Overview

Ontario is Canada’s most populous and diverse province, offering a mix of vibrant urban experiences, natural beauty, and cultural richness. From the cosmopolitan buzz of Toronto to the stunning wilderness of Algonquin Park, the historic charm of Ottawa, and the awe-inspiring power of Niagara Falls, Ontario invites travelers to explore world-class cities, pristine lakes, and wide-open landscapes — all in one province.

  • Capital: Toronto (Ontario’s provincial capital)
  • National Capital: Ottawa (Canada’s federal capital, located in eastern Ontario)
  • Major Cities: Toronto, Ottawa, Hamilton, London, Mississauga, Kingston, Windsor
  • Population: ~15.7 million (2024 est.)
  • Time Zones: Eastern Time (UTC−5) and Central Time (in the far west)
  • Climate: Varies — humid continental in most areas; cold winters, warm summers

Top Destinations in Ontario

Toronto

Canada’s largest and most multicultural city, known for its skyline, dining, sports, and iconic landmarks like the CN Tower.

Ottawa

The capital of Canada, offering Parliament Hill, national museums, historic neighborhoods, and scenic canals.

Niagara Falls

One of the world’s most famous waterfalls — a breathtaking sight by day or lit up at night, with boat tours, observation decks, and attractions.

Algonquin Provincial Park

A haven for canoeing, hiking, and wildlife spotting — especially popular for fall foliage.

Stratford & Niagara-on-the-Lake

Quaint towns with historic charm, wine regions, and renowned theatre festivals.

Must-See Attractions

  • CN Tower (Toronto) – Glass-floor views and the EdgeWalk experience
  • Niagara Falls – Horseshoe Falls, Maid of the Mist (or Hornblower) boat rides, and Clifton Hill fun
  • Parliament Hill (Ottawa) – Changing of the Guard, historic tours, and seasonal light shows
  • Royal Ontario Museum (ROM) – One of Canada’s premier cultural institutions
  • Thousand Islands – Scenic boat cruises along the St. Lawrence River

Things to Do

  • Canoe or kayak in one of Ontario’s 250,000+ lakes
  • Visit art galleries and museums in Toronto and Ottawa
  • Explore charming small towns like Elora, Bayfield, and Prince Edward County
  • Go wine tasting in Niagara, Norfolk County, or the Lake Erie North Shore
  • Enjoy winter sports like skiing, snowshoeing, and ice skating at outdoor rinks

Getting There & Around

Airports

  • Toronto Pearson (YYZ), Billy Bishop (YTZ), Ottawa Macdonald-Cartier (YOW), London (YXU), and regional airports

Transport

  • GO Transit and VIA Rail connect major cities and towns
  • Public transit in cities like Toronto (TTC), Ottawa (OC Transpo), and Hamilton
  • Car rental recommended for rural areas, cottage country, and national parks

Best Time to Visit

  • Summer (Jun–Aug): Great for festivals, lake adventures, patios, and national parks
  • Fall (Sep–Nov): Famous for vibrant autumn colors, especially in Algonquin and Muskoka
  • Winter (Dec–Feb): Snowy escapes, skating rinks, and cozy mountain towns
  • Spring (Mar–May): Blossoms, mild temperatures, and fewer crowds

Local Food & Culture

  • Cuisine: Ontario’s food reflects its multicultural population — from global street food to fine dining
  • Local specialties: Peameal bacon sandwiches, maple syrup, butter tarts, Niagara wine, and Ontario cheese
  • Events & Festivals:
    • Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF)
    • Winterlude (Ottawa)
    • Canadian National Exhibition (CNE)
    • Stratford Festival (theatre)
    • Niagara Wine Festivals

Souvenirs from Ontario

  • Maple syrup and maple candies
  • Indigenous art and crafts
  • Local wines and craft beer
  • Icewine from Niagara
  • Canadian-themed apparel (Mounties, moose, and maple leaves!)

Fun Facts

  • Ontario is home to over one-third of Canada’s population
  • The CN Tower was the world’s tallest freestanding structure until 2007
  • Ontario touches four of the five Great Lakes
  • The Rideau Canal in Ottawa becomes the world’s largest skating rink in winter
  • Ontario has over 330 provincial parks and more than 6,000 named lakes

Suggested Itineraries

3-Day City & Nature Combo

  • Day 1: Explore downtown Toronto — CN Tower, Distillery District, Kensington Market
  • Day 2: Day trip to Niagara Falls — boat ride + wine tasting
  • Day 3: Drive to Algonquin Park — scenic hike and lake views

5-Day Ontario Highlights

  • Day 1: Arrive in Ottawa — Parliament Hill, ByWard Market
  • Day 2: Museum hopping + Rideau Canal tour
  • Day 3: Drive to Prince Edward County — wineries + beaches
  • Day 4: Toronto — Chinatown, Harbourfront, AGO
  • Day 5: Day trip to Niagara Falls or relax in the city

Cities

  • Toronto