This beautiful Ontario village is one of Canada's 'best' small towns to visit during the fall

There's something so magical about visiting a small town during the fall. The cozy cafes, historic streets, and old-world charm seem extra enchanting beneath a blanket of autumn colours.

If you're planning a small-town outing this season, you'll want to head to this beautiful village just a road trip from Toronto. According to readers, it's one of Canada's best small towns to visit during the fall, and it will leave you spellbound.

Niagara-on-the-Lake is a stunning Victorian village just a couple of hours from Toronto. With tree-lined streets painted in autumn hues and charming historic buildings around every bend, it feels like stepping into a storybook.

According to Destination Canada, Niagara-on-the-Lake is a must-visit in the fall, where you can "see the changing leaves in all their glory."

You can wander through the Victorian era downtown, where you'll find charming boutiques and warm cafes tucked along leaf-strewn streets.

Balzac's Coffee Roasters is a cozy spot to grab a seasonal drink, while the Niagara Apothecary will whisk you back in time with a centuries-old pharmacy experience.

While the village is brimming with charm, it also has a slightly spooky side. According to Ghost Walks, it's Canada's "most haunted town," and features destinations like Brockamour Manor and Fort George that are said to be home to paranormal activity.

If you're looking to soak up some fall foliage, plan a drive along the Niagara Parkway, dubbed "the prettiest Sunday drive in the world" by Sir Winston Churchill.

Along the way, you'll see vineyards, parks, and riverside viewpoints that look straight out of a postcard.

The region is known for its wine scene, and you can head to some of the surrounding vineyards for enchanting harvest experiences and seasonal drinks.

If you want a little extra adventure, check out Fort George for a haunted tour, or explore the scenic trails of Queen's Royal Park, where you'll find beautiful fall colours and gorgeous lake views.

You can also catch a local theatre production at the Shaw Festival, which celebrates Canadian and international works.

There are several farms and pumpkin patches dotted around the town, such as Seaway Farms, where you'll find endless gourds and autumn charm.

If you're looking for a quintessential autumn day trip, readers say this cozy village is one of the best fall destinations in Canada.

Tourism Niagara-on-the-Lake website

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.