Escaping the city noise and pollution to somewhere more peaceful is only a car ride away. It’s finally getting nice out and that means it’s time for summer road-trips. Visit all of these adorable towns to explore their individual charm.
Spend your weekends exploring what Ontario has to offer. Find cute boutiques, insta-worthy cafes, and delicious restaurants. Some of these spots might even make you feel like you’re in Europe!
1. Paris, Ontario
This town was voted “Ontario’s Prettiest Town,” lined with open-air cafes, delicious bakeries, cheese & candy shops. There are also an abundance of family and fine dining restaurants.
2. Almonte, Ontario
A scenic mill town with 19th-century vibes is located 45 minutes from Ottawa. Check out galleries, boutiques and antique shops on the main street, as well as cute restaurants and B&Bs along the river.
3. Elora, Ontario
Situated on the edge of a spectacular gorge and nestled along the banks of the Grand & Irvine River. Discover visual arts, upscale boutiques, natural beauty, architecture, culinary flavours, and diverse culture in Elora, Ontario.
4. Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ontario
This town sits on the shores of Lake Ontario, at the mouth of the Niagara River. It’s known for its wineries and the summer Shaw Festival.
5. Port Hope, Ontario
A heritage community that’s located on the north shore of Lake Ontario with both urban and rural vibes. Make sure to check out the Capitol Theatre and take a hike in Port Hope Conservation Area.
6. Picton, Ontario
Located in Prince Edward County, which is a must-visit in the summer filled with wineries, delicious food, and cute boutique hotels. Make sure you check out Sandbanks Provincial Park to see the sand dunes in person.
7. Port Stanley, Ontario
Located on the north shore of Lake Erie at the mouth of Kettle Creek, Port Stanley is an adorable beach town with one of the finest stretches of sandy beaches.
8. Cobourg, Ontario
From downtown foodie tours to haunted ghost walks to nature hikes – there’s the perfect getaway plan for everyone. It’s only a short car ride from Toronto!
9. Kleinburg, Ontario
Just north of Woodbridge, Kleinberg is an oasis for peace and serenity. Located in the Greater Toronto Area, with quaint stores, restaurants, and outdoor areas. Don’t miss out on visiting the prestigious McMichael Art Gallery.
10. Dundas, Ontario
Find quiet tree-lined streets, historic 19th-century buildings, restaurants, cafes, boutique shops and more, all nestled in the heart of picturesque Dundas Valley. Dundas is home to Tew’s Falls, Spencer Falls Conservation Area, McMaster Museum of Art, Dundurn Castle.
11. Blue Mountain Village, Ontario
Burrowed between the foot of the Niagara Escarpment’s scenic Blue Mountains and the rugged shores and crystal clear waters of Georgian Bay, this spot has events going on season-round. The town is lined with restaurants, hotels, shops and lots of outdoor dining.
12. Creemore, Ontario
A quaint southern Ontario town, dotted with galleries, specialty shops but mainly dominated by the Creemore Springs Brewery.
13. Goderich, Ontario
The town of Goderich combines small-town charm with world class amenities. There is much to see and do in this architecturally-rich port town which sits on the bluffs overlooking the shores of Lake Huron.
14. Unionville, Ontario
Main Street Unionville is a picturesque street lined with historic buildings, boutique shops, restaurants, spas, and salons. If you have a sweet tooth, you’ve got to check out the Old Firehall Confectionery, which is full of handmade goodies like truffles, macaroons, cookies, etc.
15. Merrickville, Ontario
For those going on day-trips, Merrickville has just about everything: lots of funky independent shops, nice cafés, and some interesting history. It’s perfect for cycling, paddling, hiking, and boating in the warmer months.
Featured Image: Instagram/@vintage_hotels
Which is your favourite town to visit in Ontario? Let us know in the comments!
Posts you Might be Interested in:
A Massive Floating Waterpark Is Going To Be Open This Summer
10 Magical Hiking Trails That Are An Easy Drive From Toronto
There’s a Brewery Coming To The Toronto Islands This Summer
The Coolest And Most Unique Place To Glamp In Ontario This Summer
10 Activities To Do With Your S/O In Toronto This Spring