This itinerary is perfect for families who want a mix of outdoor adventure, farm fun, incredible eats and charming stays. From berry picking in Abbotsford to winery hopping in Penticton, here’s how to plan an epic 7 to 10-day BC road trip you’ll never forget.

Where to Fly Into?

For this itinerary, you’ll want to fly into Vancouver (YVR) and rent a car. It’s the perfect launch point for exploring the Fraser Valley and beyond. You’ll end your trip in Kelowna, so plan to fly out of there (YLW) — this way, you’re not doubling back. We are big fans of one way road trips over here- not just for the kids sake but also for ours!

What airline did we fly with?
We flew with Porter Airlines which now flies directly from Hamilton to Vancouver and from Toronto to Kelowna , making this western Canada road trip super convenient for Ontarians! If you live downtown Toronto they also have direct flights from YYZ to Vancouver!

We did a Porter Reserve booking on the way there which included free checked bags, unlimited meals, snacks and cocktails and the seats had extra leg room. And on the way back, we did their normal fare which still was amazing. All their seats include:

• No middle Seats
• Free Wifi
• Premium Snacks
• Complimentary beer and Wine

I honestly am not sure how I will fly with anyone else moving forward. Our experience was seamless from start to finish! Porter now flies to so many different routes within Canada from the Hamilton Airport and will fly to sunny destinations like Orlando, Puerto Vallarta, Nassau and Fort Lauderdale launching in December! This is huge news if you live in the area.

Stop #1: Abbotsford & Chilliwack (2 nights)

This area is where you will kick off your road trip and it is a very unassuming region of British Columbia that some people might brush off. But I am here to tell you that this area has SO many hidden gems that really “Wow”ed us!

As a family travelling on this road trip, it was not only amazing for the kids but the stops made it equally as fun for us. It was the perfect blend of something for them and something for us- a vibe we love on all of our family trips!

Where to Stay?

Coast Chilliwack Hotel: Right on the water with mountain views — it’s close to everything and super comfy. The rates are reasonable and you can walk into the District 1801 area ( see below)

Hazelnut Inn: If you want something totally unique, this European-inspired inn is straight out of a fairytale (literally!).

Things to do in this Area

Maan Farms – The ultimate kid stop! Think berry picking, petting zoo, playground and even wine for the parents (strawberry!). They had soo many activities and the food was incredible. You can easily spend about 3-4 hours here
Lakeland Flowers – Fields of blooms perfect for running around and grabbing gorgeous family photos. We visited when there was a lavender but the flowers change each month depending on the season
District 1881 – An up-and-coming area with boutiques and cool local shops. This area made me feel like I was transported to Disneyworld or Europe. Just the most impeccable design!

*** It’s important to note that Chilliwack and Abbotsford are about 20 minutes apart so base yourself in one of the two spots and expect to drive***

We felt that 2 nights here was perfect and that we didn’t miss out on anything! If you are into hiking, you could maybe add on another night and do a hike to Lindeman Lake ( think a bright green/blue lake!)

Looking for other Canadian destinations to visit? Check out these posts below:

• Ultimate Weekend Guide to Quebec City: Everything you need to know!
• 5 of the Best Family Vacations in Ontario
• The Best Winter Activities in Ottawa for the Family
• 11 of the Best Wineries in Niagara on the Lake
• Ontario Romantic Getaways: 5 Places to bookmark

Where to Eat in this Area

I was shocked by the number of cool eateries in the region. Between breweries, coffee shops and trendy restaurants, it made it hard for us to pick where to go. We actually ended up eating more than expected because we just wanted to check so many places out!

• Hugo’s Mexican Kitchen ( Amazing Mexican place. They started as a Churro stand and just exploded in the BC area. Amazing tacos and vibe!)
• The Pastry Portal ( this place sells out regularly and for good reason. Loved the owner too!)
• Smoking Gun Coffee ( We admittedly went here far too often. We also want our future house to look like the interior of this place)
• Farmhouse Brewing ( This is a place that should be in every city. It’s a brewery serving up fresh pizzas with it’s OWN PLAYGROUND for kids. Its the coolest)
• Single Tree Winery ( Step away from the city and into the most serene setting where you feel like you are in Napa!)
• Field House Brewing ( With a location in Abbotsford and Chilliwack, this is a great stop for a local brew and a bite! We did their brunch and it did not disappoint)

Stop #2: Othello Tunnels (Quick Pit Stop)

As you start to head north, break up your drive with a leg stretch at the Othello Tunnels near Hope. These old railway tunnels cut through massive rock canyons — it’s an easy walk with kids and absolutely breathtaking.

• Parking is free
• The path is stroller and bike friendly
• The entire hike only takes about one hour round trip including time for stopping and pictures.
• Bring a mini flash light or make sure your phone flash light is working for the tunnel portion of the hike
• We got there at 9am and it was really quiet. This is what we especially loved about this hike- no crowds!

Stop #3: Kamloops (Quick Stop OR if you want to add an overnight here you can)

Kamloops is a perfect mid-way spot. You can stretch your legs, fill your bellies and get in a short adventure. You can definitely spend a night here if you want to add on some time to your trip. There are also a ton of wineries in the region too. Kamloops felt like the desert region of Canada and also made me feel like I was in Palm Springs at the same time

Where to Eat

• Hello Toast – Cozy brunch spot with killer bennies.
• Amplified Coffee– Coolest space and 10/10 coffee. They are open really early was awesome for our early morning road trip stop from Sun Peaks down to Vernon
• Bright Eye Brewing – Great beer, even better pizza. We stopped here for lunch en route to Sun peaks and it was amazing!

Quick Hike

Peterson Creek Park – A short trail with views over the city and a little waterfall. Perfect to let the kids run wild before getting back in the car.

Stop #4: Sun Peaks

Your next base is the alpine village of Sun Peaks, about 45 minutes from Kamloops.
This place is a family paradise in the summer with Jeep tours, paddle boarding on Heffley Lake, hiking, and fun events in the village.

I am keeping this one short because I have a full Sun Peaks guide on the blog if you want more ideas!

Stop #5: Vernon, British Columbia ( Quick Stop En Route)

On your way down to the Okanagan, pop into Vernon.

• Davison Orchards – Farm playgrounds, tractor tours and fresh pie. The place also looks like a movie set from a Western film!
• Kangaroo Creek Farm – Snuggle baby kangaroos, capybaras and more. Your kids will lose their minds. We went at 10AM when it opened and it was not busy but when we left- it was a zoo ( pun intended). Get there early to avoid the crowds! Tickets are $30.00 for adults, kids are $15.00 and kids under 4 are free!

Stop #6: Kelowna, British Columbia ( Quick Stop En Route)

If we weren’t going to base ourselves in Penticton ( see below), we would have based ourselves here! Kelowna is actually quite

You can’t do an Okanagan road trip without some wineries.

• Quails’ Gate ( we did a tasting here and it was beautiful! The onsite market is also great for a quick pizza in their garden)
• Mission Hill ( Considered one of the best wineries in the area)
• Frind Winery ( Canada’s only lakefront winery!)

Stop #7: Penticton, British Columbia ( 2-3 Nights)

Where to Eat

• Kin & Folk – Modern Asian Fusion. Every dish and drink was 10/10. 4.7 Google Rating for a good reason!
• Wayne & Freda – Best brunch & coffee in town. We came here 3 times lol
• Cannery Brewing– an OG place and it shows! Hand crafted beers in an amazing space RIGHT in town. We loved their patio and BBQ menu and the staff was so knowledgeable!
• Abandoned Rail Brewing –- A laid back brewery that is so peaceful and serene. They had an amazing little play area for kids too with cider slushies!
• Poplar Grove – This might be one of the nicest wineries we have ever visited. The most insane views, delisih reds and
• Frog City Café – A lunch cafe surrounded by nature. We felt like we were in a tropical forest and the good reflected this vibe with organic sandwiches, salads and elixirs.

Where to Stay:

Kettle Beach Resort – A charming spot right on across from the beach and cose to the action. The rooms have full fridges and little kitchenettes perfect for having breakfasts and lots of snacks for the kiddos. Would definitely stay here again!

Activities to do with the Kids:

• LocoLanding Adventure Park – Mini golf, climbing, go-karts. Your kids will beg to come back.
• Gotta Goat Farm – Yes, you can snuggle goats.
• Linden Gardens – Beautiful gardens with space to wander.
• Marine Heritage Museum– An historic steamboat that has been converted into a museum right on the water!

We broke up our time here as follows:

Day 1: Beach time in the morning then an afternoon at Poplar Grove and Abandoned Rail Brewing. These are a 5 minute drive together. We did dinner that night at Kin and Folk

Day 2: We did Gotta Goat Farm in the morning, followed by lunch at Frog City Cafe and then a stroll and viewing of Linden Gardens. We ate dinner that night at Cannery Brewing

Day 3: We had a morning at Locco Landing Adventure and spent the rest of the afternoon at the beach. For dinner we went to Elma!

If we had more time…

You truly could spend a good 2 weeks road tripping through this area of British Columbia and if we had another 2-4 days, we would have added the following spots to our itinerary ( which came highly recommended)

• Oliver ( a little town that has a WINE VILLAGE aka a bunch of little mini stores and tasting rooms all in a little village)
• Osoyoos ( considered a spiritual spot right on the most southern tip of the region)
• More time in Kelowna….

Whether you’re sipping wine overlooking vineyards, chasing your kids through sunflower fields, or hiking through ancient tunnels, a British Columbia road trip is the perfect way to make family memories that will last a lifetime. We couldn’t recommend this route more!

This region has been a tourist destination since 1850 and is rich in heritage, nature, cuisine and activities! Seriously it is impossible to get bored here.

We visited for the first time this past summer and found it to be the perfect escape for a family ( we are already planning our next visit). While summer was stunning, it is a 4 seasons destination with things to do year round and specialty offerings in each month. 

How to get to Bromont, Quebec?

By Car

• From Montreal: Bromont is about 85 kilometers (53 miles) east of Montreal. Take Autoroute 10 (A-10) eastbound, and then exit at Bromont (Exit 74). Follow the signs to the town.
• From Toronto: 7 hours!
• From Boston: 4 hours!

We drove by car in a Mitsubishi Outlander Hybrid model (pictured above) and it was just a smooth drive from Toronto. We saved on gas by having the electric option and loved the space within.  If you are a family who loves to adventure, you should check it out. 

By Air

• Airport: The nearest major airport is Montréal-Pierre Elliott Trudeau International Airport (YUL) in Montreal. From there, you can rent a car or take a bus to Bromont.

Things to do in Bromont Quebec

Visit one of the many Micro breweries

This area is home to over 30 microbreweries so if you love craft beer you will be super happy about the regions offerings!

Many of them are located in the Brasseurs des Canton area but we hit up a few in Bromont and loved them!

Our favourite one? Robin Biere Naturelle! (pictured above).

This spot not only had a tap room, patio, delicious snack menu but it also had an amazing little set up for kids. It’s a perfect brewery to check out if you are travelling with kids!

Looking for other Canadian travel ideas? Check out these posts below:

• Ultimate Weekend Guide to Quebec City: Everything you need to know!
• 5 of the Best Family Vacations in Ontario
• The Best Winter Activities in Ottawa for the Family
• 11 of the Best Wineries in Niagara on the Lake
• Ontario Romantic Getaways: 5 Places to bookmark

Hiking

Hiking is one of the most popular attractions in Bromont as it’s home to four national parks and two regional parks all of which have a ton of trails to explore.

There are so many hikes ( over 800 miles to be exact) that lead you to incredible summit points and you can make a full day out of hiking if you wanted to! You can’t miss one of the highest peaks in Quebec called Mont Gosford which is located in this region.
We were visiting with the kids so kept the hikes relatively short but that is what is so nice about the area- they have a variety of different trails to visit.

We particularly loved the Parc de Somments which is a great family friendly option with various trails and routes.

Cycling

The Eastern Townships is recognized as a cycling destination. There are more than 20 bike trails and over 1200 miles of backroads so you can bike the entire time you are there if you wanted and never get bored. The region is home to a dozen mountain biking venues and it hosts numerous cycling events

Specific Cycling Activities you can’t miss:

• Bromont National Cycling Centre: Home to 30 pump tracks (both indoor and outdoor), bike camps for kids and an indoor bike tracks ( one which is an Olympic velodrome structure). It is a spot for adventurous kids, seasoned cyclists and everyone in between! This is also a great spot if it’s rainy as the building itself is worth discovering.
• VéloVolant: An activity for those who like a thrill! This biking activity has you pedaling in the air across the treetops!

Activities for Kids in Bromont, Quebec

If you are looking for family adventures, Bromont and the Eastern Townships have all sorts of things on the menu! My kids are still talking about their time there. The activities are a blend of outdoor and nature filled, educational and really just wholesome for the entire family. I have rounded up some of our favourite ones that we did! Keep in mind that we visited in Summer so winter activities would look a little different.

Verger Champêtre

This expansion property has it all! Verger Champetre is filled with donkeys, baby goats, alpacas, and miniature horses (!!) for you to get up close and personal with. You can frolic with the animals through their walking trails and apple orchard and enjoy some of their baked items and juices that is all harvested on property! The owners are SO nice and really have put their heart and soul into every element of the farm.

Bromont, Montagne d’ Experiences

Get wet and cool down with an assortment of waterslides at this amazing waterpark in Bromont!

Not only does it have waterslides but it has a massive wave pool, disco golf, splash pads, games and even mountain tobogganing. It was good for both of our kids ( aged 3 and 5) and had different draws for each of them!

I personally loved the mountain tobogganing the most and the cherry on top was all the yummy eats on the grounds. Between the Churro truck, sit down restaurant and poutine stands , we did not leave hungry.

Feeling in winter? This turns into their Ski hub with hills, chalets and all the fixings! Plus a new hotel is slated to open in the next year or so right on the property!

P’Tit Monde des Grandes

This interactive museum designed specifically for young children is one of the most unique ones we have visited! Kids can dive into their dreams and pretend to take part in various role playing such as being a police officer, pilot ( they have a real plane!), restaurant owner, actress or singer ( they have a stage with music and costume area) and a whole construction zone. The detailed play zones blew our minds and we had to quite literally drag our kids out of there!

Adults- $10.00 and Kids – $24.00

Some other activities in Bromont for kids:

• Granby Zoo ( over 150 animals to discover!)
• Ranch Windslow
• Musee du Chocolat de la Confiserie Bromont ( Chocolate and Museum shop!)
• Bleu Lavande (stunning lavender fields you can walk through!)

Spas in Bromont

Cue the relaxation music because Bromont Quebec is home to some of the best spas in the country. With all of the beautiful landscapes as it’s backdrop it’s no surprise that that this would be the case.

The surroundings itself have you tapping deep into nature which makes you feel relaxed and then adding in a treatment, some thermal circuits and stunning facilities and you have yourself the perfect zen day.

I am rounding up some of the best spas in Bromont Quebec for you to visit during your day!

Balnea Spa- This is the spa that I personally visited and still have been dreaming of since I returned home. It is one of the most renowned spas in the country. It has an infinity pool that offers sweeping views of Lake Gale, private dock access and so many inviting spaces to unwind ( they have a movie room, Moroccan themed room, aquatic themed space and more). The thermal circuits had me moving from space to space and it was very easy to spend the day here doing just this. They have an onsite restaurant as well if you wish to grab a bite and spend the entire day spa’ing!

Spa du Manoir: Situated at the Manoir des Sables, this spa offers a variety of treatments in a serene environment. It’s a bit further out, but worth considering if you’re looking for a more extensive wellness experience.

Spa des Neiges: Located near the Bromont ski resort, this spa provides a cozy and relaxing atmosphere with various treatment options. It’s a great choice if you’re looking to relax after hitting the slopes.

Restaurants in Bromont Quebec

Babar

Babar is one of the coolest restaurants in Bromont Quebec…and maybe one of the coolest restaurants I have been to all year. It features modern middle eastern cuisine, an innovative cocktail list and a sleek and sharp interior ( design goals). Even though it’s very hip and modern, it also feels warm and inviting at the same time.

Bromount Microbrasserie

If you are looking for a family friendly restaurant that still feels cozy and has a good ambience, check out Bromount Microbrasserie! We loved their patio that was lined with trees and string lights and their portion sizes were very generous! Do NOT miss out on the ribs. Yum!

It’s also conveniently located in the center of town making it a perfect spot to come to post cycling or skiing in the winter

Pittnik

Right in the center of town, Pittnik is a great lunch option for those doing some cycling through town or for those driving between a few of the townships. Their gourmet sandwiches and house made poke bowls paired well with some of their organic and local sparkling water. We munched on some bites on their outdoor picnic tables which made the whole experience even sweeter.

C’est Belge

C’est Belge IS what breakfast and brunch dreams are made of. Their eggs benny focused menu made from exceptional local and organic products will have you wanting to move to the area. They do also have a variety of lunch items if you are looking for some lighter or non breakfast items but trust me on the eggs benny!

Café de la Brûlerie

The Café de la Brûlerie is a beautiful bistro right on the water that also doubles as a coffee house. It is a Granby icon and is known for its warm and welcoming patio, top quality coffee means and extensive menu that has something for everyone!

Hotels in Bromont Quebec: Where to Stay?

Beatnik Hotel

The Beatnik hotel was my design dream. I truly hope my house looks like this hotel one day! From mid century pieces to pops of eclectic accents, it was such a cool and unique place to hang our hat for a few days! The rooms are no frills and are basic but the surroundings are something special. They have daily breakfast, an onsite pool, fire pits and the most inviting hammock set up on their grounds.

Domaine Château Bromont

This upscale option offers beautiful views of the surrounding mountains and has great amenities like an outdoor pool and a spa. It’s also conveniently located near the ski slopes. It has 166 plush rooms, an outdoor hot rub overlooking the mountains and even a thermal circuit!

Camping des Somments

For a more rustic experience, this campground offers a chance to stay closer to nature. Pitch a tent or park an RV at this beautiful campground that is filled with adventure ( and a pool!). You are a stone throws away from hiking, golf courses and the downtown core yet it’s so peaceful and quiet.

Bromont, Quebec and the Eastern townships is one of the most distinct and stunning regions in Canada. Full stop. There are so many things to do in Bromont in both summer and winter and I hope this travel guide to the area gave you a few ideas- though I know there is still A LOT more in addition to what I listed here. I guess it’s time for me to go back soon…

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While there are many amazing Christmas markets in other parts of the world ( aheem Europe), there are more and more popping up right here in Ontario! Basically every town in Ontario has started to plan for more Christmas themed markets and events and I am here for it.

While there are a few traditional Christmas Markets in Ontario, there are a TON of events that are themed around Christmas and offer up the same kind of vibes! 

I have rounded up my favourite Ontario Christmas Markets below: everywhere from the big cities like Toronto and Niagara Falls to smaller and more intimate towns like Perth and St Jacobs. There is something for everyone! 

The Best Christmas Markets in Ontario

Niemi Family Farm Christmas Market aka the cutest Christmas Market in Ontario

When I first saw a photo of this place, it immediately made me stop scrolling. WHERE IS THIS PLACE? IS THIS WHERE SANTA ACTUALLY LIVES?

There was something so unique about it- like you couldn’t manufacture it. It looked like it almost could be in the North Pole. I was shocked to find out it was only 1 hour from Toronto…yet it looked worlds away.

Neimi’s Christmas Market is the real deal! They have everything set up in a remote location surrounded by evergreens and lights, there are Christmas train rides on site and the best baked items you can dream of to purchase. If I can recommend on Ontario Christmas Market, this would be it!

St. Jacobs Ontario- The Best Christmas Town in Ontario

St Jacob’s at Christmas time literally transports you directly into a Hallmark movie. They have several weekends that are Christmas themed like “Sparkle” which is a holiday themed shopping weekend where stores are open late, vendors are on the streets offering people drinks and carollers are serenading you as you take in the village.

They also have an old school “Christmas train” which looks like the Polar Express that runs every weekend during the holidays. If you have kids, you NEED to get tickets to this. The train ride is about an hour and takes you to the “North Pole”. They have elf’s on board, Mrs Clause…and even the grinch for those who aren’t listening their best! haha

Check out my full guide on visiting St. Jacobs at Christmas time

Ottawa Christmas Market

Located at Lansdowne Park in Canada’s capital, the Ottawa Christmas market offers a mix of local artisans, food vendors, and holiday activities. The market features the traditional wooden stalls that are lined up throughout the streets making it one of the most authentic Christmas Markets in Ontario!

Also called the Marche de Noel, Ottawa’s Christmas market has gotten quite big over the years. Last season , we visited Ottawa during this time and we fell in love with the city ( it was our first time there). We couldn’t believe that in addition to the market they also have a ton of other festive events throughout the months. Every corner is basically Christmas central. I rounded up 9+ Winter Activities To Do in Ottawa if you want to check it out!

Here are some other Holiday and Winter Posts You Might Like:

• 10 Things To Do in Quebec at Christmas Time
• The Best Romantic Getaways in Ontario
• 5 Of The Best Christmas Markets around the world
• 1 Day Itinerary for Quebec at Christmas Time
• 13 Magical Things To Do in Ontario In Winter

Kingston Holiday Market

Kingston, Ontario was a city we had the chance to visit earlier this year and it blew us away!

The city is exploding with restaurants and cool events and we loved discovering all it had to offer. There are a TON of limestone buildings and old Victorian houses that line each street which also make it a very picturesque town in general but add in holiday decor on these buildings and WOW!

The Kingston Holiday Market is a great Ontario Christmas Market to visit and should be added to your list. I feel like it’s the right scale -not too big but not too small. Plus the skating rink in the center of town makes for a great activity to do after visiting all of the vendors! While this is market we visited, there are literally different festive events each weekend in town!

Read my full guide to 9 Of The Best Restaurants in Kingston, Ontario

Niagara on the Lake- Ontario Christmas Event for Kids

One of our favourite Christmas traditions to do with the kids is to head to Niagara on the Lake for their annual Candle light walk night. We get bundled up and walk down the charming main street which looks stunning any time of the year but is especially cute during the festive season. All the storefronts are decked up and we all walk together with candles down towards “Santa’s Mailbox”.

There is a designated special mailbox on Queen Street- just outside the Court House by the entrance of the Niagara on the Lake Commerce office. Our kiddos absolutely love it and it’s so special!

The walk takes place on the first Friday of December every year!

TIP: Visit the Pillar and Post after or Prince of Wales for dinner if you are looking for an amazing ambience and holiday feel

Mississauga Christmas Event- Tunnel of Lights!

Mississauga has become a little Toronto- it is bustling at the seams with new restaurants and things to do these days! I love it because I can get my big city fix much closer than having to go right into Toronto!

Mississauga does Christmas WELL my friends and they have so many different events happening throughout the holiday season.

My favourite event though? The Journey Into Enchantment which is a one of a kind immerservie experience where you can drive through tunnels of lights where you are transported into another world. The lights are sequeneced with popular Christmas tunes and there are holiday characters to see along the way! The entire drive is about 45 minutes!

If you have kids, I like this since they can stay warm in the car ( and won’t get tired from walking!)

Casa Loma Christmas Event in Toronto

Casa Loma is one of the most historic landmarks in Toronto! This old castle is now an event venue and while it hosts private and social events, it also has some ticketed public events throughout the year!

Visiting their annual Christmas event is not only fun but it’s an opportunity to see Casa Loma itself!

The ticketed Christmas event is one of the more pricier ones but it offers SO much for the price. There are aerial performers, Christmas characters showing up at different times, professional skating performances ( inside the space!), light displays, holiday decorations and even a trail leading to the “North Pole” where you can meet the Big Guy and Mrs. Clause!

Each room is beautifully decorated and there is an outside sitting area with warmers! Only con of this experience that I would like to make note of is that the food options were a bit limited. If going with kids, pack a lot of snacks!!

Royal Botanical Gardens- A Christmas Market in Burlington

Royal Botanical Gardens “Winter Wonders” Event is a Christmas Market that is sprawled through all of their grounds. You start in their indoor green house which has live music going, a bar offering up ciders and mulled wines and cute decorations. It sets the tone for the rest of the evening and we loved getting a drink in there.

From there, you make your way outdoors into their gardens which is decked in lights and festive fun. If you have kids, there is even a little wooden train that they can check out ( it is only operable on certain days so make sure to check that out ahead of time if you do want to ride the train).

Within the trails, there are snow globes that have displays within, little trailers with food vendors and music being played in speakers along the trail. We had SO much fun!

Some tips if you are visiting here:

-Bundle up as once you are outside there are not too many warming areas throughout

-Bring a stroller or wagon if you have kids. It’s a longer trail and it’s so much more enjoyable if they are rested and not using up all of their energy

-Allocate about 1.5 hours to walk the trail so you can fully take in all the amazing things they have!

Christmas Market in Kitchener aka Christkindl Market

Very close to the town of St. Jacobs is the city of Kitchener! Kitchener, Ontario puts on a fabulous Christmas Market…and it’s German themed ( which for me makes me feel like I am in Europe). There are tons of craft beer stands, Christmas Carolers on the streets, and delicious food options ( Schnitzels and sausages to be exact!).

The entire little street is transformed into a mini market and it’s one for the books! I would definitely look into doing the Christkindl Market, and St Jacobs together ( St Jacobs during the day and then Kitchener at night perhaps!).

Niagara Festival of Lights

Alright, well Niagara doesn’t have a traditional Christmas market like Toronto does but it has it’s annual Festival of Lights event which is a stunning display of lights and exhibitions ( I’m talking over 3 million lights!). They have a walking path to take in all of the light displays so it’s a great activity to do with kids if you are looking to burn some energy off!

The falls itself also lights up in festive colours and they have their nightly fireworks display to add a little more sparkle to this special time of year!

The festival falls between November- January so there is plenty of time to visit ( we always like going between Christmas and NYE!)

[tp_hotels_selections_discount_shortcodes type_selections=”tophotels” city=”21345″ number_results=”5″]

Perth Ontario Christmas Events

While Perth, Ontario doesn’t have one large Christmas Market, they have a series of festive events throughout the months of November and December! Pair that with Perth being one of the most adorable towns and you got yourself a great reason to visit during the holidays! Make sure to visit their German themed restaurant called Maximilian for the ultimate Schnitzel

I would recommend doing an Ontario Christmas market tour around this area making stops in Perth, Ottawa and Kingston! It would make for the perfect Ontario road trip and allow you to see a big city version of Christmas ( Ottawa), a medium size one ( Kingston) and a small one (Perth).

ANOTHER TIP: Stop at the neighbouring town of Merrickville for some more Christmas fun! It’s only 20 minutes away from Perth!

Toronto Christmas Market

The Toronto Christmas Market in the Distillery District is the OG of Christmas Markets. It was one of the first Christmas Markets in Ontario and it got popular real quick! We went the first year it opened and it was so cute and perfect that we came back every year!

While I still love the Toronto Christmas Market, I feel like it lost it’s special charm the last year or two strictly because it IS that popular. It gets really crowded and you need to be a bit strategic about when you visit. We went last year and it was almost too packed that we didn’t enjoy it! Just keep that in mind before visiting.

Now before I sound like a hater, it needs to be said that the Toronto Christmas Market is still one of the biggest and most unique Ontario Christmas Markets. With the cobblestone streets of the Distillery District and one of the largest light up Christmas Tree’s- it is a showstopper of a place!

WinterFest- Canada’s Wonderland’s Take on an Ontario Christmas Market

Canada’s Wonderland aka one of the top theme parks in Canada has started to do themed events for every special holiday ( Halloween, Christmas, Easter etc) Located in Vaughn, Canada’s Wonderland’s Winterfest is a perfect spot for both adults and kids.

They have craft beer tents and mulled wine for the parents/adults and cute little holiday performances, cookie decorating and even some rides open for the kiddos! As of last year, they even added a skating rink!

Christmas Market at Friday Harbour

Friday Harbour, located in Innisfil, is a building community that puts on an inviting Christmas Market. While their complexes cannot be rented like a hotel, the Christmas Market they put on can be attended by anyone in the community.

It definitely gives off the European vibes with their cute wooden market stands that are decorated with garlands and trees. They also have the opportunity to meet Santa on select dates, hot chocolate stations, warming puts and even skating!

Head North and make sure you visit this adorable little stop over the festive season!

I hope you enjoyed my round up of Ontario Christmas Markets and that you get the chance to visit some this upcoming holiday season!

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It also has the most restaurants and bars per capita in Canada than any other city in our country! Can you believe it? I was a bit shocked by this at first and didn’t know this fun fact! 

After spending a weekend in this remarkable city, you can definitely see this to be true. Every street we walked down we spotted a cute place that we wanted to check out or were tempted to visit! 

There are top notch coffee shops on every corner, fresh bakeries that line the streets and some really trendy dinner spots that are perfect for date nights or a night out with friends.  There are so many great restaurants across the city, some of the best restaurants in Kingston are mainly in the downtown area so you can easily walk to them from where you are staying! And after all the food we ate, it was nice to walk it off haha!

Here are the Best Restaurants in Kingston Ontario

#1. Juniper Cafe

Highlights include the best and most mouth watering pastries we have had in a while and the prettiest yogurt bowl I have ever laid eyes on. If breakfast isn’t your thing they also have a killer lunch menu with the option to have wine or a craft brew as well!

A lot of their menu is locally sourced and made in house which always makes me like a place more! There are two locations in town- one in the Tett Centre for Creativity and Learning (stunning location by the water) and the other location is in the west end!

#2. Black Dog Tavern

This Kingston Ontario restaurant has been around for 20 years so you know it’s a good one! Black Dog Tavern should be on everyone’s list for a place to experience when in town! It was for sure my favourite dinner spot we visited for overall food, ambience and service.

Black Dog Tavern is located in a historic building and offers classics like steak and frites, oysters and burgers but has a modern and upscale twist to it all. We loved the ambience inside and if we came back without the kids, we would for sure have sat around the cozy and happening bar for a meal! What a vibe!

You Might Like These Other Ontario Posts:

• Winter Activities in Ottawa, Ontario That You Must Do!
• 13 Magical Things To Do in Ontario This Winter
• Complete Travel Guide to Perth, Ontario
• 9 Of The Best Restaurants in Jordan, Ontario aka Niagara Wine Region!

#3. Baja Craft Kitchen

If you are looking for a hip place for Mexican and Margaritas, you need to visit Baja Craft Kitchen!

Tucked away down an unassuming alleyway, the restaurant is a gem. Once you enter the door you walk through a hallway of colorful umbrellas ( Instagram lovers this is for you) which eventually leads you to the restaurant itself.

I absolutely loved our lunch there- we split their Avocado Fries and had a few Quesabirria tacos. Both were 10/10! I imagine that the night time vibes would be even cooler as they had neon lights on some of the walls and an epic bar which was the focal point of the space that was filled with tons of different tequila brands.

#4. Northside Espresso + Kitchen

If you are serious about coffee, you need to visit Northside Espresso.

Inspired by the Australian city of Melbourne ( a city with a big coffee scene), Northside Espresso feels like you are transported down under.

It has an airy, bright and earthy atmosphere ( so many tropical plants!) and overall feels like a place that you can hang out in all day long. Along with serving up lattes, matchas, drip coffees and americanos, it features mouth watering classic Australian breakfast items ( I have been told the Avo Toast is one for the books!)

#5. Harper’s Burger Bar- One of the best restaurants in Kingston for gourmet burgers!

Harper’s Burger Bar is one cool spot! So cool that it was even featured on The Food Network’s “You Gotta Eat Here”

The menu has over 50 different burger combinations, sides, dressings- you name it, the menu has it! It also has SO many fun shakes for the kids making it a great spot to go with the family.

We decided on a Unami Burger ( the beef is family farmed and sustainably raised too FYI) and customized ours with a Gluten Free bun which is not always easy to find!

#6. Atomica Kitchen -The best restaurant in Kingston for Italian!

Atomica Kitchen + Cocktails is one of those places that would suit anyone’s style! We came as a family with the kids but we saw a 30th birthday taking place there, a mother/son duo on a night out and 2 couples enjoying a fun dinner together!

While the atmosphere is inviting with it’s exposed brick, on site pizza oven and booths that line the walls, the food is what really delivers here! They have everything from homemade pizza, pasta and even some unique items like gourmet bao buns! My favourite dish though was their Chicken Parmesan paired with a classic Italian Negroni….*chef’s kiss*

#7. Chez Piggy

If you are looking for more of a fine dining experience in town, this Kingston Ontario restaurant is for you!

Chez Piggy was started back in 1979 and has not stopped elevating itself ever since! Set up in a renovated limestone original building, it is ever so inviting, unique and has menu offerings for brunch, lunch and dinner.

Chez Piggy also has an expansive and well thought out craft cocktail list which shouldn’t be missed

#8. Daft Brewing- Best Brewery in Kingston, Ontario

Kingston Ontario is home to a few good breweries but Daft Brewing is the most colorful and according to them “the weirdest”. Seems like the perfect combo to me!

What I particularly loved about Daft Brewing is that in addition to a phenomenal beer menu, they have a pretty awesome food selection. Some breweries I have visited in the past only offer tiny bites like chips or nuts. At Daft, they have everything from charcuterie to grilled cheeses, gourmet sandwiches and nachos!

#9. Sens Cafe

This is one of the best Kingston restaurants by the waterfront and it is in a stunning limestone building to boot! The place looks so inviting from the outside that you almost have no choice but to walk in!

Sens Cafe serves up fresh coffee ( they have a serious coffee and tea menu), fresh pastries and some more savory breakfast items. The owners have opened previous cafes in France so they know a thing or two about doing the cafe thing. Do not miss this spot!

The Best Restaurants in Kingston Ontario: Continued List!

• Score Pizza– This is the spot for a quick gourmet pizza on the go! You can choose all the toppings you want, customize the size of it and then watch it bake in the on site pizza oven!
• Dianne’s Fish Shack– This restaurant on the corner of Ontario street features all of the fish tacos your heart can imagine. This place would be very cute and perfect for a summer afternoon especially since they have the best margaritas in town!
• Mio Gelato- Mio Gelato is like an institution in Kingston and whenever we asked some locals where to eat the first place they mentioned visiting was Mio Gelato! The gelato is really as good as what you find in Italy!

Looking for more Kingston Ontario Restaurant Finds?

From family fun, to relaxation, a culinary adventure and everything in between, there’s an accommodation package for every type of trip. Keep up to date on all offerings that are available throughout the year HERE. Hotels within the city of Kingston often have some great promotions making it very easy to stay for the weekend, explore and eat your way through the city!

Kingston also has its annual Kingstonlicious program, which typically runs through the months of January-March. This is an award-winning program where restaurants feature specialty pre-fixe menus and unique signature events showcase the local culinary scene. It’s not to be missed!

I hope you enjoyed my list of the best 9 Restaurants in Kingston and I hope you end up making your way to this beautiful city!! I can’t wait to visit again in the summer when the patios are in full force and we get to experience some of the restaurant’s summer menus.

Have any questions about some of the Best restaurants in Kingston? Feel free to Email me or DM me on Instagram

THE BEST RESTAURANTS IN KINGSTON ONTARIO: PIN THIS POST

Known for its picturesque beauty, historic charm, and vibrant community, Merrickville offers a variety of attractions and activities for visitors.

Where is Merrickville Ontario located exactly?

Merrickville is located in eastern Ontario, Canada and includes the surrounding rural area of Wolford,. It is situated along the Rideau Canal, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and is part of the United Counties of Leeds and Grenville.

From Toronto, it is about 5 hours away. From Ottawa, it is only an hour ( making it the perfect weekend getaway) and from Montreal it is just over 2 hours away!

I would recommend pairing Merrickville Ontario with a visit to Perth, 1000 islands, Ottawa or even add on some wineries in Prince Edward County! I would especially recommend visiting during the summer or fall as all these places are super walkable and best explored on foot.

Where to stay in Merrickville Ontario?

Experience Merrickville’s hospitality by staying in one of the many cozy inns or bed and breakfasts. These accommodations often reflect the village’s historic charm.

Maple and Rose- Luxury Accommodation in Merrickville Ontario

We visited Merrickville for a wedding so we were travelling with the whole family plus my in laws. We wanted to stay at a spot where we can all comfortably stay. We stumbled upon Maple and Rose a historic 3 level heritage home from the 1850’s that has been thoughtfully renovated and resorted.

Opening just this year, the house is honestly a dream come true. Their tagline is “Where Luxury meets History” and it couldn’t be more true! With 7 full bedrooms ( equipped with ensuites), you can fill up your time just wandering each room that has it’s own personality and character.

Their yard is beautiful with lots of room for the kids to run around and all the green space makes you feel like you are truly somewhere in the county. Yet somehow Maple and Rose is located only 5 minutes from downtown Merrickville making it even more awesome- so conveniently located!

Here are some features of Maple and Rose Merrickville that make it truly special:

• Wrap Around Pouch ( as if you were in a movie)
• Exquisite Bedding and Linens
• 3 Seasonal Sun Room that is sooo dreamy
• A Entertainment Room with a massive screen, fireplace and couch
• Muskoka Chairs with Firepit
• Personalized Touches EVERYWHERE
• Complimentary Wifi
• Family Set up on the top floor equipped with a small bar kitchen and bunk beds ( if you are travelling with kids)
• Complimentary Coffee + Welcome Wine

Accommodation + Hotels in Merrickville Ontario

Merricklle Ontario-if you haven’t got the jist of it yet- is very small! With that being said, you will NOT find a big hotel chain here. Instead it offers unique properties, b & b’s and inn’s. My kind of place!

The Baldachin Inn

The Baldachin Inn is a historic inn offering elegant rooms and suites, some with views of the Rideau Canal. The inn also features a fine dining restaurant and a cozy pub, providing guests with a complete experience.

1840 Guest House B&B Merrickville

This charming bed and breakfast dates back to 1840 and offers cozy rooms with antique furnishings. Guests can enjoy a home-cooked breakfast and personalized hospitality in a historic setting. My husband actually stayed here on a business trip when he was visiting nearby Smith Falls and had nothing but rave reviews! It’s tucked right into the heart of town

Restaurants in Merrickville Ontario

The Goose and Gridiron

A welcoming pub-style restaurant serving classic Canadian pub fare. The atmosphere is cozy, and it’s a popular spot for locals and visitors alike.

It honestly reminds me of “Cheers” and from what we heard from some locals, it’s one of the most popular spots in town where people often go to meet up with friends.

If you are visiting in the summer, they have an adorable patio that makes you feel like you really are in a pub in England!

The Yellow Canoe Cafe

This cozy café is known for its delicious breakfast and brunch offerings, including freshly baked pastries, sandwiches, soups and excellent coffee. It’s a great spot for a leisurely morning meal.

Their scones with the butter and jams that accompany it are TO DIE FOR and should not be missed.

Make sure to grab a spot when they first open because this place gets packed. They also have an adorable patio.

The Baldachin Inn

Looking to fancy it up a notch? The Baldachin Inn offers an elegant dining experience in a historic setting. The menu features a variety of Canadian dishes prepared with a creative touch. Think: White Linen tablecloths and higher prices!

The Village Bean Coffee House

A laid-back coffee house serving a variety of specialty coffees, teas, and light bites. It’s an ideal spot to relax with a book or catch up on work. It’s cute and cozy and offers great people watching on their front patio!

You can also read all about about my favourite travel essentials for women!

The Best Stores in Merrickville Ontario + Places to Shop!

Though small, the stores in Merrickville were amazing! From aromatherapy and candle stores, to cheese shops, to even a vintage record shop, there was no shortage of places to shop until you drop!

Vinyl Destination

Originally this place got me because I spotted Taylor Swift’s records displayed shelf by shelf. A true swiftie obviously goes right inside and acknowledges her!!

I sure am glad I went in though because the shop was so cool! They had every record you can think of so if you are looking for something unique, you can likely find it here.

Is it just me or does the music sound better when you get to listen to it on a vinyl record?

Vinyl Destination is a place to get groovy and get your hands on something special!

Pickle and Myrrh– Cutest store front in Merrickville Ontario!

Go for the pink door at Pickle and Myrrh and stay for the sea salt caramels. We had some caramels waiting for us when we arrived at our accomadations ( Thanks to our host at Maple and Rose) and I basically could not stop eating them. OMG!

I ended up getting a few packs to take home as “Gifts” haha. I swear! We ended up seeing them in some of the neighboring towns we visited so they are definitely a thing!

Looking to visit some other awesome places in Canada? Check out my other posts below:

• The Ultimate Banff Itinerary
• 14 Places To See Fall Colours in Ontario
• 10 Magical Things To Do in Quebec City At Christmas Time
• Lake Louise, Alberta: The Most Luxurious Place to Stay
• Weekend Itinerary to Quebec City
• Visiting the Iconic Fairmont Banff Springs Resort
• The High Acre Spa in Dundas, Ontario

Wick Witch Apothecary

The Wick Witch is a store that you can get lost inside of. Whether you are into crystals or apothecary or not, it is something that will draw you in! It’s legitimately so cool

The space is beautiful and is located on the best corner in town.

In addition to the crystal selections ( where you can choose gems based on your needs), they have beautiful candles that are made right in the back of the store. I went in planning to get nothing and left with 4 crystals and 6 candles LOL. Oops!

, , , ,

Abel Mountain Merrickville

File under cutest store ever! This place has it all: Women’s clothing ( trendy and modern pieces), adorable home goods and accessories and such a good selection of baby items and toys! You can expect unique brands here and one of a kind pieces. If you are looking to do shopping for a special birthday coming up or for the holidays, this is the place!

Things to do in Merrickville Ontario

Merrickville is best enjoyed by taking in all the stores, restaurants and soaking up the charm that it possesses. We spent 2 days walking on St Lawrence Street and Main taking in the historical architecture and cute small town vibes. Here is a list of some fun things to do in Merrickville to fill up your days above and beyond that!

Make sure to check out these things in Merrickville in addition to all the other fun places I named above:

• Downtowne Ice Cream Shope– cutest ice cream store ever with so many good flavours ( gelato included)! The exterior makes it look like a vintage ice cream shop from the 1950’s and I couldn’t be more obsessed!
• Gray Art Glass Store– almost like a mini art gallery right downtown! So cool!
• Hike the Rideau Trail: There are a few different trails within the area- one longer one that even takes you all the way to Smith Falls considering how eager you are for a good hike!
• Visit Merrickville Blockhouse: See a bit of history at this designated National Historic Site. It was considered an example of the type of blockhouses erected for the defence of the Rideau Canal.
• Mrs. McGarrigle;s Fine Food Shop– Try all their gourmet products, cheeses and especially their specialty mustard items!

Quick Links- My Amazon Travel Favourites

Looking for to do a road trip to Merrickville, Ontario?

• Book a great rental car from Discover Cars
• Find a hotel that suites your budget needs at Booking.com

I hope you enjoyed reading about all the amazing things to do in Merrickville and that you get to experience the charm of this small Ontario town!

I hope to go back in the winter and visit it during the holidays because it reminds me it would be decked out and a cozy place to spend a few days. Pair it with some skating in Ottawa and you have yourself another perfect weekend!

Even though I live closer to the Niagara Wine region and love visiting some Jordan, Ontario restaurants for a quick bite or tasting flight, there is something much cooler about the wineries in Prince Edward County if you ask me! Perhaps because it is filled with a lot of Toronto creatives that traded in the city life for a quieter lifestyle and have created some amazing businesses while doing so OR just because it’s cooler? Whatever the reason is, I am here for it! 

While you can sip wine throughout your entire stay if you wanted to, Prince Edward County is also home to some amazing landmarks like the Sandbanks Provincial Park that has one of the most beautiful beaches in Ontario and the cute town of Picton that has some pretty legendary spots. Whatever your reason for visiting is, stopping at a Prince Edward County winery is a must. 

How do you get to Prince Edward County?

It is very easy to reach the wineries in Prince Edward County! Prince Edward County is one of those spots that is perfectly situated from many directions!

• If you are coming from Ottawa, the drive is only 2 ish hours

• If you are coming from Toronto, the drive is also only 2 ish hours

• If you are coming from Montreal, the drive is a bit longer at almost 4 hours!

With that being said it’s a great place to go to on an Ontario road trip and I would recommend anywhere from 2-4 days there to fully see it all!

Where to Stay in Prince Edward County?

The amount of places to stay in Prince Edward County have sky rocketed over the last few years. So many cool Air BNB’s and new hotel developments have flooded the area ( in a good way) and part of the fun of visiting is choosing a place to hang your hat for the night.

The Royal Picton: Located in downtown Picton, this hotel has been winning awards since the moment it opened: in design, in it’s food quality, in it’s cocktails. Prepare to be swooned. This is where we stayed most recently and it was 10/10 in every way.

Merrill House: Merrill House is a historic property that has been beautifully restored and transformed into an elegant inn. It offers a sophisticated and luxurious experience for guests. Perfect for big groups!

Drake Devonshire: IYKUK…and if you don’t well let me tell you: The Drake Devonshire is one of the coolest properties in not only PEC but maybe even all of Ontario. It opened in the area before it was bustling and everyone followed suite! If you can’t stay there, visit the restaurant! We stayed there when it first opened and we loved it.

The June Motel: The June Motel is another early pioneer to the area and their arrival brought in the masses. Their VERY Instagrammable pink doors and lobby are the cutest things ever and it’s a great place to stay if you are doing a girls trip.

Wander Resort: If you are looking to really take things slow when you visit PEC, consider staying at the Wander Resort. It’s luxe, centered around wellness and relaxation and oh so pretty

Where to eat in Prince Edward County?

Photos are from The Royal Restaurant

In addition to doing wine tours in Prince Edward County, you can also do an unofficial eating tour. There are some incredible restaurants in the county that shouldn’t be missed!

• The Royal Restaurant: We decided to hunker down at The Royal after checking in and we are so glad that we decided to eat on site. The Royal has earned a MICHELIN recognition and after one visit there, you will get the hype around it. Every dish was out of this world, service top knotch and the setting was out of a design magazine. I also would recommend breakfast at The Counter also at the hotel
• Stella’s Eatery: This casual farm to table spot is loved by tourists and locals like. They also do a mean brunch
• Bocado: This restaurant is right in the heart of Picton and serves up seasonal spanish dishes that have created a buzz in the foodie scene.
• La Condesa: If you like Mexican or tacos, this is your spot!

Here are the Best Wineries in Prince Edward County

Now to the wine! I have rounded up some great wineries in the county if you are looking to spend your weekend sipping away on some of the best wines in Canada.

#1. Hinterland Wine Company

Address: 1258 Closson Road RR#1 Hillier, Ontario, K0K 2J0.

Let’s start with the fancy stuff on this list and that is sparkling wine! Hinterland Wine Company is one of the best wineries in Prince Edward County for sparkling wine! It is what it is known for and is their sole focus

They serve up their bubbly in all of the shades- rose, white and even some red bubbly!

The space is beautiful too with indoor and outdoor seating and my favourite part of it was their small Oyster menu! Nothing is better for me than Sparkling and Oysters! I am not sure if this is a constant thing or was a seasonal item they were serving but it was perfect on a hot summer day!

#2. Sandbanks Winery

Address: 17598 Loyalist Pwky (Hwy 33), Wellington, ON K0K 3L0

Sandbanks Winery is an oldie but a goodie. I would say this is one of the OG wineries in Prince Edward County that has been steady and consistent in all of its blends that it produces each year.

Their location is stellar as it’s right on the water and they have a fun and lively atmosphere year round! It’s one of the more popular wineries in PEC so you can expect to always have a bit of a crowd ( in a good way!)

If you don’t get to visit Sandbanks Winery for a tasting, you can likely find some of their wines in A LOT of restaurants in town, in Toronto or at the LCBO ( they have over 16 bottles and blends there!)

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• Brewery Tour! 9 Of the Best Breweries in Hamilton, Ontario
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#3. Karlo Estates

Address: 561 Danforth Rd, Wellington, ON K0K 3L0

Cute setting? Check! Owned by a sweet owner with a very interesting background? Check! One of the early wineries in Prince Edward County? Check, check!

Karlo Estates is one of those places that you can’t not love! The adorable exterior of the spot is matched by an even cuter interior that has velvet Victorian couches, speak easy bar lounge and original fixings still standing ( it was built in 1805!!)

Their wines are some of the best in the area AND they also have a ton of fun events on their line up so it’s a win/win when you visit! PS: Ask someone there about the history there!

#4. Rosehall Run

Address: 1243 Greer Road, Wellington, ON K0K 3L0

Alright so I have a confession….I first came to Rosehall Run because I absolutely loved the look of their very pink and girly Pixie label. I totally judged a book by it’s cover but I am very glad I did!

While this is one of their popular wines, they have a lot to offer and the grounds itself are very cute! There are lots of picnic tables onside, an inviting tasting bar inside and if you have a furry friend, they are pet friendly!

#5. Closson Chase Vineyard

Address: 629 Closson Rd, Hillier, ON K0K 2J0

Situated in an iconic purple barn, Closson Chase Vineyards is another OG in the county

Opening back in 1999, this winery in the county is known for it’s Pinot Noir, Chardonnay and Pinot Gris! Triple threat!

The wine has been very well received over the years so much so that it was even mentioned in the New York Times and has received numerous mentions and accolades since!

Their tastings are super reasonable at only $15.00 for 3 and if you are feeling hungry, you can dine at the restaurant Bantam which is located directly beside the barn! It’s a full experience over at Closson

#6. Old Salt Cocktails

Address: 883 Closson Rd RR 1, Hillier, ON K0K 2J0

Listen I know this is a list of the best wineries in Prince Edward County but I promised to show you all the cool and best spots in the region and I can’t write this list without mentioning Old Salt Cocktails. PLUS, we all get wined out from time to time where we need something else to switch it up.

Just a bit down the road from Closson, you can find the cutest vintage trailer also known as Old Salt Cocktails. Sticking with the wine terminology and feel, they are in, they offer up “Cocktail Flights” where you can sample a few of their offerings.

They have great handheld menu items like hot dogs and reuben sandwiches also being served up from the tiny trailer! Small but mighty little place

Note: This place is open seasonally from May to October

#7. Huff Wine Estates

Address: 2274 Prince Edward County Rd 1, Bloomfield, ON K0K 1G0

If you are a wine snob, come to Huff Wine Estates. And not because the vibe is pretengious (not at all) but because their wines are DAMN good.

They have a beautiful facility where the grapes are harvested and produced right in the perfect location and they don’t mess around.

While people come for the wine quality, they stay for the pizzas they serve up and the live music that gets played on Sundays!

#8 Waupoos Estates Winery

Address: 3016 County Road 8 Picton, Ontario, K0K 2T0

Waupoos is not only a winery but it’s also a cider market, full fledged restaurant and has accommodations on site. Basically it is a winery in Prince Edward County that you can visit and stay put at!

They even host weddings and events on site so you can even get married there!

And who wouldn’t want that? The grounds and vineyards are absolutely breathtaking.

They have a variety of coffee drinks available: classic options and different specialty lattes as well.

Tip: Grab some cheese from Fifth Town just down the street before visiting! They have locally produced buffalo, cow milk and all sorts of specialty cheeses that pair beautifully with these wines!

#9. The Grange

Address: 990 Closson Rd, Hillier, ON K0K 2J0

The Grange offers a selection of wines, including Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and Gamay. The winery’s rustic charm and historic barn make it a popular stop for visitors. It boosts over 60 acres of vineyards making it one of the largest wineries in the region!

Their barn (which houses their tasting room) is a real show stopper and after visiting all of the wineries on this list, I have to say The Grange was one of my favourite stops! Their food offerings are so delicious and you can really have a beautiful day and night there. Check their event schedule too- they often have live music or other entertainment happening on the property!

#10. Norman Hardie

Address: 1152 Greer Rd, Wellington, ON K0K 3L0

Norman Hardie was one of the first wineries in Prince Edward County that got a lot of buzz

I remember first hearing about the area and everyone kept mentioning the same thing- “Norman Hardie!”. With a open air pizza oven right on site, it serves up some of the best pizzas in the PEC region and also has some amazing wines to pair along with it.

This winery is renowned for its excellent Pinot Noir and Chardonnay wines so if you are looking for certain ones to try I would recommend those!

#11. Parson’s Brewing

Address: 876 County Rd 49, Picton, ON K0K 2T0

I had to include a brewery in this list for anyone who doesn’t like wine.

We asked some locals what the best brewery was in town and every single person said “Parson’s Brewery”. We decided to check it out ( my husband loves craft beer) and we are so glad we did

The property was amazing, they had a great tasting room and they even had a skating rink outside ( we visited in March!). They also have a food menu for some nibbles if you want to stick around and eat too!

#13. The Old Third

Address: 251 Closson Rd, Hillier, ON K0K 2J0

Have you ever been to a winery that has a Pasta bar? There is a first for everything!

The Old Third often has a full on pasta bar for you to pair with their wines. Their wines are celebrated for their high-quality, small-batch production and commitment to sustainable and natural winemaking practices. From their wine to the pasta to the space itself, it is a special spot!

Note: They are open seasonally and the pasta bar is not an everyday thing so make sure to check their social pages or call before heading there!

#14. Trail Estate Winery

Trail Estate is known for its natural and minimal intervention winemaking methods. They produce a range of wines, including Riesling, Chardonnay, and Pinot Noir.

The setting there also makes me feel like I am somewhere far away like Sweden or something with it’s sleek and modern barn and minimalist interior. Love it!!

While I have highlighted 14 of the Best Wineries in Prince Edward County there is SO much more to do in the region besides drink wine ( though it’s my favourite thing to do specificially ha).

The restaurant scene has been getting better and better and you really could just dine your heart out in the area and still not be able to try everything. There are also so many great hiking trails to discover as well!

I hope you enjoy your time in Prince Edward County if you go

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However during COVID, I started to see the magic in the changing seasons and embraced things in my local backyard- winter included.

I found so many things to do in the winter in Ontario and now I actually am excited for when the seasons start to change. My daughter also loves the snow so it’s nice to have some activities lined up for when we get a good dump of snow on us!

I put together a list of all of my favourite activities for you to explore this winter and I hope you end up liking winter a tad bit more after doing some of them!

Here are the best things to do in Ontario in Winter

#1. Hit up a Outdoor Skating Trail

Image Via DiscoverMuskoka.com

Is there anything more Canadian than skating or playing hockey outdoors during the winter? Add on a Tim Horton’s coffee and you have the most perfect and stereotypical Canadian winter day….and I am here for it!

Skating outside on a natural rink is one of my favourite things to do in the winter in Ontario! There is nothing quite like it and finding a magical skating trail through some of the best parks? It’s a dream!!

The best outdoor skating trail in Ontario is hands down Arrowhead Provincial Park! This 1.3 skating trail has guided lights along it’s path making it perfect from day to night. Doing it at night is such a romantic thing to do in the winter ( it was actually one

Here are some other Outdoor Skating Trails or Rinks if you are looking for some more things to do in Ontario this winter:

• Rideau Canal Skate way in Ottawa. Not only is this one of the largest skating rinks in the world but it’s a UNESCO World Heritage site (!!)
• Cranberry Marsh Skating Trail in Muskoka
• Nathan Philips Square in Toronto ( ok this isn’t a trail but I needed to add this iconic skating rink to the list!)
• The Bentway Skating Trail ( city version of a skating trail) is great if you live in Toronto or want to do some skating after visiting the Toronto Christmas Market)

#2. Visit the town of St. Jacob’s

St. Jacobs, Ontario is literally the cutest winter town in all of the land! The minute you arrive you feel like you have landed in a middle of a Hallmark Christmas movie.

This is one of the most under rated things to do in Ontario in winter – I really haven’t seen it on too many lists!

Though it’s very cute and fun to visit during Christmas time, visiting anytime during the winter months feels special. The St Jacob’s Market is bustling, there are yummy homemade baked items ( that are extra fulfilling when it’s cold) and the little town itself has cute restaurants and shops to visit.

For the festive season they have special Christmas events ( like Sparkle Night) and an on going Train Ride to the North Pole throughout November and December!

Read my full Travel guide to St. Jacobs, Ontario

#3. Experience a Frozen Waterfall

Having a 2 and 4 year old means I have watched the movie “Frozen” about 238 times. To say the movie has low key got into my system is an understatement. I know every word to all the songs and overall love a good ice storm now!

With that being said, my daughter wanted to see a frozen waterfall last year and we went on a little mini waterfall tour of some of the best ones in Ontario! I highly recommend it as a thing to do in Ontario in the winter!

As a Hamilton, Ontario native, I feel all the best waterfalls in Hamilton are truly one of the best in Ontario- I know I am biased but it’s truly one of the biggest waterfall capitas in Canada!

TIP: If you are feeling extra adventurous, you can always try ice climbing on some of the frozen waterfalls (if of course you have the gear and you are experienced!)

#4. Book tickets to the Niagara Ice Wine Festival

Niagara is amazing for wine tours during the summer months but being a true wine region, it keeps going all year round!

In mid January, Niagara is transformed into a winter wonderland of wine goodness…ice wine that is! The main street in Niagara on the Lake is blocked off for a cute little set up of fire pits, vendors and samplings to celebrate this festival.

Ontario icewine can be found everywhere and a lot of wineries take part in this festival so you can visit a few places with your ticket!

If you want to fancy it up, there is also a Icewine Gala that is held at the Niagara Falls Tunnel ( which is seriously one of the coolest venues around) where you can experience ice wine samplings with delicious food pairings from some of Niagara’s hottest restaurants. For three weekends in January the Niagara region is transformed into a wintry wonderland, in celebration of one of Canada’s most cherished products, Ontario Icewine.

#5. Visit and Outdoor Spa- Things To Do In Ontario In Winter for Couples

I love a good spa in any season but there is something about experiencing a spa in the Winter. The steam rooms, cozy robes and hot tubs make you feel all warm and fuzzy on a cold winter day.

I love to cold plunge as well which is aggressive in the summer…let alone the winter but the relief you get after you dip yourself in a sauna or hot tub afterwards feels amazing!

Here are some Ontario Spas you should visit in the Winter

• Ste. Anne’s Spa in Grafton, Ontario
• The High Acre in Dundas, Ontario
• Elora Mill Spa in Elora, Ontario

Make sure to read my post on the Most Unique Romantic Getaways for Couples in Ontario!

#6. Book a Dog Sledding Experience- One of the most unique things to do in Ontario in winter!

Dog Sledding has been on my buckle list for SO long and has given me a whole new appreciation for winter sports. Not to mention I have fallen in love with some of the breeds of dogs that are traditionally used to dog sled! Cutest.

If you don’t know what dog sledding is, it is an activity in the winter where team of two dogs run side by side along side a rope and pull you on a sleigh! Siberian and Alaskan Huskies are typically used as dogs who are part of this winter activity!

Here are some great places to go Dog Sledding in Ontario:

• Winterdance Dog Sledding in Haliburton, Ontario
• Snow Forest Adventures
• North Ridge Ranch in Huntsville, Ontario

Shop My Favourite Amazon Winter Products

#7. Make your way to Winter Festival of Lights in Niagara

Considered one of the best free things to do in the GTA in Ontario, The Winter Festival of Lights is the largest outdoor light festival.

Niagara Falls is pretty bright and colourful anytim eof the year but every January this area is amplified when this festival takes place. You can expect million of larger than life light displays that are sprinkled down every main artery in town.

From Clifton Hill to Lundy’s Lane to the Falls itself, every section has it’s own theme and display.

Every night during the Festival there are fireworks ( which was what initially drew me in!) and the falls itself it lit up by an illumination each night. It’s a sight to see for both adults and kids alike!

#8. Rent Snow Shoes, Go Fat Biking, Cross Country Skiing or Hike!

Hitting some provincial parks when they are dusted in snow is a fun winter activity that should not be missed! This list of winter activities are for those who love to be active!

It is so easy to rent snow shoes or skis and venture through some great parks! I love snow shoeing for being able to go completely off grid into some areas that are less carved out and paved.

There are some parks ( like Killarney Provincial Park, Superior Provincial Park, Albion Hills Conservation Area for example) that offer rentals right on site! Check the Ontario Park site for a complete list!

#9. Visit Toronto’s Christmas Market

I have been going to the Toronto Christmas Market since the day it opened and I have been an OG fan since!

Each year keeps getting better and better and I always feel like I am transported to Europe…or even the North Pole!

It has all the fixings for the perfect festive or winter activity in Ontario: Lots of yummy food options, outdoor beer gardens, holiday cocktails, open fire pits, carolers, little huts for you to shop at, a massive Christmas tree and there are new Instagrammable backdrops each ear!

It’s now called “Toronto’s Winter Village” and this year it takes place from November 16th-December 23rd 2023. Definitely buy tickets in advance for this one, folks! I also would recommend getting VIP ones where you skip the line. Well worth the price…especially if it’s cold!

Here are some other Ontario Christmas Markets to check out during the Winter:

• Grimsby Christmas Market
• Friday Harbour Christmas Market
• Uxbridge Christmas Market
• Perth, Ontario Christmas Market

#10. Go Skiing or Snowboarding at Blue Mountain

Put on some gear and hit the slopes! Blue Mountain in Collingwood is one of the best all around places to ski or snowboard in Ontario! It has a variety of different hills and levels to try out and if snow sports isn’t your thing, they also have tubing and tobogganing and a ton of restaurants to enjoy!

Their little village is the cutest and filled with so many amazing restaurants so even if you don’t want to ski or snowboard, you can post up in one of the many places within there and have a great time!

Although Blue Mountain is a favourite place in Ontario to snowboard or ski, there are a few more places worth checking out depending on your location!

Here are some other great places to visit in the winter in Ontario:

• Chicopee Tube Park ( you can pair this place with a visit to St. Jacobs!)
• Glen Eden in Milton, Ontario is perfect for beginners!
• Horseshoe Resort!

Book a room at this new Collingwood, Ontario hotel called The Dorchester!

#11. Head to Ottawa for Winterlude

Image Via Carnifest.com

Winterlude in Ottawa is the winter events of all winter events in Ontario! What started in 1979 has become one of the biggest attractions in our nation’s capital that draws thousands of people each year.

You can expect ice skating, live music, ice sculptures, food vendors and more….all showcased along the Rideau Canal Skateway. It truly feels like are you in another world!

#12. Book a cozy cabin stay

While a lot of Canadians love to cottage in the summer, booking a cabin in the winter months is one of the most underrated things to do!

Not only can you get certain cottages and cabins at a fraction of the cost but there is something so beauitful and relaxing about being snowed in up north with a fireplace and a good book.

If you like doing things that are more off the grid, I would check out some of the Winter Camping or Winter Glamping options that are also around!

Here are some unique Ontario winter cabins to rent:

• Cabin on the 9
• The Nest or Water’s Edge
• Fernwood Hill Cabins
• Golden Lake Ontario Cabin

#13. Witness the Northern Lights

Image via Global Tv

Skip the trip to Iceland and witness the Northern Lights in Ontario! Your best bet to do this is so visit the most Northern part of Ontario: think Sault Ste. Marie, Lake Nissiping or Manitoulin island!

The best chance of witnessing these lights is to be in areas like this, find a clear night (the weather app is your best friend in this mission) and be on the lookout from 11PM-3AM.

This magical sky show or the “aurora borealis” as the scientists call it can appears when there is little pollution and when the solar particles collide with the earth’s atmosphere. This needs to happen at a peak time in the earth’s rotation so basically a lot needs to happen to see it but when it does….WOAH!

The Best Things To Do In Ontario In the Winter will get you outside in the fresh air and will have you wishing it was always snowing!

Out of all the places I have visited this past summer, the culinary scene in Perth really stood out to me. For it being such a small town, it’s food and beverage scene was very “big city” vibes. They had top notch restaurants that seriously rivaled some of the places I have visited in Toronto as of late.  

Between the fresh baked goods ( I feel like pastries and pies taste better when I know they are from a small local kitchen) to the beer and distillery scene to all of the comfort meals, you will be content with your eating experience in Perth Ontario! 

The best restaurants in Perth Ontario are all walkable for the most part which we loved! We were able to have a delicious breakfast and then check out some of the fun things to do in Perth and then grab lunch right after! 

No matter what your eating style is ( fine dining, casual) OR if you are 

Visiting the area soon? Check out my Complete Guide of the Best things to do in Perth Ontario

Here are the Best Restaurants in Perth Ontario

#1. The Stone Cellar

The Stone Cellar located right in the smack of downtown Perth is the perfect blend of upscale, modern and inviting.

Their small sidewalk patio is the perfect place to grab a little lunch on a hot summer day and their interior space is very lovely for a date night dinner or an evening out with friends.

Most importantly, the food is top notch! We went for dinner and had their crab cakes to start, gnocchi pesto and lamb as our entrees and mason jar tiramisu to finish. We decided to share everything and found our forks wrestling with each other over the last bites. It was delicious.

Tip: The menu changes seasonally so if you are researching a head of time it might be different once you actual visit! Also at the time of writing, we found their lunch menu a bit more casual compared to dinner which we would have definitely been in for if we had more time in Perth!

#2. Rocky River Cafe- One of the best rated restaurants in Perth Ontario

Rocky River Cafe is a fan favourite in town…and for good reason!

The place has it all: amazing location ( located on the river), cute atmosphere ( think string lights and a garden feel) and most importantly some of the best dishes in town. No literally- this place has some of the best reviews out of every restaurant on this list.

We love the diversity of the menu ( everything from shrimp cocktails to salads to burgers) and their cocktail list is also a reason to visit

Important to note: This place is closed on Sundays!

You Might Like These Other Ontario Posts

• Brewery Tour! 9 Of the Best Breweries in Hamilton, Ontario
• 14 Places to See Epic Fall Colours in Ontario
• 5 Romantic Getaways for Couples in Ontario
• Hidden Spa Hotel in Dundas, Ontario
• The Best Travel Guide to 1000 Islands, Canada

#3. Michael’s Table- Best Perth Restaurant in Perth Ontario for a Family!

If you are looking for a great restaurant to visit as a family, I would recommend Michael’s Table.

I love, love, loved our dinner there! It has a comfortable and inviting atmosphere, classic entrees and a wonderful kids menu ( with crayons and a colour pad as well which we all know is very key and helpful!)

My husband had Chicken Parmesan and Ribs and we both left full and happy!

Like many of the restaurants in Perth, they served up some varieties from Perth Brewery and we couldn’t help but choose their classic lager to wash it all down with!

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#4. The Hungry 7

File this spot under “Legendary Restaurant That you cannot miss!”

With a very unassuming location, The Hungry 7 might be a spot that you would potentially drive pass without thinking too much of it. However this spot is filled with high quality, delicious dishes that operates like a modern diner. It’s specials change daily, are featured on a classic chalkboard like you see in a movie and it’s reviews are stellar.

The fresh made pies, perogies and pastas are known to be their specialities but you honestly cannot go wrong with anything here. It’s a great spot to come for breakfast, lunch OR dinner making it a place that you can easily visit anytime when you come to Perth!

#5. The Fieldhouse – One of the best restaurants in Perth Ontario for lunch!

The Fieldhouse is a magical little spot in Perth Ontario. They serve delicious sandwiches ( think classics like Ham and Swiss and Chicken and Brie but with a twist!), fresh salads and wholesome, mouthwatering baked items to top it all off with.

Their food is all made in house and they have coffee, fresh juices and even some brew-skis if you want to add a little excitement to your lunch!

They are open Tuesdays- Saturdays from 10AM-3PM

#6. Mex and Co.- Best Patio Restaurant in Perth Ontario

Ok so Mex and Co. has hands down the best location in Perth. Perched along the Tay River, it’s patio tables quite literally give you an upfront close up and personal view of it! It’s a beautiful spot to come for a lunch or happy hour.

Though the patio is the real winner at Mex and Co, the ambience inside with its eclectic decor and colourful walls is really not a bad 2nd option. We actually sat inside because we were with our kids and needed a bit more room and had an amazing time.

TIP: Get the Taco Salad. We saw so many people ordering this Margaritas that we washed it all down with. OMG! I kept stealing sips of my husbands after I finished mine because it was that good.

#7. Kothu Labs

Cool restaurant alert! If you are looking for a unique restaurant ( both in terms of location and menu), you need to visit Kothu Labs

Their menu features traditional Sri Lankan dishes with a modern twist. And let me tell you – as someone who has visited Sri Lanka, their food tastes super authentic.

It was so cool to visit this restaurant in Perth and feel like I had been transported back to Sri Lanka itself but in a trendy and happening setting. Their alleyway patio is very Instagram worthy and their drinks are also something that you shouldn’t miss! 10/10!

#8. Coutts Coffee Roastery

Coutts Coffee was recommended by a local who said not only do they visit weekly but they brew up the coffee at home.

We showed up at 8AM and there was a line up out the door. We took this as a very good sign!

The line moved fast and shortly after we were sipping our coffees by the Tay River where we confirmed the hype was real.

They have a variety of coffee drinks available: classic options and different specialty lattes as well.

#9. Maximilian restaurant

One of our faovurite fall activities is hitting up a classic German restaurant and getting a traditional Schniztel meal. We have a restaurant like this in our hometown of Hamilton but finding one in Perth, Ontario…during our fall visit no less, was just so perfect!

Maximilian restaurant is right in town and right on the river. The interior is cozy and welcoming and the food will have you leaving very happy. If you are looking for comfort food, this is the Perth Ontario restaurant to add to your list!

Tip: Get yourself a seat in their Verandah dining room for the best seat in the place!

The Best Restaurants in Perth Ontario: Continued List!

• Perth Pie Co. This bakery serves everything from traditional sweet pies to savoury ones. There is no flavour or kind they can’t do!
• Fiddleheads Bar– This spot serves great pub food in the Code Mill’s building aka the cutest builing in all of Perth Ontario
• Bistro 54- Looking for a fancier Italian option? I got you boo! Hit up Bistro 54 for pasta just like how your Nonna makes it!
• Stella Luna Gelato- Tucked down an inviting alleyway, this gelato shop is a must visit!!
• The Golden Arrow Pub & Eatery This spot is perfect for a beer and a burger if you are looking for a fast and easy meal!
• Peter’s Family Restaurant- This place is old school…..and legendary. A follower from Instagram reached out and said that she used to live in Perth and their sandwiches were the BEST. She wasn’t lying. Shortly after I had another few messages from people sayin the same thing!
• Perth Brewery- Perth is known for it’s beer and while this place is closer to the highway and not directly in town, I would recommend stopping here for a cold one…and to learn a little more about the Perth beer scene in general!

While I have highlighted the 9 Best Restaurants in Perth, Ontario, I could have easily written a much bigger list because there are so many amazing places in town. I keep referring to Perth as “small but mighty” because it’s a small town with a big personality!

The restaurant scene is filled with endless options and if you are picky about what you like to eat, trust me when I say that you won’t have a hard time finding a spot that suits your needs! If you aren’t a picky eater, have fun trying to decide where to go with all the options haha.

Shop My Favourite Amazon Fall Items

Perth, Ontario aka the cutest town in Ontario is filled with so many fun and exciting things to do. Though it’s small, there is no shortage of ways to fill your days.

With it’s stone heritage buildings, trendy culinary scene and the fact that it’s super walkable, Perth Ontario is a place that should be on everyone’s list.

Whether you are just here for a weekend trip, for one of their many events that they put on or simply passing through on a road trip, I have you covered with a breakdown of what do in Perth!

This was my first time visiting Perth Ontario and it certainly won’t be my last! I can’t wait to come back again in the winter.

Where is Perth, Ontario located?

Perth is located in Southern Ontario within the Lanark County. This tiny town of only 6,000 people is only 1 hour from Ottawa and less than 4 hours from Toronto! Whatever area you are coming from in Ontario, it makes for a great weekend road trip.

The drive from Hamilton ( where we live) was great. After we got off the highway, the remaining 2 hours were spent on backroads. I highly suggest doing the country route there as you pass so many incredible farms in the area ( a lot of them have markets too where you can buy some homemade baked items for the road because what is a road trip without stopping several times for good snacks! HA)

How Many Days Do You Need in Perth, Ontario?

I would recommend a full weekend to experience all the beautiful things Perth, Ontario has to offer. Between the restaurants, festivals, events, parks and hikes, 2 nights and 3 days will give you the change to really immerse yourself into the feel of the town.

Insider Tip: A lot of the restaurants and spots in Perth close early so expect full days but early nights. My kind of place if you did say so! haha

Where to stay in Perth Ontario?

Nevis Estate- Luxury Accommodation in Perth, Ontario

Nevis Estate is quite possibly the coolest and most unique places I have ever stayed and if you find yourself in Perth, Ontario I would really urge you to try to book a stay there!

Opening just last year, the estate was thoughtfully restored and renovated from it’s original 1842 heritage set up to reflect a modern, cozy and luxe space.

What’s even more special about Nevis Estates is that it’s only a 10 minute walk from the center of town but you legitimately feels like you have been transported to the countryside of England. While it is a smaller boutique hotel, it has all the five star amenities that you will ever need!

The property has original Pine hardwood floors ( that they want to preserve) so upon arrival you are asked to take off your shoes and put on a pair of their in house slippers. It really sets the tone of how your stay will go and adds to the vibe of the place- cozy, luxe and relaxing.

Here are some features of Nevis Estate that make it truly special:

• In Room Dyson’s ( Yes the $$$ hair dryers)
• Exquisite Bedding and Linens
• Complimentary Slippers
• A full 5 star breakfast included that is set up in their stunning dining room
• Seasonal pool with lounge chairs
• Sunroom and other common areas perfect for reading or relaxing
• Complimentary Wifi
• Lobby Bar (CUTEST!!!!)
• In Room Nespresso

Other Places To Stay in Perth, Ontario

Another great, more budget friendly option is the Best Western Plus located in the heart of town. While some Best Westerns are mediocre, this one is honestly WAY above average. Dare I say even beautiful. It has an onsite restaurant, spa and the rooms are completely spacious.

If you want to stay somewhere unique, this Air Bnb pictured above is a great option and located in the cutest in stone house which is very “traditional Perth”. It’s set up as a loft studio with a private waterfront view.

Let’s get started on the some of the most amazing things to do in Perth Ontario

Things To Do in Perth Ontario: Go on a Beer and Spirit Tour

I love doing an unofficial beer or wine tour when I visit a new place and Perth is a great place for just this! We stuck to beer and spirits only and moved through 3 of the best spots in town to do so! It’s a great way to get to know the local businesses and each of these spots are located in different areas of Perth as well which we liked.

• Perth Brewery – If you don’t get to visit the actual Perth Brewery location, you can find their beer on almost every menu in town! Their radlers are not to be missed!
• Bridgemaster Brewery– A new kid on the block, this brewery has a great selection of craft beer AND a food menu! Double whammy.
• Top Shelf Distillers –This is Perth’s well known craft distillery! They serve up classic spirits like gin, vodka and whiskey but what really sets them apart from others is their handcrafted moonshine! They have the most unique flavour’s like raspberry and maple! Traditionally a lot of moonshines have a 50% alcohol content but some of theirs are “only” 15% making it perfectly acceptable and doable to try a few of them!

Visit the Iconic Stewart Park

If you are looking for free things to do in Perth Ontario, this one is for you!

To be honest though if there was an entry fee to come to this park, I would pay!

Stewart Park in Perth is one of the most stunning parks I have ever visited- better than ones in Europe even!

Located right in the heart of town, Stewart Park is a sprawling green oasis with over 400 acres of grounds to explore. Given it’s size there are plentiful places to hang out at and when we visited over the weekend, we felt like we had the entire park to ourselves. It’s that big!

The Tay River runs though parts of it and in true Perth fashion they have built small, picturesque bridges that can take you across. The Dry Stone bridge ( pictured above) was added in 2016 even though it looks super old! It was built to celebrate Perth’s 200th birthday and it definitely gives off Disney Fairytale vibes.

Things To Do in Perth Ontario: Visit Code Mill’s

Code’s Mill is a set of buildings that date back to 1842. It is a landmark now and probably one of the most photographged places in town!

Code’s Mill is home to restaurants and shops and an indoor courtyard that makes you feel like you are in Europe. The courtyard even has a large fountain in the center of it! It’s no shocker that people even host their weddings there!

Here are the places to visit at the Code Mill’s:

• Blackfly Grub Hub: Go here for some creative and unique donuts. Trust me on this one. UNREAL!
• Perth Chocolate Works: This is a family owned artisan chocolate shop that makes each and every chocolate right there on site
• Kelly’s Flowers and Gift Boutique: We visited this place when all their fall decor was out and I almost left with a car load of items. They have fresh plants and flowers, candles, perfect hostess gifts and more
• Fiddleheads Bar & Grill: Pub classics in a cute setting! The patio is also perfect as it gives you perfect views of Stewart Park.

Discover Perth Ontario’s History with a visit to the Perth Museum

Perth Museum, located in the stunning Matheson House on Gore Street, is a tourist attraction that you cannot miss!

The house itself was built in 1840 and is considered a national historic site which is worth a visit alone for that fact!

The Matheson House was occupied by a wealthy family in the 1800’s that lived there for over 90 years! Their rooms are still there and you can get the feel of how it was to live like them when you tour the spot.

Throughout the house, you can find items that give you some really neat insight to Perth’s history. Everything from land records to iconic signs and even past records allow you to learn about how Perth came to be and the monumental events that gave shape to what it is today

Insider’s tip: If you have kids, this is a great free thing to do in Perth! They hand out a little scavenger hunt paper where they can try to locate all the items throughout the house. If your kid finds them all ( it’s not hard), they are given a little prize at the end. It surely kept our girls entertained!

Things To Do in Perth Ontario if you are a Foodie! Eat at some of Perth’s Restaurants

Perth is a small town yes but it’s personality is BIG and so is it’s dining scene. You can spend your entire weekend eating through town.

You can view a complete breakdown of the best restaurants in Perth here

• Mex & Co  $$ – This spot has the best patio in all of Perth! It is quite literally right on the water and serves up delicious Mexican fare.
• The Stone Cellar $$$$– Looking for a classy spot to dine at for dinner? You must come here. Between the Gnocchi and the Lamb entrees, you will NOT be disappointed.
• Maximilian’s Restaurant $$–If you visit in the fall, you need to hit up this iconic German restaurant which is known for it’s schnitzel. Pair it with a Perth Brewery beer and you have yourself a perfect night
• Coutts Coffee & Roastery $- Coffee lovers I got you! This place located right on the river ( another prime location) is perfect for a morning brew and pastry

Things To Do in Perth Ontario: Attend One Of their Festivals or Events!

Drink at The Ontario Moonshine Festival

The Ontario Moonshine Festival happens every year at Top Shelf Distillers! There are a variety of vendors sampling the finest of Moonshines, beers, and other spirits and it gives you the chance to try a bunch! The festival is outdoors and it’s a super fun vibe all around! The best part is that tickets are not required for this event so it’s a great free thing to do in Perth Ontario if you happen to visit on the same weekend!

They have bands and live music happening throughout the day, lounge areas to hang out at, corn hole on site and a mini beer/cocktail garden to visit! We had SO much fun here and could have easily spent the whole afternoon sipping on some drinks.

Notes about the festival: Parking is free! You can end up purchasing food and cocktails at the event itself which range from $3-$10.00. Gates to the event opening from 10AM-6PM

Looking to visit some other awesome places in Canada? Check out my other posts below:

• The Ultimate Banff Itinerary
• 14 Places To See Fall Colours in Ontario
• 10 Magical Things To Do in Quebec City At Christmas Time
• Lake Louise, Alberta: The Most Luxurious Place to Stay
• Weekend Itinerary to Quebec City
• Visiting the Iconic Fairmont Banff Springs Resort
• The High Acre Spa in Dundas, Ontario

The Perth Fair

The Perth Fair is another Perth Ontario event that you can’t miss! It has been happening every year since 1852 which is kind of crazy to think about! Such an iconic event that is over a century old!

The Perth Fair is one of the best things to do in Perth Ontario with kids if you are travelling as a family! Our girls had the best time and I won’t lie….so did we! Between the cotton candy, Sizzler ride ( omg so fast), Fun Slide and all the little games we played, our stomachs honestly hurt from laughing so much.

Notes about the Perth Fair: Admission for adults: $12, Children 7-12: $5, Children 6 and under: Free. The Perth Fair falls on Labour Day weekend every year if you want to plan ahead!

The Stewart Park Festival

Music lovers rejoice! This musical event that happens in Perth Ontario’s Stewart Park is one of the livliest events of the year!

You really can’t beat listening to music in such a gorgeous atmosphere like Stewart Park! Not only is the event free to attend but in addition to the musical entertainment that they have lined up, they also have a kids area to explore, a beer patio to visit and vendors set up to shop with! It’s a great event for all ages

Notes about the Stewart Park Festival: It normally happens mid July ( this year’s was July 14-16)

Holiday Events in Perth Ontario

If there is one thing that Perth reminded me of, it was a Hallmark Christmas movie. I honestly can’t imagine how magical the town would feel with a light dusting of snow and Christmas music playing throughout the stores. We are contemplating a trip there this winter strictly to see it in Holiday Mode!

With that being said, there are a ton of Holiday Events that Perth puts on to get everyone in the festive mood. Here is the line up for 2023:

• Shop Stamp & Win (November 1 – December 31, 2023)
• Festival of Lights (The trees are lit from November 18, 2023)
• Once Upon A Christmas in Perth (November 25, 2023)
• Santa Claus Parade (December 2, 2023)
• Polar Bear Plunge (January 1, 2024)

The Perth Night Market

The Perth Night Market is an event that allows you to take in the streets of Perth and be entertained by local vendors, restaurants, pubs, pop up shops and more. The streets are closed for this event so it feels like the entire town is one big festival! In a town that normally gets pretty sleepy at night time, The Perth Night Market will keep you buzzing! It is taking place on September 16th weekend of this year

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Things To Do in Perth Ontario: Visit their famous mural!

If you love a good photo- op, this one is for you! This was my first stop of our Perth Ontario visit and I am not made about it. It sort of felt like our welcome hug from the town itself when I pulled up.

This 1988 mural is one of the most popular spots in Perth with both locals and tourists a like! It’s known as the Red Fox Mural and one of a number of murals scattered around town.

What I love most about this mural is the backstory behind it! Artist Craig Campbell was down and out after his marriage ednded and needed a place to stay. The owner of the restaurant where the mural sits invited Craig to come and stay in one of the rooms above it. Instead of paying for lodging, the owner asked Craig to pain the exterior wall of the building. And paint it did he indeed!

HERE TO FIND THIS PERTH ONTARIO MURAL?

80 FOSTER STREET, PERTH, ONTARIO, K7H 1S1

Visit with the Mammoth Cheese

Cheese is a big part of Perth’s history and if there is anything I love it’s some good cheese! The Mammoth Cheese is a big massive display that is located right beside Crystal Palace. If you like cheese…and want a little history lesson- you should definitely visit this Perth landmark!

Back in 1892, a 22,000 pound cheese aka “Mammoth Cheese” was made in Perth to promote Canadian cheese in the area. It was to be brought to a fair in Chicago as a representation of what the Canadian cheese market could do. It became the most buzzworthy item there and was bought by a wealthy gentleman who then shipped it to England!

A replica of this massive block of cheese was created to pay an ode to the history of this event and I highly suggest checking it out and then sampling some good cheese ( with wine of course) as a tribute to it!

Things To Do in Perth Ontario If you Love Adventure: Go Canoeing, Paddle boarding or Kayaking on the Tay River

The Tay River in Perth is so peaceful to take in. While you can do this from within town or at one of the parks, the best way to experience the river is by getting right in it!

This option is possible when you rent gear from Perth Major Outfitters. The length of the river allows for you to spend some good quality time out there via paddle board, canoe, or kayak! Rentals are by the hour ( most of them start around $45) or you can do a full day

If water sports aren’t your thing, they do have a mini golf course which was so fun for the kids. Another great thing to do in Perth Ontario with kids if you are travelling with yours!

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You can also read all about about my favourite travel essentials for women!

Explore Perth Ontario’s Cutest Boutique Shops!

There are no shortage of cute shops and places to explore in town where you can shop until you drop! There is something so lovely about hitting up local and independent shops. I love supporting places like this as you can often feel the personal touches and love that these kind of stores put into their places.

No matter what you are looking for, you can find it at one of the many Perth shops! I am highlighting a few of the favorites that we were able to check out:

Riverguild Fine Crafts This store is legendary, opening back in 1977! It has handcrafted gifts made by local artists and is not to be missed

Aprikose Children’s Boutique -This is legit the coolest kid store I have ever walked into. I was mad that some of their items didn’t come in my size. It’s an amazing place to buy gifts if you do have a little one you are shopping for!

Fall River Fashion– This store has the cutest store front ( pictured above) and has everything you need if you are looking for a last minute outfit or some cute gear in general!

Where Dragons Fly – Cutest store ever selling aromatherapy, bath bombs and other delicious smelling scrubs!

Looking for to do a road trip to Perth, Ontario?

• Book a great rental car from Discover Cars
• Find a hotel that suites your budget needs at Booking.com

I hope you enjoyed reading about all the amazing things to do in Perth Ontario and that I have inspired you to check out this fairytale like town!

Visiting Perth will make you feel like you are in a movie and I promise you that you will want to return again and again!

If you have any specific questions when planning your visit that I didn’t cover in this post, feel free to email me!

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I am not kidding you when I say that you can spend your days in Charlottetown just eating away. There are so many charming, unique and flat out outstanding restaurants in town. Some of the restaurants in Charlottetown that we visited were honestly some of the best dining experiences we have had in all of our travels. 

Between the fresh seafood, oysters ( probably the best in North America), top notch steak houses, and all the hand crafted cocktails we enjoyed, you will not be disappointed if you visit. We did not have one bad meal. The best restaurants in Charlottetown are also all in the core of the downtown area meaning you can easily enjoy them from breakfast to dinner and walk between them all very easily.

Here are the Best Restaurants in Charlottetown PEI

#1. Sim’s Corner- The best steakhouse in Charlottetown PEI

Not only is this a steak house but it’s also an oyster bar. Double whammy.

#2. Sea Rockets- The Best Oysters in Charlottetown

You may have caught my last post on some of the best things to do in Charlottetown and one of them was to go on an Oyster tour. We did just that and can say that the Oysters from Sea Rockets were some of our favs.

We loved seeing them be shucked right in front of us at the bar and even got to talking to the amazing bartenders and staff that work there. They were so knowledgeable about the variety of oysters that we left there feeling a little more wiser about all things Oysters.

Not only is the restaurant’s interior beautiful but it’s located on a prime piece of real estate- right on the corner of Victoria Row which is definitely the cutest street in town. Their hand crafted cocktails were also something not to miss

You Might Like These Other Charlottetown Posts:

• 11 Of The Most Exciting Things to Do Charlottetown
• PEI’S Best Beach: Thunder Cove Beach

#3. Merchantman- Best seafood in Charlottetown overall

If you are looking for the works- Oysters, Mussels, Fish Entrees, Burgers and some amazing Sharing plates- The Merchantman is your place.

I love, love, loved our dinner there!

My husband had a Steak and I had the Halibut…with a starter of Oysters to start of course and everything was 10/10.

What I loved about The Merchantman is that they have a stunning interior space, an expansive patio that overlooks Queen Street and even a little sister restaurant called “The Next Door” that attaches to the side of the space (here you can often find live music!). Whatever your vibe is, you can find it here.

Quick Links- My Favourite Amazon Travel Items

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#4. Receiver Coffee

Caffeine lovers, this one is for you!

With several locations throughout the city, it would be hard to visit Charlottetown and not visit Receiver Coffee. We chose to visit the location on Victoria Row but we also walked by the one close to the Founder’s Food hall which looked really cute as well.

We loved it so much that even though our hotel served up coffee every morning, we still went here for a second cup!

The interior space reminds me of a space you would see in a magazine and if I lived in Charlottetown, I would probably post up there often with my coffee and laptop.

They serve delicious and sustainable coffee and have a wide variety of brews, blends and concoctions outside of the norm. They also have a locally forward lunch and baked item menu

#5. Leonard’s- One of the best restaurants in Charlottetown PEI for lunch!

Leonard’s is one of those magical little spaces filled with charm. You could easily get cozy in there with one of their specialty lattes, soups or sandwiches and stay put for a while.

While the space itself gives you all the feels, their menu is equally as special. Their food is all made from scratch and they have some of the best sandwiches in the city. I honestly couldn’t pick which one to go with because they all sounded so incredible.

They also have amazing baked goods. Nom Nom!

#6. Blue Mussel Cafe

Ok so Blue Mussel Cafe is not a restaurant in Charlottetown per say but it was TOO amazing to not include on the best restaurants in Charlottetown list!

Basically one of the things I would recommend to do when visiting Charlottetown PEI is to visit it’s amazing beaches. When doing so, you can add Blue Mussel Cafe onto your itinerary for this day.

Between the ambience, eclectic decor and location, it is a place where you can set up shop for a reallllly long lunch! We did just that and if we didn’t have plans for later, I probably would have extended my time there.

The best part about it though is honestly the food ( which says a lot because the place itself checks so many boxes). The lobster roll that we had there was probably the best lobster roll I had in my life. Not heavy, perfectly buttered and served up with homemade/gourmet potato salad.

Making the experience even more fuzzy was the Cucumber Jalapeño Margaritas that we washed it all down with. OMG! I kept stealing sips of my husbands after I finished mine because it was that good.

#7. Abbiocco- The best restaurant in Charlottetown for Italian!

This is the new Italian restaurant in Charlottetown and it delivers my friends! With modern and inviting booths that are the focal point of the space and an expansive bar that sprawls along the whole back side, Abbiocco is bellissima!

The food also hit all the right notes. I’m Italian so I am bit more picky when it comes to my Italian food and Abbiocco’s pasta is the real deal. I am honestly drooling just thinking of it.

Their pasta menu is actually quite big and while they have the fan favourites like bolognese and penne a la vodka, their unique dishes are what they are most known for.

#8. Salt & Sol – The place to go for the best cocktails in Charlottetown

Come here for a waterfront dining experience like no other…and for the tastiest cocktails in town! Located on the 2nd level, Salt and Sol has stunning views of the Charlottetown Harbour and Marina and I would recommend coming here after dinner or for a sunset.

If you are looking to use your dancing feet, they have DJ’s from time to time so check their socials for some fun events!

#9. Lone Oak Pub

Ok so this restaurant is not in downtown Charlottetown but if you take a quick 15 minute cab ride to the Milky way area, you can find the Lone Oak Pub and what a gem of a spot it is!

Highlights include the best mussels we have had in a while, delicious craft beer and a patio that overlooks a really cool river. If it gets a get cold, they also have welcoming firepits on the patio that I would 100% set up shop around for a while.

The Best Restaurants in Charlottetown: Continued List!

• Claddagh Oyster House– Looking for a fancier option for oysters and dinner? Visit this place!
• Water Prince Corner – Do not miss their seafood chowder
• Churchhill Arms– This Dublin Pub is right on Queen Street and it is ever so cute!
• Richard’s- Not a restaurant in downtown Charlottetown but located by the water near Covehead Beach ( about 30 minutes from downtown Charlottetown). It is THE place for fish and chips
• Ollie’s – Located in Founder’s Food Hall, this is said to be one of the best pizzas in Charlottetown
• Cow’s Ice Cream– You are probably like DUH because if you know anything about Charlottetown you may know that Cow’s Ice Cream originates from here. I had to add this in the best restaurants in Charlottetown list because I do recommend going at least once a day to maximize the deliciousness ha
• JC’s Tiki Bar: This spot is perfect for taco and margs right on the water! There are also many Charlottetown waterfront restaurants in and around this same area

While I have highlighted the 9 Best Restaurants in Charlottetown, I found myself continuing to type as I kept thinking of more places that should be added to the list hence the names above! Like I mentioned before, Charlottetown is filled with so many cool and unique dining spots and for that reason alone- I wish I had more time there!

Have any questions about some of the Best Restaurants in Charlottetown restaurants? Feel free to Email me!

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