9 enchanting small towns to visit near Toronto if you've already been to Elora
There are so many charming spots to explore.
A small town in Ontario.
Toronto is surrounded by so many charming small towns to explore. One popular village is Elora, and with its old-world charm and European vibes, it's no wonder visitors flock to this spot.
If you're looking for somewhere new to explore, you may want to plan a trip to some of these alternative small towns outside the city.
These spots boast cozy cafes and endless charm, making them idyllic spots for a day trip and weekend escape.
Here are nine enchanting small towns near Toronto to visit if you've already been to Elora.
Paris
Address: Paris, ON
Distance from Toronto: 1 hour
Why You Need To Go: While it may not be France, this charming small town near Toronto has European vibes and quaint stone buildings. Known as the "Cobblestone Capital of Canada," the village boasts old-world streets and cozy shops, making it an idyllic spot for a little getaway.
You can head to The Paris Wincey Mills Co. and browse goods from local vendors, check out some of the cafes and eateries, visit the attractions and take a self-guided tour around the enchanting streets.
During the warmer months, you can tube your way along the Grand River and enjoy the gorgeous scenery that surrounds the town.
Niagara-on-the-Lake
Address: Niagara-on-the-Lake, ON
Distance from Toronto: 1.5 hours
Why You Need To Go: This beautiful small town is straight out of a storybook and will have you feeling like you're wandering through a little English village.
It's brimming with romance, and its dreamy spas, quaint inns, and historic downtown make it the perfect place for a couple's getaway.
Niagara-on-the-Lake is known for its wine scene, and you can spend a day touring vineyards and enjoying boozy drinks on patios.
Stratford
Address: Stratford, ON
Distance from Toronto: 2 hours
Why You Need To Go: You don't need to get on a plane to enjoy old-world streets and European vibes. This small city near Toronto is a beautiful destination for a weekend getaway and offers cozy streets, quaint shops, and delicious restaurants.
From April to October, you can enjoy the Stratford Festival, which runs annually and features a variety of Shakespearean and contemporary performances.
You'll also want to wander through some of the breathtaking gardens, enjoy a meal on the scenic patios and visit some of the museums and galleries in the area.
St. Jacobs
Address: St. Jacobs, ON
Distance from Toronto: 1 hour
Why You Need To Go: This cute Ontario town is surrounded by beautiful countryside and looks like a scene from a postcard.
There's lots to enjoy, including strolling through the local shops, riding on the Waterloo Central Railway, and seeing a show at the St. Jacobs Country Playhouse.
The St. Jacobs Farmers' Market is a must-visit. It's Canada's largest year-round farmers' market of its kind and features all sorts of fresh food, arts, and more.
Unionville
Address: Unionville, ON
Distance from Toronto: 40 minutes
Why You Need To Go: You'll feel like a real-life Gilmore Girl at this quaint little village just outside of Toronto. Unionville served as the fictional town of Stars Hollow during the pilot episode of Gilmore Girls, and it has just as much charm in real life as it does in the show.
The Main Street is lined with picturesque shops and cafes, making it a beautiful place to explore.
Gilmore Girls fans can even do a self-guided tour through the area and visit locations featured in the popular series.
Dundas
Address: Dundas, ON
Distance from Toronto: 1 hour
Why You Need To Go: Dundas is a quaint small town nestled amidst scenic valleys, just an hour away from Toronto.
The dreamy main street has lots of shopping opportunities as well as restaurants and eateries.
Bring your hiking shoes, because the surrounding area is home to beautiful waterfalls like Tiffany Falls and Tew Falls.
You can spend your day wandering past cascades and exploring cute shops in this charming town.
Port Hope
Address: Port Hope, ON
Distance from Toronto: 1 hour
Why you need to go: Located on the scenic shores of Lake Ontario, Port Hope is a beautiful small town that's brimming with charm.
According to the website, the "historic downtown is filled to the brim with 19th century architecture and incredible stories" and is "the perfect one-stop shop for unique finds to take home."
During the summer, you can enjoy some time on the sandy beaches and hike along the scenic trails. When spooky season arrives, you can take a chilling tour through the town to discover It filming locations.
Creemore
Address: Creemore, ON
Distance from Toronto: 2 hours
Why you need to go: If you're looking for a peaceful, cozy day trip, this quaint Ontario village is the place to be.
Creemore is known as "the little village with a big heart," and is home to a variety of cozy shops, eateries and old-world charm.
You can enjoy some of the attractions like North America's Smallest Jail, Purple Hill Lavender and Nottawasaga Lookout, and grab a drink at the Creemore Springs Brewery.
Port Perry
Address: Port Perry, ON
Distance from Toronto: 1 hour
Why you need to go: Port Perry is a hidden gem perched on the shores of Lake Scugog. The town feels like a Hallmark movie come to life and is lined with Victorian buildings, cute bakeries and more.
From chocolate stores to cafes and specialty boutiques, there are endless shops to explore.
You don't want to miss out on a waterfront stroll through the park or the Port Perry Farmers' Market on select Saturdays.
From waterfront gems to old-world villages, there are so many cute small towns to visit near Toronto.
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.