fun places to visit ontario

19 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Ontario

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

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

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

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

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

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

1. Niagara Falls

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Visiting Wonderland is an easy day trip from Toronto .

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

More Related Articles on PlanetWare.com

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

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Must Do Canada

The Best Things to Do in Canada

The ULTIMATE Guide to the Best Things to Do in Ontario

June 9, 2020 By Matthew G. Bailey

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Last updated: May 15th, 2022

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

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

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

Table of Contents

Travel Video: What To Do in Ontario

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

Things to Do in Ontario: Ottawa

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

Canadian Parliament Buildings

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

Rideau Canal

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

Bytown Museum

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

Canadian Museum of History

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

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

Diefenbunker Canada’s Cold War Museum

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

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

Nordik Spa-Nature

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

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

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

Fun Things to Do in Ontario: Niagara Falls

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

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

Niagara Helicopters

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

Journey Behind the Falls

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

Hornblower Niagara Cruises

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

White Water Walk

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

Whirlpool Aero Car

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

Niagara Culinary Tours

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

Butterfly Conservatory

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

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

Skylon Tower

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

Niagara SkyWheel

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

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

Toronto, Ontario, Things to Do

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

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

Royal Ontario Museum

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

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

Art Gallery of Ontario

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

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

Hockey Hall of Fame

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

Tasty Tours Food Tour

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

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

Bruce Bell Historical Walking Tour

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

uFly Flight Simulator

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

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

Steam Whistle Brewery

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

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

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

Toronto Islands and a Toronto Harbour Cruise

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

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

Canada’s Wonderland

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

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

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

Things to Do in Sudbury, Ontario

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

Visit the Big Nickel

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

Explore Dynamic Earth

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

Lake Laurentian Conservation Area

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

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

Go Snowmobiling

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

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

Thrilling Stuff to Do in Ontario: Kingston

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

Take a Kingston Trolley Tour

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

Take a 1000 Island Boat Cruise

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

Go Shopping on Princess Street

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

Visit Historic Fort Henry

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

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

Other Cool Places to Visit in Ontario

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

Algonquin Provincial Park

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

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

Getting to Ontario Canada

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

Getting to Ontario by Plane

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

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

Getting to Ontario by Car

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

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

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

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

Getting to and Around Ontario by Bus

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

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

Getting to and Around Ontario by Train

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

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

Getting to and Around Ontario by Boat

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

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

Best Time to Visit Ontario

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

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

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

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

Fun Facts About Canada Ontario

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

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

Final Thoughts on What to Do in Ontario, Canada

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

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

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

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

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About Matthew G. Bailey

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

© 2022 Must Do Canada. All Rights Reserved.

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Unique Places You’ll Never Believe Are in Ontario

These unique places in Ontario will have you thinking twice about Canada’s most populous province. From amazing beaches to island chains.

Ontario is a province packed with surprises. From Thunder Bay to Windsor there are fascinating discoveries to be found that will make you second-guess what you know about the province.

It’s hard to believe some of these unique places are even in Ontario. From a chain of islands with mysteriously vanishing roads to palm tree-lined beaches on Caribbean-blue waters, these unique places in Ontario are waiting to desperate to be discovered.

Unusual places in Ontario stretch from the far north to the deep south of the province, and we have laid out some of the coolest and most accessible Ontario attractions for those looking for Ontario destinations that lie outside of the ordinary.

Ride the Rails in Agawa Canyon

One of the most unique places in Ontario is the picturesque 175-metre-deep Agawa Canyon near Sault Ste. Marie. In Agawa Canyon, visitors can take part in a daylong rail adventure. The Agawa Canyon train tour departs from Sault Ste. Marie and rumbles through the jaw-dropping scenery of northern Ontario.

.As you chug through stunning landscapes, you’ll be surrounded by spectacular granite towers and pass by rainbow-misted waterfalls.

The Agawa Canyon train tour winds along the beautiful valley floor before making a 90-minute stop that allows you to hike and explore the canyon floor. Those looking for a little exercise can climb the 372 steps and walking path along the Lookout Trail to get an Instagram-worthy view from high up Agawa Canyon.

What to Do Near Agawa Canyon

While you’re in the region, explore some of the other incredible things to do near Agawa Canyon. The City of Sault Ste. Marie could easily make it onto the list of unique destinations in Ontario. This often-overlooked city features a wealth of experiences and excellent restaurants. “The Soo,” as it’s often called, has an incredible food scene and some of Canada’s most important Indigenous history.

Take in the beautiful trails of Whitefish Island and the historic Sault Ste. Marie Canal Historic Site. The Canadian Bushplane Museum is a fun place to explore some of the incredible aviation history of Canada.

Flowerpots and Shipwrecks at Fathom Five National Marine Park

There are few destinations in Ontario where you can hike among some of the most unique rock formations in Canada in the morning and then dive or snorkel among shipwrecks in the afternoon. But you experience these unique Ontario attractions and more at Fathom Five National Marine Park near the town of Tobermory at the tip of the Bruce Peninsula .

Fathom Five is the resting place of 22 well-preserved shipwrecks. These wrecks have made it one of the world’s premier freshwater diving destinations. Some shipwrecks lie just off the shores in water so shallow and clear that they are easily accessible to snorkelers. Another way to see them is via a Fathom Five glass-bottom boat tour to see the wrecks without getting wet.

If you explore deeper into the park, you’ll discover Flowerpot Island. This unique island boasts two massive “flowerpot” rock pillars that tower above the rocky shore. These pillars are one of Canada’s most iconic attractions. Flowerpot Island also boasts several hiking trails and shallow waters for swimming in the blue waters of Georgian Bay.

What to Do Near Fathom Five National Marine Park

Not only is Fathom Five National Marine Park one of the most unique places in Ontario, but it’s surrounded by some of the most incredible places to visit in Ontario.

Located at the tip of the Bruce Peninsula, Fathom Five visitors can swim at the Grotto in Bruce Peninsula National Park in the morning and then experience a sunset dinner cruise on the Chi Cheemaun Ferry to Manitoulin Island . All on the same day that you explore Fathom Five Marine Park.

Turn your Fathom Five experience into a long weekend by enjoying meals at the Tobermory Brewing Company , one of the town’s legendary waterside hotspots..

Drive The Long Sault Parkway

Located halfway between the city of Kingston and Montreal, Quebec, Long Sault Parkway offers one of the most amazing drives in Ontario . This sweeping series of 11 islands was once a series of hilltop villages. The region was flooded to create International Seaway and Power Dam project in 1958.

Now, the remains of the villages make up a series of green jewels connected by causeways and bridges that stretch out into the St. Lawrence River from the town of Long Sault.

This drive along the Long Sault Parkway offers road trippers and cyclists the chance to explore one of the most unique things to do in Ontario while enjoying beaches, campgrounds, and much more. You can even wander through the remains of the former communities that once made up the Long Sault hilltops.

What to Do Near Long Sault Parkway

The area near Long Sault Parkway is ripe with amazing waterfronts and rich Ontario history. Make sure to make the short drive to Upper Canada Village . This recreation town explores some of the early history of Ontario, including a fun collection of locals in period costumes.

If you have the chance to visit Long Sault during Canada Day, make sure to take in the fireworks display. It’s one of the best fireworks shows outside of Ottawa and Toronto. And finding a seat is never a problem.

Explore Not One, But Two Castles in The Thousand Islands

Ok, I’ll admit, this one may be a bit of a cheat. While the Thousand Island tours leave from Gananoque in Ontario, the two Thousand Island castles are technically in New York State. You will a passport in order to explore them on your own. But if you go on one of the 1000 islands boat tours that isn’t required.

Boldt Castle and Singer Castle are majestic works of architecture on the St. Lawrence River. Boldt Castle, whose construction was abandoned after the death of the owner’s wife, has one of the most stunning properties in Canada. While Singer Castle is still privately owned and occasionally acts as an ultra-exclusive accommodation for the rich and famous features cool easter eggs and hidden rooms.

What to Do Near Thousand Islands, Ontario

The Thousand Islands are one of the most spectacular places in Ontario. There’s no lack of things to do in the area. Take the time to explore Thousand Islands, National Park. You can take in some iconic views from their red Muskoka chairs.

Make the short drive to Canada’s first capital, Kingston, Ontario , and take in some of the amazing culinary creations coming out of this historic town. While you’re there, visit the popular Fort Henry to see how important the military has been to the growth of the St. Lawrence River route.

Or head further north to the city of Brockville, Ontario where you’ll find Canada’s first rail tunnel and an absolutely incredible marine museum.

Southernmost Point of Mainland Canada, Point Pelee National Park

Canada’s always considered pretty “far north,” according to much of the world. But Ontarians know that this province also dips pretty far south.

Just how far south does Ontario go?

Well, the southernmost tip of Canada sits at the bottom of Ontario on a long stretch of sand within Point Pelee National Park . Point Pelee dips so far south that it’s basically in line with northern California and European cities such as Barcelona.

Combined with the warming air coming from Lake Erie, Point Pelee National Park in Leamington, Ontario, has sub-tropical plant species that are completely unique from the rest of Canada.

Point Pelee is home to one of the world’s largest monarch butterflies and bird migrations. A visit here during the spring is an absolute must for outdoor lovers. And that’s not all there is to explore in the park. Check out the beautiful marsh boardwalk and the ruins of historic homes and farms that once thrived here.

Point Pelee is a phenomenal destination all year round. The dark sky viewing is at its best in winter when the park is the least crowded. You can find out all about visiting Point Pelee in winter here .

Other Things to Do Near Point Pelee, National Park

Southern Ontario has loads of incredible experiences on offer. Visitors looking for unique places in Ontario can visit the southernmost Ontario wineries on Pelee Island . For something closer to the park, drop over to Birdie’s Perch for some local-caught fish and chips. You can either eat in the clever double-decker bus or enjoy your meal next door with a beer at the pub.

Explore a little further with visits to King City, Canada’s southernmost town, or larger cities such as Windsor .

Get A Taste Of The Caribbean At North Beach Provincial Park

Imagine a white sand dune-covered strip of land stuck between two beautiful bodies of water. Teal-blue water as bright as a Jamaican beach on one side, warm, fresh water on the other.

Nope, this isn’t in the Caribbean. This is North Beach Provincial Park in Prince Edward County , Ontario. Not only is North Beach considered one of the best beaches in Ontario , but it’s almost unknown by anyone except locals of “The County.”

Most beach lovers heading to Prince Edward County make a bee-line for the popular Sandbanks Provincial Park . But that leaves the dramatic North Beach, just a little further southwest, free for the taking. The park has bathroom facilities and even a concession stand for those who don’t bring their own food.

What to Do Near North Beach, Provincial Park

There are loads of things to do in Prince Edward County when you aren’t enjoying the beach. Take a Prince Edward County Wine Tour and get a taste of some of the flavours of the region. Or take a walk around Lake on the Mountain .

This unique spot is as beautiful as it is unusual. Prince Edward County is also a great place for a romantic getaway in Ontario . Check out a local spa for some relaxation , or visit small towns like Bloomfield and do some antiquing.

Walk Through Time at the Oldest Rail Tunnel In Canada

Opened in 1860, the Brockville Rail Tunnel was the first rail tunnel to be completed in Canada. Since then, it has established itself as one of the coolest and most unique places to visit in Ontario.

This has been helped by a modern light and sound installation that makes visitors feel like they’re stepping through time as they explore the fascinating world beneath the earth.

Located in the city of Brockville, Ontario, along the shores of the St. Lawrence River, a visit to the Brockville Rail Tunnel is just one of the many amazing things to do in Brockville .

What to Do Near the Brockville Rail Tunnel

Brockville has some incredible attractions to experience. Try SCUBA diving among the dozens of local shipwrecks or through the underwater sculpture museum. Or, drive along the Loyalist Parkway to the nearby Upper Canada Village, where you can experience a turn-of-the-century Ontario town re-enacted in real-time.

Six Nations, Ontario Longhouse

Located in the Six Nations Community just outside of Brantford, Ontario , the Osttc: Longhouse invites visitors to explore 10,000 years of history of the Haudenosaunee People, from ancient to modern, in one of the most important buildings of their culture.

Throughout the experience, you’ll learn about agricultural practices, art, and lifestyle, as well as the hard work of re-establishing traditional Carolinian plants that have been cleared from the area.

What To Do Near The Six Nations Longhouse

Six Nations Ontario is an amazing community full of incredible attractions. Don’t miss a visit to nearby Chiefswood Park , home to the legendary poetess E. Pauline Johnson. You might also want to make a quick trip to Brantford to explore the oldest church in Canada , the gorgeous Mohawk Chapel.

Explore Dozens Of Waterfalls In Hamilton

A truly unique natural wonder, the waterfalls in Hamilton, Ontario boast an exceptional concentration of over 100 waterfalls within easy reach of one another. This makes it one of the best places in Ontario for waterfall enthusiasts.

The accessibility of the city’s vast waterfall network is unparalleled. Most of these stunning cascades are easily reached by trails and viewing platforms, offering visitors breathtaking views and Instagrammable photo opportunities.

The diverse and remarkable waterfalls range from smaller picturesque ones like Tiffany Falls to the 30-meter-tall, mighty Webster’s Falls.

What to do near The Hamilton Waterfalls

Make Visitors Inn your home base when visiting Hamilton. Visitors Inn is a welcoming hotel with comfortable accommodations and excellent service.

With an impressive collection of Canadian and international artwork, explore the vibrant art scene by touring the Art Gallery of Hamilton . The city is also home to the Royal Botanical Gardens, where nature enthusiasts can lose themselves through beautiful gardens, hike trails, and even enjoy a treetop walkway .

For something a little different, the Canadian Warplane Heritage Museum showcases its awe-inspiring collection of vintage aircraft,  allowing visitors to learn about Canada’s aviation history.

Bonnechere Caves, Eganville

Both Captivating and one-of-a-kind, Bonnechere Caves is one of Ontario’s most fascinating places to visit.

Bonnechere Caves offers adventurers an extraordinary underground experience. These ancient  500 million-year-old caves made of limestone are in Eganville, Ontario and are packed with stunning natural formations such as stalactites, stalagmites, and flowstones.

On top of its natural beauty, the caves serve as an archaeological site. Journey through time and witness history as evidence dating back thousands of years proving indigenous habitation.

Things to do near Bonnechere Caves

Conveniently located in Renfrew, Ontario, Days Inn by Wyndham Renfrew is a comfortable hotel that’s a short 30-minute drive from Bonnechere Caves.

The surrounding area offers a range of activities for nature enthusiasts to enjoy. Explore Bonnechere Provincial Park. This gorgeous park provides opportunities for hiking, camping, canoeing, and wildlife viewing. 

For those who love paddling, the Madawaska River allows visitors the opportunity to canoe, kayak, and fish. T he Bonnechere Museum lets you delve into the local heritage by showcasing artifacts and exhibits related to Bonnechere’s historic past.

Cheltenham Badlands, Caledon

The Cheltenham Badlands is a truly unique and captivating destination that attracts visitors from all over Ontario. With its unique red and white marbled clay, this geological wonder showcases a rare formation of exposed red shale and sandstone hills.

Its striking appearance, resembling an otherworldly Martian landscape, stands out dramatically from the low-lying forests that surround it.

Exploring the Badlands offers a chance to witness the power of nature and learn about the area’s geological history, making it an unparalleled experience for nature enthusiasts, photographers, and anyone seeking an unforgettable adventure.

Things to do near the Cheltenham Badlands

The Cheltenham Badlands sit between the cities of Orangeville , and Brampton along a quiet country road. While you’re in the area, consider a stay at

Mount Alverno Luxury Resorts in Caledon is a premier destination for indulgent relaxation and upscale accommodations.

A visit to the Cheltenham Badlands takes just over an hour. There are several exciting activities to fill your day.

Begin by exploring the nearby Forks of the Credit Provincial Park, where you can hike along picturesque trails, discover scenic waterfalls, and even go fishing in the Credit River.

For history buffs, a visit to the Alton Mill Arts Centre is a must, featuring art galleries, studios, and a rich heritage. Additionally, take a short drive to the charming village of Caledon, where you can enjoy local cuisine, browse boutique shops, and immerse yourself in the relaxed small-town atmosphere.

Finally, nature lovers can venture to the Belfountain Conservation Area, known for its beautiful gardens, hiking trails, and the stunning Belfountain Falls.

Other Unique Places You’ll Never Believe Are In Ontario

• Grand River Tubing, Kitchener
• Kingston Shipwrecks, Kingston
• Dynamic Earth, Sudbury
• Elora Quarry, Elora
• Eagles Nest, Bancroft
• Tallest Inukshuk, Schomburg
• Balaklava Ghost town, Balaklava

Now It’s Time to Experience These Unique Places in Ontario For Yourself!

There loads of unique places to visit throughout Ontario. While each one offers a distinct glimpse into one aspect of the province, they all come together to show just how wonderful and special Ontario truly is.

Many of these businesses and restaurants are anxious for visitors after a tough year. So let’s support local and make the most of your Ontario glamping experience.

Do you have a favourite place to visit in Ontario? Head over to the  Ultimate Ontario Facebook Community  and join the conversation! You’ll find an amazing group of people passionate about Ontario and who love to share their local secrets.

Kevin Wagar is a founder and editor of Ultimate Ontario. He has been working in the travel media industry since 2015 when he founded his family travel website Wandering Wagars – Adventure Family Travel . Over the years Kevin has developed a deep love for his home province of Ontario and aims to showcase the incredible experiences and amazing small businesses found within it.

Thursday 19th of May 2022

Really great ideas! Thank you!

Christopher Mitchell

Saturday 21st of May 2022

You're very welcome!

Thursday 12th of August 2021

Great post. I never heard of several of these locations.

Steffen Wiehr

Friday 19th of March 2021

It's North Beach Provincial Park.

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

• April 12, 2023
• Sandy Waters

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

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

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

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

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

Best Places To Visit In Ontario

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

Ontario Architecture

1) cn tower.

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

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

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

2) Casa Loma

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

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

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

3) Parliament Hill

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

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

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

4) Distillery District

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

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

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

Natural wonders

5) flowerpot island.

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

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

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

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

6) Horseshoe falls

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

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

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

7) Magnetawan river

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

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

8) French river

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

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

9) 1,000 islands

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

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

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

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

10) Hamilton waterfalls

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

Check out this amazing Hamilton Waterfalls Guide from Tourism Hamilton .

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

11) Cheltenham badlands

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

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

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

12) Kakabeka falls

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

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

Source |  CC BY-SA 3.0

13) Rockwood conservation

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

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

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

Ontario Culture

14) toronto’s chinatown.

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

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

15) Theatre in Stratford

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

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

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

16) Wiarton Willie

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

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

17) The Big Nickel

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

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

18) Royal Ontario Museum

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

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

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

Get your tickets here

19) Bridle Path

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

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

20) Art Gallery of Ontario

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

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

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

21) Canadian Automotive Museum

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

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

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

22) Kitchener-Waterloo Oktoberfest

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

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

23) Hockey Hall of Fame

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

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

It is located downtown Toronto and accessible by public transportation.

24) Canadian Forces Museum of Aerospace Defense

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

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

25) Canada’s Wonderland

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

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

26) Ontario Science Centre

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

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

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

27) Calypso Waterpark

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

Check out Calypso to enjoy:

• Water slides
• Lazy rivers
• Kids splash area

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

28) Eagle Canyon

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

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

29) Ctrl V – Virtual Reality Arcade

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

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

Hotels and spas

30) ste. anne’s spa.

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

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

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

31) Blue Mountain Resort

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

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

Winter activities include:

• Snowboarding
• Snowshoeing
• Cross-country skiing

and, summer activities include:

• Downhill biking

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

32) Elora Mill Hotel and Spa

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

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

Book your trip here

33) Shangri-La Hotel

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

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

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

35) Hotel X

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

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

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

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

35) Fairmont Chateau Laurier

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

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

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

Food and drink

36) wayne gretzky estates.

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

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

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

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

37) Dinner at Canoe

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

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

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

38) Peller Estates

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

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

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

39) Labatt Brewery Tour

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

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

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

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

40) Steam Whistle Brewery Tour

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

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

41) Lunch at Supply & Demand

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

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

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

42) Dinner at Langdon Hall

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

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

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

43) Glen Abbey Golf

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

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

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

44) TPC Toronto at Osprey Valley

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

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

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

45) Hamilton Golf Club

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

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

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

46) Cobble Beach

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

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

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

Tour a University Campus

47) university of toronto.

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

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

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

48) Richard Ivey Building at Western University

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

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

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

49) Osgoode Hall

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

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

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

50) University of Ottawa

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

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

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

Sporting events

51) hockey – ottawa senators.

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

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

52) Canadian Football – Hamilton Tiger-Cats

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

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

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

53) Basketball – Toronto Raptors

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

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

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

54) Soccer (Football) – Toronto FC

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

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

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

55) Baseball – Toronto Blue Jays

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

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

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

Places To Visit In Summer

56) spend time at the lake.

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

Check out some of the top luxury Muskoka resorts here

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

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

57) Visit Toronto Island

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

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

58) Tour Niagara-On-The-Lake

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

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

59) Andrews Scenic Acres

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

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

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

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

60) Grand Bend

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

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

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

61) Canatara Beach

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

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

62) Wasaga Beach

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

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

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

63) Go For a Bike Ride

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

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

64) Canoe trip

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

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

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

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

Places To Visit In Winter

65) skate on the rideau canal.

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

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

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

66) Ski at Mount St. Louis Moonstone

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

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

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

67) See The Northern Lights

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

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

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

68) Festival of Lights

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

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

Ontario Parks

69) algonquin park.

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

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

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

There is even a direct bus shuttle from Toronto .

70) Killarney Park

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

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

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

71) Bruce Peninsula National Park

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

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

72) Montebello Park

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

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

73) Budweiser Stage

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

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

74) Rebel Nightclub

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

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

75) Boots and Hearts

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

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

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

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

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

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

– theBOO

Table of Contents

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

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

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

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

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

Things to Do in Ontario, Canada

1. horseshoe falls.

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

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

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

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

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

2. Rideau Canal

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

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

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

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

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

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

3. Royal Ontario Museum

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

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

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

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

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

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

4. Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada

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

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

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

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

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

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

5. Algonquin Provincial Park

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

6. National Gallery of Canada

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

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

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

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

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

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

7. Niagara Parks Butterfly Conservatory

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

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

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

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

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

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

8. Art Gallery of Ontario

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

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

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

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

Free admission is offered on Wednesday evenings.

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

9. Hockey Hall of Fame

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

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

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

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

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

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

10. Bruce Peninsula National Park

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

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

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

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

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

11. St Lawrence Market South

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

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

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

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

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

12. Toronto Zoo

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

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

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

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

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

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

13. LA Tour CN Tower

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

14. Skylon Tower

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

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

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

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

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

15. Toronto Eaton Centre

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

16. Distillery District

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

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

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

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

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

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

17. Silence

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

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

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

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

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

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

18. Toronto Islands

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

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

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

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

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

19. Georgian Bay

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

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

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

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

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

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

20. Canada’s Wonderland

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

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

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

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

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

21. Casa Loma

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

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

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

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

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

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

22. EdgeWalk at the CN Tower

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

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

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

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

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

23. Blue Mountain Resort

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

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

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

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

It’s all fun here, anytime!

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

24. Flowerpot Island

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

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

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

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

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

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

25. Kensington Market

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

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

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

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

Address: Spadina Avenue, Toronto, Ontario, Canada

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

Plan Your Trip to Ontario

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

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

Start planning your trip to Ontario!

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• 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

18 Hidden Gems & Secret Spots in Ontario You Need to Visit

Do you want to get off the beaten track? Ontario provides plenty of options that don’t require international flights or expensive itineraries. This list of hidden gems and secret spots throughout Northern Ontario includes something for everyone, from adventurous families seeking fun attractions to couples looking for unique places to stay—all with serious wow factors! Get ready to discover the Ontario attractions you never knew existed.

Fort William Historical Park, Thunder Bay

Visiting Fort William Historical Park in Thunder Bay is like stepping back in time and being suddenly immersed in the hustle and bustle of the Canadian fur trade, 200 years ago. Located at what came to be known as the Lakehead, Fort William was once a meeting place for colourful voyageurs and Indigenous trappers. Today, this family-friendly attraction features in-character interpreters and facilities—including a great hall, canoe-building shop, and doctor’s office—that recreate the historic fur trade post that was once at the centre of the Canadian economy.

Norm’s Cabin, Goulais River

Looking to get away from it all? You won’t find a retreat more idyllic than Norm’s Cabin , tucked away in the Precambrian hills of the Algoma Highlands, north of Sault Ste. Marie. This trail-access, off-grid retreat is located on quiet Bone Lake, with immediate access to a huge network of mountain biking and hiking trails. Norm’s is popular for couples, families and getaways with close friends. Contact Blaq Bear Tours to plan your stay.

Bushplane Museum and Entomica, Sault Ste. Marie

The Canadian Bushplane Heritage Centre in downtown Sault Ste. Marie attracts flight enthusiasts from all around the world for its huge collection of historic aircraft, with a special focus on the history of aviation in the Canadian wilderness. There’s something for everyone at the Bushplane Museum, including family-friendly interactive displays that put you in the pilot’s seat. What’s more, the former hangar is also home to Entomica , an award-winning insectarium that gives you the opportunity to encounter (and touch!) many types of colourful and sometimes creepy bugs. The Northern Superior Tap Room , located next door, offers local beers and pub fare with a large outdoor patio near the St. Marys River waterfront.

Kivi Park, Sudbury

Sudbury is recognized as an outdoor hub because of attractions like Kivi Park , an all-season destination for mountain biking, hiking, paddling, and cross-country skiing, located minutes from the city centre on Long Lake. This 480-acre green space takes advantage of rugged Canadian Shield and boreal forest terrain, offering something for everyone including on-site bike, SUP, kayak, and canoe rentals.

Canadian Ecology Centre, Mattawa

The Canadian Ecology Centre specializes in year-round outdoor education. Combined with 32 rental cabins, it makes for a fantastic destination for a learning vacation for curious and adventurous families. Book a cabin in the woods and explore the on-site trails; facilities are located next door to Samuel de Champlain Provincial Park , where you can enjoy the Mattawa River waterfront or rent a canoe to paddle this Canadian Heritage waterway.

Recollet Falls Trail, French River

The French River has always been a waterway for travellers, and today it marks the beginning of Northern Ontario. This waterway, bisected by Highway 69 between Parry Sound and Sudbury, has a rich history as an indigenous canoe route and a key link in the “voyageurs’ highway” of the Canadian fur trade. The French River Visitor Centre is a great spot to stop and gain a greater appreciation of the area’s history. Better yet, take 90 minutes and stretch your legs on the easy 4-km hiking trail to Recollet Falls.

Wawa Beaches

Few Ontario towns can match the adventure potential of Wawa , a small community just northeast of Lake Superior. Wawa has two family-friendly beaches right next to downtown on Wawa Lake. Meanwhile, Sandy Beach , located 10 minutes out of town on Michipicoten Bay, is certainly one of Ontario’s finest for its amazing Lake Superior vista. Walk a kilometre of shifting sand and enjoy Lake Superior’s changing moods; some days the water is warm and swimmable, other times it’s angry and rough. A gourmet dinner at Kinniwabi Pines Restaurant is a great way to wrap up a sunny day at the beach.

Nipigon Recreational Trail

One of the finest day hikes north of Lake Superior stretches 10-km between the communities of Nipigon and Red Rock, about an hour’s drive east of Thunder Bay. The Nipigon River Recreational Trail provides a great introduction to the rugged boreal forest landscape of northwestern Ontario, with steep climbs in dense, rocky woods. You’ll also enjoy outstanding views of the islands and open waters of the Lake Superior National Marine Conservation Area . A flat, easy section traces the shores of the Nipigon River, providing great opportunities to view shorebirds and waterfowl, as well as boreal songbirds. Finish your hike at Ducky’s Diner , which offers home-cooked meals and a fun and friendly dining experience in Nipigon.

Ouimet Canyon

Northwestern Ontario’s “Grand Canyon” is a stunning sight that’s a true hidden gem. The Ouimet Canyon is a 100-meter-deep rift in the Canadian Shield, with its own unique community of arctic vegetation (remnants of the Ice Age). What’s more, this is a family-friendly destination, featuring a one-kilometre loop trail to the rim of the 150-metre-wide canyon and great opportunities for birdwatchers, especially during the migration periods of spring and fall. Reach the day-use park from Highway 17, just east of Thunder Bay.

Carden Cove, Marathon

This secluded beach on Lake Superior in Marathon, midway between Sault Ste. Marie and Thunder Bay and a short drive off of Highway 17, features great views of some of the prettiest coastline on the Great Lakes. Carden Cove also serves an access point along the Lake Superior Water Trail segment of the Trans Canada Trail with a sheltered launch for sea kayakers. You’ll also find short hiking trails in the area radiating out to other pristine beaches.

Boom Camp Trails, Blind River

Blind River’s Boom Camp is a great natural space in Blind River with wetlands, rocky ridges, and tall pines, overlaid by a tapestry of easy trails for hiking (and groomed for cross-country skiing in the winter). Discover Blind River ’s rich logging history as you walk an interpretive trail to the mouth of the Mississagi River, featuring an impressive sand beach and excellent swimming on Lake Huron. The trailhead is accessed from Highway 17, just west of the town centre.

Casque Isles Trail and Slate Islands, Terrace Bay

Terrace Bay is home to a brand-new visitor centre for the Lake Superior National Marine Conservation Area . The town’s marina at the mouth of the Aguasabon River is set on an immense sand beach that serves as the eastern terminus of the Casque Isles hiking trail . This 50-km trail has options for long-distance backpackers and day hikers alike. From the marina you can take an easy stroll to view the cascades of the Aguasabon gorge. Terrace Bay is perched on a steep shoreline with long views to the Slate Islands —a remote provincial park and popular destination for advanced sea kayakers—about 10 km offshore. Novice paddlers can experience the Slates on a guided trip with SAND Adventures or Naturally Superior Adventures .

Manitoulin Eco-Park, Manitoulin Island

Manitoulin Island is a unique vacation destination easily accessible by ferry from Tobermory. The island is especially popular among cyclists who come to ride the quiet back roads. Families will enjoy a stay at Manitoulin Eco Park , which provides campsites for tents and trailers, as well as bunkie and tipi rentals. The park is part of a Dark Sky Preserve with some of the finest stargazing in the province and offers a great base camp for visiting Manitoulin’s other attractions .

WildExodus Glamping, Timmins

Timmins is a decidedly vibrant Northern Ontario community with plenty of attractions. You can get a sense of the city’s rugged wilderness surroundings with WildExodus . This local outfitter offers a wide range of services, including glamping and yurt accommodations (with gourmet dining) on the shores of Kenogamissi Lake, as well as paddling, hiking, and fishing tours in the boreal forest.

Fort St. Joseph

There are plenty of reasons to visit St. Joseph Island, located on Lake Huron’s North Channel, about an hour’s drive east of Sault Ste. Marie. Fort St. Joseph National Historic Site is a lesser-known destination with walking trails, excellent birding (with the opportunity to see more than 200 species ), historical reenactments of the War of 1812 and sweeping views of Lake Huron. Maria’s Cabins offers waterfront vacation rentals.

Lake of the Woods Houseboating

There’s no better way to explore the numberless islands and inlets of Lake of the Woods than on a multi-day houseboat vacation with family and friends. Houseboats are popular among anglers and provide paddlers with the opportunity to bring along SUPs or kayaks for closer encounters with boreal forest shores. You’ll find plenty of options for houseboat rentals in Kenora , a vibrant waterfront community in Northwestern Ontario’s Sunset Country. Book your trip with Houseboat Adventures or Lake Life Houseboats .

Cochrane Polar Bear Museum

It’s fitting that one of Ontario’s northernmost road-accessible communities features a distinctly arctic attraction. Located near Highway 11, several hours north of North Bay, Cochrane’s Polar Bear Habitat includes three resident (rescued) polar bears and exhibits to learn more about their biology and role in the Far North ecosystems of James and Hudson Bays. The historic Ontario Northland Station Inn makes a great place to spend a night.

Deer Trail, Elliot Lake

The Deer Trail Touring Route is a scenic 120-km drive on paved secondary highways 546, 639 and 108, between Sudbury and Sault Ste. Marie. This stunning route boasts the same great scenery and hills of more popular drives like Algonquin Park’s Highway 60, but with a fraction of the visitors. Elliot Lake is the main community en route and you’ll find quiet camping, hiking and paddling at Mississagi Provincial Park . For upscale accommodations check out Laurentian Lodge , a great base camp for couples, outdoor photographers and adventurous families on Flack Lake.

Visit These Seldom-Seen Ontario Gems

As you can see, there’s infinitely more to Ontario than Algonquin Park, Toronto, the National Capital, and Niagara Falls. This list of Ontario’s hidden gems is only the beginning. Pack your bags and hit the road to discover all of the province’s secret destinations for outdoor experiences.

Find campgrounds for your next trip to Northeastern Ontario

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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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33 Best Weekend Getaways in Ontario, Canada

Written By: ThePlanetD Team

Updated On: February 19, 2024

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

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

Table of Contents

Weekend Getaways in Ontario

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

Cities and Towns

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

3. Prince Edward County

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

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

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

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

4. Niagara on the Lake

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

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

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

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

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

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

5. Niagara Falls Getaway

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

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

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

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

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

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

6. Grand Bend

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

8. Kingston

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Wine Region Weekend Getaways in Ontario

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

10. Lake Erie North Shore

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

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

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

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

11. The Niagara Peninsula

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

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

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

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

12. Hamilton’s Region of the Niagara Escarpment

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

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

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

Resort Weekend Getaways in Ontario

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

13. Sir Sam’s Inn and Spa

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

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

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

14. Fern Resort

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

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

15. Couples Resort

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

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

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

16. Deerhurst Resort

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

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

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

17. Cedar Grove Lodge

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

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

18. Severn Lodge

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

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

18. Idlewyld Inn and Spa

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

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

19. Langdon Hall – Cambridge

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

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

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

Part 4 – Family Getaways in Ontario

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

20. Blue Mountain Ski Resort

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

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

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

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

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

21. Great Wolf Lodge Water Park Resort

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

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

22. Collingwood

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

Best accommodation option in Collingwood

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

23. Hamilton

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

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

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

24. Peterborough

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

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

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

25. Sauble Beach

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

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

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

Part 5 – Outdoor Weekend Getaways in Ontario

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

26. Algonquin Provincial Park

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

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

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

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

27. Sandbanks Provincial Park

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

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

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

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

28. Pinery Provincial Park

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

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

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

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

29. French River Provincial Park

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

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

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

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

Best accommodation option in French River Provincial Park

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

30. Batchawana Bay Provincial Park

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

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

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

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

31. Bruce Peninsula National Park

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

32. Pukaskwa National Park

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Travel Planning Resources

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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The Early Bird, London | Destination Ontario

• Family activities

Fun attractions, amusement parks, historic sites and museums are guaranteed to entertain and educate kids of all ages. Ontario’s year-round resorts, lodges and playgrounds provide families with a range of outdoor activities and kid-friendly programs.

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

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Amusement parks

Animal parks and aquariums

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A quick guide to family activities in ontario, attractions ontario.

Search the extensive list of different kinds of attractions, get road trip ideas and save with seasonal discounts with Attractions Ontario , your guide to kid-friendly fun in Ontario.

Resorts of Ontario

Find the perfect kid-approved adventure for your next family vacation. Resorts of Ontario offers great getaway ideas and packages to some of the best cottage and resorts accommodations, along with activities and attractions catered to families.

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Find inspiration with stories about family activities in Ontario.

Exciting adventures for thrill-seeking families

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Where to go river tubing in Ontario

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Top escape rooms in Ontario

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Family-friendly city ice skating rinks and trails

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Cool off at Ontario water parks this summer

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Alpaca farms in Ontario

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5 top amusement parks near Toronto

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Santa Claus parades in Ontario 2023

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Where to go apple picking in Ontario

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Holiday light festivals in Ontario 2023

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All aboard Ontario’s holiday and Santa train rides 2023

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Local’s guide to Clifton Hill

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15 great things to do with kids in Ontario

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Fun places to stay in Ontario for kids

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Family-friendly zoos and butterfly conservatories to visit

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Wildlife viewing in Ontario

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Holiday family getaways in Ontario

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Summer fun for water-loving families

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Renaissance faires and medieval attractions in Ontario

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Tips for planning your trip to the CNE 2023

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Top winter festivals in Ontario

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Best places in Ontario to celebrate New Year's Eve

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Ontario summer getaway ideas for families

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Things to do on Family Day 2024 in Ontario

• Read more Things to do on Family Day 2024 in Ontario

Family winter getaways in Ontario

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Experience Ontario’s fall fairs

• Read more Experience Ontario’s fall fairs

Turn back the clock with fun retro activities

• Read more Turn back the clock with fun retro activities

Kid-friendly castles, forts and historical jails in Ontario

• Read more Kid-friendly castles, forts and historical jails in Ontario

Animal sanctuaries in Ontario

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Family-friendly Ontario restaurants that kids and parents will enjoy

• Read more Family-friendly Ontario restaurants that kids and parents will enjoy

Insider tips for visiting Niagara Falls, Ontario

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Visit Ontario’s indoor water parks this winter

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Top amusement parks near Ottawa

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Fun March Break activities in Ontario 2024

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Halloween events for kids in Ontario

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Pumpkin patches and farms in Ontario

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Heritage railway tours and train museums

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Ultimate family game night experiences

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Inclusive and accessible family experiences in Ontario

• Read more Inclusive and accessible family experiences in Ontario

Guide to visit Ripley's Aquarium of Canada

• Read more Guide to visit Ripley's Aquarium of Canada

Ziplining, treetop trekking and aerial adventure parks in Ontario

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Family-friendly city beaches in Ontario

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Family Easter fun in Ontario

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Visit these interactive science museums in Ontario

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Family winter resorts and snow parks in Ontario

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Family-friendly highlights

Clifton Hill

Niagara SkyWheel

African Lion Safari

Storybook Gardens

Niagara Parks Power Station

Sainte-Marie Among the Hurons

Barking Goat Farms

Know before you go

Be sure to call ahead and ensure everything on your wish list is open. Book ahead as many attractions and experiences require reservations.

Public health updates

Looking for the most up-to-date public health updates for Ontario? 

Last updated:  March 21, 2024

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