Great Itineraries

Great Itineraries

You could spend several months exploring this enormous province and still not see it all. But if your time is limited, consider one of these itineraries covering the southern part of the province. You might choose one or a combination of these excursions, depending on how many days you have. You can take in most of the major sights in just a few days, plus see some special little corners that even many Ontarians don't know about.

If You Have 3 Days

Spend two days and nights in Canada's capital city, Ottawa,and Gatineau (formerly called Hull). Tour Ottawa's Parliament Buildings and the city's colorful downtown, and take an excursion to neighboring Gatineau, for a panoramic view of Parliament from the excellent Museum of Civilization. On Day 3 drive to Morrisburg and Upper Canada Village,a superbly re-created pre-Confederation community of the 1860s. Then set out for Prescott,where you can rediscover the War of 1812 at Fort Wellington National Historic Site. You can easily return to Ottawa the same day.

If You Have 5 Days

Base yourself in the charming town of Niagara-on-the-Lake,where you may want to spend at least two days to take in everything. There are historic sites and heritage buildings galore, plus a horde of interesting shops and renowned restaurants. Several of the famous old inns have been renovated to luxury standards, complete with spas and sumptuous cuisine. The Shaw Festival provides excellent entertainment in summer. Spend the evening of Day 1 plus Day 2 in town, enjoy a play, and set out on Day 3 to tour the Niagara Wine Region vineyards and wineries of the flourishing Niagara Peninsula. On Day 4 consider an overnight trip to Stratford,160 km (100 mi) from Niagara-on-the-Lake, home of the acclaimed Stratford Festival and terrific restaurants, or head straight on to the hustle and excitement of Niagara Falls,a short 15-km (9-mi) drive away. Even if you plan to spend Day 5 at the falls, it's unlikely you can take in all the essentials, but you can come close. Park your car and hop aboard the People Mover, an inexpensive shuttle. It stops where you catch the major tours, from Journey Behind the Falls to the Whirlpool Aerocar and Maid of the Mist. You can also fly over the gorge in a helicopter, check out the wax museums on Clifton Hill, and ride to the top of a viewing tower. If you long for respite, drop into the Butterfly Conservatory. On the last night of your five-day tour, fall asleep to the thunder of the falls, knowing you've almost seen it all.