Top Destinations to Visit in Ontario

1. Niagara Falls
Niagara Falls is arguably one of the most famous natural attractions in the world. This magnificent waterfall straddles the border between Canada and the United States, with the Canadian side offering the most spectacular views. The Hornblower Niagara Cruises take visitors up close to the falls, providing an unforgettable experience. Beyond the falls, the surrounding area is full of attractions such as Niagara Parks Botanical Gardens, Whirlpool Aero Car, and Skylon Tower, which offers panoramic views of the falls and surrounding landscape. The charming town of Niagara-on-the-Lake, located nearby, is known for its 19th-century architecture, boutique shops, and wine country tours, making it an excellent side trip for those visiting the falls.

2. Toronto
Toronto, the capital city of Ontario, is Canada’s largest and most cosmopolitan city. A hub for culture, entertainment, and commerce, Toronto boasts a rich array of attractions. The CN Tower, once the tallest freestanding structure in the world, offers a glass floor and observation deck with breathtaking views of the city and Lake Ontario. The Royal Ontario Museum (ROM) is one of the world’s largest museums, with exhibits ranging from natural history to world cultures. For art lovers, the Art Gallery of Ontario (AGO) houses an impressive collection of Canadian and international art. The Distillery District, a pedestrian-only area, is home to galleries, restaurants, and shops housed in historic Victorian buildings. The Toronto Islands, a short ferry ride from the downtown core, offers a peaceful escape with beaches, biking paths, and stunning views of the skyline.

3. Ottawa
As the capital of Canada, Ottawa is rich in history and national pride. A must-visit is Parliament Hill, where you can witness the daily Changing of the Guard ceremony in the summer months. The Rideau Canal, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is an excellent spot for outdoor activities, including boating and cycling in summer and skating in winter. The canal is also lined with beautiful parks and green spaces perfect for a stroll or picnic. The National Gallery of Canada is home to a world-class collection of Canadian and Indigenous art, while the Canadian Museum of History offers fascinating exhibits on Canadian culture and heritage. Don’t miss the Byward Market, one of the oldest public markets in the country, offering local produce, artisanal goods, and a wide variety of restaurants and cafes.

4. Algonquin Provincial Park
Algonquin Provincial Park is Ontario’s most famous national park, known for its vast wilderness and diverse wildlife. Spanning over 7,600 square kilometers, it is home to dense forests, pristine lakes, and tranquil rivers. Algonquin is a popular destination for canoeing, hiking, wildlife watching, and camping. The park’s Canisbay Lake and Lake Opeongo are excellent for boating, while the Bruce Trail offers a scenic hike through the park’s rugged terrain. In the fall, the park becomes a stunning display of vibrant foliage, attracting photographers and nature lovers from around the world. The Algonquin Logging Museum provides a fascinating look at the region’s history and the role logging played in shaping the area.

5. Muskoka
Known as “Cottage Country”, Muskoka is a beautiful region filled with crystal-clear lakes, lush forests, and charming towns. It’s a perfect destination for those seeking outdoor relaxation and adventure. In the summer, Muskoka is a playground for boating, kayaking, swimming, and fishing. The region’s numerous lakes, including Lake Muskoka, Lake Rosseau, and Lake Joseph, are perfect for cruising or relaxing by the shore. In winter, Muskoka turns into a snowy paradise, offering skiing, snowshoeing, and dog sledding. The towns of Gravenhurst and Bracebridge offer charming downtown areas filled with shops, restaurants, and seasonal festivals. Visitors can also explore the Muskoka Heritage Place, which offers insight into the area’s history.

6. Bruce Peninsula National Park
Located on the Niagara Escarpment, Bruce Peninsula National Park is renowned for its dramatic scenery, including cliffside views, caves, and turquoise waters. The park’s Grotto is one of the most photographed spots in Ontario. It’s a stunning sea cave with clear, blue water that visitors can swim in during the warmer months. The Bruce Trail, which runs through the park, is one of the oldest and most scenic hiking trails in Canada. Hiking the trail offers views of towering cliffs, dense forests, and pristine lakes. The park is also home to a variety of wildlife, including black bears, white-tailed deer, and numerous bird species.

7. Stratford
Famous for its Shakespeare Festival, Stratford is a charming town with a rich arts scene. The festival, held annually from April to October, offers a wide range of performances, including productions of Shakespeare’s plays as well as contemporary works. The town is filled with picturesque streets, riverside parks, and beautiful Victorian architecture. Stratford’s downtown is home to unique shops, fine dining restaurants, and cozy cafés, perfect for strolling and relaxing. The Festival Theatre and the Avon Theatre are among the best places to catch a show, but you’ll also find smaller theaters offering experimental and independent performances.

8. Royal Botanical Gardens
Located in Burlington, just outside of Toronto, the Royal Botanical Gardens is one of the largest botanical gardens in Canada. The gardens feature a diverse collection of plant species, including roses, tulips, and rhododendrons. The Rock Garden, Meadow Garden, and Lily Garden offer different seasonal displays, making the gardens a year-round destination. The Hendrie Valley offers several nature trails where visitors can walk among wetlands and woodlands while observing local wildlife. The gardens also host seasonal festivals, events, and workshops related to horticulture and gardening.

9. Blue Mountain Resort
Situated near Collingwood, Blue Mountain Resort is Ontario’s premier ski destination. The resort boasts over 40 ski trails, making it ideal for both beginners and advanced skiers. In addition to skiing and snowboarding, the resort offers a variety of winter activities, including snowshoeing, snow tubing, and ice skating. During the summer, Blue Mountain becomes a hub for mountain biking, hiking, and zip-lining. The resort’s village features a selection of restaurants, shops, and spas, making it an excellent place to unwind after a day on the slopes or trails.

10. Thousand Islands
The Thousand Islands is a picturesque region along the St. Lawrence River known for its scenic beauty and historic significance. The area features over 1,800 islands, many of which are uninhabited, offering plenty of opportunities for outdoor exploration. Boldt Castle, located on Heart Island, is a famous landmark, known for its stunning architecture and romantic history. Visitors can take boat tours to explore the islands, enjoy activities like kayaking, or relax on the shores. The nearby towns of Gananoque and Kingston offer charming dining, shopping, and cultural experiences.

11. Kawartha Lakes
Located just north of Toronto, Kawartha Lakes is a peaceful region known for its small towns and natural beauty. The area is dotted with lakes, making it a great destination for fishing, boating, and swimming. The towns of Fenelon Falls, Bobcaygeon, and Lindsay offer quaint streets with local shops, cafes, and restaurants. In the summer, the region hosts a variety of festivals and events, while in the winter, it’s ideal for snowmobiling, ice fishing, and cross-country skiing.

12. Niagara-on-the-Lake
Located just a short drive from Niagara Falls, Niagara-on-the-Lake is a picturesque town known for its historical significance and wine country. The town is filled with Victorian-era architecture, charming boutiques, and cozy bed-and-breakfasts. The Shaw Festival Theatre is a major draw, offering performances of plays by George Bernard Shaw and other notable writers. Visitors can tour local wineries and taste world-class wines, especially those made from the region’s unique icewine grapes. The area is also perfect for cycling along scenic routes or enjoying a relaxing afternoon by the lake.