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SOUTHERN ONTARIO - FREE AND FUN

SOUTHWESTERN ONTARIO

Tour Port Stanley

Port Stanley is a quiet beach city that has plenty to offer for locals and tourists alike. Laze on the beach, check out some of the many shops in the area, or take a ride on the Port Stanley train. While you're here, be sure to check out the famous Mackie's restaurant!

http://www.portstanley.net/explore


 

Discover Sparta

The historic village of Sparta is a quiet town where you can enjoy your afternoon sipping tea at the Sparta Tea House, relaxing at the Holistic Awakenings Spa, or just browsing the art galleries and boutique shops of the area.

Other popular stops include:

  • Quai du Vin Winery

  • Winter Wheat Shop

  • Sparta Country Candles Shop

  • Lavender Farm

 

http://www.villageofsparta.com/

 

Take a Trip to Grand Bend

Grand Bend is the most popular beach in the Southern Ontario area. Filled with watersports, shops, camping areas, outdoor sporting venues, golf, beach activities, and nightlife, Grand Bend has something for everyone.

http://www.grandbend.com/

Take a drive from Long Point to Dover

Long Point and Dover hold a variety of events and festivals throughout the year that attract a large variety of people and crowds. When not hosting a festival, there is still plenty to do. Whether you are interested in beaching, golfing, boating, fishing, shopping, hiking, or biking - the areas between Long Point and Dover have something for every interest.

NIAGARA AND REGION

Photograph the Falls

The Horseshoe Falls are one of the world's most beautiful landmarks and viewing is absolutely free! When visiting the Falls, there is a long walkway with several observation decks that are completely free for everyone. Don't miss out on some amazing photo opportunities!

www.niagarafallstourism.com

Take a Walk Down Clifton Hill

Clifton Hill is Niagara's main strip and hot spot! Just a short walk from the falls, Clifton Hill is full of world famous attractions, dining venues, and entertainment. Here you will find wax museums, restaurants, mini golf courses, indoor playhouses, haunted houses, video arcades, and much more - a must see if you are visiting Niagara Falls!

www.cliftonhill.com/


 

Hike the Niagara Gorge

If you enjoy hiking, the Niagara Gorge is one of the best hikes in the area. The Gorge is a great place to get some exercise and enjoy some scenery at the same time. The Niagara Gorge trail does get quite close to the Falls, so be sure to bring your poncho and camera along with you!

Relax on the Dufferin Islands

All of the hustle and bustle that goes on in Niagara Falls can be quiet tiring. If you need some time to sit back and relax, the Dufferin Islands are the perfect place. The Dufferin Islands incorporate 10 acres of land that are connected by bridges and footpaths. It is the perfect place to have a picnic, take a walk, or just enjoy nature.

http://www.niagaraparks.com/niagara-falls-attractions/niagara-parks-nature-areas.html

Cycle Niagara-on-the-Lake

Ontario is home to many amazing bike paths, but few compare to the trails in and around the Niagara Region. Niagara-on-the-lake is considered one of Ontario's most beautiful cities and it's bike trails are just as scenic!

http://ontariobybike.ca/featured-cycling/item/3-explore-niagara


 

Explore the Bruce Trail

The Bruce Trail is one of Canada's oldest and longest footpaths. The trail itself spans over 890 km and runs from the Niagara Escarpment all the way to Tobemory. You can hike or bike the path to enjoy some of the most scenic and beautiful trails in all of Canada.

brucetrail.org

Watkins Glen State Park

Watkins Glen State Park is yet another scenic walk in the Niagara Region. With over 19 waterfalls along one stream, this park is one that is not to be missed on your visit to the area.

http://nysparks.com/parks/142/details.aspx

WATERLOO AND SURROUNDING AREA

Go Hiking

 

Hamilton and the surrounding area is home to many trails that lead to beautiful geological formations and waterfalls. Popular waterfalls in the area include:

  • Webster's Falls

  • Tiffany Falls

  • Sherman Falls

  • Tews Falls

  • Abion Falls

  • The Devil's Punchbowl

Check out Eramosa Karst

 

One of the newest conservation areas in Hamilton, Eramosa Karst is home to a variety of meadows, streams, forests, and underground caves. Whether you are looking to hike, bike, or just enjoy nature - this is the place to do it!

 

http://www.conservationhamilton.ca/eramosa-karst

The Old German Woolen Mill

 

Located on the Grand River in Dumfries, Ontario, the German Woolen Mill was once a thriving business built by the Pioneers who lived in the area. Today the Old Mill still stands in ruins and is said to be haunted!

 

http://www.hamiltonparanormal.com/german1.html

Shop in St. Jacobs

 

St. Jacob's Farmers Market is one of the most popular markets in Southern Ontario. Each week hundred's of vendors set up to bring fresh foods, crafts, and more!

 

Once you are finished at the Farmers Market, check out the surrounding village of St. Jacobs. Whether you are into brand name clothing or antiques, St. Jacob's has plenty of stores and boutique shops to browse through.

 

http://www.stjacobs.com/farmers-market

Visit Guelph's Market Square

 

Guelph's Market Square is the perfect place to go for a day out with girlfriends or with the family. A scenic district in Guelph, Market Square has plenty of shops, stores, boutiques, and restaurants to browse. Plenty of celebrations and events also take place in Market Square so be sure to keep your eye on the calender!

 

http://www.stjacobs.com/farmers-market

Go Caving

 

The Bruce Peninsula is one of the most beautiful areas in all of Ontario! And the best part? Some of the most exciting adventures come absolutely free! The Bruce Peninsula offers plenty of opportunities for free roam caving. If this strikes your interest, be sure to check out Greigs Caves or/and the Bruce Caves. 

 

http://www.thebrucepeninsula.com/get-outdoors/land/caving-climbing.html

 

 

Mono Cliffs Provincial Park

 

Located on the Bruce Trail, the Mono Cliffs Provincial Park has a variety of hiking trails, plus canyons, cliffs, and gorgeous views.

 

http://www.ontarioparks.com/park/monocliffs

The Elora Gorge and Elora Quarry

 

The Elora Gorge has a variety of pathways and overlooks that provide hikers with scenic views of the Grand River. At the center of the Conservation area is the Elora Quarry. Surrounded by cliffs, the Elora Quarry is a popular place for swimmers and hikers alike.

 

http://www.grandriver.ca/index/document.cfm?Sec=27&Sub1=125&Sub2=0

BRUCE PENINSULA AND AREA

The Grotto

 

The Grotto is a large cave located on the shores of the Bruce Peninsula. It was created naturally over thousands of years as waves crashed into the rocks. Surrounded by stunning clear blue waters, the Grotto is a must see in the Bruce Peninsula and is an excellent place for exploring and scuba diving.

 

http://www.explorethebruce.com/the-grotto.php

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