab a cup of coffee at Shopbike Coffee Roasters.

Walk to the end of the street and take the Mara Street Walkway down to the marina. From the marina, you can soak up the sunshine at the Bayfield Pier Beach (one of the best beaches in Ontario ) and take a stroll to the end of the pier. You’ll be totally amazed by these turquoise blue waters.

Recommended Place to Stay:   The Ashwood Inn  in Bayfield

Best Small Towns in Ontario: Bracebridge

Bracebridge is one of the best small towns in Ontario as it’s a pretty village surrounded by beautiful nature. Bracebridge is home to five waterfalls and an assortment of hiking trails, including the Trans Canada Trail. One of those waterfalls, Bracebridge Falls, is right in the middle of town. The town was quite literally built around this waterfall!

There are many shops, restaurants and cafes to check out in Bracebridge in “Muskoka’s Downtown”. Go for a walk down the main street towards the waterfall. On the way, there are many historic plaques where you can learn about the history of the town. Several historic sites include its Clock Tower, Woodchester Villa, and the Silver Bridge.

Recommended Place to Stay: Inn at the Falls in Bracebridge

Dundas (Hamilton)

I can easily state that this is one of the best small towns to live in Ontario because I grew up there myself. For many, many years, Dundas was its own small town. In recent years, it was amalgamated into Hamilton, so it’s part of the city of Hamilton now. However, it’ll always be Dundas to me.

There are so many things to do in Dundas like go shopping on the main street downtown, go for a walk at the Dundas Driving Park, or attend one of the annual festivals (the Dundas Cactus Festival is the big one!).

Aside from the quaint downtown core, Dundas is best known for its beautiful conservation areas and hiking trails. The Dundas Valley Conservation Area is always a treat to visit with its extensive trail system, the Hermitage ruins, and the old Victorian train station. Dundas also has two waterfalls (Tews Falls and Websters Falls ), as well as amazing lookout point called the Dundas Peak .

Recommended Place to Stay: The SoMa Furnished Residences in Hamilton

Beautiful Towns in Ontario: Elora

Elora is one of my favourite small towns in Ontario, and it’s the perfect weekend getaway from Toronto or Hamilton. Elora is a beautiful village with a great combination of outdoor adventures and small town charm. There’s a stunning gorge, many parks and green space, and a quaint downtown core.

You can see all of the best things to do in Elora in my travel guide. To give you a brief overview, you definitely need to experience the Elora Gorge and the Grand River, the shops of downtown Elora, afternoon tea at the Wild Tart, and all of the quirky art work around town.

There are several festivals in Elora, such as the Elora Festival, Riverfest Elora, Elora’s Monster Month and Christmas in Elora. In the summer, don’t miss the Elora Farmers Market. For a luxurious vacation, pamper yourself at the Elora Mill with a spa day.

Recommended Place to Stay:   The Etherington Suites in Elora

Just down the road from Elora, you will find the Scottish town of Fergus, Ontario. Spend a weekend in Elora and don’t miss stopping in Fergus on your way back home. The towns of Elora and Fergus have been named Ontario’s most beautiful villages.

Fergus is best known for its scenic river lookouts surrounded by a limestone gorge, as well as its annual Scottish Festival and Highland Games. Don’t miss admiring the Fergus Templin Gardens or browsing some of the town’s antique shops for treasures. Of course, there are also Scottish gift shops where you’ll find all kinds of goodies.

Galt (Cambridge)

Galt is technically a part of Cambridge Ontario, but it’s a small village within a city that you must visit. Originally known as Shade’s Mills, Galt is full of amazing old architecture, majestic Victorian homes, and beautiful waterfront paths.

There are a few colourful murals and street art works to see when you’re walking around Galt. Stop by the boutiques, cafes and restaurants while you’re there. The Cambridge Farmers Market operates out of Galt. It’s one of the oldest markets in Canada, dating back to 1830.

Southworks Antiques is an incredible shopping experience, especially if you love nostalgia and collectibles. It’s the largest antique mall in Canada, and it’s located right in the middle of Galt.

Recommended Place to Stay: The Grand River Getaway in Cambridge

Best Small Towns in Ontario: Gananoque

Gananoque is the Canadian gateway to the 1000 Islands , and it’s the largest community in the region. With that said, it’s still an adorable small town (a population of about 5,000 year long residents) that you’ll want to wander around and explore on foot or bicycle.

The town’s name is pronounced  Gan-an-aw-kway , but it’s simply known as  Gan  to the locals. It’s right along the St. Lawrence River, so you’ll be able to soak up those beautiful waterfront views from the local parks and restaurant patios. 

Be sure to go for a walk on the Gananoque Trail System, which takes you through local parks and city streets. Enjoy a pint on the patio at Gan Brewing Company. Go shopping on Gananoque’s main street and see if you can find all of the painted flower barrels. Of course, you’ll want to explore the Thousand Islands themselves, which are among Canada’s most beautiful islands .

Joel Stone Park has a tiny lighthouse and it’s a great place to relax beneath a shady tree. Naturally, you won’t want to miss taking a boat tour or kayaking tour of the 1000 Islands when you’re here. You can also go hiking at the nearby Thousand Islands National Park .

Recommended Place to Stay: Colonial Resort & Spa in Gananoque

Prettiest Towns in Ontario: Goderich

Goderich has gained the reputation as “ the prettiest town in Canada “. It has historic charm, natural beauty, and astoundingly stunning sunsets. First, go for a wander around The Square, the hub of Goderich. The town has a distinct layout and lots of intriguing architecture. You can download a free audio guide by Huron County Historic Walking Tours for more insight.

Walk down to the lighthouse and then down to the beach. The town actually has a few beaches, so you can walk between them all and choose your favourite one. Goderich is also one starting point for the Guelph to Goderich Rail Trail . Walk across the Menesetung Bridge for amazing scenery of Goderich and beyond.

Recommended Place to Stay: Benmiller Inn and Spa in Goderich

There are so many amazing things to do in Grand Bend, Ontario , especially during the summer months. One of the most picturesque freshwater lakes, Lake Huron, has a stretch of coastline called Ontario’s Blue Coast. Grand Bend and Grand Bend Beach are right along this expanse of white, powdery sand with twinkling, Caribbean blue waters.

Grand Bend isn’t just home to one of the  best beaches in Ontario . There are numerous adventures and reasons to visit with something for every kind of traveler: the outdoor adventurer, the foodie, and the beach bum. Check out the local wineries, browse the shops on the main drag, and you need to stay for those gorgeous Grand Bend sunsets.

Recommended Place to Stay:   Colonial Hotel and Suites  in Grand Bend

Greater Napanee

Greater Napanee is a fantastic home base for exploring Napanee, Bath, Amherst Island and beyond. There are so many cute towns to visit in Ontario within Lennox and Addington County . Napanee itself has a wonderful downtown core with historic buildings, shops, and restaurants. A few of my favourite spots are Starlet, Coffee Cravings, and Ellena’s Cafe and Pantry.

Go for a walk through Springside Park and along the waterfront boardwalk to Napanee Conservation Park, admiring Napanee Falls on the way. The Waterfront River Pub has a pontoon boat cruise departing from its dock where you can pair a meal and a drink with beautiful scenery.

Best Small Towns in Ontario: Huntsville

Huntsville is an amazing home base for hikers and outdoor adventurers. You’ll find some of the best Ontario parks near Huntsville, as well as great walking paths right in town. Just outside of Huntsville, don’t miss Arrowhead Provincial Park or Hardy Lake Provincial Park for waterfalls, scenic lookouts, and incredible lake views.

For art lovers, Huntsville has a flourishing arts scene. The Group of Seven Outdoor Gallery features over 30 murals dotted throughout downtown Huntsville and Muskoka. Check out the local food and beverage scene in Huntsville, too. The Huntsville Brewhouse, Mill on Main, and Affogato Café + Gelato are all spots that I recommend.

Recommended Place to Stay: Deerhurst Resort in Huntsville

Kincardine is one of the prettiest towns in Ontario, especially if you love quaint downtowns, lighthouses, cozy parks and sprawling beaches. It’s known as Ontario’s Scottish Destination. Between Kincardine and Fergus, you could definitely put together a Scottish-themed road trip of Ontario.

Station Beach is the main beach in town where there’s lots of space to lay down your towels and soak up the sun.  There is co-ed beach volleyball every Friday at 7pm. Furthermore, if the conditions are just right, this is one of the best spots in Canada to go surfing!

For those seeking peaceful places to go for a walk, look no further than Geddes Park. There’s a small labyrinth with a “Chalice” design, surrounded by bright and beautiful blooms. You’ll find street art all over town, whether it’s just off the main downtown strip or down by the beach. Coffee lovers, make a stop at The Daily Grind for a warm or iced beverage.

Recommended Place to Stay: Inn at the Harbour in Kincardine

Did you know that Kingsville is the southernmost town in Canada? It’s on the same latitude as northern California and it’s also one of the warmest places in Canada, too. In the 19th century, Kingsville was dubbed “Canada’s Paradise Garden” as it was an agriculturally productive region. It’s right on the edge of Lake Erie, and it’s home to dozens of vineyards and farms.

Even if you don’t consider yourself to be a foodie, there are so many reasons to visit Kingsville. It’s an amazing weekend getaway if you’re up for a  road trip in Ontario . Spend the day at Estate of Health for a yoga class, Nordic spa circuit, or numerous spa treatments.

Visit the retail shop for Pelee Island Winery, sample some wine, and bring a few bottles home with you. There are fantastic shops in town like the Local Market, featuring handmade goods by local artisans, and Dutch Boys Chocolate. There are coffee shops, breweries, and more to visit in Kingsville, too.

Recommended Place to Stay: Inn 15 Loft Suites in Kingsville

Beautiful Towns in Ontario: Merrickville

Merrickville is one of the best small towns in Ontario as there’s so much to see and do there. For a small town, it’s bursting with historic sites and village charm. Known as “the Jewel of the Rideau”, it’s a wonderful getaway on the Kingston-Ottawa Rideau Heritage Route. Catch glimpses of the locks and the Rideau Canal, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Merrickville also has an amazing arts scene as the home of glassblowers, potters, painters and more. There are lots of boutiques and cafes on the dazzling main street, where every storefront seems to be decorated with greenery and flowers. There are even some old ruins in town that I’m sure you’ll stumble upon. I truly adored Merrickville and can’t wait to return.

Recommended Place to Stay: Merrickville Guest Suites in Merrickville

Niagara-on-the-Lake

Niagara-on-the-Lake is the best small town near Niagara Falls and almost feels completely opposite to the spectacle of Niagara Falls and Clifton Hill. Naturally, Niagara-on-the-Lake is best known for being an incredible wine region with dozens upon dozens of wineries to experience. We embarked on a wine tour with Niagara Vintage Wine tours that we loved. Also, we’ve frequented many Niagara wineries on their own, too.

Niagara region is a wonderful place to go cycling or hiking by the Niagara River. However, don’t miss simply wandering around Niagara-on-the-Lake itself. The main street is lined with boutiques, coffee shops and fine dining restaurants. Zees Grill is a fantastic restaurant, and you can also spend the night at the attached Shaw Club Hotel. The Shaw Festival is another reason why so many people love Niagara-on-the-Lake.

Recommended Place to Stay: Pillar and Post in Niagara-on-the-Lake

Otterville is one of the most quaint towns in Ontario that you probably haven’t heard of before. It’s a historic village between Woodstock and Tillsonburg, Ontario, built around the Otter River. There are a surprising number of things to see and do considering the small size of the village, including interesting natural features and historic sites.

You can paddle on the Otter River or go for a guided historical tour of Otterville to learn from a local. Since Otterville is such a small town to explore, I suggest pairing a visit to Otterville with the nearby town of Tillsonburg, Ontario.

Recommended Place to Stay: Holiday Inn Express in Woodstock

Best Small Towns in Ontario: Paris

Paris is one of the most beautiful towns in Ontario, named the Prettiest Little Town in Ontario by  Harrowsmith Magazine . Once you catch a glimpse of Paris, it will surely capture your heart, too. Start on Paris’ main street and don’t miss dining on one of the waterfront patios. There are also lots of little shops and cafes, naturally!

Beyond downtown Paris, there are many adventures to have on the Grand River. You can go kayaking, tubing, or canoeing on this expansive waterway. For those who love walking and cycling, there are lots of trails in Paris to explore, too. You’re not too far from Brantford if you’re looking to incorporate some city travel with small town travel.

Oh, and one more thing! If you are a knitter or crafter in any capacity, a stop at Mary Maxim is a must. It’s a huge warehouse with every kind of crafting material and project you can imagine. It’s worth the trip to Paris just for Mary Maxim!

Recommended Place to Stay: Arlington Hotel in Paris

Best Small Towns in Ontario: Perth

Perth is one of the prettiest towns in Ontario, hands down. While I won’t pick favourites, it’s hard to find a more beautiful Ontario town than Perth. After all, there are more than 100 designated heritage buildings in one place! Scenic views? Check. Expansive greenspaces and parks? Check. Waterfront dining, nature trails and wetlands, unique shops…Perth really has got it all.

Perth is also home to several craft breweries and distilleries. Hop between Laketown Brewing Co, Perth Brewing, and Top Shelf Distillers for a boozy getaway. There are also lots of galleries in Perth, annual festivals and events (like the Perth Night Market) and there’s a farmers market every Saturday.

Still looking for more small towns to visit in Ontario? Picton needs to be on your list. Nestled in the darling Prince Edward County in southeastern Ontario, Picton is best known for its historic buildings, unique town hill, and Main Street shopping district. It lies along the Bay of Quinte where you’ll find lots of interesting destinations like Brighton , Trenton and Belleville .

Some of the best attractions in Picton are the Macaulay Heritage Park, Regent Theatre, and the House of Falconer. Go for a stroll at several local parks, including Hill Park with its scenic views of Picton Harbour. You can even spend the night in the Old Cobourg Jail. The King George Inn has repurposed those old jail cells and some of them still have that authentic jail feel.

Recommended Place to Stay (aside from King George Inn):   Stone Carriage House  in Picton

Port Credit (Mississauga)

If you are searching for small towns near Mississauga, it doesn’t get much closer than this. Port Credit was once its own village, but it’s now a neighbourhood within Mississauga. As Port Credit has such a small town feel, I have no problem including it in this guide to the best small towns of Ontario.

For many years, Justin and I lived in Port Credit, so we are the experts on this area of Mississauga. Here are all of the best things to do in Port Credit . In brief, you must explore all of the parks and trails, stop by the pretty rhododendron garden (it’s free!), shop and dine in Port Credit, and perhaps even attend one of the local summer festivals (Mississauga Waterfront Festival, Paint the Town Red, and Port Credit Busker Fest are a few of them).

While it is easy to fill your day with activities and attractions in Port Credit, you can combine it with a visit to Mississauga. Here are more things to do in Mississauga that you may enjoy, beyond this pretty small town setting.

Recommended Place to Stay: Waterside Inn in Port Credit

Best Small Towns in Ontario: Port Hope

Port Hope is one of the best small towns in Ontario to visit, and it’s even been called “Ontario’s favourite small town”. It streets are lined with preserved 19th century architecture, and there are so many boutique gift shops, bakeries and cafes.

If you can time it out properly, visit Port Hope during the fish migration season . Watch thousands of fish swim against the current, miraculously flinging themselves uphill over the rocks. Port Hope is also home to the IT Walking Tour (the Stephen King IT movies were filmed here), the Waterfront Trail, and two beautiful beaches.

Recommended Place to Stay: Plantation House BnB in Port Hope

Beautiful Towns in Ontario: Port Stanley

Looking for cute Ontario towns? There are so many amazing things to do in Port Stanley , as well as the nearby village of Sparta. Located on the shores of Lake Erie in Elgin County, Port Stanley is one of the best small towns in Ontario for its quaint downtown, beautiful beach, and interesting rail history.

I suggest spending a day at one of its two blue flag beaches (the main Port Stanley Beach or Little Beach), renting a bike for the day, taking a train ride, or browsing the shops. There are lots of fantastic restaurants in Port Stanley with lots of great vegan eats , too. In the nearby village of Sparta, you can go for a stroll through lavender fields, go for some wine tastings, and go hiking at Yarmouth Natural Heritage Area.

Recommended Place to Stay:   Kettle Creek Inn  in Port Stanley

Just outside of Kitchener-Waterloo, St. Jacobs is one of the prettiest towns in Ontario. There’s a thriving arts scene with colourful murals all over town, as well as handmade pottery by Conestoga River Pottery. This pottery shop is located inside old grain silos. It’s really cool! Also, stop by the EcoCafe next door for some of the best coffee.

St. Jacobs is most known for the St. Jacobs Farmers Market where you’ll find fresh produce grown by the local Mennonite farmers, as well as baked goods and prepared meals. There are also nearby factory outlet shops, antique shops, and even more shopping on the main street downtown. If you’re planning to visit Waterloo, be sure to make the short drive to neighbouring St. Jacobs.

Recommended Place to Stay: Delta Hotels by Marriott in Waterloo

Best Small Towns in Ontario: St. Marys

I stumbled upon the town of St. Marys on a trip to Perth County , and I’m so glad that I did. The town’s slogan is “The Town Worth Living In”, so you know that it must be nice if everyone wants to move here! Downtown St. Mary’s has an abundance of old limestone buildings, as well as rows of shops, restaurants and cafes. Snapping Turtle Coffee Roasters is a great pit stop for a caffeinated beverage.

Walk across the bridge to see Little Falls and the Thames River. St. Marys is also home to the Canadian Baseball Hall of Fame for sports fans, which preserves Canada’s baseball history. I suggest stopping in St. Mary’s for an hour or two when you travel to Stratford.

Recommended Place to Stay: Perth County Inn in Stratford

Prettiest Towns in Ontario: Stratford

Stratford is one of my very favorite road trip destinations in Ontario . I manage to find myself in Stratford at least once a year. There’s so much to see and do in Stratford that you can visit multiple times and never get bored. Don’t miss seeing the Shakespeare Gardens or taking a paddleboat out on the Avon River.

Stratford is the best destination for foodies as it’s home to quite the restaurant scene for such a small place. I loved finding all of the vegan food in Stratford as there’s something for every taste and preference. You can even plan a trip to Stratford in the winter . I suggest visiting around Christmastime as the shops are all decorated and there are winter lights festivals, too.

Of course, Stratford is home to the famous Stratford Festival, although there are many other festivals happening throughout the year. There’s the Stratford Summer Music Festival, Springworks, and an assortment of other annual festivities.

Cute Towns in Ontario: Thornbury

Thornbury, Ontario is a sleepy little town on the coast of Georgian Bay. While you might have heard of popular cities and towns like Collingwood, Wasaga Beach, and the Blue Mountains, Thornbury remains a little under the radar.

There’s a bustling downtown that has “main street” vibes. You’re steps away from great walking and biking trails with unique features. Thornbury is also a great base for all kinds of adventures in the region.

You can spend your day alternating between outdoorsy activities, enjoying a delicious meal, and getting cozy at a local cafe. Don’t miss stopping at Good Grief Coffee Roasters, Thornbury Craft Co Cider & Brew House, or the Thornbury Bakery Cafe.

Recommended Place to Stay: Royal Harbour Resort in Thornbury

Tobermory is a small town at the northern point of the Bruce Peninsula. Drive up Highway 6 until you essentially can’t drive any farther without hopping on a ferry. It’s about 300km northwest of Toronto. Tobermory is most famous for the Bruce Peninsula National Park and the Grotto. Admire rugged caves and cliffs surrounded by some of the most turquoise waters I’ve ever seen.

Tobermory is known as the “fresh water scuba diving capital of the world” for its intriguing shipwrecks in Fathom Five National Marine Park, Canada’s first national marine conservation area. Take a boat cruise over to Flowerpot Island for a couple of hours to see the unique rock formations.

Back in Tobermory, spend some time exploring Little Tub Harbour. Tobermory Brewing Company serves up fresh craft brews, and there are all kinds of little cafes and shops to browse. The harbour itself is very beautiful and also home to the northern terminus of the Bruce Trail .

Recommended Place to Stay: Cedar Vista Motel in Tobermory

Unionville (Markham)

Unionville is a former village and now part of Markham, Ontario, though I still count it as one of the best small towns in Ontario. Although it’s more like a neighbourhood now, it still retains that quaint village charm.

Founded in 1794, many of the original buildings from the 1800s are still in use today. The main draw of Unionville is its beautiful and historic main street. Davidson’s Garage and the Village Post Office are now home to amazing restaurants, and the former Unionville General Store and Queen’s Hotel are unique retail shops.

Unionville also hosts many events each year, so try to plan your visit during a festival. Some fun events each year include the Bandstand Music Nights, the Unionville Market, and the Unionville Festival. There are also pretty parks and museums to check out. Parking is always free in Unionville, too, so there’s no excuse not to check out one of the prettiest towns in Ontario.

Recommended Place to Stay: Toronto Markham Marriott in Markham

More Things to Do in Ontario, Canada

Looking for more travel guides for Ontario? We’ve got you covered! You can also find all of our Canada travel blog posts in one place, along with a handy map.

• 30 Best Small Towns in Ontario
• 30 Best Road Trips in Ontario
• Best Beaches in Ontario
• Dark Sky Preserves in Ontario
• Places to Ski in Ontario
• Best Christmas Markets in Ontario
• Parkbus Review: Amazing Hikes in Ontario

Lauren is the full-time travel blogger and content creator behind Justin Plus Lauren. She started Justin Plus Lauren in 2013 and has travelled to 50+ countries around the world. Lauren is an expert on vegan travel as one of the very first vegan travel bloggers. She also focuses on outdoor adventure travel, eco and sustainable travel, and creating amazing travel itineraries for cities and small towns.

Tiny Footsteps Travel

36 Most Charming Small Towns in Ontario (2024)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

35 Best Ontario Small Towns to Visit

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

1. Arnprior

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

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

Things to do in Arnprior, Ontario:

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

Where to stay in Arnprior:

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

2. Bancroft

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

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

Things to do in Bancroft, Ontario

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

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

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

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

Things to Do in Bath, Ontario

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

Places to stay near Bath, Ontario

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

5. Burks Falls

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

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

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

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

6. Bracebridge

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

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

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

Things to do in Bracebridge, Ontario

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

Places to Stay near Bracebridge, Ontario

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

7. Cochrane

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

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

Things to do in Cochrane, Ontario:

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

Places to stay near Cochrane:

• Travelodge by Wyndham Cochrane is less than 5 minute drive to the Polar Bear Habitat

8. Creemore

Creemore is home of the smallest jail in North America , and the famous Creemore Brewery, and makes a worthwhile stop on a road trip if you’re driving from Toronto to the Collingwood or Wasaga Beach area.

Creemore, with its quant downtown feels like a smaller version of Niagara on the Lake, with its high end shopping and a few cozy places to eat.

I grew up visiting Creemore, as my grandparents had a farm just outside of town. It has morphed into a touristy little spot, where I often like to meet friends for lunch and take a stroll on the main street.

Things to do in Creemore, Ontario

• Do a tasting tour at the Creemore Brewery
• Check out the smallest jail in North America !
• Visit the nearby lavender Farm, Purple Hill Lavender Farm (summer only)

Places to stay in Creemore

• I recommend staying at Gables Bed and Breakfast , just 10 minutes away in Stayner. It puts you close to Creemore, Collingwood and the Blue Mountains, as well as Wasaga Beach

Dorest is a small town very popular in the summer and fall, for people wanting to enjoy cottage country in Ontario.

The first time I visited Dorset, it immediately reminded me of a small Swiss village in the Alps – it kind of has that feel. I recommend making a stop here to enjoy the beautiful Muskoka scenery.

Things to do in Dorset, Ontario

• Get incredible, 360 views of the surrounding terrain from the Dorset Lookout Tower
• Take a cruise on the SS Bigwin that leaves from the Dorset dock
• Explore Dorset’s pioneering past at the Dorset Heritage Museum
• Go hiking in Algonquin Provincial Park (30 minutes away)

Book your overnight  accommodation in Dorset  here

Dwight is a small Muskoka town located right on the shore of the Lake of Bays. Dwight is extremely popular as a place to stay near Algonquin Provincial Park, as its only 20 minutes from the park entrance.

Aside from Algonquin, there are a number of other outdoorsy things to do in the area. And you absolutely must stop at Henrietta’s Bakery, and be there early enough if you want to try their signature pastry, the “Muskoka Cloud.”

We drive through Dwight every time we visit Algonquin, and I think the area is very under rated. It’s well worth a stop on an Ontario road trip from Toronto to Algonquin.

Things to Do in Dwight, Ontario

• Marvel at the Oxtongue River Rapids
• Shop at the Dwight Trading Post for unique Muskoka souvenirs
• Get a mouthwatering poutine at Din’s Fresh Cut Fries
• Stop in Henrietta’s Bakery for a sweet treat
• Take a drive to Dorset (15 minutes away) to climb the Lookout Tower, or take a Bigwin Cruise
• Go hiking in Algonquin Provincial Park (15 minutes away) and plan in advance if you want to see the fall colours

Elora is a small town famous for the Elora Gorge which is a tourist hotspot in the summertime, and for the ice climbing wall in the winter.

Elora is one of the best small towns to visit near Toronto, being only 90 minutes from downtown.

Things to do in Elora, Ontario

• Go swimming at the breathtaking Elora Quarry i n the summer
• Shop for gifts and souvenirs at the Mermaid gift shop
• Enjoy the variety of culinary options
• Climb at 60-foot ice-climbing wall (winter only, weather permitting)
• Explore the town of Fergus while you’re there (10 minutes away)

Fergus is one of the most picturesque small towns near Toronto. Its riverfront limestone buildings , culinary scene, scenic trails, and small town atmosphere make it really nice either to stop through, or for an Ontario weekend getaway.

Fergus is in Wellington Country, only 10 minutes away from Elora, so the two can be visited in conjunction with each other.

I used to pass through Fergus often on my way to my school in Waterloo, and its such a nice town with a charming atmosphere. There’s also a lot worth doing in the area.

• Check out all the the 1800s buildings, the post office, the museum, theatre and other
• See the waterfall in Confederation Park
• Visit the Wellington County Museum and Archives, which was once a “poorhouse” (government assisted housing in the 19th century.) Its the oldest of its kind in Canada
• Walk through Templin Gardens in the heart of town, and admire the flowerbeds and limestone
• Take part in the largest Scottish Festival in Canada . The Fergus Scottish Festival & Highland Games have been running for over 70 years.

Check accommodation options to spend a weekend in Fergus and Elora

13. Goderich

Goderich is a small town on Lake Superior, about 2.5 hours west of Toronto. Queen Elizabeth II called Goderich “the prettiest town in Canada,” and I believe she was definitely on to something.

I was lucky to be invited to a friend’s cottage in Goderich, and couldn’t believe my eyes when I saw the water – it was so turquoise, that it reminded me of the Caribbean.

Things to do in Goderich, Ontario

• Have a beach day. The Goderich Main Beach is a good place to enjoy the views
• Explore the old jail, the Huron Historic Gaol
• Hike on the Tiger Dunlop Nature Trail
• Get views from the Menesetung Bridge, and the Goderich Lighthouse
• Take a drive to explore other cute small towns Lake Huron that are nearby: Port Elgin, Kincardine and Bayfield

14. Grand Bend

Grand Bend is located right on Lake Huron and is known as one of the best beach towns in Canada .

With a small population of just over 3,000 people, Grand Bend has a small town atmosphere, as well as lots of beach

Things to do in Grand Bend, Ontario

• Swim and tan at Grand Band Beach
• Do a wine tour at Dark Horse Estate Winery
• Visit the Oil Museum of Canada , known as Lambton Heritage Museum
• Shop at the Pinery Antique Market on Sundays from May through to October, and the Grand Bend Farmer’s Market
• Take a drive along the Lake Huron coastline to explore other small towns: Goderich, Kincardine, and Bayfield

Check overnight accommodation options in Grand Bend here

15. Hockley Valley

Hockley Valley is a small community nestled in the Niagara Escarpment Biosphere Reserve, just over an hour from Toronto .

Hockley Valley is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts who enjoy hiking, skiing, or golfing in the summertime. It also has a popular spa which makes it great for a relaxing weekend getaway

I’m lucky to live close to Hockley Valley, so I’ve driven through the area many times. I enjoy hiking at Island Lake, and the General Store downtown is a great place to pop into.

Things to do in Hockey Valley, Ontario:

• Go skiing (winter) or golfing (summer) at the Hockley Valley Resort
• Enjoy the spa at the Hockley Valley Resort
• Visit the Rosebud Motel which was used on the popular TV show Schitt’s Creek
• Go hiking at Island Lake Conservation Area in town, or Mono Cliffs Provincial Park (reservation required – just 10 minutes away)

16. Huntsville

Huntsville is a picturesque Muskoka town with the Muskoka River running through it. Its a great place to stay if you’re visiting Algonquin Park.

Things to do in Hunstivlle, Ontario

• Go hiking at Algonquin Provincial Park , or at Arrowhead
• Trek to the top of the Lion’s Lookout for incredible 360 views
• Go treetop trekking just outside town
• Grab a Beaver Tail, or bring a picnic and sit down and eat along the river
• Go shopping on the main street, where you can find artisan Canadian souvenirs and gifts, and specialty items

17. Kincardine

Kincardine, like Grand Bend and Goderich, is another town on the Lake Huron shoreline in southwest Ontario.

Kincardine has it all in terms of an Ontario weekend getaway. There’s a decent food scene, a boardwalk, art galleries, museums, bookshops, surf shops, beaches and even chartered boat cruises to explore Lake Huron.

What I like best Kincardine is that its downtown is not a highway (like with Goderich), so it has a quainter, quieter, slow-paced atmosphere.

Things to do in Kincardine, Ontario

• Check out the Kincardine Lighthouse & Museum
• Get out onto the water with Kincardine Boat Cruises
• Walk along the boardwalk, and have a beach day at Station Beach
• See the Walker House Museum, the oldest standing wooden building in the area
• Take a stroll on the Penetangore River walking trails

Book your stay at the Inn at the Harbour lakeside hotel in Kincardine here

18. Lincoln

Lincoln is a charming hamlet in the Niagara region, and highly worth a stop if you’re driving from Toronto to Niagara Falls.

The Niagara area is renowned for its wineries, and Lincoln is no different. Part of what sets Lincoln apart is being known as one of the largest fruit-producing areas .

Things to Do in Lincoln, Ontario:

• Visit Ball’s Falls Conservation area to see the heritage buildings, and the waterfall
• Do a wine tour in town: Atlantis Niagara Winery is right in town
• Drive out to Niagara on the Lake (30 minutes) for some boutique shopping

Where to Stay in Lincoln

• The Inn on the Twenty nearby is perfect for a relaxing getaway

19. Little Current

Little Current is the largest town on Manitoulin Island, which is the largest freshwater island in the world.

Aside from scenic beauty, Manitoulin Island is known for its arts scene, and its indigenous cultural festivals and events.

Things to Do in Little Current, Ontario

• Visit Bridal Veil Falls (about 30 mins by car from Little Current)
• Go hiking on the famous Cup and Saucer Trail (20 minute drive)
• Learn about indigenous culture by attending a Pow Wow

Places to Stay in Little Current:

• Manitoulin Motel – air conditioning, free parking, flat screen TV, and tea/coffee maker

Pro Tip: Manitoulin Island is very popular for camping, and there are many camp resorts near the shoreline of Lake Superior. Read my post on Campsites on Manitoulin Island .

20. Lion’s Head

Lion’s Head is a popular stop on a road trip from Toronto to Tobermory, and truly one of the cutest small towns in Ontario. It’s a great place to do stargazing, and admire unique rock formations and views of Lake Huron.

Things to do in Lion’s Head, Ontario

• Check out the Lion’s Head Harbour lighthouse
• Swimming and sunbathing at Lion’s Head beach
• Participate in the Bayside Astronomy program , which runs at the marina in Lions Head at sunset
• Get incredible views from the Lion’s Head lookout trail (pictured above)
• Check out Greig’s limestone caves

21. Midland

In just over a 40 minute drive north of Barrie , you’ll find the town of Midland, which is nestled right on the shore of Georgian Bay.

It offers a colourful art scene with dozens of murals in the downtown core, several beaches, boat cruises, heritage discovery and outdoor beauty.

• Take a boat tour of Georgian Bay with Georgian Spirit Cruises
• Admire over 30 different murals in downtown Midland
• Take a walk in Little Lake Park trail along the Georgian Bay shoreline
• Step into the history at the Saint Marie Among the Hurons.
• See the 1800s replica warship , schooner & cargo vessel  at Discovery Bay
• Visit the Penetanguishene Centennial Museum.

Where to stay in Midland

• I recommend the Captain’s House Heritage B&B for a couples getaway, or the Hampton Inn for a family vacation in Midland

A tiny town just over an hour from Toronto, Mono is one of the most scenic towns to visit in Ontario.

Rather a town centre, Mono is composed of several small hamlets, farmland, and nature reserves. Mono is very popular for residents and tourists in Toronto who want to escape the city atmosphere, and get out into nature.

My husband and I are big fans of Mono and we come here often. We eat at the Mono Cliffs Inn for special occasions, and the Mono Cliffs Provincial Park is my husband’s favourite hiking spot. (It has gotten much busier in recent years and now requires a reservation.)

Things to do in Mono, Ontario

• Eat at the Mono Cliff’s Inn
• Go hiking at the Mono Cliff’s Provincial Park (reservation required)
• Do a tour of Ketchum House . (The owners are very nice people, and the view from the property of the surrounding land are stunning)

Places to stay near Mono, Ontario

• For an eco-friendly/sustainable living adventure : Ketchum House (the owners are very nice people)
• For a rustic experience : Cabin on the 9 (my husband and I celebrated Valentines Day here once, and it was wonderful)

23. Moonbeam

Moonbeam is a Northern Ontario town that is known for a large flying saucer at the side of the road. Early settlers to Moonbeam claimed to have seen UFOs or moonbeams in the sky that were never explained, which is how the town got its name

Moonbeam was also mentioned in the song “Fly” by the Tragically Hip. Moonbeam has just over 1,000 people and 70% of them are French-speaking.

With such a small population, there isn’t a ton to do in Moonbeam. However, it makes a worthwhile stop if you’re doing a Northern Ontario road trip, because its directly in between other Northern Ontario small towns Hearst and Cochrane.

Things to do in Moonbeam, Ontario

• Get photos in front of the Flying Saucer
• René Brunelle Provincial Park
• Marvel at Rémi Lake
• Take part in the Summer Art Fair during the 2nd weekend of July

Where to stay in Moonbeam

• Rent a cottage from Moonbeam Lakeside Resort which has incredible views of Rémi Lake

24. Niagara on the Lake

Niagara on the Lake is one of the touristy small towns in Ontario, and for a good reason. The area is rich with wineries, great places to eat, festivals and scenic drives. It’s very popular as a couple’s getaway, and there are a ton of bed and breakfasts.

Niagara on the Lake is one of my favourite places for a ‘girl’s weekend’ or a getaway with my husband. The wineries, hiking, boutique shopping, great food all make it very much worth a visit.

• Do a wine tour. My favourite wineries in the area are Peller Estates and Two Sisters, but there are many others
• Do the Chocolate Factory Experience at CFX, just 15 minutes away
• Visit Neob Niagara, the lavendar farm
• Eat at one of the many high end restaurants. I recommend The Old Winery Restaurant or Niagara’s Finest Thai. (However, be sure to make reservations well in advance, especially for a weekend.)
• Stroll down the main street for window shopping and finding artisan Canadian souvenirs . Pop into the Christmas store, and grab a sweet treat from Rocky Mountain
• Take part in the Ice Wine Festival, held in January. While you’re there, drive out to see Niagara Falls in winter (20 minutes away)

Book your overnight accommodation in Niagara on the Lake here

25. Owen Sound

Owen Sound known as “the scenic city”, Owen Sound is known for its art scene, and its proximity to several waterfalls.

With a population just over 20,000, Owen Sound is on the cusp of what I’d consider a small town. It is still relatively small, with a small town feel.

My husband and I went on a mini anniversary trip in Owen Sound, and it didn’t disappoint. We enjoyed the local cuisine, waterfalls, and the art galleries. I’d recommend a trip to Owen Sound for anyone looking for a nice place to visit in Ontario

• Visit Inglis Waterfall (pictured above) and Jones Waterfall
• Visit the art galleries, especially the Tom Thompson Art Gallery (he was a member of the Group of Seven, a famous group of Canadian artists.)

Mais oui, there is a Paris in Ontario too. While maybe not nearly as old as the one overseas, Paris Ontario is a quaint town with water activities, trails, and historic buildings.

Things to do in Paris, Ontario

• Have a hearty meal at the Paris Beer Company
• Grab an incecream cone at Paris Twisted Treats
• Rent a raft from the Grand River Rafting Company (20 minutes away)

27. Pembroke

Pembroke is an artsy town, known for having more murals than any other town or city in Ontario.

You may have to go a little out of your way to find it though – Pembroke is just east of Algonquin Provincial Park, a 4.5 hour drive from Toronto. It’s right on the Ottawa River, and you can see the province of Quebec on the other side.

Things to do in Pembroke, Ontario

• Enjoy views of the Ottawa river from the waterfront park and marina
• Learn about the history of electricity at the Murray L. Moore Hydro Museum
• Museum the history of Ottawa Valley
• Champlain Trail Pioneer Village.
• Visit the drive-i n in the summertime

Perth, a small town 1 hour from Ottawa, is has the best craft breweries  in eastern Ontario, a beautiful park with a river running through it and lots of outdoor activities.

Things to do in Perth, Ontario

• Visit the craft breweries: The Perth Brewery and the Bridge Master’s Brewing Company.)
• Go see the Mammoth Cheese monument which was made from milk of 10,000 cows
• Visit the P erth Chocolate Works for some incredible artisan chocolate
• Stop into BlackFly Grub Hub for fresh, homemade donuts

Check availability at the Perth at the Perth Parkside Inn & Spa for an overnight stay

29. St. Mary’s

St. Mary’s is a heritage town in southwestern Ontario, in between London and Stratford. It was settled in the 19th century and is known as “the stone town,” because of all of its l imestone buildings.

St. Mary’s is particularly a good destination for baseball lovers, and outdoor lovers.

Things to do in St. Mary’s, Ontario

• Check out the Canadian Baseball Hall of Fame
• Visit the St. Mary’s Opera house, built in 1880
• Swim in the St. Mary’s Quarry
• Walk the Grand Trunk Trail  (3.5 km or 2.1 miles) and get views of the river from the Sarnia Bridge
• Take a guided art tour at the Art of Ideas Gallery 
• Try local craft beer at the Broken Rail Brewing
• Take part in the Stratford festival (20 minutes away)

Check accommodation options in St. Mary’s here

30. St. Jacobs

St. Jacob’s, located just outside Waterloo, is a cute small town known for its Mennonite heritage, historic buildings, steam train, food scene, boutique shops and an outlet mall.

If you love to shop, then St. Jacob’s is the perfect small town to visit in Ontario. Whether you’re looking for antiques, handcraft items, or big brands, there are so many great things to buy here. Don’t forget your wallet!

I used to work at the St. Jacob’s Outlet Mall as a university student, and its as much a tourist attraction as it is a great place for locals to score deals on big brands.

Things to do in St. Jacob’s, Ontario

• Take an old fashioned train ride on the Waterloo Central Railway
• Find gifts at Angel Treasures and Artefacts Salvage & Design
• Shop at the St. Jacob’s Farmer’s Market
• Learn about St. Jacob’s Mennonite culture at The Mennonite Story
• Buy premium teas at Tea, Earth & Sky

31. Schomberg

Schomberg is one of the best small towns to visit near Toronto, being only an hour away. The main street is one of the cutest in the GTA (Greater Toronto Area). There are boutique stores, great food, thrift shops.

I grew up near Schomberg, and still have family that lives here, so I visit pretty frequently. There are some great restaurants on the main strip, and very cute boutique stores.

Things to do in Schomberg

• Eat at the Schomberg Pub (great patio in the summertime)
• Grab coffee or brunch at the hole in the wall Grackle Cafe.

32. Tobermory

Tobermory is known as the scuba diving and shipwreck capital of Ontario. It’s a quaint small town in Ontario, at the tip of the Bruce Peninsula on Georgian Bay.

Tobermory has a small harbour, some incredible scenic outdoor activities, and is known for its crystal clear turquoise water which makes it so popular for snorkeling and diving.

As a scuba diver, I head to Tobermory almost every summer – with kids, and on my own. It’s one of my favourite small towns to visit in Ontario.

Things to Do in Tobermory:

• Do snorkeling or diving with Diver’s Den in the crystal clear water to see shipwrecks
• Take a glass bottom boat tour to Flowerpot Island
• Hike to the Grotto and Indian Head Cove
• A number of restaurants in the harbour
• Visit Singing Sands beach

Hoping to visit Tobermory with kids? Read my post on family-friendly places to stay in Tobermory.

Book your day tour to Tobermory and Flowerpot Island from Toronto here

33. Tottenham

Tottenham is a small town close to Toronto. The South simcoe railway is one of the best things to do in the area , among others.

I grew up in Tottenham, and visit here often. I enjoy getting getting outside at the conservation area, having dinner at The Taste of Freedom, and bringing my children on the steam train. (I’ve been riding it since I was a kid.)

Things to do in Tottenham:

• Grab dinner at the Taste of Freedom , a high-end restaurant set in an old Victorian home.
• Hiking, swimming or fishing at the Tottenham Conservation Area
• Attend the Annual Bluegrass Festival, held in June every year
• Take part in seasonal events during the fall and the holiday season
• Head to Alliston (20 minutes away)

Pro Tip: If you stay nearby overnight, I recommend having breakfast at the Cedar Kitchen on main street.

34. Uxbridge

Uxbrige is a gem of a community known for its old fashioned train, and for being the “trail capital of Canada.”

Uxbridge is particularly a nice place to visit for those who enjoy small towns in addition to farms. The area is bursting with family-owned farms that welcome visits to buy fresh, locally sourced and artisan food products.

Things to do in Uxbridge, Ontario

• Visit Goodwood, which is a filming location on the popular TV show  Schitt’s Creek
• Discover halotherapy at the  Holistic Salt Therapy & Cave
• Visit the Thomas Foster Memorial, known as the  “Jewel on the Hill”
• Have a picnic in  Uxbridge’s Elgin Park  (Canada’s first prime minister John A. MacDonald picniced here)
• Go hiking in Glen Major Forest
• Visit a farm -there are a number of them in the area where you can pick your own fresh produce, or meet animals (if you’re in the area with kids.)

The Wawa Goose Monument is a 28-feet tall metal statue and is most photographed monument in North America.

You also need to stop at the Magpie Waterfalls just outside town. Besides the goose statue and the falls, there isn’t a lot to do in Wawa, but its a very worthwhile stop on a road trip from Toronto to Thunder Bay.

Things to Do in Wawa:

• Magpie Waterfalls just 10 minute drive outside town.
• Take photos of the Wawa Goose Monument
• Grab food at the Viking Restaurant, or the Wawa Goose Bar & Grill
• Michipicoten Post Provincial Park

Where to Stay in Wawa:

• Mystic Isle Motel

36. Wiarton

Right on the shore of Lake Huron, Wiarton is home of the “Wiarton Willy.” worthwhile stop on a road trip from Toronto to Tobermory.

Just 25 minutes south of Lion’s Head and an hour from Tobermory, Wiarton has a lot of hidden gems that are well worth a stop.

Things to do in Wiarton, Ontario

• See caves and rock formations at Spirit Rock and the Bruce Caves Conservation Area
• Stroll down the marina, and take photos with the Wiarton Willy statue
• Grab fresh, seasonal comfort food at the Green Door Café
• Have a beach day at Oliphant Beach (25 minutes way)
• Take a drive to the Owen Sound area (35 minutes) to see waterfalls and for more restaurant options

Where to stay in Wiarton

Waterview on the Bay has scenic views, and an outdoor swimming pool

Best Small Towns in Ontario Near Toronto

Here’s a stunning fact: half of Ontario’s population lives in the Greater Toronto Area. Both residents and tourists in the area enjoy escaping the hecticness and business of the city to explore the small town lifestyle and cute villages in Ontario.

Here are the best small towns near Toronto

• Schomberg (1 hour)
• Port Perry (1 hour)
• Uxbridge (1 hour)
• Paris (1 hour)
• Mono and Hockley Valley (1 hour, 10 minutes)
• Elora and Fergus (90 minutes)
• Lincoln (1 hour, 20 minutes)
• Niagara on the Lake (1 hour, 45 minutes)

How to Get Around Ontario

Unfortunately, Ontario doesn’t have the best rail or public transit system. The best way to get around (especially if youre planning to visit small towns) is by car. If you don’t own one in Ontario, then you can rent one here.

There are a few exceptions of course. There are private tours to Tobermory from Toronto, and to Algonquin, where there are a few small tourist towns, like Huntsville, Dorset and Dwight.

Book your rental car for Ontario here

Ontario Small Towns: FAQs

Here are the most commonly asked questions about small towns in Ontario, and choosing which ones to visit or live in

What is the prettiest small town in Ontario?

There are too many pretty small towns in Ontario to choose just one. But in my opinion, some o the most quaint and pretty small towns in Ontario are Kincardine, St. Mary’s, Creemore, Niagara on the Lake, Elora,

What small towns are up north in Ontario?

There are many small towns in Northern Ontario that are worth visiting. Some of them are Moonbeam, Cochrane, Hearst, Kapuskasking, Wawa, and countless more. There are lots of towns, waterfalls and scenic sights to stop at on a Northern Ontario road trip.

Where is the best small town to live in Ontario?

If you want to be close to Toronto, then some of the best small towns to live in Ontario are Schomberg, Fergus, Erin, Elora, Port Perry, and several others. Keep in mind that most small towns within 2 hours of the Greater Toronto Area are still expensive; if you’re looking for affordable housing, then you might need to be willing to move further east or north.

Conclusion: Small towns in Ontario

While visiting the touristy cities like Toronto and Ottawa is exciting, there are a lot of hidden gems and off the beaten track attractions in Ontario small towns. Visiting them allows you to really tap into the local culture, and way of life of many Canadians.

Visiting landmarks and attractions in the small towns of Ontario is often rewarding, because of far fewer crowds than some of the city tourist attractions, and being able to connect with local culture and way of life. Many opportunities to get out into nature, explore indigenous and settlement heritage, try some mouthwatering food in hole in the wall restaurants,

35 Iconic Places to Visit in Ontario, Canada

Written By: The Planet D

Updated On: February 19, 2024

The Canadian Province of Ontario is huge! It’s the size of a small country and to see it all takes months. (even years!) Luckily, we’ve toured a lot of our home province and have rounded up the most iconic places to visit in Ontario.

This list will help you plan your visit and hopefully it will introduce you to a few places you’ve never heard of before!

It wasn’t easy choosing, we definitely left out many iconic places. So be sure to leave a comment with your choices if we didn’t include them.

Best Places to Visit In Ontario

Table of Contents

Facts About Ontario

Ontario houses four of the five Great Lakes: Lake Ontario, Lake Erie, Lake Huron, and Lake Superior. It is home to the Niagara Escarpment a UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve and Niagara Falls , one of the largest waterfalls in the world.

Ontario is larger than Ukraine, France, and Spain. Three of Europe’s largest countries! It is home to Canada’s capital city, Ottawa, and Canada’s largest and most exciting city – Toronto. When visiting Canada, a trip to Ontario is a must and these are all of the best places to visit in the province! Read more facts at – Fun Facts About Canada That Will Make Smarter

Unique Places in Ontario

There are so many places to visit in Ontario, it’s difficult to know where to begin. So we thought we’d start of this epic list with the more unique experiences and ideas. But don’t worry, as you go along, there are places in and close to Toronto and other urban centres. No matter where you are in Ontario , I am sure there is a place to visit near you!

1. The Grotto

One of the best places to visit is Tobermory, Grotto. We have always known about how special Tobermory was. Its shipwrecks have attracted us to its icy waters since 2000 when we started scuba diving. But we never really looked into its draw to photographers until it caught the eye of Instagrammers.

We used to have this beautiful coast on the Bruce Peninsula all to ourselves. Today, you need to make a reservation to see the turquoise waters shimmering in a cave. Read more: The Best Things to do in Tobermory, Ontario

This day trip from Toronto takes you with a guide and driver to Georgian Bay to see the lighthouse at Big Tub Harbor, a hike along Horse Lake and the Cliffs of Georgian Bay including hiking to Indian Head Cove, the Grotto, and Marr Lake.

2. Flowerpot Island

While you are in the neighbourhood, Flowerpot Island is another iconic place in Ontario. Located in the Fathom Five National Marine Park of Tobermory, a place we frequented while diving at the turn of the century (that sounds so weird to say, but it was 20 years ago!) The pillars and caves of Flowerpot Island attract hikers, daytrippers and boat tours to see the interesting formations. Read more: 25 Best Places to Camp in Ontario, Canada

3. Wiarton Willy

Located in the waterfront town of Wiarton, Wiarton Willy is Canada’s answer to Punxsutawney Phil. Each February crowds gather around this groundhog’s home as he predicts whether it will be an early or late spring depending if he sees his shadow or not. Willy has the rest of the year off, and visitors can pop by his dwelling to say hello! Read more at the Grey Bruce Superloop

4. White River

Blink and you’ll miss it, but White River is famous for Winnie the Pooh. Even though it is small, White River is one of the most iconic places to visit in Canada for a historical reference. Way back in 1914, a hunter shot a bear cub’s mother and brought the cub back to town to keep as a pet.

A soldier going through White River by train bought the bear cub for $20 and brought it to Europe with him. When his regiment was shipped off to France to fight, the soldier gave the bear to a zoo in England and that is where the bear lived out its life. Writer A.A. Milne frequented the zoo and his son Christopher Robin liked the bear giving it the nickname Pooh. “Thus Winnie the Pooh was born in White River.”

5. Diefenbunker

The Diefenbunker is definitely one of the quirkiest museum in Ontario. This underground museum was built during the Cold War for Canada’s top dogs to take cover in case of a nuclear attack.

Located strategically outside of Ottawa, it was meant to withstand a nuclear bomb. It’s like stepping back into a time capsule as you tour old computer rooms, creepy living quarters and even medical rooms.

Touring the Deifenbunker makes you realize that you wouldn’t want to be the one called upon to live in here after an attack. I’d take my chances outside.

• The Best Ottawa Museums
• Top Things to do in Ottawa

6. Cheltenham Badlands

Dave and I stumbled upon this weird phenomenon while cycling outside Toronto in Caledon years ago. Nobody was around and we never knew it existed before then.

Today, it’s popular for photographers. It is a piece of land that looks like the Badlands of Alberta or South Dakota . Terrible environmental practices were the result of exposing this red piece of shale creating a lunar-like landscape.

• Read more: 25 Day Trips from Toronto to Escape the City

7. The Big Nickel in Sudbury

Canada loves roadside attractions. There’s the Big Apple in Colborne as you drive east on the 401 towards Montreal or Ottawa, there’s the Big Paddle in BC, and the Canada Goose of Wawa.

But my favourite is the Big Nickel in Sudbury. Located at the Dynamic Earth Science Museum (which is a lot of fun) the Big Nickel was built in 1964 to pay homage to the mining industry of the area.

Popular Attractions in Ontario

There are so many amazing places in Ontario and a lot of times it is difficult to get out of the cities when you are a tourist. So we thought we’d focus on a few urban landmarks that are located in popular Ontario cities. First time visitors to Ontario shouldn’t miss these sites.

8. Niagara Falls

It may seem like the obvious choice, but for first-time visitors to Ontario, this is the ultimate place to visit in the province! Having been to Victoria, Iguazu, Gulfoss and other major waterfalls around the world Niagara Falls really does stack up against the best of them! What makes Niagara Falls so unique is the fact that a city is built around it. There are so many amazing Niagara attractions, you can spend a week taking advantage of all the adventures and scenery.

Browse all of the best Niagara Falls tours and attractions that you can do on your own day trip in Ontario.

9. Niagara on the Lake

While visiting Niagara Falls, be sure to head down the road and explore Ontario’s wine region of Niagara on the Lake . Its historic downtown is a lovely weekend getaway from Toronto.

See more of the top sights in Niagara on the Lake here. Some of the top Niagara on the Lake activities include wine tours, the whirlpool jetboat tour, The Whirlpool Adventure ropes course at Queenstown Heights, and helicopter tours. Browse tours here.

• The Best Things to do in Niagara Falls
• Romantic Places to Visit in Ontario
• Toronto to Niagara Falls by Bus

10. Ottawa Parliament Buildings

Canada’s Parliament Buildings are a top draw to visitors of Ottawa. Located on Parliament Hill, these striking Gothic buildings have dominated Ottawa’s waterfront since 1859. They are a national historic site in Canada and you can tour the buildings, walk around the grounds, and even sit in on a parliament meeting to spy on the Prime Minister!

Check out more things to do in Ottawa. Some of the top activities in Ottawa include a cruise on the Rideau Canal, The Canadian Museum of Nature, the Ottawa Hop on Hop Off Bus, and yacht tours on the Ottawa River. See more tours here.

• The Best Things to do in Ottawa
• Ottawa Winter Activities

10. The CN Tower

You can’t miss visiting the CN Tower when in Toronto. It is one of Canada’s top attractions! The CN Tower once held the distinction of the world’s tallest structure. Today it is the third highest tower after the Tokyo Skytree in Japan and the Canton Tower in China. Check out more Toronto tours here.

While it offers some of the best views of Toronto it also has one of the best adventures in Toronto! Get your adrenaline pumping with the Edgewalk. You’ll cling to the outside of the structure in the world’s highest external walk on a building. Even my dad did the Edgewalk in his 70s, so you can do it too!

• CN Tower EdgeWalk
• Where to Stay in Toronto – A Guide to the Best Neighborhoods

11. Stratford Festival

Stratford is a beautiful town two hours from Toronto located on the Avon River. It feels like a slice of old England with the Avon and Festival Theatres being the main draw in town showcasing the works of Shakespeare. While the theatre attracts crowds and actors from around the world, it is also a very picturesque town in Ontario to visit.

12. Casa Loma

Another interesting landmark to visit is Casa Loma in Toronto. Casa Loma is Ontario’s castle complete with hidden passageways, stables and a beautiful garden. Sir Henry Pallett began construction in 1911. But thanks to The Great Depression, World War I and financial difficulties he lost the castle in 1923.

It has been used as everything from a hotel to a nightclub and was even abandoned for a while. Today you can tour the castle, enjoy fine dining and high tea and there are several regular events happening. Get your Casa Loma entry ticket here .

• The Best Things to do in Toronto
• Where to Stay in Toronto

Ontario North – Places to Visit

Lake Superior is without a doubt one of the most beautiful places in Ontario. For most, it is also one of the more unexplored places in Ontario due to it being so far north. Getting there is a bit of a drive, but once you are up on the North Shore of this magnificent Great Lake you’ll have the adventure of a lifetime!

13. Terry Fox Memorial

Terry Fox is a national hero of Canada. In 1980, he started a journey running across Canada after losing a leg to cancer. Sadly his cancer came back during his run and he had to stop partway through in the town of Thunder Bay located on the Trans Canada highway.

He was 143 days and 5,373 kilometres (3,339 miles) into his run and a memorial was erected in his honour at the location he had to cut his journey short. His memory lives on and each year, there is a charity run in his name that takes place across the country raising money for cancer research. When you visit Thunder Bay, it wouldn’t be complete without stopping at this moving memorial. Enjoy the Best of the Lake Superior Circle Tour

14. Agawa Rocks Petroglyphs

The drive along the TransCanada Highway between Sault Ste Marie and Thunder Bay is certainly the most beautiful drive in Ontario. While you are on that road, there is a stop that many people miss along the route. The ancient Agawa Rock Petroglyphs were painted by the Ojibway People centuries ago. You have to walk out onto an outcrop while holding onto rope to see them and it is worth the adventure!

15. Slate Islands

Speaking of wildlife encounters, the Slate Islands are one of the top places to visit in Ontario for a unique wildlife experience. There is a herd of woodland caribou that inhabit the island . Located 13km in the middle of Lake Superior, the Slate Islands are their own little ecosystem of plants and animals. A weeklong camping trip is definitely a must! Read: Things to do on the Slate Islands

16. Sault Ste Marie

It’s time to visit a cool northern town, Sault Ste Marie. Known as “The Soo,” Sault Ste Marie is home to the Canadian BiPlane Heritage Museum and one of the best places in the world for fly fishing, according to Ernest Hemingway himself, the Saint Mary’s River.

We went fly fishing here and it was awesome. Fly fishers from around the world put on their waders and spend hours catching and releasing bass and steelhead.

The name alone makes Wawa worth visiting. But this little town on the north shore of Lake Superior packs a punch. First you must stop to say hello to the Wawa Goose. The Wawa Goose was built in the 1930s to attract visitors bypassing Wawa on the drive along the TransCanada Highway. This massive Goose is one of the most photographed landmarks in North America. (according to the Algoma County Tourism Board anyway. ) Read more: Lake Superior Circle Tour – Ultimate Two Week Itinerary

19. Pukaskwa National Park

It is one of Canada’s greatest hikes. If you are looking for a challenge in a remote region of Ontario, this is the place to go. The trip starts with an exciting boat ride on Lake Superior that takes you to the start of the trail. It is then a 5-7 day long hike back along the gorgeous Canadian Shield shoreline and through breathtaking boreal forests.

Georgian Bay and Bruce Peninsula

A great place to explore Ontario in the summer is to head up to Lake Huron. Some of the most beautiful and iconic places to visit in Ontario are located in the Bruce Peninsula National Park – A long peninsula that juts into Lake Huron dividing it from Georgian Bay. You could spend all summer up here and never see it all! Trust me, we’ve tried! Read: Things to do in Blue Mountain and Collingwood

19. Manitoulin Island

It’s the largest freshwater island in the world. Located on Lake Huron, this 2766 km2 (1167 square miles) has some of Ontario’s most iconic landmarks like Bridal Veil Falls, the Benjamin Islands and, the high lookout outcrop of the Cup and Saucer Trail.

Be sure to take part in one or all Great Spirit Circle Trail tours. Aboriginal Tourism offers the best First Nation’s experiences in Canada like the voice of the drum, smudging ceremonies, traditional dancing, cooking, and canoeing! Get to know the traditions and ways of the Anishinabe People who live on Manitoulin. Read all the things to do on Manitoulin Island

20. Thirty Thousand Islands

The World’s Largest Freshwater archipelago spans along the Eastern Shore of Lake Huron in Georgian Bay. Canada’s famous band of artists “The Group of Seven” made this part of Ontario a major focus of their works of art that can be viewed in the Art Gallery of Ontario in Toronto. You can take boat tours through this area, and there is some excellent shipwreck diving here as well. It’s one of Ontario’s premiere cottage country locations. See The Best of the Grey Bruce

21. Blue Mountain Resort

Ontario isn’t exactly known for its ski culture, but Blue Mountain Resort does host World Cup ski and snowboard events! Blue Mountain near Collingwoods is an excellent weekend getaway for skiing in the winter and hiking, mountain biking, and watersports in the summer. Read more: Top 15 Ontario Hiking Trails

The village is an amazing place to hang out with fine dining, fudge and ice cream shops and plenty of shopping. There are so many things to do around Blue Mountain Resort like the Scandinavian Spa, the Scenic Caves, cycling routes, and in the winter it is the best place in Ontario to ski and snowboard. Read more about Blue Mountain Here.

22. Scenic Caves

Collingwood’s Scenic Caves are beautiful and to see them you get to cross Ontario’s longest suspension bridge. Located on the Niagara Escarpment, this labyrinth of 17 caves and formations located 70 feet below the surface of this UNESCO World Heritage Bio Reserve.

Make a day of it and do the Scenic Caves Eco Adventure Tour where you will walk along Ontario’s Longest Suspension Bridge offering beautiful panoramic views of Georgian Bay before going into a maze of high ropes and walkways followed by two awesome ziplines!

Algonquin Highlands

If you look at a map of Ontario, you’ll see a mass of green space that encompasses the Algonquin Provincial Park and Haliburton Forest. This Algonquin Park Adventure Tour from Toronto takes you on a full day tour of hiking, canoeing, and swimming in Ontario’s oldest provincial park.

These are some of the more rugged places to visit in Ontario and if you love camping, wildlife and the outdoors, it’s the place to go! Read more: Things to do in Haliburton – A Four Seasons Ontario Escape

23. Wolf Centre

When Dave and I first discovered this, we couldn’t believe we had something so special right here in Ontario. Haliburton Forest is amazing enough to visit, but you really must go to see the pack of wild wolves that roam the land. You can watch them from behind a glass wall that keeps human contact to a minimum. Also Check out Parc Omega Wolf Cabins Experience

• Read: Haliburton Wolves
• Dogsledding in Haliburton

24. Algonquin Provincial Park

We’ve had a lot of wildlife encounters around the world, and taking a canoe and camping trip to Algonquin Park while looking for moose is right up there as one of the best! Booking a trip with a professional outfitter like Voyageur Quest or Algonquin Outfitters is a great way to find wildlife and have the most fun! Check out: In Search of the Algonquin Moose

Ontario Rivers

Ontario offers some epic water adventures. With more than 250,000 lakes, rivers and streams, Ontario is blessed with fresh and clean water that is ready and waiting to be explored. We can’t possibly cover them all. And there are several spots that are worthy of a mention, but then this post would go on and on and on. But these are the most epic water experiences for people visiting Canada and those wanting to explore their own backyard.

25. Ottawa River

The Ottawa River is one of the most legendary places to visit in Ontario. The rapids on this river are so high, it attracts professional whitewater kayakers and rafters from around the world. You can book this whitewater rafting tour that includes a BBQ lunch.

The mighty Ottawa River takes you through class III to V rapids on a trip you’ll never forget. Be sure to book a two to three-night getaway at one of the resorts on the river to truly appreciate all the Ottawa River has to offer. See more Ottawa River tours here.

• whitewater rafting
• Learning to Whitewater Kayak the Madawaska River

26. Missinaibi River

The Mssinaibi River is one of the most iconic canoe routes in Canada. This was once an important canoe route for First Nations and it was also an important route for fur traders. It is as rugged as it gets and canoeing or kayaking this river requires experience.

We trekked the Missinaibi in the winter and if we didn’t have our guides from Lure of the North , we definitely would have perished in the cold. I have no idea how the early settlers, First Nations, and fur traders survived up here, but it is glorious today!

27. Saint Lawrence River

There is a stretch of the Saint Lawrence River that everyone traveling Ontario should visit. From Kingston to Brockville, there are plenty of things to see and do. Snaking along the border of Canada and the United States, the Saint Lawrence River is one of North America’s most important waterways.

While touring the Saint Lawrence River, visit the picturesque town of Brockville. It is home to one of the most instagram worthy stops in Ontario at Canada’s oldest railway tunnel. We loved drift diving the shipwrecks that litter the floor of the Saint Lawrence. But if you want to stay above water, be sure to take a boat cruise through the 1000 islands.

Thousand Islands National Park is a beautiful stretch of the river with islands and communities spanning 50 km. Book this 1000 Islands tour where you’ll set sail for a half day cruise from Gananoque where you’ll get to explore Heart Island and Boldt Castle.

28. Rideau Canal

The Rideau Canal is impressive to visit winter or summer. The best places to see the Rideau Canal are in Ottawa or Kingston Ontario. But there are some small towns in Ontario like Smith Falls, Perth and Merrickville to view them as well.Built in 1832, the Locks were designed as a supply route in case of a war with the United States. Today it attracts boaters and tourists who marvel at the UNESCO World Heritage Site that is the oldest continuosly operated canal in North America.

We’ve taken this Rideau Canal Cruise while in Ottawa and it is a great relaxing way to see the historical attraction while listening to live commentary and taking in the sights of the city.

• See the Rideau Canal in Winter at: Winterlude in Ottawa
• Amazing Rideau Canal Cruise – A Unique Cruise Holiday with Le Boat
• Amazing Places to Visit on the Rideau Canal

29. Elora Quarry

The Elora Gorge is famous for the Elora Quarry that has been used as a location in many a Hollywood movie. Most recently in the movie “It.” Remember when the Loser’s Club jumped off the cliff? The 15 meter jump is popular with tourists. A 2km long section of the The Grand River runs through the Elora Gorge where limestone cliffs reach 22 meters into the air.

Beaches and Waterfalls

Ontario may be cold eight months of the year, but we really do love our beaches. And besides, waterfalls can be beautiful when frozen too! These are a few interesting back and water locations in Ontario that you should check out.

30. Wasaga Beach

If you head two hours north of Toronto, you’ll discover the longest freshwater beach in the world! Wasaga Beach is Ontario’s premier beach town with an astounding 14km of sandy beach to walk along the shores of Lake Huron.

31. Sauble Beach

If you love beaches, Sauble Beach is the second longest freshwater beach in the world at 11km long. What we love about Sauble Beach is that the water is shallow. The are sandbars out from shore keeping the water shallow and warm.

32. Scarborough Bluffs

Less than an hour from downtown Toronto are the stunning Scarborough Bluffs towering over Lake Ontario. Spanning 14 km and reaching 90 meters into the air, the Scarborough Bluffs are an outdoor lover’s dream. But be careful, every summer there are rescues along its trails as hikers fall over the steep cliffs.

33. Hamilton Waterfalls Falls

Who knew Ontario had so many beautiful waterfalls? Just outside of Toronto in the Hamilton area of the Niagara Escarpment, there are several scenic waterfalls that are awesome to visit.

You can spend a day or weekend checking them all out! There are 100 waterfalls to explore in the area. Webster Falls is probably our favourite, but there are so many waterfalls in the area because of the Niagara Escarpment. Read The Best Things to do in Hamilton, Ontario

• A few of the best Hamilton waterfalls:
• Albion Falls
• Balls Falls
• Devil’s Punchbowl
• Tourism Hamilton has a good list here.

34. Toronto Islands

Located a short ferry ride from Toronto are the tranquil Toronto Islands. It’s a little escape from the city where you can rent bicycles, go for a picnic or hang out on the beach. There’s even a nude beach if you dare!

This Toronto Islands and Harbour Cruise takes you on a tour to visit the Toronto Islands and enjoy the spectacular Toronto skyline from Lake Ontario.

I grew up on Lake Erie. My family boated the waters and I spent many a weekend waterskiing out to Pottahawk Island. To this day, my neices and nephews still go out to Pottahawk on Lake Erie for the annual “Pottahawk Pissup.” (how Canadian is that?) Here are a few hot spots for the average visitor to see on Lake Erie.

35. Port Dover

Located on Lake Erie, Port Dover is a popular day trip from Toronto. Grab a foot long hot dog at The Arbor and walk the streets to do some shopping. There’s a great sandy beach here too. Port Dover has gained fame over the years from the thousands of motorcycle enthusiasts that flock to the beach on Friday the 13th.

36. Long Point

Long Point Provincial Park is a designated world biosphere reserve thanks to it being one of the largest areas for birds migrating in North America. This narrow 40km long sand spit juts out so far into Lake Erie, that once you round the bend of Long Point, you are nearly half way to Erie Pennsylvania. Enjoy this Niagara Road Trip: One of the best places to drive in Ontario

And that ladies and gentlemen are the best places to visit in Ontario. According to Dave and Deb. We are exploring more of Ontario this summer and are taking advantage of having to stay put for a bit. When you are forced to check out your own backyard, you find some of the most exciting hidden gems.

• 19 Most Epic Things to do in Ontario
• 25 of the Best Places to Camp in Ontario, Canada
• 59 Things to do in Toronto – A Guide to the Top Attractions
• Things to do in Niagara Falls – What to do, Where to Eat & Where to Stay
• 33 Things to do in Ottawa – A Complete Guide to the City
• Top 11 Things to Do on Manitoulin Island

What hidden gems in Ontario have you found this summer?

Travel Planning Resources

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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About The Planet D

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

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7 thoughts on “35 Iconic Places to Visit in Ontario, Canada”

What a lovely read to find the best places to see in Ontario !!!

Ontario is a good place for travel. Canada is always the best place to travel and for sports activities. Subscribed your blog..

Canada is always one of the best place to travel and for a very beautiful picture taking for social media. Thanks for sharing this information, subscribed your blog.

Great article, you should have included Pelee Island. Furthest point south habitated in Canada! Thanks,

Hey! When I write about something, I always look-up to blogs like your for inspiration. I am writing about inner Canada travelling as well. And I really enjoyed your article, you have really done your homework. I tried going to the grotto this summer, but is was closed due to (that which will not be named). I wish you well, and keep up the great work.

-julzlaporte.com

Very interesting blog! Amazing destinations with very thoughtful descriptions along with it! The photos look beautiful too! Thanks for sharing these very informative and helpful guide on which places are a must to check-out and visit in Ontario, Canada!

Amazing blog. breathtaking travel destinations. I really enjoyed reading it. I love all the beautiful photographs Thanks for sharing 🙂

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Guide to 25 Best Small Towns in Ontario to Visit

Want to know which of the best small towns in Ontario you need to visit?

There’s nothing better than discovering new picturesque towns in Ontario. Thankfully, Ontario sure does have a lot of them!

Visit a small town in Ontario and you’ll find nothing but charm. Nothing quite beats that small town Ontario vibe where the pace is slower, the locals are friendlier, and the quiet streets are filled with quaint unique shops.

Ontario small towns don’t offer visitors any tourist attractions per se. The best ones are often in the most scenic areas in the province and each one offers something a bit unique and special. It’s the town itself that is the tourist attraction.

I’ve lived in some of the best small towns near Toronto, and I’ve been day-tripping to cute towns near Toronto my entire life! My blog is only focused on beautiful small towns in Ontario. So, I guess you can say small town Ontario is kind of my specialty. I’ve got a great list of the most beautiful towns in Ontario perfect for your next road trip!

Table of Contents

List of the best small towns in ontario.

There are A LOT of best Ontario small towns to visit. So how do you decide which ones to go to?

How far they are from where you live is key to a successful road trip.

With so many spread across the province, this list will be divided into the small Ontario towns to visit in the East and the West, using Highway 400 as our dividing line.

Here’s a quick list of the featured small quaint towns in Ontario, followed by more information for you to plan your trip.

Small Ontario Towns (East)

Best small towns ontario (west), small towns in ontario to visit in the west.

Alton is just one of those places to visit in Ontario if you love art. A hidden gem nestled in the Caledon area, you’ll find yourself captivated by its vibrant artist community hub.

What truly sets Alton apart is its unique ability to blend the tranquillity of a historic village with the pulsating energy of a thriving arts scene. The old mill lovingly repurposed into studios and galleries makes for an enjoyable way to spend a couple of hours.

Add in some local hiking or perhaps a self-guided walking tour to admire the pre-1900s homes dotted around Shaw’s Creek to round out your day here.

Driving distance from Toronto to Alton = 1 hour (78 km)

2. Bayfield

Bayfield is located on Ontario’s West Coast in Huron County, making it one of the most scenic towns in Ontario. This charming village is known for its incredible views of Lake Huron, as well as, its beaches, parks and historic downtown.

Find the heart of the village of Bayfield by wandering the historic Main Street lined with unique shops, restaurants and galleries. Peruse The Village Bookshop, a charming bookstore that features local authors. A must is a visit to The Pink Flamingo Bakery & Boutique for their delicious scones baked fresh every morning.

Visit Bayfield’s Pioneer Park for a breathtaking view of Lake Huron before you head to its main beach. 

Driving distance from Toronto to Bayfield = 2.5 hours (220 km)

3. Creemore

Creemore is just one of those quaint Ontario towns to visit any time of the year! Stroll down the charming main street lined with so many wonderful shops from the local bakery called The Bank offering some of the best cinnamon buns you’ll ever taste to the lifestyle shops with a dash of European flair.

Creemore also boasts the renowned Creemore Craft Brewery. Stop by for a sip of the pale ales they’re so famous for.

Visit the nearby trails giving you some of the best views, especially in the fall, making it one of the best small towns north of Toronto.

Driving distance from Toronto to Creemore = 2 hours (122 km)

Elora, located in Wellington County, sits on a stunning gorge alongside the banks of the Grand River. This is the best town in Ontario for adventure all year round with its 25-meter limestone cliffs. From rafting, repelling, ice climbing, ziplining or riverside walks, there is no shortage of things to do.

The downtown in the village of Elora is incredibly charming. With its 19th-century-old buildings being transformed into art studios and galleries, boutique stores and eateries. And, the restaurants, there are plenty! Elora Brewing Co. provides a true craft beer experience not to be missed. This makes Elora one of the best downtowns in Ontario!

Driving distance from Toronto to Elora = 100 minutes (115 km)

Go to Erin for its adorable shops and well-preserved buildings, and with its friendly locals just has to be one of the nicest towns in Ontario.

Indulge your senses at the local chocolatier , where handmade truffles and many velvety confections are made onsite daily. Let your nose guide you to the local bakery where you’re bound to be tempted by their breads and pastries. And for those seeking a high tea experience be sure to reserve a table at Maddie Hatters , a whimsical tea shop.

Erin is the perfect jumping-off point to other beautiful Ontario towns to visit like Elora and Caledon.

Driving distance from Toronto to Erin = 1 hour (80 km)

Fergus is a pretty little town that sits on the Grand River in Wellington County. It has deep Scottish roots dating back to 1833 when its earliest settlers called it “Little Falls.”  The best way to see scenic waterfalls in Fergus is to walk along the river through Templin Gardens.  

Next, take a stroll through the historic downtown along the main street. There are over 200 buildings built in the early 19th century that are now turned into unique shops, antique stores and restaurants.

Lastly, the annual Fergus Scottish Festival and Highland Games are held in August. This is the largest Highland Games festival in North America drawing crowds of over 30,000 people to Fergus.

Driving distance from Toronto to Fergus = 90 minute s (117 km)

7. Galt in Cambridge

Cambridge is a new and thriving city in the Waterloo region since it amalgamated 4 small towns of Galt, Hespeler, Preston and Blair in 1973. There is a long history of Galt in Ontario.

Visit here and you will see it resembles a little piece of Europe. The historic limestone buildings dating back to the mid-1800’s are built right up against the Grand River. Even its farmers’ market dates back to 1830, making it one of the oldest markets of its kind in Canada. 

Walk or bike along the waterfront trails where you will have spectacular views from atop 400-year-old limestone cliffs.

End your day and dine at Cambridge Mill overlooking the Grand River. Or, indulge yourself by visiting Langdon Hall, a Relais & Châteaux property, known for its spa services, fine dining, high tea and luxurious accommodations. 

Driving distance from Toronto to Galt (Cambridge) = 60 minutes (100 km)

8. Goderich

Goderich is located on Ontario’s West Coast in Huron County. It sits on the scenic shores of Lake Huron. This Ontario town is described as “the prettiest town in Canada” by Queen Elizabeth II.

As a coastal town, visitors flock to Goderich for the beach, but it also features an interesting history. The largest underground salt mine is located under Lake Huron, along with the oldest lighthouse and former jail, Huron Gaol, which operated from 1841 to 1970. A former jail has since been converted into a museum and offers a guided ghost tour.  

Driving distance from Toronto to Goderich = 3 hour (230 km)

Jordan , often overshadowed by the nearby Niagara-on-the-Lake, should not be missed. It has an air of sophistication that other cute small towns in Ontario are missing. From the elegant shops and quaint galleries that line the village’s main street to the boutique wine shop of Cave Spring Cellars and the vintage hotel Inn on the Twenty.  

Jordan is the best town to visit in Ontario for wine lovers. Just a stone’s throw away, are some of the best vineyards and wineries in the Niagara region . Here, you can sip away all while soaking in panoramic views that stretch to the horizon.

Driving distance from Toronto to Jordan = 1 hour (105 km)

10. Kincardine

Get ready for one of those beachy cute towns to visit in Ontario. Sitting along the shimmering shores of Lake Huron, Kincardine effortlessly combines the charm of a beach town with a surfer’s vibe that has a quirky vintage feel.

This family-friendly community is a mix of locals and cottage-goers. That interesting mix means the downtown appeals to both crowds in terms of its shops and eateries. And oh, the beach! Feel the sand between your toes while watching some of the best sunsets in Canada!

Driving distance from Toronto to Kincardine = 3 hours (220 km)

11. Niagara-on-the-Lake

It’s no secret that Niagara-on-the-Lake is the most beautiful town in Ontario . Even Forbes named it the Top 5 Weekend Getaway Towns in Ontario! That’s because it offers something for everyone – theatre-goers, shoppers, wine enthusiasts, foodies and history buffs.

Wandering through the quaint downtown streets where the historic architecture creates such a picturesque backdrop to the boutique shops. The surrounding vineyards and wineries offer some of the best wines in the country. The culinary scene is top-notch with many farm-to-table restaurants serving up delectable dishes that celebrate the region’s bountiful produce. Looking for beautiful towns near Toronto, this is it!

Driving distance from Toronto to Niagara-on-the-Lake = 75 minutes (125 km)

Paris Ontario is located in Brant County where the Grand and Nith Rivers meet. It’s no secret that Paris is one of the prettiest towns in Ontario. Against the backdrop of the two rivers sits the small downtown lined with little shops and restaurants.

Venture a couple of streets over to The Paris Wincey Mills Co . This historic building dates back to 1889 and has been transformed into a year-round market with local vendors.

Another thing to do in Paris is gaze upon the town’s different architectural styles, including Victorian, Edwardian, Gothic and Post Modern.

Paris is best known for its cobblestone buildings. Builders used over 14,000 cobblestones all of the nearly identical size drawn from the Grand and Nith Rivers to create several homes and buildings. 

Driving distance from Toronto to Paris = 75  minutes (110 km)

13. Port Dover

Port Dover sits on the shores of Lake Erie in Norfolk County . This laid-back beach town offers up a whole lot more than fun in the sun.

Port Dover’s lighthouse from the mid-1800s is this small town’s most famous beacon. Walk along the long pier for those panoramic lake views. The lively downtown offers many restaurants and several unique shops, easily making it one of the best small towns on the water in Ontario.

Driving distance from Toronto to Port Dover = 2 hours (133 km)

14. Port Stanely

Discover the enchantment of Port Stanley, a hidden treasure among the best towns in Ontario to visit. With its quaint downtown, you’ll find charming boutiques, galleries and artisan shops reflecting the thriving artist community.

Grab a scoop of ice cream and freshly-made waffle cones at  Broderick’s and head to the picturesque harbour offering stunning vistas of Lake Erie. Visiting Port Stanley is a serene escape from your daily life. It’s the kind of community that beckons you to slow down, relax and just soak it all in.

Driving distance from Toronto to Port Stanley = 2.5 hours (219 km)

15. St. Jacobs

St. Jacobs is located in the heart of the Old Order Mennonite community in the Waterloo region and is one of the cutest towns in Ontario. You will see many families on the country roads in traditional horse and buggy.

St. Jacobs is famous for its massive all-year-round Farmers’ Market . You can catch over 300 local vendors on Tuesdays (summer only), Thursdays and Saturdays. Part of the seasonal market includes a craft and flea market. 

After the market, visit the village of St. Jacobs, home to boutique shops, artisan stores, restaurants and its own craft brewery. St. Jacobs is one of the cutest small towns in Ontario you’ll ever visit!

Driving distance from Toronto to St. Jacobs is 75 minutes (120 km)

16. St Marys

St. Marys is located at the junction of the Thames River and Trout Creek in southwestern Ontario. St. Marys is one of the most beautiful towns in Ontario with lots of green spaces and bridges spanning calm river waters. It has a surprisingly rich Canadian history with many designated National Historic Sites.

Stroll the Main Street lined with stores in the historic limestone buildings. And, wander a bit beyond to gaze upon the lovingly restored century-old homes. 

Driving distance from Toronto to St. Marys = 2 hours (168 km)

17. Stratford

Stratford , sits on the banks of the picturesque Avon River, just like England’s Stratford. Take a stroll along the pathway along the gentle flow of the river with an abundant amount of swans linking five beautiful gardens in full bloom in spring, summer and fall. 

Stratford is famous for its theatrical productions, in particular, showcasing the plays of William Shakespeare. The Stratford Festival began in 1952 and welcomes just over 500,000 attendees in a season. 90% of visitors to Stratford come for the Festival.

Beyond this small town being a cultural hub, it is also a foodie hot spot with many top restaurants. Lastly, explore the historic downtown lined with 19th-century buildings filled with many shops and restaurants. Small town shopping doesn’t get any better than in Stratford!

Driving distance from Toronto to Stratford = 100 minutes (149 km)

Small Towns to Visit in Ontario in the East

18. almonte.

You said you liked pretty towns in Ontario. Well, move Almonte to the top of your list! The epitome of small-town charm can be found right here. Its downtown exudes a picturesque allure as if plucked from a Hallmark movie scene.

Its roots as a former mill town, the streets are lined with 19th-century architecture and some of the best shops a girl could ask for, like the Tin Barn Market ! It’s quality over quantity, as this downtown is small, but oh-so-worth it! And, Almonte’s heart is adorned with a beautiful waterfall cascading gracefully right in the centre of the town.

Driving distance from Toronto to Almonte = 4 hours (362 km)

19. Bloomfield

Bloomfield is one of the three best Ontario towns to visit in Prince Edward County. Known as a culinary hot spot, try Seedlings , found in the dining room at Angeline’s Inn, where the menu changes as quickly as the seasons. Or, Flame and Smith with its farm-to-fire menu that uses a custom wood-burning oven to serve up all their dishes including house-baked bread.

After you’ve had your fill, visit the local shops that line the main street- from antiques at Retrospective to Kokito a modern-day general store that has something for everyone. It’s simply one of those nice small towns in Ontario that you’re glad you would have stopped for a visit.

Driving distance from Toronto to Bloomfield = 2.5 hours (207 km)

20. Gananoque

Nestled on the banks of the St. Lawrence River, Gananoque is just one of those charming towns in Ontario you’ll want to visit. With a a rich heritage dating back to its early days as a lumbering and shipping hub is located near the Thousand Islands region, which means it offers a picturesque landscape dotted with emerald islands and crystal-clear waters.

Explore the town’s historic stone buildings, that are full of delicious eateries like Laverne’s Eatery (yum!) and a microbrewery called Gan Brewing Company . This scenic town is all about the food and less about the cute shops. But it makes up for it by offering an incredible view of the busy boat harbour and of the St. Lawrence River.

Driving distance from Toronto to Gananoque = 2.5 hours (288 km)

Perth, one of the prettiest small towns in Ontario, is chock-full of well-preserved heritage buildings, making it a charming hub for shopping, galleries, and cafes lining the downtown.

Start at the iconic Code’s Mill, a historic stone structure dating back to 1842, house unique shops like Perth Chocolate Works . The town’s vibrant downtown is a shopper’s haven all along the streets of Gore and Foster. From antique shops to art galleries, stores for children and cute gift shops Perth has many things you can see and do .

What makes Perth one of the most beautiful small towns in Ontario is Stewart Park. Nestled in the heart of town, this park offers expansive lawns, lush gardens, and picturesque bridges set against the backdrop of the meandering river.

Driving distance from Toronto to Perth = 3.5 hours (321 km)

Picton is one of the cute Ontario towns in Prince Edward County. Stroll the main street filled with cute shops. Grab a coffee at Miss Lily’s Café and browse the next-door Books and Company shop.

A fun thing to do in Prince Edward County is to have a picnic at the nearby Sandbanks. Pick up the fixings at Agrarian Market , and assemble some of the finest local cheeses, salads, and sneak in some of their chocolate chip cookies too.

I know I’m not alone in saying that I’ve fallen in love with Prince Edward County’s relaxed vibe, and Picton is one of the best cool towns in Ontario to visit.

Driving distance from Toronto to Picton = 2.5 hours (213 km)

23. Port Hope

A small town near Toronto worthy of a visit is Port Hope. Port Hope beckons with a picturesque downtown graced by a flowing river known for its outstanding trout fishing.

But it’s also known for offering the best small town shopping in Ontario. The main street lined with its tall Victorian architecture boasts many boutiques, galleries and cafes. If you adore antique hunting as much as I do, there’s no better place than Port Hope. Antiques on Queen is my favourite right next to the Capitol Theatre, a lovingly restored 1930s movie theatre.

Start your day at Milley’s Market , a little slice of Europe with its gorgeous interiors and imported fine food products. Owner Liza recommended their coffee and gelato as it’s a locals’ favourite. The famous burgers at Olympus Burger , featured on the Food Network’s “You Gotta Eat Here” holds down the best burger in Canada title. This is one of my favourite small towns east of Toronto.

Driving distance from Toronto to Port Hope = 1 hour (107 km)

24. Port Perry

Port Perry is just one of those nice towns to visit in Ontario. Positioned alongside Lake Scugog, the town’s scenic beauty is enhanced by its Victorian-era architecture.

Wander along the downtown’s Queen Street, adorned with an array of clothing boutiques, vintage stores, bookshops, furnishing outlets, and art galleries, all nestled amidst the backdrop of historic Victoria-era buildings.

Pop into the famous Hank’s Pastries for their cinnamon buns and the long-standing Nutty Chocolatier is a must for those with a sweet tooth. The Piano Inn & Cafe is a great spot for lunch, and a visit to the Old Flame Brewery is a popular spot to taste some local beer.

Driving distance from Toronto to Picton = 1 hour (83 km)

25. Wellington

Wellington is a small town to visit in Ontario while in Prince Edward County.

So, start your day with a visit to the Italian-inspired coffee shop called Enid Grace Culinary & Piccolina and now you’re ready to explore. Rent bikes and tour some of the nearby wineries and vineyards . Stop at Norman Hardie for their delicious woodfire pizza and buttery chardonnay on the patio.

Or, beer lovers make your way to Midtown Brewing , one of The County’s top microbreweries where my husband recommends the giant cheeseburger to go with one of their ales. Lastly, the Drake Devonshire is the coveted hotspot for brunch.

Driving distance from Toronto to Bloomfield = 2.5 hours (200 km)

Recommended Places to Stay

Some of the small beautiful towns in Ontario might need a weekend getaway because of their distance from home, but many of them offer so much to see and do, that it’s impossible to experience them in just a couple of hours.

Luckily I have some resources to help plan your weekend getaway! So, let’s dive in.

In the East

For the towns in Prince Edward County – Wellington, Bloomfield and Picton

• A curated list of the best property rentals (Airbnbs) in The County

For the towns of Perth and Almonte, here’s where I stay – a lakeside cottage with a touch of lux living called The West House .

The West (Main) House, is an amazing lakeside retreat situated on the shores of Upper Rideau Lake. The allure of this Airbnb lies not only in its breathtaking lake views but also in its thoughtfully designed interior.

Large open living, dining and relaxing spaces perfect for families and friends to gather. A large chef’s kitchen, a coffee/tea nook, a dedicated home office and two balconies for quiet time to admire the view of the lake.

This 3-bedroom house can sleep up to 6 adults and 4 children. For even larger gatherings, you can book the cute lightly renovated Lake House bungalows that are on this large property.

With a crackling outdoor fire pit and a dock offering idyllic lakeside lounging, The West House sets the stage for a truly remarkable escape in the East region.

Check the Price and Availability of this Airbnb

In the South

Niagara-on-the-Lake is hands down a perfect weekend away destination.

• Enjoy a romantic getaway weekend with Niagara’s Finest Hotels

In the West

The shores of Lake Huron need to be enjoyed with an overnight stay. How else might you catch the beautiful sunrise and sunset?

• A curated list of the best property rentals (Airbnbs) near Bayfield , Grand Bend, and Goderich
• A curated list of the best property rentals (Airbnbs) near Kincardine , Sauble Beach and South Hampton

As a Holidaymaker

There’s nothing better than spontaneously hitting the road and spending the day in a small town in Ontario where life is a little simpler and a bit more charming. You now have a list of towns to visit near Toronto.

Each of these nice towns in Ontario offers you something a little unique, making them all worth visiting. Thanks for stopping by.

Creator, Founder of Dream Plan Experience

She specializes exclusively in European travel and crafting unforgettable day trips within her home province of Ontario, Canada.

She has been travelling to Europe for over 35 years and has lived abroad in Germany twice. Revisiting countries and exploring them extensively to create in depth travel itineraries, destination guides and helping travellers plan their trips to Europe through her customized services.

She also is a co-partner in a woman-led company that offers luxury retreats in Europe offering immersive cultural experiences.

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Ontario , Things to Do

15 best small towns in ontario (for a weekend getaway).

Ontario, Canada, is every outdoor lover’s paradise. With a vast wilderness and 250,000 freshwater lakes, anyone who enjoys an outdoor adventure should put Ontario at the top of their travel bucket list.

The province offers plenty of opportunities to explore with everything from road trips to canoeing, ziplining, hiking, and so much more. You will also find some of the cutest small towns in Ontario scattered throughout!

Covering an area larger than France and Spain combined, you’re guaranteed to never get bored while traveling throughout Ontario.

If you want to get a taste of small-town charm, you’re sure to find it in Ontario. Here’s our list of the best small towns in Ontario that are packed with fun adventures.

Did we miss any charming Ontario small towns? Let us know in the comments. Thanks!

Best Small Towns in Ontario

Perth is a gorgeous small town in Lanark County that stands out with its Victorian-style architecture and seasonal decor.

Stewart Park is sprinkled with heritage buildings that create the perfect backdrop for memorable photos.

Here you can take a relaxing stroll, organize picnics under willow trees, or simply soak up the sun as you explore wooden bridges and flower-filled gardens.

If you are keen to learn more about the city’s history, head to the award-winning Perth Museum nestled inside the Matheson House or Hall of Remembrance Military Museum to witness thousands of military artifacts from the two World Wars.

Admire the local art scene in Studio 87 and Riverguild Fine Crafts, catch a great show at the Studio Theater, savor delicious craft beer at Weatherhead Brew Co., and go canoeing or kayaking on the Tay River.

After exploring the city, pop over to Code’s Mill, an old mill that is now packed with multiple shops and restaurants.

2. Port Perry

Though small, Port Perry , nestled along the southern shores of Lake Scugog, boasts a rich heritage, outdoor adventures, and a shopping scene that makes you feel like you are in a much bigger city.

Delve deep into the city’s history in Scugog Shores Museum Village, home to 11 restored buildings, heritage vegetable, and herb gardens, and thousands of original artifacts.

Enjoying watersports on dazzling Lake Scugog is one of the best ways to spend a day in Port Perry.

Set aside a few hours to stroll down Queen Street to admire Victorian Era architecture, browse art galleries, and do vintage shopping.

Besides offering a splash pad, walking trails, picnic tables, and scenic waterfront views, serene Palmer Park is the main hub of local events and festivals.

Marvel at the talents of local artists in Kent Farndale Gallery, explore rich flora and fauna in Nonquon Wildlife Area, and appreciate the city’s art and culture in Town Hall Theatre.

Almonte is a 19th-century mill town perfect for history buffs, so if you are one, it will feel like heaven to you.

Start your journey on Mill Street, downtown’s main road packed with a series of murals depicting historic figures and lined with heritage buildings, such as the Old Almonte Post Office and the Victoria Woollen Mill, and many shopping and dining sites.

Explore Almonte’s industrial past and learn more about the history of the woolen industry in the Mississippi River Valley area in the Mississippi Valley Textile Museum.

You can dig deep into the area’s geologic history in Metcalfe Geoheritage Park, browse through pictures and artifacts from the inventor of basketball Dr. James Naismith’s past at the Dr. James Naismith Museum, and hike or bike at the Mill of Kintail Conservation Area.

Take a scenic walk along the stunning Almonte Riverwalk to admire many historic buildings, including Almonte Old Town Hall, built-in 1885, and take in the breathtaking views of the Mississippi River and its waterfalls.

4. Huntsville

Whether you’re seeking a unique weekend getaway or simply want to take a serene day trip from a big city, gorgeous Huntsville should be your go-to option.

Outdoor enthusiasts will love Algonquin Provincial Park and Arrowhead Provincial Park for camping, paddleboarding, swimming, canoeing, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing mountain biking, and hiking opportunities.

Wander around Downtown Huntsville, admire historic buildings, check out the diverse shopping and dining scene, and then head to Lions Lookout, which will reward you with mesmerizing views of Fairly Lake.

In the winter months, you can get out on the slopes at Hidden Valley Highlands Ski Area or go snowmobiling on over 2,000 kilometers of groomed trails.

If you are interested in learning about the area’s history, then make sure to stop at Muskoka Heritage Place, where you can enjoy a ride on a fully functioning steam train and visit Pioneer Village, the Muskoka Museum, and the Steam Museum.

Best known for its 19th-century limestone construction and the Elora Gorge, quaint Elora is a gorgeous small village tucked away in Ontario’s Grand River Valley.

First of all, visit Elora Gorge Lookout to marvel at the stunning vistas of the Grand River and try adrenaline-filled hiking, swimming, fishing, canoeing, tubing, and camping in the Gorge.

Elora Quarry is another must-visit site where you can take a dip in turquoise waters and explore steep limestone cliffs.

Visit Wellington Museum and Archives to see what early life in Wellington County used to be like, pop over to Elora Mews to indulge in some good retail therapy, or treat yourself to rejuvenating treatments in Elora Mill and Spa.

Take a relaxing stroll along the Bissell Park Boardwalk, enjoy nature in the Elora Quarry Conservation Area, hike and bike the Elora Cataract Trail, and experience the city’s arts and culture at the Elora Centre for the Arts.

6. Grand Bend

Nestled on the shores of Lake Huron, the gorgeous Grand Bend is one of southern Ontario’s premier summer destinations. Grand Bend Beach is the main gem where locals and visitors alike flock to soak up some sun.

Lighthouse chasers shouldn’t miss walking over the pier to witness the majestic Grand Bend Lighthouse.

Hypnotic sunset views await you in Pinery Provincial Park, which offers diverse flora and fauna, amazing trails, sandy beach, camping, canoeing, and so much more.

Daredevils can watch drag racing with bikes, sleds, and rocket cars in Grand Bend Motorplex, enjoy watersports on Lake Huron, and catch a thrill while skydiving at Grand Bend Sport Parachuting Center.

Go for a special treasure hunt in Dale’s Antique Market & Mennonite Furniture, shop for some unique finds at in the Pinery Antique Flea Market, learn more about Lambton County’s early industrial and agricultural past in Lambton Heritage Museum, and take home a piece of stunning art from Sunset Arts Gallery.

7. Stratford

Experience the real small-town charm in quaint Stratford , located on the picturesque banks of the Avon River and only a 1.5-hour drive from Toronto.

Immerse yourself in your own fairytale by wandering through the Shakespearean Gardens, which once included only those plants that were featured in Shakespeare’s plays.

Attend a magnificent performance at the internationally recognized Stratford Festival, check out local produce at the Stratford Farmers’ Market, stroll along the stunning Avon River to admire swans and geese, go art shopping at Stratford Art in the Park, and indulge your taste buds with delicious samples on one of Stratford Culinary Trails.

Stanford has its own way of displaying contemporary art exhibits, which you can certainly experience in Gallery Stratford or Stratford Perth Museum.

If you are visiting Stratford during the summer season, take part in the annual Stratford Summer Music Concert, while in the winter, you can enjoy the Lights On Stratford Winter Festival, which transforms the city into a real wonderland of lights.

8. Fort Frances

The tiny town of Fort Frances is packed with plenty of recreation opportunities, history, and adventures; the perfect mix for every taste.

Leave the 21st century behind as you enter the Fort Frances Museum, where you can witness a number of exhibits and artifacts depicting the history of Fort Frances.

Take a stroll along 3.5-mile Norden Causeway or bike waterfront La Verendrye Parkway to take in the breathtaking views of Rainy Lake.

Nature lovers can’t miss fishing, sailing, boating on Rainy Lake, swimming, relaxing, camping, golfing, and simply sunbathing in Pither’s Point Park.

The winter season makes this city absolute heaven for winter sports adventures. Go sliding at the Little Beaver Snow Park and enjoy cross-country skiing at the 8th Street Trails.

Other must-visit attractions are the Rainy Lake Mermaid in the middle of Rainy Lake, the Hallett, the Big Chair, and the Lookout Tower.

9. Westport

Nestled to the west of Rideau Lake in Eastern Ontario, charming Westport is truly a sight to behold.

Your first stop should be ​​Westport Rideau Lakes Visitor’s Welcome Centre, which gives visitors advice on what to do in Westport.

The scenic views of the town, the lakes, and the harbor below from the Foley Mountain lookout point can’t get better than this.

Spend more time in nature in the Foley Conservation Area, which is home to forests, ponds, and fields, and offers hiking and walking trails, camping, and picnic areas.

History buffs should check out Rideau District Museum to learn about Westport’s early history. Wolfe Lake and Sand Lake provide ideal conditions for fishing and water sports adventures.

Sip a glass of local wine in Scheuermann Vineyard and Winery, get your daily dose of vitamin D while sunbathing at Westport Sand Lake Beach, enjoy boating or canoeing on the Rideau Canal, and stop by the Westport Farmers’ Market for fresh produce.

Wawa is a gorgeous city most famous for its giant goose statue perched on a large rock over the Trans Canada Highway.

Reconnect with nature in Lake Superior Provincial Park, canoe or kayak to explore Wawa from the water, try fishing at Lake Superior’s inland sea, and hike the Lake Superior Coastal Trail to explore rich flora and fauna.

Those after pristine scenery should check out Sand River Falls, Scenic High Falls, Silver Falls, or Wawa Creek Falls. Heritage Park, Lions Beach, and Sandy Beach.

These are the perfect areas to organize picnics, soak up local history, and let the kids loose in the playground.

To get a real taste of the area’s unique culture, make sure to participate in the Wawa Music Festival, the annual Festival of Lights, or visit Goose Nest Market.

Everyone from first-time riders to seasoned ones shouldn’t miss Wawa’s 400 km of perfectly groomed trails for snowmobiling, sledding, and 10 km trails for skating and cross country skiing.

Picton is a stunning coastal town in Prince Edward County that woos visitors with its architecturally-significant buildings, rich cultural heritage, and exciting adventures.

Take a glimpse into the past in Macaulay Heritage Park, which houses the Macaulay House built in 1830, the old St. Mary Magdalene Parish Cemetery, the historic former Church of St. Mary Magdalene, the Heritage Gardens, and the Carriage House.

Visit the Bay of Quinte and hop on Glenora Ferry to experience Picton in style.

Captivating scenery awaits you at Lake on the Mountain, nestled on the top of a mountain in Picton, that draws many visitors due to its mysterious nature.

Quench your thirst for contemporary and historic art gems in Oeno Gallery, enjoy camping, boating, and fishing in Benson Park, sunbathe on sandy beaches at Sandbanks Provincial Park, and explore endangered species in Point Petre Wildlife Conservation Area.

12. Niagara-on-the-Lake

Niagara-on-the-Lake  also referred to as Ontario’s prettiest town, has long been an important part of Canada’s history.

First things first, you need to explore the historic downtown packed with Victorian red-brick buildings, antique shops, restaurants, and galleries.

Stroll down historic Queen Street to witness the Memorial Clock Tower, the courthouse building dating from 1846, Ontario’s first pharmacy, the cenotaph, the historic Prince of Wales hotel, and one of the Shaw Festival playhouses.

Your Niagara-on-the-Lake trip won’t be complete without visiting world-famous Niagara wineries, such as Peller Estates and Henry of Pelham, to savor signature fine wines.

Step back in time as you explore Fort George, where soldiers walk around in period attire as though time has stopped.

Take in a play or two at Shaw Festival, walk through Queen’s Royal Park, stop at the Niagara-on-the-Lake Museum, get artsy at Niagara Pumphouse Arts Centre, and drive or bike along the Niagara Parkway to pass by Queenston Heights Park, the Laura Secord Homestead, and Fort George.

13. Port Hope

For a dose of quaint Ontario charm, it’s hard to do better than Port Hope . Explore Port Hope’s historical assets at Port Hope Public Library, the Port Hope Archives, Dorothy’s House Museum, or visit 19th-century Wesleyville Village to witness old buildings and time-weathered tombstones that date back to the 1860s.

Get into nature while hiking through the 4,000-hectare Ganaraska Forest, which features over 100 trails for hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding.

Thrill-seekers will love challenging Treetop Trekking adventures in the forest. Sunset chasers should definitely pay a visit to West Beach for that perfect Instagram-worthy sunset shot.

Immerse yourself in public art as you stroll past the Salmon Trail, and Sports Day Mural, enjoy a picnic at the Garden Hill Conservation Area, see a hive in action in Dancing Bee Farm and Observatory, marvel at unique arts and crafts at Primitive Designs, and experience vintage glamour in Capitol Theatre.

14. Niagara Falls

Nestled on the edge of the Niagara Gorge, Niagara Falls is the premier destination of the Niagara Region.

No need to mention that you have to start your journey by visiting Niagara Falls, one of the world’s most breathtaking and most famous waterfalls.

Two of the most popular attractions are the Niagara Hornblower Cruise, which offers close-up tours to the base of the falls in 700-passenger catamaran boats, and the Skylon Tower, which rewards you with a magnificent bird’s eye view of the city, stunning Niagara Falls, and majestic Niagara Escarpment.

Get your daily dose of adrenaline in the Whirlpool Aero Car that will take you over the roiling waters of the Whirlpool Rapids in Niagara River.

Those wanting to learn more about the city’s history can visit Niagara Falls History Museum, Niagara Military Museum, and Chippawa Battlefield Park.

Take in the city’s sweeping views from another perspective aboard Niagara SkyWheel, get away from all the noise and people in Queen Victoria Park, or see your favorite stars in the Avalon Theatre.

15. Town of Blue Mountain

Bursting with small-town charm, the Town of Blue Mountain is the perfect place to experience a serene gateway and spice it up with thrilling adventures.

In winter, the city becomes true heaven for winter fans. Here you can go cross-country skiing on 27 kilometers of terrain or enjoy skiing and snowboarding at Blue Mountain Resort, Alpine Ski Club, or Craigleith Ski Club.

Explore the town’s unique culture at the Craigleith Heritage Depot museum, admire local art at the L.E. Shore Gallery, or learn and research in the Blue Mountains Public Library’s inclusive environment.

Lace up your hiking boots and head to hiking Town Trails, enjoy family hangouts in Bayview Park, and unleash your competitive spirit in Moreau Park.

The city is home to a number of beaches, such as Northwinds Beach, Council Beach, and Peasemarsh Beach, perfect for swimming or simply gazing up at the marvelous views.

Did we miss any amazing small towns in Ontario? Let us know the best Ontario small towns worth checking out in the comments. Thanks!

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13 Best Small Towns in Ontario

Written by Michael Law Updated May 11, 2023

Author Michael Law lives in southern Ontario and frequently visits the small towns in northwestern Ontario, where he spends time every summer.

What makes a great small town in Ontario? Well, ask that question, and you might get a different answer from each of the province's 14.5 million residents. Some towns have a perfect natural setting on a lake; others may have wonderful and historic architecture; while some claim that they are hotbeds of culture and theater.

Ontario, Canada's most populous province, and its fine assortment of small towns, are spread far and wide. Some of these charming places to visit are day trips from the Greater Toronto Area (GTA) or from Ottawa; others are much further afield.

When to go is a consideration as well. Beach towns come alive in the summer and slumber all winter, while ski towns hum with excitement and anticipation of the next snowfall during the winter months. No matter what time you visit, you'll definitely find a great assortment of things to do in Ontario's best small towns.

1. Niagara-on-the-Lake

3. town of blue mountain, 4. stratford, 5. grand bend, 7. port perry, 8. huntsville, 9. fort frances, 11. niagara falls, 12. gananoque, 13. port hope, map of small towns in ontario.

Niagara-on-the-Lake makes for something a bit more low-key and tasteful than its more lively cousin up on the hill, Niagara Falls. Here, you'll find genteel homes on leafy streets, a pleasant main street with historical buildings, and a waterfront area with views back to Toronto. A short walk from downtown, you can step back in time to 1812 at the Fort George National Historic Site .

What some people may not realize is that Niagara-on-the-Lake is also home to the Shaw Festival . Throughout the summer across three stages around town, the plays of George Bernard Shaw and others are performed. A perfect romantic weekend can be had by checking into a bed and breakfast or historical inn, enjoying a leisurely first-class dinner, and then heading out to a show each evening.

Niagara-on-the-Lake is also an excellent place for exploring by bicycle. Trails follow the Niagara River and pass through beautiful leafy countryside and pastoral farms. Pack a picnic lunch and make an afternoon of touring around.

Prince Edward County , known colloquially as "The County" has, over the past number of years, grown to be a delightful place to visit. The area has a bit of everything, which makes it a compelling destination for just about everyone. The town at the center of it all is Picton.

Centrally located, this historical town of just over 4,700 people makes an ideal base to explore the surrounding areas. Families with children will want to make a beeline for Sandbanks Provincial Park , where kids can run down huge sand dunes into the waters of Lake Ontario.

Those more interested in home décor and antiques will be in their element at any one of the multitude of eclectic shops in town and throughout the county. Planning a special dinner back at your rental home or cottage? Stop by any one of the fruit and vegetable stands along the highway. The Black River Cheese store in Milford is not to be missed.

Accommodation in town ranges from standard hotels to exclusive B&Bs, with a bit of everything else in between.

Some say the town of Blue Mountain is best in the winter, when the Blue Mountain Ski Resort , one of the best ski resorts in Ontario , is in full operation. Others say the summer is the best time to visit, when the hiking and mountain biking trails are open, and the sunny restaurant patios are thronged with visitors.

In the summer , a small mill pond has water trike and paddleboat rentals, or bring your own. More adventuresome folks will want to hit the climbing wall and rope courses or take a run on the Ridge Runner Mountain Coaster. Those looking for something a bit more leisurely can take an open-air gondola ride or use the putting course.

In the winter , the ski hill is packed most weekends with folks slip-sliding down the snowy slopes. After the slopes close, a lively après ski scene emerges in the village.

No matter what seasonal option you choose, this small town will surely delight you. Just over two hours from downtown Toronto, the town at the base of the ski hill is a pedestrian-only area. Shops line the street, and you'll be able to get the latest ski fashions in the winter and the hottest summer gear when the temperature rises.

The town of Stratford has long been known as an arts and cultural center in the province. It's here, way back in 1953, that the concept of the Stratford Festival was conceived, and the plays of William Shakespeare were first performed live on stage.

Today, the season consists of a dozen or more events staged in four venues. The performances are not limited to Shakespeare - musicals, contemporary plays, and dramas are also performed.

There's more to Stratford than the performing arts. The city is wonderfully walkable with a lively main street full of restaurants, shops, and eclectic boutiques. The city is also known for its parks that line the Avon River, including Shakespeare Gardens, Upper Queen's Park, and Lower Queens Park.

One of Ontario's quintessential summer beach towns , Grand Bend has been drawing sunseekers since the 1900s. Today it's home to one of Ontario's best beaches , a long stretch of sand starting where the Ausable River drains into Lake Ontario.

It's the place to come to see and be seen on the beach. You can choose to lie on your towel, sit in your beach chair with a good book, or stroll along the shoreline and do a bit of people-watching. Back from the beach is a funky main street with fast food and ice-cream shops competing with beach shops and mini-golf courses for your hard-earned dollars.

Just down the road from Grand Bend is Pinery Provincial Park , one of Ontario's most popular parks. If you want to make a weekend of your trip to Grand Bend and are watching your pennies, a cheap way to do it is to camp in the park and drive the short distance to town. Pinery has one of the best campgrounds in Ontario .

The small town of Elora has one of the most picturesque settings in the province, set along the scenic Grand River. Take a stroll on one of the bridges over the river, and be sure to check out the Elora Gorge Falls .

The downtown area is packed with restored buildings dating from the early 19th century. Wander up and down the main street, and pop into any one of the assortment of art galleries, boutiques, and independent shops.

Elora has an excellent selection of restaurants, some with sunny patios, serving both local and international fare. Although Elora is an easy day trip from Toronto or Hamilton, it also makes a great place to stay overnight. You'll find B&Bs in historical homes scattered throughout the city, along with high-end boutique lodging.

For those less interested in shopping and dining and more into water fun, take the short drive from town to the Elora Gorge Conservation Area . It's here that you can rent inner tubes and float your way down the Grand River. The campground here is one of the closest to Toronto and boasts 400 sites.

Port Perry, located on the shores of Lake Scugog, has a lively buzz about it. The main street is full of fashion boutiques and one-of-a-kind shops selling everything you never thought you might have needed. Also on main street are restaurants, pastry shops, and a chocolate shop.

The town has done an excellent job of maintaining its historical main street, and as a result, has been the filming location for many movies over the years. Take a stroll back from downtown, and you'll find leafy streets lined with some rather grand old homes.

Port Perry is located just over an hour from downtown Toronto.

The town of Huntsville is the gateway to one of Ontario's best parks, Algonquin Provincial Park. Huntsville is located in rugged Canadian Shield country, with exposed granite, clear lakes, and large white pines. Just a 2.5-hour drive north of Toronto, this outdoorsy town is perfect for a weekend in Ontario's northland.

Take a stroll up and down the main street, and check out the shops. One of the best is Algonquin Outfitters ; they have all the latest camping, canoeing, and hiking gear. If you've worked up an appetite, the center of town has a variety of good restaurants with extensive patios overlooking the river.

In winter, the town hosts a number of events and offers access to outdoor activities like snowshoeing, ice fishing, skating, snowmobiling, dogsledding, cross-country skiing, and even downhill skiing at nearby Hidden Valley Highlands Ski Area.

Located on the border of the United States, across from International Falls, MN in the far northwest of the province, Fort Frances bills itself as the place for "Boundless Adventures." This moniker is a good one - the town is beautifully positioned on Rainy Lake, allowing for easy access to world-class fishing, boating, and snowmobiling in the winter.

The town's main thoroughfare, Scott Street, has undergone a big overhaul, with new sidewalks and a brand-new central park. It's here throughout the summer that you'll find markets and live music.

Just south of the downtown area, you'll find the wonderful La Verendrye Parkway. This urban walking trail runs along the shores of Rainy River for 3.6 kilometers, eventually joining up to a trail leading to Pither's Point Park.

Along the way, be sure to stop at the Sorting Gap Marina for an ice cream, check out the 33-meter (100-foot) viewing tower nearby, and take a tour of the 60-foot-long Hallett Tugboat.

Located in the wilds of far northern Ontario, just back from Lake Superior is the town of Wawa. You may have heard about it, owing to its giant Canada Goose statue on the hill just off the Trans Canada Highway.

This unassuming town has had a bit of a renaissance as of late, with infrastructure improvements along main street making for a more pleasant urban experience. However, one of the main attractions in town, Wawa Lake, is one that many people miss. This large lake has massive tree-covered hills on both sides, and the shoreline in Wawa is a beautiful golden-sand beach. It's a pleasant place to stretch your legs after a long day in the car, or if you are staying in town, set up a beach towel and go swimming in the crystal-clear water.

Wawa is an attractive option for rugged outdoor enthusiasts looking to fish, snowmobile, or go ATVing. It's also less than 20 minutes from Lake Superior Provincial Park , where you'll find beautiful beaches and great opportunities for kayaking, camping, and hiking.

While it's actually a small city rather than a small town, Niagara Falls has the feel of a small town and provides a lot of bang for your buck. Home to one of the world's most amazing natural attractions, this tourist-friendly city is always open for business. A short distance from Toronto, it's easily reachable via five different transport options making it an easy day trip from the city but also a great place to spend a weekend.

Attractions here include the falls, of course, but don't forget the wonderful flower displays and gardens along the Niagara Parkway, the Floral Clock, a boat trip to the base of the falls or through the rapids, or even a tour through the damp tunnels in behind. A new attraction is the Historic Power Station, recently restored to its former 1905 glory.

Niagara Falls accommodation is extensive, with an assortment of hotels in all price ranges, and securing a deal, especially in the off-season, can represent tremendous value.

When to go is an ongoing debate. Some people claim Niagara Falls is better in the winter, when the tourists have vanished and the waterfall is festooned with intricate icicles. Others say it's better in the summer, when the gardens are in full bloom and all the attractions are open.

The small town of Gananoque enjoys a prime position on the St. Lawrence River in the Thousand Islands region. Each summer, the town comes to life as thousands of tourists, cottagers, and day trippers descend to enjoy the spectacular scenery surrounding the city.

Things to do here include boat tours to highlights along the St. Lawrence River. Other highlights along the river include Millionaire's Row and St Lawrence River National Park.

However, it's not all about the river. The town has a pleasant downtown with shops and restaurants, some with welcoming patios.

Port Hope is one of the oldest towns along the shores of Lake Ontario and is home to wonderfully restored 19th-century buildings. In fact, the town makes the bold claim that they have the best preserved main street in Ontario. Judge for yourself by taking a trip to this delightful small town, home to just over 16,500 residents.

Park the car and wander around downtown. Pop into a wide range of interesting and eclectic shops — you never know what you might find. Later, grab a bite to eat at a local restaurant on a sunny patio overlooking the Ganaraska River or grab a spot at a picnic table and select something tasty at one of the food trucks.

One of the best times to visit Port Hope is during the annual salmon migration that takes place between August and October. At the Port Hope fish ladder, it's quite the sight as thousands of fish leap out of the water on their way to the spawning grounds up the river.

More on Canada

Ontario Tourism Information

Why visit ontario.

A third of Canada’s population lives in Ontario , and the city of Toronto — the country’s largest — contains most of Canada’s world-class attractions, entertainment, and shopping. The national capital of Ottawa is home to many interesting sights involving Canadian history and government , while the more rural “ cottage country ” regions are where locals go to enjoy the great outdoors.

Orientation

Northern Ontario is largely uninhabited, and most of the province’s major population centers, including Toronto , are located in the southeastern corner, around the massive Lake Ontario . Despite the name, so-called  Central Ontario  — the scenic, nature-filled region — can be found by driving only a few hours in any direction outside greater Toronto. Ottawa is about a four hour drive northeast of Toronto, and sits on Ontario’s border with Quebec .

A view of the Toronto skyline from the Toronto Islands. Andy.M/Shutterstock

In the centre of downtown is Toronto's enormous city hall, surrounded by a large open plaza known as Nathan Phillips Square . Named after a former mayor, it's a popular gathering place for concerts, festivals, and protests.

Toronto Tourism

Canada’s largest city.

Toronto is a sprawling city bordered on the south by the coast of Lake Ontario , with the downtown core located in a wide column of neighborhoods that extend perpendicular from Bloor Street in the north all the way to the coast of the lake (the Waterfront ). Downtown Toronto is divided into dozens of distinctive neighborhoods, many of which are defined by their strong ethnic identities, such as Little Italy , Greek Town ,  Little Portugal , and Chinatown . Toronto’s answer to New York’s Times Square is Yonge and Dundas Square , a famously busy downtown intersection awash in garish billboard advertisements and flashing signs.

Canada’s largest building, the CN Tower , looms over Toronto and is one of the country’s busiest tourist attractions. For $35 you can go to the top and check out the city below from various lookout points or dine at an exceedingly expensive restaurant. In recent years, an insane new feature called the “ Edgewalk ” has been added, allowing thrill-seekers to literally walk along the outside edge of the tower while attached to a safety harness.

The far east end of the greater downtown area is bordered by the sprawling High Park , which contains the sort of amenities one generally expects from a large city park, including walking trails and sports fields. Much of the city’s other attractive parklands are located outside the city altogether, on the so-called Toronto Islands which sit in Lake Ontario and can be accessed by car tunnel or passenger ferry. The larger islands are all tightly packed together and connected by small bridges. Along with ample green space, they’re home to a children’s amusement park, restaurants, and some small beaches popular in the summer.

The Toronto Zoo is the fifth largest on earth, with an incredible assortment of exotic animals from every continent, including two Canadian-born pandas. It is about a 45 minute drive from downtown.

• Official Website, Tourism Toronto
• 10 Top Tourist Attractions in Toronto, Touropia

The Royal Ontario museum was expanded in 2007 with a distinctive metallic annex, designed by architect Daniel Libeskind (b. 1946).

Museums and Galleries

Housed in two equally imposing buildings, Toronto has two major museums, the Art Gallery of Ontario ( AGO ) and the Royal Ontario Museum ( ROM ). The AGO, as the name suggests, is a gallery of art — mostly paintings — spanning a diverse array of styles, eras, and nationalities, including a large assortment of Canadian art. The ROM is a more generalized museum with exhibits on art, history, geography, nature, animals, dinosaurs, and more. Both feature touring special exhibits from other countries.

The official museum of the National Hockey League, the Hockey Hall of Fame ,   is a colorful, modern museum focused on professional hockey greats past and present, with showcases of artifacts and many interactive, computer-based activities for kids. For an additional $10 you can get your photograph taken with the Stanley Cup .

The Ontario parliament buildings are located in the middle of a green area in the northern part of downtown known as Queen’s Park . Given how much Canadian history revolves around Ontario, the provincial parliament doubles as a thorough museum of Canada’s political past.

Eaton Centre mall in downtown Toronto. Jon Bilous/Shutterstock

Toronto has many malls, but the grandest is the enormous Eaton Centre , located on Yonge Street — the centre of downtown shopping. Higher end stores can be found many blocks north, in the elite Bloor Yorkville neighborhood. The long Queen Street is home to trendy and unique boutique-style stores. An even bigger, grander mall, the Yorkdale Shopping Centre , is about a 30 minute drive from downtown. It also has its own subway stop.

Kensington Market is an eccentric and bohemian downtown shopping district full of quirky independent stores and restaurants. Way on the other end of town is the indoor St. Lawerence Market , a historic marketplace with dozens of artisanal vendors selling fresh goods like meat, fish, cheeses, baked goods, candy, and more.

Benedict Cumberbatch (b. 1976) signs autographs at the 2013 TIFF .

Toronto has an entire neighborhood south of Richmond Street West known as the Entertainment District that’s home to an assortment of popular bars and nightclubs. Toronto’s large gay scene makes its home in an area around northern Church Street known as Church-Wellesley Village .

The Canadian National Exhibition , better known as the CNE or simply “ the Ex ,” is a large outdoor fair that’s been hosted by Toronto every year since 1879. Held during the final three weeks of summer, the CNE features rides, animal shows, shopping pavilions, live music, and plenty of things to eat.

Toronto Pride is one of the biggest LGBT celebrations anywhere on earth. It now consumes the entire month of July, though most of the partying still revolves around the massive Pride Parade held on the month’s first weekend.

The Toronto International Film Festival takes over the city every fall. Many Hollywood blockbusters make their debut here, along with numerous indie films. Movies are shown all over the city, though the ease of getting tickets will greatly vary. Directors and actors often show up for post-movie Q and A sessions.

Spectator Sports

Toronto is home to Canada’s only NBA team, the Toronto Raptors , who play in the Air Canada Centre , as well as the country’s only MLB team, the Toronto Blue Jays , who play in Rogers Centre   (formerly known as the SkyDome ).

Toronto’s long-suffering NHL team, the infamous Toronto Maple Leafs , play in the Air Canada Centre when the Raptors don’t.

The Rogers Centre arena during a Blue Jays game. Stephen Staley

Relaxing Adirondack chairs are a common symbol of Ontario cottage country, seen here on the shore of Lake of Two Rivers in the Haliburton Highlands .

Ontario Tourism Outside Toronto

Located in the city of  Vaughan ,   Canada’s Wonderland is the biggest amusement park in Canada with giant roller coasters, a water slide park, acrobat shows, and more. Fun for the whole family!

Canada’s most famous tourist attraction of all, the epic waterfalls of Niagara Falls are located about 90 minutes from downtown Toronto along the bank of the Niagara River , which also serves as a US-Canadian border. The two falls, Horseshoe Falls and Bridal Veil Falls , can be viewed up close by special boat tours, while the area around them, known as Clifton Hill , has grown into a sprawling, Las Vegas-like tourist trap complete with casinos, arcades, wax museums, a ferris wheel, haunted houses, buffets and bars galore. A short drive from the falls is Marineland , an aquarium park famous for its whales, dolphins, and seals. The greater Niagara Falls area is home to Ontario’s wine country , with ample vineyards for tours and tastings.

During the summer months, Ontarians love to run away to their so-called “ cottage country ,” the term for the south-central, wooded region of the province where many families rent a second home. The most popular area is the city of  Muskoka , located on the coast of Lake Huron’s   Georgian Bay , though the  Haliburton Highlands , near the Quebec border, and the Kawarthas  region, on the eastern coast of Lake Ontario are hot spots as well.

Parliament Hill

Parliament's Peace Tower is illuminated as part of festivities to commemorate Canada's 150th birthday. On important dates, colorful lights and projections transform Parliament into the centerpiece of a dramatic light show.

Ottawa Tourism

The capital city of Canada.

Ottawa sits on the bank of the Ottawa River , which functions as a border between Ontario and  Quebec . Many of the city’s most famous sights are clustered around the coast, and the city on the Quebec side, Gatineau (previously known as, and still often called, Hull ) — which is easily reached by multiple bridges — is considered part of “Greater Ottawa.” The Rideau Canal and the larger Rideau River both flow from the Ottawa River and cut through the eastern part of the city. In the winter, the frozen Canal is popular for skating.

Ottawa’s skyline is dominated by Parliament Hill , and the grand, gothic Parliament Buildings that serve as the seat of Canada’s  government . The enormous Peace Tower clock rises from the middle of a building known as Centre Block , which contains the chambers of the House of Commons and Senate , as well as the offices of many senior politicians. Unfortunately, the entire Centre Block is currently under renovation and cannot be visited by the public until at least 2029. Temporary chambers of parliament have been set up in adjacent office buildings to the east and west of Centre Block, known as East Block and West Block , respectively. These buildings, which also feature historic recreations of offices of famous figures from Canadian history can be visited by the public.

• Visit Canada’s Parliament

Downtown Ottawa contains numerous monuments of significance, chiefly the massive National War Memorial arch, which commemorates Canada’s war dead, and the new National Holocaust Monument , which honours those murdered by Germany’s Nazi regime (1933-1945). Smaller monuments include the Canadian Tribute to Human Rights and the National Peacekeeping Monument , which honour Canada’s commitment to peace.

• Official website, Tourism Ottawa
• Top 10 Things to Do in Ottawa, TripAdvisor

A Chief Wakas Totem Pole in the Canadian Museum of History .

Most of Canada’s greatest museums are located in Ottawa, and for anyone interested in learning more about Canadian art, history, science, and culture the city offers an endless bounty. Leading attractions include the Canadian Museum of History , the Canadian War Museum , the National Gallery of Canada , the Canadian Museum of Nature , the Canada Science and Technology Museum , the Canadian Aviation and Space Museum , and the Canada Agriculture and Food Museum . All are large, well-funded and contain some of Canada’s top artifacts and exhibits.

Many major institutions of the Canadian federal government also offer tours and museum-like exhibitions, including the Supreme Court of Canada , the Bank of Canada , the Royal Canadian Mint , and Rideau Hall (the official residence of Canada’s Governor General ).

Inside the halls of the Byward Covered Market .

Ottawa’s most iconic shopping area is the  ByWard Market , a collection of open-air vendors selling fresh produce, meats, baked goods and more, surrounded by various shops, cafes, and restaurants.

Despite the name, the Sparks Street Mall is actually another outdoor shopping district, known for its independent shops and lively street performers. The city’s biggest actual mall is the Rideau Centre , with over 160 stores.

As the nation’s capital, Ottawa is home to the country’s grandest celebrations of Canada’s patriotic holidays . Canada Day festivities consume the city every July 1, with outdoor concerts, food carts, and fireworks. Remembrance Day on November 11 is a massive event of a decidedly different tone, as enormous crowds gather around the National War Memorial to watch the prime minister, governor general, and other important people lay wreaths and give speeches in honour of Canada’s war dead.

Winterlude , which is held the first three weekends of February, brings some cheer to Ottawa’s notoriously grim winters. The area around the frozen Rideau Canal is transformed into a sprawl of ice sports, ice sculptures, and children’s playgrounds.

In May, the city is enveloped by the Canadian Tulip Festival , another family-friendly celebration featuring live music, cultural pavilions, and fireworks, held amid vast gardens of tulips that spring up all over the city.

Ottawa has an NHL team called the Ottawa Senators who play at the Canadian Tire Centre . The city’s CFL team, is the Ottawa Redblacks (previously called the Rough Riders ) who play at TD Place .

An ice sculpture at Winterlude 2014. Vlad G./Shutterstock

Ontario tourism resources.

• Official Ontario Tourism Website
• Ontario, Lonely Planet
• Ontario Travel Guide, Fodor's

• 13 Best Small Towns to Visit in Ontario

Ontario, Canada is a massive segment of land, around 415,600 mi² in size. To put that in perspective, that is bigger than countries like Turkey, Ukraine, or Egypt.

Canada’s most populated province is known for its multitude of landscapes like the Great Lakes, the Canadian Shield, and world-class cities like Toronto.

With so many people and places, it is hard to decide where to go, so read on to explore 13 of the best towns to visit in Ontario.

Niagara-on-the-Lake

When people hear Niagara, you immediately think of the falls, but this town is also worth a visit. The town of Niagara-on-the-Lake has an old-world feel, complete with the occasional horse-drawn carriage.

What's more, Niagara Falls is just a short 20-minute drive away. So, it is the best of both words. The town has a Heritage District, with beautiful 19 th -century buildings and well-kept streets, reflecting the town’s long history in the region.

Niagara-on-the-Lake also has a popular wine industry. So if you love wine, many wineries in town have great views of the countryside, making for a memorable experience.

Right in the heart of town is the Shaw Festival, a hub of world-class theater. This festival has over ten productions in three theatres, drawing in over 250,000 people each year.

Huntsville rests amidst the vast expanse of the Canadian Shield and is situated directly between two lakes. The town has a vibrant arts scene, with local artists being shown at both the Algonquin Art Centre and the Eclipse Art Gallery.

The town has some fun outdoor options, like kayaking and canoeing on the Muskoka River, with calm waters providing an ideal setting for water adventures. Arrowhead Provincial Park, near Huntsville, offers hiking trails at various levels, from leisurely strolls to challenging routes.

Algonquin Park, one of the most famous parks in Canada, is only a 50-minute drive away. The park was the country's first provincial park and its beauty has been a source of inspiration for painters and artists for over a hundred years.

Often given the tagline ‘Ontario's most beautiful village,’ Elora has a combination of outdoor wonders and a fascinating townscape. Elora's downtown holds 19th-century limestone storefronts, with a diverse array of shops, giving the town a distinctive and historic character.

The town is home to the Elora Mill, an iconic 19th-century building that has been transformed into a luxury hotel and restaurant, a local architectural marvel.

The Elora Gorge, carved by the Grand River, has towering limestone cliffs and cascading waterfalls, offering breathtaking views for both hikers and nature enthusiasts.

An unusual feature, The Tooth of Time, sits at the Elora Gorge Waterfall. This remarkable geological formation, resembling a colossal tooth, rises from the earth amidst the powerful flow of the water.

Come to Stratford for the charming architecture; stay for the arts and world-class theatre. Its downtown is characterized by timeless Victorian architecture, with red-brick structures dominating the streets.

The area is graced by the presence of the Stratford City Hall, a designated national historic site of Canada and one of the most striking buildings in the vicinity. With its late-Victorian architecture, distinctive brickwork, and iconic clock tower, it is a prominent civic landmark.

Visitors can learn some local history by taking a trip to the past at the Stratford Perth Museum. The museum has more than 20,000 artifacts, bringing the long legacy of Perth County back to life.

The town's crown jewel is the Stratford Festival, a globally acclaimed theater company that runs a diverse selection of classical and contemporary plays from April to October.

Right in Grand Bend’s backyard, miles of white sandy beaches meet the deep blue waters of Lake Huron's shoreline. This popular resort town has a vibrant summer atmosphere as people pour in to kick back and relax on the golden beaches.

If you are here to enjoy the summer beaches, make sure to stick around to see the phenomenal sunsets striking the shore. The Grand Bend Pier extends far into Lake Huron , a quiet place for a leisurely stroll or some fishing. It also provides a dramatic view when winds and heavy waves come in.

Less than a 10-minute drive south lies Pinery Provincial Park. The park has oak savannah, beach dunes, and opportunities for hiking or birdwatching.

Formerly known as Little Falls, Fergus cherishes its longstanding ties to its Scottish heritage. The historic downtown area possesses a unique appeal, with Victorian-era architecture and natural limestone buildings with their ornate facades and detailed trimmings.

The Grand River runs right through the middle of town, providing a peaceful place to go for a walk, or simply sit down with friends or family for a picnic.

For some local history, the Wellington County Museum offers a journey through Fergus' heritage by depicting pioneer life and showcasing artifacts and tools.

Every August, the famous Fergus Scottish Festival celebrates the town's heritage with lively festivities, including Highland games, the largest games of its kind in North America. For even more Scottish fun, there is also Fergus Tartan Day in April.

Considered the gateway to the Thousand Islands , an archipelago of over 1,800 islands, Gananoque is one of Ontario's most memorable waterfront locations.

The town has brilliant waterfront views of the St. Lawerence River, dotted with boats and ships weaving between the Thousand Islands. The Joel Stone Heritage Park is a good place to relax with the family for a picnic or play around in the popular splash pad.

Put on your skipper hat and get ready to explore the waters. Gananoque offers boat tours traveling through the archipelago, allowing visitors to explore the beauty and get views inaccessible from the mainland.

Back in town, the Arthur Child Heritage Museum is an engaging museum explaining the history of the region, featuring exhibits on maritime heritage, Indigenous culture, and more.

Port Hope has put down deep roots in the region, established back in the late 18th century. This is reflected in the variety of architecture built over the years, with a range of architectural styles, including examples of Victorian, Gothic Revival, Georgian, and Colonial Revival designs.

Not far from town, an interesting revitalizing project is underway. Visitors can take a scenic drive to Wesleyville, a nearly abandoned village.

Its few remaining buildings and ancient graveyard provide a poignant glimpse into its historical landscape. Efforts are underway to bring life back to the village.

The town also has a bountiful outdoor area to play in, with the Ganaraska Forest just north of the town. Covering around 11,000 acres, the park has hiking, horseback riding, and many other outdoor activities.

You will know there's something different about Midland when you see its buildings. Midland has over 30 meticulously crafted mural paintings, featuring the largest historic outdoor wall mural in North America.

Nearby, Sainte-Marie among the Hurons is a living history site that recreates a 17th-century French Jesuit mission, offering insights into early interactions between European settlers and Indigenous peoples. Sainte-Marie was one of the earliest European settlements in Ontario.

Another important historic site is the Huronia Museum and Huron Ouendat Village, which has a replica of a ‘pre-contact’ Huron/Ouendat village on its location.

The town also serves as the entrance to the UNESCO-designated Georgian Bay Biosphere Reserve , which encompasses more than 30,000 islands in the vicinity. 

Right along the shores of Lake Huron, Bayfield is the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. Two things you will notice about Bayfield are the unbelievable beaches and the historic downtown. The town's Main Street is lined with well-preserved 19th-century buildings, with mature trees providing shade for those hot days under the sun.

A local historical treat is the Little Inn, which has been welcoming visitors since mid 1800’s. Originally a stagecoach stop, the inn has been preserved and restored, combining the allure of the past with the amenities of the present.

Going to the beach is a must, and Bayfield has plenty of options. Just around Bayfield, there are three distinct beaches: Pier Beach, Howard Beach, and Houston Heights Beach.

If you are into the craft brewery scene, you probably have heard about Creemore. Creemore Springs Brewery has some exceptional small-batch beers and is well-known for its quality and distinct flavors. People come from far and wide to experience a brewery tour or a tasting.

The town’s downtown has a peaceful and quiet atmosphere, with brick buildings lining the streets. Creemore also holds the unusual distinction of having ‘North America’s Smallest Jail.’ The building was constructed in 1892, costing $425.20, with only 3 cells inside. 

For a great view of the area, Nottawasaga Lookout is less than 20 minutes away. The viewpoint provides stunning views of the Niagara Escarpment and invites visitors to take on a challenging hike through the area.

The village is deeply connected to its Mennonite roots, and even today you can see farmers riding the roads with a horse and buggy. Located in the Township of Woolwich, this village holds a wide variety of shops and restaurants but also many interesting roadside options, with fresh produce fruits, maple syrup, and much more.

For a real flavor of local products, the St. Jacobs Farmers' Market has a huge collection of handmade crafts and artisanal foods. The market is one of the biggest in all of Canada and has something for everyone with over 300 vendors.

During the holidays, the village springs alive with lights during the night. A magical holiday experience awaits with thousands of shimmering lights and carollers wandering through the village. You might even see Santa Claus and some of his elves.

For many years, this town on Lake Huron has earned the title of the 'Prettiest Town in Canada.' With its grand views of the lake and architecturally distinctive features, it is easy to see why.

The town has a distinct downtown layout, featuring an octagonal core called The Square, including the historic courthouse located in the center. Streets extend outward from the central Courthouse Park, forming the framework of the surrounding area. For a small town, Goderich has a large collection of museums and interesting historical sites.

The Huron County Museum teaches history through thousands of artifacts, while the Huron Historic Gaol, a functioning jail from 1841 to 1972, is now a museum explaining penal history. An iconic waterfront landmark, the Goderich Lighthouse, built in 1847, guides ships with its distinctive red and white tower.

In Conclusion

With over 14 million people living in Ontario , there is an untold variety of stories and locations for visitors to take in. From the world-famous Niagra Falls to the cold reaches of the Canadian Shield, this Canadian province calls you to visit with its diverse natural beauty and cultural richness. If you are looking to explore the vastness of nature or the quiet serenity of historic towns, Ontario offers a captivating blend of options.

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16 Towns and Cities in Ontario

Written By Travel Canada

16 Towns and Cities in Ontario – From Niagara Falls in the south west, to Cobourg in the east, Ontario has the loveliest towns to visit.

1 – Grand Bend, Ontario

Grand Bend has earned a reputation as one of Canada’s best beach towns. It is a community located on the shores of Lake Huron in Southwestern Ontario.

2 – Cambridge, Ontario

Cambridge is a city in the Regional Municipality of Waterloo, Ontario, Canada, located at the confluence of the Grand and Speed rivers. It is a modern, thriving community that has small town charm.

3 – Turkey Point, Ontario

Turkey Point is a beach town with over 3 km of sandy beach. It got its name because of the large amount of waterfowl that frequented the area. Turkey Point is also home to a large, well-managed provincial park.

4 – Long Point, Ontario

Long Point is located along the north shore of Lake Erie and extends 40 km into Lake Erie. It is a beach town with some of the finest sandy beaches. It is also one of the top bird-watching destinations in North America.

5 – Port Rowan, Ontario

Port Rowan is very close to Long Point. It was named in 1825 after Colonel William Rowan, a Military & Civil Secretary to Sir John Colborne. It used to be a thriving fishing town, but today it’s a charming tourist town.

6 – Lincoln, Ontario

Lincoln is a little town on Lake Ontario in the Niagara Region. It became a town in 1970, and today it has many orchards and wineries.

7 – Port Colborne, Ontario

Port Colborne is on the north shore of Lake Erie. It was originally known as Gravelly Bay, but later named after Sir John Colborne. There is a lovely beach area, as well the Welland Canal Lock #8 is in Port Colborne.

8 – Crystal Beach, Ontario

Crystal Beach is a lakefront community, and a popular summer destination. It was named for it’s crystal clear water and has an upgraded beach area on the shores of Lake Erie.

9 – Fort Erie, Ontario

Fort Erie is a town on the Niagara River, directly across from Buffalo, NY. It is linked to Buffalo by the International Railway bridge, as well as the Peace Bridge. There is much history here as it was the locat site of the War of 1812.

10 – Niagara Falls, Ontario

Home of the famous waterfalls, and linked to the U.S. by the Rainbow International Bridge.

11 – Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ontario

This town is on the shores of Lake Ontario, at the mouth of Niagara River. It’s known for its wineries and the summer Shaw Festival.

12 – Goodwood, Ontario

Goodwood is a very quiet little town, north of Toronto. It became the backdrop for the successful sitcom ‘Schitt’s Creek’, and was a popular tourist attraction while the show was filming.

13 – Port Perry, Ontario

Port Perry is a town northeast of Toronto that’s quiet off-season, and very popular during the summers.

14 – Peterborough, Ontario

Peterborough is east of Toronto located on the Otonabee River. It is home to the highest hydraulic lock in the world. It was named after Peter Robinson who oversaw the first major immigration to the area.

15 – Port Hope, Ontario

Port Hope is a picturesque community located along the shore of Lake Ontario. It’s nationally acclaimed for having the best-preserved main street in Ontario, and beautifully restored 19th century homes.

16 – Cobourg, Ontario

Cobourg is a lakeside community on the north shore of Lake Ontario. It has been recognized as One of Canada’s Best Places to Live.

There are many more lovely town in Ontario.  Another list with more picturesque towns is coming soon!

For more Ontario destinations, click here .

• About Northern Ontario
• Canadian Canoe Culture
• Explore Indigenous Culture
• Group of Seven
• How to Fish
• Plan A Road Trip
• Plan Your Fall Trip
• Plan Your Summer Trip
• Plan Your Winter Trip
• Where to Eat
• Algoma Country
• Northeastern Ontario
• Sault Ste. Marie
• Sunset Country
• Superior Country
• Thunder Bay
• Motorcycle Touring
• Outdoor Adventures
• Snowmobiling

11 of Ontario’s Most Jaw-Dropping Natural Landscapes

There’s no shortage of tourist sites in Ontario. People from around the world flock to climb Toronto’s CN Tower , gaze at the misty torrents of Niagara Falls , and experience the museums and urban greenspace of Ottawa’s National Capital Region . Central Ontario attractions like Algonquin Provincial Park and the Bruce Peninsula’s Fathom Five National Marine Park are also renowned for their natural splendor.

There’s no problem with these attractions—but to focus on them alone is to miss out on the northern half of Ontario, which spans an immense area including the pine and granite of the Canadian Shield, the Great Lakes’ rugged shorelines and the endless boreal forest of Northwestern Ontario. Not to mention the big wild of the Far North and the James and Hudson Bay coasts.

Open the map and look beyond the boundaries of Southern, Eastern and Central Ontario. Use these 11 beautiful Ontario outdoor destinations as your starting point; we promise you’ll find even more.

1. Agawa Canyon

This spectacular landform north of Sault Ste. Marie was described as the “original site of the Garden of Eden” and “a little Yosemite” by Group of Seven artist J.E.H. MacDonald. In fact, scenes from the Agawa Canyon and the surrounding wilderness comprise a large part of the canvases that defined Canadian landscape painting a century ago.

The Agawa Canyon remains a remote treasure, accessible only on a one-day train adventure starting in Sault Ste. Marie. Visitors have time to hike easy trails for breathtaking views of the deep, pine-cloaked canyon carved by the Agawa River and cascading waterfalls.

Things to Do in the Area:

• The brand-new Agawa Tour Train Station in Sault Ste. Marie’s historic Canal District includes a brew pub restaurant and more. Check out the Mill Steakhouse and Wine Bar next door for fine dining.
• The Sault Ste. Marie Canal National Historic Site of Canada is another great attraction that blends the rich history of what was once the world’s longest lock with scenic trails and abundant wildlife. The footpaths and boardwalks provide easy walking and versatile fat bikes are available to rent on site.
• Check out the Art Gallery of Algoma’s collection of Group of Seven paintings to view artists’ renderings of the Agawa Canyon scenery.
• Visit the Canadian Bushplane Heritage Centre in downtown Sault Ste. Marie for interactive displays capturing the history of aviation in the Canadian wilderness. The Northern Superior Tap Room , located next door, offers local beers and pub fare with a large outdoor patio adjacent to the St. Marys River.

2. Lady Evelyn River

The Lady Evelyn River carves through the heart of the Temagami wilderness in Northeastern Ontario. This wild waterway is more appropriately described by its Indigenous name: Menjamagosipi , the “Trout Streams.” The river flows in two branches with countless cascades and tricky portages, making it a favourite for experienced canoeists. The payoff for all the hard work are secluded campsites and a sense of accomplishment for having tackled one of Ontario’s best canoe routes.

However, you don’t have to be an experienced paddler to visit the only cabin accommodations in Lady Evelyn-Smoothwater Provincial Park . The fly-in Cabin Falls Ecolodge is owned and operated by legendary canoe guide, author and artist Hap Wilson, and offers a stunning place to stay overlooking a tumbling waterfall. The lodge is a popular destination for photographers, nature enthusiasts and those looking to learn wilderness canoe tripping skills from experts.

• Most visitors to the Lady Evelyn River arrive by way of the Northeastern Ontario town of Temagami, located on Highway 11. Temagami Outfitting Company provides rental canoes and gear, as well as all-inclusive guiding, for backcountry trips.
• Temagami-based Lakeland Airways provides spectacular aerial tours of the wilderness aboard historic deHavilland floatplanes, as well as shuttles for intrepid canoeists, and servicing a range of fly-in outpost fishing camps on remote lakes.
• Be sure to hike to the Temagami fire tower , accessible via Highway 11, for a scenic overview of old-growth pine forests and gem-like lakes.

3. Sleeping Giant

This iconic landform in Northwestern Ontario is one of Canada’s most recognizable vistas, resembling a prostrate giant rising from the silver waters of Lake Superior and dominating the viewscape from downtown Thunder Bay . Hikers can access over 100 km of trails at Sleeping Giant Provincial Park via the Trans-Canada Highway and Highway 587, about an hour’s drive from city limits. Plan on a full day to complete the challenging 21.8-km hike to the summit—and be prepared for a jaw-dropping view at the top of Ontario’s tallest vertical cliffs.

It’s easy to spend a weekend or more at Sleeping Giant’s drive-in Marie Louise Lake campground exploring all the Sibley Peninsula has to offer. The campground features family-friendly beaches and paddling options; mountain biking is allowed on several park trails; and the park is renowned among birders, with dozens of songbirds and raptors calling it home. Backcountry campers will find 27 hike- and paddle-in sites, most of which are along the Lake Superior coastline. The backcountry campsites at Tee Harbour can be reached by bicycle as well.

• Looking for cabin-based accommodations? Book a lakeside retreat at Beyond the Giant , a waterfront resort offering easy access to Sleeping Giant hiking and biking trails.
• Over a century ago, the mine at Silver Islet was one of the world’s most lucrative. Today, it’s a quaint cottage community with a 150-year-old general store and tea room on the Lake Superior shore.
• Experience the Sleeping Giant from the water with Sail Superior , which offers sailing and Zodiac powerboat trips departing downtown Thunder Bay.

4. French River

The French River flows between Lake Nipissing and Georgian Bay and was an Indigenous canoe route long before it was a key link in the Canadian fur trade. Today, the polished granite shores of the French River echo with voices of the past; it remains one of Ontario’s best routes for novice and intermediate paddlers and backcountry campers. Most canoeists access the French River at Dry Pine Bay, east of Highway 69. Sea kayakers, meanwhile, usually launch west of the highway at Hartley Bay to reach the myriad pine-topped islands that mark the river’s mouth at Georgian Bay.

Black Feather Wilderness Adventures offers a wide array of guided French River trips, including family-friendly, four-day canoe adventures and sea kayak trips on Georgian Bay. The Parry Sound-based outfitter celebrated its 50th anniversary in 2022 and is noted for professional guides and great meals.

• Would you prefer a more refined experience? The Lodge at Pine Cove provides some of Ontario’s best wilderness accommodations, with options for canoeing and paddleboarding with the benefit of gourmet meals
• Just driving through? Be sure to stop at the French River Visitor Centre and stretch your legs on the easy 4-km hiking trail to Recollet Falls.

5. Manitoulin Island

Manitoulin Island is the largest island on the Great Lakes with an abundance of outdoor attractions for visitors. For starters, getting to the island is an adventure in itself, with a half-day ride on the MS Chi-Cheemaun ferry from Tobermory. You can also drive to Manitoulin via the Trans-Canada Highway, through the town of Espanola on Highway 6 and over the swing bridge at the town of Little Current.

Manitoulin is an extension of Southern Ontario’s Bruce Peninsula. You’ll find the same great scenery—without the crowds—on the Cup and Saucer trail , a half-day hike located near Little Current. Many adventure-seekers come to Manitoulin for road cycling, with countless options for scenic tours on quiet roads. Sign up for the all-inclusive Alvar Cycle Tour for a taste of some of Ontario’s finest cycling.

• Stay at Manitoulin Eco Park , which provides tent and trailer campsites as well as bunkie and tipi rentals. The park is recognized as a Dark Sky Preserve and offers some of the finest star-watching in the province.
• Visit Wikwemikong First Nation for an authentic Indigenous experience.
• Manitoulin Brewing Company has a patio and food truck on the water in Little Current.

6. Killarney

Killarney was a sleepy Georgian Bay fishing village long before landscape painters with the Group of Seven made its austere quartzite surroundings famous and Killarney Provincial Park earned the moniker “Ontario’s crown jewel.” Today, the village is one of the most scenic tourist destinations in the province, located adjacent to the stunning George Lake Campground , and providing a wide range of accommodation and dining options for paddlers, hikers and campers seeking wilderness adventures in Northeastern Ontario.

Killarney draws visitors for its rugged Georgian Bay coastline (a dreamscape for intermediate to advanced sea kayakers) and interior network of lakes and canoe portages. Killarney Kanoes and Killarney Outfitters both offer canoe and kayak rentals and insider advice on the best paddling routes.

Hikers can get an intimate glimpse of Georgian Bay on the easy, 2-km-long Chikanishing Trail and panoptic views of Killarney’s inland hills from The Crack , a towering lookout on a rugged 6-km trail. Backpackers, meanwhile, rank the 78-km La Cloche Silhouette Trail as Ontario’s finest.

• Killarney Mountain Lodge is a favourite place to spend a luxurious night, complete with fine dining on Killarney’s waterfront. For an off-grid experience, make a booking at Avalon Eco Resort , with waterfront cabins and campsites located just up Highway 637 at Tyson Lake.
• Make sure you grab a meal of local fish and chips at Herbert Fisheries .
• The scenery around Nellie and Grace lakes on the west side of Killarney Provincial Park is just as pretty. But rocky hills and aquamarine lakes come with seriously rugged portages—accessible via Highway 6 and the Widgawa Lodge . Be sure to book your campsites early from this (and other) Killarney access point.

7. Lake of the Woods

Lake of the Woods offers world-class canoe tripping, kayaking and camping in the heart of the continent. Hidden bays and countless islands make Lake of the Woods legendary. The city of Kenora in Northwestern Ontario is your gateway to countless lakes, with easy access on the Trans-Canada Highway between Thunder Bay and Winnipeg. The region is also within a day’s drive of the U.S. Midwest.

Life here revolves around the waterfront . Rent a canoe or kayak from Green Adventures and launch right from Kenora’s bustling downtown. Experienced paddlers can plan a longer trip on the Path of the Paddle , a water trail segment of the Trans-Canada Trail, which traces the shore of Lake of the Woods and passes through nearby Rushing River Provincial Park .

• Houseboating is a classic Kenora outdoor vacation, and there’s plenty of space to bring a kayak or SUP along to explore the shore. Book your trip with Houseboat Adventures or Lake Life Houseboats .
• You’ll find a full-service campground for tents and RVs at Blue Lake Provincial Park , with great fishing, paddling and beaches.
• Lake of the Woods has plenty of lodges, too, if you’re looking for a more upscale stay. This Accommodations Finder tool is a great place to start your search.
• Prefer land-based activities? Check out the Rat Portage Urban Trail , an 8-km route in Kenora that links greenspace, waterfront, and the restaurants and shops of downtown. Or plan a stay at Minaki Yurt Adventures , featuring unique accommodations with easy access to hiking trails.

8. Quetico Provincial Park

This vast wilderness park west of Thunder Bay is Northwestern Ontario’s answer to Algonquin Provincial Park. Quetico Provincial Park is a canoe tripper’s dream, with an astounding 2,000 lakes and over 500 portages. Quetico has something for everyone, including long-distance routes spanning a week or more and shorter trips suitable for beginners and families. The park has great fishing for trout, bass and pike, and provides the chance to visit Indigenous pictograph sites and to see iconic wildlife like moose.

Atikokan , Ontario, AKA the canoe capital of the world, is the park’s main entry point. Voyageur Wilderness is a local outfitter with services ranging from cabin and lodge accommodations on the wilderness edge to guiding and complete canoe trip outfitting. DIY trippers are well-advised to book their backcountry campsites up to five months in advance.

• Do you prefer to fish and hunt? There are dozens of great outfitters in Northwestern Ontario, including Camp Quetico (drive-in) and Kashabowie Outposts (fly-in). Canoe Canada Outfitters appeals to hunters, anglers and paddlers.
• U.S. paddlers can enter Quetico via Minnesota’s Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness using a remote area border crossing permit, available from the Canadian Border Services Agency .
• For a frontcountry adventure, check out Quetico’s Dawson Trail Campground , with drive-in tent and trailer sites and access to swimming beaches, great paddling and easy hiking trails.

9. James Bay Frontier

You don’t have to be a hard-core adventurer to visit some of the most remote communities in Ontario. The James Bay towns of Moosonee and Moose Factory are accessible via the Polar Bear Express , a passenger rail service departing Cochrane, located on Highway 11 in Northeastern Ontario. The day-long train journey traverses boreal forest wilderness, tracing the edge of the rugged Canadian Shield and entering the endless muskeg of the James Bay Lowlands.

Moosonee is located at the end of the line at the mouth of the Moose River, mere kilometres from the tidal water of James Bay. Moose Factory , meanwhile, is located on an island just offshore and accessible by water taxi. This Indigenous community is one of the oldest in Ontario; it was once the site of a Hudson Bay Company post and today offers unique accommodations at the Cree Village Ecolodge . Book a stay and get a taste of the James Bay Frontier, with authentic Indigenous food and cultural experiences (including wildlife tours and more).

• Experienced canoeists can paddle to Moosonee and Moose Factory on the Missinaibi River , one of Ontario’s finest wilderness canoe trips. Go guided with MHO Adventures .
• Cochrane is your starting point for a bucket-list adventure. Spend an afternoon in Cochrane at the Polar Bear Habitat , where you’ll encounter three resident polar bears and learn more about their biology.
• Book a room at the historic Ontario Northland Station Inn Hotel in Cochrane before and after your train trip.
• Nearby Kesagami Wilderness Lodge is a fly-in outfitter offering some of the best fishing in the province.

10. Woodland Caribou Provincial Park

The dense spruce and birch of the boreal forest blends into the expansive skylines of the Canadian Prairies in Woodland Caribou Provincial Park , located in the northwest corner of Ontario. Woodland Caribou appeals to canoe trippers and diehard anglers, with hundreds of kilometres of established backcountry routes, picture-perfect campsites, and world-class fishing for walleye, northern pike and lake trout.

Goldseekers Canoe Outfitting and Wilderness Expeditions is located on Woodland Caribou’s doorstep in Red Lake, Ontario. The outfitter offers trip planning services, rentals, and guided trips for paddlers and anglers alike. Chukuni Outdoor Supply sells outdoor gear, and offers guided canoe and fishing trips. Hard-core anglers and hunters can check out Viking Outposts for remote walleye fishing and moose hunting, while Sunset Lodge offers drive-in accommodations on Red Lake.

• Nature’s Inn offers suites in Red Lake and several other Northwestern Ontario communities. Meanwhile, Howey Bay Resort provides waterfront cabins and a lodge experience with facilities in Red Lake and six fly-in outpost camps.
• Visit Wabakimi Provincial Park for a similar wilderness canoe experience in the boreal forest, north of Thunder Bay. Wabakimi Outfitters is a great resource for trip planning, rentals and vehicle shuttles.

11. Pukaskwa National Park

Anyone who has driven the Trans-Canada Highway between Sault Ste. Marie and Thunder Bay knows that Lake Superior is best described as an inland sea. The best spot to experience this rugged, wild shoreline is in Pukaskwa National Park , located between the towns of Wawa and Marathon in Northern Ontario. Pukaskwa has something for everyone, from a peaceful drive-in campground with access to gorgeous sand beaches and easy hiking trails, to some of the wildest backcountry camping in the province.

The Lake Superior coastline is fantastic for hiking. Book a water taxi with North Shore Adventures to access the southern trailhead of the 60-km Coastal Backpacking Trail . The trail traces an isolated shoreline of beaches and stalwart headlands north to the Pukaskwa visitor centre, and ranks among the toughest—and most scenic—treks in Ontario. Intermediate backpackers can get a glimpse of the same type of scenery on the two- to three-day Mdaabii Miikna (“go to the shore”) trail. Meanwhile, fit day-hikers can follow a 7.5-km linear route through the boreal forest to an impressive suspension bridge atop a roaring gorge on the White River.

• Of course, Lake Superior also offers outstanding wilderness paddling for experienced sea kayakers. The Coastal Paddling Route from Pukaskwa National Park headquarters at Hattie Cove, near Marathon, to Michipicoten River, near Wawa, takes 10 to 14 days for a typical group. Novice and intermediate paddlers can go guided with Naturally Superior Adventures , benefitting from great meals, expert leadership and local knowledge.
• A Pukaskwa expedition with the Ontario Sea Kayak Centre is a good option for experienced paddlers looking to join a group (and earn Paddle Canada sea kayak certification).
• Wawa’s Rock Island Lodge provides the area’s only accommodations on Lake Superior. This stunning four-bedroom bed and breakfast located at the mouth of the Michipicoten River is beloved by photographers and paddlers; you can sign up for a photo workshop or register for kayak, SUP or canoe day trips and instruction .

Explore Northern Ontario’s Best Tourist Attractions

Beaches, canyons, waterfalls, endless forests and oceanic shores: it would be easy to spend a lifetime exploring Northern Ontario. Use this list as your start—and prepare to discover more hidden gems when you experience the region for yourself.

Interested in visiting other Group of Seven painting sites?

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Conor Mihell is an award-winning environmental and adventure travel writer based in Sault Ste. Marie. Read his work in the Globe and Mail, Explore, Cottage Life, Canoe & Kayak, ON Nature, and other magazines and newspapers. He's been a sea kayak guide on Lake Superior for close to 20 years, and has paddled from Sault Ste. Marie to Thunder Bay. 

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These small towns in Ontario have some of the most unusual roadside attractions

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Road side attractions in Ontario might be locally famous but the majority of us might not be familiar with ones beyond the Big Apple in Colborne . Truth is, Ontario is full of other fascinating and larger-than-life marvels waiting to be gawked at. 

Here are some of my favourite roadside attractions scattered throughout Ontario that make perfect pitstops on road trips .

Giant Transformer Robot - Port Hope, ON

Standing tall and commanding attention outside Primitive Designs in Port Hope , Ontario, is this massive Transformer Robot. Towering at an impressive 26 feet, this metallic marvel invites visitors to delve into a world of imagination and wonder.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Primitive Designs (@primitivedesignscanada)

Alongside this larger-than-life Transformer, the parking lot has a ton of of quirky upcycled creature sculptures, each with its own unique charm. 

Algomy Red - Thessalon, ON

Along the Trans-Canada Highway in Ontario's scenic Algoma County , you'll find the towering Algomy Red - hailed as the world's largest Muskoka Chair.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Soma & Avinash (@wanderers_avisom)

Standing proudly outside Pinecrest Tent and Trailer Campground, this colossal chair beckons weary travelers to pause, stretch their legs, and indulge in a moment of whimsy and fun photo-ops. 

Husky the Muskie - Kenora, ON

Perched in McLeod Park at the edge of Lake of the Woods is Husky the Muskie, a larger-than-life 40-foot replica of a Muskie fish. 

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Anne-Marie Sinclair (@annemarie1976)

Located along the Trans-Canada Highway, this iconic sculpture captivates with its beauty and history. Constructed in 1967 and restored in 1995, Husky the Muskie continues to attract visitors, serving as a beloved roadside attraction in Kenora, Ontario.

Jumbo the Elephant - St. Thomas, ON

Two hours from Toronto in St. Thomas is a life-size replica of Jumbo the Elephant, built in honour of his tragic yet fascinating life. Imported from the Sudan to France in 1863, then to the London Zoo, Jumbo later became a beloved circus attraction, touring North America. 

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Cal Jolliffe (@calj21)

Unfortunately, his life ended in St. Thomas in 1885 when he was struck by a train. Now, visitors can pay tribute to Jumbo at a roadside park south of London, Ontario, just off the 401.

Bruce the Bull - Chelsey, ON

Located in Chesley, Ontario, Big Bruce actually won Ontario's 2022 Best Roadside Attraction award . Standing 15 feet tall and over 20 feet long, Bruce is a local celebrity, representing the Bruce County beef industry.

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Brought to town by farmer and politician Harvey Davis in the 1970s, Bruce has been a beloved fixture in Chesley since 1980. Visitors often stop to take photos with this iconic symbol of beefy Bruce County pride.

Big Tomato - Leamington, ON

Standing tall and plump since 1961, the Big Tomato has been an iconic fixture in Leamington, Ontario . Initially serving as a tourist information booth, this giant tomato was a collaborative effort between Leamington and the Heinz Company of Canada. 

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Adventures McTravel (@where_in_the_world_88)

After decades of being a landmark , it closed its doors in 2019. However, in anticipation of Leamington's 150th anniversary, this cherished symbol of the town's history and heritage is undergoing a full restoration.

Winnie the Pooh - White River, ON

In the quaint town of White River, Ontario, a long ten hours north of Toronto, lies an unexpected roadside gem: Winnie the Pooh. This beloved honey-loving bear has a remarkable connection to this Canadian rail town .

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Natalie (@nataliethe4th)

While Winnie's character originated from a real-life female black bear at the London Zoo, she was originally purchased  by Harry Colebourn, a Canadian soldier and veterinarian, from a trapper in White River $20.

He named her "Winnipeg Bear" after his regiment, the Royal Winnipeg Regiment, later affectionately shortened to "Winnie".

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Travel Back In Time To The 12 Oldest Towns In Canada

• Canada's most historic towns offer a unique and old-world charm with a diverse history and culture.
• These historic Canadian towns are among the country's oldest and guarantee unforgettable experiences for history buffs and provide a break from the bustling cities.
• From Trois-Rivières in Quebec to Lunenburg in Nova Scotia, these old towns in Canada boast rich histories, stunning architecture, and beautiful landscapes.

Canada is home to some of the world's most beautiful towns that are UNESCO World Heritage Sites in some cases. Vacationers planning for an expedition to the world's second-largest country can easily be swept away in awe by its magnificent populous cities, and many people limit their visits to the most famous places, like Toronto.

Well, it is agreeable that the gorgeous, paved big towns with towering buildings nearly touching the clouds are just irresistible. However, Canada’s unique and old-world charm lies in the oldest Canadian towns that host a diverse history and culture ranging from British to French to Aboriginal. These oldest, most historic towns in Canada guarantee unforgettable experiences for history buffs.

UPDATE: 2023/11/29 15:33 EST BY NOAH STAATS

Canada's Oldest Towns Are Home To Endless History

This article has been refreshed with two additional historic towns in Canada that are amongst the country's oldest, including one that became a part of the greater city of Toronto. Canada has a rich, expansive history dating back hundreds of years, with many towns still feeling like old-world places to live and travel. Have fun, and be safe!

Related: Geography Lesson: What To Know About Canada's 10 Unique Provinces

York, Ontario

Now a part of the greater toronto area, york is a historic hub long-remembered.

One of Canada's more interesting old cities was York, which has now been dissolved into the greater city of Toronto. This historic city was first established as a township in 1850, hosting many families and businesses until its dissolution in 1998.

One reason for this dramatic update was that York was confused with New York, and Canadian officials figured Ontario needed extra space anyway. Of course, those living in "York" didn't see any physical changes to their home, but it changed how they classified where they resided. Although long gone, York still rings through the ears of many Canadian citizens.

• Year founded : 1850
• Notable attractions : Yorkdale Shopping Centre, High Park Zoo, Royal Ontario Museum, Ontario Science Centre, Edwards Gardens, Aga Khan Museum

A four-day train trip from Toronto to Vancouver is worth booking for those who want to extend their vacation time after visiting York.

Trois-Rivières, Quebec

A quaint and cultured town filled with green spaces and museums awaits in trois-rivières.

Another historic town in Canada worth exploring is Trois-Rivières, originally founded in 1634. With a rich history and endless green spaces to relax and unwind in, this town is nice for a retreat and a history lesson in the Quebec area.

On top of that, Trois-Rivières boasts the riverfront Boréalis museum, tracking the area's local paper industry, plus the Centre d’exposition Raymond-Lasnier, which showcases beautiful art. Culture runs deep here and in much of Quebec, so Trois-Rivières is a historic and beautiful town to consider adding to the itinerary. There is also an Old Prison, which many visitors enjoy walking through, dating back hundreds of years into the past.

The Forges du Saint-Maurice is another historically significant complex, showcasing artifacts from Canada’s first iron-working community. There's so much to learn!

• Year founded : 1634
• Notable attractions : Parc Laviolette, Forges du Saint-Maurice National Historic Site, Salle J.- Antonio-Thompson, Vieille prison de Trois-Rivières, Moulin seigneurial de Pointe-du-Lac, Grand Prix de Trois-Rivières

Waterton, Alberta

Perfectly nestled at the us/canada border, waterton is a lakeside historical hub surrounded by mountains.

Located some distance from the US/Canada border at Waterton Lake National Park, which also serves as an International Peace Park and a World Heritage site, Waterton is one of the most beautiful towns in Alberta (other than Banff) . The small village-town boasts a unique location with a captivating landscape and incredible historic sites, including the famous Prince of Wales Hotel.

It is also surrounded by dramatic mountains, which means multiple outdoor adventures for vacationers. Guests can enjoy shopping and dining in the local Waterton's colorful shops and delicious restaurants for an authentic experience.

• Year founded: 1904
• Notable attractions : Waterton Lake National Park, Prince of Wales Hotel

Related: 10 Of Alberta's Most Beautiful Road Trips Worth Crossing The Border For

Trinity, Newfoundland

Ideal for a summer getaway, this filming location and historic fishing station offers old-school charm.

Trinity is one of the most beautiful small towns in Canada for a summer trip . The 18th-century gem grew out of a harbor town on the Coast of Newfoundland. Its unique and quaint old-school design and style have been a major attraction for tourists and filmmakers, and the famous hit film, The Shipping New s, was made in this charming town.

The small town is among the historic places in Canada and has a year-round resident population of only a few people. However, it still attracts numerous tourists who explore the ancient churches, museums, enchanting restored sandbox buildings, and the unique arts along its quaint street walks.

• Dating back to: the 16th and 17th centuries as a permanent fishing station (it's been an active settlement since around 1588)
• Notable attractions: Explore the Bonavista Peninsula, go whale watching, go to the theater

The Pas, Manitoba

Deep blue lakes and starry skies; here's to one of the oldest settlements in northern manitoba.

Popularly celebrated among the oldest settlements in Northern Manitoba, the town of Pas is another custodian of Canadian heritage and home to unique natural wonders, including one of the true blue lakes of the world, Clearwater Lake , which lies just minutes from the town.

Established in 1912, the Pas is among the many old Canadian towns, but its age and history are not its sole draw; its natural beauty makes it a year-round tourist destination, even though it may be considered one of the lesser-known places in Canada to visit.

The town also boasts an amazing culture that reveals a unique side of Canada, and vacationers will enjoy attending numerous festivals and unique events. Fishing and hunting are also among the most popular activities to enjoy during a visit to the Pas.

• Year incorporated as a town: 1912, but existed long before that
• Notable attractions: The annual Trappers’ Festival and Clearwater Lake

Pas is a perfect getaway destination that offers vacationers a lifetime opportunity to witness aurora borealis, making it one of the best places in the world to see the Northern Lights .

St. Andrew’s, New Brunswick

Canada's oldest seaside resort town boasts over 300 heritage buildings and water activities.

Located at the Bay of Fundy, St Andrew’s is considered Canada’s oldest seaside resort town. It is among Canada's largest National Historic Districts, containing over 300 heritage buildings, hosts a population of over 2,000 people, and is home to a rich history and Canadian culture. There are also numerous water sports opportunities in this small town, including canoeing and boating.

Interestingly, St. Andrew's is located in one of the best kayaking destinations in Canada and will never disappoint, thanks to its excellent water activities. It's also a premier whale-watching destination. Overall, this enchanting town is a splendid choice for vacationers looking for a relaxed weekend to enjoy marine delicacies, including lobsters and fresh fish.

• Year established: 1783
• Notable attractions: Centennial Park, Bertha Day Art & Craft Gallery, and Jarea Art Studio Gallery

Sparta, Ontario

Once called 'yarmouth corners,' this old canadian quakers' town exudes 1800s history.

Sparta was traditionally referred to as ‘Yarmouth Corners.’ It is one of the many historic small towns in Canada that houses the Quakers’ culture, style, and heritage, and history buffs will have fun spending time in the incredible Quaker Meeting House, which is operational to date.

This ancient town dates back to the 1800s and boasts a fantastic collection of Spartan-style artifacts from the early days. To see and learn about the unique artifacts, visitors should visit the Anvil Museum house. Other highlights include the historic Sparta House Tea Room and Ye Olde Forge.

• Dating back to: The 1800s
• Notable attractions: Historic sites like the Ye Olde Forge and the Sparta House Tea Room

Sparta town, Ontario, is a charming historic gem with much to offer. However, it is also perfect for nature lovers who shouldn't miss the Sparta Lavender Farm during their trip.

Related: 15 Best Campgrounds In Ontario For First-Time Adventurers

Mahone Bay, Nova Scotia

1770s influence and ancient structures line the way in mahone bay.

Founded in the 1700s, the maritime town of Mahone Bay in Nova Scotia is a historic charm and a cultural gem with much to offer. The old town has many ancient buildings, including some of the most photographed sites in Canada. The gorgeous historic churches here boast stunning architectural features that photographers will love to capture for memories.

Mahone Bay town also offers visitors a range of antique shops, art galleries, and restaurants, some of which are housed in 19th-century buildings.

• Dating back to: the 1700s
• Notable attractions : Halifax Citadel National Historic Site, Halifax Public Gardens, Maritime Museum of the Atlantic, Fortress of Louisbourg National Historic Site

The small town, the relaxed and laid-back vibe, and the historical charm make Mahone Bay a perfect choice for getaways. However, during a visit to the town, vacationers shouldn't miss water activities, such as kayaking and canoeing.

Lunenburg, Nova Scotia

This historic unesco world heritage town is canada's answer to venice.

Lunenburg is one of the best old towns in Canada; it was declared a World Heritage site by UNESCO and contains stunning historic artifacts. Located on a small hill among waters with old buildings constructed in ancient architectural styles, the small town is occasionally compared to Venice.

It offers visitors a laid-back atmosphere, amazing culture, and a rich heritage - and history lovers will enjoy exploring its ancient treasures. One of the must-visits is the famous Bluenose, a celebrated and iconic racing ship dating back to the 1920s, whose image was engraved onto the Canadian 10 cents coin. The town has sustained its culture of boat-making, which dates back to 1753. Still, Lunenburg is known to impress all visitors, whether history buffs or not.

• Year Established: 1753
• Notable attractions: Explore the old town, St. John’s Anglican Church, and the Fisheries Museum Of The Atlantic

Kenora, Ontario

Experience aboriginal culture in ontario's historic town of kenora.

As Ontario continues to boast many other scenic towns and world heritage cities, the small town of Kenora, Ontario, is a uniquely incredible yet underrated historic town in Canada. The town is the perfect spot to explore the Aboriginal culture and has many iconic attractions.

Its long, fascinating history makes it an interesting destination for vacationers who'd love to travel back in time when the British discovered it. One of the best sights to visit in Kenora is the Lake of the Woods Museum, an award-winning museum where tourists can learn about aboriginal culture.

• Year founded: Incorporated a Manitoba town in 1882
• Notable attractions: Lake of the Woods Museum, Rushing River Provincial Park, Tug Boat James McMillan, the Goodwill Geyser

Aboriginal culture and history are among the unique and most important cultural elements of Canadian history. For this reason, The Lake of the Woods Museum is a must-visit.

Hudson, Quebec

Founded by english, scottish, and irish immigrants, hudson is a historic getaway near montreal.

The charming historic town also finds itself among the oldest places in Canada. It was founded by immigrants from England, Scotland, and Ireland, and it is a significant part of the history of Quebec. It brings about a unique culture and style with a charming, fun English vibe. The town is located 60 km West of the famous city of Montreal and has a residence of about 5000 people.

Hudson, Quebec, is popular for flea markets, where tourists can explore a range of local products and interact with the locals. It is recognized for its world-class cuisines, which travelers can experience in the delicious eateries. It is also home to historic tearooms and a thriving crafts and art industry, which speak volumes about its culture.

• Year founded: 1865, and became a town in 1969
• Notable attractions: Hudson Village Theatre, Sandy Beach , Parc Jack Layton, Greenwood Centre for Living History, St James Church Hall, Le Nichoir

Hudson Town is a hub for local and organic cuisines, making it a must-visit destination for foodies.

Bay Bulls, Newfoundland

Located near bigger cities, this historic town is a perfect escape from the noise and great for whale watching.

Located about 30 minutes from the popular and one of the biggest cities in Canada, St John, Bay Bulls Town is yet another important historic village in Newfoundland. This is among the most charming small towns in Canada and houses over 1000 people. It also serves as a major tourist destination, mostly attracting visitors from St John.

Vacationers can enjoy lots of water activities, including whale watching, iceberg viewing, and boat tours. The small town is also known for its fishing activity, having survived the test of time majorly as a fishing village.

• Year founded: First appeared on a map drawn by Thomas Hood in 1592
• Notable attractions: The bays of Bay Bulls (aka Bulls Head) and Witless Bay (the best places for whale watching here), Signal Hill National Historic Site, Saints Peter and Paul Church

The vacationers to Bay Bulls, Newfoundland, can also enjoy bird-watching at a local sanctuary in the small town .

Kingston | Destination Ontario

Regional map of Ontario

Ontario's diverse regions boast iconic attractions, local cuisine, unique experiences and awe-inspiring nature. Explore cosmopolitan cities, charming towns and communities brimming with character.

Please select one of Ontario's 15 regions to explore.

• 1   Southwestern Ontario
• 2   Niagara Region
• 3   Hamilton, Halton and Brant
• 4   Huron, Perth, Waterloo and Wellington
• 5   Greater Toronto Area
• 6   York, Durham and Headwaters
• 7   Bruce, Grey and Simcoe
• 8   Kawarthas and Northumberland
• 9   Southeastern Ontario
• 10   Ottawa Region
• 11   Haliburton Highlands to the Ottawa Valley
• 12   Algonquin Park, Muskoka and Parry Sound
• 13a   Northeastern Ontario
• 13b   Sault Ste. Marie and Algoma
• 13c   Northwest Ontario

Southwestern Ontario

Surrounded by the shorelines of Lake Erie, Lake St. Clair and Lake Huron, discover freshwater beaches and the best sunsets in Canada’s southernmost region.

Niagara Region

Visit the breathtaking Horseshoe Falls, discover non-stop excitement at speedways and museums and explore wineries at Ontario’s premier wine destination.

Hamilton, Halton and Brant

Discover countless waterfalls, renowned historic sights, significant Indigenous heritage, and Canada's largest botanical garden at the "Heart of Ontario"

Huron, Perth, Waterloo and Wellington

From blue flag beaches to farmers’ markets, Oktoberfest parade and the birthplace of Justin Bieber (Stratford), this region offers something for everyone.

Greater Toronto Area

Discover lively festivals, major league sports events, renowned art and an exceptional foodie culture in Canada’s largest and most multicultural urban centre.

York, Durham and Headwaters

This charming stretch of Ontario offers laid-back, small towns, Lake Simcoe beach and fishing escapes and family-friendly amusement parks and experiences.

Bruce, Grey and Simcoe

From shipwrecks to the sun and sand at the beach, mysterious caves and crystal blue waters, you’ll find an endless array of activities in this region.

Kawarthas and Northumberland

From a canoe museum to Indigenous heritage, scenic parks, lakes and waterways, the Kawarthas and Northumberland region offers many unique experiences.

Southeastern Ontario

Experience the serenity of the region by kayaking the natural waterways or on scenic river cruise and discover the rich history Canada's first capital city.

Ottawa Region

From urban experiences like world-class art galleries to outdoor adventures like hiking, cycling or whitewater rafting, Canada’s capital region has it all.

Haliburton Highlands to the Ottawa Valley

Haliburton Highlands to the Ottawa Valley, also called “Ontario's Highlands”, encompasses six unique counties, each with surprising adventures and hidden...

Algonquin Park, Muskoka and Parry Sound

Paddle through pristine lakes, stay in cozy lodges and discover some of Ontario’s most iconic natural landscapes in "Ontario cottage country".

Northeastern Ontario

Whether you’re in the mood for winter ice fishing, incredible motorcycle tours or a ride on a wilderness train route, you’ll find it all in this region.

Sault Ste. Marie and Algoma

The region is home to great alpine and downhill skiing and boasts some of Canada’s best freshwater fishing, canoeing, kayaking and mountain biking.

Northwest Ontario

Go on a wilderness adventure like ultimate freshwater fishing, hunting or backcountry paddling or immerse yourself in history in Ontario’s largest region.

Bay of Quinte and Belleville

Thousand Islands and Rideau Canal

Lennox and Addington North

Frontenac County North

County of Brant

Wasaga Beach

Superior Country

Sunset Country

Prescott and Russell

Collingwood

Blind River

Algoma Country

Lennox and Addington South

Halton Hills

Elliot Lake

Richmond Hill

Last updated:  March 5, 2024

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Where to See the Solar Eclipse: The 15 Best Cities to Watch the Event

By Katherine McLaughlin

If you’re a fan of astronomy or otherwise interested in unique natural phenomenons, you may be wondering where to see the solar eclipse today—or if the big event will be visible from your home. Today, a number of cities throughout Mexico , the United States, and Canada will experience brief moments of dawn- or dusk-like darkness right in the middle of the day. Officially described as a total solar eclipse, the occurrence happens when the moon passes between the sun and the Earth and blocks the entirety of sun’s face.

Because it’s not something that happens everyday, the marvel has been prompting locals and travelers alike to scope out the best viewing locations, but fear not if you don’t have your spot figured out yet. Todays’s eclipse will travel along a wide, densely populated path. NASA estimated that 31.6 million people live in an area that will see the total solar eclipse and another 150 million are within 200 miles of it. What’s more, there won’t be another total solar eclipse visible from the contiguous United States until 2044, according to NASA , making it all the more important to catch this one.

For most of the United States, the eclipse won’t happen until the afternoon, meaning there’s still time to figure out how you’ll watch it. Here, AD covers everything you need to know about the upcoming event, including the 13 best cities to see the eclipse.

What is a total solar eclipse?

There are a number of different types of eclipses, which offer different views of either the sun or moon. As NASA explains it, “A solar eclipse happens when the moon passes between the sun and Earth, casting a shadow on Earth that either fully or partially blocks the sun’s light in some areas.” A total solar eclipse means the moon will completely block the sun’s face, and if you’re in the path of the eclipse, you’ll be able to see the sun’s corona and outer atmosphere, weather permitting. Other types of eclipses, like a partial solar eclipse, occur when the moon covers only some of the sun, resulting in a crescent shape.

A total solar eclipse is seen on a partly cloudy day.

How do you safely watch the total solar eclipse?

Not only are solar eclipses special because of their relative rarity, they’re unique in how they’re watched. For the few minutes when the moon is fully blocking the sun—know as totality—viewers can look directly at the sun without any eye protection. Any other time, including the hours before and after totality when you’ll see a partial eclipse, it’s important to wear protective eye gear, such as solar eclipse glasses. “As soon as you see even a little bit of the bright sun reappear after totality, immediately put your eclipse glasses back on or use a handheld solar viewer to look at the sun,” NASA explains.

How often do solar eclipses happen?

Solar eclipses, of one kind or another, happen between two and five times a year. Total eclipses happen about once every 18 months. However, this doesn’t mean one will be visible from your home this often. According to the Natural History Museum, London , a total solar eclipse is viewable from any one place about once every 400 years. For example, the last total solar eclipse visible from the United States happened in 2017 and followed a track from Oregon towards South Carolina. This year, the solar eclipse’s path will start in Texas and move northeast towards Maine. The next total solar eclipse will happen in 2026 and will be visible from the Arctic, Greenland, Iceland, and northern Spain.

How long will the 2024 solar eclipse last?

Total solar eclipses can last anywhere from a few seconds to several minutes. The difference in totality length has to do with how far apart the sun, moon, and Earth are at any given time, since the latter two bodies both orbit in elliptical paths.

When the Earth is furthest from the sun—making the star appear smaller—and the moon is closest to the Earth—which makes the moon look big—totality can last for over seven minutes. As Astronomy Mag reports, these circumstances will line up in about 160 years, when a solar eclipse on July 16, 2186, will see almost seven-and-a-half minutes of totality. On the other extreme, if the Earth is at its closest point to the sun and the moon is at its furthest point from Earth, humans won’t see a total solar eclipse, even if all of the celestial bodies are in line. Since totality is all about the perspective of the viewer, this is also why each city will experience the 2024 eclipse differently.

This year, totality will last for a little over four minutes in some areas, which is significantly more than the two minutes that people experienced during the 2017 eclipse. As NASA notes, “During the 2017 total solar eclipse, the moon was a little bit farther away from Earth than it will be during the upcoming total solar eclipse, causing the path of that eclipse to be a little skinnier.” Seven years ago, the path of totality—which shows which parts of the world will be able to see the total solar eclipse—was only about 62 to 71 miles wide. This year, that path ranges from 108 to 122 miles wide. “Meaning at any given moment this eclipse covers more ground,” NASA explains.

How to read maps showing the 2024 solar eclipse

As noted, this year’s path of totality is about 110 miles wide. Cities closer to the center of the path will sustain total darkness longer than those on the edges. In addition to longer totality than in 2017, this year’s path of totality covers more densely populated areas than the previous one. This means more people should be able to experience the total solar eclipse.

The 2024 solar eclipse map from NASA shows where totality will occur on April 8.

Any part of the country that is not within the path may see a partial eclipse, and the closer a location is to the strip, the smaller the crescent of visible sun will be. In these locations, it won’t be safe to look directly at the eclipse without protective glasses or a viewing device. NASA has put together an interactive map , which allows viewers to see the eclipse timing in their city.

Where to see the solar eclipse

According to NASA , cities in Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Missouri, Illinois, Kentucky, Indiana, Ohio, Pennsylvania, New York, Vermont, New Hampshire, Maine, and small parts of Tennessee and Michigan will experience the total solar eclipse. Parts of Mexico and Canada will also fall within the eclipse’s path. Read on for the best places to see the 2024 total solar eclipse.

Mazatlán, Mexico

By Katie Schultz

By Sydney Wingfield

By Gabriela Ulloa

Mexico’s pacific coast will be the first place in continental North America to experience the eclipse. Mazatlán, a popular resort city, is an ideal location to see the occurrence, as it is directly in the eclipse’s path. Totality will begin around 11:07 a.m. local time and last for 4 minutes and 17 seconds. Because it’s such an optimal place to see the 2024 solar eclipse, NASA is hosting a viewing event at Vidanta Mazatlán . Here, visitors will be able to watch screens showing telescope views of the eclipse in addition to other hands-on activities, such as projects for kids and touchable moon rocks.

Torreón, Mexico

Located more centrally in the country, the solar eclipse will also be visible from Torreón. Totality will start just before 12:19 p.m. local time and last for 4 minutes and 12 seconds. A partial eclipse will also be visible before and after totality, starting at 11:44 a.m. and ending at 1:54 p.m.

Texas Hill Country

Part of Texas Hill Country, Kerrville is a prime location to watch the 2024 eclipse. Near the Mexican border, it will be among the first US cities to experience totality, which will begin at 1:32 p.m. and last for almost four and a half minutes. Austin and Dallas are also in the path of totality, but will only experience the darkness for about two minutes and a little under four minutes, respectively. NASA is also hosting an event here, which will take place in Louise Hays Park and include live music, speakers, and programming for kids.

Dallas, Texas

The Dallas-Fort Worth area is among the most densely populated places from which the eclipse will be visible. Totality will last for 3 minutes and 51 seconds and begin at 1:40 p.m. The city has put together a list of ideal places within the city to watch the event, including the Dallas Zoo, Dallas Museum of Art, and White Rock Lake Park.

Russellville, Arkansas

Russellville, about 85 miles east of Little Rock, will experience 4 minutes and 12 seconds of totality, starting at 1:50 p.m. The city has planned a number of exciting programming for the historic event, including a solar eclipse festival and a concert with Grammy-winner Rhonda Vincent.

Cape Girardeau, Missouri

Located along the Mississippi River, Cape Girardeau is one of the best places in Missouri to watch the 2024 solar eclipse. According to NASA’s map, totality will last for a little over four minutes, beginning at 1:58 p.m. Head to Old Town Cape, where the city is hosting a block party on the day.

Carbondale, Illinois

Informally known as Little Egypt—possibly because the area delivered grains to northern parts of the state during the 1800s famine or because the southern tip of Illinois is similar to the Nile delta region in Egypt—Carbondale will experience 4 minutes and 10 seconds of totality, beginning at 1:59 p.m. The city also experienced totality during the 2017 eclipse, though it will see a longer dark period this time around. Home of Southern Illinois University, the school is hosting public viewing at its football stadium.

Bloomington, Indiana

Much of central and southern Indiana will experience totality during the 2024 solar eclipse, but Bloomington, largely a college town and home to Indiana University, will be among the best places in the Hoosier state to watch the event, since totality will last for about four minutes. The town is home to Indiana University, which is among our list of the most beautiful college campuses in America. Spend the afternoon strolling through the campus’s Gothic- and Romanesque-inspired buildings, and then catch the eclipse at 3 p.m.

Indianapolis, Indiana

They don’t call Indianapolis the crossroads of America for no reason: The state capital is at the intersection of four major US highways, Interstate 65, Interstate 69, Interstate 70, and Interstate 74. This means it’s a relatively accessible location for those in surrounding areas and among the best places to travel to for the solar eclipse. Here, totality will last for about 3 minutes and 47 seconds and start at 3:06 p.m. NASA is hosting an event at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway and will have experts on-hand to answer all questions about the eclipse. The city has also suggested White River State Park as an ideal solar eclipse viewing location, where a number of food trucks, local vendors, and other activations will be set up.

Cleveland, Ohio

Cleveland won’t be in a solar eclipse’s path of totality again until 2444 , making it a once in a lifetime experience for any locals hoping to watch the eclipse from their hometown. The city will experience maximum darkness at 3:15 p.m., which will last for just under 4 minutes. To commemorate the moment, the Great Lake Science Center is hosting a Total Eclipse Fest on April 6 through April 8. The free outdoor event will include speakers, concerts, performances, and hands-on science activities.

Erie, Pennsylvania

Only a small portion of northern Pennsylvania will be within the path of totality. Erie, located along the shores of the lake of the same name, will be one of the best places in the state to see the eclipse. Totality will last for 3 minutes and 42 seconds, starting at 3:16 p.m. The local government has put together a map of public parks and other viewing locations to watch the spectacle.

Buffalo, New York

Buffalo, New York, will see 3 minutes and 46 seconds of total darkness, beginning at 3:18 p.m. There are a number of public “ watch parties ” happening in the city, which the government has compiled for visitors and locals. Midcentury-modern architecture fans may want to use the day to visit Graycliff, a Frank Lloyd Wright–designed estate, which is hosting a special open house on April 8, allowing guests to watch the eclipse from the property.

Niagara Region, Ontario

Small parts of Canada will also witness total darkness during the 2024 eclipse. The Niagara region is the best place to see totality, which will start at 3:19 p.m. and last for 3 minutes and 15 seconds. Montreal will also experience totality, but only for a little over one minute.

Burlington, Vermont

Much of New England will miss out on totality during the 2024 eclipse, as the path will only cover parts of northern Vermont, New Hampshire, and Maine. Burlington is among the best places for those in the region to travel to, as it will experience 3 minutes and 19 seconds of darkness, starting at 3:26 p.m.

Houlton, Maine

Maine is the northern most place in the United States to see the total eclipse in 2024, also making it the last place in the country to experience totality. Houlton will be among the best places in the state to watch the sight, and darkness will begin at 3:32 p.m. and last for 3 minutes and 20 seconds.

How will weather impact visibility?

Geographically, the cities listed above represent the best places to see the 2024 solar. However, weather will play a major role in just how well those on the ground will be able to see the phenomenon. It goes without saying that cloudy conditions or rain will impact visibility and make it harder to see the eclipse. Currently, meteorologist are forecasting worse conditions in the south-central United States, which could affect those in Texas and Arkansas. Those in the Midwest and northeast have better odds, where conditions are presently forecasted to be sunny and with clear skies.

What will I see during the solar eclipse if my city isn’t along the path of totality?

Though not every city will see a total solar eclipse, most of the United States will see at least a partial eclipse. For example, as NASA’s map shows, Seattle, which is one of the furthest metropolises from the eclipse’s path will still see about 20% of the sun covered by the moon. Here, peak coverage will happen around 11:29 a.m. On the south side of the country, Miami, which is also quite far from the eclipse’s path, will see 46.2% of the sun covered around 3:01 p.m.

On the other hand, cities which are not along the path of totality but are very close will see a greater percentage of the sun covered. St. Louis, for example, which is just outside the path of totality, will see the moon covering 99.1% of the sun during peak totality, which will happen at 2 p.m. For detailed information about your city, see NASA’s interactive eclipse map .

Can I watch the 2024 solar eclipse virtually?

If you won’t be within the path of totality, a number of organizations are live streaming the monumental event (This may also come in handy if a city experiences cloudy weather or rain on eclipse day). To start, NASA is offering live broadcasts in both English and Spanish and live streams from telescopes that will capture the eclipse as it moves across the country. Scientific American will capture the event with jets that have been converted into flying telescopes to chase the eclipse, offering a view that one simply can’t find on the ground.

ABC News and National Geographic are also teaming up to produce “Eclipse Across America,” a live special hosted by David Muir and Linsey Davis. Coverage starts at 2:00 p.m. ET on ABC, ABC News Live, National Geographic Channel, Nat Geo WILD, Disney+, Hulu and Network Social Media Platforms and will broadcast from 10 cities along the path of totality, including Mazatlán, Mexico; Russelville, Arkansas; and Houlton, Maine.

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When and where the solar eclipse will be crossing the U.S.

A total solar eclipse will grace the skies over North America on Monday, one of the most hotly anticipated sky-watching events in recent years.

Weather permitting , millions of people in Mexico, 15 U.S. states and eastern Canada will have the chance to see the moon slip between Earth and sun, temporarily blocking the sun’s light .

The total solar eclipse will be visible along a “path of totality” that measures more than 100 miles wide and extends across the continent. Along that path, the moon will fully obscure the sun, causing afternoon skies to darken for a few minutes.

Follow live updates on the solar eclipse

In all other parts of the continental U.S., a partial solar eclipse will be visible, with the moon appearing to take a bite out of the sun. Exactly how big a bite depends on the location.

The first spot in North America that will experience totality on Monday is on Mexico’s Pacific coast at around 11:07 a.m. PT, according to NASA .

After moving northeast across Mexico, the eclipse’s path travels through Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Missouri, Illinois, Kentucky, Indiana, Ohio, Pennsylvania, New York, Vermont, New Hampshire and Maine. Slivers of Michigan and Tennessee will also be able to witness totality if conditions are clear.

In Canada, the eclipse will be visible in parts of southern Ontario, Quebec, New Brunswick, Prince Edward Island and Cape Breton, at the eastern end of Nova Scotia.

The timing of the eclipse and the duration of totality varies by location. Most places will experience around 2 minutes of darkness, but the longest periods of totality are typically in the center of the eclipse’s path.

This year, the longest stretch of totality will last 4 minutes and 28 seconds in an area northwest of Torreón, Mexico.

Below is a list of timings for some U.S. cities along the path of totality, according to NASA .

• Dallas: Partial eclipse begins at 12:23 p.m. CT and totality at 1:40 p.m. CT.
• Idabel, Oklahoma: Partial eclipse begins at 12:28 p.m. CT and totality at 1:45 p.m. CT.
• Little Rock, Arkansas: Partial eclipse begins at 12:33 p.m. CT and totality at 1:51 p.m. CT.
• Poplar Bluff, Missouri: Partial eclipse begins at 12:39 p.m. CT and totality at 1:56 p.m. CT.
• Paducah, Kentucky: Partial eclipse begins at 12:42 p.m. CT and totality at 2:00 p.m. CT.
• Carbondale, Illinois: Partial eclipse begins at 12:42 p.m. CT and totality at 1:59 p.m. CT.
• Evansville, Indiana: Partial eclipse begins at 12:45 p.m. CT and totality at 2:02 p.m. CT.
• Cleveland: Partial eclipse begins at 1:59 p.m. ET and totality at 3:13 p.m.
• Erie, Pennsylvania: Partial eclipse begins at 2:02 p.m. ET and totality at 3:16 p.m. ET.
• Buffalo, New York: Partial eclipse begins at 2:04 p.m. ET and totality at 3:18 p.m.
• Burlington, Vermont: Partial eclipse begins at 2:14 p.m. ET and totality at 3:26 p.m. ET.
• Lancaster, New Hampshire: Partial eclipse begins at 2:16 p.m. ET and totality at 3:27 p.m.
• Caribou, Maine: Partial eclipse begins at 2:22 p.m. ET and totality at 3:32 p.m. ET.

Other resources can also help you figure out when the various phases of the eclipse will be visible where you live, including NationalEclipse.com and TimeandDate.com .

If you plan to watch the celestial event, remember that it’s never safe to look directly at the sun, including through binoculars, telescopes or camera lenses. Special eclipse glasses are required to safely view solar eclipses and prevent permanent eye damage.

Denise Chow is a reporter for NBC News Science focused on general science and climate change.

Watch CBS News

What time the 2024 solar eclipse started, reached peak totality and ended

By Sarah Maddox

Updated on: April 9, 2024 / 5:04 AM EDT / CBS News

The 2024 solar eclipse will be visible across North America today. As the moon's position between the Earth and sun casts a shadow on North America, that shadow, or umbra, will travel along the surface from west to east at more than 1,500 miles per hour along the path of totality . 

That means the eclipse will start, peak and end at different times — as will the moments of total darkness along the path of totality — and the best time to view the eclipse depends on where you are located. Some places along the path will have more totality time than others.

In Texas, the south-central region had clouds in the forecast , but it was better to the northeast, according to the National Weather Service. The best eclipse viewing weather was expected in New Hampshire, Vermont and Maine, as well as in Canada's New Brunswick and Newfoundland.

What time does the 2024 total solar eclipse start?

The total solar eclipse will emerge over the South Pacific Ocean before the shadow falls across North America, beginning in parts of Mexico. The path of totality , where onlookers can witness the moon fully blocking the sun (through eclipse viewing glasses for safety ), is expected to first make landfall near the city of Mazatlán around 9:51 a.m. MT. 

The total solar eclipse will cross over the U.S.-Mexico border into Texas, where it will emerge over Eagle Pass at 12:10 p.m. CT and then peak at about 1:27 p.m. CT.

In Dallas, NASA data shows the partial eclipse will first become visible at 12:23 p.m. CT and peak at 1:40 p.m. CT. The next states in the path of totality are Oklahoma and Arkansas, where the eclipse begins in Little Rock at 12:33 p.m. CT. 

Cleveland will see the beginning of the eclipse at 1:59 p.m. ET. Darkness will start spreading over the sky in Buffalo, New York, at 2:04 p.m. ET. Then, the eclipse will reach northwestern Vermont, including Burlington, at 2:14 p.m. ET. Parts of New Hampshire and Maine will also follow in the path of totality before the eclipse first reaches the Canadian mainland  at 3:13 p.m. ET.

Although the experience won't be exactly the same, viewers in all the contiguous U.S. states outside the path of totality will still be able to see a partial eclipse. Some places will see most of the sun blocked by the moon, including Washington, D.C., where the partial eclipse will start at 2:04 p.m. ET and peak at about 3:20 p.m. ET.

In Chicago, viewers can start viewing the partial eclipse at 12:51 p.m. CT, with the peak arriving at 2:07 p.m. CT.  In Detroit, viewers will be able to enjoy a near-total eclipse beginning at 1:58 p.m. ET and peaking at 3:14 p.m. ET.

New York City will also see a substantial partial eclipse, beginning at 2:10 p.m. ET and peaking around 3:25 p.m. ET.

In Boston it will begin at 2:16 p.m. ET and peak at about 3:29 p.m. ET.

The below table by NASA shows when the eclipse will start, peak and end in 13 cities along the eclipse's path.

What time will the solar eclipse reach peak totality?

Millions more people will have the chance to witness the total solar eclipse this year than during the last total solar eclipse , which was visible from the U.S. in 2017. 

The eclipse's peak will mean something different for cities within the path of totality and for those outside. Within the path of totality, darkness will fall for a few minutes. The longest will last more than 4 minutes, but most places will see between 3.5 and 4 minutes of totality. In cities experiencing a partial eclipse, a percentage of the sun will be obscured for more than two hours.

Mazatlán is set to experience totality at 11:07 am PT. Dallas will be able to see the moon fully cover the sun at 1:40 p.m. CT. Little Rock will start to see the full eclipse at 1:51 p.m. CT, Cleveland at 3:13 p.m. ET and Buffalo at 3:18 p.m. ET. Totality will reach Burlington at 3:26 p.m. ET before moving into the remaining states and reaching Canada around 4:25 p.m.

Outside the path of totality, 87.4% of the sun will be eclipsed in Washington, D.C. at 3:20 p.m. ET, and Chicago will have maximum coverage of 93.9% at 2:07 p.m. CT. New York City is much closer to the path of totality this year than it was in 2017; it will see 89.6% coverage at 3:25 p.m. EDT. 

Detroit is another city that will encounter a near-total eclipse, with 99.2% maximum coverage at 3:14 p.m. ET. Boston will see 92.4% coverage at 3:29 p.m. ET.

What time will the solar eclipse end?

The eclipse will leave continental North America from Newfoundland, Canada, at 5:16 p.m. NT, according to NASA.

At the beginning of the path of totality in Mazatlán, the eclipse will be over by 12:32 p.m. PT, and it will leave Dallas at 3:02 p.m. CT. The eclipse will end in Little Rock at 3:11 p.m. CT, Cleveland at 4:29 p.m. CDT and Buffalo at 4:32 p.m. ET. Burlington won't be far behind, with the eclipse concluding at 4:37 p.m. ET.

Meanwhile, the viewing will end in Chicago at 3:21 p.m. CT, Washington, D.C. at 4:32 p.m. ET, and New York City at 4:36 p.m. ET. 

In Detroit, the partial eclipse will disappear at 4:27 p.m. ET, and in Boston, it will be over at 4:39 p.m. ET.

How long will the eclipse last in total?

The total solar eclipse will begin in Mexico at 11:07 a.m. PT and leave continental North America at 5:16 p.m. NT. From the time the partial eclipse first appears on Earth to its final glimpses before disappearing thousands of miles away, the celestial show will dazzle viewers for about 5 hours, according to timeanddate.com . 

The length of the total solar eclipse at points along the path depends on the viewing location. The longest will be 4 minutes and 28 seconds, northwest of Torreón, Mexico. Near the center of the path, totality takes place for the longest periods of time, according to NASA.

Spectators will observe totality for much longer today than during the 2017 eclipse , when the longest stretch of totality was 2 minutes and 32 seconds.

The moon's shadow seen on Earth today, called the umbra, travels at more than 1,500 miles per hour, according to NASA. It would move even more quickly if the Earth rotated in the opposite direction.

What is the longest a solar eclipse has ever lasted?

The longest known totality was 7 minutes and 28 seconds in 743 B.C. However, NASA says this record will be broken in 2186 with a 7 minute, 29 second total solar eclipse. The next total solar eclipse visible from parts of the U.S. won't happen until Aug. 23, 2044.

Sarah Maddox has been with CBS News since 2019. She works as an associate producer for CBS News Live.

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Solar eclipse maps show 2024 totality path, peak times across the U.S.

A total solar eclipse  crossed North America Monday with parts of 15 U.S. states within the path of totality. Maps show  where and when astronomy fans could see the big event  as skies darkened in the middle of the day Monday, April 8.

The total eclipse first appeared along Mexico's Pacific Coast at around 11:07 a.m. PDT, then traveled across a swath of the U.S., from Texas to Maine, and into Canada.

About 31.6 million people live in the path of totality , the area where the moon fully blocked out the sun , according to NASA. The path ranged between 108 and 122 miles wide. An additional 150 million people live within 200 miles of the path of totality.

Solar eclipse path of totality map for 2024

The total solar eclipse started over the Pacific Ocean, and the first location in continental North America that experienced totality was Mexico's Pacific Coast, around 11:07 a.m. PDT, according to NASA. From there, the path continued into Texas, crossing more than a dozen states before the eclipse enters Canada in southern Ontario. The eclipse exited continental North America at around 5:16 p.m. NDT from Newfoundland, Canada.

The path of totality included portions of the following states:

Texas OklahomaArkansasMissouri Illinois KentuckyIndianaOhio Pennsylvania New York Vermont New Hampshire Maine

Small parts of Tennessee and Michigan also experienced the total solar eclipse.

Several major cities across the U.S. were included in the eclipse's path of totality, while many others saw a partial eclipse. These were some of the best major cities for eclipse viewing — though the weather was a factor :

San Antonio, Texas (partially under the path)Austin, TexasWaco, TexasDallas, TexasLittle Rock, ArkansasIndianapolis, IndianaDayton, OhioCleveland, OhioBuffalo, New YorkRochester, New YorkSyracuse, New YorkBurlington, VermontMap of when the solar eclipse reached totality across its path

The eclipse began in the U.S. as a partial eclipse beginning at 12:06 p.m. CDT near Eagle Pass, Texas, before progressing to totality by about 1:27 p.m. CDT and then moving along its path to the northeast over the following few hours.

NASA shared times for several cities in the path of totality across the U.S. People could have also  checked their ZIP code on NASA's map  to see when the eclipse was to reach them if they were on, or near, the path of totality — or if they saw a partial eclipse instead.

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