8 enchanting small towns in Ontario that are like stepping into an autumn dreamland
These spots look like they were made for fall.
A small town in Ontario.
Fall is one of the best times to visit Ontario's charming small towns. The crisp autumn air, golden leaves, and sweater weather add an extra touch of magic, making every stroll down a main street or hike through a forest feel like a storybook scene.
These small towns are especially beautiful during the autumn season. With cozy cafes, shops dressed in harvest decor, and quaint streets, these enchanting villages make for dreamy weekend day trips or getaways.
Here are eight small towns in Ontario to explore this autumn season.
Unionville
Why you need to go: Located less than an hour away from Toronto, Unionville is a charming community that will have you feeling like you've stepped into Stars Hollow.
Its Stars Hollow vibes aren't a coincidence – the village actually served as a backdrop for the fictional Connecticut town during the pilot episode of Gilmore Girls.
You can enjoy major autumn charm as you stroll along the quaint streets, dip into cozy cafes, and snap some photos in the iconic town gazebo.
There's even a Gilmore Girls Tour that leads to filming locations seen in the show.
Main Street Unionville website
St. Jacobs Village
Why you need to go: This quaint riverside village was made for fall, and you'll be whisked back in time as you wander along the leafy streets and pop into the quaint boutiques.
St. Jacobs Village is a harvest dream come true, with rustic markets, warm cafes and forested trails.
You can unleash your inner witch at Hamel Brooms — the last corn broom manufacturer left in Canada. Don't miss out on a trip to the EcoCafe for a cozy drink, or the Stone Crock Bakery, where you'll find all sorts of sweet treats.
A stop at the St. Jacobs Farmers' Market is a must. The venue is the largest market of its kind in the country and offers everything from artwork to harvest goods.
The village is also hosting a Pumpkin Palooza in October 2025, complete with trick-or-treating, pumpkin carving, and more.
Creemore
Why you need to go: If you're craving rolling hills of red and gold, pumpkin spice lattes, and cozy shops, you'll want to plan a trip to Creemore this autumn season.
Nestled amidst rolling hills, the town transforms into an autumn wonderland, and it's a great spot for a day trip or weekend escape.
You can sip drinks at the Creemore Brewery, bite into tasty treats at The Bank Café, and cozy up in a bookshop at Curiosity House Books.
Merrickville
Why you need to go: Merrickville is a dreamy place to enjoy the autumn season. Located an hour from Ottawa, this hidden gem was named "Canada's Most Beautiful Village" in 1998 by Communities in Bloom, and fall brings a new kind of magic to the region.
You can stroll along leaf-dusted streets, peeking into store windows and shopping for cozy goods like sweet treats and candles.
If you're looking to enjoy the colours, grab a coffee and go for a stroll along one of Merrickville's scenic trails, such as the Merrickville Ruins trail, where you can take in the views.
Elora
Why you need to go: Feeling spooky? This small town transforms into a spectacular Halloween village that will make you feel like you've stepped into a Tim Burton movie.
Elora is a beautiful destination to visit year-round, and autumn unleashes a magical, slightly haunting side of the village.
Monster Month is an annual event that takes place in Elora and Fergus each October. You can find giant monster sculptures lurking around the quaint streets, as well as enjoy events such as a Fall Festival, Magic Festival, and Monster Tours.
You can also pop into the cozy shops and cafes Elora is known for.
Niagara-on-the-Lake
Why you need to go: With Victorian-era streets, pumpkin-filled porches and vintage charm, Niagara-on-the-Lake feels like stepping into an old Disney film.
According to Destination Canada, it's one of the top fall destinations in the country, and you can "see the changing leaves in all their glory."
You can explore the quaint shops, visit the surrounding vineyards, and unwind at a spa for a dreamy autumn day out.
The town also has a spookier side. According to Ghost Walks, it's Canada's "most haunted town" and is home to some eerie locations, such as Brockamour Manor and Fort George.
Tourism Niagara-on-the-Lake website
Westport
Why you need to go: Tucked along Upper Rideau Lake, Westport is a quaint little village that feels like it was made for an autumn getaway.
You can spend the day wandering along the quaint main street, which is dotted with heritage stone buildings, cozy cafes, art galleries, and boutiques brimming with local treasures. You'll feel like you're in Stars Hollow as you soak up the small-town charm.
One of the highlights of the area is Foley Mountain Conservation Area, where you can hike your way to sweeping views of the village wrapped in fiery red and gold leaves.
Bala
Why you need to go: This tiny, waterside village is a hidden fall gem. Located in the stunning Muskoka region, the town is surrounded by fiery hues and crisp autumn magic.
It's known as the "Cranberry Capital of Ontario," and hosts an annual cranberry festival filled with autumn charm.
You can also take a trip to Muskoka Lakes Farm & Winery, where you can sip boozy drinks, hike along colourful trails, and even wade through a cranberry bog.
The village is surrounded by some stunning fall drives, so if you're up for a road trip, keep this spot on your radar.
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.