23 Off-The-Radar Things To Do In Ontario (2025)

Ontario is a megacity in every sense of it. However, it takes on a second form with its natural landmarks and unspoken beauty. When I was told I could start my morning in a global megacity, hearing a dozen languages on a single block, and end my day in a lakeside cabin surrounded by nothing but pines, it was hard to believe.

Yet, that was exactly what happened, and Ontario has made its way to the list of cities I will definitely revisit.

Here are a few interesting things to do in Ontario when you visit.

1. Ontario Mills

Ontario Mills is a major retail and entertainment destination, offering visitors a broad mix of shopping, dining, and leisure options under one roof. With more than 200 stores, including well-known outlets and designer brands, it appeals to both casual shoppers and those seeking specific deals. The center also features a 30-screen AMC Theatres megaplex, making it a convenient spot to combine a day of shopping with entertainment.

Among the popular tourist places, Ontario Mills stands out for its size, variety, and accessibility. In addition to shopping and movies, visitors can find a diverse range of restaurants, from quick bites to full-service dining. Its proximity to major highways and Ontario International Airport also makes it an easy stop for travelers passing through the region.

2. CN Tower

The CN Tower isn’t just Toronto’s most recognizable landmark, it’s the city’s entire sense of scale made visible. Rising 553 meters over the skyline, it was once the tallest freestanding structure in the world, built in the 1970s as a demonstration of Canadian engineering strength. Today, it’s a symbol of modern Toronto: multicultural, ambitious, and constantly looking upward.

The tower’s glass-floor observation deck is the classic experience, giving visitors a thrilling view straight down to the streets below, while the SkyPod lifts you even higher for sweeping panoramas of Lake Ontario and the distant Niagara region. At night, its LED lights shift with seasons, holidays, and local celebrations, turning the tower into a vertical beacon for the entire city.

3. Niagara Falls

The sheer scale and force of the Horseshoe Falls make Niagara Falls a natural spectacle that only a few places in the world can match. From the main observation points, visitors can experience the full impact of the falls’ thunderous descent, often with mist rising high into the air on sunny days.

Beyond viewing platforms, there are several ways to experience the falls more intimately. The Hornblower Niagara Cruises take visitors directly into the mist at the base of the Horseshoe Falls, offering a closer perspective. Journey Behind the Falls offers tunnels and platforms that allow you to see the power of the water from beneath. Nearby, Clifton Hill provides dining, entertainment, and family-friendly activities, making it easy to extend your stay.

For those interested in more Niagara Falls, the Butterfly Conservatory, the Niagara Parks Botanical Gardens, and the historic town of Niagara-on-the-Lake are short drives away. Each offers a quieter, more relaxed side of the region. With its combination of natural wonder and well-developed visitor amenities, Niagara Falls continues to be a destination that balances spectacle with accessibility for all types of travelers.

4. Parliament Hill

Visiting Parliament Hill is a defining part of any trip to Canada's capital city. The complex, located on a scenic bluff overlooking the Ottawa River, houses the offices of the Prime Minister, members of Parliament, and the ceremonial spaces for Canada's federal government. It stands as a symbol of the country’s political history and democratic foundations.

Beyond this, Parliament Hill offers a compelling mix of history, architecture, and ceremony. Free guided tours take guests through the Centre Block (currently under renovation, with tours focused on temporary spaces), where you can learn about Canada's parliamentary system, view historic chambers, and admire intricate Gothic Revival details. In summer months, the Changing of the Guard ceremony on the front lawn is a well-loved tradition, featuring precision drills and live military music.

Throughout the year, Parliament Hill hosts special events including light shows, Canada Day celebrations, and seasonal displays. Walking paths along the river and adjacent green spaces also make it a good area to explore beyond the immediate historic buildings.

5. Algonquin Provincial Park

Exploring Algonquin Provincial Park is a top choice for visitors in Ontario. Known for its rugged beauty, diverse ecosystems, and extensive network of canoe routes and hiking trails, the park offers a full immersion into Ontario’s natural landscape.

Visitors can choose from a wide variety of activities depending on the season. Spring and summer bring opportunities for backcountry canoeing, wildlife viewing, and hiking along trails like the Lookout Trail and Centennial Ridges Trail. Autumn transforms the park into a landscape of brilliant reds and oranges, attracting photographers and visitors keen to experience the foliage. In winter, snowshoeing and cross-country skiing open up quieter, more solitary views of frozen lakes and forested hills.

Algonquin is not only scenic but also rich in wildlife. Moose, beavers, black bears, and hundreds of bird species are commonly seen, particularly in early morning hours along water routes. Several visitor centers and interpretive trails provide historical and ecological insights into the park’s significance.

6. Stratford Festival

The Stratford Festival is one of North America's most respected theatre events, drawing actors, directors, and audiences from across the globe. What began as a way to revive the local economy has grown into an internationally recognized celebration of Shakespearean and contemporary drama. Each year, from spring to fall, Stratford’s multiple venues offer a diverse program of plays ranging from classics to new Canadian works.

As one of the premier tourist attractions, the festival is more than just performances. The entire town embraces the spirit of the arts. Visitors can stroll along the Avon River, explore boutique shops, and dine at locally-owned restaurants that serve the steady stream of festivalgoers. The relaxed pace and walkable downtown make it easy to enjoy a full day or weekend centered around live theater.

While Shakespeare remains the festival’s cornerstone, modern productions, musicals, and experimental works make it accessible to a wide audience. The quality of production, from set design to acting, consistently matches the standards of much larger cities.

7. Thousand Islands

The Thousand Islands offer some of the most scenic water landscapes in Ontario, with countless opportunities for exploration by boat, kayak, or scenic cruise. Departing from Gananoque, boat tours weave through this network of lush islands, many home to historic mansions, lighthouses, and hidden coves. The area is a paradise for photographers, nature lovers, and anyone who enjoys being close to the water.

When thinking about places to visit in Ontario, the Thousand Islands stand out for combining natural beauty with rich cultural history. Some tours include a visit to Boldt Castle, a historic American mansion, while others focus on wildlife and the ecology of the St. Lawrence River.

Beyond water-based activities, Gananoque itself offers local dining, small museums, and theater performances at the Thousand Islands Playhouse. The region also appeals to cyclists and hikers, with trails running parallel to the shoreline.

8. Science North

Science North is a leading science education centre offering an engaging, interactive experience that appeals to both adults and children. Exhibits cover a wide range of topics, including geology, environmental science, health, and innovation, making it a versatile destination for learning and exploration. Its unique architecture, featuring two snowflake-shaped buildings linked by a rock tunnel, reflects the dramatic natural landscape of Northern Ontario.

Permanent features include live animal exhibits, an IMAX theatre, and hands-on displays related to mining and space sciences. Science North also offers seasonal special exhibitions and a planetarium, ensuring that repeat visitors find something new each time.

The center's location beside Ramsey Lake provides additional recreational opportunities, with walking trails and seasonal water activities nearby. Science North effectively combines Northern Ontario’s mining heritage with modern, interactive exhibits, offering visitors a deeper understanding of the environment and technology.

9. Royal Ontario Museum (ROM)

The Royal Ontario Museum (ROM) is one of the largest museums in North America and an essential stop for anyone interested in art, culture, and history. The building itself is a striking blend of early 20th-century heritage architecture and modern design, with the dramatic Michael Lee-Chin Crystal forming a bold entrance.

Inside, galleries span natural history, world cultures, fine art, and archaeology. Visitors can explore exhibits ranging from ancient Egyptian artifacts to Indigenous Canadian art to dinosaur skeletons.

Temporary exhibitions ensure there’s always something new on display, while family-friendly programs and educational workshops enhance the experience for younger audiences. Located in the heart of Toronto, the museum is easily accessible by public transit and close to other cultural institutions like the Gardiner Museum and Queen’s Park.

10. Niagara-on-the-Lake

Often overshadowed by the waterfalls just down the road, Niagara-on-the-Lake offers a quieter, more refined alternative in the same region. This well-preserved town blends 19th-century charm with a thriving food and wine scene. Visitors walk down tree-lined streets, browse independent shops, and take in historic architecture that dates back more than two centuries.

Among the many attractions, this town stands out for its proximity to over 20 wineries, many of which offer tastings and vineyard tours. It’s also home to the Shaw Festival, one of North America’s most respected theatre companies. While some travelers come for a day trip, it’s worth staying longer to explore the countryside by bike or enjoy an evening by Lake Ontario.

If you're making a list of what to do in Niagara Falls, it’s worth extending your itinerary to include Niagara-on-the-Lake. The drive is short, but the atmosphere is completely different—calm, walkable, and steeped in heritage.

11. National Gallery of Canada

For visitors interested in Ottawa, the National Gallery of Canada offers a comprehensive overview of the country's artistic evolution. The building itself is striking—sharp lines, glass façades, and panoramic views of the Ottawa River. Inside, the collection spans centuries, with Canadian, Indigenous, and European works presented in a space that encourages quiet reflection.

The gallery’s layout balances permanent exhibits with rotating installations, offering both historical grounding and contemporary relevance. One of the highlights is the Indigenous and Inuit art section, which presents deeply rooted traditions alongside modern interpretations. Internationally recognized artists such as Van Gogh, Monet, and Picasso are also represented, giving the space global depth.

Visitors can also enjoy the adjacent outdoor sculpture garden and explore nearby cultural landmarks, including the ByWard Market and Notre-Dame Cathedral. The gallery is a short walk from Parliament Hill and is accessible by public transit.

12. Muskoka Lakes Region

Muskoka Lakes represent the classic Canadian summer experience. This region is known for its clear lakes, pine-covered shorelines, and a network of towns that manage to stay charming without becoming overly commercial. Visitors can stay in lakeside cottages, explore public beaches, or simply watch the sunset from a dock with a coffee or glass of wine in hand.

If you’re building a list of places to go for rest and recharge, Muskoka belongs at the top. It’s ideal for boating, paddling, fishing, and hiking, with trails and water routes that vary in difficulty and accessibility. Port Carling, Bracebridge, and Gravenhurst serve as local hubs offering small-town dining, local markets, and arts festivals throughout the warmer months.

13. Point Pelee National Park

Point Pelee National Park is a significant ecological site located along the north shore of Lake Erie. It's most famous for its role in seasonal bird migrations, drawing birdwatchers from around the world every spring and fall. But it offers far more than binoculars and checklists—it’s a peaceful, well-maintained park with trails, boardwalks, and a panoramic viewing platform that extends into the lake.

Point Pelee stands out for its quiet beauty and accessible natural features. It’s a relatively compact park, making it ideal for half-day visits or short overnight stays. Canoeing through the marsh, biking along the park roads, and walking the Tip Trail are all popular activities.

The park also holds cultural importance, with interpretive programs that explore Indigenous history and local ecology. During peak migration seasons, the visitor centre offers guides, workshops, and family-friendly educational experiences.

Point Pelee is an excellent choice. Its location also makes it easy to combine with visits to Windsor, Pelee Island, or other destinations along Lake Erie.

14. Kingston Penitentiary Tour

The Kingston Penitentiary is a rare example of a historic site that blends architecture, criminology, and real human stories into one guided experience. Once one of the oldest operating prisons in Canada, it now offers public tours that provide a firsthand look into the country’s evolving justice system.

These tours are led by former staff and correctional officers, adding depth to the narrative as you move through cell blocks, segregation units, and the once heavily guarded exercise yard. Photography is encouraged, but the most memorable moments often come from hearing about the daily lives of inmates and the real stories behind the stone walls.

It’s not a reenactment or a dramatized version of history—it’s an honest look at the institution's role in Canadian society over nearly two centuries. Combined with a walk around Kingston’s waterfront or a visit to nearby Fort Henry, it gives travelers a broader sense of the city’s strategic and social history.

15. Sleeping Giant Provincial Park

Sleeping Giant Provincial Park offers over 100 kilometers of hiking trails along the Sibley Peninsula, making it a top destination for outdoor travelers in Northern Ontario. Its varied terrain includes dense forest, cliffs, and panoramic lookouts, with the Top of the Giant trail being the most rewarding—and physically demanding—route.

The park is part of the boreal ecosystem, home to moose, foxes, and over 200 species of birds. From spring through fall, it's ideal for hiking and kayaking; in winter, snowshoeing and cross-country skiing take over. With camping options and rustic cabins available, it also works well for longer stays.

Unlike more crowded natural attractions in Southern Ontario, Sleeping Giant offers space to explore without interruption. It’s also deeply connected to Indigenous legends and local history, which are shared at the visitor center and interpretive areas throughout the park.

16. Art Gallery of Ontario (AGO)

The Art Gallery of Ontario (AGO) is one of Canada’s most important art institutions, housing more than 90,000 works across its permanent collection. From the Canadian Group of Seven to African, Indigenous, and European art, the gallery presents a wide lens on global creativity while maintaining a strong national identity.

The gallery is thoughtfully laid out, with temporary exhibitions rotating through themes like architecture, photography, and modern design. It's a strong pick for travelers exploring Toronto with a focus on culture, as it offers both depth and variety. The AGO is also known for its contemporary exhibitions that spotlight underrepresented voices, making it as relevant as it is historic.

Facilities include a café, reading lounges, and learning centers that regularly host artist talks and public events. Located in the Grange Park neighborhood, it's walking distance from other attractions like the University of Toronto, OCAD University, and the Gardiner Museum.

17. Whirlpool Aero Car

The Whirlpool Aero Car offers a unique view of the Niagara River that most visitors to the falls miss entirely. Suspended on six cables above the swirling Niagara Whirlpool, this antique cable car travels between two points on the Canadian side, offering unobstructed views of the water below and the surrounding gorge.

It’s a quiet, 10-minute ride that feels more contemplative than thrilling, though the height and movement over the whirlpool can definitely raise your heart rate. On clear days, you can see far up the river, and the contrasting colors of the water below, especially when the whirlpool is active, are striking.

While it’s often overshadowed by more modern installations, the Aero Car remains an enduring symbol of how Niagara blends engineering with natural spectacle. It's also included in some Niagara Falls attraction ticket bundles, so it’s smart to plan ahead if you want to maximize your visit without rushing.

18. Rideau Canal

The Rideau Canal winds its way through downtown Ottawa and into the countryside beyond, offering visitors a unique way to experience Canada's capital in every season. In summer, the canal comes alive with paddlers, cyclists, and walkers. Kayak and canoe rentals are widely available, making it easy to navigate stretches of the waterway lined by historic buildings, parks, and gardens.

When the temperature drops, the canal transforms into the world’s largest skating rink, stretching nearly eight kilometers. During the winter months, skating on the Rideau Canal is a signature experience, complete with warming huts and food vendors selling hot chocolate and BeaverTails.

The canal is more than a recreational space; it’s a historic engineering achievement, built in the early 19th century to secure a military supply route. Interpretive signs and guided tours provide context for its strategic importance.

19. Blue Mountain Resort

Blue Mountain Resort is often associated with skiing and snowboarding, but it has evolved into a true four-season destination. During winter, the resort's 43 trails and multiple terrain parks offer varied options for all skill levels. Come summer, the mountain transforms into a hub for hiking, mountain biking, zip-lining, and golf.

The Village at Blue Mountain offers shops, restaurants, and festivals throughout the year. Nearby Scandinave Spa is a popular choice for travelers looking to unwind after a day of outdoor activity, with its hot and cold baths set against a forest backdrop.

20. Royal Botanical Gardens in Burlington

The Royal Botanical Gardens (RBG) is Canada's largest botanical garden and one of the most significant in North America. Spanning across Burlington and Hamilton, it blends formal gardens, arboretums, and nature sanctuaries into a comprehensive outdoor experience. Visitors can explore themed gardens, seasonal floral displays, and an extensive network of trails leading through wetlands, forests, and fields.

RBG is especially known for its lilac, rose, and iris collections. The gardens are carefully curated to offer color and interest through all four seasons, with special events such as plant sales, photography workshops, and educational exhibits enriching the experience.

Beyond horticulture, the RBG is a center for ecological conservation and public education. Visitors can join guided walks, birdwatching sessions, or children’s programming focused on sustainability. The combination of curated garden spaces and preserved natural areas allows visitors to experience both beauty and biodiversity in one location. A trip to the RBG can easily complement visits to nearby attractions in Burlington and Hamilton, making it an ideal stop on a Southern Ontario itinerary.

21. Thousand Islands by Boat

A Thousand Islands boat tour is the most immersive way to experience this stunning archipelago straddling the Canadian and U.S. border. Departing from Gananoque, tours vary from quick scenic cruises to extended trips that navigate deeper into the island chain. On clear days, visitors can see dozens of islands—some no bigger than a backyard, others home to historic mansions and lighthouses.

The views are expansive and constantly shifting, offering glimpses of private cottages, remote beaches, and castle ruins. Some tours include commentary on the region’s history, geography, and smuggling lore from the Prohibition era.

22. Sudbury’s Dynamic Earth Science Centre

Dynamic Earth in Sudbury is a hands-on science center with a strong focus on geology, mining, and earth sciences. Operated by Science North, this facility dives deeper into Northern Ontario’s mining legacy while offering interactive exhibits that appeal to all ages. Visitors can descend into a simulated underground mine tour, explore real mining equipment, and see how minerals are used in everyday life.

The exhibits cover more than just mining—they highlight sustainable technologies, environmental restoration, and the broader science of the planet beneath our feet.

Outside, the grounds include walking trails and the famous Big Nickel, making it an easy place to spend a few hours. It’s also suitable for school groups, solo travelers, and families alike. As part of Sudbury’s broader science and education landscape, Dynamic Earth helps visitors understand the region’s geological identity and how it connects to Canada's natural and industrial history.

23. Toronto Islands

The Toronto Islands offer a quiet contrast to the city skyline just across the water. Located a short ferry ride from downtown, the islands consist of several connected land masses, including Centre Island, Ward’s Island, and Hanlan’s Point. Once there, visitors find walking trails, beaches, gardens, and open green spaces ideal for cycling or a slow-paced afternoon.

The islands provide a flexible, low-cost outing suitable for families, couples, or solo travelers. You can rent bikes or bring your own, visit the small amusement park in the summer, or just relax by the shoreline with a picnic. The islands are also home to a small but vibrant year-round community, with a handful of cafes and local art installations tucked between residences and parkland.

The ferry ride itself offers striking views of the downtown skyline, especially at sunset. Because of their proximity and variety, the islands are often recommended to first-time visitors. The experience involves a change of pace from the urban core.

It’s an easy half-day trip that doesn’t require a car or much planning, just comfortable shoes and a curiosity for exploring Toronto’s softer side.

Conclusion

Ontario offers more than just variety — it offers balance. Across cities, small towns, and vast protected landscapes, the province makes it easy to shift between cultural depth and natural quiet. You can move from a gallery in downtown Toronto to a paddle through Algonquin’s still waters within a few hours. And that’s what makes traveling here so appealing: everything feels connected, yet distinct.

This guide highlighted a range of experiences — from remote hikes to world-class museums, quiet lakeside towns to dynamic festivals — and yet, it only scratches the surface. That’s the nature of Ontario. There’s always more to see, more context to learn, and more corners that offer something unexpected.

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FAQ

1. What are the best months to visit Ontario?

The best time to visit Ontario depends on your interests. May through October offers the most flexibility for outdoor activities like hiking, canoeing, and exploring small towns. Fall (late September to mid-October) is especially popular for its foliage. Winter (December–March) is ideal for skiing, skating on the Rideau Canal, and visiting Ontario’s holiday markets. Cities like Toronto and Ottawa remain active year-round, while summer is the peak season for lakeside destinations like Muskoka and the Thousand Islands. If you prefer fewer crowds and lower prices, consider late spring or early fall when the weather is still pleasant but quieter.

2. How far is Niagara Falls from Toronto?

Niagara Falls is approximately 130 kilometers (about 80 miles) from downtown Toronto. By car, the drive typically takes 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on traffic. Regular train and bus services also operate between the two cities, with the train taking around two hours. Some day tours are available if you don’t want to plan transportation yourself. It’s a very manageable day trip, though many visitors choose to stay overnight to explore additional attractions like Niagara-on-the-Lake, local wineries, or the Whirlpool Aero Car. The route itself is scenic, passing through Ontario’s Golden Horseshoe region.

3. Is Ontario a good destination for families?

Yes, Ontario is one of the most family-friendly regions in Canada. Cities like Toronto, Ottawa, and Sudbury offer science centres, zoos, museums, and parks that cater to all ages. Natural areas like Algonquin Provincial Park or the Muskoka Lakes provide safe, accessible outdoor experiences like canoeing, wildlife spotting, and hiking. Many destinations, such as the Toronto Islands or Royal Botanical Gardens, are walkable and stroller-friendly. Seasonal events — from winter light festivals to summer fairs — offer engaging options year-round. Lodging, transit, and restaurants across the province are generally welcoming and well-equipped for families with young children.

4. What’s the best way to get around Ontario?

Getting around Ontario depends on your itinerary. In major cities like Toronto and Ottawa, public transit is reliable and efficient, with options like buses, subways, and light rail. For regional travel, renting a car offers the most flexibility, especially for exploring natural parks, smaller towns, and lake regions like Muskoka or Prince Edward County. Intercity train service (VIA Rail) connects Toronto, Ottawa, Kingston, and other urban hubs, while regional airports support travel to Northern Ontario. For travelers staying primarily in one city, you can rely on transit and taxis—but for rural or scenic routes, driving is best.

5. What are Ontario’s must-see natural attractions?

Ontario has a wide range of natural highlights. Niagara Falls is the most famous, but other sites are just as impactful. Algonquin Provincial Park offers iconic canoe routes and forested trails. Sleeping Giant Provincial Park near Thunder Bay delivers dramatic cliffside views over Lake Superior. Point Pelee National Park, Canada’s southernmost point, is known for bird migration and marshland trails. The Thousand Islands region offers unique boat tours among scenic islets and historic properties. If you’re visiting in autumn, the fall colors in Muskoka and along the Bruce Peninsula offer some of the best foliage views in Canada.

6. Is Ontario worth visiting in winter?

Yes, Ontario is very much a year-round destination, and winter offers experiences you won’t find elsewhere. The Rideau Canal in Ottawa becomes the world’s longest skating rink. Ski resorts like Blue Mountain and Horseshoe Valley offer snow sports just a few hours from Toronto. Cities remain lively, with museums, art galleries, indoor markets, and light festivals adding to the atmosphere. Winter is also prime time for spa visits, cozy small-town stays, and icewine tasting in Niagara. While driving conditions require more caution, winter in Ontario is scenic and calm — perfect for travelers who prefer quiet, uncrowded destinations.