Here are 10 small towns to explore if you love discovering Ontario's hidden gems.
Port Stanley
Why You Need To Go: You'll feel like you've taken a trip to the East Coast while visiting this hidden gem town. Port Stanley is a beautiful lakeside destination with shining waters and sandy shores.
According to Ontario's Southwest, "Port Stanley's Main Beach is a long beach with one of the finest stretches of sandy beach on Lake Erie's north shore."
You can spend your day relaxing in the sand, swimming in the clear waters and exploring the quaint beach town, where you'll find lots of cute local shops and restaurants to enjoy.
Port Stanley website
Merrickville
Why You Need To Go: Nestled along the shores of the Rideau Canal, Merrickville is a historic village with endless charm. The small town was dubbed "Canada's Most Beautiful Village" in 1998 by Communities in Bloom, and you can enjoy boutiques, restaurants and more while in the area.
According to the website, it's a "unique and vibrant Victorian village" that will make you feel like you've stepped back in time.
With cute shops and scenic trails, it's a gorgeous spot to spend a day.
Merrickville-Wolford website
Thornbury
Why You Need To Go: Thornbury is a charming small town located along the turquoise waters of Georgian Bay. Known for its culinary offerings, the village boasts delicious restaurants, cafes and cideries.
The Thornbury Harbour is a picturesque spot to take in the water views, and you won't want to miss out on a stop at the Thornbury Village Cider & Brewery for a boozy drink.
Experience Thornbury Website
Warkworth
Why You Need To Go: With stunning blooms and a vibrant arts scene, Warworth is a dreamy hidden gem to explore.
The community is known for its lilac bushes and even hosts a Lilac Festival each spring, where you can enjoy the fragrant purple blooms.
According to the town's website, it "holds a treasure trove of discoveries for you," from hiking trails to boutiques and theatre.
Warkworth Website
Paisley
Why you need to go: This rural town may be small, but it has no shortage of charm.
According to Explore the Bruce, "it has one of the prettiest, most picturesque downtown centres in Ontario," as well as a thriving arts scene and picturesque surroundings.
With historic buildings and scenic trails, it's a true hidden gem.
Visit Paisley Website
Port Hope
Why you need to go: This lakeside town is a short road trip from Toronto and is brimming with storybook charm.
According to the website, the "historic downtown is filled to the brim with 19th-century architecture and incredible stories" and is "the perfect one-stop shop for unique finds to take home."
You can spend your time swimming at the sandy beaches, exploring the local shops, wandering along the picturesque trails, or taking a tour of some of the filming locations throughout the area.
Visit Port Hope
Almonte
Why You Need To Go: European vibes and festive charm await at this riverside hidden gem.
Almonte boasts old-world streets lined with cozy boutiques and cafes, making it an idyllic spot for a getaway.
You can explore the Mill of Kintail Conservation Area and enjoy beautiful views along the downtown Riverwalk.
Almonte is known as the "Christmas Capital of Ontario," so it's worth planning a visit during the holiday season.
Almonte website
Southampton
Why You Need To Go: With stunning white sand shores and coastal charm, this small town is a true lakeside gem.
According to the website, the town "is known for its beautiful and unspoiled sandy beach," which "stretches for kilometres and is home to rare dune grass."
You can spend your days wandering through the local shops, cooling off with ice cream cones and lounging at the pristine beaches.
Visit Southampton website
Westport
Why You Need To Go: This little town near Ottawa will make you feel like you've stepped into a storybook. Westport boasts water views, old-world charm, and quaint streets dotted with historic buildings.
There are many eateries where you can enjoy a meal or treat, as well as shops to explore.
If you're up for a hike, Foley Mountain Conservation Area boasts panoramic views of the town below.
Village of Westport Website
Bala
Why You Need To Go: This small Muskoka town is a mini slice of paradise. With water views and cozy charm, it's a dreamy spot for a day trip.
The scenic downtown is lined with cute cafes, restaurants, and local shops. You can soak up the views of Bala Falls or dig into a meal on a sun-filled patio.
The area is known as the "Cranberry Capital of Ontario" and offers several cranberry-themed celebrations and festivals during the fall season.
Visit Bala website
These little towns are gorgeous spots to explore and are some of Ontario's dreamy hidden gems.
Before you get going, check out our Responsible Travel Guide so you can be informed, be safe, be smart, and most of all, be respectful on your adventure.
