25 Best Things to Do in Halton Hills That You'll Love

If you're looking for an amazing day trip from Toronto, there are so many fun things to do in Halton Hills. Only about an hour from downtown Toronto (and 1.5 hours from the USA border), escape the city to the small towns and villages of this wonderful community.

Halton Hills consists of two urban town centres, Georgetown and Acton; three hamlets, Glen Williams, Stewarttown and Norval; several smaller settlements and the Halton Hills Premier Gateway employment area. The slogan of Halton Hills is "small town living at its best!" and as residents of Halton Hills, we have to agree!

Across the entire community, Halton Hills has a population of around 60,000 people. Recently, the real estate listing portal, Point2Homes, analyzed 100 major towns and cities to find that Halton Hills is the third happiest municipality in Canada (Milton is first and Caledon is second).

So, small town living, lovely local small businesses, beautiful nature and countryside, and a happy place to visit...what more could you ask for? Choose any of the following best things to do in Halton Hills, whether you visit Georgetown, Acton, Glen Williams, or other places in the community to build your own amazing day trip itinerary.

Visiting around the holidays? Check out our guide to visiting Halton Hills during Christmas for some amazing holiday events and festivities.

Best Things to Do in Halton Hills: Georgetown

Georgetown is our hometown. Even though it's not a big place by any means, we're always finding new discoveries and activities here. While we have a shopping mall and a long stretch of retail stores on Highway 7, Georgetown has an adorable historic downtown, too.

There's also a scenic trail through the middle of town, an art gallery, and a brewery. Add some annual festivals and the local farmers market into the mix, and it feels like there's always something happening in town. Here are the best things to do in Georgetown, Halton Hills.

Georgetown Farmers Market

The Downtown Georgetown Farmers' Market takes place on Saturday mornings from June to October (8:00am-12:30pm). It's been an institution in Georgetown since 1993 and it feels like the whole town comes out for this morning market. It's the best way to purchase fresh produce straight from nearby Ontario fields for your culinary masterpieces.

Local farmers will have fresh fruits and veggies, syrups and jams, and flowers and plants. There are also creations by local artisans and crafters, like handmade botanical soaps and lotions, unique ceramic wares and more. You can expect to find whatever's in season at the market, so it's continually changing throughout the summer.

Downtown Georgetown Shops and Cafes

Since you're already in downtown Georgetown checking out the farmers market, you should definitely explore the shops and cafes that line its main street and side streets. There are quite a few popular spots in town, like Whimsy (they've got vegan-friendly Dole whip ice cream), Foodstuffs (health food store), and Young's Pharmacy has a gift section at the front of the store with some unique finds. I'm going to place the spotlight on a couple more businesses that you need to check out in downtown Georgetown.

J&S Records is a hidden gem in Georgetown. Did you know that there's a full record store here? It's located in the basement of the hobby shop, The Hooded Goblin. They've got a wide selection of pre-loved vintage vinyl and brand new records from an eclectic mix of artists.

Foliage is Georgetown's one-stop shop for houseplants. Their window proudly states, "welcome to the jungle!". They offer a curated selection of tropical plants, air plants, cacti, succulents, and plant accessories. Foliage also offers workshops, potting services, plant styling and more.

Silvercreek Socialhaüs is a cozy coffee shop in the heart of downtown Georgetown serving organic, fair-trade coffee. There's a great selection of espresso beverages with many syrup options, as well as light bites and baked goods. They take pride in serving vegan and gluten-free meals and desserts, too.

Helson Gallery

The Helson Gallery is a small art gallery in downtown Georgetown, located inside the public library. It's free to visit this public art gallery. Home to the impressive Helson Collection of Canadian and European paintings, Frederick A. Helson's gift to the Town of Halton Hills is certified as Cultural Property by the Canadian Department of Heritage for its significance.

This collection of art reveals how Canada's artistic identity was forged during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. In addition to the permanent collection, there are rotating exhibits of local art, private collections and travelling exhibitions.

Furnace Room Brewery

Furnace Room Brewery offers the best craft beer in Georgetown. If local craft beer is your jam, you'll love this microbrewery right here in Halton Hills. The brewery started in the basement of a Georgetown home (right next to the furnace). The brewers entered their beer into a competition and took home 1st and 2nd place in their categories.

Nowadays, you'll find Furnace Room Brewery at their own location across from the GO Station. There's an ample amount of seating room upstairs and a patio of picnic tables outdoors to enjoy a pint and light snacks. You can also buy their beer to take home. Furnace Room Brewery occasionally has live music nights, pizza nights, trivia, bingo and more.

Hungry Hollow Trail

While there are many fantastic conservation areas with hiking trails outside of the towns and settlements in Halton Hills, the Hungry Hollow Trail winds through the middle of Georgetown. There are several different paths that encompass the trail, starting at Cedarvale Park and ending at Hall Road on the other side of town.

In total, there are 7km of trails to explore that are beautiful in all seasons. Expansive boardwalks across wetlands and forested sections of the trail connect to local neighbourhoods. It's the perfect place to go for a nature walk in Georgetown.

Best Things to Do in Halton Hills: Glen Williams

Glen Williams is a cute hamlet in Halton Hills, built around the Credit River and founded in 1825. Many of the buildings here are original, dating back to the 1840s and 1850s. Several of the historic buildings are included on The Canadian Register of Historic Places. 

If you love visiting small towns in Ontario and you're seeking a fun day trip, I highly recommend checking out Glen Williams. We think that a half day is the perfect amount of time to spend in Glen Williams, though you could fill an entire day with activities. Here are the best things to do in Halton Hills, Glen Williams style.

Williams Mill Creative Art Studios

When you visit Glen Williams, stopping by Williams Mill Creative Art Studios is an absolute must. It's an entire destination in itself! Williams Mill unites visitors with the artists themselves as this is a working art studio and art gallery all in one.

Williams Mill is divided across several heritage buildings where each artist has their own booth and workspace. There's a glass blowing workshop, a stone cutters studio, and art studios for painters, jewellers, textile artists, ceramics and so many more.

Copper Kettle Pub

Copper Kettle Pub is Glen Williams' neighbourhood pub with delicious food, locally brewed beer, and the best patio in town. Even though the entire village feels like a little oasis, their patio is yet another wonderful place to soak up the town's idyllic vibes. Soak up the sunshine on warm sunny days or get cozy by the wood burning fireplaces when it's chillier out.

I love how they offer local craft beer on tap and by the bottle, so you can discover microbreweries you may not have known to exist. The Copper Kettle Pub has a couple of items on the menu that are vegan or can be modified to become vegan: mixed green salad, Mediterranean chickpea salad, and the black bean and chickpea burger.

Kit's Little Kitchen

Kit's Little Kitchen is owned by Kathryn, aka Kit, who lovingly creates simple, homemade meals and desserts. You'll find sweet treats, breakfast and lunch, and ready-to-eat meals if you don't feel like cooking that night.

Justin and I stopped by Kit's Little Kitchen for some coffee. They offer a wide variety of plant-based milk options, as well as many flavour shots to personalize your beverage. I ordered one of my go-to drinks, an iced Americano with oat milk and vanilla. Yum!

Main Street Market

Main Street Market is a cafe and handmade market all in one. The market place features handmade goods from artisans and small businesses both locally and across Canada. There's clothing, housewares, potted plants and so much more. They also have a great selection of specialty food items, gluten-free items, hand-tied bouquets, and freshly baked bread.

The cafe emphasizes that it has really good coffee (it's awesome!). I think it's pretty cute that they call it a "Canadiano" instead of an "Americano". For those who don't drink coffee or caffeinated beverages, you'll also find tea, apple cider, hot cocoa, lemonade, cold pressed juices and smoothie bowls.

Antiques and Vintage Shopping

What would a historic village be without an antique store? If you're on the hunt for antiques, vintage items for your home or unique collectibles, you need to stop by the historic Beaumont Knitting Mill building. There are two excellent shops within the same building where you'll surely find many treasures.

Beaumont Mill Antiques and Collectibles has two levels and multiple rooms packed full of intriguing finds. You never know what you might stumble upon! Whether it's a home essential that completes a room or a new addition to your collection, you could easily spend hours uncovering the goodies and delights here.

Feathered Nest Furnishings features upcycled, new and previously loved home décor and furnishings. They have an interesting system where the price becomes reduced the longer it stays in the shop. Don't wait too long before buying that item you've got your eye on, as someone else might buy it first.

Glen Williams Parks and Nature

The Credit River winds through Glen Williams and you can catch glimpses of the river as you walk through town. The Shelagh Law Parkette is situated on the banks of the Credit River, offering a peaceful place to relax. There are a couple of benches and picnic tables where you enjoy a coffee or a picnic lunch.

Best Things to Do in Halton Hills: Acton

It's worth the drive to Acton! Do you remember those commercials by the Old Hide House? While I'm not referencing specifically that shop but the entire town itself, I'd say that it's well worth the drive to Acton. While downtown Acton is much smaller than Georgetown's, I suggest doing a little bit of shopping and then treating yourself to a meal. Then, experience the natural side of Acton at Prospect Park and Fairy Lake.

Shops and Restaurants in Downtown Acton

Acton's main street, Mill Street, is home to a charming little downtown core. There are a few unique shops and restaurants to check out when you're in downtown Acton. Vinyland is a local record store with super friendly and knowledgeable staff. There's also musical instruments, t-shirts, books and a variety of music memorabilia.

The Mexican Way is an authentic Mexican restaurant with the most delicious tacos, burritos, guacamole and more. There are vegan and gluten-free options, too. We love that the guacamole comes served in a unique volcano stone (plus, it's delicious!).

Tanner's Restaurant and Catering

Tanner's Restaurant and Catering offers pub fare and classics that are all made in house. From burgers and pasta to a separate vegan menu, Tanner's has a selection that will please every taste. I ordered their "Chik'n Quesadilla" (soy based chik'n diced and sauteed with peppers and onions in our flour tortilla with vegan cheese) that was so yummy.

Tanner's also has daily features, specials, and pint night on Tuesdays ($1 off every pint of beer). They have ample indoor seating and a spacious patio where you can enjoy live music on occasion. Their patio is tucked away behind the restaurant like a secret garden. We loved it!

Prospect Park and Fairy Lake

Prospect Park in Acton features an outdoor space for families, residents and visitors with a picnic pavilion, leash free park, splash pad, tennis court, baseball diamond, playground and pickleball. You can also go for a walk around the tranquil and scenic Fairy Lake, an approximately 1.8km loop walking path.

During the summer season, the Holy Cow Canoe Company offers canoe rentals on Fairy Lake. Visit the Fairy Lake Paddle House to rent a canoe or kayak to paddle around this beautiful park. You can also bring your own kayak, canoe or SUP to enjoy Fairy Lake from the water.

Annual Festivals in Acton

While Georgetown has the majority of the festivals, Acton has a couple of annual events, too. The Acton Leathertown Festival takes place every summer as a celebration of the community. In addition, the Acton Fall Fair takes place every September. Established in 1913, it's known as "The best little fair in Ontario".

Best Things to Do in Halton Hills: Countryside & Small Settlements

Not only does Halton Hills have two small towns and smaller hamlets, but there's also a vast countryside and even smaller settlements that are all part of the municipality. I'll highlight a few places here that lie outside of the major centres that are worthy of a place on your itinerary.

Andrew's Farm Market and Winery

Andrew's Farm Market and Winery (aka Andrew's Scenic Acres) is 165 acres of pick-your-own fruits, flower fields and so much more. You can visit multiple times a year for different experiences, depending on what's in season.

Their Sunflower Kingdom is spectacular. There's nothing quite like being surrounded by thousands upon thousands of blooms. While you're out in the fields, go for a stroll through the corn maze, but try not to get lost!

Pick your own fruits depending on what's in season. It was apples for us, but it could be strawberries, blueberries, raspberries and pumpkins. The Andrew's Farm Market and Winery website usually states what's in season on the farm.

For a unique perspective, take a scenic wagon ride around the property. We drove past all of those gorgeous sunflowers, but you could drive past fruit fields or the pumpkin patch on your visit.

And Andrew's Winery is the only winery in Halton region. They produce quality fruit wines from fruit grown on the farm. Pop by the winery for a sample of their fruit wines, dessert wines and their signature red and white wine. We couldn't resist bringing home a couple of bottles (apple spice and strawberry sensation were clear winners in our books).

Silver Creek Conservation Area

Hiking at Silver Creek Conservation Area is one of the best things to do in Halton Hills as it features some of the best trails in the area. It's also the largest of all the Credit Valley Conservation Areas. Go hiking on the famous Bruce Trail, the Maureen Smith Side Trail, the Irwin Quarry Side Trail, the Roberts Side Trail and more.

With its intertwining collection of side trails, you could easily spend all day here. But, it's also great for a quick walk through the forest. Enjoy boardwalk trails, a beautiful lookout point, and paths that wind around the Niagara Escarpment. We love the unique rock formations here, too.

Terra Cotta Conservation Area

Terra Cotta Conservation Area is another fantastic place to go hiking in Halton Hills. This park spans across 485 acres of the Niagara Escarpment. There are several shorter trails at Terra Cotta Conservation Area, making it a leisurely hike for families. It's quite scenic here with wetlands, forests, streams and ponds.

You can also visit Terra Cotta Conservation Area for its annual maple syrup festival, Maple Syrup in the Park. Check out maple syrup demonstrations, go wandering through the sugarbush, and of course, sample delicious maple syrup and maple taffy.

Limehouse Conservation Area

Limehouse Conservation Area is also home to the Bruce Trail, much like Silver Creek Conservation Area. In fact, it's possible to hike on the Bruce Trail between Silver Creek Conservation Area, Scotsdale Farm, Terra Cotta Conservation Area and Limehouse Conservation Area, if you're looking for a long distance trek.

Limehouse Conservation Area has some one-of-a-kind features, like the "Hole in the Wall", a natural feature where you climb down a ladder and through a hole in the rock formation. There are also crevices to wander through, as well as old lime kilns, mill ruins, and an arched bridge to admire.

Lucy Maud Montgomery Garden

Last on my list, but certainly not least, is the Lucy Maud Montgomery Garden, also known as the Garden of the Senses. The famous Canadian author, Lucy Maud Montgomery, best known for Anne of Green Gables, moved to Norval in 1926. Although she was born in Prince Edward Island, she completed six of her 22 novels while living in Norval. She loved its natural setting and would often walk by the banks of the Credit River for inspiration.

As Lucy Maud Montgomery evokes the senses when describing gardens, this sensory garden is dedicated to her. It's a fun-filled interactive garden for children and people of all ages, allowing visitors to connect with nature using their senses. This is a public park and you can visit free of charge.

If you're looking for more peaceful and relaxing things to do, please check out our itinerary for a wellness day in Halton Hills with even more activities and places to visit.