Visit Ontario: 10 Must-See Places

Do you know Ontario? Nestled between the Great Lakes region, Hudson Bay, and the provinces of Quebec and Manitoba, this Canadian province as large as France and Spain combined boasts an exceptional diversity.

From Toronto to Algonquin Provincial Park, explore this vast Canadian province on a road trip in Canada to discover vibrant cities and incredible nature.

So if you’re looking for ideas, here’s how to visit Ontario in 10 must-see places!

Map of the 10 Must-See Places to Visit in Ontario

1. Niagara Falls

You can’t discover Ontario’s 10 must-see places without visiting Niagara Falls.

Regarded by many as the 8th wonder of the world, this 50m high waterfall impresses with the power of its flow.

The Skylon Tower is one of the best places to admire them. You can also enjoy the 1.6 km walk from Rainbow Bridge to Table Rock.

Then, take the elevator down into a tunnel to the base of the falls. If you don’t mind getting wet, don’t hesitate to book a cruise at the foot of Niagara Falls either.

💙 Authentik’s Favorite: Helicopter Flight over the Falls

Here at Authentik Canada, we can only recommend this truly magical experience. In just a few minutes of flight, you’ll see the falls from their most spectacular angle: from the sky!

The departure is directly from Niagara Falls and you’ll fly over the Niagara River before skirting the falls. Rainbows in the mist will leave you with unforgettable memories.

Our practical tips:

• Book in advance during high season
• The heliport is within walking distance from downtown
• On clear days, you can spot Toronto in the distance!

It’s more expensive than other activities, but honestly, it’s worth every dollar spent.

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2. Toronto

For shopping, head to the Eaton Center and then visit the Distillery District. This former distillery, now transformed into a trendy pedestrian district, is a true Toronto institution.

Don’t forget Casa Loma, this magnificent 98-room mansion that will transport you to Victorian elegance. Photography lovers will enjoy many spots like the Scarborough Bluffs or the colorful alleyways of Kensington Market.

💙 Authentik’s Favorite: The Royal Ontario Museum

This fabulous and vast museum, more commonly called the ROM (Royal Ontario Museum), is the largest in Canada. It has nearly 6 million objects, 40 galleries and exhibition halls on nature, world cultures, and art through different eras. The museum also offers lectures, events, and temporary exhibitions. There is even an area reserved for children!

The building itself is worth a visit with its spectacular modern architecture contrasting with the historical façade.

Our practical tips:

• Pick up a map on arrival to plan your visit: the museum has no fewer than 5 floors!
• Start with the galleries that interest you most, as it is impossible to see everything in a single visit
• Take advantage of the free guided tours to discover the most remarkable pieces

The ROM is located in the heart of Toronto, easily accessible from downtown. It’s the perfect cultural stop between neighborhood visits!

3. Thousand Islands National Park

Take advantage of your trip to Canada to visit Thousand Islands National Park located on the St. Lawrence River, at the exit of Lake Ontario. These islets scattered over sparkling waters look just like a postcard.

Created in 1904, this national park protects 21 official islands as well as many smaller islets, but the region actually contains 1,865 islands in total! Made up of granite islands dotted between the Canadian Shield and the Adirondack Mountains, the park offers exceptional biodiversity in a unique ecosystem.

You can explore hiking trails that cross the various islands, each with its own flora and fauna. The park also offers island camping areas for a fully immersive experience in this preserved nature. Kayak and canoe enthusiasts will particularly enjoy the calm river waters for paddling from island to island.

💙 Authentik’s Favorite: Thousand Islands Cruise

Join a cruise and see some of the attractions in the Thousand Islands region, including romantic castles and the world’s smallest international bridge on Zavikon Island. Also, have fun finding the mother-in-law island! Bet you’ll quickly understand why it got that nickname...

Our practical tips:

• As your starting point, we suggest the small ports of Rockport or Gananoque, rather than Kingston where the boats are larger and more crowded
• Book your cruise in advance during the high season (July-August)
• Bring a windbreaker, as it can be cool on the water even in good weather

This experience will immerse you in the fascinating history of these islands while offering absolutely magical views of the St. Lawrence River.

4. Ottawa

Located at the crossroads of three picturesque rivers, Ottawa is considered one of the most beautiful capitals in the world. It’s a must-see on a Canadian tour! Its famous Rideau Canal, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, turns into the largest natural skating rink in the world during winter.

Watch the changing of the guard on Parliament Hill and then go for a cruise on the Ottawa River. Grab a coffee on Sparks Street before visiting the neo-Gothic Notre-Dame Cathedral.

Finally, if you like spending time in museums, you’re in for a treat, because Ottawa has an absolutely incredible cultural offering.

💙 Authentik’s Favorite: Canadian Museum of History

This museum complex is dedicated to 1,000 years of Canadian history, from the arrival of the Vikings, through the various traditions and art of the Indigenous peoples and the roughly 275 ethnic groups in the country.

Don’t miss the section dedicated to the Canadian Children's Museum, which offers a fantastic interactive adventure around the globe. Your little explorers can discover different cultures and traditions from all over the world through fun activities and age-appropriate exhibits. The complex also houses an IMAX theatre where you can enjoy spectacular large-screen experiences.

Our practical tips:

• The museum is located in Gatineau, just across from Ottawa. Allow 15 minutes on foot from downtown
• Plan a whole day there as the collections are extensive
• If you are traveling with family, reserve time for the Children's Museum—the little ones love it!

5. Bruce Peninsula National Park

Considered as one of Canada's most breathtaking natural wonders, Bruce Peninsula National Park features turquoise waters and steep cliffs. With Lake Huron on one side and Georgian Bay on the other, you'll be in paradise if you love to swim.

Hiking trails wind through the forests and along the coast of this UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve. One of the highlights of your visit is the hike to The Grotto. Keep your eyes open—you might even spot a black bear around a bend in the trail...

Authentik 💙 Favourite: Bruce Trail

This trail stretches over 890 km from Niagara Falls in Ontario to Tobermory at the northern tip of the peninsula. Within the park, the trail, which runs along the Niagara Escarpment, is often rough and rugged. From the cliff, you'll have breathtaking views of Georgian Bay! This trail is rated moderate to difficult. You can enter at several points and turn back whenever you want.

Our practical tips:

• Choose sturdy hiking shoes—the terrain can be very rugged
• Bring plenty of water and high-energy snacks
• Don't forget your camera to capture these exceptional panoramas

The Bruce Trail gives you total flexibility: whether you want a one-hour stroll or a multi-day hike, this legendary trail adapts to your adventure desires.

6. Algonquin Provincial Park

Welcome to the oldest and largest of Ontario’s provincial parks. Easily accessible from Toronto or Ottawa, you'll have the chance to discover a wild landscape of lakes, rivers, and forests. Algonquin Provincial Park boasts 7 major rivers, more than 2,500 lakes, and 1,600 km of navigable waterways, making it the dream location for hiking and canoeing!

With a little luck, you might even spot moose (the park’s emblematic animal), black bears, deer, and plenty of birds. The best season to visit is autumn, when the park is decked out in red, orange, and yellow leaves.

Authentik 💙 Favourite: Lookout Trail

This short 2.1 km loop trail is quite steep and rugged, but you won’t be disappointed by the magnificent view that awaits you. It’s very popular thanks to its excellent effort/reward ratio!

The trail quickly leads you through a beautiful forest of maples and white pines before climbing up to an exceptional panoramic viewpoint. Once at the top, you'll enjoy a fabulous view over several hundred square kilometers of Algonquin Park.

Our practical tips:

• Arrive early in the morning to avoid crowds as it’s a very popular trail!
• Bring good hiking shoes; the terrain is rugged in places
• Bring your camera—the views from the lookout are spectacular

This really is the perfect hike if you’re short on time but want to enjoy a stunning view of Algonquin. In under an hour, you'll feel like you've conquered the park!

7. Point Pelee National Park

By bike, on foot or on the water, come and discover Point Pelee National Park, one of the must-visit places in Ontario.

This park, located at the tip of the Huron-Erie Peninsula which separates the two Great Lakes that give it its name, stretches along a 16-kilometer-long sand spit. In fact, it is the southernmost point of Canada.

Point Pelee National Park is home to an incredible diversity of wildlife and plants. Situated on the migratory routes of the Mississippi and Atlantic flyways, it's also a stopover for many migratory birds. In spring and autumn, birdwatchers flock here to observe some of the park’s 350 species.

Authentik 💙 Favourite: Biking in Point Pelee Park

With its flat, well-maintained trails, Point Pelee is perfect for exploring by bike. You can pedal leisurely through the park’s different ecosystems: Carolinian forest, marshes, beaches, and prairies.

The main trail crosses the entire park from the visitors’ center to the southernmost tip of mainland Canada. Along the way, you’ll come across observation areas perfect for taking a break and spotting migratory birds.

Our practical tips:

• Bike rentals available at the park’s visitors’ center
• Trails are accessible from May to October, depending on weather conditions
• Bring binoculars for wildlife watching

Biking lets you cover more ground than walking while staying quiet so you don’t disturb the wildlife. It really is the best way to discover this natural gem at your own pace!

8. The Lake Superior Scenic Route

Come and experience Ontario’s wild nature by driving one of Canada’s most famous scenic routes along the north shore of Lake Superior. From Sault Ste. Marie to Thunder Bay, Trans-Canada Highway 17 runs for 700 kilometers along shores and forests.

You’ll pass through Lake Superior Provincial Park, which protects pristine areas along the riverbank. Closer to Thunder Bay, in Sleeping Giant Provincial Park, you'll see the coastline plunging into the lake as an immense plateau of cliffs, headlands, and rocks.

Authentik 💙 Favourite: Canoeing in lake Superior Park

Lake Superior Provincial Park offers no less than 8 canoe routes stretching over 150 km of maintained water trails.

Whether you are a beginner or an experienced paddler, you’ll find your perfect adventure: from day trips to multi-day adventures like the 56 km route on the Sand River.

Our practical tips:

• Reserve your backcountry campsites in advance for multi-day routes
• The marked sections of the Lower Agawa and Anjigami rivers run through the park and offer various challenges
• Bring waterproof gear and warm clothing, even in summer

This is truly the ultimate canoe experience in Ontario for discovering the wild beauty of the Great Lakes in an absolutely preserved setting.

9. Manitoulin Island

Located on Lake Huron, Manitoulin Island is the largest freshwater island in the world. It’s a must-see destination in Ontario to discover Anishinaabe First Nations culture and enjoy outdoor activities.

Come lay your towel on the beach at Providence Bay and then set out on the Cup and Saucer Trail to reach one of the island’s most spectacular lookouts. If you still have energy, head to Bridal Veil Falls where you can swim and even go behind the waterfall.

Authentik 💙 Favourite: Cup and Saucer trail

The Cup and Saucer Trail, also called Michigiwadinong by First Nations, is a spectacular hike that takes you to the top of 70-meter-high limestone cliffs.

This trail is part of the Niagara Escarpment and offers several routes depending on your ability. The 5 km White Trail takes you directly to the most spectacular viewpoints, while the full 9 km loop lets you explore more of this 345-acre nature reserve.

Our practical tips:

• Free parking at the intersection of Highway 540 and Bidwell Road, 20 km west of Little Current
• Allow 2 to 4 hours depending on the route you choose
• Sturdy hiking shoes are a must—the terrain can be slippery

This is truly the must-do hike on Manitoulin Island for all lovers of beautiful scenery.## 10. Sandbanks Park[summary]

If you're craving dunes and fine sand, then set your course for Sandbanks Provincial Park on the shores of Lake Ontario. Nestled in Prince Edward County, this park is home to the world's largest formation of freshwater dunes and sandbars.

With its three beautiful beaches - Outlet, Lakeshore and Dunes - Sandbanks will give you the feel of a tropical getaway without leaving Canada.

If you enjoy hiking, I recommend the Cedar Sands Nature Trail and Sandbanks Dunes Trail.

Authentik 💙 Favorite: Dune beach

Among Sandbanks' three beaches, Dunes Beach is undoubtedly the most impressive with its rolling sand dunes that create a landscape unique in Ontario. Located on the shores of West Lake, this beach offers clear, warm water, perfect for family swimming.

What makes Dunes Beach so special is its spectacular sandy landscape that truly gives you the impression of having traveled to the tropics.

Our practical tips:

• Arrive early in the morning to avoid crowds and find a parking spot
• Watch out for sudden changes in water depth - stay vigilant with children
• Take advantage of on-site facilities: restrooms, playground, picnic tables and even a snack bar

It's really the ideal place to spend a full day of relaxation by the water, with all the comfort families need.

Ontario's 10 Must-Sees at a Glance

Ready for your trip to Ontario?

Ontario promises you unforgettable experiences, whether you're a lover of unspoiled nature or passionate about urban culture. Between the roar of Niagara Falls, the cosmopolitan buzz of Toronto, the serenity of Algonquin lakes, and the breathtaking views of Bruce Peninsula, this province guarantees a trip full of discoveries.

Whether you're planning a road trip for a few days or a longer stay, these 10 destinations will give you an authentic taste of Ontario's diversity. Don't forget to tailor your itinerary to your tastes: prioritize national parks if you love hiking, or focus on Toronto and Ottawa for a more urban experience.

So what are you waiting for to discover Ontario? Contact our local Authentik Canada experts to organize your turnkey trip and fully enjoy this Canadian adventure. And if you have any questions, head to the comments section below!