Ontario is home to many breathtaking natural wonders, with Niagara Falls being one of the most iconic. If you’re looking to explore beyond this renowned cascade, there are plenty of other stunning spots waiting to be discovered.
From ancient caves to dreamy islands and more, these natural wonders are magical spots for a summer day trip.
Here are 11 natural wonders in Ontario to explore this summer if you’ve already seen Niagara Falls.
McGinnis Lake
Price: $12.25 + day use fee
When: May 9, 2025 to October 13, 2025
Address: 2249 Northeys Bay Rd., Woodview, ON
Why You Need To Go: Located in Petroglyphs Provincial Park, McGinnis Lake is a rare meromictic lake, meaning that its layers of water don’t intermix. It’s one of the few of its kind in Canada and is known for its vibrant blue/green hues.
While you can’t swim in the lake, you can picnic by the shore and admire its unique colouring.
The Grotto
Price: $9 day use fee per adult, $15.75 parking fee
Address: Cyprus Lake Rd., Tobermory, ON
Why You Need To Go: This iconic natural wonder is located in The Bruce Peninsula National Park and is a popular summer destination. The ancient sea cave features dramatic limestone cliffs and crystal-blue waters that will transport you to the Mediterranean.
Reservations are required from May 1 to October 31, so be sure to plan ahead.
Manitoulin Island
Adress: Manitoulin Island, ON
Why You Need To Go: You can spend your summer days soaking up some sun on the world’s largest freshwater island. Manitoulin Island is a little slice of paradise with sandy beaches, shimmering water, scenic trails and a majestic waterfall.
Ouimet Canyon
Price: $12.25 + day use fee
When: May 16, 2025 to October 31, 2025
Address: Greenwich Lake Rd., Pass Lake, ON
Why You Need To Go: You don’t have to travel to the U.S. to explore a massive canyon. Ouimet Canyon is Canada’s version of this natural wonder, and it features panoramic views, a boardwalk trail, and rare plants.
Bonnechere Caves
Price: $25 per adult
When: Reopening Victoria Day Weekend, 2025
Address: 1247 Fourth Chute Rd., Eganville, ON
Why You Need To Go: This natural wonder lies far beneath the ground and is thought to « have been the bottom of a tropical sea 500 million years ago. »
You can wander through a cave system complete with stone passageways, fossils and more for a totally unique adventure.
Wasaga Beach
Price: Free admission
Address: Wasaga Beach, ON
Why You Need To Go: Summer means beach days, and Wasaga Beach is a gorgeous spot for a day trip. It is the longest freshwater beach in the world and boasts sandy shores and sparkling waters.
You can relax in the sand, take a dip in the waves and explore the shops and restaurants dotted around the town.
1000 Islands
Address: 1000 Islands, ON
Why You Need To Go: Located on the border between New York State and Ontario, the 1000 Islands region is a scenic paradise with endless islands and crystal-clear waters.
You can cruise around the islands, visit the many attractions and spend some time in the quaint towns and cities that dot the waterfront.
Island Islands Tourism Website
Bathtub Island
When: May 2, 2025 to October 19, 2025
Address: Katherine Cove, ON
Why You Need To Go: In Lake Superior Provincial Park, you can discover a basin-shaped island filled with shimmering water. It’s a unique natural wonder to explore during the summer months and is located next to a sandy beach.
To reach Bathtub Island, you can park at the Katherine Cove day-use parking area and walk along the Lake Superior Coastal Trail for about half a kilometre.
Cheltenham Badlands
Price: $10+ per vehicle
When: May 9 to November 17, 2025
Address: 1739 Olde Base Line Rd., Caledon, ON
Why You Need To Go: You’ll feel like you’ve taken a trip to Mars while visiting this natural wonder near Toronto.
The Cheltenham Badlands is « one of the most recognizable and visited natural heritage landmarks in southern Ontario » and features rolling red hills and a boardwalk trail that leads right across the surreal landscape.
Ontario Heritage Trust Website
Amethyst Mine Panorama
Price: $10 per person
When: Opening date to be announced
Address: 500 Bass Lake Rd., Shuniah, ON
Why You Need To Go: If digging for glittering amethysts sounds like your idea of a fun summer outing, you’ll want to plan a trip to this destination. You can find all sorts of unique rocks at this spot, which offers tours, mining experiences and more.
Amethyst Mine Panorama Website
Sandbanks Provincial Park
When: April 25, 2025 to October 27, 2025
Address: 3004 County Rd. 12, Picton, ON
Why You Need To Go: You can spend your summer days on white sand shores that feel like a little slice of the tropics. Sandbanks Provincial Park is home to three gorgeous beaches and the « world’s largest baymouth barrier dune formation. »
With trails, endless dunes and crystal waters, it’s a warm-weather oasis.
Before you get going, check out our Responsible Travel Guide so you can be informed, be safe, be smart, and most of all, be respectful on your adventure.
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