Drayton, ON, and then what?
 

We're thinking of going to the music festival in Drayton in mid-August. I'd like to stay overnight somewhere but I'm not too familiar with that area. I'm looking for a town within about an hour's drive from Drayton but not an hour that would take me much farther from Toronto. We'd want to stay in a nice inn or B&B or even a nice motel and browse a charming town on the next day (which would be Sunday).

As far as I can see, towns which might fit the bill in terms of location are:

Fergus
Elora
Elmira
Erin
or Drayton itself.
Any others?

Ideas? Suggestions? And if you have any lodging suggestions, I'd love to hear them as well.

Thanks so much!
gtg

Elora is a picturesque little town with a number of shops and a few cafes & restaurants. It is perched just above a waterfall and scenic gorge section of the Grand River. Unfortunately the historic and beautifully set Elora Mill Inn is, I think, still closed (undergoing renovations by the new owners).

Fergus is a pleasant small town although I think Elora offers more art and specialty shops to browse. I wouldn't choose Elmira. However another nearby alternative worth considering is St. Jacobs. I think the tourist area, while still village-like, is probably larger than Elora's with quite a few boutiques, craft and specialty shops. Check out http://www.stjacobs.com/packages . There is a very popular farmers and craft market in the south section of St. Jacobs (actually the north end of Waterloo) which, in the summer, opens Saturdays (and Tuesday and Thursday) but unfortunately not Sunday, although the adjacent Outlet Mall and Furniture Stores would be open. From St. Jacobs, the Conestoga Expressway (Hwy 85/7/8) through Kitchener/Waterloo offers relatively quick access to the 401 for your drive home.

Thanks so much, mat. That's a great help!

I agree that Elora is a nice little spot to spend some time in and browse.
We enjoy day trips there.

I'm going to suggest Elora to our friends.
Thanks

If you are interested in an antique/flea market, there is a big and interesting one in Aberfoyle which is close to 401. A meal in the Aberfoyle Mill is also worthwhile. They have a brunch buffet on Sundays, I believe.

My friend just mentioned Aberfoyle too so that might be a good plan. Thanks, ET.