Summary
Toronto is a bustling, multicultural metropolis with exceptional restaurants, hotels, shopping, and theater. However, consider balancing a hectic Toronto itinerary with nearby communities that are rich in small-town charm. These small towns convey the unique aspects of Ontario’s history and character, giving visitors a fuller Canadian experience.
01. Country Fare and a Fetching Downtown in Picton, Prince Edward County
The largest community in the lovely agricultural region of Prince Edward County, Picton features a charming main street perfect for meandering.
Spend a day discovering the many shops like City Revival, a huge consignment store with designer labels, or enjoy a coffee at Miss Lily’s, followed by browsing at Books and Company—a delightful bookstore complete with a resident cat, quality second-hand books, and comfortable seating.
Prince Edward County is famous for its wineries and vineyards, local agricultural fare (explore the Taste Trail), arts and crafts (follow the Arts Trail), Sandbanks Provincial Park located right on the beach, and numerous cycling trails.
Things to Do: Shop, bike, antique shop, wine taste, hike, beach
Distance From Toronto: 215 km (134 mi) or 2.5 hours by car.
Public Transportation: GO Train from Toronto to Belleville, which is about 30 minutes from Picton; however, having a car to visit Prince Edward County is recommended.
Nearby: Kingston, a historic city and Canada’s original capital, is one hour away.
02. Wine and Culture in Niagara-on-the-Lake
While Niagara Falls is grand and brash, Niagara-on-the-Lake is charming, elegant, and tasteful.
Recognized for its annual Shaw Theatre Festival, Niagara-on-the-Lake features a captivating main street surrounded by beautifully restored heritage homes, gardens, and numerous wineries.
This area is also known as a prime golf destination, featuring several excellent courses nearby.
In keeping with its historic character, Niagara-on-the-Lake is more of a B&B destination, so consider choosing a charming smaller accommodation instead of a large hotel chain.
Things to Do: Wine taste, see a show, garden tour, golf, bike, hike
Distance From Toronto: 130 km (81 mi) or 1.5 hours by car.
Public Transportation: Seasonal GO Train service, along with numerous buses and shuttles.
Nearby: Niagara Falls, Buffalo, St. Catharines
03. Small Town Charm in Dundas
Dundas is a hidden gem appreciated by its community, increasingly populated by Toronto residents seeking more affordable housing and green spaces outside the urban bustle.
Technically part of Hamilton, Dundas boasts a distinct identity due to its location in a valley, offering a multitude of conservation areas, trails, and waterfalls.
This town of approximately 20,000 has resisted urban sprawl, preserving a vibrant main street dotted with long-standing restaurants, boutiques, and businesses featuring well-preserved 19th-century architecture. It’s the type of main street where drivers yield to pedestrians, fostering a friendly atmosphere.
Don’t miss the Dundas Museum and Archives located on one of the town’s most beautiful residential streets. Quatrefoil stands as the town’s five-star dining option.
Things to Do: Shop, hike, visit galleries/museums, bike
Distance From Toronto: 71 km (44 mi) or 1 hour by car.
Public Transportation: The closest GO Train is available from Aldershot or Hamilton, approximately 15-20 minutes away.
Nearby: Royal Botanical Gardens, Hamilton attractions
04. Heritage Beauty in Port Hope
Situated just over an hour from Toronto, Port Hope is home to Ontario’s best-preserved 19th-century streetscape. With 300 heritage-designated buildings, the town boasts the highest preservation rate per capita in Canada, exuding unique historic charm best appreciated on foot.
If you are traveling leisurely to Montreal or Kingston, Port Hope serves as an excellent stop for a quick break or even an overnight stay. The well-preserved Waddell Hotel, built in 1845, overlooks the Ganaraska River right on the main drag.
Things to Do: Shop, beach, fish, golf, hike
Distance From Toronto: 109 km (68 mi) or just over one hour by car.
Public Transportation: GO Train to Port Hope station.
Nearby: Ste Anne’s Spa
05. Riverside Appeal of Elora
The town of Elora, along with nearby Elmira and Fergus, showcases small-town Ontario at its finest. Renowned for its 19th-century limestone architecture, Elora also features the Elora Quarry Conservation Area, a popular swimming spot. Uniquely positioned along the Grand River and Elora Gorge, this charming village offers interesting shops, country inns, and quaint B&Bs.
Things to Do: Shop, tube down the Grand River, hike, Fergus Scottish Festival, Elora Festival, Elora-Fergus Artist Studio Tour.
Distance From Toronto: 116 km (72 mi) or 1.5 hours by car.
Public Transportation: Not available
Nearby: St. Jacobs Country
