Map Of Counties In Southern Ontario
Discover the Best of Southern Ontario
Located in eastern Canada, Southern Ontario is a hidden gem waiting to be explored. The region is home to bustling cities, charming small towns, and breathtaking natural wonders. Whether you’re a history buff, an adventure seeker, or a foodie, Southern Ontario has something for everyone. In this travel guide, we’ll take you on a journey through the counties of Southern Ontario, highlighting the top attractions, hidden gems, and off-the-beaten-path experiences.
Top Attractions in Southern Ontario
If you’re visiting Southern Ontario, you can’t miss the iconic CN Tower in Toronto. The tower offers stunning views of the city and is a must-visit for any first-time visitor. Another popular attraction is Niagara Falls, which straddles the border between Canada and the United States. If you’re looking for a more laid-back experience, the Stratford Festival is a world-renowned theatre festival that takes place every summer. The festival features performances of Shakespearean plays and other classics.
Hidden Gems in Southern Ontario
If you’re looking for something off the beaten path, consider visiting Prince Edward County. This charming county is home to a thriving wine scene, with over 40 wineries to explore. You can also visit the Sandbanks Provincial Park, which boasts some of the best beaches in Ontario. Another hidden gem is the town of Elora, which is known for its stunning gorge and quaint downtown area.
Food Scene in Southern Ontario
Southern Ontario is a foodie’s paradise, with a diverse range of culinary experiences to discover. In Toronto, you can explore the city’s vibrant Chinatown and enjoy delicious dim sum, or visit St. Lawrence Market for fresh produce and artisanal goodies. Beyond Toronto, there are plenty of farm-to-table restaurants and food festivals to check out. For a unique culinary experience, consider visiting the Butter Tart Trail in the Kawarthas, where you can sample some of Canada’s most iconic desserts.
Budget-Friendly Tips for Southern Ontario
Traveling in Southern Ontario doesn’t have to break the bank. Consider visiting during the off-season, when prices are lower and crowds are thinner. You can also save money by staying in budget-friendly accommodations, such as hostels or campgrounds. Another cost-saving tip is to take advantage of free activities, such as hiking in provincial parks or visiting museums on their free days.
Outdoor Adventures in Southern Ontario
For nature lovers, Southern Ontario is a paradise. The region is home to some of the best hiking trails in Canada, including the Bruce Trail and the Ganaraska Trail. You can also explore the region’s many lakes and rivers by canoe or kayak, or try your hand at fishing. If you’re looking for a more adrenaline-fueled adventure, consider ziplining, bungee jumping, or rock climbing.
Historical Landmarks in Southern Ontario
From the War of 1812 to the Underground Railroad, Southern Ontario has a rich and fascinating history. There are many historical landmarks to explore, including Fort York in Toronto, the Welland Canal, and the Black Creek Pioneer Village. You can also visit the many museums and galleries in the region, such as the Royal Ontario Museum and the Art Gallery of Ontario.
Family-Friendly Activities in Southern Ontario
Traveling with kids? Southern Ontario has plenty of family-friendly activities to keep everyone entertained. You can visit the Toronto Zoo, where you can see over 5,000 animals from around the world. Another great option is Canada’s Wonderland, a theme park with over 200 attractions and rides. For a more educational experience, consider visiting the Ontario Science Centre or the Royal Ontario Museum.
Natural Wonders in Southern Ontario
From the rugged beauty of the Georgian Bay to the stunning landscapes of Algonquin Provincial Park, Southern Ontario is home to some of the most beautiful natural wonders in the world. You can explore the region’s many lakes and waterfalls, or hike through the forests and mountains. For a unique natural experience, consider visiting the world’s largest freshwater archipelago at Thousand Islands National Park.
Vibrant Nightlife in Southern Ontario
When the sun goes down, Southern Ontario comes alive. Toronto is home to some of the best nightlife in Canada, with a thriving bar and club scene. You can also explore the many music venues and theaters in the city, such as the Danforth Music Hall and the Royal Alexandra Theatre. Beyond Toronto, there are many smaller towns and cities with their own unique nightlife scenes.
Local Markets in Southern Ontario
One of the best ways to experience the local culture in Southern Ontario is by visiting the many farmers’ markets and artisanal shops in the region. In Toronto, you can explore the St. Lawrence Market, which has been a hub of food and culture for over 200 years. You can also visit the many craft fairs and markets that take place throughout the year, such as the One of a Kind Show and the Toronto Christmas Market.
Beaches and Mountains in Southern Ontario
While Southern Ontario may not be known for its beaches and mountains, the region has plenty of natural beauty to discover. You can visit the stunning beaches of Prince Edward County or explore the rugged landscapes of the Bruce Peninsula. For a more mountainous experience, consider visiting Blue Mountain, which offers skiing, snowboarding, and hiking.
Cultural Immersion in Southern Ontario
From the vibrant neighborhoods of Toronto to the charming small towns of Southern Ontario, the region is home to a diverse range of cultures and communities. You can explore the city’s many ethnic enclaves, such as Little Italy and Greektown, or visit the many festivals and celebrations that take place throughout the year. For a more immersive experience, consider taking a cooking class or a language course.
Art and Music Scene in Southern Ontario
Southern Ontario has a thriving art and music scene, with many galleries, museums, and music venues to explore. In Toronto, you can visit the Art Gallery of Ontario or the Royal Conservatory of Music. You can also explore the city’s many street art installations and public murals. Beyond Toronto, there are many smaller towns and cities with their own unique artistic communities.
Walking Tours in Southern Ontario
One of the best ways to explore Southern Ontario is on foot. You can take a walking tour of Toronto’s many neighborhoods, such as Kensington Market and the Distillery District. You can also explore the many historic sites and landmarks in the region, such as the Parliament Buildings in Ottawa or the Kingston City Hall. For a more specialized experience, consider taking a food tour or a haunted walking tour.
Architectural Marvels in Southern Ontario
Southern Ontario is home to many stunning architectural marvels, from historic buildings to modern skyscrapers. In Toronto, you can visit the iconic CN Tower or explore the city’s many Art Deco buildings. You can also visit the many historic homes and estates in the region, such as Casa Loma and the McMichael Canadian Art Collection. For a more modern experience, consider visiting the Aga Khan Museum or the Ontario Science Centre.
Historical Sites in Southern Ontario
From the War of 1812 to the Underground Railroad, Southern Ontario has a rich and fascinating history. There are many historical sites to explore, including Fort York in Toronto, the Welland Canal, and the Black Creek Pioneer Village. You can also visit the many museums and galleries in the region, such as the Royal Ontario Museum and the Art Gallery of Ontario.
Biking Routes in Southern Ontario
If you’re a cycling enthusiast, Southern Ontario has many scenic biking routes to explore. You can cycle along the Waterfront Trail, which runs along the shores of Lake Ontario and Lake Erie. You can also explore the many trails in the region’s provincial parks, such as Algonquin Provincial Park and Killarney Provincial Park. For a more urban experience, consider cycling through Toronto’s many neighborhoods and parks.
Wellness Retreats in Southern Ontario
If you’re looking for a relaxing getaway, Southern Ontario has many wellness retreats to choose from. You can visit the Scandinave Spa in Blue Mountain, which offers hot and cold baths, saunas, and massages. You can also visit the Grail Springs Retreat Centre, which offers yoga classes, meditation sessions, and detox programs. For a more outdoorsy experience, consider visiting one of the region’s many eco-lodges or glamping sites.
Adventure Sports in Southern Ontario
For adrenaline junkies, Southern Ontario has many adventure sports to try. You can go whitewater rafting in the Ottawa River or try your hand at kiteboarding on Lake Huron. You can also go skydiving, bungee jumping, or ziplining. For a more family-friendly adventure, consider visiting one of the region’s many treetop adventure parks or indoor climbing gyms.
With so much to see and do in Southern Ontario, it’s no wonder that the region is quickly becoming a top travel destination. Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventure, cultural immersion, or a relaxing getaway, Southern Ontario has something for everyone.