9 beautiful small towns in Ontario that locals say you should visit in 2025
From riverside gems to Victorian villages.
A small town in Ontario.
Ontario has so many beautiful small towns to visit, and if you're looking for some travel inspiration, these charming villages are worth a trip this year.
We asked readers on Narcity Canada's Facebook page for the best Ontario small towns to visit in 2025. The post has received over 100 responses and these are a few of the recommended destinations.
From riverside gems to cozy Hallmark villages, these small towns are idyllic spots for a day trip or weekend getaway.
Here are nine small towns in Ontario that locals say are worth a visit in 2025.
Port Perry
Address: Port Perry, ON
Why You Need To Go: Perched on the shores of Lake Scugog, Port Perry is an enchanting hidden gem with Hallmark vibes and a beautiful waterfront.
There are lots of local shops to explore, as well as cozy cafes and bakeries full of treats. You can also check out The Port Perry Farmers' Market, which runs on Saturdays from May to Thanksgiving and features all sorts of unique finds.
There are festivals to enjoy throughout the year as well as seasonal activities like skating in the winter and boating during the summer.
Vankleek Hill
Address: Vankleek Hill, ON
Why You Need To Go: This charming small town will transport you back in time and is a magical spot to visit in 2025, according to locals.
Vankleek Hill is a small village with historic murals, quaint shops and beautiful scenery. According to the website, it's known as the "Gingerbread Capital of Ontario" due to the decorative trim on homes and buildings throughout the area.
You can enjoy local attractions and check out the dreamy tulips at Vankleek Hill Tulip Fields during the spring.
Niagara-on-the-Lake
Address: Niagara-on-the-Lake, ON
Why You Need To Go: A trip to Niagara-on-the-Lake is worth having on your radar, according to locals. This fairytale village is full of cute shops and old-world charm.
Nestled amidst vineyards, it's a great spot for a boozy day out. You can enjoy the many wineries and restaurants that the region is known for.
Throughout the year, you can enjoy events like the Icewine Festival and theatre shows.
Niagara-on-the-Lake is also home to a number of hotels and spas, making it an idyllic destination for a weekend getaway.
Temagami
Address: Temagami, ON
Why You Need To Go: Calling all nature enthusiasts! If you're hoping to get outdoors and enjoy the rustic beauty of Ontario, locals suggest a trip to Temagami.
According to Northeastern Ontario, Temagami is "the gateway to Ontario’s wilderness region" and is full of "old growth pine forests, smooth blue waters, brilliantly white powder snow, and bountiful fish and wildlife."
The small town is home to a fire tower with panoramic views, a historic train station and several local shops.
There are endless outdoor adventures to enjoy in the area, from hiking and canoeing to swimming and camping.
Almonte
Address: Almonte, ON
Why You Need To Go: Locals love this small town with European vibes. Almonte is a charming gem perched along the shores of the Mississippi River near Ottawa.
The storybook streets are lined with cozy boutiques and cafes, making it a charming spot to spend a day.
You can wander through the Mill of Kintail Conservation Area and take in the views along the downtown Riverwalk.
The village is known as the "Christmas Capital of Ontario" due to its charm and Hallmark movie scene, so it's worth planning a trip during the holiday season.
Westport
Address: Westport, ON
Why You Need To Go: This little town has Stars Hollow vibes and is a magical spot to explore this year. Located an hour an a half outside of Ottawa, the waterside village has historic charm and quaint streets.
There are many eateries where you can grab a bite to eat, from tea rooms to cafes and breweries.
Foley Mountain Conservation Area is a beautiful spot to explore and features panoramic views of the town below. It's especially scenic during the fall when the area transforms with vibrant foliage.
Picton
Address: Picton, ON
Why You Need To Go: Planning a weekend getaway this year? Picton is worth a visit. Featuring sparkling waters, a vibrant downtown and historic charm, it looks like a scene from a storybook.
Situated in picturesque Prince Edward County, Picton is surrounding by beautiful vineyards and quaint farm markets.
During the summer, you can take a trip to Sandbanks Provincial Park to enjoy the white sand beaches and rolling dunes that are straight out of the tropics.
Offering several spas, cozy inns and luxurious retreats, there's no shortage of places to stay and enjoy some rest and relaxation.
Smiths Falls
Address: Smiths Falls, ON
Why You Need To Go: Nestled between Ottawa and Kingston, this small town is "a beautiful waterfront community with historic architecture, a vibrant downtown and friendly small-town charm," according to the website.
You can spend the day exploring the shops and quaint downtown, or head to the Railway Museum and even stay overnight in a caboose.
The Cataraqui Trail is a picturesque spot for a hike and takes you through forests, past small lakes and more.
You can also explore the Heritage House Museum or enjoy the delicious restaurants and eateries the town has to offer.
Collingwood
Address: Collingwood, ON
Why You Need To Go: This town has endless charm, waterfront views and delicious restaurants. Collingwood is a beautiful spot to visit year-round and boasts a bustling downtown with historic architecture.
It's a short trip away from Blue Mountain Village — a four-season destination with outdoor attractions and European vibes.
With breweries, theatre shows, a museum and more, there are endless activities to enjoy. You can unwind at the beautiful Scandinave Spa or take in the views along the Georgian Trail.
These charming small towns are loved by locals and are worth adding to your 2025 plans. Happy travels!
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.