Visiting Ontario in 10 must-see places

Do you know Ontario? Nestled between the Great Lakes region, Hudson Bay, and the provinces of Quebec and Manitoba, this Canadian province, as large as France and Spain combined, boasts exceptional diversity.

From Toronto to Algonquin Provincial Park, explore this vast Canadian province on a road trip to Canada to discover dynamic cities and incredible nature. So if you're looking for ideas, here's what you need for visiting Ontario in 10 must-see places!
 

Map of the 10 must-visit places in Ontario

#1. Niagara Falls

It's impossible to discover Ontario in 10 must-see places without visiting Niagara Falls. Considered by many as the 8^th wonder of the world, this 50 m high waterfall impresses with the power of its flow.

The Skylon Tower is one of the best spots to admire them. You can also walk the 1.6 km from Rainbow Bridge to Table Rock. Then, take the elevator down to a tunnel to the base of the falls. If you don't mind getting wet, don't hesitate to book a cruise at the foot of Niagara Falls.

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#2. Toronto

Welcome to the largest city in Canada! Dubbed the "Queen City", Toronto is a vibrant, multicultural metropolis. A destination that you must absolutely include in your Canada tour itinerary.

Go up the CN Tower, and then continue with the Royal Ontario Museum and the Art Gallery of Ontario. For shopping, head to the Eaton Center and proceed to the Distillery District. This former distillery, now turned into a trendy pedestrian neighborhood, is a true institution in Toronto. Lastly, don't miss Casa Loma, this magnificent 98-room mansion.

#3. Thousand Islands National Park

During your trip to Canada, make sure to visit Thousand Islands National Park which is located on the Saint Lawrence River, at the outlet of Lake Ontario. These scattered islets on the sparkling waters are like something out of a postcard. The best way to discover them is by taking a cruise through the Thousand Islands.

From the boat, you can admire romantic castles and the world’s smallest international bridge on Zavikon Island. Back on land, take the Thousand Islands Parkway for breathtaking views.

#4. Ottawa

Located at the junction of three picturesque rivers, Ottawa is considered one of the most beautiful capitals of the world. It's a must-see during a trip to Canada! Its famous Rideau Canal, a UNESCO World Heritage site, turns into the world's largest natural ice rink in the winter season.

Watch the Changing of the Guard on Parliament Hill and then go on a cruise on the Ottawa River. Afterwards, grab a coffee on Sparks Street before visiting the neo-Gothic Notre-Dame Cathedral. Finally, if you enjoy spending time in museums, you'll be delighted, as Ottawa has an absolutely incredible cultural offering.

#5. Bruce Peninsula National Park

Considered one of the most breathtaking natural wonders in Canada, Bruce Peninsula National Park has turquoise waters and steep cliffs. With Lake Huron on one side and Georgian Bay on the other, you will be in paradise if you love swimming.

Hiking trails crisscross the forests and run along the coast of this UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve. One of the highlights of your visit is the hike up to The Grotto. Keep an eye out, you might spot a black bear around the corner...

#6. Algonquin Provincial Park

Welcome to the oldest and largest provincial park in Ontario. Easily accessible from Toronto or Ottawa, you will have the opportunity to discover wild nature made of lakes, rivers, and forests. Algonquin Provincial Park has 7 major rivers, more than 2,500 lakes, and 1,600 km of waterways, making it the perfect place for hiking and canoeing!

With a bit of luck, you might even spot moose (the symbolic animal of Algonquin Park), black bears, wolves, deer, and plenty of birds. The best season to come is in the fall when the park is adorned with red, orange, and yellow leaves.

#7. Point Pelee National Park

By bike, hiking, or on the water, come and discover Point Pelee National Park, a must-visit place in Ontario! This park, located at the tip of the Huron-Erie peninsula that separates the two Great Lakes that bear its name, stretches over a 16-kilometer-long sand strip. It is, in fact, the southernmost point in Canada.

Point Pelee National Park is home to an incredible diversity of fauna and flora. Located on the migration routes of the Mississippi and the Atlantic, it is also a passageway for many migratory birds. In spring and autumn, ornithology enthusiasts come in large numbers to observe some of the 350 species of the park.

#8. The Lake Superior Scenic Route

Come discover the wild nature of Ontario by driving on one of Canada's most famous scenic routes along the north shore of Lake Superior. From Sault Ste. Marie to Thunder Bay, the Trans-Canada Highway 17 crosses 700 kilometers of shores and forests.

You will pass through the Lake Superior Provincial Park, which protects the wilderness areas along the river's shore. Closer to Thunder Bay, in Sleeping Giant Provincial Park, you will see the coast plunge into the lake in the form of an impressive plateau of cliffs, promontories, and rocks.

#9. Manitoulin Island

Located on Lake Huron, Manitoulin Island is the largest freshwater island in the world. It is a must-visit destination in Ontario to discover the culture of the Anishinaabe First Nations and engage in outdoor activities.

Come lay your towel on Providence Bay beach and then hit the Cup and Saucer Trail to reach one of the island's most spectacular lookout points. If you still have energy, head to Bridal Veil Falls where you can swim and even walk behind the waterfall.

#10. The Sandbanks Beaches

If you are longing for dunes and fine sand, then head to Sandbanks Provincial Park on the shores of Lake Ontario! To swim in warm and shallow waters, go to Dunes Beach.

Outlet Beach is a favorite among families. If you're looking for tranquility, Lakeshore Beach should please you. For walking, I recommend the trails of Cedar Sands Nature Trail and Sandbanks Dunes Trail. In the vicinity, you can also visit the wineries of Wine County. The Sandbanks beaches are also an excellent starting point for exploring Prince Edward County.

You now have all the keys to visit Ontario in 10 must-see places. Enough to make a great road trip in Canada!

Feel free to ask questions and share your experiences in the comments.