8 Charming Small Towns In Ontario That Offer A Perfect Escape This Winter
It's no secret that big cities like Ottawa and Toronto have plenty of fun winter activities for you to enjoy. However, every now and then, we all crave the laid-back and carefree vibe you get from a small town. If you're looking to escape the big city for some worry-free winter fun in one of the numerous charming small towns in Ontario, you're in luck!
There are so many cute little places across the province that make incredible winter day trips! Whether it's a horse-drawn trolley ride or a frosty hike up to a snowy lookout point or a visit to a real-life winter wonderland, there is a little something for everyone to enjoy this season.
So, take a look at this list we've put together so you don't have to, and look forward to your best winter yet!
St. Jacobs
Price: Prices vary
Address: St. Jacobs Village, ON
Why You Need To Go: Just outside of Waterloo, St. Jacobs has a charming village look and feel that will transport you to a simpler time. In the winter, they host the St. Jacobs Sparkles event where all the shops in town light up. You can enjoy beautiful light displays, shopping discounts, carolling, horse-drawn carriage rides, and more.
Burlington
Price: Free
Address: 1400 Lakeshore Rd., Burlington, ON
Why You Need To Go: Burlington is a charming little spot outside of Toronto along the shore of Lake Ontario. Every winter, they host an enchanting Festival of Lights in Spencer Smith Park. You can walk through the twinkling light displays and admire their colourful reflection on the lake.
The Blue Mountains
Price: Prices vary
Address: 156 Jozo Weider Blvd., The Blue Mountains, ON
Why You Need To Go: If skiing is your jam, then you can't pass up a trip to Blue Mountain Village near Collingwood. You'll feel like you're walking into a real-life fairytale here, so even if you're not into extreme winter sports, there's still plenty for you to enjoy.
Port Elgin
Price: Prices vary
Address: 1593 Bruce Rd. 33, Port Elgin, ON
Why You Need To Go: With an abundance of naturally beautiful parks and beaches, Port Elgin is a must-visit any time of year. But there's something that's just so magical about those parks and beaches in the winter. If you're fearless enough for winter camping, then you must check out MacGregor Point Provincial Park. Another fun way to see the breathtaking winter sights in the area is via dog sled at Green Feet Dogsledding.
Huntsville
Price: $10.84
Address: 451 Arrowhead Park Rd., Huntsville, ON
Why You Need To Go: For many of us, winter in Ontario means lacing up those skates and hitting the ice. Arrowhead Provincial Park in Huntsville offers one of the most picturesque outdoor skating trails in the province. Skating here becomes even more magical in the evening when the tiki torches that line the trail are lit. There's even an area with an open fire pit for you to warm up at. If you've never been, add this one to your winter bucket list ASAP!
Alton
Price: $70
Address: 55 John St., Alton, ON
Why You Need To Go: If you're the kind of person who wants to cling on as tight as possible to any aspect of summer, then Alton's Millcroft Inn & Spa is the place to go. The incredible outdoor hot springs will help you keep bathing suit season alive and thriving, even in the cold depths of winter.
Dundas
Price: $5 entry, $10 parking
Address: Harvest Rd., Dundas, ON
Why You Need To Go: Winter hiking presents some interesting obstacles, but if you're up for the challenge, Dundas Peak is worth checking out. You can access the trail and lookout point from the Spencer Gorge Conservation Area in Dundas. Looking out at the stretches of snow-covered trees from high above will truly make you feel like you're in a winter wonderland.
Picton
Price: Prices vary
Address: 166 Main St., Picton, ON
Why You Need To Go: Sometimes the best part of winter is coming inside to cozy up with a hot coffee. And while Picton has its fair share of incredible winter scenery, it's also home to one of the cutest cafes ever. Attached to the old movie theatre, The Vic Cafe is a must-visit at any time of year.
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