Yours To Discover: Ontario's Best Road Trip Routes

Ontario, the second-largest province in Canada, is a road tripper's dream with its diverse landscapes, vibrant cities, and charming small towns. From the bustling metropolis of Toronto to the serene beauty of the Great Lakes, Ontario offers countless opportunities for exploration and adventure. Whether you're a nature enthusiast, a history buff, or simply looking for a scenic drive, this guide will help you discover the best road trips in Ontario, complete with routes and must-see attractions.

1. The Great Lakes Circle Tour

Route: Toronto → Niagara Falls → Windsor → Sault Ste. Marie → Thunder Bay → Manitoulin Island → Toronto

The Great Lakes Circle Tour is an epic journey that takes you around the shores of the five Great Lakes, offering stunning views and a variety of attractions along the way. Starting in Toronto, head towards Niagara Falls, where you can witness the awe-inspiring power of one of the world's most famous waterfalls. Continue southwest to Windsor, where the Detroit skyline across the river adds a unique urban backdrop.

From Windsor, follow the northern shores of Lake Erie to Sault Ste. Marie, where you can explore the historic locks and take a boat tour of the St. Marys River. Heading west, the drive to Thunder Bay offers breathtaking views of Lake Superior's rugged coastline. Don't miss a visit to Sleeping Giant Provincial Park, where you can hike to the top of the "giant" for panoramic views of the lake.

Next, make your way to Manitoulin Island, the largest freshwater island in the world, accessible via ferry from Tobermory. The island is rich in Indigenous culture and offers beautiful beaches, hiking trails, and charming villages. Finally, return to Toronto, completing the circle tour.

Must-See Attractions:

• Niagara Falls
• Point Pelee National Park
• Mackinac Island (Michigan, USA)
• Sleeping Giant Provincial Park
• Manitoulin Island

2. The Algonquin Park Adventure

Route: Toronto → Huntsville → Algonquin Park → Ottawa

For nature lovers, a road trip to Algonquin Provincial Park is a must. Start your journey in Toronto and head north to Huntsville, a charming town that serves as the gateway to the park. Spend some time exploring Huntsville's vibrant arts scene and waterfront before continuing to Algonquin Park.

Algonquin Park is renowned for its stunning landscapes, abundant wildlife, and outdoor activities. Canoeing, hiking, and wildlife watching are popular pastimes, with over 2,400 lakes and 1,200 kilometers of streams and rivers to explore. The park is also a haven for birdwatchers and photographers.

After experiencing the natural beauty of Algonquin, continue east to Ottawa, Canada's capital. Here, you can explore the city's rich history, visit national museums, and enjoy the scenic Rideau Canal.

Must-See Attractions:

• Arrowhead Provincial Park
• Algonquin Park Visitors Centre
• Canoe Lake
• Booth's Rock Trail
• Parliament Hill (Ottawa)

3. The Bruce Peninsula Excursion

Route: Toronto → Owen Sound → Tobermory → Sauble Beach → Toronto

The Bruce Peninsula, located between Georgian Bay and Lake Huron, is one of Ontario's most picturesque regions. Start your road trip in Toronto and drive to Owen Sound, a small city known for its waterfalls and cultural festivals.

From Owen Sound, head to Tobermory, a charming village at the northern tip of the peninsula. Tobermory is the gateway to Fathom Five National Marine Park, famous for its crystal-clear waters, shipwrecks, and the iconic Flowerpot Island. Take a boat tour to explore these underwater treasures and enjoy the stunning coastal scenery.

On your return trip, stop at Sauble Beach, one of the longest freshwater beaches in the world. Relax on the sandy shores or take part in water sports before heading back to Toronto.

Must-See Attractions:

• Inglis Falls (Owen Sound)
• Bruce Peninsula National Park
• Fathom Five National Marine Park
• Flowerpot Island
• Sauble Beach

4. The Rideau Heritage Route

Route: Kingston → Perth → Merrickville → Ottawa

The Rideau Heritage Route follows the historic Rideau Canal, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and offers a blend of natural beauty and historical charm. Begin your journey in Kingston, a city known for its historic sites and vibrant waterfront. Explore Fort Henry and the Kingston Penitentiary Museum before heading north to Perth.

Perth is a picturesque town with beautiful stone buildings, boutique shops, and scenic parks. Continue to Merrickville, often called "Canada's prettiest village," with its charming shops, galleries, and historic buildings. Finally, reach Ottawa, where you can enjoy the city's many attractions and the stunning views along the Rideau Canal.

Must-See Attractions:

• Fort Henry (Kingston)
• Big Rideau Lake
• Rideau Canal Locks
• Merrickville Ruins
• ByWard Market (Ottawa)

5. The Muskoka Lakes Loop

Route: Toronto → Gravenhurst → Bracebridge → Huntsville → Parry Sound → Toronto

The Muskoka region, known as Ontario's cottage country, is famous for its stunning lakes, lush forests, and charming towns. Start your road trip in Toronto and drive to Gravenhurst, where you can visit the Muskoka Wharf and take a cruise on the historic RMS Segwun steamship.

From Gravenhurst, head to Bracebridge, known for its beautiful waterfalls and vibrant arts scene. Continue to Huntsville, where you can explore the Group of Seven Outdoor Gallery and enjoy outdoor activities at Arrowhead Provincial Park. Make your way to Parry Sound, located on the shores of Georgian Bay, before returning to Toronto.

Must-See Attractions:

• Muskoka Wharf (Gravenhurst)
• Bracebridge Falls
• Group of Seven Outdoor Gallery (Huntsville)
• Arrowhead Provincial Park
• 30,000 Islands (Parry Sound)

6. The Thousand Islands Parkway

Route: Kingston → Gananoque → Brockville → Cornwall

The Thousand Islands Parkway is a scenic drive along the St. Lawrence River, offering stunning views of the Thousand Islands archipelago. Start your journey in Kingston and head east to Gananoque, known as the "Gateway to the Thousand Islands." Take a boat tour to explore the islands, including Boldt Castle and Singer Castle.

Continue east to Brockville, where you can visit the Brockville Railway Tunnel and the Aquatarium, an interactive aquarium and science center. End your trip in Cornwall, a city with beautiful parks and waterfront trails.

Must-See Attractions:

• Thousand Islands National Park
• Boldt Castle (USA)
• Singer Castle (USA)
• Brockville Railway Tunnel
• Cornwall Waterfront Trail

7. The Niagara Parkway

Route: Niagara-on-the-Lake → Niagara Falls → Fort Erie

The Niagara Parkway is one of the most scenic drives in Ontario, following the Niagara River from Niagara-on-the-Lake to Fort Erie. Start your trip in Niagara-on-the-Lake, a charming town known for its wineries, historic sites, and beautiful gardens.

Drive south along the parkway to Niagara Falls, where you can experience the majestic waterfalls and various attractions like the Journey Behind the Falls and the Butterfly Conservatory. Continue to Fort Erie, where you can visit the Old Fort Erie and enjoy the scenic views along Lake Erie.

Must-See Attractions:

• Niagara-on-the-Lake
• Niagara Falls
• Butterfly Conservatory
• Whirlpool Aero Car
• Old Fort Erie

8. The Georgian Bay Coastal Route

Route: Barrie → Collingwood → Wasaga Beach → Penetanguishene → Midland → Barrie

The Georgian Bay Coastal Route offers stunning views of the bay and a variety of outdoor activities. Start your trip in Barrie, located on the shores of Lake Simcoe. Head northwest to Collingwood, where you can enjoy outdoor adventures at Blue Mountain Resort.

Continue to Wasaga Beach, the longest freshwater beach in the world, for some relaxation and water sports. Next, visit Penetanguishene and Midland, where you can explore historic sites like the Sainte-Marie among the Hurons and the Discovery Harbour.

Must-See Attractions:

• Blue Mountain Resort
• Wasaga Beach
• Sainte-Marie among the Hurons
• Discovery Harbour
• Georgian Bay Islands National Park

Tips for an Unforgettable Road Trip in Ontario

• Plan Ahead: Ensure your vehicle is in good condition, and plan your route, accommodations, and activities in advance.
• Pack Essentials: Bring a road map, a first aid kit, snacks, water, and a fully charged phone.
• Explore Off the Beaten Path: Don't be afraid to take detours and explore lesser-known attractions and towns.
• Stay Safe: Follow road safety rules, be mindful of wildlife, and check weather conditions before setting out.
• Enjoy the Journey: Take your time, enjoy the scenery, and make the most of your road trip experience.

Ontario's diverse landscapes and rich cultural heritage make it a perfect destination for road trips. Whether you're exploring the shores of the Great Lakes, the rugged beauty of Algonquin Park, or the charming towns along the Niagara Parkway, each route offers its own unique experiences and attractions. So pack your bags, hit the road, and discover the best of Ontario on your next adventure.

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