Dreaming of some small town adventures this year? You’ll want to plan a trip to some of these gorgeous small towns near Toronto.
From beach towns to quaint winter gems, these villages are located a road trip from the city and offer an idyllic escape with their enchanting streets, cute shops, and picturesque natural scenery.
Here are 10 beautiful small towns every Torontonian should add to their bucket list for 2025.
Paris
Why you need to go: Dubbed the « Cobblestone Capital of Canada, » this beautiful small town is full of enchantment. Located an hour away from Toronto, Paris is brimming with cute shops and scenic surroundings.
You can spend your day exploring the local boutiques, shopping at The Paris Wincey Mills Co. and indulging in meals on waterside patios.
During the summer months, you can go on a tubing adventure down the Grand River, or wander along some of the picturesque trails surrounding the town, such as the Cambridge to Paris Rail Trail.
St. Jacobs Village
Why you need to go: Take a trip back in time at this quaint village situated an hour outside of the city. St. Jacobs has endless country charm and is dotted with cozy bakeries, historic shops and more.
It’s a great spot to go for a peaceful city escape, and is home to attractions such as the Waterloo Central Railway and St. Jacobs Farmers’ Market — the largest of its kind in Canada.
Throughout the year you can enjoy community events and explore some of the scenic trails that run along the Conestoga River.
Collingwood
Why you need to go: You’ll want to add this 2-hour road trip to your 2025 bucket list. Collingwood is a dreamy small town with lots to enjoy throughout the year.
The Main Street is packed with cute local shops where you’ll find everything from clothing to home decor and local produce.
You don’t want to miss out on a trip to the harbour, where you’ll find stunning water views, trails, tours and more.
It’s just a 10 minute drive away from Blue Mountain Village, which offers skiing, snowboarding, festivals and European charm.
Picton
Why you need to go: If you’re looking for a summer getaway spot, keep Picton in mind. Located in stunning Prince Edward County, this charming town boasts a vibrant Main Street and incredible attractions.
It’s a 2-hour drive from Toronto, making it a great spot for day trip or weekend getaway.
There are lots of shops and cafes to explore, as well as farm markets and restaurants.
The town is surrounded by dreamy wineries where you can sip the day away and grab a bite to eat. It’s also home to the breathtaking Sandbanks Provincial Park, where you’ll find three white sand beaches and turquoise waves.
Unionville
Why you need to go: Cue the Gilmore Girls theme song! This cute town located 30 minutes from Toronto is a real-life Stars Hollow and will have you feeling like the main character of a cozy show.
Despite being a short drive from the city, Unionville is brimming with quaint small town views and storybook streets.
You can spend a day shopping, sipping coffee on sun-filled patios, or exploring some of the town’s trails.
Gilmore Girls fans won’t want to miss out on the Gilmore Girls Tour which takes you to filming locations throughout the town.
Main Street Unionville Website
Port Perry
Why you need to go: Located just an hour away from Toronto, Port Perry is a hidden gem that’s worth a visit. With lake views and old-world streets, it’s straight out of a Hallmark film.
There are all sorts of shops, cafes and eateries where you can find unique items and drool-worthy treats (chocolate-lovers won’t want to miss out on The Nutty Chocolatier).
The waterfront park is a beautiful spot for a stroll, and you can also enjoy the Port Perry Farmers’ Market on select Saturdays.
Bracebridge
Why you need to go: Dreaming of a serene city escape? Bracebridge, situated just over 2 hours from Toronto, is the place to go. The charming town is known as the « waterfall capital of Muskoka » and is home to « three of the area’s most beautiful cascades, » according to Discover Muskoka.
You can spend your time exploring the Main Street boutiques, hiking to cascades, enjoying Christmas festivities at Santa’s Village and soaking up the rustic charm of Muskoka.
Creemore
Why you need to go: This charming Ontario village is a little slice of paradise and is located about two hours from Toronto. Known as « the little village with a big heart, » the town boasts old-world streets, quaint local shops and drool-worthy eateries, making it an ideal spot for a day trip or weekend getaway.
Attractions include North America’s Smallest Jail, Purple Hill Lavender and Nottawasaga Lookout.
You’ll also want to stop by the Creemore Springs Brewery for some of the town’s popular craft beer.
Port Hope
Why you need to go: Perched on the shores of Lake Ontario, Port Hope is a picturesque small town that will transport you back in time.
It’s an hour away from Toronto and is full of storybook charm.
According to the website, the « historic downtown is filled to the brim with 19th century architecture and incredible stories » and is « the perfect one-stop shop for unique finds to take home. »
You can soak up some sun on the sandy beaches and, if you’re feeling spooky, take a spine-tingling tour around the town that leads to It filming locations.
Elora
Why you need to go: This popular small town, located just over an hour from Toronto, is straight off a postcard. The European vibes, historic shops and cute cafes make it a bucket list-worthy destination.
With year-round festivals, a cozy Christmas market, luxurious spa and turquoise swimming hole, there’s no shortage of things to do while visiting this enchanting spot.
Enjoy the charm of these small towns near Toronto this year.
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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