Whether you’re in the market to sip local wine, enjoy a sunset boat cruise, or get up close and personal with the Canadian wilderness, Ontario is full of places to visit for a weekend getaway. Of course, regions like Niagara, Prince Edward County, and Muskoka are filled with towns that have become familiar favourites for road trips. We know them, and we love them. But the province is also full of more relatively under-the-radar towns (some, technically villages or small cities) that are “yours to discover” for those in the market for some summertime road trip inspiration.
Here are 8 Ontario towns you need to check out
Paris
While the postcard-perfect town of Paris, Ontario is less flashy than the French city of the same name, its small-town vibe is all part of its appeal. The charming riverside town is known for its storied cobblestone buildings, open-air cafes, cheese shops, and award-wining fine dining restaurants. There are numerous opportunities for outdoor adventures, including hikes along a rail trail or exploring the rivers by kayak or canoe (bit if you go just for the food, that’s totally ok too). Find more information here.
Elora
Perhaps best known for its picturesque gorge – made famous by the tubing adventure it offers – the village of Elora is a must-see for nature lovers. The gorge features clean flowing water, limestone cliffs, and countless trees throughout. The town centre is coloured by century-old buildings that house everything from unique shops and restaurants to artists’ studios. Beer lovers will appreciate a brewery. Find more information here.
Port Hope
Just over an hour’s drive east (106km) of Toronto’s concrete is the alluring town of Port Hope. This spot offers the best of all worlds for a day or overnight trip this summer: a storybook feel thanks to a river that weaves through town and heritage buildings; a waterfront with nature trails and a sandy beach; farmers’ markets, and no shortage of quaint shops and restaurants. Find more information here.
Grand Bend
Set on the shores of Lake Huron, Grand Bend offers the type of beach town vibe you see in the movies – in the best way possible, especially for those who don’t take life too seriously. The town features an eclectic variety of breezy shops and restaurants. But the star of the show here is the incredible beach, the best spot to enjoy the region’s stunning National Geographic ranked sunsets. Find more information here.
Merrickville
In Eastern Ontario, the welcoming town of Merrickville is known as “The Jewel of the Rideau.” As its name suggests, the 19th-century village – much of which has been beautifully preserved – is located along the famous Rideau Canal. Here, you’ll get a lesson in history, as you explore the charming village’s shops, restaurants, art galleries, a beloved museum, and storied Victorian buildings. Find more information here.
Tobermory
Offering a distinct lakeside town appeal – complete with boats of all varieties, waterside restaurants, and magnificent sunsets – Tobermory is definitely worth the nearly four-hour drive northwest of Toronto. Known as one of the best scuba diving spots in Canada thanks to its crystal-blue water and shipwreck, Tobermory attracts adventure seekers with its numerous hiking trails and water activities. Find more information here.
Perth
Perhaps one of the most underrated and under-the-radar towns in Ontario. Located about an hour’s drive south of Ottawa, the town small offers a European vibe thanks to its architecture and slower pace. The charming spot houses everything from restaurants from celebrated chefs (like the Stone Cellar Restaurant from Chef Nick Valliquette) to homestyle bakeries and peaceful parks. Find more information here
Stratford
While Stratford – most famously known for its eponymous theatre festival and its homegrown superstar Justin Bieber – is technically a small city, it’s one that’s worth including, as it’s an often-overlooked road trip destination. Foodies will especially appreciate Stratford’s celebrated, hyper-local food and drink culture, something that’s reflected in everything from memorable restaurants and breweries to friendly farmers’ markets. Find more information here.
