Ontario is a BIG, big place — it spans over 1800km tip to tail. That’s why it’s all the more impressive that these tiny towns (and these tiny towns!), some just one street long, have commandeered such a large part of our collective heart.
From insanely good street food to terroir driven microbrews to the most ah-mazing pie, each has it’s own unique charm.
Port Perry, Ontario
Population: 6,019
This tiny town in Durham Region does community spirit like nowhere else! There’s an annual Chili-Cook-Off, a Harvest Festival, a Beer Festival – and the list goes on. We recommend popping into the Old Flame Brewing Co. while in town for a sip or two.
Bobcaygeon, Ontario
Population: 3,525
There’s a reason this town has been woven into the fabric of the Canadian imagination, and it’s not just the because of the Tragically Hip. Besides being the first anchor point of the Trent-Severn Waterway, it’s also home to a number of charming, small-town classics. There’s Kawartha Coffee Co (the only Feast On Certified spot in town!) and of course, an outpost of Kawartha Dairy.
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Wawa, Ontario
Population: 2,975
Besides having the funnest name, Wawa has been host to folks who love fishing, eating and exploring – as well as a GIANT goose – for decades. When in town, make sure to stop at Young’s General Store for one of their famous pickles and be sure to pack a container to forage for blueberries with!
Fergus, Ontario
Population: 8,410
Fergus is the largest community in Centre Wellington, but that doesn’t mean it’s very large at all. It’s a great home base for anyone looking to explore the Elora gorge. The town itself has managed to maintain lots of stone-front buildings and the waterfront is always good for a photo-op. We recommend staying at the Breadalbane Inn and treating yourself to dinner at Scozia.
Almonte/Mississippi Mills, Ontario
Population: 13,163
Did you know this tiny town in Lanark County is home to one of Canada’s most celebrated chocolate shops? Erica and Drew at Hummingbird Chocolate Maker consistently bring home awards for their quality chocolate products. You can tour the workshop on Saturdays, but the shop is open 7 days a week. Also of note in this Eastern Ontario gem are Crooked Mile Brewery, Dandelion Foods and North Market.
Eugenia, Ontario
Population: Approximately 600
Eugenia sits at the top of the Beaver Valley and Eugenia Falls tumbles a dramatic 30 meters to the valley below. Waterfalls are nice and all, but we go to Eugenia to eat, particularly at the Flying Chestnut. Chef Shawn Adler has created an organic, fresh from scratch bistro style food – and it’s addictive.
Rosemont, Ontario
Population: 288
Blink and you’ll miss the charming shops, cafes and restaurants on this short stretch of the 89 — but you’d be missing out. Rosemont is home to Dufferin County Museum, The Globe Restaurant and The Rosemont General Store, all gems of the Headwaters Region.
Grand Bend, Ontario
Population: 2,102
This charming beachtown in Huron County has long been a not-so-secret respite for cottagers and sunshine chasers. There’s plenty of great restaurants, sand and kilometres of boardwalk. It’s also a gathering spot for motorcyclists touring the HURON SHORE ROUTE, a 2.5-hour, 130-km ride along the sparkling blue waters of southern Lake Huron and the St. Clair River.
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Port Stanley, Ontario
Population: 2,148
Port Stanley is the thriving heart of Elgin County. You’ll find plenty of charming art shops and restaurants along the water, including one of our favorite shawarma spots in Ontario: Shebaz’s Shawarma & Falafel.
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Dorset, Ontario
Population: 400
This charming riverside town is small but mighty. The community spirit is always palpable. Be sure to stop in a Pizza on Earth for a wood fired bagel (or pie!) and take a moment to climb the Dorset Fire Tower. It’s one of our favorites views in Ontario!
