10 Of The Most Adorable Small Towns In Ontario
Between legendary landmarks, picture-perfect provincial parks, and a wide range of cultures and cuisines, "The Heartland Province" is a destination that will capture your heart. From the winding cobblestone streets of Elora to the exquisite wineries and nearby natural wonders of Niagara-on-the-Lake and the striking architectural treasures of Stratford, here are 10 of the most adorable small towns in Ontario you need to add to your list and visit ASAP.
Elora
Whether you would like to immerse yourself in natural scenery, get your heart pumping with exhilarating adventures, or unlock a taste of Europe right in Ontario, this gem offers it all. Bask in the beauty of the Elora Gorge Conservation Area, seeing the stunning Grand River rushing past the 22-metre high cliffs. Rent a tube and experience the rush for yourself, or uncover spectacular views of the water with a hike. If you prefer lying back on the beach and dipping your toes in the calming waters, the Elora Quarry Conservation Area is a lovely spot to visit. After soaking up the sun, make your way into town to see the charming cobblestone streets, exploring the quaint shops and eateries of the Elora Mews, a restored heritage area that's now a shopping and dining destination.
Collingwood
Welcome to Collingwood, one of the most adorable small towns in Ontario. This charming town, located on the beautiful Georgian Bay with its close proximity to Blue Mountain, is perfect for a serene escape. Besides skiing down the powdery white slopes of the snow-capped Blue Mountain Resort in the winter, you can find treasures while meandering through the downtown area all year round. From unique to lively festivals, fresh farmers' markets, and vibrant events, Downtown Collingwood offers it all. Watch a captivating show at Theatre Collingwood; from romance to dramas, classics, storytelling, and all kinds of musical performances, you will find what you are looking for. Get pampered and refreshed at Scandinave Spa Blue Mountain, where rejuvenating thermal baths and various massage treatments are available. The Forest Bathing Experience is not one you will want to miss.
Bracebridge
Commonly referred to as "The Heart of Muskoka," Bracebridge is a stunning small town in Ontario's Cottage Country. Officially incorporated in 1875, you will find a wide range of attractions here, from historic buildings to lovely waterfalls, scenic trails, quality breweries, vibrant arts centers, and engaging family activities. Take the kids to play at Santa's Village: Muskoka's Theme Park, so they can get a taste of Christmas in the summer with over 30 rides and attractions to explore. Capture striking photos of High Falls, featuring five eye-catching waterfalls. Search for treasures in Rich Hill Candles & Gifts, a charming shop offering all kinds of scented candles that will spice up your home. From there, sip on a fresh, natural, locally brewed beer at Muskoka Brewery, enjoying the spacious patio in the summer or cozy interior in the winter.
Perth
Spend some time in Perth, a picture-perfect small town with a big heart. Discover breathtaking natural vistas in places like Stewart Park, home to the iconic Stewart Park Festival that takes place every year. You can expect to see captivating bridges, a lovely stream, scenic swimming homes, and extraordinary rock formations here. Perth is also home to one-of-a-kind landmarks, like The Mammoth Cheese. This 22,000-pound cheese was produced in 1893, intended to promote Canadian cheese on a global scale at the World's Columbian Exposition in Chicago that year. Next, see what gems you can find in Gore St Antique Market, an indoor flea market with 47 vendors and 8,500 square feet of space in one of the most adorable small towns in Ontario.
Paris
While the French capital is glamorously mesmerizing, this small Ontario town offers its own kind of charm. Between nineteenth-century cobblestone structures, gorgeous Victorian Gothic buildings, and the remarkable Richardsonian Romanesque Paris Presbyterian Church, originally constructed in 1893, historic treasures await. Meander through The Paris Wincey Mills Co., exploring the lively market hall offering diverse culinary and cultural experiences. Take a stroll through Penman's Dam Park, seeing the faux waterfall or enjoying the scenery along the Grand River. Every evening, vibrant colours illuminate the dam with the "Lighting of the Paris Falls," best seen from the William Street Bridge.
Niagara-on-the-Lake
If well-preserved 19th-century Victorian structures, combined with beautiful boutiques, captivating shops, famous theatres, and distinguished wineries, sound incredible to you, welcome to Niagara-on-the-Lake. This picture-perfect town, situated on at the mouth of the Niagara River, is home to Canadian icons like the legendary Shaw Festival Theatre. Watch a show at this timeless theatre, its history dating back to 1962. Next, capture beautiful photos of Brock's Monument, a 56-metre-tall landmark set on the site of the Battle of Queenston Heights. If you would like to uncover stunning views of Lake Ontario and Niagara Falls, climb 235 steps to the top. Speaking of which, the world-famous Niagara Falls is only 18 miles away. See the extraordinary falls, which are approximately 12,000 years old, soaking in the scenery of this natural wonder with its immense beauty and power.
Tobermory
Located at the northern tip of the Bruce Peninsula, Tobermory is one of the most adorable small towns in Ontario, which also offers exquisite natural scenery. From the mesmerizing Harbour with its marvelous moored yachts and transparent blue waters, to significant landmarks like the Big Tub Lighthouse (which helped guide ships through the dramatic waters of Lake Huron and Georgian Bay), Tobermory is full of surprises. Soak in the scenery from peaceful, postcard-perfect spots like Little Cove Beach, a beautiful oasis on the rugged Lake Huron shoreline, for a piece of paradise right in The Heartland Province.
Almonte
Make your way to the magnificent Mississippi River to explore Almonte, a charming small town that makes for the perfect big city escape. Wander around the historic Mill Street, a colourful street lined with shops, cafes, galleries, and restaurants. Over the years, this has become a popular filming location, earning Almonte the nickname of "Mini Hollywood North." Many Hallmark movies have been filmed here, from "A Novel Noel," "Under The Christmas Tree," "Maps and Mistletoe," and more. Encompass fairy-tale-like vistas in the Mill of Kintail Conservation Area, featuring the 1830s grist mill, significant sculptures and memorabilia, and beautiful hiking and skiing trails.
Goderich
Discover Goderich, one of the most adorable small towns in Ontario. Situated on the shores of Lake Huron, this breathtaking destination is renowned for its incredible location by the water and its one-of-a-kind downtown area. Explore the octagonal core known as "The Square." Here, streets extend from the center of town (Courthouse Park being a beloved gathering place). From there, grab your camera and capture photos while wandering down the Menesetung Bridge, a historical landmark originally constructed in the early 1900s. This stunning 750-foot steel and wood railway bridge spans the Maitland River. Experience the grandeur of the Huron County Museum from the outside before you head indoors, where thousands of artifacts covering historical and cultural exhibitions await.
Stratford
Say "hello" to mesmerizing museums, gorgeous gardens, and a vibrant arts scene in Stratford. This fascinating town was named after England's Stratford-upon-Avon, the birthplace of William Shakespeare. You can see cultural references meandering through the postcard-perfect Shakespearean Gardens. Explore the various gardens, with their flowering plants, ornamental shrubs, scenic ponds, perennials, red and white spring tulips, aquatic plants, plantings that attract butterflies, and a beautiful meadow overlooking the Avon River. If you are visiting between April and November, enjoy world-class theatre and musical experiences via the Stratford Festival. From Shakespearean plays to contemporary dramas, children's tales, musicals, and more, be ready to step into a world of enchantment. Another unmissable site is the Stratford City Hall. See the spectacular red brick, late-Victorian eclecticism design, which incorporates various styles including Classical Revival, Richardsonian Romanesque, Dutch Baroque, and Palladian features.
Explore Ontario
Whether you are dreaming of a peaceful weekend getaway exploring more of the hidden treasures near you or you are planning an all-encompassing trip to Toronto and want to make additional stops to get a better sense of Ontario, these are stunning destinations you can not miss. Between lakeside scenery, iconic cultural attractions, distinguished wineries, and architectural masterpieces, you will be in for a real treat. From Elora to Stratford, these are undoubtedly 10 of the adorable small towns in Ontario you have to visit today.
