The Ultimate Ontario Summer Bucket List
Have you got a day off? Are you finishing camp and unsure where you should travel?
Don’t worry! There’s an endless list of things to do in this gigantic region of Canada and it’s difficult to know where to begin. That’s why we’ve put together this list of places you need to adventure to and filled it with action-packed activity suggestions to ensure you’ve got the most from your incredible summer in Ontario.
Explore the Thousand Islands
Located in southeastern Ontario almost at the border with the U.S. this sightseers dreamland comprised of more than 1,800 islands, is a hub for adventure and its not difficult to see why. Whether you want to live the adventure or simply relax and enjoy the views here are our suggestions for the best ways to explore;
- A trip up the Thousand Islands tower to get the perfect panoramic snap
- A guided kayak tour around the river and islands (no experience necessary!)
- Relax on one of many available boat tours
- Or for a first-class view hop on a helicopter ride
- Explore the castles
Experience Toronto from above
At over 550 metres tall the CN Tower is one of Canada's most famous attractions. You can't go to Toronto without experiencing this. A standard general admission ticket gives you access to 2 observation levels at 346 metres high, where you can walk on the Glass Floor above the city and onto the outdoor SkyTerrace for around £27. Plus there’s even more to do if you fancy it!
- Dine in 360 Restaurant - a bird’s eye view whilst you eat
- For the thrillseekers, EdgeWalk ‘hand-free’ around the outside of the main tower
If you want a 48-hour itinerary for Toronto, then check out this city blog!
Go on a Waterfall Adventure in Hamilton
Just one hour from Toronto is Hamilton. Known as ‘The Waterfall Capital of the World’ it’s no surprise that there are over 100 to visit. Although there’s probably no time to visit them all, here are the top 5 we recommend hiking around for some spectacular scenery to show off to your friends back home;
Be blown away by the Niagara Falls
Niagara Falls is just a stones throw away from Hamilton so whilst you’re in the mood for waterfalls, Niagara is something you NEED to see. Day trips can come in quite pricey but the jaw-dropping effect of the falls can be experienced in several different adrenaline junkie ways…
While visiting Niagara Falls, don't miss the chance to explore the historic town of Niagara-on-the-Lake, commonly referred to as NOTL by locals. Just a short 20-kilometer drive away, NOTL offers a delightful change of pace.
This quaint town boasts not only a rich history but also plenty of opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts. Hike or bike along the scenic Niagara Escarpment, a UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve.
And of course, no trip to Niagara is complete without indulging in its world-famous wineries. Niagara-on-the-Lake sits at the heart of this renowned wine region. With over 100 wineries in the area, you can embark on tours, explore vineyards, and taste delicious local vintages.
Camp in one of Ontario's Provincial Parks
With 72 parks dotted around Ontario, it’s almost guaranteed they’ll be one close to your camp. All boasting something special, checking out a park on a day off will be perfect for clearing your head and taking a breather from the hustle and bustle of camp. If you’ve got a couple of days an overnight camping trip in one of these dramatic landscapes will get you to experience the wilderness and Canadian wildlife first-hand.
Here are a few parks we recommend;
Swim in the Bruce Peninsula Grotto
We’ve probably saved the best till last, hidden on the Bruce Peninsula’s Georgian Bay shoreline are scenic limestone cliffs, and dramatic caves with pools of deep, cold, blue water. If we weren’t telling you it was there you’d probably miss it all together. First of all hike to the picturesque Indian Head Cove and then you’ll need to clamber into this secret wonderland Grotto which can be quite challenging. You’ll either have to crawl down a small rocky tunnel known as ‘the chimney’ or scale a 12-metre-tall open cliff face, but that’s all part of the adventure right?
While you're in the area, don't miss the charming town of Tobermory. Steeped in history, it was, named after its Scottish counterpart. The town is filled with colourful buildings lining the harbour, some dating back to the 18th century when the town was established as a fishing port. Explore the quaint shops and restaurants, and savour the fresh seafood caught locally.
The town also has plenty of outdoor activities to do! Relax and soak up the sun at one of the many stunning beaches with crystal-clear blue waters. Explore the underwater world by taking a boat tour or scuba dive to see shipwrecks dating back to the 1800s. Georgian Bay itself is a sight to behold, and kayaking or canoeing is a fantastic way to experience its beauty up close.
All you’ve got to do now is tick them off! For more things to do in this province, make sure to check out our beginner's guide to Ontario and 48 hours in Ottawa.
