Small Town Ontario Road Trips

Ontario's small towns are the best-kept secret of the province's road trip scene. While everyone heads to Muskoka or Georgian Bay, the small towns offer charm, excellent food, and zero traffic. Here are routes built around towns that are genuinely worth visiting.

The Southwestern Loop: Elora, Fergus, St. Jacobs

200 km loop from Toronto. Elora has a stunning limestone gorge with trails and swimming, plus good restaurants along the main street. Fergus is right next door with a Scottish heritage vibe. St. Jacobs is Ontario's most famous Mennonite community — the farmers market (Tuesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays) is outstanding for produce, baked goods, and preserves. Add a stop in Stratford for world-class theatre and restaurants that rival Toronto.

Lake Huron Shore: Bayfield, Goderich, Grand Bend

250 km from Toronto. Goderich calls itself the prettiest town in Canada and has a genuine case — the octagonal town square and Lake Huron sunsets are hard to beat. Bayfield is a tiny harbour town with upscale dining. Grand Bend has beaches and summer nightlife. Drive Highway 21 between them for Lake Huron views.

Eastern Ontario: Merrickville, Perth, Almonte

350 km from Toronto, or 80 km from Ottawa. Merrickville (on the Rideau Canal) has antique shops, galleries, and a restored blockhouse. Perth has a beautiful downtown with the Tay River running through it. Almonte has transformed from a mill town into an artisan food destination. This loop works perfectly as a day trip from Ottawa.

Lake Erie Shore: Port Dover, Turkey Point, Port Stanley

200 km loop from Hamilton. Ontario's forgotten coast. Port Dover has a harbour, fish and chips, and Friday the 13th motorcycle rallies. Turkey Point and Long Point have some of the best sandy beaches in Ontario without the crowds of Wasaga or Sauble. Port Stanley has a charming main street and the London and Port Stanley Railway heritage train.

For more Ontario routes, see our road trip guide, Georgian Bay drives, and Ottawa Valley routes. Before heading out, check our vehicle preparation guide.