+25 Charming Ontario Small Towns You’ll Fall in Love With
Ontario small towns are some of the best in the world! Many have unique features and diverse shops, restaurants, and cafes. Some are home to astounding natural wonders, while others are full of history, and many – if not all – you’ll fall in love with. So, if you’re looking for an unforgettable Ontario road trip check out this list of small towns in Ontario you have to visit!
Big cities draw the bulk of travellers across the globe. There is plenty of things to do, a diverse mix of restaurants and cafes, and convenient public transportation. But visiting small towns can leave you more than satisfied.
There’s something comforting about exploring small towns. The shop owners and locals are more welcoming, there’s a sense of community, and many ooze charm. Attractions in a little town are quainter and tours are more personal. And you leave feeling like you made a difference with your travel dollars going right back into the communities you visit and the local shop owners you support.
20 Best Ontario Small Towns
There are endless small towns in Ontario to visit, from north to south and east to west! But how do you choose which Ontario small town is right for you? Or worth the drive for that fact?! Well, I’m putting in the miles and work to help you find the perfect small town for you’re next road trip or getaway!
Tobermory
Located at the northern most tip of the Bruce Peninsula is Tobermory. Three hours north of Toronto, Tobermory is this adorable little village that oozes charm. Situated on two harbours, Big Tub and Little Tub, Tobermory is easily one of the top Ontario small towns.
You won’t find chain stores here. There’s a mix of diverse shops and places to eat, all of which are local. Even the people are lovely, from the shop owner who recommends where to eat to waitress at the pub retelling witty tales. Its places like these that draw us in and make us feel right at home. It’s no wonder why people visit Tobermory again and again.
Tobermory is one of those idyllic small towns on the water in Ontario and perfect for nature addicts! With two National Parks – Fathom Five National Marine Park and Bruce Peninsula National Park, there’s no shortage of wild places to explore. From hiking the awesome trails to hopping on a cruise and even stopping at Flowerpot Island, Tobermory’s wild beauty with blow you away. It’s also home to a wealth of day hikes along the Bruce Trail that runs all the way up the Peninsula and ends in Tobermory.
Looking for places to stay while you visit charming small towns in Ontario? Try one of these cute, dreamy, and quirky Airbnbs in Ontario.
Elora
Where can you enjoy an epic music festival, walk among towering limestone cliffs, as well as shop and eat to your heart’s delight? Elora, Ontario! Many know Elora for the Elora Festival. It’s one of the most heralded summer music festivals in Canada. But there are so many more things to do in Elora.
Elora is one of those picturesque Ontario small towns that make you feel like you’re in England opposed to Canada. Many have dubbed it the prettiest little town in Ontario! It has a historic main street of stone and brick buildings line Mill Street with a backdrop of the Grand River. Plus, it’s downtown is filled with fabulous boutique shops selling everything from unique gifts to antiques.
Elora is a great day trip from Toronto. After shopping and taking in an art gallery you’ll find it difficult to choose from its list of great cafés, restaurants, and pubs.
For outdoor enthusiasts Elora is a mecca for awesome adventures and incredible natural beauty. Want to cool down on a sweltering summer day? Head to the Elora Quarry, a scenic and popular swimming spot.
The Elora Gorge, running right through town, is one of the best places to experience nature in Ontario. Eighty-foot high limestone cliffs create an otherworldly atmosphere. Enjoy a hike along the Elora Gorge, zipline across it, or jump on a tube to ride through it along the river.
Related Post: Unique Places to Stay in Ontario
Perth
Less than 100 kilometres southwest of Ottawa you’ll find one of the most beautiful small towns in Ontario! Set along the Tay River in Eastern Ontario, Perth is a must visit for those looking for historic towns in Ontario!
Perth was founded in 1816 and is named after a city in Scotland. Its downtown core is filled with charm and stone buildings that are reminiscent of Britain. Among the heritage buildings winds the Tay River. There are also a handful of fabulous restaurants and cafes with patios overlooking the water!
You’ll find plenty of things to do in Perth, from outdoor activities to historic attractions. Take a stroll through Stewart Park, visit the Perth Museum, and browse the shops throughout downtown. Plus, be sure to pop into Code’s Mill. This heritage building is filled with a variety of businesses. There’s an art gallery, flower shop, as well as food shops and restaurants.
One of the top sights is the Mammoth Cheese, one of the many quirky roadside attractions in Ontario! The original 22,000-pound block of cheese was made by the region’s dairy produces in 1893 for the Chicago World Fair. The one on display now, however, is a beloved replica!
Travel Tip: Parking can be found behind Code’s Mill where you’ll find a large lot.
Unionville
If you’re looking for fabulous small towns near Toronto then head to Markham. Here you’ll discover the picturesque small town of Unionville. Settled in 1794, Unionville still maintains much of its historic charm with century homes and buildings lining the main street.
If you’re a fan of Gilmore Girls or Stars Hollow you’ll recognize Unionville as it has been the backdrop for many movies and television shows.
I always thought that Unionville was one of the best small towns in Ontario but I completely fell in love with it when I visited during the holidays! If you’re looking for a lovely Christmas getaway in Ontario then consider Unionville.
Throughout November, December and January Unionville’s main street is dressed for the holidays. They wind real live garland around lamp posts and top them with lights. Businesses cover their windows and exteriors with holiday lights, decorations, and more! And throughout town you’ll find a handful of fun and festive pop ups for grabbing a photo worthy of your next Christmas card or selfie for Instagram!
There are also a host of events like holiday shopping deals, carolers, live music, a visit from Santa Clause, and more!
While Unionville is one of the best Christmas towns in Ontario it’s perfect to visit any time of year! You’ll find a ton of fun things to do in Unionville, whether you’re looking for a great day trip from Toronto or a girl’s getaway.
The main street is chalked full of great restaurants and cafes like Next Door restaurant, Espresso 21, Il Postino, and Boreal Gateau & Creamery. There are also a bunch of great shops selling everything from ladies clothing, gift ideas, and even one of the best places to grab tasty treats. A few must-visit shops include Pretty Thingz, Lemonwood, and for your sweet tooth – Old Firehall Confectionery.
You might want to walk off all that good food and get a breath of fresh air from shopping. Unionville’s Toogood Pond truly is too good! This lovely park has a loop trail leading you around the pond, a restaurant and ice cream shop, plus there is plenty of parking around it. So, be sure to add Unionville of your list of charming Ontario small towns to visit this year!
Little Current
One of the cutest small towns in Ontario Canada can be found on the largest freshwater island in the world, Manitoulin Island! Little Current is the main town on Manitoulin and makes for an ideal base for exploring the rest of the island.
Set along the North Channel, Little Current is full of charm and character! And the town comes alive in the summer with cottagers and visitors. Stretching from along downtown and beyond is a lovely boardwalk. It’s the perfect spot to catch the sunset or sunrise!
While the town is small, it has a hotel, brewery, and a variety of fun shops and restaurants. One of the fun shops, especially for those with a sweet tooth, is Mercantile. This old school candy shop has so many weird and tasty retro treats! And for those looking for great souvenirs, pop into Outpost General Store.
A few other must-see attractions include the Little Current swing bridge and the lighthouse. You can find views of both along the Waterfront Trail. The trail runs along the lower shoreline.
Southampton
One of the best small towns in Ontario lies on the shores of Lake Huron. That town is Southampton! A popular spot in the summer, thanks to its picturesque beach, there’s so much more to do!
If you are looking for a quieter beach than the famous Sauble Beach, that’s just north of town, then Southampton is where you want to go. Its famous stretch of beach is also home to a boardwalk trail and sand dunes. Plus, Southampton is home to some of the best sunset spots in Ontario!
For those that are looking for more, there are so many fun things to do in Southampton! Whether you love hiking, cycling, art or shopping, this town has it all! Plus, throughout town are a variety of restaurants and cafes that will wow foodies!
With a long history of maritime travel, Southampton is filled with lighthouses! Four of them! Other top activities include a visit to the Bruce County Museum, browsing art at the art gallery, and enjoy sunset piper.
If you’re planning a Lake Huron road trip, Southampton is a great stop! It’s close to other incredible small towns along the coast like Port Elgin and Kincardine.
Kincardine
An Ontario town that should be on everyone’s summer bucket list is Kincardine! Set along the coast of Lake Huron, this gem is a great destination for all! Visitors will find a long list of things to do in Kincardine!
Along with a long stretch of beautiful beach, you’ll find museums, hiking trails, gardens, and plenty of Scottish charm! It’s home to a Scottish Festival & Highland Games that draws in thousands every summer.
Downtown is full of fabulous shops, many of which have pure beachy vibes! Foodies will find a variety of restaurants and eateries. However, if you’re looking to dine with a view, head to the patio at The Bruce!
History buffs will enjoy all of the heritage buildings. Plus, the town has put together a number of self-guided heritage walking tours where you can see and learn more!
Outdoor adventurers will love Kincardine! Along with numerous trails in town, there are two incredible Ontario Parks nearby! Both MacGregor Point Provincial Park and Inverhuron Provincial Park are home to a number of epic hiking trails, beaches, and camping. Plus, both are great spots for birders!
Kingsville
Are you looking for one of the best Ontario towns near the United States border? In under an hour from Detroit, Michigan is the picturesque Kingsville Ontario.
Set along the northern shores of Lake Erie, this is a dreamy destination for beach lovers and wine enthusiasts. Lakeside, just south of downtown, visitors will find a beautiful park that’s home to a hidden gem of a beach. Plus, there are four wineries in town and more nearby.
If you’re looking for a relaxing stay then downtown Kingsville will tick all the boxes. The main street is lined with great restaurants, coffee shops, and fun bakeries. Plus, there are a number of fantastic shops to browse.
Active travellers will find plenty of things to do in town! There’s a long-distance bike trail as well as a lots of parks in the area that are perfect for hiking or birding. In addition, history fans will love their self-guided historic walking tour. It’s a fun way to explore town and learn about its history and people.
Collingwood
The most popular town on Georgian Bay’s southern shores is Collingwood! Flanked by the Blue Mountains to the west, this port town is a favourite day trip destination in southern Ontario!
With a historic and picturesque downtown that leads up to the waters of Georgian Bay, it’s a great place to start your visit. Here you’ll find a wide array of restaurants and cafes serving a diverse list of cuisines. Shoppers will enjoy browsing all the fabulous shops. Plus, this arts town is full of galleries and street art!
There are so many more things to do in Collingwood beyond downtown! Outdoor enthusiasts will find Collingwood a year-round destination for adventure. It’s home to over 60 km of trails that are popular with hikers and cyclists. Plus, there’s plenty of skiing, boarding and tubing fun to be found at Blue Mountain Resort and nearby hills. Paddling is another favourite outdoor sport or you can sit back and relax on a boat tour.
Culture seeker will find a museum and theatre as well as a long list of fun events throughout the year. Plus, Collingwood is a great base for exploring nearby Ontario villages and towns along the Georgian Bay coast.
Fergus
Just a 10 minute drive from Elora, Fergus is another great day trip or weekend trip combined with Elora. Also situated along the Grand River, Fergus has more great shops, a stunning riverfront, and a divine handcrafted chocolate shop.
One of the best things to do in Fergus is to visit Templin Gardens. This gem sits along the Grand River in the heart of town. It’s a beautiful spot to visit in the summer with flowers all a bloom. Plus, there’s various events held here.
Its deep Scottish roots are prevalent everywhere, from its name to its main street of St. Andrew. They even hold the Fergus Scottish Festival & Highland Games every year. And if you want to learn more about this charming small town there’s a self-guided walking tour of its historic sites, even a ghost walk when Halloween nears.
Bracebridge
In the heart of Muskoka you can find another charming Ontario small town. Bracebridge is literally built around a waterfall, and can definitely be called one of Ontario’s prettiest towns. Home to multiple waterfalls, great shops, and many delicious bakeries, you’ll love wandering Bracebridge’s historic streets.
This slice of Muskoka real estate is one of the most popular summer day trips from Toronto but don’t discredit Bracebridge in the winter.
If you’re looking for things to do in Bracebridge, there’s plenty. Take a walk around the Bracebridge falls and along the Muskoka River to discover more about this small town’s past, with plaques along the way. Be sure to check out Bracebridge’s Clock Tower. This beautiful old brick building was once the post office 100 years ago. But it’s now home to galleries and boutiques.
And if you’re a waterfall chaser, Bracebridge is home to three of the best waterfalls in Muskoka. The main falls in the centre of town, Wilson’s Falls is just down the road, and High Falls is just off the Highway 400.
Related Post: Top 10 Things to do in Ontario
Bala
Home to waterfalls, cranberries, and great music, Bala is one of those charming Ontario small towns that’s bursting with things to do. Situated on the west end of Lake Muskoka, Bala is known as the Cranberry Capital of Ontario. There’s even a huge Bala Cranberry Festival in the fall.
I highly recommend visiting Muskoka in fall. While any time of year is a great time to visit Johnstons Cranberry Marsh, if you visit in the fall you can partake in the Cranberry Plunge!
Bala is small but there’s plenty to do and is an ideal weekend getaway in cottage country in the summer. You can visit the Bala Falls, take in a show at the Kee to Bala, or check out the Bala Museum which shares Lucy Maud Montgomery’s connection to Bala.
The Kee to Bala is a concert venue where for over 80 years bands have played, everyone from Duke Ellington to The Tragically Hip. Bala also has a heritage walking tour.
Discover Bala’s history through a self-guided tour of its historic buildings, cottages, and popular places. And to round out a great day, be sure to visit Don’s Bakery for some scrumptious goodies and a warm cup of Muskoka Roastery Coffee.
If you’re driving up from Toronto, try this epic Toronto to Muskoka road trip!
Gravenhurst
Gravenhurst, another Muskoka gem, is another of those Ontario small towns that are full of things to do. You can wander its charming downtown, along Muskoka Road. Here, you can start a self-guided historic walking tour that will take you through Gravenhurst’s over 100 years of history.
A few notable historic buildings that are must stops are; the Gravenhurst Opera House, Post Office, Albion Hotel, and the Bethune Memorial House.
Enjoy delicious sweets from outstanding bakeries, shop great boutiques, and then head over to the Muskoka Wharf. The wharf is home to many top Gravenhurst attractions.
On your way to the Wharf stop at Lookout Park for a sweeping view of the Wharf and Lake Muskoka. Only a short ride from downtown Gravenhurst, Muskoka Wharf is a great place to stop for a stroll, grab a bite to eat overlooking the water, or relish in a Muskoka cruise. From here you can hop aboard the oldest operating steamship, the RMS Segwun, for a wonderful cruise.
Creemore
Creemore is not only a great place to eat but also to explore. Full of delightful shops and great options to eat and dine, from bakeries to pubs. There’s even a pub that’s been around for nearly 100 years, The Old Mill House Pub. Their burgers are made fresh daily with fresh cut fries from locally grown potatoes.
This is definitely one of the charming Ontario small towns you should stop in. From great food and beer to eclectic shops with everything from antiques to fun home décor. You can even grab a self-guided tour booklet from Curiosity House Books and Art Gallery, for a mere $2 donation, to learn more of the wee town’s history. From gothic homes to North America’s smallest jail, Creemore has a rich history.
Creemore is also close to many amazing trails, including Ontario’s Bruce Trail, making for incredible hiking. Nearby you’ll find Noisy River Provincial Park, where you can hike through woodland, marsh, around lakes, and if you’re crafty discover a hidden waterfall.
Midland
Sitting on the shores of Georgian Bay, there is a wealth of things to do in Midland. It’s rich in history, surrounded by a wealth of wilderness, as well as great food and shops.
Delve into the history of the area at Sainte Marie Among the Hurons, a living museum that shows 17th century mission life. Open year round, one of the most beautiful times to visit is in November and December for First Light, when over 5000 candles line the walkways. There are also various activities and performers, all creating a magical experience.
For those who love the great outdoors head over to the Wye Marsh Wildlife Centre. The Wye Marsh is set on 3000 acres and home to great trails, wildlife, and plenty of activities to partake in year round. Or jump aboard the Miss Midland and explore Georgian Bay’s 30,000 islands.
Midland is also home to Ontario’s Best Butter Tart Festival. Rapidly growing every year, the festival takes place every June. Midland’s main stretch, King Street, becomes pedestrian only. Here you can indulge in tons of all things butter tart – from butter tart popsicles to every flavour of butter tart, enjoy street performers, and shop the various fun and homey shops.
There are also over 30 murals scattered across Midland’s downtown. Ranging from small to massive, Midland’s Murals represent everything that this Ontario small town is about, history, wildlife, and incredible people. And wandering town in search of them is a great way to explore this quaint town.
Related Post: Fun Festivals in Simcoe County
Gananoque
With an attractive downtown full of great shops and a wide assortment of restaurants, Gananoque is a pleasure to wander.
Its rich history is still apparent in its heritage buildings and museums. From the Playhouse Theatre, a jewel for theatre buffs, to taking a cruise of the 1000 Islands, you won’t be pressed for things to do and see in this small town.
Along with a variety events throughout the season and fabulous plays, Gananoque is another great small town for nature lovers. Surrounded by the Frontenac Arch Biosphere Reserve and on the shores of the St. Lawrence River, you can enjoy a hike, hop in a kayak, or take a boat cruise.
Niagara-On-The-Lake
Probably one of the most famous of the Ontario small towns is Niagara on the Lake. Located in Southern Ontario, on the shores of Lake Ontario just outside of its big brother Niagara Falls, Niagara-On-The-Lake draws people from across the globe.
You can indulge in their world class local wines, enjoy a show at the Shaw Festival, or wander its picturesque flower-lined main street. You’ll be transported back in time surrounded by stunning Victorian buildings. One dominates Queen Street, the grand Prince of Wales hotel. Even if you aren’t staying there be sure to take a peek inside.
Beyond the beauty of Niagara-On-The-Lake is its rich history. This charming small town is perfect to visit any time of year but especially makes for an ideal Ontario winter getaway! Take a walking tour of this historic small town, with guided and self-guided options available.
Head to Fort George, built by the British in the 19th century to defend against American attacks. Or, if you dare, take a ghost tour. Niagara-On-The-Lake is thought to be one of Canada’s most haunted towns.
One of the best places to step into the pages of history, and for free, is the Niagara Apothecary Museum. Originally opened in 1868, the Niagara Apothecary has been restored to appear as it did when it was a pharmacy. It’s a cool place to visit on a Niagara weekend getaway!
Related Post: Where to Find Europe in Ontario
Picton
Many visit Prince Edward County for the wine and beaches, but it’s also home to the charming small town of Picton. Set on a picturesque harbour, Picton is full of charm, from the historic architecture to the quaint cafes.
There are plenty of fun things to do in Picton! Visitors will find a ton of great shops and restaurants, as well as interesting historic sites.
Nearby you’ll also find Macaulay Mountain Conservation Area. It’s a great spot for a hike and home to a fun Prince Edward County attraction – Birdhouse City.
Another great park near Picton is Sandbank Provincial Park. Known for some of the best beaches in Ontario, Sandbanks also has hiking trails and awesome views over Lake Ontario.
Paris
It’s no Paris France but Paris Ontario is one of the prettiest towns in Ontario. Located in Brant County along the banks of the Grand River, there are endless reasons to visit Paris. There are plenty of things to do, including everything from river rafting to staying in one of the most unique hotels in Ontario.
Paris is one of those cute towns in Ontario that keep you coming back year after year, whether it’s for the adorable shops, the maple syrup festival, or to further explore the surrounding small towns.
Paris is one of the best small towns in Canada, not just Ontario! And it makes for the perfect destination for a weekend getaway. There’s a host of things to do in Paris but also in its neighbouring small towns and villages.
Nearby St. George is one of those nice towns in Ontario and is totted as being one of the friendliest in the province. It’s also home to St. George Apple Fest and one of the prettiest tea rooms in Ontario!
Goderich
If you’re looking for a little Europe in Ontario feel then head to Ontario’s west coast. Here, along the shores of Lake Huron, you’ll find Goderich.
Dubbed one of the prettiest Ontario towns, Goderich is full of history, great restaurants and cafes, and incredible beaches.
If you’re looking for an unforgettable Ontario summer road trip then head to Huron County, it’s home to some of the best beaches in the province.
More Ontario towns to visit near Goderich include; Grand Bend, Blyth, Wingham, and Bayfield.
Bonus: Stratford
Okay, hear me out! While many dub Stratford as one of the best towns in Ontario they are wrong. It’s a city. However, it most certainly has all the trappings of a charming small town with the cozy vibe, historic downtown, and hyper local shops and restaurants! It totally feels like a small town!
So, if you’re looking for areas of Ontario to explore then I highly recommend Stratford! Set along the picturesque Avon River in Perth County, a visit to Stratford will make you feel like you’ve been transported to a quaint English town.
It’s best known for its theatre festival but there are so many amazing things to do in Stratford! Whether you’re looking for enjoying the arts, like galleries and theatre, or indulging in the best food, Stratford has it all! Even outdoor enthusiasts will love the hiking trails, paddling the Avon River, and wandering the many gardens.
Beyond the Stratford Festival, be sure to add the Gallery Stratford, Shakespearean Gardens, and Stratford Perth Museum to your Stratford itinerary!
Stratford is also a must-visit for foodies! There are a ton of incredible restaurants that range in cuisine from Thai to Canadian! Plus, they also have a couple of tasty foodie trails! These self-guided tours bring you to many of the great food stops, cafes, and restaurants across town. There’s a Chocolate Trail and a Bacon & Ale Trail.
More Cute Small Towns in Ontario That Should Be On Your Radar
For those like me slowly, or quickly, ticking off all the serious serene small towns across Ontario and are craving more, I have you covered! As I venture further and further in search of charming Ontario small towns I’ll be adding more to my list for you to check out!
Almonte
One Ontario small town that will make you feel like you’ve stepped into a Hallmark movie, any time of year, is Almonte. If you’re looking for small towns near Perth or Ottawa, Almonte is where you want to go!
Less than an hour west of Ottawa, this charming Eastern Ontario town it’s one of the best Ottawa day trips!
Almonte has a wealth of history, cafes, and shops. With the Mississippi River running through it (No, not that one), a waterfall, and plenty of trails around, this scenic mill town has something for everyone.
Other small towns near Ottawa to check out include Merrickville, Arnprior, and Manotick.
Listowel
There are a ton of great small towns in Perth County and one of them is Listowel. It’s one of those hidden gem small towns to visit in Ontario!
Here you’ll find the perfect blend of nature meets town with various trails running around and through it as well as a lovely downtown that’s filled with great local shops, cafes, and even street art!
Other small towns in Perth County to check out include Michell, St. Marys, and Milverton.
Haliburton
The charming small village of Haliburton is a gem in Ontario’s Highlands! As part of cottage country in Ontario it’s a great destination in the summer but it’s also perfect in the winter.
There’s a ton of awesome things to do in Haliburton and area for outdoor adventurers! But you’ll find something for everyone! Downtown Haliburton is home to art galleries, great restaurants, and a host of fun events and festivals.
In the surrounding area you’ll find breweries, lookouts, and the Haliburton Forest & Wild Life Reserve, which is a must visit!
Port Perry
Set on Lake Scugog, Port Perry makes for a great day trip from Toronto. This charming Ontario small town is all a buzz in the summer. You’ll find a host of things to do in Port Perry! There are a bunch of great restaurants and cafes, fabulous shops, and a theatre. There’s also a nice park that wraps around the lake that’s perfect to wander or picnic.
Campbellford
One of eastern Ontario’s cutest small towns is Campbellford. It’s known best as the site of one of Ontario’s top roadside attractions, the giant toonie! However, there are so many great things to do in Campbellford!
If you’re a foodie, Campbellford is a prime location! Here, you’ll find the World’s Finest Chocolate factory as well as Empire Cheese. Plus, downtown is one of the best donut shops in Ontario, Dooher’s!
Campbellford is also home to Ferris Provincial Park. The park is home to the epic Ranney Gorge Suspension Bridge as well as Ranney Falls!
Blue Mountain Village
Famous for skiing in the winter and summer shopping, Blue Mountain is one of the most charming villages in Ontario! Located just outside Collingwood, there is a ton of things to do in Blue Mountain Village all year long. From fun winter events like Agora and the Christmas Market to fabulous patios, you’ll love a wander through this pretty hillside resort village.
Other small towns near Blue Mountain include Thornbury and Meaford.
Best Ontario Small Towns near Toronto for Day Trips
For those looking for cute small towns near Toronto then you’ll find plenty! Within one to two hours of the city area a ton of great towns that are ideal for day trips!
Shakespeare – Just outside Stratford, Shakespeare is a quaint spot for a quick day trip from Toronto. Downtown you’ll find antique shops, a lovely tea room, British shop, and a brewery.
1.5 hours west of Toronto
Erin – One of the top places in Caledon is also one of the nicest towns in Ontario! Erin gives off fun Irish vibes and has tons of things to do! It’s home to great boutiques, restaurants, a tea room, and has the Elora Cataract Trailway running through it.
1 hour northwest of Toronto
Elora – If you’re looking for Ontario small towns to visit in fall then head to Elora! While anytime of year is a great time to visit, in the fall there’s Monster Month and epic fall colours in the Elora Gorge. There’s plenty of things to do in Elora like go for afternoon tea, shop, hike, and more!
1.5 hours west of Toronto
Port Stanley – On the shores of Lake Erie, Port Stanley is one of Ontario’s small towns that are close to Toronto. Best known for its sweeping beach, Port Stanley is also filled with antique shops, art galleries, a theatre, and more!
2 hours southwest of Toronto
Orangeville – You’ll find a ton of fun things to do in Orangeville! There’s something for everyone, from outdoor activities to theatre. The charming downtown is filled with wonderful shops, restaurants, art, and even a mini waterfall! And just outside downtown are a bunch of great hiking trails.
1 hour northwest of Toronto
St. Jacobs – If you’re looking for cute small towns near Waterloo then you’ll love St. Jacobs! This quaint small town is best known for it’s large Market and railway history. You can still take a ride on the scenic train! Downtown you’ll find cute shops, cafes, murals, and picturesque trails.
1.15 hours west of Toronto
Dundas – If you’re looking for small towns near Hamilton then head to Dundas! Set at the bottom of the Niagara Escarpment, Dundas has a charming and historic downtown. However, it’s best known for nearby waterfalls.
1 hour southwest of Toronto
Port Hope – Set along the shores of Lake Ontario, is the historic downtown of Port Hope. It’s celebrated for having the best-preserved main street in Ontario. It’s filled with 19th century architecture, shops, cafes, and parks.
1 hour east of Toronto
Books to Help You Plan Your Small Town Ontario Adventure
Are you looking for more information to help plan your small town Ontario trip? There are a host of great books that will inspire you to dig deeper into Ontario. But I’ve done the work for you! Here are a few books to check out.
Backroads of Ontario – where you’ll discover incredible places and hidden gems that you’ll find on the backroads of Ontario. Including a few of these small towns as well as the scenic drives to take to get you there.
Top 160 Unusual Things to See in Ontario – if you’re on the hunt for more interesting places to visit and things to see during your Ontario travels then this is a fun book to pick up.
Ontario’s Ghost Town Heritage – is you’re looking for those long forgotten charming small towns then this is the book for you! Discover some of Ontario’s strange and incredible ghost towns, and their interesting history.
Discover Ontario – in this book you’ll read about stories from the people and places that make up Ontario. There’s everything from unusual places to interesting people and the book shares their history and more.
Ontario Small Towns Bucket List
Tobermory
Paris
Elora
Goderich
Perth
Niagara-On-The-Lake
Collingwood
Kingsville
KIncardine
Southampton
Creemore
Gananoque
Midland
Gravenhurst
Unionville
Bracebridge
Collingwood
Stratford
Little Current
Bala
Do you have a favourite small town in Ontario?
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