Lonely PlanetAug 21, 2026
The 11 best places to visit in Ontario
Culture-rich cities, lakeside wineries, backcountry wilderness and more.
17 things in this story
- Bruce Peninsula National ParkNature reserveCliff hiking and dips in turquoise waters.
- Fathom Five National Marine ParkNature reserveSnorkel above sunken ships.
- Cyprus LakeSightModerate hike to Indian Head Cove and the Grotto.
- Lion's HeadSightQuieter hiking alternative with spectacular cliffside views.
- Halfway Log DumpSightRock-lined beach and access to the Bruce Trail.
- Bruce TrailTrailChallenging section near Halfway Log Dump.
- Indian Head CoveSight
- The GrottoSight
- Elsewhere
- Rideau CanalNature reserveOttawa, CanadaWorld's largest skating rink in winter.
- Parliament HillParkOttawa, CanadaSuits history buffs.
- Canadian Museum of NatureMuseumOttawa, CanadaThe museum's exhibitions and public programs are housed in the Victoria Memorial Museum Building, a 18,910-square-metre…
- St Lawrence RiverSightOntario, CanadaIsland-hopping along the river.
- Tobermory Brewing CompanyRestaurantTobermory, CanadaCraft brewery with pub fare and waterfront view.
- Canadian Tulip FestivalFestivalOttawa, CanadaOver a million tulips bloom across the city.
- National Gallery of CanadaGalleryOttawa, CanadaThe museum's building takes up 46,621 square metres (501,820 sq ft), with 12,400 square metres (133,000 sq ft) of space…
- Canadian Museum of HistoryMuseumOttawa, CanadaThe purpose of the museum is to promote the heritage of Canada, as well as support related research.
- Canadian War MuseumMuseumOttawa, CanadaThe museum serves as both an educational facility on Canadian military history and a place of remembrance.