8 enchanting small towns in Ontario that are even prettier in the spring
You'll feel like you've stepped into a spring fairy tale at these spots.
A small town in Ontario. Right: A tulip field in Ontario.
Spring is just around the bend, and you can enjoy the season to the fullest in these charming small towns in Ontario. With blossom-filled streets, picturesque views and seasonal events, these destinations are brimming with springtime magic.
You can spend your days strolling through tulip fields, sipping a drink on sunny patios, hiking to waterfalls and more.
Here are eight gorgeous small towns in Ontario that are even prettier during the spring.
Dundas
Why You Need To Go: Located about an hour away from Toronto, Dundas is a quaint small town with a historic main street and plenty of spring charm.
It's surrounded by beautiful waterfalls that can be even more impressive in the spring when the flow picks up. You can hike your way to gorgeous cascades such as Tiffany Falls and Tew Falls.
The downtown area is home to cute shops, galleries, eateries and museums. From cozy cafes to chocolate shops, you can find all sorts of treats and hidden gems.
Perth
Why You Need To Go: Get ready for Scottish vibes, blossom-filled parks and historic charm in this beautiful small town near Ottawa.
Nestled in Lanark County—Ontario's "Maple Syrup Capital"— Perth comes alive in spring when the sweet, golden syrup starts flowing.
You can visit the surrounding maple farms and pancake houses or spend your time wandering along the town's old-world main street.
Stewart Park is a stunning spot for a springtime stroll, and you'll find stone bridges straight out of a fairytale. You can also attend the annual Festival of Maples to celebrate "Sugar Season."
Niagara-on-the-Lake
Why You Need To Go: This enchanting village looks like a spring fairy tale. The town transforms into a flower-filled wonderland with European vibes and floral charm.
With blooming vineyards and pathways of cherry blossoms, Niagara-on-the-Lake will have you feeling like you've stepped into a painting.
The region is brimming with colourful tulip farms where you can pick your own blooms. Tasc, the largest tulip farm in the province, is a magical spot for a day trip and boasts 3 million flowers as well as photo ops, events and more.
Paris
Why You Need To Go: Fancy a spring trip to Europe? You don't have to go far in order to feel like you've jetted off to another country.
Paris is a stunning town perched on the shores of the Grand River. Known as the "Prettiest Little Town in Canada," the destination is a springtime dream come true with waterfront patios and scenic trails.
There are many quaint local boutiques and cafes to check out during your visit, as well as attractions such as museums, galleries and country markets.
Vankleek Hill
Why You Need To Go: Known as "the Gingerbread Capital of Ontario" Vankleek Hill has storybook streets and buildings that will transport you back in time.
The town boasts charming murals, cozy shops, cute cafes and more, making it a beautiful spot for a spring escape.
You can visit the Farmers' Market, explore the museums and galleries and more.
In May, the beautiful Vankleek Hill Tulip Fields will reopen to visitors. You can stroll through vibrant rows of flowers and pick their own bouquets to take home.
St. Jacobs
Why You Need To Go: Spring is a magical time to visit St. Jacobs Village. This old-world destination has streets lined with eclectic shops and cozy bakeries.
You can discover many markets and maple farms in the surrounding area, including the Elmira Maple Syrup Festival — the largest in the world.
The St. Jacobs Farmers' Market is a spring paradise with all sorts of fresh local produce, treats and more.
The Waterloo Central Railway offers several scenic train rides throughout the season, including an Easter Brunch Train and Cherry Blossom Dinner Train.
Jordan Village
Why You Need To Go: You can step into a spring fairy tale at this little village in Ontario. Jordan is a charming community with cherry blossom-lined streets and endless charm.
The downtown is home to cute shops where you can find hats, jewlery and more.
You can also explore the surrounding vineyards or take a trip to the nearby Ball's Falls Conservation Area. The destination features a heritage village and two waterfalls that are even more beautiful in the spring.
The Watering Can Flower Market, located just outside the town, is a spring paradise filled with blooms and sweet treats.
Warkworth
Why You Need To Go: Get ready for endless blooms in this small town. Warkworth is a quaint community known for its stunning lilac bushes.
Each spring, the town hosts a Lilac Festival complete with a lilac trail, vendors, children's activities, live music and more. It's a magical way to celebrate the season.
Aside from lilacs, the town is home to several local shops and eateries where you can find unique items and dig into some delicious dishes.
With flower-filled streets, quaint shops and sun-filled patios, these small towns in Ontario will have you feeling like you've stepped into a spring storybook.
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.