This charming lake town 1 hour from Toronto is a dreamy summer escape with Victorian streets

It will transport you back in time.

A person in a park with an ice cream cone. Right: A historic building.

A small town in Ontario.

@sociallykailee | Instagram, Spiroview Inc. | Dreamstime
Lead Writer, Travel

With summer just around the bend, it's time to start planning some sun-filled day trips and weekend getaways. This small town near Toronto boasts lake views and Victorian charm, making it a gorgeous spot for a warm-weather escape.

Located just an hour from the city, the quaint village has year-round Hallmark vibes and lots to enjoy.

Port Perry is a picturesque destination perched on the shores of Lake Scugog.

During the summer, the village transforms into a dreamy oasis with shining water views, sunny patios and picturesque parks.

You can wander along the main street, where you'll find local boutiques and beautiful Victorian architecture. Bakeries, cafes, quaint shops and more are dotted throughout the town.

You can enjoy lunch on a patio at The Port Social, grab an iced coffee from Nexus Coffee, or treat yourself to an ice cream cone from The Perfect Scoop.

You can enjoy water views from Palmer Park, where you'll find lakeside pathways and peaceful spots to relax in nature.

The Port Perry Farmers' Market takes place on Saturdays and offers stunning lake views, as well as a variety of local goods.

If you're hoping to spend some time outdoors, the Port Perry Waterfront Trail System offers 5 kilometres of scenic trails.

If cozy, small-town charm, lake views, and old-world vibes sound like the perfect summer day, Port Perry is the place to be.

Port Perry BIA 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.

  • Lead Writer

    Madeline Forsyth is a Toronto-based Lead Writer for Narcity Media. After earning her B.A. (Hons) at Queen's University, she spent a year travelling much of the world as a flight attendant. Now, she uses her experience in the travel industry and passion for writing to share stories about buzzworthy events and adventures across Canada and the globe. Madeline has been published in PopSugar and has interviewed sports and entertainment personalities for Narcity. She has covered and photographed restaurant openings as well as event launches such as the world premiere of the Dr. Seuss Experience. Some of her favourite things to write about include charming small towns and anything to do with Harry Potter.

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