Whether you’re planning a local honeymoon, mini-moon or just looking for an escape close to home, there’s many places to consider spending some time with your partner in Ontario!
From Paris (yes our very own in Ontario!) to Ottawa and many places in between, hopefully this list can inspire your latest romantic vacation.
Elora
Contributed by Renee from Dream Plan Experience
Elora sits on a stunning gorge alongside the banks of the Grand River. The 25-meter limestone cliffs are perfect for adventures all year round – from rafting to repelling to river walks to ice climbing. There is even the popular music festival, Riverfest, held every August.
The 19th century-old buildings have been transformed into art studios and galleries, boutique stores and eateries. It even has its own Elora Brewing Co. providing a true craft beer experience and its own Elora Distilling Company.
Elora makes for a romantic getaway, especially if you stay at the historic landmark Elora Mill and Spa. The recently renovated luxurious accommodation is a definite splurge, but offers you such a unique experience that it’s worth it! I can’t think of a better destination for a couple’s getaway than the charming small town of Elora!
Cobourg
Contributed by Tegan from Why not walk
Cobourg, Ontario is a dreamy little town bordering Lake Ontario in Northumberland County. Located merely an hour’s drive from Toronto or a quick ride on the GO Train, there is no shortage of relaxing and romantic activities to do here.
Walk hand-in-hand down Cobourg’s main street, peeking into boutiques or cafes that strike your fancy. Go for a dip in Lake Ontario, or sit for a spell on the soft sand for beautiful views of the water. Stroll along the boardwalk, perhaps stopping for an ice cream cone at Harbourlight Delights.
If you’re feeling like doing something a bit more active together, you can rent paddleboards, canoes, or kayaks from Green Canoe Outfitters, or bicycles from Cobourg’s tourism office. In the evening, take in a concert or art installation at Victoria Hall, and dine at one of Cobourg’s many delicious establishments, such as Corfu Grill or Woodlawn Inn. If you’re in the mood for a spa day for two, check out nearby Ste. Anne’s Spa in Grafton, with its timeless stone buildings and luxurious treatments amid gorgeous rural surroundings.
Paris
Contributed by Stephanie from The World As I See It
If you’re looking for romantic places in Ontario then it doesn’t get much sweeter than Paris! Set along the banks of the Grand River just outside Brantford, there is a wealth of things to do in Paris for a romantic getaway. Start your perfect day in Paris with a stroll through downtown and grab pastries from the Paris Bakery for your walking tour of Paris’s incredible cobblestone buildings. Then grab lunch at one of the amazing restaurants with patios overlooking the Grand River. Afterward, consider taking a hike along the Rail Trail or for adventurous couples go river rafting. And after a romantic dinner at the Arlington Hotel’s Edit restaurant grab some chocolates from Chocolate Sensations, and head to Penmans Dam for sunset and a dazzling light display of the falls.
Toronto
Contributed by Mayuri from Canada Cross Roads
Toronto is one of the most romantic cities in Ontario Canada. One of the must-do activities here is to enjoy a walk by the waterfront hand in hand with your loved one. There are tons of restaurants and cafes to stop by, in, and around the waterfront neighborhood.
Another option is to opt for a private food tour at the hip and happening Distillery District. A visit to the Casa Loma, the iconic Victorian Castle will leave you spellbound. Spend a few hours here exploring the castle rooms, its cellar, and the gardens. These areas are perfect photo locations for couples in the city.
For a romantic Toronto itinerary idea head to the CN Tower’s revolving restaurant for dinner – highly recommend it!
Manitoulin Island
Contributed by Lotte from Phenomenal Globe Travel
Manitoulin Island is the largest freshwater island in the world and a great place to visit on a romantic road trip from Toronto. This wonderful getaway in Northern Ontario offers excellent dining opportunities, romantic sunsets, pretty villages, and much more. You can rent a cute cottage and tempting as it may be to spend your entire romantic weekend cuddled up before the fireplace or on the deck, that would be a waste as Manitoulin Island begs to be explored.
Visit the adorable town of Gore Bay, with a lovely harbourfront and its enormous Adirondack red chair for a fun (honeymoon) photoshoot. Outdoor enthusiasts should definitely hike the Cup and Saucer Trail, or if you prefer to stay away from the crowds, one of the many other hiking trails found on Manitoulin Island. The Bridal Veil Falls are also a must-visit.
If you have something special to celebrate on your romantic weekend, definitely make dinner reservations at the Old Schoolhouse in Providence Bay. Housed in an old schoolhouse built in 1898, this fine-dining restaurant is the perfect place for a romantic dinner. Alternatively, you can enjoy excellent fish and chips on Manitoulin Island or sample some Indigenous cuisine.
Ottawa
If when you think romantic, Ottawa isn’t the first Ontario destination to pop into your mind… I don’t blame you.
Canada’s capital, romantic? Actually, yes!
I assure you, there are so many fun things to do as a couple in this city, year round. Whether it’s skating along the canal in the winter time, or taking a food tour exploring the best the city has to eat in the ByWard market, there’s plenty of romance to go around in Ottawa.
Niagara Falls
Contributed by Mayuri from Canada Cross Roads
One of the most romantic destinations in Ontario is the stunning natural heritage site of Niagara Falls. Just admiring the gushing falls and holding unto each other whilst enjoying a journey behind the falls will leave you with memories of a lifetime.
Niagara Falls, on the Canadian side, along with the wine region of the Niagara on the Lake are popular honeymoon destinations in the country. From romantic boat and wine tours to adventurous zip lining and helicopter rides, Niagara has it all.
Enjoy a day picnic at the Niagara observation area, or hop on a horse-drawn carriage ride with your loved one. Prefer to walk? Walk hand in hand or wander the Entertainment district, and at night soak in views of the illuminated falls from the Skylon Tower!
Agawa Canyon
Contributer by Ruma from the Holiday Story
Agawa Canyon is just 430 km away from Ontario. It is surrounded by 4 waterfalls, in the Algoma District of North-eastern Ontario, Canada. North Black Beaver falls, South Black Beaver falls, Bridal veil falls (Longest among the four), Otter creek falls (Shortest among the four).
Agawa Canyon is open all year round. The colour of the leaves changes from late September to early October. It is a major tourist attraction for which thousands of people flock. Also, December to February is the best option if you want to enjoy the view of the snow-capped Agawa Valley. Ice climbing is one of the attractive sports during winter.
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