Here's Which Ontario Destination You Should Visit In 2024 Based On Your Idea Of A Perfect Day
Where will you be travelling?
Madeline holding a pink drink by a seafood platter. Right: A person in a bathing suit swimming.
Not sure where to travel this year? Ontario has so many incredible destinations to visit and here's where to go based on your idea of a perfect day. Whether you're a foodie, outdoor enthusiast or theatre buff, you'll find you ideal getaway in the province.
From vibrant cities to charming small towns and dreamy spas, here are eight destinations to visit, based on your favourite way to spend your time.
Feasting on delicious food
Address: Toronto, ON
Why You Need To Go: If you're a foodie at heart, then Toronto is calling your name this year. As Ontario's capital city, it's home to a wide range of cuisines and restaurants that will satisfy every craving.
From Michelin-starred venues to hidden local gems, you can indulge in every dish of your dreams while visiting the city.
Whether you're biting into the iconic blueberry buttermilk pancakes at Mildred's Temple Kitchen, feasting on Thai dishes as PAI, enjoying a famous peameal bacon sandwich from Carousel Bakery or filling up on Italian food at Sotto Sotto, you're in for an unforgettable meal.
You can also enjoy food tours through areas like Kensington Market to indulge in sweet treats, unique snacks and more.
Going on a shopping spree
Address: Collingwood, ON
Why You Need To Go: While Toronto is a great option if you want to hit up some malls or designer stores, Collingwood offers an array of local, unique shops with a mix of small-town charm.
If you want to spend a day strolling along quaint streets and exploring cute boutiques, this small town is the place to be.
The downtown area has everything from bookstores to tea shops and clothing boutiques.
You can also pop over to the nearby Blue Mountain Village for more shopping. The European-like area has cobblestone streets lined with stores, eateries and more to enjoy.
Getting lost in nature
Address: Muskoka, ON
Why You Need To Go: According to Discover Muskoka, the area offers "endless natural beauty that provides the perfect backdrop for adventure or escape."
If you're a fan of wilderness trails, stunning lookouts, sparkling lakes and winter activities, you'll want to plan a trip to Muskoka in 2024.
The region is "one of Canada's most popular vacation destinations" and has a range of things to do during every season. It's home to stunning provincial parks like Arrowhead and Algonquin, both of which offer beautiful hikes and breathtaking views.
Other nature adventures in Muskoka include the Dorset Lookout Tower, waterfall hikes, the Arrowhead skating trail and Torrance Barrens Dark Sky Preserve.
Spending a day on the beach
Address: Prince Edward County, ON
Why You Need To Go: White sand beaches, crystal waves and small town charm await at this gorgeous Ontario destination. Prince Edward County is the place to be if you love the beach and it's worth planning a summer getaway.
The island community boasts several stunning beaches, from dog-friendly spots to free places to swim and more.
One popular place to enjoy a beach day is Sandbanks Provincial Park. The park is home to three gorgeous white sand beaches that will make you feel like you've taken a trip to the tropics.
You can also check out North Beach Provincial Park which features a 1 kilometre ribbon of sand and is a dreamy spot to relax.
Prince Edward County is home to lots of other things to enjoy after a day at the beach. From a drive-in movie theatre to small towns like Picton, you can easily spend a weekend or longer visiting this spot.
Sipping boozy drinks
Address: Niagara-on-the-Lake, ON
Why You Need To Go: If a day spent sipping boozy drinks in lush vineyards sounds like your cup of tea (or wine), then Niagara-on-the-Lake is the place for you.
The region is situated in Ontario Wine Country and has close to 40 wineries as well as the "famous" Niagara Icewine.
From winery tours to vineyard hopping and boozy bicycle adventures, it's a great destination for a girls getaway or romantic retreat.
The 19th-century village is a charming place to explore and is home to boutiques, eateries, a theatre and more.
Getting pampered
Price: Prices vary
Address: 1009 Massey Rd., Grafton ON
Why You Need To Go: Ste. Anne's Spa is the ultimate place to get pampered. The relaxing retreat is a "1800s heritage fieldstone country castle" and you can enjoy a range of treatments and experiences.
From steam rooms and hydrotherapy pools to facials and massages, the spa will have you feeling totally relaxed.
You can even plan an overnight visit in a cozy spa cottage.
The venue has nature trails, country cuisines, a bakery and more to enjoy.
Seeing a show
When: April to October
Address: Stratford, ON
Why You Need To Go: Stratford is known for its theatre scene so if you love a good show, this is the place to be. The annual Stratford Festival runs from April to October and features a variety of Shakespearean and contemporary plays.
This year, you can see shows like Romeo and Juliet, Twelfth Night, and Wendy and Peter Pan.
The city is a dreamy spot for a getaway and is home to delicious restaurants, charming shops and cute Bed and Breakfasts. You'll want to spend more than a day here!
Enjoying small town charm
Address: Elora, ON
Why You Need To Go: This small town is a paradise for anyone in search of storybook charm. Elora is perched on the edge of a breathtaking gorge and offers quaint streets, local boutiques and drool-worthy eateries.
Whether you're spending a day shopping and relaxing at cafes, getting pampered at the Elora Mill & Spa or taking a dip in the turquoise quarry, you'll feel right at home in this fairytale town.
According to the website, the area is "Ontario's most beautiful village" so you can expect endless charm while visiting this spot.
Get ready for beach days, shopping sprees and more at these magical destinations across the province.
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.