15 Best things to do in Ontario, Canada

Canada has many diverse, incredible provinces; we share the best things to do in Ontario, Canada so you don’t miss these awesome places to visit.

With cultural and natural wonders stretching across more than 900,000 square kilometers of the Canadian heartland, there’s something for everyone to enjoy in Canada’s most populous province. The license plates don’t lie: Ontario truly is yours to discover, stretching from the Great Lakes to the frigid Hudson Bay, from the Eastern Seaboard to the Great Plains.

Ontario contains six national parks, more than 300 provincial parks, the country’s largest city, and the English-speaking half of the nation’s capital. Here’s a list of four of the best tourist attractions one can find in Ontario.

Best Things to do in Ontario, Canada

1. Horseshoe Falls, Niagara-on-the-Lake

The seventh-largest waterfall in the world by flow rate, Niagara Falls is a must-see attraction in the region and one of the best things to do in Ontario.

A system of three waterfalls, Horseshoe is the largest of the bunch and the only one that spans the border between Canada and the United States (you can literally cross the border between Niagara Falls and the USA via a bridge).

Framed by the picturesque town of Niagara-on-the-Lake, you can wander the shady streets and quaint brick buildings after your trip to the falls is concluded, or pop into the United States to visit the American and Bridal Veil Falls.

From southern Ontario through western New York, close to the Buffalo Area, this area is included. Bridal Veil Falls, Horseshoe Falls, and American Falls make up Niagara Falls, which welcomes over 10 million tourists each year.

Also noteworthy: Niagara Falls is a doable 90 to 120-minute drive from Toronto if you’re planning to visit Toronto while in Ontario. There are a few bus and train options available to help you get between cities if you won’t be utilizing a car.

Numerous recreational pursuits can be enjoyed at and near the falls, such as ziplining, riding the Niagara SkyWheel, visiting the Skylon Tower, which has a rotating restaurant, and using the Whirlpool Aero Caro cable car.

There are a lot of highly regarded hotels in Niagara Falls, including the Best Western Plus Cairn Croft Hotel, the Sheraton Fallsview Hotel, and the Niagara Falls Marriott on the Fall. There are many of reputable hotels available if you want to stay at Niagara Falls for several days.

2. Great Lakes Coastline

Ontario contains nearly 8,000 kilometers of shoreline along four of the five Great Lakes: Superior, Huron, Erie, and the aptly-named Lake Ontario. Exploring these is a must on your Ontario bucket list.

Georgian Bay Islands, Bruce Peninsula, Point Pelee, and Pukaskwa National Parks. These make for romantic getaways in Ontario with plenty of Airbnb rentals available along the lake.

All surface area within the 295,200 square mile Great Lakes basin flows into the Great Lakes and makes one of the best things to do in Ontario. Parts of Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, Minnesota, New York, Ohio, and Pennsylvania are included in it.

You can hike or bike along the waterfronts, kayak, and fish out on the water or stay the night at any number of tent and RV sites within the park system. Make sure to keep your eyes peeled for wildlife like gray wolves, Canadian lynxes, caribou, and even the elusive moose.

The Great Lakes are renowned for their splendor and the abundance of resources found both inside and outside of them. With more than 3,000 miles of shoreline, the Great Lakes not only influence Michigan’s topography but also its economy, society, and ecology.

The combined lakes hold the biggest quantity of fresh water on Earth, 20% or one-fifth of all fresh water on the planet.

Through regulatory monitoring and activities that vary from the approval of shore protection structures and dredging operations to the issue of Great Lakes Bottomland Conveyances, EGLE safeguards, preserves, and restores the Great Lakes.

3. Catch a Game in Toronto’s Entertainment District

Whether you love them—or love to hate them—Toronto’s professional sports teams have some of the most rabid fans in the nation, spurred on by the city’s hard-charging media personalities. Whether it is Hockey, basketball or baseball, there are plenty of fun things to do in Ontario for sport lovers.

If the Leafs and Jays aren’t in town when you visit The Six, Toronto has 155 other neighborhoods to explore. Some of the best include are in Toronto’s Old Town and the Distillery Historic District, a grouping of six neighborhoods full of quaint shops and restaurants that will make you feel like you’ve traveled back in time. Elsewhere in the city, Chinatown and Kensington Market provide a great example of the diverse neighborhoods and cultures that make Toronto so unique among the other cities in Canada.

Things to do in Toronto

4. Ottawa

Split between Ontario and Quebec along the banks of the Ottawa River, Canada has a capital city like no other. During winter one can ice skate between the provinces as the river freezes solid, allowing a bustling—and picturesque—mode of travel. Ottawa’s Parliament Hill is another postcard-worthy destination, set high on a bluff atop the southern riverbanks.

Few sites are more instructive to visit than the capital of the country if you’re eager to learn about Canada’s history in depth.

History buffs should visit Ottawa’s many museums, which provide a wide variety of exhibits. The Canadian War Museum, the Canadian Science and Technology Museum, the National Gallery of Canada, and the Canadian Museum of History are all included in this.

5. Royal Ontario Museum, Toronto

A visit to the Royal Ontario Museum is one of the top cultural experiences and things to do in Ontario, especially for those interested in history, art, and science. Located in the heart of Toronto, this world-class museum houses over 18 million objects, ranging from dinosaur fossils to ancient artifacts and contemporary art. It’s one of the largest museums in North America and attracts more than a million visitors each year. 

Inside, you’ll find fascinating galleries covering everything from natural history and Indigenous cultures to global civilizations. Whether you’re traveling with kids or exploring solo, the museum offers interactive exhibits and immersive displays that make learning engaging. Its striking architecture—particularly the modern crystal extension—also makes it a must-see landmark in the city.

6. Relax at Wasaga Beach

Wasaga Beach Provincial Park is the perfect destination for those looking to unwind by the water and one of the more relaxing things to do in Ontario.

Known as the longest freshwater beach in the world, it offers miles of soft sand along the shores of Georgian Bay. It’s also one of Ontario’s most visited parks, drawing nearly 1.7 million visitors annually. 

The beach is ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and family-friendly activities, with shallow waters that warm up in summer. Beyond relaxing on the sand, visitors can enjoy cycling trails, water sports, and nearby restaurants. It’s a great spot for a laid-back day trip or a full summer getaway.

7. Explore the Royal Botanical Gardens

Nature lovers shouldn’t miss the Royal Botanical Gardens, one of Canada’s largest botanical gardens. Spanning multiple locations between Burlington and Hamilton, the gardens feature stunning landscapes, including rose gardens, arboretums, and scenic nature trails. 

The gardens are especially beautiful in spring and summer when flowers are in full bloom, but they offer year-round appeal with indoor conservatories and seasonal exhibits. Visitors can also enjoy birdwatching, hiking, and educational programs, making it a peaceful yet enriching things to do in Ontario for all ages.

8. Chase Waterfalls at Borer’s Falls

For a more off-the-beaten-path adventure, head to Borer’s Falls in Hamilton. This picturesque waterfall is tucked along scenic hiking trails and offers a tranquil escape into nature. Standing around 15 meters high, it’s a popular spot for photographers and a beautiful things to do in Ontario.

The surrounding area is part of a network of trails connected to the Niagara Escarpment, making it perfect for hiking enthusiasts. In winter, the frozen falls create a magical landscape, while in warmer months, the lush greenery adds to its charm.

9. Visit Riverview Park & Zoo

Families visiting Ontario will love a trip to Riverview Park & Zoo, a unique attraction in Peterborough and one of the more fun things to do in Ontario. This zoo is particularly special because it offers free admission, making it a budget-friendly option for travelers. It features over 40 species of animals and is set within a large park. 

In addition to animal exhibits, the park includes playgrounds, picnic areas, and even a miniature train ride. It’s an ideal destination for a relaxed day out, especially for families with younger children who want a mix of fun and education.

10. Canada’s Wonderland

Located within Canada’s Wonderland, Splash Works is one of the best water parks and exciting things to do in Ontario. Featuring over 16 water slides and Canada’s largest outdoor wave pool, it’s a must-visit during the summer months. 

This attraction is perfect for thrill-seekers and families alike, offering everything from relaxing lazy rivers to high-speed slides. Since entry is included with park admission, it’s easy to combine a day of roller coasters with a refreshing break at the water park.

After enjoying the many things to do in Toronto, head over to this exciting theme park for a day of thrills!

11. Discover Manitoulin Island

Manitoulin Island is a hidden gem and the largest freshwater island in the world; it’s one of the truly stunning things to do in Ontario. Known for its natural beauty and cultural significance, it offers a peaceful escape from busy city life. Visitors can explore scenic hiking trails, crystal-clear lakes, and charming small towns. 

The island is also home to several Indigenous communities, where travelers can learn about local traditions and heritage. From kayaking and cycling to attending cultural events, Manitoulin Island offers a unique and meaningful travel experience.

12. Explore Killarney Provincial Park

Outdoor enthusiasts will love Killarney Provincial Park, known for its dramatic landscapes and pristine wilderness. The park features rugged white quartzite ridges, turquoise lakes, and scenic hiking trails, including routes that lead to breathtaking viewpoints. 

It’s a fantastic destination for canoeing, camping, and stargazing, thanks to its remote location and minimal light pollution. Whether you’re hiking to the top of Silver Peak or paddling through calm waters, Killarney offers some of the most stunning natural scenery in Ontario.

13. Experience Niagara-on-the-Lake

Niagara-on-the-Lake is one of Ontario’s most charming destinations, known for its historic streets, boutique shops, and wineries. Located near Niagara Falls, it offers a quieter, more relaxed atmosphere with plenty of character. 

The region is famous for its wine production, particularly ice wine, and visitors can enjoy tastings at local vineyards. With its picturesque setting and cultural attractions, Niagara-on-the-Lake is perfect for a romantic getaway or a leisurely day trip.

14. Take in the Views from the CN Tower

No trip to Ontario is complete without visiting the iconic CN Tower, one of the most recognizable landmarks in Canada. Standing tall over Toronto’s skyline, it offers breathtaking panoramic views across the city and even out to Lake Ontario on a clear day. Visitors can head up to the observation decks, including the famous glass floor, which provides a thrilling perspective straight down to the streets below.

For those looking for an extra adrenaline rush, the EdgeWalk experience lets you step outside and walk around the tower’s outer ledge, secured by a harness. Inside, you’ll also find a revolving restaurant, making it a fantastic spot for a memorable meal with a view. Whether you’re visiting during the day or at sunset, the CN Tower delivers an unforgettable experience.

15. Explore the Beauty of Algonquin Provincial Park

Algonquin Provincial Park is one of Ontario’s most famous outdoor destinations, offering a true escape into the Canadian wilderness. Known for its dense forests, sparkling lakes, and abundant wildlife, the park is a paradise for nature lovers. It’s particularly popular in autumn when the fall foliage transforms the landscape into vibrant shades of red, orange, and gold.

Visitors can enjoy a wide range of activities, including canoeing, hiking, and camping. The park is also one of the best places in Ontario to spot wildlife such as moose, deer, and beavers in their natural habitat. Whether you’re planning a day trip or a multi-day adventure, Algonquin Provincial Park provides a peaceful and scenic retreat away from city life.

Best Places to Visit in Canada

Best Things to Do in Ontario, Canada FAQ