Best Small Towns in Ontario: The Ultimate Guide

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

Bracebridge

Bracebridge is one of the best small towns in Ontario as it's a pretty village surrounded by beautiful nature. It's 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

Coldwater

Visiting Coldwater is one of the best things to do in Orillia and Lake Country. Part of Severn Township, Coldwater is an adorable historic village where you can shop, dine, and appreciate the quirky public art along its main street (Coldwater Road).

Coldwater is the oldest and most historic village in Severn Township. Coldwater was once the headquarters of a 9,800 acre Ojibway territory and Indigenous Peoples lived here for many centuries.

The first settlers came to Coldwater in the 1700s. In fact, Coldwater is thought to be the second oldest settled community in Ontario (with Penetanguishene being the oldest). Can you believe that Coldwater Road is over 400 years old?

Nowadays, this rural village has a population of 1400. Talk a stroll down Coldwater Road and Mill Street to see the Coldwater Mill from 1833. Visit the shops and cafes on the main road while admiring the fairy garden and Harry Potter inspired artworks out on display.

Recommended Place to Stay: Fairfield by Marriott Inn and Suites Orillia

Creemore

Creemore is a delightful village with a picturesque main street, filled with historic architecture and locally owned shops. Be sure to stop by the art galleries, Curiosity House Books bookshop, and Mad River Pottery for some handcrafted gifts.

Go for a stroll to soak up Creemore's charms. No visit to Creemore is complete without a stop at the famous Creemore Springs Brewery.

Founded in 1987, this brewery has humble beginnings in the middle of town, located inside a repurposed hardware store. Long before craft breweries became a staple in every town, Creemore Springs Brewery began attracting visitors and day trippers to the town throughout the 90s and 2000s.

You can take a brewery tour and of course, sample their refreshing pints. Whether you're taking a wander around town, attending a local festival or farmer's market, or even participating in some outdoor activities (kayaking down the Mad River is a favourite!), Creemore has all the makings for an amazing outing.

Recommended Place to Stay: Mountain Ash Farm Country Manor

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

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

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

Georgetown

There are so many wonderful things to do in Georgetown, one of Ontario's best small towns to visit. Georgetown is part of Halton Hills, along with Acton, Glen Williams, Norval, Stewarttown, and other tiny rural communities.

I suggest starting at Georgetown's Main Street to visit the shops, restaurants, cafes and the art gallery inside the town's library. We live in Georgetown and it's really a great community to visit and to call home.

I suggest coming here on a Saturday morning to experience the town's farmers market. Also, don't miss checking out the Furnace Room Brewery for a pint, and we really love attending their comedy nights.

Georgetown is also renowned for its nature and hiking trails. The Hungry Hollow Trail is right in town. I love walking across the boardwalks and viewing wildlife around the wetlands.

There's also the nearby Silver Creek Conservation Area, Limehouse Conservation Area, Scotsdale Farm and others, including the impressive 900km Bruce Trail that meanders through Halton Hills.

Recommended Place to Stay: Best Western Halton Hills

Glen Williams

Glen Williams is a cute hamlet in Halton Hills - yes, it's too small to even be called a small town or village. You can easily pair a trip to Glen Williams with a visit to Georgetown within the same day.

We're pretty local to Glen Williams living only five minutes away, so we're there all the time. It never gets old. Some of the best things to do in Glen Williams include stopping for a coffee at Main Street Market or Kit's Little Kitchen, exploring the art studios and glassblowing studios at Williams Mill Creative Art Studios, and having lunch at the Copper Kettle Pub.

In the summer, you can even bring your own tube and go for a float down the Credit River, much like a lazy river.

Recommended Place to Stay: Best Western Halton Hills

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

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

Meaford

Meaford is a beautiful small town in Ontario located on the postcard perfect shores of Georgian Bay. Go for a walk along the waterfront through Memorial Beach Park.

Of course, Meaford is also the ideal place to base yourself if you love hiking and adventures. The Bruce Trail is on your doorstep and there are many opportunities for hiking, cycling and watersports.

Explore Meaford's historic downtown with its inviting shops, cafes, restaurants and galleries. Pom Pom is a super cute coffee shop, Purrsonally Yours is a yarn shop for all the crafty folks, and Penny Lane Organics is also worth checking out.

I suggest visiting Meaford in the fall for their Scarecrow Invasion. The streets are lined with scarecrows as this is one of the biggest and best fall festivals in Ontario.

Meaford aims to celebrate their harvest season, especially the apple harvest as they're known as the "Apple Capital of Ontario". The scarecrows are also coming early this year on June 15th, 2024 as Meaford celebrates its 150th anniversary.

Recommended Place to Stay: Irish Mountain Suites

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

Neustadt

Neustadt, Ontario is a hidden gem and idyllic village in Grey County. Absorb the quaint small town feel through walking past its preserved stone buildings and historic sites.

There are many little stores, cafes and antique shops to browse on your day trip to Neustadt. Don't miss the adorable decorated walking path called "The Trail of Dreams".

Another gem in Neustadt is the Neustadt Springs Brewery, one of Canada's oldest brewery. I'm also fairly certain it's the only cave brewery in Ontario.

They offer guided tours on weekends to showcase their traditional brewing techniques, and you're always welcome to stop by for a pint of their craft beer.

Recommended Place to Stay: Grey Rose Suites in Hanover

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 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. 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

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

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

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

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

Southampton

Southampton has a special place in my heart. My family spent so many summers in Southampton when I was growing up, and I even lived up there for a short while in my early 20s.

Justin's family also happens to be from Southampton and his parents have a cottage there, so we're there all the time to visit family members or soak up its small town charms.

While Southampton has grown more popular over the years than ever before, I'm happy to see the transformation from a sleepy town to a bustling one. Located on the shores of Lake Huron, Southampton has beautiful, long stretches of beach (both sandy and rocky).

Take a boat trip out to Chantry Island to take a tour of the lighthouse. Of course, go for a wander around town for the boutique shops, cafes, restaurants, and the town's brewery.

Recommended Place to Stay: Driftwood Haus

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

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

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

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.

If you're visiting Ontario's small towns around the holidays, Unionville is one of the best villages for Christmas events and holiday cheer.