These two small Ontario towns are listed among the ‘most charming’ in Canada, Canada Reviews

Research shows that young families are still leaving Canada’s big cities for smaller towns such as Brockville, Ont. Recent Stats Can data shows that more than 132,000 people left Toronto, Vancouver, and Montreal, combined in 2022–2023 (much higher than the previous average of about 42,000/year from 2001 to 2019!)

And it’s for a good reason — smaller towns tend to be associated with larger (more wallet-friendly) properties, loads of green space, and friendly communities. If you’re looking for a small town to visit (or perhaps move to), then there’s no better place to look than in Ontario — two small towns close to Toronto were recently named among Betway’s “most charming” in Canada.

Brockville, Ont., was listed as the third most charming small town in the country, with the city boasting more than 20 landmarks and the fifth-highest number of parks (eight). Once you arrive in this historic town, explore the Brockville Railway Tunnel — Canada’s first (and oldest) train tunnel. It dates back to the 1800s and spans 525 metres long, from Water St by the bank of the St. Lawrence River to its exit, just past Pearl St.

Visitors can stroll through the tunnel and enjoy its steadily chilly year-round temperature of 13 degrees Celsius to escape the extreme heat or cold. Admission is free and the tunnel is typically open 7 days/week from 9 am-9 pm throughout the year (and from April to November, you can enjoy public tours of the tunnel). In the afternoon, visit the Brockville Arts Centre. It’s a spacious heritage theatre located in the heart of Brockville, featuring everything from live theatre and music to movies and musicals.

For a more scenic view of the town, head to the Brock Trail — this 7 km walking and cycling path begins along Brockville’s gorgeous waterfront in the downtown core, travels through the railway tunnel, continues to Blockhouse Island, and then on to Hardy Park, Rotary Park, and along Buell’s Creek to the north end. Bonus: A newly added section of the trail gives travellers/commuters the option to head west to St. Lawrence Park and north to the Mac Johnson Wildlife Conservation Area (so you’ll definitely get to see lots of sights along the way!)

The second most charming Ontario town to make the list is Owen Sound. This Southwestern Ontario city is located on an inlet of Georgian Bay. It’s about a 3-hour drive from Toronto, but its gorgeous scenery makes it well worth the trip. The town has 13 parks and four museums. And there are tons of activities for tourists and locals alike! Harrison Park spans more than 40 hectares, and has tons of streams, trails, gardens, playgrounds, forests, and green space ripe for exploration. The trails will connect you to the Bruce Trail, a 41-km route that is the longest (and oldest) footpath in Canada. Follow along to Inglis Falls, which is just south of the city and is recognized as the best waterfall in the area. Or for a breathtaking view of the city, visit the Centennial Tower — it’s one of the highest points in Owen Sound! Before you leave, make sure to dine at one of the town’s more than 70 eateries, and purchase locally sourced ingredients from the Owen Sound Farmers’ Market.

Of course, there are many other picturesque small towns just a short drive from Toronto to visit, and if you’re looking for a historic Ontario town where a slew of movies and TV shows are filmed, click here.