Ontario Is Yours To Discover This Long Weekend
We often get caught up daydreaming about destinations far from home. We scroll through Instagram and wish we were laying on a beach in the Caribbean, exploring the cobblestone streets of European cities or gorging out at food markets in South East Asia. These dreamy destinations occupy our thoughts and distract us from the gems we can find in our own backyard.
Ontario is a province with beautiful parks, charming towns and cool, crystal clear lakes. There is so much to discover in Ontario so we rounded up our favourite places to explore.
Stratford
Known for its theatres and being the birthplace of Justin Bieber, this town in southwest Ontario is just a two-hour drive from Toronto. Start your day at a local café and then take a pleasant stroll, admiring the Victorian style buildings that line the narrow streets and breathing the fresh air as you walk along the river. All that walking will surely work up an appetite. Luckily there are many small, locally-owned restaurants in the downtown area where you can enjoy a delicious lunch or dinner. After your meal, head to one of the many theatres and enjoy an unforgettable show that will keep you engrossed and have you texting your friends to buy tickets for future performances.
Hamilton’s Waterfall Network
Just a quick drive out of the city you will find the ideal nature escape. Hamilton is home to a network of 100 waterfalls, giving explorers a multitude of scenic spots and perfect photo opportunities. You can spend the day hiking one of the trails and then cool down with a swim under a gorgeous waterfall. One of the most popular view points is Dundas Peak – a short and easy hike will get you to a beautiful outlook for the perfect Instagram photo. When you have your fill of nature for the day, head over into downtown Hamilton for a delicious dinner at one of the internationally influenced unique eateries.
Cambridge
This town has a special charm you won’t find anywhere else in Ontario. With cobblestone buildings lining the main street, a river running through the town and more than 20 walking trails, Cambridge is the perfect destination for people who can’t decide between an outdoor adventure or city escape. Make sure you check out the Saturday Farmer’s Market, caffeinate yourself at a local coffee shop and bring out your inner foodie at one of the many delicious restaurants in the Galt neighbourhood.
Georgian Bay
Clear blue water, fresh air and beaches that beckon you to spread out a blanket and get some sun, Georgian Bay has everything you need to enjoy the hot Ontario summer. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can hike the Bruce Trail, Canada’s oldest and longest footpath. Or if you want to chill out, you can take a dip in the clear water and relax on the sandy Wasaga Beach.
Ottawa
Visiting the capital of our country is a must for any Canadian. If you like culture and history, you can tour the Parliament buildings (for free!) and visit one of the many museums and galleries. Nature lovers can hike one of the trails at Gatineau Park, canoe on Dow’s lake, and skate the Rideau Canal or rollerblade the path that runs parallel to it. For those searching for the quintessential Ottawa experience, grab a beaver tail and check out Byward Market. Stay up late - enjoy some craft brews at one of the bars on Elgin Street and end your night with the locals at Elgin Street Diner.