These are 11 beautiful places to visit in Ontario.
It's finally Summer in Ontario, which means endless adventures and things to do. It felt like summer couldn't come fast enough and now, it's finally here. Everything is open again and the streets are filled and busy with people looking to get out and travel. There is nothing quite like exploring around your own home. Ontario is such a beautiful province with more than enough places to see.
There is no shortage of stunning places to visit and explore in Ontario, especially in the summer weather. If you're like me, your calendar is completely booked from now until the end of summer with places to explore. From beaches to charming small towns to provincial parks - there's something for everyone on this list.
Whether you're looking for a short day-trip or want to get out of the city on a couple hours worth of road tripping, I've got you covered. Here are 11 beautiful places to visit in Ontario this summer.
1. Tobermory
Tobermory is one of Ontario's most breathtaking gems and is an absolute must-see in the summer. Located 4 hours northwest of Toronto, it's absolutely worth the drive. You'll find turquoise blue water, stunning forests and picturesque views of Lake Huron.
While visiting Tobermory, stop by at the iconic Flowerpot Island where you can see the beautiful natural landscape, explore caves, head on hiking trails or visit the historic light station. Check out the Grotto or spend the day exploring Bruce Peninsula National Park.
2. Grand Bend
Located on the stunning stretch of Ontario's Blue Coast, Grand Bend is by far one of the best beaches in Ontario. With soft, fluff white sand and picturesque turquoise water, Grand Bend will have you feeling like you're on a resort beach in the Riviera Maya. It's a breathtaking beach at the end of a bustling street lined with boutique shops, restaurants and fun activities like mini golf, axe throwing, and so much more.
3. Niagara on the Lake
Niagara-on-the-Lake is a charming small town that's perfect if you're looking for a less-touristy spot near the iconic Niagara Falls. Swapping casinos and skyrise hotels for cozy bed & breakfasts and cafes, Niagara-on-the-Lake is a quaint, picturesque town surrounded by vineyards and wineries to explore.
We stayed at the Pillar and Post, where we celebrated our 2nd year wedding anniversary. We absolutely loved it. It's perfect for those looking to relax poolside, enjoy spa amenities and have a quiet, slow stay. Even if you're not staying at this vintage hotel, you can visit the beautiful Pillar and Post Gardens and enjoy the beautiful florals. There is no shortage of cozy bed and breakfasts and Airbnb's to book for your stay in Niagara-on-the-Lake.
4. Sandbanks Provincial Park
Sandbanks Provincial Park will leave you feeling like you're on a tropical vacation. With vast white sand beaches and clear blue water, you can relax and soak up the sun while enjoying the breathtaking views. The unique sand dunes make this a bucket-list worthy park to see in the summer. You can also explore the park through the lush bike trails and camp at one of the park's serene camping sites.
5. Algonquin Provincial Park
You can't spend a summer in Ontario without visiting the infamous Algonquin Provincial Park. If you're looking to escape the city and immerse yourself in serene nature and wildlife, Algonquin Provincial Park should be on the top of your summer bucket list. Algonquin Provincial Park is Canada's oldest provincial park, and covers 7,653 square kilometers of incredible, luscious forests, lakes and other picturesque landscapes.
Whether you're looking to explore Algonquin by canoe, kayak, hiking trails or by camping - there's something for everyone at this park. You can camp at one of Algonquin's campgrounds, or spend the day hiking, canoeing or bird watching.
6. Hamilton Waterfalls
Chasing waterfalls in Hamilton is a must-do during the summer, with over 100 waterfalls to enjoy across the city. Some of the most famous waterfalls include Webster Falls, Albion Falls, Sherman Falls, Tiffany Falls, and many more. You can find a list of the best waterfalls to visit in Hamilton here.
7. Toronto Islands
For a quick day-trip to get away from the bustling, busy city - the Toronto Islands are just a short ferry-ride away. The Toronto Island has three main parts: Ward's Island, Centre Island and Hanlan's Point. You can spend the day walking the scenic trails, paddle board or canoe on the lake, ride bikes through the island or soak up the sun on one of the three beaches.
8. Davis Family Farm
Located in the hills of Caledon, Davis Family Farm is home to one of Ontario's largest sunflower fields. You can take a 2km walk through the beautiful sunflower fields and take photos of the serene fields. Before planning your trip, make sure to check the Davis Family Farm Website for their days & hours of operation.
9. Elora
Experience the small-town charm of Elora by exploring the cute boutiques, quaint cafes and one of a kind restaurants. If you're looking to spend time in the outdoors, hike a trail in the Elora Gorge Conservation area to the Elora Gorge Lookout, swim in the Elora Quarry or explore the town by bike. For adventure lovers, take a raft ride down Elora's river for the ultimate adrenaline rush.
10. Pinery Provincial Park
Just 10 minutes away from Grand Bend, Pinery Provincial Park is known for its sand dunes and bluffs. Not only is Pinery Provincial Park a great place to camp, it's also the perfect park to experience a quiet, serene beach day. The beach is much more quiet than Grand Bend's main beach, and is surrounded by the stunning sand dunes and bluffs. Pinery Provincial Park also has dog-friendly beaches, making it a dog-lovers paradise.
11. Stratford
Only a short drive away from Toronto, Stratford is a picturesque town known for its yearly Stratford Festival, but this gem has so much more to offer. Hometown of Justin Bieber, Stratford is a quaint, Victorian town filled with quirky shops and boutiques, serene parks and quaint restaurants that will make you feel like you're in a romance novel (Que Book Lovers by Emily Henry).
Those are the best 11 places to visit in Ontario this summer. Have you made any plans in Ontario this summer? Where are you looking forward to exploring this season?
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