How to Have the Best Day in Halton Hills, Ontario

Justin and I moved to Halton Hills, Ontario a few years ago, and we love highlighting the best things to do in this vibrant destination. It's one of the best small towns in Ontario with many hidden gems.

Halton Hills is made up of several little towns, villages and communities. You can take a trip to Halton Hills to visit Georgetown, Glen Williams, Acton or other rural settlements, all in the same day.

Halton Hills is best known for its beautiful nature and amazing hiking trails, though there are many unique things to do in town as well. There are a few main street downtown areas with idyllic little shops and local events. Take a look at our guide to small businesses in Halton Hills.

If you are looking for even more ideas for things to do in Halton Hills, check out my list of the top 25 highlights of Halton Hills, a day trip itinerary completely devoted to wellness and self-care in Halton Hills, and a guide to the best Christmas and holiday events in Halton Hills.

Thinking about taking a day trip in Ontario? This itinerary showcases local attractions, activities, places to shop, weekly events and where to dine. You'll venture through Georgetown, Glen Williams and Acton. Glen Williams to Georgetown is less than a 5 minute drive, while the drive to Acton is only 10-15 minutes (don't worry, it's worth the drive to Acton!).

Let's start our day in Georgetown, Ontario. This is actually where Justin and I live. While there are so many businesses to check out in downtown Georgetown, we'll start there. Feel free to browse all of the shops (we have more in this list), though here are a few that we'd like to put the spotlight on.

Lyla's House

Lyla's House is the newest coffee shop in downtown Georgetown and it's a lovely spot to meet with friends. The ambiance is bright, vibrant and chic with a sizable seating area and art covering the walls. Lyla's House serves Detour Coffee, which is one of my absolute favourite coffee shops and coffee roasters from where I grew up, the town of Dundas.

In addition to delicious coffee and baked goods (I was delighted to discover that they have a vegan muffin), there are shelves of creations by local artisans for sale. There's coffee merchandise, jewelry, hair accessories, books, mugs, things for your home and more.

This cafe is similar to the really cool and stylish ones that you'd find in Toronto, but with a warm and welcoming small town vibe. We were immediately greeted when we arrived and I can't wait to return. After all, I've got my punch card now and I'm well on my way to a free coffee!

InSpirit Centre

InSpirit Centre in downtown Georgetown is a metaphysical spiritual boutique where you'll feel the positive vibes as soon as you enter the shop. There's a wide selection of crystals, incense, candles, jewelry, tarot cards, handmade gifts and so much more.

We met with co-founder Barbara Ford who is a spiritual advisor, physic medium, holistic practitioner, and paranormal expert. She has over 25 years of experience and is considered one of Canada's top paranormal experts. Barbara has Indigenous heritage and receives guidance from Indigenous Elders and Leaders. I'm thankful to have received a sage smudging from Barbara, a cleansing ceremony for the spirit.

In addition, I received a mini reading from Barbara as well. I opted for the traditional tarot cards, and I was really surprised with just how accurate my reading was! It was a really uplifting experience, and I recommend going in for a mini reading if you're curious.

Both Barbara Ford and Christine Ford do readings, whether you're looking to gain some clarity in your own life or connect with loved ones who have passed. Barbara is also well known for her healing techniques and practices Reiki, Therapeutic Touch and Crystal Healing & Touch for Health.

You can also host a Psychic Party whether it's at InSpirit Centre or within the comfort of your own home. On top of the readings, InSpirit Centre has a number of upcoming workshops, including meditation sessions, tea & tarot workshops, crystal workshops and more.

Helson Gallery

The Helson Gallery is located inside the Halton Hills Public Library building on the second floor. Situated within a former church, it's a beautiful setting for an art gallery and it's free to visit anytime. Art changes monthly in the Sisnett Lobby, and there are always rotating exhibitions inside the main gallery.

Right now, the "Strictly Local" exhibit celebrates the Town of Halton Hills' 50th anniversary. This exhibition features local artists and their unique takes and perspectives on the town. Every work of art, no matter the medium, represents Halton Hills, whether it's a landscape or abstract work.

We noticed some artworks highlighting local landmarks, establishments, and peaceful places in nature. All in all, the exhibit contains 54 works of art by 48 local artists. Coming up next at Helson Gallery is the Halton Black History Awareness Society's Emancipation Art Exhibition.

Lily Thai Cuisine

Lily Thai Cuisine offers authentic Thai and Cantonese cuisine in a relaxed environment. It is owned and operated by a local couple in picturesque downtown Georgetown. The restaurant is located inside a charming old home, though we love sitting out on the spacious patio.

The menu is very vegetarian and vegan-friendly with several tofu and vegetable dishes. Just ask your server if the dish of your choice can be prepared vegan. I ordered the Pad See Ew (made with rice noodles as they were out of flat noodles in that moment) and Justin ordered the Thai Pepper with tofu and vegetables.

Day Trip to Halton Hills: Glen Williams, Ontario

Now that we've spent the late morning and early afternoon in Georgetown, it's time to go to the neighbouring hamlet of Glen Williams. This article covers everything to do in Glen Williams. While it's easy to spend the whole day in this tiny town, we're going to spend just a few hours here. Here are a couple of recommended activities.

Beaumont Mill Antiques

Beaumont Mill Antiques & Collectibles is a massive antique shop located inside an old Beaumont Knitting Mill, a turn of the century limestone mill. There are multiple rooms and levels featuring items for sale by dozens of different vendors. You'll find a wide variety of antiques, decor and wares for every collection.

There's everything from retro comic books and pinball machines to original oil paintings and vintage lighting. It's easy to spend hours here browsing the vinyl records, vintage signage, books, retro clothing and items for the home. If you're looking for something unusual or offbeat, chances are that you'll find it here.

There are always new items coming into stock, so you'll discover something new every time you visit. Treat yourself or find a memorable gift for that special someone in your life. There are so many treasures inside this historic building, and it's one of the best places to go antiquing in Ontario.

Williams Mill Creative Art Studios

Williams Mill Creative Art Studios is one of the best places to visit in Glen Williams. It's a working art studio and art gallery all in one. Williams Mill is divided across several heritage buildings. Each artist has their own booth and workspace. Visit the glass blowing studio, stone cutters studio, and art studios for painters, jewelers, textile artists, ceramic artists and more.

When you're taking a day trip to Halton Hills, spend the afternoon taking a workshop with one of Williams Mill's artists. Skytree Smith offers glass blowing workshops where Skytree will guide you through the process of creating art made from glass. It's pretty incredible how glass is created and you'll be an active participant. No experience is required.

Professional artist Pauline Gladstone offers an Artful Adventure Workshop. It's a four hour workshop, no experience is required, and all the supplies are included. It's geared towards couples, groups of friends and families (adults and children ages 9+) who are looking to have some creative fun. You'll come away with great memories and a finished work of art that you made!

Day Trip to Halton Hills: Acton, Ontario

From Glen Williams, let's drive down the road to the town of Acton. There are some unique shops in downtown Acton, and then it's off to the Acton Outdoor Market. Please note that this only takes place on Thursday. Otherwise, you can go to the same park for a walk or go paddling on the pond (canoe rentals are available in the summer).

Black Rose Guitar House

Black Rose Guitar House is a musical instrument shop primarily featuring electric guitars, acoustic guitars, amps, pedals and accessories. You can also bring your guitar by for set ups, restringing and repairs. When you walk into the shop, you'll immediately notice the walls of guitars including some rare finds. There's also hats and western wear, too.

Owner Peter McCracken has a long history in the music business in Acton and Georgetown. He's owned Pine Cone Music Studios in Georgetown and worked with Eastwood Guitars, meeting many notable Canadian musicians over the years. Stop by Black Rose Guitar House if you're in the market for any guitar gear or accessories.

Acton Outdoor Market

The Acton Outdoor Market takes place every Thursday at Prospect Park from the beginning of June to the Thursday before Thanksgiving. Much like a traditional farmers market, there are booths with local produce, fresh baked goods and other local food products.

There are also local artisans and crafters with handmade wares, and booths offering locally produced beer, wine and cider. The park has plenty of free parking, and there's plenty of room to browse and wander. While you browse the stalls, you can listen to live music by different performers each week.

There might even be a food truck or two when you visit. Stop by the Visit Halton Hills booth if you have any questions about events in town. The Acton Outdoor Market happens on Thursdays from 4 to 7pm. This is a great way to wrap up your day trip to Halton Hills.