6 Ontario Towns You Have to Visit This Winter
Ontario has the most magical towns. During the Winter months Ontario’s small towns are transformed into a Winter Wonderland, hence, making Winter the most magical time of the year to visit small towns in Ontario. In this post, I’ll recommend 6 Ontario towns to visit this Winter.
I love creating valuable content for you my readers, however, there is a cost to maintaining a website and there may be affiliate links scattered throughout the website. By clicking on the links there is no extra cost to you, however, I may receive a small profit.
There are so many reasons why Winter is the best time to explore. Firstly, there are way less tourists so you won’t encounter lineups and wait-times. For many of Ontario’s tourist towns, Winter is considered low season and it wouldn’t be a surprise to see a price drop. The main reason why Winter is the best time to explore Ontario towns is that it’s the most magical time of the year AND it will get you into the Christmas spirit!
Winter is the perfect time to visit Canada, so pack your bags, bundle up, and start exploring the most magical Winter towns in Ontario!
MAGICAL ONTARIO TOWNS TO VISIT THIS WINTER
Bracebridge, Ontario
Recommended by Stephanie from The World As I See It
One of the most magical towns in Ontario to visit in the winter is Bracebridge! While it’s a popular destination in Muskoka in the summer months for water activities, Bracebridge is a wonderful place to visit all year long, especially in the winter! With its convenient location right off Highway 11, it makes for a great day trip from Toronto or even winter weekend getaway!
There are a sleighful of things to do in Bracebridge in the winter! One of the best attractions is the three main waterfalls that can be found right in town. If adventure is what you’re after, strap on a pair of snowshoes and hit one of the many trails in the area. Or head over to Liv Outside Centre to try ice climbing or fat biking!
In addition, there’s plenty to do right downtown! You can take a self-guided historic walking tour to learn more about the town’s history. Or consider some retail therapy, for Christmas shopping or for yourself. Bracebridge is home to a lot of sweet boutique shops, with items ranging from books to local artisan goods.
One of the biggest winter festivals in Muskoka takes place in Bracebridge. Every January the Fire and Ice Festival takes over downtown with a host of fun activities. There’s ice skating, ice displays, fire pits, and more! The main attraction is the epic tubing hill that runs right down the main street!
So, plan your next winter escape to Bracebridge by booking a stay at the historic Inn at the Falls. The hotel is a short walk from downtown and has its very own restaurant.
Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ontario
Recommended by Kelly from Just One Passport
Niagara-on-the-Lake (NOTL) is a popular wine region in Ontario, in fact it’s the largest wine region in Canada. However, it’s not just wine that NOTL is known for! It’s a popular year round destination, but the twinkling lights and festive atmosphere make Winter the most magical time of the year to visit NOTL.
NOTL is one of the world’s largest producers of icewine which can be found in abundance during the Winter months. For the non-wine lover and for a unique experience, a visit to the Prince of Whales for high tea will provide a little insight into this long-time British culture.
JUST ONE TIP: January in NOTL is Icewine Festival time, turning the Niagara Region into one large winery fiesta
The outdoor enthusiast isn’t forgotten in NOTL. In fact she is celebrated. Whether you prefer to hike the trail along the Niagara River, skate outdoors, take a horse and buggy ride through the historic streets draped with Victoria architecture, wander the quaint shops along the main street, or snuggle up alongside an outdoor fire, you can’t help but to feel the magic that’s in the air when visiting NOTL.
For those folks who don’t want the Winter magic to end, there are plenty of quaint inns and bed and breakfasts to choose from if you want to extend your stay. For more Winter magic, Niagara Falls is a 20 minute drive down the street.
Read Next: 24 Hours in Niagara-on-the-Lake
Orillia, Ontario
Recommended by Erin from Pina Travels
Orillia is a large town that’s home to around 30,500 people. About a 1.5 hour drive north of Toronto, it’s nestled between Lake Couchiching and Lake Simcoe. Because Orillia is right on the edge of Muskoka, many weekenders know it as the spot to stop for a grocery run or quick lunch on their way up to Algonquin Park or Muskoka.
Orillia has plenty to offer besides a grocery run! It’s a charming town that has museums, restaurants, trendy shops, and plenty of outdoor spaces that are especially gorgeous in the winter.
On Orillia’s main street you’ll find lots of trendy boutiques selling everything from cottage decor to clothing. The Mariposa Market is an Orillia staple, having been on the main street for over 30 years. The Mariposa has a gift shop, bakery, market, and a scent shop. When you’re hungry, head to Studabakers for pub fare, and then drop by Couchiching Craft Brewery for a locally made beer.
If you’re in the mood for some history and culture, head to the Orillia Museum of Art & History, or visit the Leacock Museum. If you’d like to enjoy Orillia’s wintry nature, hike the Scout Valley Loop Trail or drive 10 minutes out of town to Bass Lake. This beautiful little lake is home to one of Ontario’s Provincial Parks. In the chilly months, the park becomes a winter wonderland. You can follow a short trail along the lake and explore the snowy forest.
Ottawa, Ontario
Recommended by Nina from Ottawa Things To Do
Ottawa is the capital of Canada, and a beautiful place to visit in winter. It’s home to some of the best festivals, activities, and attractions all year round. It also provides many fantastic tours if you don’t feel comfortable exploring Ottawa on your own.
Winterlude is one of Ottawa’s most popular annual events that celebrates Canada’s snow-filled season. With ice sculptures, ice skating on the Rideau Canal Skateway, and fun winter activities like snow tubing, it’s a great way to experience the city in a unique way.
Ottawa is also home to some amazing museums that are perfect for exploring during the cold months. From the National Gallery of Canada to the Canadian Museum of History, there are tons of places to explore and learn about Ottawa’s history.
And don’t forget to explore the shops and restaurants around town! From cozy cafes to unique boutiques, there’s something for everyone here. I recommend heading to Sparks Street for beautiful Christmas light displays after dark. They brighter lights in the parks and at Parliament get really busy, but the cute candy cane designs here are so lovely.
And don’t forget to head to Wesley Clover Parks for their drive-through Christmas lights display until mid-January! The proceeds go towards the children’s hospital so it’s a win-win to visit.
The Chateau Laurier Fairmont is definitely the best place to stay in Ottawa.
Perth, Ontario
Recommended by Nina from Nina Out And About
Perth, Ontario is a hidden gem that needs to be explored! It’s truly one of the cutest places in Ontario, and is especially worth a visit in winter.
Throughout November and December, the town is overrun by markets. From craft to Christmas, you’ll find plenty of opportunities to support local vendors and find great holiday gifts. In fact, their dog collars and bandanas are especially cute!
The town also has an exceptional range of winter activities, from snowshoeing to ice skating. The nearby trails are great for a snowshoeing adventure, and you can ever tramp alongside the Rideau River (which continues all the way to Kingston).
The free ice rinks around the town are lovely for an outdoor skate, especially the one in Code Park. It has pretty fairy lights up throughout the season.
Pack up your skates and head to Code’s Mill on the Park where the Perth Chocolate Works and BlackFly Grubhub for donuts will warm your soul.
Stay at the Perth Best Western to be near everything and get to have dinner in their glass solarium, where the twinkling lights indoors reflect onto the outside and make you feel like you’re in a dark night sky preserve!
Stratford, Ontario
Recommended by Stephanie from The World As I See It
Set along the Avon is Ontario’s very own Stratford! This magical Ontario town is a must to visit this winter! While many visit for the theatre festival, there are so many incredible things to do in Stratford all year long!
In the winter Stratford is transformed into a Hallmark movie playland of lights and festive activities! New for 2022, visitors will find one of the town’s Christmas Markets at the Tom Patterson Theatre. Inside you’ll find over 50 vendors selling a long list of goodies.
Another must-do for the holiday season is their famous Christmas Trail! The trail brings you to various fun shops around town where you can exchange coupons for unique items ranging from foodie treats to winter essentials! Plus, there are other tasty foodie trails to enjoy too! There’s a Bacon & Ale Trail and a Chocolate Trail!
Another incredible experience during winter is Lights on Stratford’s Winter Festival of Lights! Stratford comes alive with incredible and colourful light displays that range from massive structures to fun displays lighting up buildings throughout town.
If you’re looking to book a winter getaway to Stratford one of the best places to stay is the Edison Inn! Named after Thomas Edison, who once lived in the building that houses the Inn, it has a perfect downtown location. You are steps away from all the best restaurants and attractions in town.
Read Next: Small Town Charm With Guess Where Trips?
- Things To Do Solo In Grand Bend That Aren’t The Beach
- My Road Trip Home
- Off The Beaten Path Ontario Staycation Destinations
- Oxford County Cheese Trail
- 2 Day Solo Getaway To St. Jacobs
- One Day In Owen Sound
- 24 Hours In Historic Niagara-on-the-Lake
- Niagara Falls: A Winter Paradise
- An Epic 3 Day Itinerary In Canada’s South
- Small Town Charm Trail
- Lake Huron Lighthouse Trail: An Epic Ontario Road Trip
- Best Ontario Road Trip Destinations
- Explore Ontario Tourist Towns
- Explore Small Towns Ontario
- Explore Big Cities Ontario
- Magical Ontario Towns To Visit This Winter
- One Memorable Day In Elora
Enjoy the magic of winter in Ontario
BOOK YOUR STAY NOW!
Magical Ontario Towns to Visit This Winter: In Conclusion …
There are many more towns that can be added to the list of Winter Wonderland towns here in Ontario, these are a few of our favourites. What’s your favourite Winter wonderland town to visit.
Happy Winter 🙂 Stay Warm
Travel Solo Like a Pro!
AIRFARE:
♥ CheapOair and WayAway offer flights at a resonable rate. Let CheapOair or WayAway find the cheapest and best flight for your destination
HOTELS & ACCOMMODATION:
♥ I use Booking.com to book all of my accommodations, both domestically and internationally. When booking in the United States, I use Trivago US
ACTIVITIES:
♥ Get Your Guide and Viator are the absolute best sites to plan and book any adventures, activities, and all things fun
BIKE AND MOTORCYCLE RENTALS:
♥ BikesBooking.com will find the best prices for bicycles, motocyles, and scooter rentals any place in the world.
CAR RENTAL:
♥ Economy Bookings will provide rental prices worldwide, which making it a one stop shop for the most reasonable car rentals
AIRPORT TRANSFER AND PRIVATE TOURS:
♥ Kiwitaxi is who you want to contact for transportation from the airport or train station. Why not arrange for a PRIVATE CITY TOUR with Kiwitaxi at the same time.
CRUISES:
♥ Cruise Critic not only provides reviews and answers questions, it also offers great cruise deals. If your a cruise lover (like me), I highly recommend that you check it out!
TRAVEL INSURANCE:
♥ Travel insurance these times of natural disasters, travel interruption and baggage loss is no longer a place where you can cut costs. essentials. It has become an essential part of travel. Visitors Coverage will take care of all of your insurance needs.
PIN TO VISIT MAGICAL ONTARIO TOWNS THIS WINTER
Beautifull winter,but I am always ready for winter to be over lol.
Yes! Me too!!! We’ve been having the most amazing weather here in Canada this Spring!
this makes me miss winter all over again! (and i love your capture of the Prince of Wales hotel, i’m terrible at photographing architecture and that was such an excellent composition!)
Thanks. It’s such a beautiful building it’s tough to mess it up lol
All six of these Ontario towns look amazing in winter!
They do. There’s still a couple I have to get to in the winter
All of these towns are absolutely stunning! Love the photos, thank you for sharing!
Beautiful photos! I would love to visit Ontario in the winter some day.
It’s cold but beautiful. Hopefully you’ll make it one day
Wow some absolute gems! I miss the snow and would love to visit 😍
Beautiful pictures! Not one to love the cold but you make it sound lovely !
I’ve always wanted to visit Ottawa and seeing this list and that beautiful shot in the snow makes me want to even more! It truly looks magical! Thanks for sharing!
I hope you get to go sometime. It’s a beautiful city in all seasons
Winter in Canada looks beautiful and many locations to enjoy nature’s beauty. Thank you for sharing.
It’s cold, but Winter in Ontario is magical.
I love winter scenery, and even if it’s cold I love to sightseeing new places. I add your 6 Ontario towns to my bucket list as they are charming and offer fabulous winter scenery and activities. I would like to see Niagara-on-the-Lake and Stratford the most.
Good choices! Those are 2 of my favorite places to visit. They’re beautiful at any time of the year.
This post makes me want to go to the ice wine festival. Thank you for providing so many great winter ideas!
I want to go as well! I’ve never been and I’m seriously thinking about going this year
Canada is such a wonderful country and beautiful all year round. But, wow winter looks extremely beautiful, covered in snow. I’m not sure I will be able to cope with the weather.
Thankfully we are having a VERY mild Winter this year. It’s like Spring right now but I’m sure it won’t stay like that.
All of these towns look so charming. I have heard so much about Niagara on the Lake. I guess I must make a trip to Canada and start checking these out!
I highly recommend Niagara-on-the-Lake! There are so many things to do and a ton of wineries 🙂
These are all so beautiful and fantastic to see them dressed up for the winter season even if I’m a cold adverse person. Ontario does look scenic and probably better for me if I visit during the warmer months ahead.
There’s so much to do in the winter. But bundle up lol
I love visiting smaller towns in winter they just have so much charm. Orilla sounds right up my alley with a little bit of history and a lot of charm! Would love to visit the market there for some local snacks too.
The small Ontario towns are magical in the winter but are also beautiful in the summer….although quite hot
Orillia looks like a proper winter wonderland. And I love the sound of Bracebridge’s Fire & Ice festival. I’ve been to a couple of these places, Niagara-on-the-Lake in particular is a favorite, but so far never in winter. We’re heading to Ontario in February, maybe I’ll hope for some snow so I can really experience a Canadian winter
We got a bit of snow today, but we haven’t had a lot yet surprisingly
All the towns in Canada look magical during the winter. I’m not made for the cold tho, so I’d rather admire them from the comfort of your blog. I had to look up fat biking and can see why it is popular around Bracebridge.
Carolin | Solo Travel Story
hahaha. I’ve been here over 60 years and I still don’t like the cold, nor do you ever get use to it, but Winter is magical and it’s worth bundling up to get out to see.
Ontario is just full of cute little places you can visit during the winter! I’ve heard of some of these areas before but I have to say, Perth and Orillia sounded very interesting to me. I’ve never heard of those places before and considering how cute and packed full of activities Orillia is, and how Perth is such a hidden gem, I’d love to visit these two during the winter!
I haven’t been to Perth at any time of the year and I’ve only been to Orillia during the summer. I’d love to visit both places during the Winter! Orillia has so many fun winter activities. I believe they even have dog-sledding which is on my bucket list.
I’ve always wanted to visit Niagara-on-the-Lake for wine, but I would also love to visit around Christmas. It looks so magical! Thanks for sharing these magical winter destinations.
I just got back from Niagara on the Lake a few days ago and it’s magical! All the Christmas decorations are up which makes it even better than usual.
Ontario sounds like a great place to spend Winter, there’s so much to see and do and I love all those snowy landscapes! I love being outdoors in winter but it looks like there’s plenty to do indoors from museums to shopping streets and all the lovely warm food one can have there!!
You’re exactly right. There’s always things to do indoors if you need to warm up. Lots of cafes, beer tasting, wine tasting, museums, live theater. Tons of things.
The magic of winter certainly gives a different atmosphere to the landscape, whether urban or not. I don’t know Canada yet but reading these posts always makes me want to pack my bags and go there. No doubt winter doesn’t deter me, on the contrary, knowing that there are less crowds and that I can explore the places at will, is a plus factor
Canada is beautiful in the winter. You just have to bundle up. I hope you can visit us one day.
magical! So many outdoor adventures that are special in the winter!
There’s so much to do in the winter. But bundle up lol
Most of my visits to Ontario towns are done during spring to fall so I was curious to see if I have been to any on your list during the winter. To my surprise, I have! Bracebridge, Orillia, and I would add Barrie are great northern towns. Ottawa does it best, and Perth is pretty any time of year in the east. Nothing beats NOTL cozy wineries, my favourite time to go to wineries. Great list and winter inspiration for those in Ontario.
NOTL is my favourite Winter destination. It’s magical. I’ve only been to Orillia and Bracebridge in the Summer. I would love to visit during the Winter!
I love living in Vancouver, but I do miss winters in Ontario! I love the snow. Skating the Rideau Canal in winter is definitely on my list
I haven’t skated on the Rideau yet either. I’m in Kitchener so it’s quite a drive to Ottawa in the Winter. I don’t blame you for loving Vancouver. It’s my favourite city!
All these towns look so beautiful in the snow! Also, I’m very intrigued by icewine, as I’ve never heard of it before!
Icewine is a desert wine, however I find it very sweet, so I life to drink it with cheese. It is only produced in cold weather regions.
I’ve only been to Niagara-on-the-lake and Ottawa on this list and both were beautiful. Clearly lots more to see in this area and with the info you give here they will be great visits. Pity I didn’t get to see the others when I visited the area.
Well then Barry, you just might have to make a return visit during the Winter 🙂
Oh wow don’t these towns look beautiful in winter!! Would love to visit Ontario one day.
Winter wonderland. I hope you’re able to visit one day. Canada is gorgeous and the people are pretty awesome too 😎
The Icewine Festival in Niagara-on-the-lake sounds like so much fun! Ontario has so many great winter destinations, I’m thinking to add it to my bucket list.
I havent been to the ice wine festival but it’s on my bucket list
We do most of our Ontario travel in the non-cold months. Although we have been to Niagara on the Lake in all seasons. So it was good to get some suggestions for winter Ontario towns we should plan to visit. We visited Perth for the first time in the summer and were charmed. Looks like it is worth a return winter visit.
I haven’t been to Perth yet, but I’ve put it on my List. It sounds like a great place to visit!
So many great places to spend winter. Growing up in Australia by the beach it is a dream to have a white Christmas and some of these suggestions look like great places!
I’ve lived in Canada my entire life and until COVID hit, Winter was my least favourite time of the year. Now I absolutely LOVE it. It’s so magical!
Wow everything looks so beautiful covered in snow. Although winter isn’t my favourite season I can’t resist visiting snow covered places. Thanks for sharing.
Winter was never my favourite time of the year either until COVID hit, now I LOVE it! I admit that I’m not a fan of the cold, but it is so magical.
Great post! Niagara-on-the-Lake is magical in the winter.
I agree. I was there Monday and got home yesterday. My daughter and I both agreed that it was waaaay better in the Winter.