Winter is just around the corner, and the holiday season is now upon us. If you’re ready to fully immerse yourself in the joy and wonders of the festive season, we have just the adventure for you. Ontario is home to several small towns and communities that turn into winter wonderlands once the snow falls. They are so charming that they feel like a holiday movie.
They usually light up with festive holiday lighting, making it all feel like you’re in your favourite Hallmark movie.
So, from towns where these very movies are filmed to those magical experiences, here are a few small towns to explore.
Almonte, Ont.
This charming town offers boutique shopping, delicious food and drink options, local spots to stay and of course, Christmas movies are made here too.
On the town’s website, you can find a long list of Hallmark holiday movies that were filmed using the town as its backdrop.
Live your main character moment, walking along the streets of Almonte, taking in the picturesque sights. Make your trip even better when Ontario sees its first snowfall.
Bayfield, Ont.
Per the Village of Bayfield, it’s a charming and historic place that some may even say offers a “Hallmark experience.”
“Take a stress-free countryside road trip where you find one-of-a-kind boutique shopping, unique restaurants, wineries, breweries, hiking, accommodations, and more,” shares the site.
Bracebridge, Ont.
Looking for small-town charm with a side of natural beauty? Then a trip to Bracebridge, Ontario, is definitely in order.
Known as “Muskoka’s downtown” region, Bracebridge is a lovely destination just steps from a thundering waterfall.
Bracebridge in the winter is known for its Fire and Ice festival. Expect a full day of fun with tubing right down the Main Street, fireworks, axe throwing, and more.
Paris, Ont.
Dreaming of faraway places? You don’t need a plane ticket to be transported to Europe. You can experience it right here in a town called Paris, Ontario.
In its own Canadian way, this town really does live up to its namesake.
It features cobblestone, historic buildings, artisan boutiques, and views of the Grand River. It’ll make you feel like you’re wandering along the River Seine.
This town is known as the “cobblestone capital of Canada” because it is a hub of aged cobblestone homes and structures. And it’s all extra dreamy in the winter.
Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ont.
Located in the Niagara region, Niagara-on-The-Lake is a waterfront town bursting with old-world charm.
It is a well-preserved 19th-century village, featuring storybook-worthy heritage homes and boulevards lined with boutiques, restaurants, and attractions.
This picturesque town is beautiful in every season, from the bloom of spring to the first snowfall of the holiday season.
Pakenham, Ont.
According to Ottawa Tourism, Pakenham’s famous Cedar Hill Christmas Tree Farm is a lively holiday spot and has been featured in several holiday movies.
Stratford, Ont.
Not only is this town famous for its annual Stratford Festival, but it’s also known for its stunning architecture.
From the outside, Stratford resembles a typical charming small town in Ontario, of which there are many. But once you set foot inside the town, you will be taken aback by the heritage buildings, artisan boutiques, and historical landmarks that line the streets.
Unionville, Ont.
You don’t have to travel far outside of Toronto to find a small town, rich in heritage and charm. You don’t even have to leave the GTA! Unionville is an incredible spot to spend an afternoon, and it’s absolutely wonderful
Its heritage buildings and main street will make you feel like you’re on the set of a Hallmark holiday movie. The town is so picturesque that Gilmore Girls filmed its pilot here, and winters just make it so much more charming.
Alright, Ontario, we gave you the destinations, now it’s up to you to go and visit them. And luckily for you, we’ve given you plenty of notice to enjoy these gems before the holidays creep up on you.
Enjoy!
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