Explore beyond the city skylines this summer, and make your way to small Ontario towns for a new adventure!
With more than 50 small towns and municipalities outside of the 6ix, you can expect a complete culture shock when you visit.
These areas are not only a peaceful getaway, but they will also teach you a thing or two about Canadian culture and the town’s significance in Canadian history.
Visit these seven Ontario municipalities for a mini trip out of the city this summer!
Elora
Drive less than two hours to visit the beautiful town of Elora, which is well-known for its 19th century limestone architecture, conservation areas, and their famous limestone gorge. This town is home to many local eateries and shops that will make you feel like you’re in a small village from a Disney film! Some must-see spots are the Elora Quarry, Victoria Park, and a walk through the Elora farmer’s market!
For more information, click here.
Grand Bend
In about a three hour drive from Toronto, you can visit the most vibrant beach town in Ontario, which has stunning blue waters and boardwalks to explore this summer! Here, you can enjoy playing water sports along Lake Huron, tasting foods from local restaurants, and spending some cash at their local shops. This town welcomes many visitors all summer, so it will be best to go earlier in the day or week days with less crowds.
For more information, click here.
Paris
No, you are not reading this wrong! There is in fact a Paris, Ontario, and it is one of the most beloved small towns in the province. Paris is home to tons of businesses to keep you entertained, fed, and pampered, from cute thrift stores to pet shops. If you hang around the downtown strip, you can experience the historical significance of Paris, traditional Canadian hospitality and friendliness, as well as tasting new food spots.
For more information, click here.
Niagara-on-the-Lake
Visit this popular small town for a day filled with scenic views, history lessons, entertainment, and amazing eats! Its deep historical ties to Canadian history during the War of 1812 adds to its charm of being a monumental Canadian site. If you’re not a history buff, no worries — this town also has a Victorian-style downtown area where you can explore local stores, such as Olde Tyme Candy Shop and Antiques on Creek. This town is made for wandering travellers, so you will find gems no matter where you go!
For more information, click here.
Stratford
This underrated city is also the birthplace of the Canadian global superstar, Justin Bieber! Just like its famous Stratford-born celebrity, the city is known for its musical productions and prominence in the arts and music scene. Every year from April to November, the city hosts the Stratford Festival, where a selection of your favourite plays like Macbeth, Annie, and Anne of Green Gables are performed at one of their theatres. If you are a theatre fan, this place is for you!
For more information, click here.
Bayfield
This coastal village is the perfect local getaway if you’re looking for a place more quiet and chill. With plenty of beaches to get your toes wet or hiking trails to get your steps in, Bayfield is the place for it. The vintage look of the village’s architecture creates a warm welcome for visitors, and will leave you feeling refreshed before you head back to the hustle and bustle of the city!
For more information, click here.
Goderich
Visit this beachtown, which was named Ontario’s prettiest town, for a trip to satisfy your Instagram feeds and your camera roll! This beautiful town is quite the drive from Toronto (four hours), but the journey will be worth it! You can visit famous spots like the Huron Historic Gaol (a former jail), the Goderich Lighthouse, and Cove Beach.
For more information, click here.
