Considering that Ontario is bigger than some European countries, it’s no surprise that it’s populous and boasts an assortment of places for locals and travelers to enjoy. Just when you think you’ve seen it all and discovered some of the best places to visit in Ontario, you’ll probably discover another hidden gem shortly thereafter. With so much to explore, Ontario truly has a bit of something for everyone – much like an online casino.
Choosing which unique places to visit in Canada can be challenging, especially because there are everything from hiking trails to top nightclubs and nature reserves on offer. However, this concise list should provide the guidance you need.
Unique Places in Ontario
1. Flowerpot Island
If you’re on the hunt for some of the most Instagrammable spots in Ontario, Flowerpot Island ticks the box and is one of the best places to see in Ontario. Located in Georgian Bay in Ontario, Flowerpot Island is a part of Fathom Five National Marine Park. Its name is inspired by what it offers – beautiful rock pillars resembling flowerpots. Adventurous souls and nature lovers can also delight in exploring caves, a historic light station and various rare plants.
To get to this picturesque island, you must ferry from Tobermory Harbor. There are two private companies that offer return ferries for when you’ve soaked up the beauty and are ready to head back home. The best time to visit the island is mid-spring to early fall, allowing you to explore it fully and enjoy activities such as camping and hiking.
If you’re only heading to Flowerpot Island for a day trip, be sure to book in advance because although boats make several trips to and from the island throughout the day, it can get busy. Arguably one of the most fun things to do in Ontario during summer, you can also stop by the shipwrecks on the way to the island for an unforgettable scuba diving experience to literally immerse yourself in a bit of history.
2. Bonnechere Caves
Fancy a bit of mystery and a taste of history all in one? Then this is among the tourist attractions in Ontario that you must visit. Accessible by car or bus at 1247 Fourth Chute Road, the Bonnechere Caves give you the perfect opportunity to get up close and personal with prehistoric fossils, sea creatures and an underground adventure.
Open from May until the end of November, the famed Bonnechere Caves offer guided tours throughout the day, which each last for approximately an hour. Because of how cold it can be underground, make a point of always packing a jacket if you’re heading to the caves so you don’t end up shivering your way through the day. If you time your visit, you can experience a different kind of thrill by being in the vicinity of hibernating bats in the caves if you visit in the last week of September through winter.
3. Thousand Islands
Picture this: a chance to explore more than 1,800 islands and witness the gentle waves splashing with a variety of activities for you to indulge in. For all the nature and water lovers, you’re in for a treat if you go to the Thousand Islands, which are undoubtedly among the fun places in Ontario that keep visitors coming back for more. No prizes for guessing where the name comes from. Collectively, the islands can be found along the Canada/US border.
Should you decide not to drive to the islands, you’ll be happy to know that there’s the option to get the full tourist experience by traveling there by bus or train for something unconventional. Once you reach your destination, the exploration doesn’t have to stop there. You can also travel around from island to island by boat, as there are passenger ferries and tour boats that you can hop on throughout the day.
Some of the most popular activities at Thousand Islands include the day trips, where visitors get to enjoy the best of what the islands have to offer. This includes visiting historical landmarks, fishing, diving, on-the-water dining, drive-in movie experiences and of course, shopping. There are also various accommodation options for visitors to choose from; take your pick from hotels, waterfront inns, motels and private and public campgrounds, just to name a few.
4. North Beach Provincial Park
Situated at 440 North Beach Road, Consecon, North Beach Provincial Park is the perfect getaway destination for a peaceful day with loved ones or solitude and unwinding. The park is only open during summer, allowing you to plan warm-day picnics with endless photo opportunities. Because of the limited opening period, the rush that occurs within it is expected, so it’s advised to always book in advance and check that the activities you plan to do are available.
What is there to do, you might be asking yourself? For starters, you can find your way around Prince Edward County of Belleville in the North Beach area. This opens you up to historic landmarks and leisurely strolls, while fitness enthusiasts can tackle the Millenium Trail instead. There’s also the option to play golf and bingo, as well as a host of kid-friendly activities that make it ideal for a family day out.
Barbeques are permitted and measures such as accessibility paths through the sand have been implemented to make the area more inclusive and welcoming. On particularly windy days, visitors are advised to exercise caution because of dangerous undertow conditions.
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