Published March 16th, 2025

With the “Elbows Up” movement in full swing and Canadian tourism becoming increasingly popular, it’s an excellent time to discover, or rediscover, our captivating country.

So you’re looking at the east coast for a summer vacation and asking yourself “what’s there to do in Ontario in summer?” So, so, so much! I’ve been there and have been to various regions in my career. Ontario is fantastic for family road trips, a guys and or gals trip, a couples getaway or a solo adventure.

If one of your summer travel destinations is Ontario, I’ve got a stellar list for you to either follow or include in your exploration of this beautiful part of Canada.

Peterborough

Home to Canada’s longest-running free music festival, the Peterborough Musicfest, home to the famous Lock & Paddle event, and a thriving food scene, Peterborough is still an unpacked Ontario gem.
Only 90 minutes east of Toronto, their crown jewel is the majestic Canadian Canoe Museum, fresh off a redesign and a must-experience attraction.
There’s hiking, biking, getting on the water, culture, history, great driving routes, fabulous food and drink spots and if you haven’t been, you should go. Already been? Go again!

1000 Islands

I’ve been spending a few days each summer here in the 1000 Islands since 2017 and every experience brings new adventures. From a helicopter ride for an aerial perspective of the islands, to kayaking, boat tours, the famous Boldt Castle, to a small yet mighty food and arts scene that includes the Thousand Island Playhouse Theatre, the 1000 Islands equals big fun.

Oh! If Indian food is your thing, 1000 Curry is in my top 5 Indian Restaurants ever list and after dinner, go to Bar Petunia for a drink on their ultra-cool patio.
Plus, the 1000 Islands Parkway is a delightful driving route.

Thunder Bay

Northern Ontario is a haven for outdoor adventure, with Thunder Bay being a shining star. It’s a short flight from Toronto or a road trip worthy drive with plenty of rewards.
Sleeping Giant Provincial Park has a network of hiking trails, including the day-long Top of the Giant hike that’s almost 25 km round trip, which yes, I completed.
See Lake Superior by sailboat, traverse Canada’s longest suspension footbridge, spend time at Fort William Historic Park, and spend the night in a converted courthouse hotel.

Point Pelee National Park

Go down to the far east side of Ontario and Point Pelee will take you to the southern most point of Canada’s mainland. Hiking, cycling, walking, kayaking and canoeing are encouraged here. Spend the night by camping in oTENTik A-frame cabinat Camp Henry and there’s bird watching galore here. 15 minutes away is Leamington for your urban needs and Windsor is only an hour away as well for bigger city amenities.

Niagara Falls

Wait, wait, wait! I know it’s labelled, albeit unfairly, as a tourist trap spot but I promise there’s much more that’s off the radar.
Start with the Whirlpool Aero Car that takes you 200 feet over the Niagara Gorge. Then get really close to the Gorge via the White Water Walk along the 1,000 foot boardwalk.
Want more things to do in Niagara Falls? Of course you do!
The Tunnel at the new Niagara Parks Power Station brings you below ground via elevator and then after a 2,200 foot walk through the tunnel, your final stop is a ground level view of the falls.
Also check out the Niagara Parks Butterfly Conservatory & Niagara Parks Botanical Gardens and The Floral Showhouse for some outdoor nature time.

Sudbury

Home of The Big Nickel at the amazing, entertaining and remarkable Dynamic Earth Science Museum, Sudbury is the gateway to Northern Ontario.
Kivi Park has plenty of trails for walking, hiking and cycling, plus there are several kayak and canoe options throughout the city.
There are oh-so many murals spattered throughout the city, there’s Science North with hands-on exhibits, animals and ideal for all ages, A.Y. Jackson Lookout and the sensational High Falls on the Onaping River.

Hamilton

Ah, Hamilton, the land of over 100 waterfalls, a thriving arts and culture scene, an ever-growing and delicious food and drink scene (seriously, they just keep getting better) and the famous Dundurn Castle. Take in the Rail Trail via walking or cycling, the enchanting Royal Botanical Gardens, there’s a cool beachfront that’s worth checking out and the West Harbour.
Be sure to check out Historic Hess Village for food and drinks galore. And in mid-September, check out SuperCrawl, their music and arts festival.
Plus, it’s less than an hour from Toronto. And 40-ish minutes from Mississauga. Where I live. And where Canada’s biggest airport is. So if you’re flying in, it’s pretty close.

7 Sweet Summer Spots in Ontario