There are many ways to spend a weekend in Ontario as within this mammoth province are white sandy beaches, charming small towns, thousands of lakes, and backcountry adventures aplenty.
If you’re visiting Ontario this summer, be that for a long weekend or an extended break, here are our recommendations for making the most of your time here.
Choose your accommodation
You will need somewhere to lay your head during your time in Ontario but don’t assume you need to stay in a hotel. If you’re staying in one of the larger cities, such as Toronto or Ottawa, you could stay in a hostel if you’re trying to save money or an Airbnb if you would like a few home comforts.
If you’re visiting an area of great scenic beauty, such as Muskoka, we recommend one of these luxury cottage rentals in Muskoka which will give you incredible access to the breathtaking Ontario countryside.
And if you don’t mind doing away with your usual home comforts, you could pitch your own tent at one of Ontario’s provincial parks. This is by far the cheapest option for a weekend away and is ideal if you’re looking for a romantic night under the stars!
Choose a place to visit
There are many places to visit in Ontario so consider what you want to experience during your break away.
If you’re looking to get away from the hustle and bustle of city life, then we recommend Algonquin Provincial Park, which can be your perfect escape into nature with its 4000 square miles of forests, rivers, lakes, and rolling hills.
Niagara-on-the-Lake can also be recommended. This historic Victorian town is one of the prettiest in all of Ontario, with its scenic waterfront area, lovely tree-lined streets, flower gardens, and parks.
If you do prefer city life, then a stay in Toronto, Ontario’s capital is a must as there are some great museums, art galleries, and shopping centres to visit, as well as the Centerville Amusement Park if you have little ones with you and the glorious Niagara Falls which is many people’s number one reason for visiting the city.
We have only scratched the surface here so check out our article on Ontario weekend trips you must do this summer.
Do something you have never done before
Sure, you could spend all of your time in Ontario walking around the big cities or hiking around the region’s nature trails, but if you have an adventurous spirit, you should do something you have never done before.
You could go whitewater rafting on the Madawaska River, test your nerves with a vertigo-inducing outdoor walk on the CN Tower, or go treetop trekking at one of Ontario’s forest adventure parks, as just a few examples.
Plan your bucket list before you leave your home and be sure to add new experiences that go against your norm.
These are just some of the ways to make the most of your weekend in Ontario but if you have any suggestions of your own, please leave us a comment below with your ideas.
