+21 Amazing Hidden Gems in Ontario Worth Road Tripping For

The most popular destinations in Ontario, especially in the summer months are Tobermory, the 1000 Islands, and Niagara Falls. At one time, some of these were hidden gems. Not anymore!

Thanks to the rise of Instagram, more and more of the amazing places in Ontario are being popularized by day-trippers. But this incredible and vast province still has a few secret treasures scattered from east to west and north to south.

As someone who is always on the hunt for new places to explore, from charming small towns to quiet hiking trails with epic views, I have a few hidden gems in Ontario I’m willing to share.

First, I want to make a note about responsible travel. When visiting small towns or parking at a hiking trail, there are a few things you should keep in mind.

• Respect people’s homes and private property.
• Do not trespass or block driveways, including farm gates.
• Be mindful and respectful of locals.
• You want to experience their home town so leave it how you left it. Do not litter.
• Track out what you track in.

And remember, leave only footprints and take only memories. Or buy a few local souvenirs!

15 Hidden Gems in Ontario to Discover

Gone are the days when places like the small town of Elora and Flowerpot Island were hidden gems in Ontario! But while the crowds flock to these areas there is still a few jewels to be discovered in Ontario. I’m dishing out the details on some amazing places from north to south and east to west that are the perfect inspiration for your next Ontario road trip!

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. By clicking through and purchasing through these links I may make a small commission to help run this blog, at no extra cost to you. Thx!

Sculpture Forest

Many flock to Algonquin Park and Muskoka in the fall but a fabulous fall destination that’s a hidden gem is the Haliburton Highlands. I’ve been visiting this area since I was born, so 40 years!! And if you’re looking for things to do in the fall then head to Haliburton!

It’s full of stunning lookouts, great hiking trails, a charming downtown, scenic roads, and so much more! And one of the top things to do in Haliburton is still an Ontario hidden gem – visiting the Sculpture Forest.

Just outside the village of Haliburton is Glebe Park. The park is home to a network of trails that are ideal for summer and fall hikes or cross-country skiing in the winter. It’s also home to the Haliburton Sculpture Forest.

Winding along the trails you’ll discover over 40 unique sculptures created by both Canadian and international artists. Consider it an open-air art museum. And the best part is it’s free!

Tucked around every bend and under a canopy of trees you’ll find so many incredible pieces, each with their own story. You can pick up a brochure at the entrance gate to Glebe Park that will take you on a self-guided tour of the sculptures and tell you all about the piece and the artist behind it.

A great way to find hidden gems in Ontario is to take one of the Guess Where Trips! These themed surprise road trips take you to various areas of the province. You can choose from an array of trips that cover everything from waterfalls to markets and even spooky places. And if you use my special code, STEPHANIE10, you’ll get 10% off your purchase.

Ouiment Canyon

For awe-inspiring natural Ontario hidden gems plan a Northern Ontario road trip. Driving along the Trans Canada Highway north you’ll find a wealth of hidden lakes in Ontario, parks, trails, waterfalls, and more!

One of these hidden natural wonders is Ouimet Canyon. Considered the ‘Grand Canyon of the North’, Ouimet Canyon is a must add to your list of things to do in Thunder Bay. Located an hour northeast of the city, Ouimet Canyon Provincial Park is a sight to see.

The Ouimet Canyon is three kilometres in length, 500 feet wide, and has over 300 feet deep. Geologists say the canyon was created a million years ago when glaciers came through this part of Northern Ontario.

FUN FACT: The canyon floor is home to rare Arctic flora that is usually found 1,000 km to the north.

Ouimet Canyon Provincial Park is home to an easy 1 km loop trail that takes you through the forest, along a boardwalk, and out to two different epic lookout platforms. You can see both north and south along the canyon and on a clear day you can even see Lake Superior.

If you’re looking for more canyon adventures you can visit the nearby Eagle Canyon. Located 15 minutes east of Ouimet, Eagle Canyon Adventures is home to two suspension bridges, one of which is the longest in Canada, as well as Canada’s highest and longest zip line.

Primitive Designs

Calling all Transformers fans and anyone else looking for quirky places in Ontario!

A short five-minute drive north of the historic downtown Port Hope you’ll find of the area’s top attractions. However, it’s mostly unknown to anyone not from the area!

Covering over two acres, Primitive Designs is a fantastic roadside attraction and shop! As you drive in, you’ll be met with towering Transformers. Their entire parking lot is filled with giant robots like dinosaurs, other animals, and a huge pirate ship.

In their massive two-level shop, you’ll find more one-of-a-kind art like Gremlins, Terminator, and more! The cool part is that all of them are made from recycled motor vehicle parts!

Plus, along with cray creations they also have an interesting shop filled with unique arts and crafts pieces. You’ll find everything from clothing to fun home décor pieces.

Note: Please note that while it is free to visit and shop, they do accept donations. Scattered around are small donation bins and even small change is appreciated.

McLean’s Mountain

While Manitoulin Island, the largest freshwater island in the world, isn’t a hidden gem there are plenty to be found on the island.

If you’re planning a road trip and looking for things to do on Manitoulin Island I encourage you to take in all of the incredible lookouts on the island.

There are many to be found, like from the Cup and Saucer Trail or Ten Mile Point. But if you’re looking for a hidden gem on Manitoulin then head to McLean’s Mountain.

Just south of Little Current, up a steep dirt road, you’ll find McLean’s Mountain Lookout. From the parking lot and along the ridge you’ll find amazing sweeping views of the North Channel of Lake Huron, rolling countryside, and even the swing bridge.

Like many stops on Manitoulin, there are also picnic tables and portable toilets on-site, making it an ideal stop for a picnic lunch with scenic views all to yourself.

Want to find more hidden gems….

Pelee Island

Looking for an island getaway? Well, you don’t need to book a plane ticket there’s an island paradise that is a hidden gem in Ontario!

Meet Pelee Island! Located in Lake Erie’s western basin, Pelee Island is only a 90-minute ferry ride from Leamington. This 10,000 acre island is full of beautiful sandy beaches, a wealth of birdlife, and plenty to entertain you on your summer vacation. Many have dubbed it the best-kept secret in Canada and I agree!

Pelee Island has so much to offer visitors! From hiking to history and a splash of wine, there’s something for everyone on the island.

The island is home to diverse landscapes that attract wildlife enthusiasts, especially during the spring and fall migration. In the spring you’ll find birders flocking to the island for the annual Springsong Festival and the spring migration of birds that pass over the island.

In the fall it’s a great place to see monarch butterflies. Pelee may be small but there’s also a museum, a winery, plenty of hiking trails, eclectic shops, and is also popular with cyclists.

Travel Tip: Please note that it’s advised to book your ferry to Pelee in advance. Ferries leave from Leamington and Kingsville.

Guildwood Park

If you’re looking for fabulous hidden gems near Toronto then head to Guildwood Park and Gardens. The park is one of the many that make up the Scarborough Bluffs.

Covering over 80 acres, Guildwood Park is the perfect marriage of history and stunning gardens. What began as an artist’s colony is now a place to take on winding trails through gardens, enjoy a picnic, and even grab a few Instagram-worth photos.

Throughout the Guildwood Park Gardens you’ll find the remnants of over 60 historic buildings from Toronto and other locations in Ontario. Saved from the rubble piles, these fragments of Toronto and Ontario’s history are expertly places as art pieces throughout the gardens.

All of them are tagged with their former location and date. It’s like an open air museum of Toronto’s architectural past. A couple of fabulous pieces include the Osterhout Log Cabin that was built in 1795 and is the oldest building in Scarborough, as well as pieces from the 1929 Toronto Start Building.

Screaming Heads

For those looking for quirky off-the-beaten path attractions in Ontario then head north to Burks Falls. Just north of Muskoka, in a once thriving charming small town, you’ll find Screaming Heads.

Created by the fabulous artist Peter Camani, Screaming Heads is where you’ll find large and strange sculptures in the form of literal screaming heads, horses, and ghosts.

Screaming Heads is set on over 300 acres of rolling hills. My favourite time of year to visit is during the spooky season of fall.

Peter has created a weird wonderland of a place that is fabulous to visit for both families and everyone else. Standing center stage is his Midlothian Castle home with a large two-headed dragon, pair of lions standing guard, and even a few peacocks.

The site is free to visit but I encourage you to leave a “tip” in his donation box. And also remember that this is someone’s home, so please be mindful of your actions as well as where you park.

Bonnecherre Caves

If you’re looking for unique things to do near Ottawa then visit Bonnecherre Caves. This gem is located 1.5 hours west of Ottawa and is one of the most unique places to visit in Ontario!

Off the back roads in Renfrew County, Bonnechere Caves is a series of underground caves that visitors can explore. After you purchase tickets, you’ll take a small guided tour.

I fell in love with the story of how the caves were discovered! And I was impressed with the tour guided knowledge and enthusiasm. Underground you’ll spot everything from stalactites to bats.

After the tour of the cave system, you’re free to explore the grounds. Along with the caves, there are trails, waterfalls and more.

Travel Tip: Please note that the caves are open seasonally, between the May long weekend through September.

Crystal Cave

In the village of South River, south of North Bay, is a literal gem on the backroads of Ontario. That gem is Crystal Cave!

I first stumbled upon is shop when researching things to do near North Bay. Its full name is Crystal Cave Mineral Exhibit & Crystal Shoppe.

Walking into the shop, I felt like I was transported to a fairy land. The shelves are lined with whimsical objects like wands, fairy doors, and colourful crystals for sale. They have crystals from all over, including local ones, like amethyst from Thunder Bay.

On the other side of the shop is an interesting museum. The museum, which only costs $5 to explore, is full of incredible pieces.

You’ll see various minerals, crystals, gemstones, and even fossils! All of the items have been collected by the couple who own the museum over the last 60 years.

Depending on the time of year that you visit, there’s always exciting things going on. Along with the shop and museum, there’s also a photography studio. Plus, they host Fairy Fest, workshops, and more.

Travel Tip: Crystal Cave is not open on Monday and Tuesdays.

Rainbow Falls

Ontario is filled with awesome waterfalls! Some of the most popular places to explore waterfalls in Ontario are the Hamilton, Muskoka, and all of the Grey County falls because of the close proximity to Toronto.

But if you’re looking for hidden gem waterfalls, you’re in luck, there are a few solid ones to add to your list. One of them is Rainbow Falls! It’s located in Rainbow Falls Provincial Park, along the Trans Canada Highway between Terrace Bay and Rossport.

Rainbow Falls is a must-stop on any Northern Ontario road trip! The park is actually two separate locations and to visit the waterfalls you’ll need to visit the Whitesand Lake location.

There are three different hiking trails to choose from. For the falls take the Rainbow Falls Trail. This 3 km trail takes approximately an hour and a half.

The trails takes you over a series of stairs, bridges, and forested trails. A short hike along the trail will lead you to the beautiful cascading Rainbow Falls. But if you continue along the trail you’ll also be rewarded with an awesome view of Lake Superior.

Grimsby Beach Cottages

Move on over Painted Ladies of San Francisco, there are more Painted Ladies in North America. And Ontario has its very own!

If you’re looking for hidden gems in the Niagara Region you’ll find a stretch of adorable homes called Grimsby Beach Cottages. Grimsby is a town on the shores of Lake Ontario, between Hamilton and St. Catherines.

Along the historic Grimsby Beach you’ll find several homes that are full of colour and personality. Grimsby is only an hour outside of Toronto, making this gem a perfect day trip from Toronto.

These adorable gingerbread-style cottages come in all sorts of wild and vibrant colours, from yellow to pink. Beyond the colour and charm is history! Many of these cute cottages have been around since the 1800s, proving a little colour makes everything look better

But there’s also more to see than just these colourful beach houses. Alongside these hidden gems are more fun finds like whimsical garden gates, art, tiny libraries and so much more.

Travel Tip: All of the owners I met while exploring the neighbourhood were friendly. But please remember, these cottages are homes, so please respect private property.

Marmora Mine

On a beautiful stretch of Highway 7, at the halfway point between Toronto and Ottawa, you’ll find one of the hidden lakes in Ontario. The Marmora Mine is an incredible gem that was created by man but aided by nature and has a rich history.

Marmora Township has a long history of iron mining that dates back to 1820. Along with iron, copper, silver, gold, lead, and lithographic limestone have also been extracted here, literally making it an Ontario gem!

The Marmora Mine is located on the Crowe River between Madoc and Havelock. The area is also known as the Marmora Open Pit Mine. After mining operations stopped water from an underground spring filled the massive pit.

It’s now a man-made lake of sorts. At 75 acres and 700 feet deep the Marmora Mine has crystal blue water. Surrounding it are massive rock walls and it’s truly a sight to see.

A great way to explore the village and the Mine is to do the Miner’s Loop. This self-guided hiking or driving tour takes you to a handful of stops, including the Mine, where you’ll see and learn about the area’s history.

Travel Tip: Please note that swimming at the mine is no longer allowed.

Black Creek Provincial Park

The Bruce Peninsula is a popular place to visit for outdoor enthusiasts. The Peninsula is full of awesome places to hike, like the Bruce Peninsula National Park and Lion’s Head.

In addition, there are the cute waterside villages like Tobermory. But if you’re looking for hidden gems on the Bruce Peninsula there is a few left!

One of them is Black Creek Provincial Park. Don’t let the name confuse you into thinking it’s close to Black Creek Pioneer Village in Toronto.

Black Creek Provincial Park is located halfway up the Peninsula in Lion’s Head. The park covers just over 700 acres and is set on the shores of Lake Huron.

This awesome hidden gem of a park has a beautiful sandy beach, that’s literally called Sandy Beach. It’s perfect for a dip in the summer or to catch the sunset.

The park is also home to 9 km of hiking trails, a beaver swamp, and a dock. The park is free to visit and has toilets, picnic tables, and a good-sized parking lot.

Tiger Dunlop’s Tomb

There are endless reasons to visit Ontario’s West Coast! Some of which include incredible beaches and a wealth of history.

Huron County is also full of picturesque small towns like Bayfield, Goderich, and Blyth. You’ll discover plenty of gems around and one of them may be a tad macabre but I promise you it’s worth the visit.

One of the many things to do in Goderich is to explore the area’s history. And one place you can do this is at Tiger Dunlop’s Tomb.

I must first admit that no, this is not the tomb of a tiger. This the tomb of Dr. William “Tiger” Dunlop, one of the founders of Goderich. Goderich, Ontario was founded in 1827 by Tiger Dunlop and John Galt.

Tiger had quite the whirlwind life. He was born in Scotland, spent time in India, where he received his nickname Tiger, and then moved to Upper Canada. He wore many hats, some of which include an army officier, surgeon, and politician.

His tomb can be found on his former estate where there’s a park and hiking trails. And at the site of his tomb you’ll be rewarded with wonderful views of the Maitland River, the Menesetung Bridge, and Lake Huron in the distance.

Bird House

There’s a reason Muskoka is a top destination in Ontario. Actually, there are a ton of reasons! You’ll find a ton of fabulous things to do in Muskoka all year long, from hiking to cruises.

But if you’re looking for hidden gems in Muskoka then head to Bracebridge. As one of the most popular Muskoka small towns, there is a wealth of things to do. One place that many overlook is the Bird House, also known as the Woodchester House.

Set back off one of the main streets in downtown Bracebridge and surrounded by an incredible forest, the Bird House is one of eighteen octagonal houses in Ontario.

It’s also one of the oldest, built in 1882, and largest. Dubbed the Bird House, as three generations of the Bird family lived here.

And if you’re looking for things to do in the fall in Ontario then a visit to the Bird House should be on your list. Not only because the building is said to be haunted by two members of the Bird family along with a few others but because it’s a fabulous place to take in the fall colours!

Are you looking for more haunted houses? Check out these 50+ Haunted Places in Ontario!

More Unexplored Places in Ontario Not to Miss

With such a massive province the options for hidden gems in Ontario are extensive! So, whether you’re looking for hidden places in Ontario to add to your road trip itinerary or fun day trips from Toronto, I’m sharing a few more unexplored places you should visit.

Arthur Conan Doyle Room

Whether you’re a book nerd or not a visit to the Arthur Conan Doyle Room is a treat! This nearly secret room in the Toronto Reference Library is one of the most charming hidden gems in Toronto.

Located on the top floor this room will transport you to a classic English library with wooden bookshelves lining the walls. This room is home to one of the world’s most notable collections of Arthur Conan Doyle materials reflecting both his work and life.

Looking for more unique places in Ontario?

Pick up a copy of Top 170 Unusual Things to See in Ontario by Ron Brown. Top 170 Unusual Things to See in Ontario offers incredible stories about all of the unusual places to visit in Ontario. Along with photos and description of each place, you’ll learn the story about each.

Bluewater Dunes

Ontario is full of incredible landscapes, including sand dunes. And if you’re looking for some that are a bit of a hidden gem head to Bluewater Dunes.

This ecological park is located north of Wasaga Beach and is right on the shores of Georgian Bay. The area is home to incredible stretches of boardwalk trails so that you can experience the dunes without damaging the fragile landscape.  

Union Station

During my Lake Erie road trip I stopped in Port Stanley to check out the sights. One of them is the Port Stanley Terminal Rail, which operates train tours for visitors.

As a huge fan of train and all things train travel, I knew I had to visit a nearby hidden gem. Located minutes from downtown Port Stanley is Union Station.

Union Station is the smallest Union Station in North America! It’s also the oldest building on the Port Stanley Terminal Railway. The unstaffed small station saw trains up until 1957.

The small Ontario train station is visible from Sparta Road bridge. It’s a quiet road. Even in the peak of summer, I didn’t see a car pass.

To best visit, I recommend parking safely on the side of the road. You can get a great view and photo of the station from the top of the bridge that covers the tracks. And specifically, from the west side.

Travel Tip: The land surrounding the station is private land. Please respect people’s property and don’t trespass to go directly to the train station.

Split Rock Narrows

If you’re looking for a great place to hike along the Niagara Escarpment that isn’t overrun by people then head to Split Rock Narrows. Located just north of Orangeville, Spilt Rock Narrows Nature Reserve is home to a 2.6 km loop trail.

The trail takes you through ups and downs and through forest and meadows. My favourite part is the awesome scenic caves that are the perfect place to hide in the July heat.

Puzzle Tombstone

Just outside Kitchener, in the village of Wellesley lies a strange puzzle. In the Rushes Pioneer Cemetery sits a cryptic tombstone in the far back corner known as the Bean Puzzle Tombstone.

Here lies the tombstone of two of Dr. Samuel Bean’s wives. Instead of writing the typical in memoriam, Dr. Bean created a strange puzzle upon the gravestone.

It took over 100 years to decipher but in 1947 the cemetery’s caretaker cracked it. The Bean Puzzle Tombstone is definitely one of the weirdest hidden gems in Ontario

Exeter

Another cute town in Ontario that’s home to a hidden gem experience is Exeter. Located in the southern part of Huron County, Exeter is known for its white squirrels.

Unlike the albino ones that have been spotted in Bellwoods Park in Toronto, the white squirrels in Exeter are not albino. These are a genetic mutation of the common Eastern Grey Squirrel.

The squirrels have become such a significant part of Exeter’s identity that they are not only the symbol of the town but there’s a mascot, Willis The White Wonder. And even a White Squirrel Festival!

While they can be spotted throughout residential parts of town they are most widely seen in McNaughton Park.

Birdhouse City

Many visit Prince Edward County for the wineries, beaches, and parks. But one of the cutest hidden gems in Prince Edward County is Birdhouse City.

Located in Macaulay Mountain Conservation Area, just a short walk outside Picton, Birdhouse City is an homage to nature, birds, and the history of the county.

Created over 40 years ago, it’s home to roughly 100 unique birdhouses that are modeled after historic buildings in Prince Edward County, like the MacPherson House and Crystal Palace.

Final Thoughts

With so many hidden gems in Ontario, there’s still so many incredible places to discover. Uncovering off the beaten path places in Ontario, you’ll also be ensuring sustainable tourism by not indulging in popular destinations that are struggling with overtourism.

Do you have a favourite hidden gem you’d like to share?

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