I've Lived In Ontario All My Life & These Are My Top 7 Weekend Getaway Spots In The Province
It's vacay time! If you're in need of a weekend getaway then here are a few places in Ontario you may want to check out. I've lived in the province all my life and when it comes to staycations, these spots are some of my favourites.
Whether you're dreaming of a small town retreat, nature escape or city adventure, I've got you covered. From charming villages with historic streets to regions with breathtaking natural landscapes and exciting city experiences, these destinations have endless things to enjoy.
Here are my seven favourite weekend getaway spots in Ontario where you can unwind and recharge. Start packing that suitcase!
Kingston
Address: Kingston, ON
Why You Need To Go: Having spent five years in Kingston, this picturesque city holds a special place in my heart, and I love returning for a weekend getaway.
Dubbed the "Limestone City," Kingston has a charming downtown core with European vibes and so much to do. One of my favourite things about the city is that there are so many cute cafes and delicious restaurants waiting to be enjoyed. Don't miss out on the brunch at Pan Chancho Bakery & Café!
During the summer months, you can spend the day by the lake with a cone from Mio Gelato, hit up a patio and shop at the Kingston Public Market in Springer Market Square.
In the winter, you can glide around the charming downtown ice rink and warm up with cozy drinks at the surrounding cafes.
There are so many quaint B&Bs as well as boutique hotels where you can enjoy a relaxing weekend retreat.
Niagara-on-the-Lake
Address: Niagara-on-the-Lake, ON
Why You Need To Go: This small town is just too beautiful for a single day trip. It's full of spas, shops and quaint streets to explore and I feel like I've travelled back in time whenever I visit.
The town is renowned for its surrounding wineries so if a boozy weekend getaway sounds like your cup of tea (or wine) then this is the place to be.
You won't want to miss a stop at COWS to try one of the delicious ice cream cones.
During the holiday season, the town transforms into an "authentic Christmas village" and come January, you can enjoy the magical Ice Wine Festival.
During the summer, there are tons of concerts and events to see.
Muskoka
Address: Muskoka, ON
Why You Need To Go: This region is known for its beautiful landscapes and it's one of my favourite spots to visit, especially during the fall when it transforms with vibrant colours.
From stunning hiking trails so charming small towns, this destination has it all. There are many resorts and cozy cottages to book, depending on what kind of getaway you're looking for.
You can enjoy beautiful lakes and hikes during the summer, ice skating and skiing in the winter and incredible foliage views in the fall.
Sandhill Nursery's Fall Festival is another place to visit during autumn. The garden centre transforms with games, activities, performers and more.
Stratford
Address: Stratford, ON
Why You Need To Go: As a theatre-fanatic, Stratford is one of my go-to destinations for a weekend getaway. Not only is the city incredibly quaint and charming, it is also home to the renowned Stratford Festival.
I've seen some of my favourite plays here including To Kill A Mockingbird, West Side Story and The Sound of Music and each performance has been phenomenal.
The downtown core has so many boutiques to check out as well as restaurants and cafes. You'll want to head to Rheo Thompson Candies and try one of the iconic mint smoothies.
There are lots of cute inns and boutique hotels to book for an idyllic weekend escape.
Ottawa
Address: Ottawa, ON
Why You Need To Go: Canada's Capital is always worth a visit and offers lots of activities. I love visiting during Winterlude when the city comes alive with snowy-weather excitement.
The Rideau Canal Skateway is a must-visit and an iconic Canadian activity.
There are also lots of museums and art galleries to check out, such as the Canadian Museum of History, which is Canada’s most visited museum.
Byward Market is a magical little hub with shops, eateries and entertainment. During the winter, I love warming up with a cup of hot chocolate at the market's CACAO 70 Eatery.
During the spring, you can see endless blooms at the city's Tulip Festival, which is complete with movies and a market.
Guelph
Address: Guelph, ON
Why You Need To Go: If you're looking for a relaxed weekend getaway not too far from Toronto, Guelph is worth a road trip, especially during the summer months.
The city has a quaint downtown core with lots of shops, restaurants and cafes to enjoy. You can check out second-hand stores, jewelry shops and more.
There are many beautiful trails to explore as well as The Arboretum, where you can wander through beautiful gardens.
At night, you can catch a movie under the stars at the Mustang Drive-in or see a show at the River Run Centre.
One of my favourite spots to visit is The Boathouse. The quaint Tea Room serves up delicious ice cream cones and you can enjoy your treat as you stroll along the river.
Blue Mountain Village
Address: 156 Jozo Weider Blvd., The Blue Mountains, ON
Why You Need To Go: You can take a mini trip to Europe at this charming pedestrian village. This spot has "weekend getaway" written all over it and is home to endless year-round fun.
Winter is my favourite time to visit as the village transforms into a dazzling Christmas dreamland. You can follow an illuminated trail around the area and enjoy twinkling decor and magical installations.
The mountaintop skating trail is an enchanting spot for a snowy-weather date and you'll also want to hit the slopes for skiing and snowboarding.
You can fly through a forest on the mountain coaster or enjoy some of the annual events like the Apple Harvest Weekend.
The quaint small town of Collingwood is just minutes from Blue Mountain Village so you can enjoy both destinations during your weekend away.
Collingwood's downtown has so many shops, cafes and eateries to explore and is home to some luxurious boutique hotels.
There are so many beautiful weekend getaway spots in the province and you can't really go wrong! From small towns to vibrant cities, Ontario is full of fun destinations. But if you're looking for some inspo, these are some of my top picks.
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.
