Western Ontario Travel Guide
Discover the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay, what to buy, and more in Western Ontario. Plan your trip with our detailed guide.
- Introduction to Western Ontario
- List of Places to Visit in Western Ontario
- Hiking/Biking Routes of Western Ontario
- Best Things to Do in Western Ontario: Activities and Tours
- Week-Long Itinerary for Western Ontario
- Food and Drink Scene of Western Ontario
- Where to Stay in Western Ontario: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
- What to Buy in Western Ontario: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
- Local Culture and Customs of Western Ontario
- Best Time to Visit Western Ontario
- Do’s and Don’ts of Western Ontario
- Safety and Health
- Getting to Western Ontario: Transportation Options and Logistics
- How to Get Around in Western Ontario
- Where to Go Next from Western Ontario: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
- Conclusion
Introduction to Western Ontario
Welcome to Western Ontario, a stunning region spanning from Lake Huron to Lake Erie. A land of vast lakes, magnificent forests, thriving cities, and charming towns, this destination is a paradise for nature enthusiasts, foodies, history buffs, and adventure seekers alike. In this comprehensive guide, you will discover the top attractions, must-try dishes, best places to stay, and more, to help you plan your dream vacation to Western Ontario.
List of Places to Visit in Western Ontario
Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places
Western Ontario is a treasure trove of culturally significant sites. Some of the most popular ones to explore include:
- Canadian Automotive Museum - a fascinating museum filled with vintage cars and automotive artifacts.
- Canadian Historical Aircraft Association - a living museum featuring restored vintage aircraft,
- Fanshawe Pioneer Village - a 19th-century outdoor museum that recreates pioneer life.
- Royal Ontario Museum - a renowned museum in Toronto with world-class exhibits on art, history, and science.
Natural Attractions of Western Ontario: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views
Western Ontario is home to some of Canada’s most stunning natural landscapes. Here are some of the must-visit places for nature lovers:
- Bruce Peninsula National Park - a gem of southern Ontario, with a stunning coastline, hiking trails, and grottos.
- Point Pelee National Park - Canada’s southernmost national park, known for its birdwatching, beaches, and rare wildlife.
- Pinery Provincial Park - a fantastic place for camping, hiking, swimming, and canoeing on Lake Huron’s shores.
- Niagara Falls - one of the world’s most famous waterfalls, on the border of Ontario and New York.
Hiking/Biking Routes of Western Ontario
For those who love outdoor adventures, Western Ontario offers a fantastic selection of hiking and biking trails. Some of the most popular ones include:
- Elora Cataract Trailway - a 47-km trail through forests, fields, and rivers.
- Kissing Bridge Trailway - a 45-km trailway that winds through Waterloo, Wellington, and Perth Counties.
- Trans Canada Trail - a network of trails that spans the country, with several sections in Western Ontario.
- Waterloo Region Trails - a network of trails that offers something for everyone, from urban walks to rural hikes.
Best Things to Do in Western Ontario: Activities and Tours
Western Ontario offers a wealth of activities and tours that cater to all tastes and interests. Some of the most popular choices include:
- Toronto City Tour - explore the city’s vibrant neighborhoods, iconic landmarks, and stunning skyline.
- Canada’s Wonderland - a thrilling amusement park in Vaughan, with over 200 attractions and rides.
- Niagara Wine Tours - visit some of the best wineries in the Niagara region and taste delicious VQA wines.
- CN Tower EdgeWalk - experience the world’s highest full-circle, hands-free walk on a 5-foot wide ledge, 1168 feet above the ground.
Week-Long Itinerary for Western Ontario
Day 1-2: Explore Toronto’s vibrant neighborhoods and iconic landmarks, such as the CN Tower and the Art Gallery of Ontario.
Day 3: Visit Niagara Falls and take a thrilling Hornblower Niagara Cruises boat tour to the bottom of the falls.
Day 4: Discover the cultural gems of Hamilton, including the Dundurn National Historic Site and the Canadian Warplane Heritage Museum.
Day 5: Hike or bike in the stunning Elora Gorge Conservation Area, then explore the charming village of Elora and its artisan shops.
Day 6: Take a scenic drive to Blue Mountain, a scenic resort town located on the shores of Georgian Bay, and indulge in some outdoor adventures, such as skiing, snowshoeing, or zip-lining.
Day 7: Spend a relaxing day at Pinery Provincial Park, swimming, canoeing, or hiking along the beach and sand dunes.
Food and Drink Scene of Western Ontario
Must-Try Dishes
Western Ontario offers some of Canada’s most delicious culinary traditions, such as:
- Butter tarts - a delicious pastry filled with butter, sugar, and eggs, available at bakeries throughout the region.
- Peameal bacon sandwiches - a Toronto staple, made with slices of juicy, grilled pork loin.
- Poutine - a popular dish made with French fries, cheese curds, and gravy.
Local Beverages
Western Ontario is famous for its excellent wines, craft beers, and spirits. Some of the most popular drinks to try include:
- Niagara Icewine - a sweet dessert wine made from grapes that have frozen on the vine, available at wineries throughout the Niagara region.
- Steam Whistle Brewing - a Toronto-based brewery that makes delicious pilsner beers that are crisp, refreshing, and available all over Western Ontario.
- Canadian Club Whisky - a world-famous whiskey made in Walkerville. You can visit the distillery and taste the whiskies.
Where to Stay in Western Ontario: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
Western Ontario has tremendous accommodation options that cater to all budgets and preferences. Some of the best places to stay include:
- Fairmont Royal York - a luxurious hotel in downtown Toronto, with a spa, a rooftop lounge, and stunning city views.
- HI-Montreal Hostel - a comfortable and affordable hostel in downtown Montreal, within walking distance of many attractions.
- Elmwood Spa - a lovely retreat in Toronto with lavish spa treatments, water therapies, and an outdoor pool.
What to Buy in Western Ontario: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
Western Ontario offers plenty of great souvenirs and local products that make perfect gifts or keepsakes. Some of the most popular things to buy include:
- Maple Syrup - a quintessential Canadian product, with many varieties available at farmers’ markets and shops throughout the region.
- Handmade Crafts - there are many artisans and craftspeople in Western Ontario, creating beautiful pottery, jewelry, and textiles.
- Hockey Memorabilia - a favorite souvenir for sports fans, who can find all kinds of jerseys, hats, and signed merchandise at sports stores throughout the region.
Local Culture and Customs of Western Ontario
Western Ontario’s cultures and customs are diverse and rich, reflecting its Indigenous, British, European, and American influences. Some of the most notable cultural celebrations and traditions include:
- First Nations Powwows - traditional indigenous gatherings that feature dances, drumming, traditional costumes, and food.
- Royal Agricultural Winter Fair - an annual Toronto event that showcases Ontario’s agriculture and farming traditions.
- Canada Day Celebrations - a nationwide event held each July 1st, with fireworks, music, parades, and food.
Best Time to Visit Western Ontario
Western Ontario is a year-round destination, with each season offering its unique attractions and surprises. The best time to visit depends on your preferences, but here is a general overview of the weather and high season:
- Summer (June to August) - warm weather, long days, and the most crowded time due to the popular outdoor activities and festivals.
- Fall (September to November) - cool temperatures, beautiful foliage, and quieter crowds.
- Winter (December to February) - cold weather, snow, and great opportunities for skiing, snowmobiling, and ice skating.
- Spring (March to May) - mild temperatures, blooming flowers and trees, and lower prices.
Do’s and Don’ts of Western Ontario
Do:
- Try the local cuisine, wines, and beers.
- Take off your shoes when entering private homes.
- Be polite and respectful to others, regardless of culture or background.
- Enjoy the natural beauty of the area by hiking, biking, or kayaking.
Don’t:
- Litter or damage the environment.
- Drink and drive.
- Make assumptions about people’s beliefs or practices.
- Be loud and disrespectful in public places.
Safety and Health
Safety in Western Ontario
Western Ontario is a safe destination, but it’s always wise to take precautions. Some essential safety tips include:
- Lock car doors, even while driving.
- Watch your belongings in crowded areas.
- Use caution when swimming or boating in lakes and rivers.
- Use bug spray and protective clothing when hiking in the woods.
Health in Western Ontario
Western Ontario’s quality of health care is very high, and there are many hospitals and clinics throughout the region. To stay healthy during your trip, consider the following:
- Pack adequate protection from the sun, such as sunscreen and sunglasses.
- Bring any prescription medication you need in adequate amounts.
- Check with your doctor if you have any health concerns before your trip.
Getting to Western Ontario: Transportation Options and Logistics
Airports Near Western Ontario
Western Ontario is well-connected to the rest of Canada and other international destinations due to several airports, including:
- Toronto Pearson International Airport - Canada’s largest and busiest airport, located 22 km northwest of Toronto.
- John C. Munro Hamilton International Airport - serves the Hamilton region and offers flights to several Canadian and American cities.
- London International Airport - connects the London area with several Canadian and American cities.
Bus Stations Near Western Ontario
Western Ontario’s cities and towns are served by several bus companies, including:
Other Options
Other transportation options include car rentals, taxis, and private limousine services.
How to Get Around in Western Ontario
Getting around Western Ontario is comfortable and convenient, with several transportation options, including:
- Public Transit - Many cities and towns in Western Ontario have excellent bus systems, including Toronto, London, and Hamilton.
- Train Service – Via Rail Canada and GO Transit operate several daily routes that connect Western Ontario to other cities and regions in Canada.
- Car rental - There are several rental services available throughout the region.
- Taxis and Ride-share services - Uber and Lyft services can be found throughout the region.
Where to Go Next from Western Ontario: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
Western Ontario is an excellent starting point for exploring other regions of Canada, including:
Conclusion
We hope this comprehensive guide has helped you plan your adventure to Western Ontario. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or cultural immersion, Western Ontario has something to offer everyone. So pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable experience in one of Canada’s most magnificent regions.
