Are you planning on visiting Canada soon? To get you started, here are some movies set in Ontario, along with TV shows, novels, and graphic works that spotlight the province’s history, atmosphere, and landmarks. In fact, Ontario is one of the most sought-after filming locations in North America. From Toronto’s dynamic downtown to the charming small towns of the countryside, movies set in Ontario offer cinematic inspiration that can enrich any travel itinerary.
What Hallmark movie town is in Ontario?
Almonte, often referred to as an Ontario Hallmark town, makes it a popular destination for filmmakers looking to capture the magic of a small-town Christmas. Just 40 minutes from Ottawa and perfect for a day trip from Toronto, Almonte attracts filmmakers for Hallmark holiday films. Productions like Christmas Festival of Ice, The Rooftop Christmas Tree, Christmas Around the Corner, and Unlocking Christmas all chose this charming town as their backdrop. Its historic 19th-century architecture, scenic river views, and festive ambiance create the perfect backdrop for these heartwarming movies set in Ontario, drawing visitors eager to experience its cinematic charm firsthand in one of the most beautiful villages in Ontario.
300 Reasons to Love Toronto by Jean-Michel Dufaux
This guide offers an immersion into the cultural and architectural riches of Toronto, seen through the eyes of a city enthusiast.
Schitt’s Creek
This TV show follows a once-wealthy family, now broke, forced to move to Schitt’s Creek, a small town they had once bought as a joke. The production team filmed the comedy series in several Ontario locations. They used the real-life Rosebud Motel (Hockley Motel in Mono), Rattlesnake Point, and Applewood Vineyard in Stouffville – popular spots for movies set in Ontario.
Take This Waltz
Directed by Canadian Sarah Polley, this film tells the story of a freelance writer navigating a turbulent relationship in the vibrant neighborhoods of Toronto during the height of summer. Filming took place in Kensington Market, Little Portugal, and Trinity Bellwoods Park, among others.
Indian Horse by Richard Wagamese
Told through the eyes of Saul Indian Horse, a young Ojibwe boy torn from his family and placed in a residential school, this is a powerful story of resilience and identity. Finding solace in hockey, he rises through the sport’s ranks while battling the traumas of his past.
The Collected Essex County by Jeff Lemire
Through interwoven stories of a small rural Ontario community, this graphic novel trilogy explores the silences and regrets haunting multiple generations, capturing solitude and resilience with tenderness.
The Shape of Water
She discovers an amphibious creature and devises a daring plan to save it. Though set in Baltimore, The Shape of Water was filmed in Ontario. Key locations include the Elgin Theatre, Lower Bay Station, Keating Channel, and Hamilton City Hall. These iconic spots are among the most visually striking backdrops in movies set in Ontario.
Did you know Suits was filmed in Toronto, Canada?
This legal drama follows the meteoric rise of Mike Ross, a brilliant young man with photographic memory, who lands an associate position at a prestigious law firm – without a law degree. Though set in New York, the series filmed almost entirely in Toronto. The crew shot key scenes at the Bay-Adelaide Centre, Fairmont Royal York, and Luma restaurant.
Bon Cop, Bad Cop
This buddy cop comedy highlights the cultural contrasts between Québec and Ontario, with filming locations in both provinces.
Niagara
Niagara, a Québec-made drama by Guillaume Lambert, follows three estranged brothers on a road trip to Niagara Falls. They reunite after their father’s death, navigating grief, old wounds, and unexpected humour. Though rooted in Québec cinema, the film was shot in Ontario. Niagara’s iconic mist adds drama to its emotional mix of tension, laughter, and heartfelt moments. Its cinematography stands out among recent movies set in Ontario.
Cat’s Eye by Margaret Atwood
In this novel, a painter returns to Toronto for a retrospective exhibition of her work. Her return to the city of her childhood forces her to revisit haunting memories and witness how the metropolis has changed.
In the Skin of a Lion by Michael Ondaatje
This mesmerizing novel intertwines the lives of immigrants who built Toronto in the early 20th century. It unveils the silent struggles of forgotten workers behind the city’s major projects.
Where is the Umbrella Academy filmed?
Seven young superheroes reunite to prevent the apocalypse. Many Ontario landmarks appear in this fantasy series, including LIUNA Station, Breezy Corners diner, the Royal Connaught in Hamilton, and Toronto’s Gardiner Museum.
The Suicide Squad’s many Toronto filming locations
Toronto got a full Hollywood makeover for the explosive action flick The Suicide Squad. The city became an apocalyptic playground. Harley Quinn’s chaotic shopping spree took place at the CF Toronto Eaton Centre. The final showdown at Union Station used its grand staircases for jaw-dropping action scenes. The antiheroes regrouped at Ki Modern Japanese Bar, tucked in the bustling financial district. The Harbourfront Centre, with its lakeside views, added even more cinematic flair. Who knew Toronto could moonlight as a supervillain’s stomping ground in one of the boldest movies set in Ontario?
Amazing Race Canada
Ontario has been a star player in Amazing Race Canada. The province delivers epic challenges that test endurance and strategy. Contestants race past Parliament Hill, face the misty roar of Niagara Falls, and explore Tobermory’s crystal-clear waters. This mix of urban buzz and wild beauty creates unforgettable moments. From dizzying heights to tricky puzzles and tasty local bites, Ontario keeps racers – and viewers – on their toes.
