Image Source: Pixabay
Ontario is brimming with scenic destinations, but some of the best towns in Ontario are found in its smaller communities. Ontario has numerous small towns home to over 16 million people, each offering unique experiences and hidden gems waiting to be discovered. We’ve shown you where to go ice skating in Ontario, and now we’ll take you on a quick tour of the best small towns in Ontario if you’re looking for a quick escape that’s not far from home.
After bookmarking this post, list your cannabis must-haves to pick up when you arrive—True North Cannabis Co. will be happy to provide you with all your essentials during your Ontario small-town getaway!
1. Niagara-on-the-Lake
Niagara-on-the-Lake is a sweet little town located on Lake Ontario with a perfect mix of everything from history to culture, and amazing scenery. The old buildings and streets are charming, making you feel like you’ve stepped back in time.
If you’re into history, check out Fort George National Historic Site. It’s a fascinating look into Canada’s past. And if you’re a wine person, you’re in luck! There are ample wineries available for tours and tastings.
Be sure to stroll along the waterfront—many consider this one of the best small towns in Ontario to visit for its scenic lakeside views. You can even see Toronto’s skyline across Lake Ontario on a nice day. Before you start exploring, you can always stop by the True North Cannabis Co. Niagara Falls location to prepare for your Niagara-on-the-Lake experience.
Image Source: Pexels
2. Goderich
Goderich, often called “Canada’s prettiest town,” is also one of the best small towns in Ontario to visit. This place is a real charmer, with a unique octagon-shaped town square and impressive views of Lake Huron.
The town has a rich history, seen among its many old buildings, including the Huron County Courthouse. For a fascinating look at former prison life, check out the Huron Historic Gaol.
If you love the outdoors, you’re in for a treat. Goderich has three beaches for swimming, soaking up the sun, or watching the sunset over the lake. Plus, there’s the Maitland Trail, which is perfect for a hike along the pretty Maitland River. Get ready to explore Ontario’s prettiest towns by including a visit to True North Cannabis Co. located in Goderich.
3. Huntsville
Located near Algonquin Provincial Park, Huntsville is where outdoor adventure meets small-town charm. Mess around on the lakes, hike some forest trails, or check out the cute downtown area with its shops and restaurants.
Experience the Group of Seven Outdoor Gallery with its art exhibit featuring over 90 murals of famous Canadian paintings. And in the winter, Huntsville turns into a snow-lover’s paradise with skiing, snowmobiling, and more. Before you kick off your trip to Huntsville, stop by True North Cannabis Co.’s local dispensary to make sure you’re all set for your outdoor or in-town adventures.
Image Source: Pixabay
4. Stratford
Stratford is known for more than its renowned Shakespeare Festival. It’s also one of the best small towns in Ontario near Hamilton, offering a unique blend of culture and charm. Located on the Avon River, Stratford has beautiful gardens (check out the Shakespearean Gardens), great galleries, and an impressive food scene.
Stroll through the town and check out all the Victorian buildings—it’s like taking a walk through time. And speaking of time, schedule some for the farm-to-table restaurants.
If you’re looking to enhance your Stratford adventures, True North Cannabis Co. has a location in town. Stop by and chat with our budtenders to find the right product to make that theatre performance extra special.
5. Grand Bend
With its sandy beaches and clear waters, Grand Bend is one of those cute small towns in Ontario for a quintessential summer getaway. But Grand Bend isn’t just about the beach. The downtown area is full of cool shops, tasty restaurants, and amazing nightlife. There’s always something going on. And if you’re into nature, Pinery Provincial Park is close by and worth a visit.
For a bit of culture, check out the Lambton Heritage Museum or catch a show at the Huron Country Playhouse. Before you hit the beach or anywhere else, stop by the True North Cannabis Co. Grand Bend location to get some pre-rolls or other products to make your trip even better.
Image Source: Destination Ontario
6. Paris
Paris, often called the “Prettiest Little Town in Canada,” is celebrated for its stunning scenery. A place where two rivers converge, Paris is a town that’s been inspiring artists for years. You’ll notice a European vibe, with cobblestone streets, and 19th-century buildings, including the famous Paris Plains Church.
If you like being outside, there are many trails for hiking and biking along the Grand and Nith Rivers. History buffs can check out the Paris Museum & Historical Society, and shoppers can browse the unique shops and cafes located in downtown Paris.
Before you immerse yourself in all these culturally stimulating activities, don’t forget to visit our True North Cannabis Co. Brantford store located a short drive away.
7. Aylmer
Aylmer is a charming small town in Ontario, offering a delightful blend of rural tranquillity and a strong sense of community, making it one of the best small towns near Windsor, Ontario. Known for its rich agricultural heritage, Aylmer provides a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. The annual Aylmer Fair, a long-standing tradition, vividly showcases the town’s history and deep-rooted agricultural connections.
Nature enthusiasts will be drawn to the beautiful natural surroundings, with plenty of opportunities for hiking, biking, and enjoying the outdoors. The town is also known for its festivals, including the annual Maple Syrup Festival—a sweet celebration of local tradition.
Aylmer’s downtown core is filled with unique shops, local boutiques, and quaint eateries, perfect for a stroll and some retail therapy. History buffs can explore the town’s rich past at the Aylmer-Malahide Museum and Archives.
Before embarking on your exploration of Aylmer’s unique charms, consider a stop at True North Cannabis Co. and stock up to ensure you have everything you need for a relaxing visit.
Image Source: Pexels
8. Brighton
A combination of gorgeous nature with a comfy small-town atmosphere makes Brighton one of the best small towns in Ontario to visit. Presqu’ile Provincial Park is a must-see spot, with its ideal beaches for chilling, and trails for hiking and birdwatching.
In the fall, drive the Apple Route and experience local farms, fresh cider, and apples right off the trees—it doesn’t get much more autumn than that. For a dose of adrenaline and excitement, check out the thrilling stock car races at Brighton Speedway during the summer months.
A stop in Brighton isn’t complete without visiting our True North Cannabis Co. location. We’re conveniently located on Main Street, making it easy to enhance your Brighton experience.
9. Campbellford
Campbellford is a sweet town located right on the scenic Trent River. Adding to its charm, Campbellford is known for its natural beauty and vibrant arts scene. Walk across the Ranney Gorge Suspension Bridge with its breathtaking panoramic views, or check out the iconic Giant Toonie Monument; it’s a fun, quirky photo opportunity and a celebration of local art.
If you’re an outdoorsy type, Ferris Provincial Park is where it’s at, with great camping and a whole network of hiking trails waiting to be explored. The park is the perfect place to get your nature fix and escape the hustle and bustle.
Before you dive into all that Campbellford has to offer, be sure to swing by True North Cannabis Co., conveniently located in town. We have everything you need to enhance your visit.
10. Hanover
Located in the heart of Grey County is Hanover. It’s a welcoming small town that balances all the essentials with a unique rural charm that makes it appealing to just about everyone. The scenic Saugeen River flows gracefully through the town, creating a focal point ideal for all sorts of outdoor activities and picturesque views.
For a unique and nostalgic experience, catch a movie under the stars at the classic Hanover Drive-In. Hanover Town Park offers a peaceful and meticulously maintained setting perfect for a relaxing stroll, a delightful family picnic, or an opportunity to simply unwind and soak in the beauty of nature.
Before you roll into Hanover, consider a pit stop at True North Cannabis Co. We’ve got everything you need to take that drive-in experience to the next level and make your time in Hanover even more enjoyable.
Image Source: Unsplash
11. Leamington
Leamington, which some call the “Sun Parlour of Canada,” is a lively and friendly little town with a cool mix of beautiful scenery and a long history of farming that’s made the town what it is today.
You can’t go to Leamington without checking out Point Pelee National Park, the southernmost point in Canada. It’s a great place for hiking and birdwatching, and Seacliff Beach offers the perfect spot for chilling out on the sand or taking a dip in the water.
The Leamington Arts Centre is also worth a visit to experience art from all over the area. Before you start your trip, hit up True North Cannabis Co. in Leamington. Our friendly staff can help make your visit even better.
12. Napanee
Napanee offers a real, authentic small-town experience. Take a relaxing walk through Springside Park with its scenic trails that wind along the Napanee River. The Napanee Conservation Area is also nearby and is ideal for hiking, birdwatching, and exploring nature. The Napanee River that runs through the town is one of only two rivers in the world that experiences a seiche.
For a historical trip, consider Napanee when making a list of small towns in Ontario to visit. For a trip back in time, check out the Allan Macpherson House. It’s a historic home that’s been beautifully preserved, and, according to some, is haunted!
To make sure you’re prepared for all that Napanee has to offer, stop by True North Cannabis Co. located in town. We have everything you need to enhance your local experience.
Image Source: Discover Muskoka
13. Parry Sound
Parry Sound, situated on the eastern shore of Georgian Bay, is a paradise for anyone who loves being outdoors and appreciates natural beauty—this includes a visit to Tower Hill Lookout with its panoramic views of the sparkling Sound and islands.
If you want a real outdoor adventure, consider exploring the 63 islands that make up Georgian Bay Islands National Park. And don’t miss the chance to catch a show at the Festival of the Sound, a summer music festival favourite on the Island Queen. We have a True North Cannabis Co. located in Parry Sound, offering everything you need to make your visit even more enjoyable.
14. Elora
Elora, often remarked as one of the best towns in Ontario, is known for its killer natural beauty and a thriving artsy community. It’s a picturesque town with a perfect mix of outdoor adventures and cultural experiences that will grab anyone’s attention.
Check out the Elora Gorge Conservation Area, where you can hike along the edge of some seriously towering cliffs. For a refreshing dip, hit up the crystal-clear waters of the Elora Quarry— it’s a local favourite. And if you’re into art, immerse yourself at the Elora Centre for the Arts, which showcases local talent.
Before diving into all the Elora has to offer, swing by True North Cannabis Co. in nearby Guelph. We can supply the final piece of the puzzle to make your trip that much more fun.
15. Chatham
Known as the “Classic Car Capital,” Chatham is a cool town with a ton of history and a great mix of culture and nature. For history buffs and car enthusiasts, it’s one of the best small towns in Ontario to explore. And if you’re into the outdoors, the Chatham-Kent Trail is perfect for a hike or bike ride.
The downtown area has some unique shops and local restaurants, plus Chatham hosts various classic car events from May to September. To enhance your experience, True North Cannabis Co. has two locations in Chatham—stop by and our budtenders will help get you sorted. If you’re looking to chill, we recommend our pre-rolls, or if you want to keep it discreet, we recommend our vapes!
Image Source: Discover Leeds-Grenville
16. Brockville
Brockville, aka the “City of the 1000 Islands,” is a total gem with its gorgeous waterfront and tons of history. Check out the Brockville Railway Tunnel—Canada’s first railway tunnel—featuring an amazing light show. It’s opening in May for the 2025 season and can be explored every day from 9 a.m.–9 p.m.
If you’re into the outdoors, hit up the Brock Trail. It’s a 10-kilometre path that winds along the St. Lawrence River, perfect for walking, biking, or rollerblading. You’ll get some sweet views, and there are even historical photo plaques along the way.
The Aquatarium is another must-see. An interactive experience where you can learn all about maritime life and have a blast doing it. And get this—they’re having a Mermaid extravaganza during the 2025 March Break with underwater performances!
Before you dive into all Brockville has to offer, swing by True North Cannabis Co. We have a store in town with all sorts of goodies to make your trip even better.
17. Trenton
Where the Trent River meets the Bay of Quinte is Trenton—also known as the entrance to the scenic Trent-Severn Waterway. If you’re into planes, visit the National Air Force Museum of Canada for a glimpse of various aircraft and artifacts. Plus, the Trent Port Historical Society can give you the lowdown on the town’s history.
For some outdoor fun, visit Centennial Park. It has walking trails and awesome views of the water. And starting May 31st, you can check out artisan vendors and food trucks at the park.
Before you start exploring, come by True North Cannabis Co. in Trenton. If you’re on vacation, check out our selection of edibles to relax after a long day of activities!
18. Owen Sound
Chilling between Georgian Bay and the Niagara Escarpment is Owen Sound—a sweet spot with both natural beauty and cool cultural attractions. With its waterfalls and hiking trails, it’s easy to see why Owen Sound has made its way onto this list of best small towns in Ontario.
If you’re into art, check out the Tom Thomson Art Gallery. The gallery features Thomson’s work and is a key cultural draw in Owen Sound. The downtown area also has some unique shops and restaurants, such as Mudtown Station Brewery & Restaurant, Papi’s Eatery & Lounge, or Minh’s Owen Sound Vietnamese Restaurant.
Come by True North Cannabis Co. in Owen Sound. If you’re looking for some mind-altering stuff to connect with the area, you’ve come to the right place!
Image Source: My Muskoka Now
19. Gravenhurst
As the “Gateway to Muskoka,” Gravenhurst is a charmer with its beautiful lakefront and cool history. You can hop on the RMS Segwun, North America’s oldest steamship, and get an unforgettable view of the Muskoka Lakes. The Muskoka Discovery Centre is also worth checking out with its interactive exhibits that show off the area’s culture.
If you’re into being outside, Gull Lake Rotary Park is the spot for swimming and picnics. Plus, events happen there all summer, like the Gravenhurst Farmers’ Market every Wednesday, and Cinema Under the Stars on Thursdays.
Before you dive into all the fun, swing by True North Cannabis Co. in Gravenhurst. Check out our vapes for something discreet, or some pre-rolls to help kick back by the lake!
20. Kapuskasing
Kapuskasing is a lively town in Northern Ontario that features a mix of natural beauty and cool culture. You can check out the Ron Morel Memorial Museum, located inside old rail cars for a peek into the town’s past, or spend some time by the Kapuskasing River with its eye-catching scenery and great fishing and canoeing.
When winter rolls around, Kapuskasing turns into a snowy playground, perfect for cross-country skiing and snowmobiling. Plus, the town has some fun events throughout the year, like the Kapuskasing River Walleye Tournament in August and the Festival of Lights in December.
Before you start exploring, swinging by True North Cannabis Co. is a must. We have a great selection of vapes that are perfect for spending some time in Kapuskasing!
21. Simcoe
Simcoe, a sweet town in Norfolk County, is known for its rich farming history and beautiful scenery. The Lynn Valley Trail is a must-do, offering awesome spots for hiking and biking along an old railway line. You might even spot cardinals, bluebirds, or deer.
If you can, visit during the Norfolk County Fair and Horse Show. It’s one of the biggest agricultural fairs in Ontario. The town’s downtown is also full of unique shops and local restaurants.
Enhance your trip to Simcoe by stopping at True North Cannabis Co.! Grab some gummies for your hike, try something infused, or maybe some flower, and check out the classic cars. We have everything you need to make your visit even better.
Image Source: Ontario Parks
22. Midland
Midland is tucked right on the shores of Georgian Bay and is packed with history and natural beauty. If you’re into history, Midland has a cool outdoor gallery of murals that show off the town’s past, or check out Sainte-Marie among the Hurons, which is a reconstructed 17th-century French Jesuit mission.
For nature lovers, the Wye Marsh Wildlife Centre is a must. Do some birdwatching and take nature walks. Georgian Bay is gorgeous, and the town is close to Awenda Provincial Park, which has forests, beaches, and wildlife.
Before you start exploring, swing by True North Cannabis Co., especially if you’re planning on taking in the views of Georgian Bay. For this occasion, we recommend our edibles!
23. New Liskeard
Now part of Temiskaming Shores, New Liskeard is a sweet spot on Lake Temiskaming in Northern Ontario. It has that perfect mix of natural beauty and small-town vibes. The Waterfront Park is a total gem—perfect for chilling by the lake or having a picnic with killer views.
If you’re into history, check out the Little Claybelt Homesteaders Museum. It’s open from mid-June to the third week of August and shows off the area’s pioneer days. They have interesting exhibits on the old railway and local hardware stores from times past.
Downtown New Liskeard is where it’s at for unique shops and tasty local eats. And if you’re feeling adventurous, hit up Devil’s Rock for a hike. It’s about a 20-minute walk, and the views of Lake Temiskaming from the top are breathtaking.
Before you start exploring, visit True North Cannabis Co. located in New Liskeard. We have some awesome pre-rolls that will make your hike even more chill, or grab some edibles to enjoy while relaxing at the waterfront.
24. Strathroy
Strathroy is a small town in southwestern Ontario with a cool mix of history, nature, and a strong community feel. If you’re a history buff, check out the Museum Strathroy-Caradoc, which shows off the town’s heritage and has the Sir Arthur Currie Memorial. For outdoor adventures, hit up the Strathroy Conservation Area with its scenic trails and beautiful floodplain forest.
Alexandra Park is a must-see, known for its huge oak trees and a splash pad to cool off in the summer. During the winter, the Hometown Christmas Market in downtown Strathroy is a blast. Catch a movie at the Strathroy Cineplex or check out live theatre at the Strathroy Community Theatre.
Before diving into all that, stop by True North Cannabis Co. in Strathroy. Our budtenders are experts in pairing the perfect product with any activity, so tell them what you have planned in Strathroy, and they’ll set you up!
The Best Small Towns In Ontario Have One Thing in Common: True North Cannabis Co.
True North Cannabis Co. has become Ontario’s largest independent cannabis retailer, with 50+ stores and growing across the province. From charming waterfront communities to historic towns rich in culture, True North Cannabis Co. is there to enhance your small-town Ontario experience.
Before setting out on your adventure, swing by one of our locations. Our knowledgeable budtenders can help you find the perfect product, and share some local insights on the best spots to check out. And don’t forget, if you’re over 50, you can take advantage of our Mature Buds discount for 5% off regular-priced items.
Remember, True North Cannabis Co. offers a price match guarantee. If you find a lower price for a product within the same city, we’ll beat it by 5%. So whether you’re exploring the murals of Midland or hiking the trails of Kapuskasing, True North Cannabis Co. is your go-to spot for quality cannabis at unbeatable prices.
Follow us on Instagram to stay updated on new locations and discover which small-town gem we’ll be enhancing next!
