Do you love cute towns and charming villages? These are the best small towns in Ontario to visit. Whether you’re planning a road trip around Ontario or seeking some of the best Ontario beaches this summer, I’m sure you’ll stumble upon some beautiful and adorable communities along the way.
As a local expert and longtime travel blogger residing in Ontario, I’ve visited so many cute towns in Ontario over the years. I’m so excited to share my favorites with you. There are small towns near Toronto, small towns near Ottawa, and pretty villages all over the province.
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Many of these destinations are historic, have gorgeous natural features, or other unique attributes that make them fantastic places to visit. Others have really fun community gatherings or festivals each year to celebrate what makes them locally famous.
Almonte is right up there with the most beautiful towns in Ontario. It’s one of the best small towns near Ottawa that you can visit on a day trip or a road trip. It is a historic mill town with a beautiful river running through it. One of the best things to do in Almonte is go for a stroll on the Almonte River Walk, a boardwalk beside the river.
In town, there are many picturesque shops, cafes, and restaurants. Wander past the old architecture with a coffee in your hand. Almonte is a great place to spend the day, although you can likely hit up a few Ontario small towns in one day (Almonte, Merrickville, and perhaps even Perth if you time everything out just right).
Before you head out of town, make sure you stop at Healthy Food Technologies. They are a donut company that’s managed to discover a way to bake donuts at 50-70% less fat than regular donuts. They have a wide selection of vegan doughnuts, too.
Recommended Place to Stay: Perth Parkside Inn and Spa in Perth
Bath
You might have heard of Bath in England, but there’s a Bath, Ontario, too. It will be a bit of a running theme through this article as you’ll discover many small towns in Ontario are named for famous ones in Europe. Bath is a delightful and quaint town in Ontario on Lake Ontario.
There are a number of adorable shops in town, including galleries, gift shops and a bookshop. Stop for a meal or a coffee in town, too. Don’t miss Anderwood Studio, Lakeside Studio Gallery, Books on Main, and the Lodge Coffee House.
Relax in the local parks by the waterfront. Centennial Park has an adorable little bridge and you’ll also see many ducks and geese. As Bath is such a small town and you’ll likely see it all in an hour, it is the perfect stop before taking the ferry across to Amherst Island.
Recommended Place to Stay: Seasons Gallery Retreat in Napanee
Bayfield
Bayfield combines one of the most beautiful small towns in Ontario with some of the bluest waters you’ll ever see. Gazing out to Lake Huron, you’ll swear that you’re in the Caribbean and not Ontario. Bayfield is a community in the municipality of Bluewater in Huron County.
From Clan Gregor Square, a pretty greenspace in town, venture down Main Street to all of the shops, restaurants, and cafes. Rosie’s Ice Cream Shoppe is my favorite place to stop for ice cream as there’s always a vegan soft service flavor available. Don’t miss all of the boutiques with wonderful gifts. Coffee lovers, grab a cup of coffee at Shopbike Coffee Roasters.
Walk to the end of the street and take the Mara Street Walkway down to the marina. From the marina, you can soak up the sunshine at the Bayfield Pier Beach (one of the best beaches in Ontario) and take a stroll to the end of the pier. You’ll be totally amazed by these turquoise blue waters.
Recommended Place to Stay: The Ashwood Inn in Bayfield
Best Small Towns in Ontario: Bracebridge
Bracebridge is one of the best small towns in Ontario as it’s a pretty village surrounded by beautiful nature. Bracebridge is home to five waterfalls and an assortment of hiking trails, including the Trans Canada Trail. One of those waterfalls, Bracebridge Falls, is right in the middle of town. The town was quite literally built around this waterfall!
There are many shops, restaurants and cafes to check out in Bracebridge in “Muskoka’s Downtown”. Go for a walk down the main street towards the waterfall. On the way, there are many historic plaques where you can learn about the history of the town. Several historic sites include its Clock Tower, Woodchester Villa, and the Silver Bridge.
Recommended Place to Stay: Inn at the Falls in Bracebridge
Dundas (Hamilton)
I can easily state that this is one of the best small towns to live in Ontario because I grew up there myself. For many, many years, Dundas was its own small town. In recent years, it was amalgamated into Hamilton, so it’s part of the city of Hamilton now. However, it’ll always be Dundas to me.
There are so many things to do in Dundas like go shopping on the main street downtown, go for a walk at the Dundas Driving Park, or attend one of the annual festivals (the Dundas Cactus Festival is the big one!).
Aside from the quaint downtown core, Dundas is best known for its beautiful conservation areas and hiking trails. The Dundas Valley Conservation Area is always a treat to visit with its extensive trail system, the Hermitage ruins, and the old Victorian train station. Dundas also has two waterfalls (Tews Falls and Websters Falls), as well as amazing lookout point called the Dundas Peak.
Recommended Place to Stay: The SoMa Furnished Residences in Hamilton
Beautiful Towns in Ontario: Elora
Elora is one of my favourite small towns in Ontario, and it’s the perfect weekend getaway from Toronto or Hamilton. Elora is a beautiful village with a great combination of outdoor adventures and small town charm. There’s a stunning gorge, many parks and green space, and a quaint downtown core.
You can see all of the best things to do in Elora in my travel guide. To give you a brief overview, you definitely need to experience the Elora Gorge and the Grand River, the shops of downtown Elora, afternoon tea at the Wild Tart, and all of the quirky art work around town.
There are several festivals in Elora, such as the Elora Festival, Riverfest Elora, Elora’s Monster Month and Christmas in Elora. In the summer, don’t miss the Elora Farmers Market. For a luxurious vacation, pamper yourself at the Elora Mill with a spa day.
Recommended Place to Stay: The Etherington Suites in Elora
Fergus
Just down the road from Elora, you will find the Scottish town of Fergus, Ontario. Spend a weekend in Elora and don’t miss stopping in Fergus on your way back home. The towns of Elora and Fergus have been named Ontario’s most beautiful villages.
Fergus is best known for its scenic river lookouts surrounded by a limestone gorge, as well as its annual Scottish Festival and Highland Games. Don’t miss admiring the Fergus Templin Gardens or browsing some of the town’s antique shops for treasures. Of course, there are also Scottish gift shops where you’ll find all kinds of goodies.
Recommended Place to Stay: The Etherington Suites in Elora
Galt (Cambridge)
Galt is technically a part of Cambridge Ontario, but it’s a small village within a city that you must visit. Originally known as Shade’s Mills, Galt is full of amazing old architecture, majestic Victorian homes, and beautiful waterfront paths.
There are a few colourful murals and street art works to see when you’re walking around Galt. Stop by the boutiques, cafes and restaurants while you’re there. The Cambridge Farmers Market operates out of Galt. It’s one of the oldest markets in Canada, dating back to 1830.
Southworks Antiques is an incredible shopping experience, especially if you love nostalgia and collectibles. It’s the largest antique mall in Canada, and it’s located right in the middle of Galt.
Recommended Place to Stay: The Grand River Getaway in Cambridge
Best Small Towns in Ontario: Gananoque
Gananoque is the Canadian gateway to the 1000 Islands, and it’s the largest community in the region. With that said, it’s still an adorable small town (a population of about 5,000 year long residents) that you’ll want to wander around and explore on foot or bicycle.
The town’s name is pronounced Gan-an-aw-kway, but it’s simply known as Gan to the locals. It’s right along the St. Lawrence River, so you’ll be able to soak up those beautiful waterfront views from the local parks and restaurant patios.
Be sure to go for a walk on the Gananoque Trail System, which takes you through local parks and city streets. Enjoy a pint on the patio at Gan Brewing Company. Go shopping on Gananoque’s main street and see if you can find all of the painted flower barrels. Of course, you’ll want to explore the Thousand Islands themselves, which are among Canada’s most beautiful islands.
Joel Stone Park has a tiny lighthouse and it’s a great place to relax beneath a shady tree. Naturally, you won’t want to miss taking a boat tour or kayaking tour of the 1000 Islands when you’re here. You can also go hiking at the nearby Thousand Islands National Park.
Recommended Place to Stay: Colonial Resort & Spa in Gananoque
Prettiest Towns in Ontario: Goderich
Goderich has gained the reputation as “the prettiest town in Canada“. It has historic charm, natural beauty, and astoundingly stunning sunsets. First, go for a wander around The Square, the hub of Goderich. The town has a distinct layout and lots of intriguing architecture. You can download a free audio guide by Huron County Historic Walking Tours for more insight.
Walk down to the lighthouse and then down to the beach. The town actually has a few beaches, so you can walk between them all and choose your favourite one. Goderich is also one starting point for the Guelph to Goderich Rail Trail. Walk across the Menesetung Bridge for amazing scenery of Goderich and beyond.
Recommended Place to Stay: Benmiller Inn and Spa in Goderich
Grand Bend
There are so many amazing things to do in Grand Bend, Ontario, especially during the summer months. One of the most picturesque freshwater lakes, Lake Huron, has a stretch of coastline called Ontario’s Blue Coast. Grand Bend and Grand Bend Beach are right along this expanse of white, powdery sand with twinkling, Caribbean blue waters.
Grand Bend isn’t just home to one of the best beaches in Ontario. There are numerous adventures and reasons to visit with something for every kind of traveler: the outdoor adventurer, the foodie, and the beach bum. Check out the local wineries, browse the shops on the main drag, and you need to stay for those gorgeous Grand Bend sunsets.
Recommended Place to Stay: Colonial Hotel and Suites in Grand Bend
Greater Napanee
Greater Napanee is a fantastic home base for exploring Napanee, Bath, Amherst Island and beyond. There are so many cute towns to visit in Ontario within Lennox and Addington County. Napanee itself has a wonderful downtown core with historic buildings, shops, and restaurants. A few of my favourite spots are Starlet, Coffee Cravings, and Ellena’s Cafe and Pantry.
Go for a walk through Springside Park and along the waterfront boardwalk to Napanee Conservation Park, admiring Napanee Falls on the way. The Waterfront River Pub has a pontoon boat cruise departing from its dock where you can pair a meal and a drink with beautiful scenery.
Recommended Place to Stay: Seasons Gallery Retreat in Napanee
Best Small Towns in Ontario: Huntsville
Huntsville is an amazing home base for hikers and outdoor adventurers. You’ll find some of the best Ontario parks near Huntsville, as well as great walking paths right in town. Just outside of Huntsville, don’t miss Arrowhead Provincial Park or Hardy Lake Provincial Park for waterfalls, scenic lookouts, and incredible lake views.
For art lovers, Huntsville has a flourishing arts scene. The Group of Seven Outdoor Gallery features over 30 murals dotted throughout downtown Huntsville and Muskoka. Check out the local food and beverage scene in Huntsville, too. The Huntsville Brewhouse, Mill on Main, and Affogato Café + Gelato are all spots that I recommend.
Recommended Place to Stay: Deerhurst Resort in Huntsville
Kincardine
Kincardine is one of the prettiest towns in Ontario, especially if you love quaint downtowns, lighthouses, cozy parks and sprawling beaches. It’s known as Ontario’s Scottish Destination. Between Kincardine and Fergus, you could definitely put together a Scottish-themed road trip of Ontario.
Station Beach is the main beach in town where there’s lots of space to lay down your towels and soak up the sun. There is co-ed beach volleyball every Friday at 7pm. Furthermore, if the conditions are just right, this is one of the best spots in Canada to go surfing!
For those seeking peaceful places to go for a walk, look no further than Geddes Park. There’s a small labyrinth with a “Chalice” design, surrounded by bright and beautiful blooms. You’ll find street art all over town, whether it’s just off the main downtown strip or down by the beach. Coffee lovers, make a stop at The Daily Grind for a warm or iced beverage.
Recommended Place to Stay: Inn at the Harbour in Kincardine
Kingsville
Did you know that Kingsville is the southernmost town in Canada? It’s on the same latitude as northern California and it’s also one of the warmest places in Canada, too. In the 19th century, Kingsville was dubbed “Canada’s Paradise Garden” as it was an agriculturally productive region. It’s right on the edge of Lake Erie, and it’s home to dozens of vineyards and farms.
Even if you don’t consider yourself to be a foodie, there are so many reasons to visit Kingsville. It’s an amazing weekend getaway if you’re up for a road trip in Ontario. Spend the day at Estate of Health for a yoga class, Nordic spa circuit, or numerous spa treatments.
Visit the retail shop for Pelee Island Winery, sample some wine, and bring a few bottles home with you. There are fantastic shops in town like the Local Market, featuring handmade goods by local artisans, and Dutch Boys Chocolate. There are coffee shops, breweries, and more to visit in Kingsville, too.
Recommended Place to Stay: Inn 15 Loft Suites in Kingsville
Beautiful Towns in Ontario: Merrickville
Merrickville is one of the best small towns in Ontario as there’s so much to see and do there. For a small town, it’s bursting with historic sites and village charm. Known as “the Jewel of the Rideau”, it’s a wonderful getaway on the Kingston-Ottawa Rideau Heritage Route. Catch glimpses of the locks and the Rideau Canal, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Merrickville also has an amazing arts scene as the home of glassblowers, potters, painters and more. There are lots of boutiques and cafes on the dazzling main street, where every storefront seems to be decorated with greenery and flowers. There are even some old ruins in town that I’m sure you’ll stumble upon. I truly adored Merrickville and can’t wait to return.
Recommended Place to Stay: Merrickville Guest Suites in Merrickville
Niagara-on-the-Lake
Niagara-on-the-Lake is the best small town near Niagara Falls and almost feels completely opposite to the spectacle of Niagara Falls and Clifton Hill. Naturally, Niagara-on-the-Lake is best known for being an incredible wine region with dozens upon dozens of wineries to experience. We embarked on a wine tour with Niagara Vintage Wine tours that we loved. Also, we’ve frequented many Niagara wineries on their own, too.
Niagara region is a wonderful place to go cycling or hiking by the Niagara River. However, don’t miss simply wandering around Niagara-on-the-Lake itself. The main street is lined with boutiques, coffee shops and fine dining restaurants. Zees Grill is a fantastic restaurant, and you can also spend the night at the attached Shaw Club Hotel. The Shaw Festival is another reason why so many people love Niagara-on-the-Lake.
Recommended Place to Stay: Pillar and Post in Niagara-on-the-Lake
Otterville
Otterville is one of the most quaint towns in Ontario that you probably haven’t heard of before. It’s a historic village between Woodstock and Tillsonburg, Ontario, built around the Otter River. There are a surprising number of things to see and do considering the small size of the village, including interesting natural features and historic sites.
You can paddle on the Otter River or go for a guided historical tour of Otterville to learn from a local. Since Otterville is such a small town to explore, I suggest pairing a visit to Otterville with the nearby town of Tillsonburg, Ontario.
Recommended Place to Stay: Holiday Inn Express in Woodstock
Best Small Towns in Ontario: Paris
Paris is one of the most beautiful towns in Ontario, named the Prettiest Little Town in Ontario by Harrowsmith Magazine. Once you catch a glimpse of Paris, it will surely capture your heart, too. Start on Paris’ main street and don’t miss dining on one of the waterfront patios. There are also lots of little shops and cafes, naturally!
Beyond downtown Paris, there are many adventures to have on the Grand River. You can go kayaking, tubing, or canoeing on this expansive waterway. For those who love walking and cycling, there are lots of trails in Paris to explore, too. You’re not too far from Brantford if you’re looking to incorporate some city travel with small town travel.
Oh, and one more thing! If you are a knitter or crafter in any capacity, a stop at Mary Maxim is a must. It’s a huge warehouse with every kind of crafting material and project you can imagine. It’s worth the trip to Paris just for Mary Maxim!
Recommended Place to Stay: Arlington Hotel in Paris
Best Small Towns in Ontario: Perth
Perth is one of the prettiest towns in Ontario, hands down. While I won’t pick favourites, it’s hard to find a more beautiful Ontario town than Perth. After all, there are more than 100 designated heritage buildings in one place! Scenic views? Check. Expansive greenspaces and parks? Check. Waterfront dining, nature trails and wetlands, unique shops…Perth really has got it all.
Perth is also home to several craft breweries and distilleries. Hop between Laketown Brewing Co, Perth Brewing, and Top Shelf Distillers for a boozy getaway. There are also lots of galleries in Perth, annual festivals and events (like the Perth Night Market) and there’s a farmers market every Saturday.
Recommended Place to Stay: Perth Parkside Inn and Spa in Perth
Picton
Still looking for more small towns to visit in Ontario? Picton needs to be on your list. Nestled in the darling Prince Edward County in southeastern Ontario, Picton is best known for its historic buildings, unique town hill, and Main Street shopping district. It lies along the Bay of Quinte where you’ll find lots of interesting destinations like Brighton, Trenton and Belleville.
Some of the best attractions in Picton are the Macaulay Heritage Park, Regent Theatre, and the House of Falconer. Go for a stroll at several local parks, including Hill Park with its scenic views of Picton Harbour. You can even spend the night in the Old Cobourg Jail. The King George Inn has repurposed those old jail cells and some of them still have that authentic jail feel.
Recommended Place to Stay (aside from King George Inn): Stone Carriage House in Picton
Port Credit (Mississauga)
If you are searching for small towns near Mississauga, it doesn’t get much closer than this. Port Credit was once its own village, but it’s now a neighbourhood within Mississauga. As Port Credit has such a small town feel, I have no problem including it in this guide to the best small towns of Ontario.
For many years, Justin and I lived in Port Credit, so we are the experts on this area of Mississauga. Here are all of the best things to do in Port Credit. In brief, you must explore all of the parks and trails, stop by the pretty rhododendron garden (it’s free!), shop and dine in Port Credit, and perhaps even attend one of the local summer festivals (Mississauga Waterfront Festival, Paint the Town Red, and Port Credit Busker Fest are a few of them).
While it is easy to fill your day with activities and attractions in Port Credit, you can combine it with a visit to Mississauga. Here are more things to do in Mississauga that you may enjoy, beyond this pretty small town setting.
Recommended Place to Stay: Waterside Inn in Port Credit
Best Small Towns in Ontario: Port Hope
Port Hope is one of the best small towns in Ontario to visit, and it’s even been called “Ontario’s favourite small town”. It streets are lined with preserved 19th century architecture, and there are so many boutique gift shops, bakeries and cafes.
If you can time it out properly, visit Port Hope during the fish migration season. Watch thousands of fish swim against the current, miraculously flinging themselves uphill over the rocks. Port Hope is also home to the IT Walking Tour (the Stephen King IT movies were filmed here), the Waterfront Trail, and two beautiful beaches.
Recommended Place to Stay: Plantation House BnB in Port Hope
Beautiful Towns in Ontario: Port Stanley
Looking for cute Ontario towns? There are so many amazing things to do in Port Stanley, as well as the nearby village of Sparta. Located on the shores of Lake Erie in Elgin County, Port Stanley is one of the best small towns in Ontario for its quaint downtown, beautiful beach, and interesting rail history.
I suggest spending a day at one of its two blue flag beaches (the main Port Stanley Beach or Little Beach), renting a bike for the day, taking a train ride, or browsing the shops. There are lots of fantastic restaurants in Port Stanley with lots of great vegan eats, too. In the nearby village of Sparta, you can go for a stroll through lavender fields, go for some wine tastings, and go hiking at Yarmouth Natural Heritage Area.
Recommended Place to Stay: Kettle Creek Inn in Port Stanley
St. Jacobs
Just outside of Kitchener-Waterloo, St. Jacobs is one of the prettiest towns in Ontario. There’s a thriving arts scene with colourful murals all over town, as well as handmade pottery by Conestoga River Pottery. This pottery shop is located inside old grain silos. It’s really cool! Also, stop by the EcoCafe next door for some of the best coffee.
St. Jacobs is most known for the St. Jacobs Farmers Market where you’ll find fresh produce grown by the local Mennonite farmers, as well as baked goods and prepared meals. There are also nearby factory outlet shops, antique shops, and even more shopping on the main street downtown. If you’re planning to visit Waterloo, be sure to make the short drive to neighbouring St. Jacobs.
Recommended Place to Stay: Delta Hotels by Marriott in Waterloo
Best Small Towns in Ontario: St. Marys
I stumbled upon the town of St. Marys on a trip to Perth County, and I’m so glad that I did. The town’s slogan is “The Town Worth Living In”, so you know that it must be nice if everyone wants to move here! Downtown St. Mary’s has an abundance of old limestone buildings, as well as rows of shops, restaurants and cafes. Snapping Turtle Coffee Roasters is a great pit stop for a caffeinated beverage.
Walk across the bridge to see Little Falls and the Thames River. St. Marys is also home to the Canadian Baseball Hall of Fame for sports fans, which preserves Canada’s baseball history. I suggest stopping in St. Mary’s for an hour or two when you travel to Stratford.
Recommended Place to Stay: Perth County Inn in Stratford
Prettiest Towns in Ontario: Stratford
Stratford is one of my very favorite road trip destinations in Ontario. I manage to find myself in Stratford at least once a year. There’s so much to see and do in Stratford that you can visit multiple times and never get bored. Don’t miss seeing the Shakespeare Gardens or taking a paddleboat out on the Avon River.
Stratford is the best destination for foodies as it’s home to quite the restaurant scene for such a small place. I loved finding all of the vegan food in Stratford as there’s something for every taste and preference. You can even plan a trip to Stratford in the winter. I suggest visiting around Christmastime as the shops are all decorated and there are winter lights festivals, too.
Of course, Stratford is home to the famous Stratford Festival, although there are many other festivals happening throughout the year. There’s the Stratford Summer Music Festival, Springworks, and an assortment of other annual festivities.
Recommended Place to Stay: Perth County Inn in Stratford
Cute Towns in Ontario: Thornbury
Thornbury, Ontario is a sleepy little town on the coast of Georgian Bay. While you might have heard of popular cities and towns like Collingwood, Wasaga Beach, and the Blue Mountains, Thornbury remains a little under the radar.
There’s a bustling downtown that has “main street” vibes. You’re steps away from great walking and biking trails with unique features. Thornbury is also a great base for all kinds of adventures in the region.
You can spend your day alternating between outdoorsy activities, enjoying a delicious meal, and getting cozy at a local cafe. Don’t miss stopping at Good Grief Coffee Roasters, Thornbury Craft Co Cider & Brew House, or the Thornbury Bakery Cafe.
Recommended Place to Stay: Royal Harbour Resort in Thornbury
Tobermory
Tobermory is a small town at the northern point of the Bruce Peninsula. Drive up Highway 6 until you essentially can’t drive any farther without hopping on a ferry. It’s about 300km northwest of Toronto. Tobermory is most famous for the Bruce Peninsula National Park and the Grotto. Admire rugged caves and cliffs surrounded by some of the most turquoise waters I’ve ever seen.
Tobermory is known as the “fresh water scuba diving capital of the world” for its intriguing shipwrecks in Fathom Five National Marine Park, Canada’s first national marine conservation area. Take a boat cruise over to Flowerpot Island for a couple of hours to see the unique rock formations.
Back in Tobermory, spend some time exploring Little Tub Harbour. Tobermory Brewing Company serves up fresh craft brews, and there are all kinds of little cafes and shops to browse. The harbour itself is very beautiful and also home to the northern terminus of the Bruce Trail.
Recommended Place to Stay: Cedar Vista Motel in Tobermory
Unionville (Markham)
Unionville is a former village and now part of Markham, Ontario, though I still count it as one of the best small towns in Ontario. Although it’s more like a neighbourhood now, it still retains that quaint village charm.
Founded in 1794, many of the original buildings from the 1800s are still in use today. The main draw of Unionville is its beautiful and historic main street. Davidson’s Garage and the Village Post Office are now home to amazing restaurants, and the former Unionville General Store and Queen’s Hotel are unique retail shops.
Unionville also hosts many events each year, so try to plan your visit during a festival. Some fun events each year include the Bandstand Music Nights, the Unionville Market, and the Unionville Festival. There are also pretty parks and museums to check out. Parking is always free in Unionville, too, so there’s no excuse not to check out one of the prettiest towns in Ontario.
Recommended Place to Stay: Toronto Markham Marriott in Markham
More Things to Do in Ontario, Canada
Looking for more travel guides for Ontario? We’ve got you covered! You can also find all of our Canada travel blog posts in one place, along with a handy map.
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Lauren is the full-time travel blogger and content creator behind Justin Plus Lauren. She started Justin Plus Lauren in 2013 and has travelled to 50+ countries around the world. Lauren is an expert on vegan travel as one of the very first vegan travel bloggers. She also focuses on outdoor adventure travel, eco and sustainable travel, and creating amazing travel itineraries for cities and small towns.