10 stunning Ontario getaways that are way 'better' than a trip to the US
Leave your passport behind!
A small town in Ontario. Right: A winery in Ontario.
Craving a getaway? You don't need to cross the border to enjoy an incredible vacation. Ontario is full of beautiful destinations waiting to be explored — no passport needed.
In a post on Narcity Canada's Facebook page, we asked readers to share what Ontario destinations they think are better than a trip to the U.S. From beautiful parks to charming small towns, these are some of the local destinations mentioned.
Whether you’re wandering European-style streets, hopping between dreamy islands, or soaking up stunning nature views, you can find it all without leaving the province.
Here are 10 beautiful Ontario getaways that locals say are even better than travelling to the States.
Stratford
Why You Need To Go: You can enjoy a little slice of Europe right here in Ontario. This old-world city has British heritage and was named after Stratford-upon-Avon in England.
Stratford is brimming with quaint streets, unique attractions, delicious restaurants and gorgeous scenery, making it an idyllic spot for a getaway.
You can catch a show at the renowned Stratford Festival, wander through lush gardens, check out the world's smallest movie theatre, follow food trails and more.
Muskoka
Why You Need To Go: There's no need to travel to New York State to enjoy a Hamptons-style escape. Ontario has its own version of this celeb hotspot, and it's just a road trip from Toronto.
Muskoka is known as the "Hamptons of the North" and offers endless lakes, rugged scenery, beautiful cottages and summer magic.
It's also known for its celebrity scene, so keep your eyes peeled for stars!
1000 Islands
Why You Need To Go: You don't have to cross the border to enjoy a fun getaway. This destination, which shares the border between northern New York State and southeastern Ontario, is a "sightseer's paradise" and worth checking out.
The Thousand Islands region is a majestic spot to explore, offering endless islands, sparkling coves and quaint waterfront towns.
You can cruise your way around the turquoise waters, wander through destinations like Kingston and Gananoque, and explore attractions like the 1000 Islands Tower, Brockville Railway Tunnel, Thousand Islands Playhouse and Thousand Islands National Park.
Niagara-on-the-Lake
Why You Need To Go: This fairytale village in Ontario is better than a trip to the U.S., locals say. Niagara-on-the-Lake is a stunning destination with old-world charm and Victorian-era streets.
Offering local restaurants, luxurious spas, quaint boutiques and more, it's the perfect place for a day trip or weekend escape.
You'll also want to check out the surrounding vineyards, where you'll find wine tastings and restaurants that rival Napa Valley.
Prince Edward County
Why You Need To Go: You don't need a trip to the U.S. to find beautiful white sand beaches, rolling vineyards and enchanting villages.
Prince Edward County offers all this and more without leaving Ontario.
You can explore cozy towns like Picton, Bloomfield and Wellington, enjoy a glass (or two) of wine in scenic vineyards, and visit the charming farm markets dotted throughout the region.
One of the highlights of the area is its white sand beaches. Spots like Sandbanks Provincial Park and North Beach are a must-visit during the summer months.
Kingston
Why You Need To Go: Nestled on the shores of Lake Ontario, Kingston is a beautiful, old-world destination that rivals a trip to the U.S, according to locals.
Known as the "Limestone City," Kingston is brimming with Victorian-era streets and old-world buildings that will transport you to Europe.
There's lots to enjoy in the city, from outdoor movies to festivals, museums, historic sites, and trolley tours. The destination also boasts an incredible food scene and is home to a variety of pubs, bars, cafes and restaurants.
Lake Superior
Why You Need To Go: Known for its rugged beauty and stunning coastline, the Lake Superior region is a locally loved destination for a getaway.
The lake boasts countless hidden gem beaches, breathtaking hikes and majestic parks, making it a dream destination for outdoor lovers and adventure seekers.
You can check out gorgeous parks like Pukaskwa National Park and Lake Superior Provincial Park, visit hidden beaches like Katherine Cove and Pancake Bay, hike your way through Ouimet Canyon and visit charming communities like Rossport.
Manitoulin Island
Why You Need To Go: Manitoulin Island, located on the vibrant blue waters of Lake Huron, is worth a summer getaway.
As the largest freshwater island in the world, the destination is home to all sorts of unique destinations to explore, from beautiful Bridal Veil Falls to Providence Bay Beach and the scenic Cup & Saucer Trail.
You can also explore spots like East Bluff Lookout, Misery Bay Provincial Nature Reserve and Manitowaning Lighthouse.
Ottawa
Why You Need To Go: Readers say that Ottawa is even better than a trip across the border. The capital city is home to all sorts of attractions, making it a great destination for a getaway.
You can totally immerse yourself in the culture by exploring museums, enjoying tours, wandering through parks, and visiting art galleries. Some of the top spots to check out include the National Gallery of Canada and the Canadian War Museum.
You'll also want to head to Parliament Hill, where you can enjoy a free guided tour.
Algonquin Provincial Park
Price: $12.25 + for daily vehicle permit
Address: Ontario 60, ON
Why You Need To Go: Algonquin is an iconic Ontario destination renowned for its stunning wilderness. The park is home to "maple hills, rocky ridges, and thousands of lakes," making it a gorgeous spot to explore without leaving the country.
The park offers a variety of activities, including camping, hiking, birding, canoeing, and more. Fall is a breathtaking time to visit the area, when the trees transform with vibrant shades of red and gold.
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.