A renowned Canadian Province, Ontario is a wonderful destination dotted with evergreen forests, provincial parks, and wetlands. Along with being home to the world-famous Niagara Falls, there are bountiful small towns in Ontario that draw vacationers, and leisure travellers from all walks of life. Whether you want to indulge in the essence of the bygone era of Canada or want to witness its wonderful natural diversity, these tiny escapes ought to explore your next Canadian vacation. Gear up and pack your bags, as we embark on a captivating visual journey of these small towns.
Small Towns In Ontario
From Niagara-On-The-Lake to Almonte, there are countless small towns in Ontario that capture the attention of nature lovers and thrill seekers from all over the world. Join us on this visual tour where we unveil the secrets of these wonderful tiny escapes.
1. Niagara-On-The-Lake
Perched on the Niagara Peninsula, Niagara-On-The-Lake is one of the best small towns in Ontario that boasts numerous parks, nature reserves, and trails. The town welcomes visitors from far and wide to witness its charming downtown area complemented by natural surroundings. Recognized as the most happening town in Canada, Niagara-On-The-Lake features plenty of cultural and recreational facilities that capture the attention of theatre admirers and golfers. The two must-visit places in this spectacular town include the Shaw Festival Theatre and Niagara-on-the-Lake Golf Club. Moreover, don’t miss to explore historic homes, restaurants and boutique shops lining the local streets of the town and offer a mesmerising experience to all the visitors. The best time to visit Niagara-On-The-Lake is during the Niagara Icewine Festival which is a great crowd-puller event.
Location: Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ontario, Canada
Places To Visit: Konzelmann Estate Winery, Shaw Festival Theatre, Queen’s Royal Park
Places To Stay: Prince of Wales, Queens Landing, Best Western Colonel Butler Inn
Must Read: 10 Luxurious Villas In Canada
2. Huntsville
Featuring amusement parks for adventure enthusiasts and a flourishing arts scene for art admirers, Huntsville is one of the most beautiful small towns in Ontario packed with wonderful surprises for all. Arrowhead Provincial Park is one of the major attractions of the town that offers a delightful escape to spend a mesmerising time a little close to nature. Flaunting breathtaking vistas, and scenic lookouts, Hardy Lake Provincial Park is also located in Huntsville and draws locals and tourists to witness the essence of mother nature at its most vibrant. The town also boasts numerous cafes and food courts worth exploring and treat yourself to scrumptious meals.
Location: Huntsville, Ontario, Canada
Places To Visit: Huntsville Botanical Garden, Big Spring International Park, Burritt on the Mountain
Places To Stay: Deerhurst Resort, Motel 6, Best Western Plus Muskoka Inn, Holiday Inn Express & Suites
3. Stratford
Herald as an art and cultural centre, Stratford is one of the best small towns in Ontario which is no less than a paradise for art enthusiasts. The town Invites guests from far and wide to attend the Stratford Festival, plays of William Shakespeare and other contemporary dramas since 1953 and experience an amazing time full of entertainment. Packed with walkable streets, boutique shops, restaurants, and cafes, Stratford is one of the most lively towns in Canada, also home to Avon River, and Shakespeare Gardens.
Location: Stratford, Ontario, Canada
Places To Visit: Avon Theatre, Stratford Perth Museum, Shakespearean Gardens
Places To Stay: Best Western PLUS The Arden Park Hotel, Quality Inn & Conference Centre Festival, The Parlour Inn Ascend Hotel Collection
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4. Picton
Known as one of the best small towns in Ontario for families, Picton is located in the Prince Edward Country in Southeastern Ontario. Dotted with countless historic buildings, bustling street shops, and townhills, Picton is one of the vibrant towns of Canada that welcomes visitors to immerse themselves in an incredible experience. Enjoying mesmerising vistas of Hill Park, strolling around the local markets, as well as dazzling nighttime in the Old Cobourg Jail are among the amazing things to do in Picton. While exhibiting the region’s historic charm, Picton is a must-visit small town to explore during your Ontario excursion.
Location: Picton, Prince Edward, ON K0K 2T0, Canada
Places To Visit: Sandbanks Provincial Park, Birdhouse City, Sandbanks Dunes Beach
Places To Stay: The June Motel, Cribs on Main, The Waring House
5. Grand Bend
One of the wonderful small towns in Ontario to visit in summer is Grand Bend which captures the attention of locals and tourists alike to immerse in sandy beach vibes. Home to Lake Huron, this vibrant town boasts picturesque landscapes, outdoor adventures, bustling streets, fine restaurants and countless shops. A perfect place to witness a mesmerising sunrise and sunset on the Caribbean blue waters coast, as well as enjoy local wineries for a delightful sipping experience. Indulge in the scenic retreat of Ontario and spend a majestic time amidst sun, sand and serenity in Grand Bend.
Location: Grand Bend, Ontario, Canada
Places To Visit: Huron Country Playhouse, Pinery Provincial Park, Grand Bend Beach
Places To Stay: Colonial Hotel & Suites, Blue Coral Peaceful Cottage Getaway, Cozy Grand Bend Cottage with Bunkie
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6. Fergus
Embracing Scottish heritage, Fergus is one of the enchanting small towns in Ontario packed with countless parks, historic buildings, trails and natural reserves. Along with flaunting its unspoiled natural beauty, the place also boasts numerous cultural and recreational facilities drawing the attention of local farmers and artisans to promote and sell their goods. Two of the most amazing places that you cannot slip away from your itinerary are Fergus Grand Theatre and Fergus Marketplace. The best time to witness the bustling aura of this town is during the Fergus Scottish Festival and the Fergus Truck Show.
Location: Fergus, Ontario, Canada
Places To Visit: Pierpoint Park, Templin Gardens, Confederation Park
Places To Stay: Luxurious Haven, Evening Shade, Fergus Deluxe Basement
7. Midland
Flaunting its historic charm, Midland is one of the must-visit small towns in Ontario that exhibits over 30 mural paintings showcasing the region’s long history. Drawing the attention of tourists with the Midland Butter Tart Festival, the town is a vital part of the Southern Georgian Bay area. One of the wonderful historical sites in Midland is Sainte-Marie which highlights the settlement of 17th-century French Jesuit mission. Another ancient gem that you can explore in Midland is the Huronia Museum which represents the replica of a ‘pre-contact’ of Ouendat village. Hailed as one of the best small towns to live in Ontario, Midland also offers a gateway to the Georgian Bay Biosphere Reserve.
Location: Midland, Ontario, Canada
Places To Visit: Sainte-Marie, Midland Cultural Centre, Martyrs’ Shrine, Royal Ontario Museum
Places To Stay: Midland Inn & Suites, Super 8 by Wyndham, Knights Inn – Park Villa Motel
Suggested Read: Summer In Canada
8. Almonte
Among Ontario’s most glorious small towns, Almonte is a historic town packed with several cafes, shops and restaurants. The town’s main attraction is the Mississippi River and its waterfall, which offers a perfect escape in the lap of nature. With the paved trails and boardwalk beside it, the place is a perfect spot to spend a mesmerising time with your family and friends and enjoy the charming scenery of nature. Another attraction of the town is Metcalfe Geoheritage Park exhibiting 22 rocks highlighting the geological history of the Eastern Ontario region. This place is no less than a paradise for history buffs and curious minds.
Location: Almonte, Mississippi Mills, ON, Canada
Places To Visit: Mississippi Valley Textile Museum, Almonte Old Town Hall, Metcalfe Geoheritage Park
Places To Stay: Comfort Inn & Suites, 7 West Motel, Cheerful Waterfront
Further Read: Canada In September
Ontario, also referred to as mineral-rich Canadian Shield has so much to offer when it comes to a mesmerising vacation. On your next trip to Canada, don’t let these small towns in Ontario slide away from your itinerary. Let the travelling soul of yours get a delightful retreat amidst these tiny escapes!
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Frequently Asked Questions About Small Towns In Ontario
Which is the smallest town in Ontario?
Some of the small towns that you must visit during your Ontario trip are:
- Goderich
- Grand Bend
- Kingston
- Smiths Falls
- Thunder Bay
- Bracebridge
- Elora
What is the must-try food in Ontario?
During your trip to Ontario, don’t miss out on savouring these delicacies:
- Maple Syrup
- Summer sausage
- Chocolate
- Butter tarts
- Canadian bacon
Which is the fastest-growing town in Ontario?
Carleton Place, which is known for its textile and lumber mills, is the fastest growing town in Ontario. Located near Ottawa, this bustling town has recorded a growth of 3.8% in previous years.
What is Ontario famous for?
Embracing the natural diversity, cultural charm and enchanting preserved parks, Ontario is a wonderful Canadian Province. It is also hailed as the country’s main economic hub. Apart from this, the place is home to five Great Lakes and Niagara Falls.
What are 3 interesting facts about Ontario?
Some of the wonderful facts about Ontario are as follows:
- Home to more than 250,000 lakes, this province is packed with astonishing and wonderful landscapes that attract nature admirers from far and wide to witness the jaw-dropping vistas in Canada.
- The loon is the official bird of Ontario and holds a special place in the heart of locals.
- Ontario boasts more than 50 thousand that yield approximately one-quarter of the nation’s farm revenue.
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