Ontario is vast, so vast that if you started in Ottawa and drove straight west, it would take you nearly 24 hours just to cross into Manitoba. I know, I’ve done it more than once and I always love telling people just how huge our province is and then watching their face. Ontario is quite literally bigger than many countries. The upside if you live here? You could spend years (yes, years) exploring the small towns in Ontario, from heritage main streets to lakeside villages, and still only scratch the surface.
Beyond the big cities, Ontario is brimming with small towns full of history, waterfalls, antique shops, festivals, and charm. Whether you’re looking for a quick day trip, a weekend getaway, or inspiration for a longer road trip, these small towns invite you to slow down, explore, and soak up local flavour. This page brings together some of my favourite towns, seasonal highlights and regions in Ontario — and it’s only the beginning.
Start Exploring Small Towns in Ontario
Almonte: The Small Town That Stole Hallmark’s Heart
Almonte is one of Ontario’s most picture-perfect small towns, complete with a roaring waterfall, heritage stone buildings, and a main street packed with boutiques and cafés. It’s so charming, Hallmark has filmed 24 Christmas movies here.
Read my full guide to things to do in Almonte
Festival of Small Halls
Every fall, the Ontario Festival of Small Halls brings big music to little places. Almonte’s historic Town Hall is one of its most magical venues, with intimate concerts by some of Canada’s best artists.
Learn more about the Festival of Small Halls
Fall Colours in Grey County: One of Ontario’s Best Small Town Escapes
When autumn hits, Grey County puts on a show. Rolling hills, cideries, farmers’ markets, and trails make it one of the best fall getaways in Ontario.
Plan your Grey County fall getaway
Ontario Highlands: Exploring Small Towns in Ontario’s Countryside
Think waterfalls, winding country roads, and outdoor adventures. The Ontario Highlands region offers the perfect balance of nature, food, and charming towns — all within driving distance of Ottawa and Toronto.
Explore the Ontario Highlands
Fall Colours in Ontario
Ontario puts on one of the best autumn shows in Canada. From late September to mid-October, the province turns into a patchwork of fiery red maples, golden birches, and bright orange oaks. Whether you’re chasing a scenic drive, a quiet hike, or a photo-worthy lookout, there are endless places to experience peak fall foliage.
I’ve put together a full guide to help you plan the ultimate autumn adventure:
Read my guide to the best fall colours in Ontario
Christmas Markets in Ontario’s Small Towns
Ontario’s small towns truly shine at Christmas, when main streets light up with twinkle lights, artisan vendors, and live music. These markets feel like walking into a snow globe — cozy, festive, and full of charm.
Some of the best small-town Christmas markets include:
- Almonte Christmas Market – Just 45 minutes from Ottawa, this one is pure Hallmark vibes with heritage buildings and lights reflecting off the falls.
- Niagara-on-the-Lake Christmas Market – A picturesque wine-country town that goes all out with holiday décor and vendors.
- Stratford Christmas Trail – Known for its theatre scene, Stratford transforms into a festive village with artisanal stops and gifts.
- Christmas in Merrickville – The “Jewel of the Rideau” is even more magical when dressed for the holidays.
- Once Upon a Christmas in Perth – A classic small-town Ontario experience with historic stone buildings lit up for the season.
I’ve put together a full guide to the best Christmas markets in Ontario with more details if you’re planning a holiday road trip.
Where to See Santa in Ontario
Santa always makes time for Ontario’s small towns, and many communities pull out all the stops with parades, visits, and special events. Whether you’re looking for a classic small-town Santa parade or a unique holiday experience, there’s no shortage of places to get into the festive spirit.
Discover the best places to see Santa in Ontario
Beaches in Southwest Ontario
For lake lovers, Ontario’s small towns shine along the shores of its stunning lakes. Whether you’re looking for kid-friendly sand or photo-worthy sunsets, Southwest Ontario has beaches that pair small-town charm with world-class waterfront beauty.
From Blue Flag-certified sandy shores to accessible beaches for the whole family, here are some of our favorites:
- Port Stanley – A gentle sandy bottom and warm waters make this a go-to for families — complete with accessibility mats and Blue Flag quality.
- Grand Bend – A classic beach town vibe with restaurants, shops, and a long stretch of soft sand.
- Canatara Park (Sarnia) – Quiet and park-like, with playgrounds and clean, safe water.
- Port Burwell & Long Point – Family-friendly, Blue Flag-recognized, and backed by protected nature and quiet charm.
These beaches are just the tip of the iceberg—each one sits near quaint communities that offer plenty more to explore.
Want the full scoop?
Dive deeper with my guide to the best beaches in Southwest Ontario to plan your next lakeside small-town escape.
Best Time to Visit Small Towns in Ontario
Ontario’s small towns shine all year. Here is how I plan trips, season by season.
Spring: Maple syrup weekends, gardens waking up, and waterfalls running high. Trails are quieter and shops reopen with fresh stock.
Summer: Patios, farmers’ markets, festivals, and lake days. Long daylight means more time to wander main streets and scenic back roads.
Fall: Blazing colour on country drives, harvest markets, cider flights, and fewer crowds midweek. Pack layers and your camera.
Winter: Christmas markets, twinkle-lit main streets, outdoor skating, and cozy inns. Bundle up and lean into the rom-com vibes.
Any season works. Pick your vibe, choose a town, and start exploring.
Coming Soon: More Ontario Small Towns
This list is always growing. Stay tuned for new guides to small towns like:
- Perth
- Merrickville
- Westport
- Grand Bend
- Wellington
- Antique shopping towns near Ottawa and Toronto
