8 Storybook Towns In Ontario
Beyond the shadow of the impressive, modern CN Tower in Ontario, the province seems frozen in the 19th century. There are romantic, storybook towns throughout the province, where you will find authentic Victorian brickwork, waterfalls, alpine villages, and dreamy gorges. These small towns have a particular kind of charm that many miss out on while speeding past them on the 400-series highways. So, if you have ever wanted to feel like you are suspended within the pages of a classic fairytale, all you need to do is take the exits that lead to the following Ontario towns.
Goderich
Goderich is everything you could ever need in a storybook town. It sits on Lake Huron, where the water is turquoise, and the sand is soft. The town also has a walkable historic downtown district where you can learn more about its history. Known as Canada’s prettiest town, Goderich offers you the chance to stroll along three gorgeous beaches. Main Beach is in proximity to the waterfront, and from this beach, you can take a boardwalk to St. Christopher’s Beach. You can also visit Rotary Cove Beach all in one day, while exploring the eateries and ice cream stands along the way. You will want to stop by the Goderich Lighthouse, the oldest of its kind on the Canadian shores of Lake Huron. You can access the lighthouse by taking the wooden stairs leading from St Christopher’s Beach.
Visitors can also stop by Lions Harbour Park before they reach the waterfront. From here, one can enjoy the views of the harbor and the old salt mine. Tourists can also have a picnic on the landscaped grounds. When walking to downtown Goderich, you will see traffic flowing in an octagonal shape, which is also how the downtown area is shaped. The center of the octagon holds Courthouse Square. History enthusiasts can visit the square and the Huron Historic Gaol. There are also several historical exhibits at the Huron County Museum. At the end of a beautiful day in Goderich, you can head to the Menesetung Bridge to watch the sun set over the water.
Niagara-on-the-Lake
Niagara-on-the-Lake shares the spoils when it comes to being the ‘prettiest town in Canada.’ It is impossible to choose which offers the best views, so the only option is to visit both and enjoy them. The historic center of the town is home to the Old Courthouse, the St Vincent de Paul Church, and the Memorial Clock Tower. By the lake, visitors will find Queen’s Royal Park and Gazebo, which has a plaque commemorating that Upper Canada’s very first newspaper was published in the 18th century. Those who do not feel like walking everywhere can explore this storybook town in a horse-drawn carriage.
Around 25 minutes away from town, Niagara Falls awaits. You can take the scenic Niagara Parkway and stop at some of the wineries along the way. The waterfall is simply incredible, especially with the constant mist in the air. The Canadian side of the falls features a stone walkway that runs along the river's edge. If you want to cross to the other side, you can visit Niagara Falls State Park, which is America’s oldest state park.
Elora
Called Canada’s most beautiful village by one of the Group of Seven painters, the small town of Elora goes big on views and charm. The ornate Elora Mill is one of the first attractions visitors will see as they drive into the town. The structure was once a grist mill and has been transformed into a hotel, restaurant, and spa perched along the Grand River. You can leave your car behind and walk across the new concrete bridge that has replaced the Bradley Bridge, enjoying views on both sides. Continue on to reach downtown Elora.
There is a stunning green space, Bissell Park, at the end of East Mill Street. The park sits along the Grand River and features a waterfall and a boardwalk. On Henderson Street, you will find the Old McLean House, built in 1858. The house was built for Reverend John MacGregor, who was the headmaster of the Elora Grammar School. When you have had your fill of history, make your way to the Elora Gorge, which happens to be the crowning glory of this storybook town. The gorge is in the Elora Gorge Conservation Area, and enthusiasts can hike around it or kayak in the waters. There is also plenty of space and opportunity for tubing, fishing, and camping.
Stratford
The heart of the small town of Stratford is the Avon River that flows through it. The banks of the river are dotted with landscaped lawns and walkways where one can sit on the benches and enjoy the tranquility. Outdoor lovers can even paddle a boat or kayak in the water. For younger visitors, Stratford is mainly known as the home of Justin Bieber. But for those who love art and theatre, the Stratford Festival is the main draw, celebrating the life and works of William Shakespeare.
No matter which attraction you are most interested in, you will find something to intrigue you at the Stratford Perth Museum. There are several historic collections here, as well as a Justin Bieber exhibit. Outside, you can take an approximately one-kilometer-long path lined with historical plaques that tell the town’s story. Remember to stop by the Gallery Stratford to see the outdoor sculptures and the contemporary art pieces inside. And do not miss a visit to the Shakespeare Gardens, filled with herbs and flowers.
Almonte
Almonte is famous for being a favored filming location for romantic Hallmark Christmas movies. It is not hard to see why. This small town is exceptionally charming with historic buildings and great river views. One of the first things you should do here is take the riverwalk trail that runs along the Canadian Mississippi River. There are several parks and rapids along the way, and you can read the interpretive signs that tell you everything you need to know about Almonte’s history.
The riverwalk will take you downtown, where you can browse Carriageway Studios to see art exhibitions and Mill Street Books to find new releases. Stop by the James Naismith statue on Mill Street, which honors the inventor of basketball. Naismith lived on a farm near town, and there is even a museum dedicated to him at the nearby Mill of Kintail Conservation Area.
Jordan Station
Jordan Station is a fairy-tale village in the Niagara region’s wine country, very close to Jordan Village. Visitors can experience winetasting at its finest throughout this place, particularly at Cave Spring Cellars, which offers a boutique wine-tasting room. In Main Street, one can indulge in a delicious pastry and great coffee at RPM Bakehouse before heading to the Jordan Art Gallery.
Jordan also offers wonderful outdoor adventures. Adventurers can hike the forest trails in the Ball’s Falls Conservation Area. There are two waterfalls here and even a ghost town for you to explore. Those visiting during June can combine their trip with the Art Lives Here Festival. Or, if you prefer visiting during the colder months, you can catch the Starlight Market in November.
Merrickville
The stunning town of Merrickville lies along the Rideau Canal and includes the rural region of Wolford. The canal is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and forms part of the Leeds and Grenville area. You will want to stay a while, so book a room at the historic Baldachin Inn. There are gourmet meals to enjoy here, a small pub, and great views of the canal. Or you can opt for the 1840 Guest House B&B, where you can eat a home-cooked breakfast every day.
With your accommodation sorted, you can start exploring this storybookish place. The Merrickville Blockhouse features artifacts and exhibits that explain when and how the canal and village were established. Then, have a picnic along the canal before visiting the Merrickville Ruins. The ruins are mainly those of old factories and mills. These buildings were once filled with workers who ensured the local economy kept turning. If you want to hike, you can take the Rideau Trail, which passes through the village.
Bracebridge
The pretty town of Bracebridge is perhaps best known for its fall foliage and Santa’s Village amusement park. The park sits at a bend in the Muskoka River and offers more than 30 rides and fun attractions. These include the Candy Cane Express, Elf School, Falcon’s Nest, and the Elves Island Play Village. It is a true holiday wonderland for the whole family.
Besides having fun at the park, you can visit the four waterfalls in the area, namely Muskoka Falls, High Falls, Wilson’s Falls, and Bracebridge Falls. Or, you can hike to the top of the Huckleberry Rock Lookout for sweeping views of the landscape. For a more tranquil activity, board the Muskoka River Cruise boat that will take you past Millionaires’ Row. If you visit Bracebridge at the end of January, you can take part in the hugely popular Fire and Ice Festival. The festival includes the opportunity to tube down Main Street, watch fireworks, and try your hand at axe-throwing.
Make Ontario Your Next Great Escape
If you feel your heart pulling you towards the mist of the breathtaking Elora Gorge or the Christmas magic of Bracebridge, it is time to start planning your next getaway. Ontario’s storybook towns offer you the perfect break from the daily monotony of life. You will find something to take home with you in every town you visit, whether a wonderful memory or a physical souvenir. So, the next time you have a free weekend, pack that bag, fill up your car, and go see these magical places for yourself.
