15 Ontario small towns you will fall in love with

Ontario is proud of its small towns 💛 I carefully curated this list to share with you the most charming little towns that are often overlooked by travellers. Any of these places can make for a fun day trip or a weekend getaway ⬇️ Interested in going on a trip but don’t want to deal with the small details? Just ask me about my pre-made lists! Or, we can curate something custom.

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Elora

@hollymarietravels

Elora is a picturesque little town perched on a gorge ☺️ The biggest appeal is the Elora Mill Hotel/Spa & conservation area, but the streets are cobblestone and lined with many shops, cafes, and bars. It gets busy in the summer months, but during the holidays it’s far less busy. Send me a DM for my local recs ($5) ✨

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Stratford

@hollymarietravels

You might have heard of the Stratford Festival (where music lovers alike 🎵 gather). August is the peak time for tourism and summer is my preferred time to visit, there's lots to see & do all year around. Send me a DM for my local recs ($5) ✨

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Goderich

@hollymarietravels

Goderich is a small coastal town on Lake Huron. In recent years, it won the honorable mention of being the "prettiest town in Canada" 💙 One unique thing about downtown is that its shaped in an Octogon (with a large round about). The sunsets on Lake Huron are the most gorgeous in Ontario ☀️ Grab a blanket and stroll down the boardwalk to St. Christopher's beach for a sunset picnic.

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Paris

@hollymarietravels

This one is close to my new home, so I have lots of good local recs to share 🙌 Paris is very picturesque and set on the Grand River. Whatever you're looking for - shopping, eating, drinking, you'll find it here. Send me a DM for my local recs ($5) ✨

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St. Jacobs

@hollymarietravels

Near Kitchener/Waterloo is the small Mennonite village of St. Jacobs. The main street doesn't cover much distance, but it’s packed with shops, restaurants, and a brewery. We spent a weekend here recently. Don’t forget to stop at the Farmers Market (they have the best Apple fritters)! Send me a DM for my local recs ($5) ✨

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Paisley

@hollymarietravels

Also known as the "Artistic Village" of Ontario 🎨 The historic downtown is full of energic colors and wall art (there's 5 murals). There's also 7 km of trails to explore in town, or the 80 km Bruce Rail trail (for multi-use). Come explore the Bruce 💙 Send me a DM for my local recs for the area ($5) ✨

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Creemore

@hollymarietravels

First thing that comes to mind is their craft brewery. But that’s not all this beautiful small town has going for it. Send me a DM for my local recs ($5) ✨

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Sparta

@hollymarietravels

Sparta is a nostalgic memory of growing up as a kid in St. Thomas. This is a must-visit if you're in the area. They are known for their homemade candles, arts & crafts, and even a winery 🍷 See below for a few local recs: ➡️ Anything Used and Sparta County Candles ➡️ Rush Creek Winery ➡️ Winter Wheat

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Lindsay

@hollymarietravels

Linsday is a favorite for cyclists on the beautiful Kawartha Trans Canada trail. It’s also on the Trent Severn Waterway. Here’s some fun facts for you: 🎄It was a filming location for the movie "A Christmas Story" 🚗It has one of the widest downtown streets in Ontario Send me a DM for my local recs ($5) ✨

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Wellington

@hollymarietravels

This vibrant town is tucked away in Prince Edward County 💙 or "The County" as known by locals. It’s all about the small businesses and community spirit here. And that's why I love it so much. There are a few small towns in PEC (it’s quite a large county) but Wellington is one of the best. Send me a DM for my local recs ($5) ✨ Or better yet, let's plan your next weekend getaway! You can also check out my free list of the best places to eat/drink in PEC.

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Midland

@hollymarietravels

We stumbled upon Midland by mistake on the drive up to Georgian Bay. Now it’s on my list of favorite small towns to visit 💙 There’s a few notable historic sites, over 30 wall murals scattered through town, REALLY good local food spots, and some fun experiences you can book. Send me a DM for my local recs ($5) ✨

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Meaford

@hollymarietravels

There are a few charming towns near the Georgian Bay, but Meaford is making it to the list! It is often overshadowed by its popular neighbor - 📍 Blue Mountain Village (not on this list). In my opinion it has a more authentic vibe, which I love. There are so many things see & do in Meaford and the surrounding area of Georgian Bay. It's my go-to for good wine, beaches, and unqiue small travel experiences. Send me a DM for my local recs ($5) ✨

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Coldwater

@hollymarietravels

If you’re in Orillia county, you'll stumble upon the charming Coldwater village 🏠 Explore the historic downtown core and little shops. The mill and small local farmers market are a must-see. Send me a DM for my local recs ($5) ✨

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Orillia

@hollymarietravels

Just past Barrie, on Lake Couchiching, you’ll find this small town gem ⬇️ 🚲Biking on the waterfront trail 🛍Lots of shopping (I love the antiques and specialty shops) 🍽Lots of patios to grab a drink and eat some good local food Send me a DM for my local recs ($5) ✨

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Dundas

@hollymarietravels

Right at the foot of the Niagara Escarpment is the small town of Dundas. The Dundas Valley is full of things to do - scenic hikes, waterfalls, farm visits, horse sleighs in the winter. I also need to give credit to the local food & craft beer scene 👌 Lots of good stuff here! Send me a DM for my local recs ($5) ✨

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Holly Marie Baughman

I’m an Ontario based creative (soon to be moving to Montreal, Quebec) with a love for locally-inspired travel experiences. I curate guides & trips that help spread the love to smaller businesses + local communities 💛 My expertise is finding lesser known places that are usually hard to find or book ⬇️ Shop my trips and find me on Instagram (@hollymarietravels) to start planning your next trip! 📍Personalized lists start at $15 📍Custom itineraries start at $50/day 📍Guides (pricing varies, shop below)

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Ontario, Canada