Best Places to Visit in Ontario | Travel Guide (2024) | Things to Do, See & Eat
Ontario Travel Guide
Quick overview of Ontario with our expert tips and insights. Jump to any section.
Welcome to Ontario, Canada! Located in the eastern part of the country, Ontario is the most populous province and offers a diverse range of experiences for travelers. From the bustling city life of Toronto to the stunning natural beauty of Niagara Falls, Ontario has something for everyone. Explore the vibrant arts and culture scene in Toronto, visit the iconic CN Tower, or take a stroll along the picturesque waterfront. For nature enthusiasts, Ontario boasts numerous national parks, including Algonquin Provincial Park, where you can hike, canoe, and spot wildlife. Don't forget to indulge in Ontario's culinary delights, such as poutine and butter tarts, and immerse yourself in the warm hospitality of the locals. Whether you're seeking adventure, relaxation, or a taste of Canadian culture, Ontario is the perfect destination for your next travel adventure.
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Best Places To Visit in Ontario
1. Toronto: As the largest city in Canada, Toronto offers a vibrant and diverse experience for visitors. From iconic landmarks like the CN Tower and the Royal Ontario Museum to the bustling streets of Chinatown and the trendy neighborhoods of Queen West and Kensington Market, there is always something exciting happening in Toronto. The city also boasts a thriving arts and culture scene, with numerous theaters, galleries, and music venues to explore. Don't forget to indulge in the city's diverse culinary offerings, ranging from international cuisines to local delicacies.
2. Niagara Falls: Located just a short drive from Toronto, Niagara Falls is a must-visit destination for its breathtaking natural beauty. The falls themselves are a magnificent sight to behold, with millions of gallons of water cascading down every minute. Visitors can take a boat tour to get up close to the falls or enjoy panoramic views from observation decks. Additionally, the Niagara region is known for its wineries, offering the opportunity to sample some of Ontario's finest wines.
3. Ottawa: As the capital city of Canada, Ottawa is rich in history and culture. The iconic Parliament Hill, with its stunning Gothic Revival architecture, is a must-see attraction. Visitors can also explore the Rideau Canal, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which transforms into the world's largest skating rink during the winter months. Ottawa is also home to numerous national museums, including the Canadian Museum of History and the National Gallery of Canada, showcasing the country's diverse heritage and artistic achievements.
4. Kingston: Situated on the shores of Lake Ontario, Kingston is a charming city with a rich maritime history. The city's historic downtown area is lined with beautifully preserved limestone buildings, housing boutique shops, restaurants, and art galleries. Visitors can explore Fort Henry, a 19th-century military fortress, or take a leisurely stroll along the waterfront. Kingston is also known for its vibrant live music scene, with numerous venues hosting local and international acts.
5. Stratford: Known as the home of the renowned Stratford Festival, this small city is a haven for theater enthusiasts. The festival, which runs from April to October, showcases world-class performances of Shakespearean plays and other classic works. In addition to its theatrical offerings, Stratford boasts picturesque streets lined with Victorian architecture, charming boutiques, and cozy cafes. The city's beautiful gardens and parks also provide a tranquil escape for nature lovers.
6. Hamilton: Located on the western tip of Lake Ontario, Hamilton is a city that seamlessly blends natural beauty with urban attractions. The Royal Botanical Gardens, one of the largest in the world, offers stunning displays of flora and fauna. Visitors can also explore the vibrant art scene in Hamilton, with numerous galleries and studios showcasing local talent. The city's waterfront area, known as Pier 8, is a popular spot for dining, shopping, and enjoying scenic views.
7. London: Situated in southwestern Ontario, London is a city with a rich history and a vibrant cultural scene. The city is home to numerous museums and galleries, including the Museum London and the McIntosh Gallery, showcasing a diverse range of art and artifacts. Visitors can also explore the picturesque Victoria Park, which hosts various events and festivals throughout the year. London is also known for its thriving music scene, with numerous venues offering live performances by local and international artists.
8. Windsor: Located on the southernmost tip of Ontario, Windsor is a city that offers a unique blend of Canadian and American influences. The city is known for its close proximity to Detroit, making it a popular destination for cross-border shopping and entertainment. Visitors can explore the Windsor Riverfront, which offers stunning views of the Detroit skyline, or visit the renowned Caesars Windsor casino. Windsor is also home to a vibrant arts community, with numerous galleries and theaters showcasing local talent.
9. Thunder Bay: Situated on the shores of Lake Superior, Thunder Bay is a city that offers a wealth of outdoor activities and natural beauty. Visitors can explore the stunning Sleeping Giant Provincial Park, known for its rugged cliffs and scenic hiking trails. The city is also home to the Terry Fox Monument, honoring the Canadian hero's Marathon of Hope. Thunder Bay's vibrant arts scene is showcased in its numerous galleries and theaters, offering a diverse range of cultural experiences.
10. Sault Ste. Marie: Located on the border between Ontario and Michigan, Sault Ste. Marie is a city steeped in history and natural beauty. Visitors can explore the Sault Ste. Marie Canal National Historic Site, which played a crucial role in the development of the region. The city is also known for its stunning waterfront, offering picturesque views of the St. Marys River. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy activities such as fishing, hiking, and boating in the surrounding area. Sault Ste. Marie is also home to the Art Gallery of Algoma, showcasing a diverse collection of Canadian art.
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Food & Drinks To Try In Ontario
1. Poutine: This iconic Canadian dish originated in Quebec but is popular all over Canada, including Ontario. It consists of crispy french fries topped with cheese curds and smothered in rich gravy. It's a must-try comfort food.
2. Butter tarts: These sweet treats are a Canadian specialty and a favorite in Ontario. They are small pastries filled with a gooey mixture of butter, sugar, and eggs. Some variations include raisins or pecans. They are incredibly delicious and perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth.
3. Peameal bacon sandwich: Also known as a "Toronto sandwich," this classic Ontario dish features peameal bacon, which is pork loin rolled in cornmeal. It's typically served on a bun with mustard or other condiments. The result is a flavorful and hearty sandwich that is a local favorite.
4. Nanaimo bars: Although Nanaimo bars originated in British Columbia, they are widely enjoyed in Ontario as well. These no-bake bars consist of a chocolate and coconut base, a creamy custard filling, and a chocolate ganache topping. They are a popular dessert and a must-try for any sweet lover.
5. Ice wine: Ontario is known for its ice wine production, which is a type of dessert wine made from grapes that have been frozen on the vine. The freezing process concentrates the sugars, resulting in a sweet and flavorful wine. It's a unique and delicious drink to try while in Ontario.
6. Craft beer: Ontario has a thriving craft beer scene, with numerous breweries offering a wide variety of unique and flavorful beers. Whether you prefer hoppy IPAs, rich stouts, or refreshing lagers, you'll find something to suit your taste. Don't miss the opportunity to explore the local craft beer scene and try some delicious brews.
7. Maple syrup: Ontario is home to many maple syrup producers, making it the perfect place to indulge in this sweet and natural treat. Whether drizzled over pancakes, used as a glaze for meats, or incorporated into desserts, Ontario's maple syrup is of exceptional quality and a true Canadian delicacy.
8. Butter tarts: These sweet treats are a Canadian specialty and a favorite in Ontario. They are small pastries filled with a gooey mixture of butter, sugar, and eggs. Some variations include raisins or pecans. They are incredibly delicious and perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth.
9. Ontario wines: Ontario's wine regions, such as Niagara-on-the-Lake and Prince Edward County, produce excellent wines. From crisp whites to full-bodied reds, Ontario wines are gaining international recognition. Take a wine tour, visit vineyards, and sample the local wines to experience the unique flavors of the region.
10. Craft cocktails: Ontario's cities, such as Toronto and Ottawa, have a vibrant cocktail culture with numerous bars and mixologists creating innovative and delicious drinks. Whether you're a fan of classic cocktails or prefer creative concoctions, Ontario's cocktail scene has something for everyone. Don't miss the chance to try some expertly crafted cocktails during your visit.
Best Time To Visit Ontario
The best time to visit Ontario, Canada is during the summer months of June, July, and August. During this time, the weather is warm and pleasant, with average temperatures ranging from 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F). It is also the peak tourist season, so you can expect crowded attractions and higher prices for accommodations. However, the longer daylight hours allow for more outdoor activities and exploration of Ontario's natural beauty, including its numerous lakes, national parks, and stunning landscapes. If you prefer milder weather and fewer crowds, the shoulder seasons of spring (April and May) and fall (September and October) are also great times to visit. During these months, you can enjoy comfortable temperatures ranging from 10°C to 20°C (50°F to 68°F) and witness the beautiful fall foliage or the blooming of spring flowers. However, it is important to note that the weather can be unpredictable during these seasons, so it is advisable to pack layers and be prepared for sudden changes. Winter (December to February) in Ontario can be extremely cold, with heavy snowfall and freezing temperatures. However, if you enjoy winter sports such as skiing or snowboarding, this can be an ideal time to visit as Ontario offers excellent winter resorts and outdoor activities.
Flight Calendar For Ontario
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Transportation To Ontario
There are several transportation options to Ontario, Canada. You can travel by air and land at one of the major airports in Ontario, such as Toronto Pearson International Airport or Ottawa Macdonald-Cartier International Airport. From there, you can take a taxi, rent a car, or use public transportation to reach your destination within Ontario.
If you prefer traveling by train, you can take VIA Rail, which offers services to various cities in Ontario, including Toronto, Ottawa, and Niagara Falls.
Another option is to travel by bus. Companies like Greyhound and Megabus provide bus services to Ontario from various locations in Canada and the United States.
If you are coming from the United States, you can also drive to Ontario by crossing the border at one of the many land border crossings between the two countries.
Once in Ontario, you can also use public transportation systems like the Toronto Transit Commission (TTC) in Toronto or OC Transpo in Ottawa to get around within the cities.
Overall, there are multiple transportation options available to travel to and within Ontario, Canada, depending on your preferences and starting location.