Discover Ontario: Top Attractions and Things to Do
Ontario, boasting the bustling cities of Toronto and Ottawa, is also a land of wilderness and waterfalls, including the famous Niagara Falls. This vast province offers a mix of urban excitement and natural beauty.
Summer in Ontario is perfect for museum visits, amusement parks, lakeside relaxation, and iconic landmarks like the CN Tower. Winter brings skiing, snowmobiling, and indoor activities such as hockey and cultural events.
Whether you're seeking a small-town feel or big-city thrills, Ontario has something for everyone. Start planning with our guide to the province's top tourist attractions.
1. Niagara Falls
Niagara Falls, particularly the massive Horseshoe Falls, is a must-see natural wonder straddling the border between Canada and the USA. Easily accessible from the city of Niagara Falls, visitors can enjoy breathtaking views along the river walkway. Day trips from Toronto are common, with the drive taking about 1.5 hours.
Accommodation: Where to Stay in Niagara Falls: Best Areas & Hotels
2. Toronto's CN Tower
The CN Tower, an iconic part of Toronto's skyline, offers stunning views from its observation deck and restaurant. At night, the illuminated tower and city lights create a magical panorama. Located downtown, it's near other attractions like Ripley's Aquarium and Rogers Centre.
Official site: https://www.cntower.ca/intro.html
Accommodation: Where to Stay in Toronto: Best Areas & Hotels
3. Parliament Hill in Ottawa
Parliament Hill, set above the Ottawa River, is the starting point for exploring Ottawa. The Peace Tower stands out among the historic buildings. Visitors can watch the Changing of the Guard in summer and join Canada Day celebrations on July 1. Free guided tours are available.
Official site: https://visit.parl.ca/sites/Visit/default/en_CA/
Accommodation: Where to Stay in Ottawa: Best Areas & Hotels
4. Ontario's Provincial and National Parks
Ontario's parks offer access to stunning landscapes, lakes, and beaches. Algonquin Provincial Park is a favorite for hiking and camping, while Killarney and Bruce Peninsula National Parks are great for outdoor adventures. History buffs can explore ancient rock carvings at Petroglyphs Provincial Park.
5. Royal Ontario Museum (ROM)
The ROM in Toronto is a top museum with diverse collections, including the Michael Lee-Chin Crystal. It's close to other cultural spots like the Gardiner Museum.
Official site: https://www.rom.on.ca/en
Accommodation: Where to Stay in Toronto: Best Areas & Hotels
6. Canada's Wonderland
Canada's Wonderland, near Toronto, is a summer favorite with roller coasters, water parks, and live shows. It's an easy day trip from the city.
Official site: https://www.canadaswonderland.com/
Accommodation: Where to Stay near Canada's Wonderland
7. National Gallery of Canada
In Ottawa, the National Gallery showcases Canadian art and international works in a modern building. Nearby attractions include the Canadian Museum of History and ByWard Market.
Official site: http://www.gallery.ca/en/
8. Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF)
TIFF is a major event attracting stars and nearly half a million visitors. The city comes alive with films, celebrities, and outdoor patios bustling into the night.
Official site: https://www.tiff.net/tiff/
9. Art Gallery of Ontario
The AGO in Toronto is renowned for its Canadian and international art collections. Check their website for current exhibitions.
Official site: https://ago.ca/
10. Thousand Islands
The Thousand Islands area offers scenic cruises through a maze of islands along the St. Lawrence River. Gananoque is the main gateway to this beautiful region.
Accommodation: Where to Stay near Thousand Islands
11. Fishing in Northern Ontario
Northern Ontario is a prime fishing destination with abundant lakes and lodges catering to anglers seeking walleye, bass, and pike.
12. Trent-Severn Waterway National Historic Site of Canada
This historic canal links Lake Ontario with Georgian Bay and is popular for boating and recreation. Locks along the way offer camping and picnic spots.
Official site: https://www.pc.gc.ca/en/lhn-nhs/on/trentsevern
13. Muskoka and Cottage Country
Muskoka, near Toronto, is a summer haven with lakes, cottages, and resorts. Gravenhurst is the main town, offering lake cruises.
Accommodation: Top-Rated Resorts in Muskoka
14. Fort William Historical Park
In Thunder Bay, this park recreates a fur trade post and offers insights into the era's life and the David Thompson Astronomical Observatory.
Official site: http://fwhp.ca/
Accommodation: Where to Stay near Fort William Historical Park
15. Lake of the Woods
Lake of the Woods offers a wilderness experience with boating and fishing. Kenora is the main town for planning trips to this vast lake.
16. Blue Mountain Resort
Near Collingwood, Blue Mountain Resort is a year-round destination for skiing and summer activities. The village offers dining and shopping.
Official site: http://www.bluemountain.ca
Accommodation: Where to Stay near Blue Mountain Resort
17. Stratford Festival
The Stratford Festival celebrates Shakespeare's works and more, drawing crowds for theater performances from May to October.
Official site: https://www.stratfordfestival.ca/
Accommodation: Where to Stay in Stratford
18. Sainte-Marie among the Hurons
Near Midland, this reconstructed mission offers a glimpse into the life of the Jesuits and Huron people in the 17th century.
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