Whether you’re looking for villages surrounded by forest, perched on one of Ontario’s thousands of lakes, or set alongside one of the province’s famous canal systems, you’ll be delighted to learn that they all exist in abundance across the province. The beauty of Ontario’s small towns and villages lies in the notion that there quite literally is a little something for everyone, regardless of what it is you’re specifically looking for… Historic architecture, parks, cuisine, or a cute wood cabin that is calling your name, there’s a town that can match your travel ambitions!
It’s not just “charm” that you’re going to find in Ontario’s wealth of small towns and villages, it’s also, in a very real sense, reprieve. It’s a slower pace of life, where conversations don’t feel rushed, you see people out walking at a leisurely pace. And nobody seems to be busily finishing their coffee to be “on to the next thing.”
Here is a list of some of my favourite beautiful villages in the province. From great places like Stratford and Elora, to lesser-known gems like Perth, these postcard-perfect towns are the perfect addition to an Ontario road trip, whether you’re exploring the beautiful parks or simply on a Toronto day-trip!
Best towns in Ontario worth taking a day trip to from Toronto
Orangeville
Distance from Toronto: a little over 1-hour drive
Orangeville is a fantastic small town near Toronto. It’s action is centered on its main street, Broadway. Perhaps you can visit on your way to the Blue Mountains? Filled with incredible dining options and things to do, I’d recommend you stroll along main street and pop into one of Orangeville’s many local shops, from clothing to niche gifts. So walking up and down the historic architecture of Main Street and popping your head in and out of stores is perfect here.
If you’re visiting in the morning, an excellent coffee shop is Mochaberry Coffee & Roastery. For lunch or dinner, grab a bite at Bluebird Cafe and Grill or Greystone’s Restaurant (one of the most underrated restaurants in Ontario, in my opinion). To add a bit of culture into the mix, take a look at which show is on the docket at Theatre Orangeville!
Port Hope
Distance from Toronto: 90-minute drive
Port Hope is located close to the shores of Lake Ontario, and it’s so picturesque that many movies and TV shows have filmed here for a quintessential small town backdrop. Keep on eye out on where that next Hallmark movie you watch is actually located, as it might just be in Port Hope!
Personally, I’d recommend starting at the western part of Walton Street, the main street in town. It’s higher up and will give you beautiful views of Lake Ontario and of town. Then, head to The Main for a coffee or tea, and walk the streets and play photographer for a little bit.
After that, you could visit other great places like Beamish House, a classic pub in town, or consider the Social Bar + Table for a more hearty meal and elevated experience.
Kleinburg
Distance from Toronto: 30 to 60-minute drive, depending on traffic
Kleinburg is definitely one of the most beautiful villages in Ontario and the closest to Toronto out of this list. In short, an unexpected surprise considering how close it is the big city.
Its main street along Islington lines up with heritage buildings that I’d suggest are very much akin to cottages. Whenever I visit Kleinburg, I have my professional camera with me, and that’s an attestation to the photogenic nature of some of these more classic, cottage-style buildings.
To experience Kleinburg, I’d pop into the beloved Ontario chain, Balzac’s (and this is one of the cutest Balzac’s in the province) for coffee before heading to Old Firehall Confectionery for a creative sweet treat. The Old Firehall Confectionery is as popular as it comes amongst Ontario families.
You simply can’t visit Kleinburg without visiting the McMichael Art Gallery. It is not only on a beautiful property with stunning hiking trails along the Humber River, but houses some of the most famous works of art created by Ontarians and Canadians, including many pieces by The Group of Seven.
If you’re hungry after your visit, it’s worth noting that Kleinburg has a fantastic array of Italian restaurants located on the main strip, headlined by Belsito Trattoria, but La Baraca and Vini are also great choices.
Niagara-on-the-Lake
Distance from Toronto: 1.5-hour drive
This popular spot is not exactly a hidden gem, but definitely worth the trip nonetheless, Niagara-on-the-Lake is one of the oldest settled towns in Ontario. Consequently, the historic architecture is elite here; some of its buildings even date back to 1700s. It’s also home to the oldest pub in Ontario, the Olde Angel Inn. As with many towns and villages in Ontario, Niagara-on-the-Lake’s main street is alluring with its many quaint antique shops and restaurants, but I’d actually urge you to get off the main strip as well, and to walk up and down the residential streets which are replete with some of the cutests homes in the province.
After some initial exploring, I’d recommend heading down to Queen’s Park, and taking a bike ride along the Niagara Parkway scenic waterfront before heading on an outdoor adventure to wine country. You have no shortage of options in arguably Ontario’s most famed wine growing region!
Elora
Distance from Toronto: 1.5-hour drive
A beautiful limestone town perched along the Grand River, Elora has been named one of the most beautiful villages in Ontario many times, and for good reason.
Wander through its historic streets near Metcalfe and Mill Street for some shopping. Head for a meal or hit the spa at the award-winning Elora Mill. Walk across the Grand River for some photos at one of its many bridges. You don’t want to miss the chance to visit Elora Brewing Company as well – they make excellent beer. They’re also one of those Ontario breweries that is focused on building out an outstanding food menu that reflects what’s being grown locally.
The Elora Gorge Conservation Area is also a big draw thanks to its natural beauty and unique rock formations, though can get busy in the summer months!
What is the prettiest small town in Canada? Visit these beautiful villages elsewhere in Ontario!
Stratford
Distance from Toronto: 2-hour drive
Hands down one of my favourite villages in Ontario, and I’ll tell you why. Firstly, it’s a very cute core, with one craft brewery after the other, and the restaurant scene here is absolutely exceptional. I’d recommend heading to renovated church with a unique vibe, Revival House.
It’s worth noting that one of Canada’s most prominent arts and culture festivals takes place here, the Stratford Festival. They’ll be some Shakespeare, but in recent years they’ve expanded their repertoire to include a wide variety of plays, all of them exceptionally executed. It runs from April to October, typically.
Be sure to walk along the Avon River, do a proper walk of the downtown core. And if you’re into cooking, I’d recommend staying at Stamp House Stratford, where you stay at a bed and breakfast. A great place to learn to cook (and eventually eat like a king) all under one roof.
Huntsville
Distance from Toronto: 2.5-hour drive
Huntsville is perhaps best known for being “the heart of Muskoka.” I’d recommend starting by walking up the main street, and taking note of Huntsville’s impressive array of art galleries, restaurants and shops.
From here, I’d head straight to “Lions Lookout,” which offers charming views of the downtown core. You can drive or hike up here, and it’s an especially special spot in the autumn.
One pro tip: Muskoka Brewery isn’t actually located in Huntsville, but rather on the way, just north of Gravenhurst. So be sure to add that as a stop on your map if you’re keen to visit. Finally, just south of Huntsville is Sugarbush Hill Maple Farm, and it’s a maple syrup lover’s dream come true.
Amherstburg
Distance from Toronto: 4-hour drive
Amherstburg is an addition to this list for the history lovers out there. This town was established a few hundred years ago, though it began to make a name for itself when Fort Malden was built here by the British in 1796 to discourage an American invasion.
For true history fanatics, the Park House Museum, built in 1796, is an excellent window into the past and to understand what life was like for those who ended up here (for military reasons or otherwise). This is also a fantastic place to come and gain a better comprehension of The Underground Railroad. That’s why you should also pop by the Amherstburg Freedom Museum when you’re there.
Perth
Distance from Toronto: 4.5-hour drive
I may be biased, but Perth will always be my most favourite small village in Ontario. Not only is my dad’s family from Perth, but the town has been voted the prettiest town in Ontario many times over. It is often even in discussions for the prettiest town in the country.
Whether you’re wandering along Gore Street, or walking through scenic Stewart Park and admiring the Tay River, Perth is a wonderful place to spend the day. I always recommend people coming to town visit Maximilian’s for a traditional Hungarian schnitzel. Or pop into Perth Brewery or Top Shelf to sample some local beer and spirits. I think Stewart Park, in particular, is an example of how a public space can become the centerpiece of a town, and end up being a place of leisure, but also a boon to the economy because it’s perfect for hosting a multitude of festivals.
Almonte
Distance from Toronto: 5-hour drive
Not too far from Perth is the beautiful town of Almonte. It takes place along the Mississippi River, with stunning buildings between the river and Mill Street.
While you’re here, I’d recommend heading to Equator Coffee Roasters and taking a walk along the Riverwalk or Ottawa Valley Rail Trails. Then, after you’ve worked up an appetite, to head to Cafe Positano for dinner!
Cover photo credit: visitstratford.ca
