You're Not A True Ontarian Unless You've Been To At Least 7 Of These 15 Iconic Attractions
How many have you been to?
A person standing by Wonder Mountain at Canada's Wonderland. Right: A person standing in Blue Mountain Village in the winter.
Do you consider yourself a true Ontarian? If so, you've likely been to some of these iconic attractions scattered across the province.
Ontario has so many fun and exciting things to do, but when it comes to attractions that everyone should experience, these popular spots standout.
From stunning natural wonders and massive museums to thrilling amusement parks, these attractions are quintessential experiences that you just can't miss.
If you've been to at least 7 of these 15 iconic attractions, you can officially call yourself a true Ontarian.
Stratford Festival
Price: Prices vary
When: April to October, 2024
Address: Stratford, ON
Why You Need To Go: According to the website, the Stratford Festival is "North America’s largest classical repertory theatre company" and showcases a variety of modern and Shakespearean plays.
The company puts on a dozen or more productions in four venues each year and you can see all sorts of incredible performances.
The CN Tower
Price: $43 to $45 per adult
Address: 290 Bremner Blvd., Toronto, ON
Why You Need To Go: The CN Tower is one of Toronto's iconic landmarks and is worth experiencing at least once. You can stand on the glass floor and gaze down on the city or even brave the EdgeWalk, which is "the world’s highest hands-free external walk on a building."
Niagara Falls
Price: Free
Address: Niagara Falls, ON
Why You Need To Go: This renowned natural wonder draws tons of visitors each year. The cascading waterfall can be enjoyed from lookout platforms, cruises, flights and more.
The surrounding area boasts many attractions and activities, from the towering SkyWheel to Ripley's Believe It Or Not.
The Toronto Zoo
Price: $26.95 per adult
Address: 2000 Meadowvale Rd., Toronto, ON
Why You Need To Go: Who doesn't want to spend the day visiting adorable animals? The Toronto Zoo has everything from elephants and giraffes to polar bears and snakes.
There are events that take place throughout the year to enjoy as well as tours and more.
Parliament Hill
Price: Free
Address: Wellington St., Ottawa, ON
Why You Need To Go: Feeling patriotic? A trip to Canada's parliament buildings should be on everyone's bucket list. You can take in the views from outside or even go on a guided tour of the Senate of Canada Building, the House of Commons at West Block and more.
The Royal Ontario Museum
Price: $26 +
Address: 100 Queens Park, Toronto, ON
Why You Need To Go: The ROM is the largest museum in Canada and is home to everything from crystals and art to towering dinosaur bones.
You can visit unique exhibitions and take a trip back in time at this iconic spot. Over the next few years, the museum will be getting a massive upgrade, so you may want to plan another trip.
Canada's Wonderland
Price: $44.99 for a daily ticket
Address: 1 Canada's Wonderland Dr., Vaughan, ON
Why You Need To Go: If you're a fan of rides and amusement parks you've likely been to this spot. Canada's Wonderland is "Canada's premier amusement park" and features 18 roller coasters, a 20-acre waterpark and tons of other attractions.
It also has themed events throughout the year such as Halloween Haunt and WinterFest.
Rideau Canal Skateway
Price: Free
When: Typically runs from January to early March
Address: Ottawa, ON
Why You Need To Go: Each winter season, the Rideau Canal transforms into the "world’s largest skating rink" and it's an attraction that every Ontarian must experience at least once.
You can glide along the 7.8 kilometre ice trail and fill up on treats at some of the vendors along the way.
Ripley's Aquarium of Canada
Price: $44 per adult
Address: 288 Bremner Blvd., Toronto, ON
Why You Need To Go: Watch out for sharks! This giant aquarium is full of ocean friends and you can see all sorts of aquatic creatures.
One of the highlights is the Dangerous Lagoon where you can travel through an underwater tunnel and come face-to-face with sharks.
The Butterfly Conservatory
Price: $19 per adult
Address: 2565 Niagara Pkwy., Niagara Falls, ON
Why You Need To Go: You can step inside "one of the largest glass-enclosed butterfly conservatories in North America."
The attraction has over 2,000 butterflies in an enchanting tropical oasis. You'll wander along "winding pathways adorned with lush vegetation and trickling waterfalls."
The Distillery District
Price: Free
Address: Distillery District, Toronto, ON
Why You Need To Go: This historic area of Toronto is known for its European vibes and old-world charm. The district is home to many local shops and delicious restaurants along with annual events such as the iconic Winter Village, formerly known as the Toronto Christmas Market.
National Gallery of Canada
Price: $20 per adult
Address: 380 Sussex Dr., Ottawa, ON
Why You Need To Go: You can unleash your inner art critic at this gallery. According to Ottawa Tourism, the National Gallery of Canada is home to "Canada's finest collection of European art" and well as "world-class special exhibitions."
You can't miss the iconic Maman, a 30 foot sculpture of a spider that resides outside of the building.
The Grotto
Price: $9 per adult
Address: Tobermory, ON
Why You Need To Go: Known for its shining turquoise waters, limestone shoreline and stunning views, the Grotto is a popular spot for tourists and Ontarians alike.
The Grotto itself is a majestic cave filled with crystal-clear water that will transport you to the tropics. It can be found in the picturesque Bruce Peninsula National Park.
The Big Apple
Price: Free to visit
Address: 262 Orchard Rd., Colborne, ON
Why You Need To Go: If you live in Ontario, you've likely passed the Big Apple at least once during a road trip. This massive, fruit-shaped venue is "the home of delicious apple pies, including Dutch apple pies, bread with apple cinnamon bread, and other apple-inspired goodies."
You can even enjoy summer activities like ping pong, mini golf, train rides and more.
Blue Mountain Village
Price: Free
Address: 156 Jozo Weider Blvd., The Blue Mountains, ON
Why You Need To Go: This enchanting pedestrian village is full of European vibes and is a gorgeous destination to visit year-round. Whether you're hitting the slopes in the winter or enjoying a boozy drink on a patio during the summer, it's a magical spot to experience.
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.