So, you’ve landed in Toronto—welcome to the chaos. The city’s got energy, and certainly you can fill a few days without difficulty. But if you’re looking for something beyond the non-stop hustle and traffic, you’re in luck. Ontario has way more to offer than just Toronto’s skyline. There are small towns with serious character and perfect day trips that let you escape the grind. I’m about to take you off the beaten path. You didn’t come all this way just to stay in the city, did you? Let’s explore what’s out there. Here are 7 Ontario towns you must visit that aren’t Toronto.
1. Collingwood
Distance from Pearson Airport: 1h 45m
Near to: Blue Mountain Ski Resort
Best Way to Spend the Day: Wander the historic downtown, visit the Farmers Market, drink a craft beer on a patio, walk the trails, go paddling in the harbour.
Collingwood is only 15 minutes from Blue Mountain Ski Resort, and is a lovely town to visit. Even if you aren’t skiing, with 25,000 people, it has everything you need for a couple of days outside of Toronto. Combining nature, good food, craft beer, and an historic downtown, Collingwood is a great Canadian town to visit.
2. Owen Sound
Distance from Pearson Airport: 2h 10m
Near to: Tobermory, Bruce Peninsula National Park
Best Way to Spend the Day: Visit the Tom Thompson Gallery, see a show at Heartwood Hall, and tour the Marine and Rail Museum.
Owen Sound is just far enough north that it doesn’t get overrun with tourists. But with waterfront property, cute restaurants, and a stellar concert hall, why not take a trip up? If you’re around in July, be sure to plan to stay during the week of Choir Camp. This is an all-abilities week of singing with some of Canada’s top conductors, culminating in a final concert. Even if you aren’t a singer, there will be two performances that week worth checking out.
3. Meaford
Distance from Pearson Airport: 2 h
Near to: Georgian Bay and wineries
Best Way to Spend the Day: Sit by the pool at the best little AirBnB, wander around the bay, and have coffee at McGinty’s.
Meaford was so cute and such a surprise! First- you must stay at Plume, a European style AirBnB in a quiet Meaford neighbourhood with parking and a pool. Second, the town itself is sweet and has little cafes and shops. But the waterfront access at sunset is the real hit. It’s easy to get from Meaford to Georgian Bay, or to neighbouring wine country. Georgian Hills Vineyard was our favourite!
4. Thornbury
Distance from Pearson Airport: 1h 50m
Near to: Meaford, wine country, Georgian Bay, Tobermory
Best Way to Spend the Day: Major Stars Hollow vibes, so just enjoy the coffee, dogs, bike culture, and beachfront.
Thornbury is like Meaford’s slightly swankier cousin. The shops are just that much more expensive, the design a little more refined, and the waterfront equally desirable. It’s very easy to spend a day – or more – in Thornbury, either on foot or by bike.
5. Coburg
Distance from Pearson Airport: 1h 22m
Near to: Oshawa GO Station, Kingston
Best Way to Spend the Day: On the beautiful beach, followed by dinner at one of the great restaurants, and a show at Victoria Hall
Coburg is yet another great surprise. The beach is large, with lovely sand and clear water. There are loads of places to eat and drink, shops for wandering, and cafes. Plus, Victoria Hall – an architectual gem – houses both a concert hall, and the Art Gallery of Northumberland. Though small, this little spot is well worth a visit.
6. Port Hope
Distance from Pearson Airport: 1h 16m
Near to: Coburg, Ganaraska River
Best Way to Spend the Day: Watch the salmon run in the river and at the fish ladder, have lunch at Milly’s, and browse at Furby House Books.
In the summer of 2024, Port Hope faced challenges with its main street completely torn up. Despite this, it’s still one of my favourite little Ontario towns. It has become particularly well-known though for being one of the sites of the salmon migration. It’s easy to watch the salmon running in the river through town. It’s also worth taking the short drive to see them try to swim up the salmon ladder.
7. Kingston
Distance from Pearson Airport: 2h 35m
Near to: Lake Ontario, Queen’s University, lots of museums
Best Way to Spend the Day: Take the ferry to Wolfe Island, visit the Penitentiary Museum, and have dinner in town before catching a show at the Grand.
My first visit to Kingston (before spending four long years there at Queen’s) was to see Joel Plaskett at the Grand Theatre. It’s still one of my favourite venues to see performances. Kingston is a great, manageable city. It has plenty to do for a weekend, but it’s small enough to feel easy to navigate. The Penitentiary Museum is just one of many great museums in the city. Don’t miss one of my favourites: the Museum of Health Care.
From the laid-back charm of Thornbury to the scenic shores of Owen Sound, Ontario’s small towns pack a punch when it comes to character and adventure. You can stroll through Kingston’s historic streets. Or, soak in the artsy vibe of Port Hope. Each spot offers something different. They are perfect for a day trip or a longer stay. So next time you’re looking to escape the Toronto hustle, these hidden gems are ready and waiting.
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