Ontario has numerous scenic small towns and cities that present idyllic places to explore, thanks to their quaint settings, picturesque architecture, and abundant activities for people of all interests to enjoy. For those seeking ideal Ontario destinations, we’ve got you covered with a look at some of the most charming communities in the province.
Cobourg
Cobourg is a pleasant and scenic city east of Toronto along the shores of Lake Ontario. This charming community, founded in the 18th century, has a pleasant downtown area with eight blocks of restaurants, cafes, and local businesses. It also has vast public beaches, including the famous Cobourg Beach.
Stratford
Stratford is a small city along the Avon River with a reputation as a hub for the arts. The picturesque city, with historical architecture throughout, has quality local galleries such as Gallery Stratford. But performance arts are where Stratford thrives. The annual Stratford Festival, which runs from the summer into the fall, features world-class performances of classic and original plays in theaters and outdoor venues across the city.
Niagara-on-the-Lake
Niagara-on-the-Lake has long stood out as a popular destination for Ontarians, and it is easy to see why. This charming and historical community on Lake Ontario, separated from New York by the Niagara River, is a scenic location with an expansive waterfront and beaches. Thanks to its location in the heart of Ontario’s wine country, there are numerous wineries and fine dining destinations to explore as well. Come summer, Niagara-on-the-Lake hosts numerous major events and festivals, including the Shaw Festival, a major live theater event.
Port Hope
Port Hope is a charming city near Cobourg on the shores of Lake Ontario. The historic city brings plenty of visitors in the summer who go to its excellent beaches and scenic areas, such as the Ganaraska Forest. The downtown has many 19th-century buildings that house local businesses ranging from antique stores to delicious bakeries. Movie buffs will recognize this community from the recent blockbuster franchise IT, and you can easily visit many filming locations.
Collingwood
Collingwood is a year-round escape for Ontarians that has something for everyone. It hosts a large harbor on Nottawasaga Bay, which leads into Georgian Bay, and a quaint waterfront with plenty to see. Collingwood is a haven for boating, water sports, and fishing in the summer. It has gorgeous caves along the Niagara Escarpment that make for incredible places to hike and explore when the weather is warm. But in the winter, it is where many Canadians go for skiing. Collingwood borders the Blue Mountain resort and has easy access to some of the best ski trails in Canada.
