9 Most Laid-Back Towns in Ontario

Ontario is Canada’s most famed and populous province, home to Ottawa, the capital, and other big cities like Toronto, London, and Kingston. These cities naturally get the most attention from tourists, but there is more to Ontario than its big and acclaimed cities. Thankfully, the region is filled with charming, laid-back small towns that offer a respite from the city hustle and bustle while boasting a significant share of natural and historic attractions. From the magnificent Elora with its picturesque gorge to the adorable and chilled-out Perth by the banks of the Tay River, uncover the nine most laid-back towns in Ontario to explore.

Bancroft

Bancroft, a cozy town on the York River in Hastings County, has a welcoming and relaxed ambiance perfect for an escape from the chaos of cities. Here, visitors can start an unforgettable adventure by visiting Eagle’s Nest Lookout, positioned atop a rock’s face and offering breathtaking views of York River, Bancroft Airport, and the town's northern district. Next, unwind and recreate at Millennium Park, featuring views of the York River, picnic tables, walking trails, a scenic bridge, and manicured lawns.

Also, capture the charming views of High Falls on York River at Bird’s Creek before visiting Bancroft North Hastings Heritage Museum for an eye-opening ride through the area’s history. Afterward, feel the town’s artsy vibes at A Place For The Arts or the Arts Gallery of Bancroft.

Mattawa

Mattawa is a picturesque town at the confluence of Ottawa and Mattawa rivers. This serene town of just below 2,000 residents is the perfect destination to relax, unwind on the laps of nature and lose track of time. First off, the Mattawa and Ottawa Rivers are recreational spots for boating, paddling, and fishing. Also, Samuel de Champlain Provincial Park occupies both flanks of the Mattawa River and sets the stage for summer camping, picnicking, boating, swimming, canoeing, and hiking.

In addition, the park's visitor center is home to the Voyageur Heritage Center, featuring interactive exhibits that detail the river's pivotal role in the fur trade era. History buffs can explore the Mattawa Museum to glimpse at local history, including that of native tribes, through various programs and exhibits. Don’t forget to enjoy delicious meals at the family-friendly Myrt’s Restaurant.

Perth

Perth is a breathtaking small town on the Tay River which splits into two channels in the downtown area. Visit this town and stop by the Perth Museum to admire the town’s glorious past through relics, period furnishings, and memorabilia. Dine at Bistro 54 and catch a show at the Studio Theatre Perth. Relax, picnic, and play at Stewart Park downtown, where nature lives freely, with the gorgeous Tay River flowing through it and guarded by lush green trees.

Later, visit the 257-hectare Perth Wildlife Conservation Area on the Tay River Marsh to see various plant and animal species, such as wild turkey, rabbits, bluebirds, and deer, while hiking its 3 kilometer trail. Meanwhile, the Tay River Pathway is also worth exploring, especially for nature enthusiasts, as it winds through a beautiful garden.

Niagara-on-the-Lake

Niagara-on-the-lake is one of the most beautiful towns in Ontario, sitting on the peninsula by the mouth of the Niagara River on the southern shores of Lake Ontario. In addition to its laid-back vibes, this town has a handful of attractions to satisfy everyone. The Brock’s Monument is just one of the attractions worth visiting in town. It pays tribute to a Canadian war hero and is within Queenston Heights Park, which is also a great spot for picnics.

Visitors can also stroll along Queen's Royal Park to enjoy fresh air, charming views of Lake Ontario, picnic tables, and small beaches. Also, a short drive along the Niagara Parkway unveils the mother of all attractions, the majestic Niagara Falls, thundering down the escarpment and providing a visual treat for every tourist. Back in town, visitors can enjoy thrilling shows and performances at the Shaw Festival Theatre and dine at Peller Estates Winery and Restaurant, which offers farm-to-table meals.

South River

South River is not just a cozy and serene place to lay low and bask in solitude but a destination for adventures and outdoor activities. The town is close to Algonquin Provincial Park, the oldest provincial park in Canada, with access to Round Lake for canoeing. Visitors can explore the park’s many canoe routes and rivers on a boat while fishing and spotting various species of wild and plant life.

Mikisew Provincial Park is another nearby outdoor hot spot by the banks of Eagle Lake worth visiting. The park features hiking trails through woods, wetlands, and ponds, while boating and paddling activities are offered on the lake. For hikers, explore the Old Dog Trail from this park to behold adorable views of wildflowers, maple, and ash trees, or hike the Around Eagle Lake Loop. Afterward, eat at Sheri’s Diner.

Killarney

Killarney is a quaint community of just below 400 people, making it a destination of serenity, peace, and natural splendor. The small townsite lies on the Northern Shore of Georgian Bay and is best known for the Killarney Provincial Park, which occupies most of its landmass. This park is home to George Lake, bordering the limestone cliffs of the La Cloche range. Visitors can boat or canoe on the lake and explore the park’s breathtaking natural scenery via hiking trails while spotting wildlife such as lynx, bobcats, deer, and black bears, including diverse bird species.

In addition, the park has a sky observatory for studying the night sky, and it is the first in any Ontario Provincial Park. The Killarney East Lighthouse and Killarney Northwest Light, both built in 1866, are historic draws for history buffs. When it’s time to wine and dine, Herbert Fisheries is always a great stop.

Picton

Picton is a lovely town on the Southwestern end of Picton Bay, a part of the northern shoreline of Lake Ontario, where time seems to move slowly. This beautiful town beckons tourists seeking an escape from the bustle of life with its long list of unforgettable things to do and see. To begin, the Regent Theatre on Main Street is an amazing spot to relax and watch movies, while The Lighthouse Restaurant offers fine dining with harbor views.

History enthusiasts are always welcome to the Macaulay Heritage Park to witness permanent and rotating exhibits. Meanwhile, adventurers can explore the great outdoors at Sandbank Provincial Park, which boasts the world’s largest dune system and freshwater sand bar on a bay. In this park, visitors will be delighted to play on three beaches, watch birds, hike numerous trails, boat, canoe, swim, and kayak on the water.

Huntsville

Huntsville is a naturally alluring town situated on the hilly landscapes of the rocky Canadian Shield region and fenced by many lakes. Visitors to this town can enjoy this enchanting scenery of rolling hills by strolling through the downtown or hopping the lakes to unwind, boat, hike around, swim, and enjoy the beauty of nature undisturbed. Some top lakes in the area include Fairy Lake, Mary Lake, and Lake Vernon. Meanwhile, the Muskoka River courses through the downtown, presenting another stage for exciting water sports. Additionally, Arrowhead Provincial Park is around the town’s borders, featuring a lake, small beaches, a waterfall, and hiking trails to explore.

Back in town, visitors can walk down the paths of history at Muskoka Heritage Place, which has a museum with a pioneer village, heritage buildings, and an old steam train. When it's time to eat, always remember that The Mill on Main is one of the town’s finest restaurants, offering relaxation and tantalizing cuisines in an artsy setting.

Elora

Elora is a small, decent town in Wellington County, with a charming and slow-paced atmosphere that any tourist will love. Visit this town with a good camera and head straight to Elora Gorge, the town's most prominent attraction, featuring limestone cliffs towering up to 72 feet while the beautiful Grand River flows beneath. The gorge is a great spot for kayaking, tubing, canoeing, camping, and picnicking. Don’t forget to capture the scenic visuals of the 25-foot-tall Elora Gorge Falls further upstream, or head to the eastern end of the town to swim and picnic in the Elora Quarry Conservation Area.

Bikers can explore the 47-kilometer Elora Cataract Trailway, which runs through spectacular greenery and leads to Caledon town. Elsewhere in town, lovers of history can peek at the area’s past through artifacts and exhibits at the Wellington County Museum. Before leaving, check out inspiring artworks and sculptures at the Elora Arts Center and enjoy French cuisine at The Evelyn.

Find blissful respite from the hustle and bustle of the big cities in these small, laid-back towns of Ontario, where even the air is satisfying. Explore unsullied nature like a researcher, step into the past at preserved historical attractions, savor a variety of local and international dishes, interact with friendly locals, and observe time move slowly. From adventure buffs to calm and laid-back travelers, there is always something to do or see in these towns, and the memories are always unforgettable.