Here are nine romantic small towns less than 2 hours from Toronto to check out this winter.
Niagara-on-the-Lake
Address: Niagara-on-the-Lake, ON
Distance from Toronto: 1 hour and 30 minutes
Why You Need To Go: Niagara-on-the-Lake is one of the top spots to visit if you're looking for romantic vibes. According to Vintage Hotels, "romance, flavour, superior events and activities make Niagara the ultimate winter date night destination for discerning guests who are looking to cultivate beautiful, memorable experiences with their loved ones."
The town is home to several beautiful hotels as well as dreamy spas where you can get totally pampered. The Victorian-era downtown and quaint shops add to the romance of the area.
The region is brimming with wineries, so you can spend a day sipping in vineyards and enjoying candlelit dinners with your loved one.
Niagara-on-the-Lake Tourism Website
Creemore
Address: Creemore, ON
Distance from Toronto: 1 hour and 45 minutes
Why You Need To Go: You'll feel like you've stepped into a scene from a Hallmark film at this cozy village. Creemore is home to cute bakeries and cafes as well as local shops and restaurants.
According to the town's Instagram, it's "prettier than ever under a blanket of freshly fallen snow like a real-life storybook," so it's a magical winter destination to explore with your favourite person.
Experience Creemore Website
Port Hope
Address: Port Hope, ON
Distance from Toronto: 1 hour
Why You Need To Go: Located just outside of Toronto, Port Hope is a cozy riverside escape that's full of small-town charm.
During the winter, you'll find "snow-dusted streets, sparkling lights, and heartwarming seasonal events," according to the town's website.
The 19th-century main street is a beautiful spot for a stroll, and you can explore the local shops or catch a show at the Capitol Theatre for a dreamy outing.
Visit Port Hope Website
Dundas
Address: Dundas, ON
Distance from Toronto: 1 hour
Why You Need To Go: This quaint small town is a short drive from Toronto and is a cute place to spend a day or more with your favourite person.
Surrounded by stunning hikes and cascades and brimming with shops, Dundas offers lots to do and enjoy.
You can indulge in a romantic dinner at one of the restaurants or book a stay at The HighAcre, a dreamy, South of France-inspired getaway with private spas in every room.
Downtown Dundas Website
Stratford
Address: Stratford, ON
Distance from Toronto: 1 hour and 40 minutes
Why You Need To Go: This little city with small-town vibes is a gorgeous spot for a romantic escape.
Nestled on the shores of the Avon River, Stratford boasts European charm and a vibrant downtown filled with cafes and shops.
For an extra sweet outing, you can explore the Chocolate Trail, which takes you to "world-famous confectioners and bakers," according to the website.
Or, you can grab a treat from cozy cafes like The Livery Yard, The Ashborne Cafe and Balzac's Stratford.
There are several quaint inns and boutique hotels to book if you're planning a longer getaway.
Visit Stratford Website
Port Perry
Address: Port Perry, ON
Distance from Toronto: 1 hour
Why You Need To Go: This lakeside village will have you feeling like you stepped into a rom-com. The main street is lined with old-world buildings and there are so many cute shops to explore.
You can also head to some of the restaurants and bakeries to enjoy some delicious food with your favourite person.
A stroll along the frosty waterfront is a dreamy way to end the day.
Port Perry BIA Website
Elora
Address: Elora, ON
Distance from Toronto: 1 hour and 20 minutes
Why You Need To Go: There's nowhere more charming to enjoy a romantic getaway than in Ontario's "most beautiful village."
From Fridays to Sundays until March 16, the town is hosting a Village of Lights event—a "vintage après ski spectacular" with light ceremonies, installations, live bagpipe bands, free figure skating, and more, according to the website.
You'll feel like you're spending the day in a winter storybook as you enjoy the atmosphere and events with your loved one.
Elora BIA Website
Unionville
Address: Unionville, ON
Distance from Toronto: 30 minutes
Why You Need To Go: If you're craving some small-town vibes but don't want to go too far, Unionville is an idyllic spot to spend a day.
The village is like a mini trip to Stars Hollow and you can even take a Gilmore Girls tour of the town.
You'll want to stop by the Old Firehall Confectionary, where you'll find all sorts of treats and goodies that will make your day extra sweet.
For a romantic date, Unionville is home to several cozy eateries, from candlelit restaurants to charming cafés, perfect for enjoying a warm drink or a delicious meal in a storybook setting.
Main Street Unionville Website
St. Jacobs Village
Address: St. Jacobs Village, ON
Distance from Toronto: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Why You Need To Go: St. Jacobs is an old-world village that feels like a winter fairytale, making it an idyllic spot for a romantic getaway. With snow-covered streets and quaint shops, you and your partner can cozy up and explore the town's magical sights and experiences.
You'll want to stop by the St. Jacobs Farmers’ Market, where you can shop for local goods, sip on hot apple cider, and bite into freshly baked pastries.
For a cozy date, you can stop by one of the cafes or bakeries in the downtown area where you'll find all sorts of delicious treats.
St. Jacobs Village Website
With fairytale charm and winter magic, these small towns are romantic spots to enjoy with your loved one.
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.
