10 Best Ontario Towns For A Weekend Trip
Between scenic waterfalls, mesmerizing metropolitan attractions, and lovely lakeside scenery, “The Heartland Province" is home to many destinations for a quick and memorable getaway. From the charming boutiques and world-famous wineries of Niagara-on-the-Lake to the historic lighthouses and captivating bridges of Goderich, each town offers its own type of magic you need to experience. Start planning your visit today as you discover the 10 best Ontario towns for a weekend trip.
Niagara-on-the-Lake
Welcome to Niagara-on-the-Lake, a dreamy destination for nature lovers and wine enthusiasts. Between renowned wineries like Konzelmann and Peller Estates with their mesmerizing countryside vistas, and quaint boutiques such as Serendipity: The Little French Shoppe and One Earth, this is one of the best Ontario towns for a weekend trip. See a show-stopping performance at the Shaw Festival Theatre, where ten or more productions are hosted annually. You can see an intriguing drama, lively comedy, or award-winning musical here. Within 25 minutes you can also access Niagara Falls, one of the most iconic waterfalls in the world.
Elora
Find a piece of European paradise in Elora. Home to beautiful boutiques, picturesque tree-lined streets, and gorgeous attractions like the Elora Gorge Lookout in the Grand River Valley, Elora is filled with charm. Capture striking photos with the cascading Elora Gorge Falls and captivating 22-meter-high cliffs before you head into town to visit the ELORA MEWS courtyard on West Mill Street. This area is filled with independent shops, ranging from fashion boutiques to ice cream parlors, home decor, quaint cafes, salons, eateries, and stores selling gifts and vintage items. And since you'll never want to leave, you can extend your stay by spending a decadent night at the Elora Mill and match comfort with exquisite views at the rooftop spa.
Sarnia
Discover Sarnia, another one of the best Ontario towns for a weekend trip. See a classical, rock, drama, comedy, or musical theater performance at the Imperial Theatre for an evening filled with fun and entertainment. Let yourself be transported millions of years back in time at the 10,000 square feet Stones 'N Bones Museum, exploring the expansive collection of dinosaurs, fossils, minerals, shells, and gems.
From there, head outdoors to swim in the waters of Lake Huron, the second-largest of North America’s five Great Lakes, and get sun-kissed on the shores of Canatara Beach. You can feel safe relaxing here, as Canatara officially earned the Blue Flag status for its commitment to strict water quality and safety criteria.
Picton
Head on over to Prince Edward County to explore Picton, where historic streets, remarkable restaurants, and eye-catching scenery come together to create the picture-perfect small-town escape. Venture down historic Main Street, admiring the unique shops and buildings en route to the Regent Theatre. See a musical, symphony, live concert, comedy show, or movie screening in this extraordinary live performance-cinema venue.
Pair award-winning wines with delicious cheese plates or personal pizzas at Three Dog Winery, a family-owned winery offering extensive seating and lovely vineyard view accommodations. Picton is also home to the mesmerizing Sandbanks Provincial Park, where several beaches and spectacular dunes will make you feel like you have been swept away into a coastal paradise.
Cobourg
Combine nature, history, and shopping in Cobourg, a one-stop destination for all your weekend interests. Whether you prefer spending your time outdoors, strolling by the waterfront as you breathe in the fresh air of Lake Ontario and unwind at Victoria Park Beach, or discovering exquisite landmarks in the Heritage District like Victoria Hall, a town hall constructed in the mid-1800s, you will be blown away by the beauty of Cobourg.
The Buttermilk Café offers delicious treats and savoury meals, and creatives can visit the Art Gallery of Northumberland, admiring thought-provoking exhibitions featuring works from Canadian artists. You will quickly see why Cobourg is one of the best Ontario towns for a weekend trip.
Bracebridge
Say hello to incredible outdoor adventures as you explore Bracebridge, a stunning small town in the heart of Ontario’s cottage country. Situated on the eastern shores of Lake Muskoka, you can enjoy all kinds of water activities in the summer, from swimming to kayaking and canoeing in Bracebridge Bay Park.
Take the kids to Santa's Village, the perfect place for fun-filled family adventures with special rides and attractions in Muskoka's favourite theme park. Capture striking photos as you discover the beautiful Bracebridge Falls, set in the heart of downtown at the Silver Bridge, then savour a mouth-watering meal at Basilico, a picturesque Italian-inspired restaurant with a lovely courtyard patio near the river.
Grand Bend
Whether you would like to spend your days sunbathing on the beach or searching for all kinds of wildlife, Grand Bend is one of the best Ontario towns for a weekend trip. Head into the heart of Pinery Provincial Park, a picturesque natural attraction known for its extraordinary biodiversity. Home to over 300 species of birds and 400 vascular plants, 10 walking trails, and 38 kilometers of groomed ski trails, this is a wonderful destination for any time of year.
In the summer, you can sit back and soak up the sun by the shores of Lake Huron on Grand Bend Beach, one of Canada’s Blue Flag beaches, recognized for its safety criteria and strict water quality. At the other end of the scenic spectrum, Grand Bend Motorplex hosts exciting track events that will make for the perfect afternoon. Whether you are a car enthusiast or looking for a unique experience, it's worth checking out.
Collingwood
Make your way to the southern shores of Georgian Bay for a relaxing weekend getaway in Collingwood. Between the breathtaking green spaces, the picturesque paths of the Collingwood Arboretum, and the stunning waterfront views from Sunset Point Beach, this town will pull you in.
A few minutes’ drive west will take you to legendary Blue Mountain Village. With its charming shops, incredible eateries, and quaint cobblestone streets, you will feel like you have stepped into a scene from a Hallmark movie. See how the lights illuminate the town in winter after you venture through the ski trails, or treat yourself to a relaxing afternoon soaking in the thermal outdoor baths of Scandinave Spa. End your day with a lovely overnight stay at Blue Mountain Resort; The Village Suites are conveniently located and well-equipped.
Stratford
Fascinating new adventures await in Stratford, a breathtaking small city where history meets natural beauty. Immerse yourself in the town's past at the Stratford Perth Museum; its collection dates back to the start of the 20th century. Capture incredible photos of the eye-catching flowers, scenic ponds, lovely pagodas, and exquisite meadow overlooking the Avon River as you venture through the beautiful Shakespearean Gardens, officially opened in 1936. The gardens include plants from the famous playwright's birthplace, species mentioned in his plays, and even two royal rose bushes that were given as gifts to the garden from King George VI. The iconic Stratford Festival is perhaps the town's biggest draw, taking place from April to November, and offering enriching experiences from Shakespeare to new plays, musicals, and classics.
Goderich
One of the best towns for a weekend escape, Goderich is a dream destination for history buffs and architectural enthusiasts. Fill your days with beauty and history as you explore captivating landmarks like the Goderich Lighthouse, its original construction dating back to 1847. See the magnificent Menesetung Bridge, constructed in the early 1900s and spanning across the Maitland River, which empties into Lake Huron in Goderich. Bask in the beauty by the water from Main Beach, or head to the scenic Maitland golf course to practice your aim by the shores of the river. The Benmiller Inn & Spa is a wonderful spot to stay, with unique room styles, a spa on the river, and fine dining at The Ivey.
Takeaways
With its stunning waterfalls, picturesque parks, incredible eateries, and captivating waterfront views, Canada’s “Heartland Province” is filled with beauty. Whether you would like to taste award-winning wines in Niagara-on-the-Lake, experience the scenic wonders of Elora, explore expansive fossil collections dating millions of years back in Sarnia, or revel in the incredible biodiversity of Grand Bend, each of these towns offers its own unique attractions and charm. Choose from the 10 best Ontario towns for a weekend trip you will never forget.
