When it comes to Ontario, there are the basic ‘must-see’ spots such as Niagara Falls. But there’s SO much more to do!
Riddled with an abundance of stops, like Quetico Provincial Park, The Sleepy Owl, the canyons of Thunder Bay, and more, the list can feel endless when deciding where to go and stay on your trip.
Adorned with history, culture, natural landscapes, and a vibrant social scene, keep your list open with some of these top spots.
Elgin and Winter Garden Theatre –Toronto, CA
Built in 1913, the Winter Garden Theatre showcases a cascade of flora (and real dried leaves), which cloaks the ceiling and hangs overhead in a cascade of garden-enchantment.
With the walls adorned by nature paintings, this site is a work of true brilliance that you cannot pass up.
Restored from years of degradation and abandonment, it is the world’s only example of a double-decker Edwardian theater still in operation. It is even still running shows, like the Wizard of Oz, all throughout this winter season.
It’s historic relevance as a once-Vaudeville theatre has taken it from being the highlight of the town to being abandoned for almost 53 years. Until its recent restoration by the Heritage Trust, hired designers and volunteers alike used the 29-million-dollar budget to renovate and restore the structure back to its original standing.
If a show isn’t in your budget, you can still stop by and check out a tour on Mondays or Saturdays, which are offered as a 90-minute paid guided tour, year-round.
Otherwise the building is open for free during the Doors Open festival in May.
Parliament Hill (The Hill) –Ottawa, CA
Not only is the capitol building(otherwise known as Parliament Hill)a stunning sight, but the entire city is adorned with beautiful stone architecture and bridges as if from a Medieval vision, making it a sight worth not only seeing, but experiencing.
Running throughout the city of Ottawa, the Rideau Canal will take you through the most scenic and historic waterway in North America.
From most who have experienced it, riding in one of the eco-friendly electric boat tours provides the most absolute ambiance that the waterway has to offer.
But if you happen to be strolling by in May, you’ll be around to witness the Canadian Tulip Festival, which also lines the canal.
Royal Ontario Museum –Toronto, CA
Not only does the Michael Lee-Chin Crystal create an astounding view from the outside but the Royal Ontario Museum also holds some amazing natural history, science and cultural exhibits from all over the world, including over 6 million objects and specimens.
The mix of old and new will have you captured at first glance.
With the Willner Madge Gallery, you can visit specimens that explore the “Dawn of Life” which isa biological representation of Earth’s magnificent history. If you’re looking for something a little more contemporary, they definitely have you covered for that too.
The Royal Ontario Museum is truly the country’s leading cultural and social destination.
Hike the Bruce Trail
If nature is on your list, you must check out the longest trail in Ontario, the Bruce Trail. Stretching from the Niagara Region all the way up to Tobermory, the 264km of pure enjoyment are waiting for you to stop by one of its incredible lookouts.
One of my personal favourites is the Overhanging Point near Tobermory. This feature will take you through fossilized limestone and dolomites decorated with millions of ancient corals.
Along the hike, you will be able to experience the Grotto, which is a cave scooped out from the cliffs due to powerful waves crashing against it over hundreds of thousands of years.
At the end of the hike, you will be able to experience the breathtaking views of Overhanging Point, a spot that looks out towards the bay.
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