The Best Resorts in Ontario

White Oaks Conference Resort and Spa

Address: 253 Taylor Rd, Niagara-on-the-Lake
Website: whiteoaksresort.com

Located at 253 Taylor Road, Niagara-on-the-Lake, White Oaks Conference Resort and Spa has a full-scale list of amenities, including stately accommodations, celebrated restaurants, a snug spa, fitness area, ultramodern meeting spaces and glaring outdoor wedding spots. Among other things, guests will enjoy varied spa treatments, massages, fine dining options (Liv Restaurant, Play Bar + Grill, Grow Kitchen & Cafe) and fitness training sessions at an affordable price. With hotel package rates priced at $195 per person(only from Sun-Thurs) and a meal credit per person($50) for sizzling winter nights, you can enjoy a farro salad($20.5) at Liv Restaurant, a classic club($21.50) at Play Bar + Grill, and a signature creamsicle($9.50) at Grow Kitchen & Café. Not to forget, you’ll find nearby top venues like the Shaw Festival Theatre, casinos, and Niagara Falls.

JW Marriott The Rosseau Muskoka Resort & Spa

Address: 1050 Paignton House Rd, Minett
Website: marriott.com

This exalted destination nests unlimited comforts and features modernized suites, dining spots, present-day venues that entertain business meetings and weddings. Located at 1050 Paignton House Road, Minett, you will explore favoured inclusions, a fitness centre, hiking trails, jet skiing, sand beaches, indoor/outdoor pool, on-site facilities including HydroSpa Muskoka and the Rosseau Fitness Centre and within reach is the Muskoka Lakes Farm and Winery. You will also catch a beautiful sight of Lake Rosseau. Coupled with distinct restaurants, grabbing savoury meals shouldn’t be difficult. One of them is the Cottages Restaurant, which serves a versatile menu. A smoked salmon plate goes for $24 while at the Teca “simply Italian” joint, a classic tiramisu  dessert is $11.

Read our review from a previous visit to this Marriot resort.

Touchstone Resort

Address: 1869 Muskoka District Road 118 West, Bracebridge
Website: touchstoneresort.com

Situated at 1869 Muskoka District Road 118 West, Bracebridge, this location pledges to provide a memorable stay alongside suites, picturesque lake sights, specialty cuisine at the Touchstone Grill, fitness area, patio, tennis courts, an exclusive sandy beach, fire pit, boat dock, including snowshoeing and ice skating. One can indulge in Lift Summum Facial for 50 min ($145) or treat oneself to the Amba Signature Packages (Pure Balance treatment for $207 in a 2 hour soothing session) or other spa therapies.

Great Wolf Lodge Water Park Resort

Address: 3950 Victoria Ave, Niagara Falls
Website: greatwolf.com/niagara

This Niagara Falls location epitomizes scenic grandeur and features an impressive mix of vital amenities. From the water parks, dynamic attractions, fitness room, suites, abundant dining spots with buffet and dietary accommodations, meeting/event spaces, Arcade games stations,  this family-friendly destination offers inviting packages like the Wolf Pass( $179.99 per package), Paw Pass ($74.99 per package),  Pup Pass ($54.99 per package), and a broad adult meal deal($59.99 per adult).

Oakwood Resort

Address: 70671 Bluewater Hwy, Grand Bend
Website: oakwoodresort.ca

Located on the sandy shores of Lake Huron near Grand Bend, Oakwood Resort is a charming family-run getaway that combines the comfort of a lakeside retreat with the amenities of a full resort. Just three hours west of Toronto, it features an 18-hole golf course, private beach access, indoor pool and hot tubs, tennis courts, and several dining options including the popular Dave’s Pub & Grill. Accommodations range from cozy suites with fireplaces to spacious cottages with full kitchens, perfect for couples, families, or group getaways.

Guests can enjoy Grand Bend’s lively beach scene or explore nearby Bayfield’s quaint shops and pubs. Whether you’re lounging lakeside in summer, cozying up indoors during a storm, or cross-country skiing in winter, Oakwood Resort offers a welcoming, year-round escape where relaxation and Ontario charm meet.

Read our article on Oakwood Resort from a previous visit.

Deerhurst Resort

Address: 1235 Deerhurst Dr, Huntsville
Website: deerhurstresort.com

Located at 1235 Deerhurst Drive, Huntsville, this magnificent resort boasts outstanding amenities and provides all year-round accommodations to revitalize guests. Additionally, you can immerse yourself in golf & other recreational activities, live music, ice skating, see artworks at the in-house Eclipse Art Gallery and enjoy breakfast, lunch and dinner menu options at one of the restaurants in the resort. With affordable vacation package rates, one can get an Amba Spa credit for spa services at $100 per night.

Sir Sam’s Inn & Spa

Address: 1491 Sir Sams’s Rd, Eagle Lake
Website: sirsamsinn.com

Sir Sam’s Inn & Spa can be found at 1491 Sir Sams’s Rd., Eagle Lake. Noted as one of Ontario’s finest couples’ resorts, this haven features intimate lodges, roomy balconies, spa treatments & fireplaces, recreation choices, a lovely lakeside adjacent to Eagle Lake and to top it, a superb location for weddings and enjoying a special dining experience with budget-friendly packages. One can also revel in a Hot Stone Massage for $130 (60 mins) and enjoy meals like a Grilled bison burger on a brioche bun($26) from a broad menu at the resort’s restaurant, Twin Fires.

Hockley Valley Resort

Address: 793522 3rd Line EHS, Mono
Website: hockley.com

If you are looking for charming guestrooms with a plethora of treatment options like fancy eateries, indoor/outdoor pools, sauna and spa, ski and snowboard season passes, and a captivating 18-hole golf links, Hockley Valley Resort will nobly welcome you. Located at 793522 Mono 3rd Line, Mono, adventurers and foodies can select from an assorted menu list, from the Cabin and Babbo restaurant and delight in the winter culinary theatre, the Snow Globes ($155 per person/five course dinner & wine delights).

Check out our review from our previous visit to Hockley Valley Resort.

Eganridge Resort, Golf Club & Spa

Address: 26 Country Club Dr, Fenelon Falls
Website: eganridge.com

Nestled in Fenelon Falls, this resort commands stunning views and much more exciting is the proximity to Sturgeon Lake. Guests can experience the intimate waterfront, in-house golf course and the Cosmopolitan Salon & Spa. Perfect for date nights, a staycation, likewise business dinner, guests can enjoy either an extensive or seasonal menu at an economical price. With a breakfast and dinner package, overnight accommodations are also guaranteed.

Couples Resort

Address: 139 Galeairy Lake Rd, Whitney
Website: couplesresort.ca

An excellent hideaway for couples and honeymooners, this 5-star resort is perched on the waterside of Galeairy Lake (Algonquin Park). The resort boasts a plentiful number of dreamy activities and guests can enjoy 5-course European style dishes accompanied with a room service option. An all-inclusive package is provided, including an exclusive outdoor hot tub, wood burning fireplace, gym space, a daily guest pass for wildlife exploration and museums at Algonquin Park, and wellness treatments like the Rejuvenating Body Package( $384.00 for 3 hours) or the Registered Massage Therapy($96 for 30 min).

Ste. Anne’s Spa

Address: 1009 Massey Rd, Grafton
Website: steannes.com

Located at 1009 Massey Road, Grafton, this state-of-the-art spa is acclaimed for its comprehensive spa and wellbeing packages. Even if it’s for an entire day outing, guests can access hiking trails and a rejuvenating scenery complemented with $150 allowance towards your wellness adventure. An in-house gluten-free bakery is also available and additional alternatives for afternoon tea, inclusive of breakfast, lunch, and dinner food items.

Check out our article about Ste. Anne’s Spa.

*Please note that the resort prices might fluctuate due to occupancy, time of year and more, and it would be best to reach these locations for further updates.

The post The Best Resorts in Ontario appeared first on Toronto Guardian.

Surrounded by forests, rivers, and trails, Pembroke is ideal for visitors who love both history and the outdoors. From its historic landmarks, like the Champlain Trail Museum and the Pembroke Armoury, to picturesque riverfront paths and local parks, there’s a lot to explore. The community is known for its warm hospitality, annual festivals, and thriving arts scene, making it more than just a stop on a road trip—it’s a destination worth lingering in.

For this road trip, we partnered with Toyota Canada to access their press fleet, and I selected the Toyota Corolla Hatchback—a compact, reliable, and surprisingly fun car. It handled the open highways and winding rural roads with ease, while offering excellent fuel economy and a comfortable ride. Between stretches of highway and scenic backroads, the Corolla Hatchback proved to be the perfect companion for a drive from Toronto to Pembroke, blending practicality with just enough sporty charm to keep the journey enjoyable.

Here are some of our favourite things we found to do while visiting Pembroke.

What to Do and Where to Eat in Pembroke

The main street in town has all the shopping you will need. Apart from the big box stores like Wal-Mart, Canadian Tire, Winners, Michael’s and Home Depot, the town of Pembroke’s main street is full of cute boutique shops and attractions to visit. From clothing to sports to food and stationery you are sure to fond something for everyone here.

What to Do

Upper Ottawa Valley Heritage Centre

Address: 1032 Pembroke St E, Pembroke
Website: champlaintrailmuseum.com

Perched on Pembroke Street East, the Champlain Trail Museum and Pioneer Village, now known as the Upper Ottawa Valley Heritage Centre, is a living history gem in the city. The main gallery features a restored Corliss steam engine and exhibits that showcase the region’s past, including a replica of Samuel de Champlain’s astrolabe, a Cockburn pointer boat, and Pembroke’s first motorized fire engine from 1923. Outside, the museum extends into a pioneer village with historic buildings such as the SS‑1 Lowertown Schoolhouse, an 1879 log home, a blacksmith’s shop, and a Micksburg church. Operated by the Ottawa Valley Historical Society, the heritage centre offers a fascinating glimpse into the people, industries, and stories that shaped the Ottawa Valley.

Riverside Park Beach

Address: Pembroke
Website: riversidepark.net

Riverside Park Beach in Pembroke is a wonderful riverside retreat right on the Ottawa River, located in the city’s 75-acre Riverside Park. The swimming area is carefully marked off by buoys and features a gently sloping, sandy riverbed — making it a safe, family-friendly spot for a dip. The beach itself is made up of medium-to-coarse sand, and lifeguards are on duty during the summer. Around the beach, you’ll also find a wealth of amenities: public restrooms, a splash pad, playgrounds, ball diamonds, mini-golf, and a snack bar. The park is more than just a beach — it’s a full recreation hub with a campground, walking trails, and links to the broader waterfront via a 1.5 km Kiwanis walkway. It’s a laid-back place where locals and visitors come together to relax, play, swim, and enjoy sunshine along the river.

Skylight Drive-In

Address: 199 Forest Lea Rd, Pembroke
Website: skylightdrivein.com

Skylight Drive‑In in Pembroke, Ontario is a beautifully nostalgic outdoor movie theatre that’s been delighting audiences since 1954. Sitting at 199 Forest Lea Road, this single-screen drive-in has room for roughly 350 cars and operates seasonally from late May through Thanksgiving. As the sun sets, movies begin back-to-back on digital projection, with sound broadcast directly into your car over FM 106.7, creating that classic “movie under the stars” experience.

One of the most charming parts of Skylight is how welcoming it feels: there’s a playground for kids to stretch their legs between films, and leashed pets are allowed, so the whole family can join in. They run a flat “carload” rate — making it easy and budget-friendly for a group to come together. The venue also hosts fun community events, like their annual Spooky Movie Night in October, complete with a costume contest and free popcorn for attendees.

Pick It Fence

Address: 161 Pembroke St W, Pembroke
Website: pickitfence.ca

Pick‑It‑Fence in Pembroke is a cozy, beautifully curated gift shop located right in the heart of town at 161 Pembroke Street West. Under the entrepreneurial leadership of Emma, who took over the store at just 19, Pick‑It‑Fence offers a warm, welcoming space where every corner feels thoughtfully styled. You’ll find a rotating selection of home décor, unique accessories, candles, and seasonal treasures — perfect for finding a meaningful gift or little treat for yourself. The staff are known for their friendliness, and the shop’s inventory is always evolving, which means every visit can feel like a fresh discovery.

Hugli’s Blueberry Ranch, Country Market & Play Park

Address: 2139 Greenwood Rd, Pembroke
Website: blueberryranch.ca

Hugli’s Blueberry Ranch, just outside Pembroke on Greenwood Road, is a delightful agri‑tourism destination that combines berry-picking fun with family-friendly charm. On their 17-acre farm, you can pick your own high-bush blueberries during the season, or explore the corn maze, visit a petting zoo with llamas, goats, miniature horses and more, and enjoy wagon rides. The ranch also has a country market and bake shop where you can sample fresh‑made blueberry fudge, pies, jams, and ice cream. In the fall, the fun continues with a pumpkin patch, pig races, and seasonal events. It’s not just a farm — it’s a place to soak up the pastoral beauty of the Ottawa Valley, reconnect with nature, and make some sweet, edible memories.

Other notable places to check out are:

• Bob’s Music
• Canadian Baby Co.
• Collective Growers
• Colony Skateboard Shop and School
• Ottawa Valley Apparel
• West On Main
• White Pine Yoga

Where to Eat

The Nook Crêperie

Address: 26 Pembroke St W, Pembroke
Website: nookcreperie.ca

The Nook Crêperie in downtown Pembroke is a cozy, rustic bistro that brings a taste of Paris to the Ottawa Valley. Located at 26 Pembroke Street West, it’s beloved for its gourmet crêpes—both sweet and savoury—made from scratch using fresh, high-quality ingredients. What makes the Nook special is its fusion-inspired menu: you’ll find crêpes filled with everything from smoked salmon and goat cheese to indulgent chocolate and fruit. The atmosphere is warm and intimate, with brick walls, comfy booths, and a relaxed vibe. It’s also a fully licensed spot, so you can pair your meal with a glass of wine, a bottle of beer, or a rich espresso. Whether you’re dropping in for brunch, lunch, or dinner, the Nook Crêperie feels like a charming, hidden gem in Pembroke’s downtown.

7th Heaven Sweet

Address: 74 Pembroke St W, Pembroke
Website: 7thheavensweets.com

7th Heaven Sweets in downtown Pembroke is a delightful bakery that feels like a sweet lover’s dream. Located at 74 Pembroke Street West, the shop is known for its warm, welcoming atmosphere and beautifully crafted treats. Their menu features custom cakes — including stunning designs with gold accents — as well as cheesecake brownies, macarons, and a rotating selection of pastries. The owners and staff are frequently praised for their attention to detail and friendly service, making every visit feel like a cozy, personalized experience. Whether you’re popping in for a special occasion cake or just craving something indulgent, 7th Heaven Sweets is a must-visit on your Pembroke trip.

The Courtyard Bistro

Address: 66 Pembroke St W, Pembroke
Website: thecourtyardbistro.ca

The Courtyard Bistro (66 Pembroke St. W) is one of those warm, inviting spots in downtown Pembroke that feels both relaxed and a little elevated. With exposed brick, wood, and wrought-iron accents, the ambiance strikes a cozy balance between rustic charm and modern bistro sophistication. Their menu features a variety of well‑crafted dishes — from fresh soups and salads to flatbreads, pasta, and steaks — with plenty of options for gluten-free and plant-based diners. One thing they’re especially known for? Their cheesecakes — rich, creative, and a real highlight whether you’re ending your meal on a sweet note or just dropping by for dessert. Their courtyard patio and thoughtful service make it a go-to for a laid-back lunch, a date night, or a satisfying dinner stop during your Pembroke adventures.

Little Things Eatery

Address: 100 Pembroke St W, Pembroke
Website: littlethingscanning.com

Little Things Canning Company is a wonderfully homey and community‑oriented spot in downtown Pembroke, located at 100 Pembroke Street West. What started as a small homemade canning business has blossomed into a full shop that offers not only a wide variety of pickled and preserved goods (think beans, beets, asparagus, and their famous dilled carrots), but also fresh grab‑and‑go lunches, home-style freezer meals, and baked goods. They emphasize local and Canadian-made products, and many of their grocery items come from Ontario small businesses. The shop’s warm, rustic atmosphere—with high ceilings, exposed brick, and handcrafted shelving—is matched by a genuine passion for good, wholesome food and thoughtful supporting of the local foodie community.

Loaf Artisan Bakery

Address: 201 Pembroke St W, Pembroke
Website: loafartisanbakery.com

Loaf Artisan Bakery & Café is a beloved downtown Pembroke spot, located at 201 Pembroke Street West, that truly lives up to its name. The bakery’s cozy, welcoming atmosphere makes it a go-to for locals and visitors alike. Inside, you’ll find a beautiful selection of freshly baked breads—like sourdough and hearty artisan loaves—alongside a tempting array of pastries, croissants, and sandwiches. Their lunch offerings are solid, with well-made subs and light fare that pairs perfectly with a house coffee. With its warm service, high-quality, locally inspired baked goods, and an overall vibe that feels both relaxed and crafted, Loaf is a must-stop for any foodie road trip through Pembroke.

The Butcher’s Wife

Address: 218 Pembroke St W, Pembroke
Website: thebutcherswifepembroke.com

The Butcher’s Wife in downtown Pembroke is an elegant yet welcoming restaurant that feels like a refined European brasserie planted right in the heart of the Ottawa Valley. With a menu inspired by fresh, locally sourced ingredients, it offers a thoughtful mix of upscale comfort food — think perfectly seared steaks, rich bone marrow, and delicate seafood dishes — all paired with a curated wine and cocktail list. The decor strikes a balance between sophistication and warmth, making the space feel intimate without being pretentious. Guests consistently praise the attentive service, cozy ambiance, and high quality of both food and drink, calling it one of Pembroke’s standout dining destinations.

Pembroke is one of those Ontario towns that surprises you with how much it has to offer — from its historic downtown and riverside charm to the trails, parks, and restaurants that make it an ideal weekend destination. Whether you’re exploring the Ottawa Valley for the first time or revisiting for a quiet escape, Pembroke offers that perfect mix of small-town warmth and outdoor adventure.

The post What to do and where to eat in Pembroke, Ontario appeared first on Toronto Guardian.

Known as Ontario’s West Coast, the region offers endless possibilities for visitors. On our recent day trip, we followed a delicious adventure along the Tasty Trail—a route filled with family-owned farms, markets, and friendly locals passionate about what we eat and where it comes from.

You can easily plan your own visit—just check Huron County’s website or social media for hours and activities. Or, for a more seamless experience, book a guided group outing through The Foodies Group and let them take care of the details.

Here are some places we visited and the people we met along the way…

Meeting Place Organic Farm: 86016 Creek Line, RR1, Lucknow

Tony and Fran McQuail began their family farm back in 1973 with just a single barn. Over the years, their daughter Katrina and hubby Ben joined in, and together they’ve transformed the property into the beautiful Meeting Place Organic Farm, a thriving 100-acre operation rooted in sustainability. Early advocates of eco-conscious farming, the McQuails were pioneers in introducing sustainable practices to the region and continue to champion Holistic Resource Management today.

The farm is home to 100% certified organic, grass-fed cattle, organically raised chickens, and pastured pigs. They also produce organic eggs, apples, butters, vegetables, and herbs. (Bonus: you can even order their products for delivery to Toronto on select dates!)

During our visit, the McQuail family welcomed us to explore the animals and orchards. Over lunch, we sat down with Katrina to learn more about the farm’s rich history and community roots—all while creating our own fall bouquets from the vibrant wildflowers growing in their lush gardens.

Green’s Meat Market: 237 Arthur Street, Wingham

For over 50 years, the Green family has proudly operated this family-run meat shop and abattoir, serving and supporting the local community. Now in its third generation, the business is run by the Green sisters, who continue the family’s tradition of offering custom processing and wholesale cutting—just as the generations before them did.

Their popular full-service retail shop is a favourite among locals, visitors, and cottagers alike, offering the freshest locally sourced cuts of meat, house-made sausages, and unique regional specialties.

We couldn’t resist picking up a few items to take home in our coolers—along with some ready-to-eat pepperettes and summer sausages for the road.

Red Door Milling, Cafe & Pannenkoeken, and Flour Mill: 5 Clyde Street, Bluevale

This must-stop destination, set amid the rolling hills of Huron County, offers two experiences in one. First, it’s a small-batch flour mill specializing in whole wheat heritage grains. Their signature Red Fife Flour—known for its rich, nutty flavour—is a favourite among chefs far and wide. You can even purchase (or let’s be honest, hoard) some to take home directly from the mill.

Then, head over to their cozy café, where you can enjoy traditional Dutch pannenkoeken (pancakes)—a house specialty available in both sweet and savoury options—alongside freshly baked pastries, all made using their own freshly milled flour.

Capella Meadows Artisanal Goat Cheese: 44053 Moncrieff Rd, Brussels

We met owner Edda—and the happiest goats you’ve ever seen! During our visit, we learned firsthand about the art of crafting exceptional natural goat cheese at this organically certified small farm. Every cheese is made without additives, and yes—you can absolutely taste the difference.

Capella Meadows cheeses are available through fine purveyors across the province, but visitors can also pick up their favourites directly from their on-site shop and meet the goats!

Blake’s Apple Orchards: 42933 St Michaels Road, Brussels

No trip to Ontario’s countryside is complete without a stop at an orchard during apple season! This family-owned farm, established in 1949, offers both pick-your-own experiences and a charming retail shop.

There’s truly nothing like a freshly picked apple—the juicy, crunchy sweetness feels like nature’s gift to our taste buds. The orchard grows a variety of apples to suit every palate, including Honeycrisp, Ginger Gold, Russet, McIntosh, and Royal Gala.

Lavender Works Company: 44072 Newry Road, Brussels

The prettiest lavender farm was the perfect final stop on our day’s adventure. Owner Julianne’s charming shop is filled with dreamy, lavender-infused treasures—perfect for gifting (or for treating ourselves and our homes). Inside a spacious rustic room, hundreds of lavender stems hang to dry naturally, filling the air with their calming scent. Every product is small-batch and handcrafted right on the premises, adding to the farm’s authentic charm. If we could move in, we probably would!

We were surprised to learn there’s more than one type of lavender grown here — six varieties, in fact—all cultivated without pesticides. The farm sits on land that’s been in Julianne’s husband’s family for over 40 years, adding a beautiful layer of heritage to this fragrant haven.

And just a thought—this would be the dreamiest spot for a wedding proposal, surrounded by rows of blooming lavender swaying in the breeze!

WHO SHOULD GO?

It’s a fun day out for anyone looking for an escape from the city. Couples, families, friends getaway, even for a great team outing, any time of the year.  There’s always something happening!

VISITOR TIPS:

Dress for the weather – layers, proper footwear

Bring hand wipes for your road trip.

Bring a cooler bag – you’ll want to bring home a taste of Huron County!

Most farms take credit and debit cards

Be mindful of animals and handling, and check with the farmers and families.

Bring an extra pair of shoes or boots for mucking around.

Leave nothing behind!

WANT TO STAY OVERNIGHT?

Head to nearby towns like Blyth that offer options for overnight stays. There are now several cozy places along Main Street that have accommodations above shops. You can also find plenty of Bed & Breakfasts, Cottages, and Inns here.

The post Daytripper: Explore the Tasty Trails of Huron County appeared first on Toronto Guardian.

EAT:

BARDŌ: 105 Gordon Street

Known for its seasonal and locally sourced ingredients, Bardō’s farm-to-table ethos can be found any day of the week. The restaurant’s motto, “good ingredients matter,” makes this hands-down favourite for locals and visitors alike. Their Weekend “All-You-Can-Enjoy” brunch is a can’t miss indulgence. What to expect? The buffet offers both countertop offerings complete with pizzas, salads, charcuterie items, chia puddings, smoked fish, fresh bakery goods and so much more. But that’s just the first half! You can also enjoy fresh and made-to-order items from the brunch menu – including Eggs Benedict, Chilaquiles, Shakshouka, Avocado Toast, Fried Chicken, Steak and Eggs, Pancakes, Buckwheat Blinis, and duck prosciutto with beans.

The weekend brunch also comes with two alcoholic (or non-alcoholic) drinks as well as endless coffee, tea, or pop.

Brother’s Brewery: 15 Wyndham Street North

It’s a bar, a bottle shop, and a community hub offering 12 taps of house brewed craft beer. They also have communal workshops, food pop-ups, local bands and entertainment. Also find board games, sketchbooks, and a few other activities for a fun time.

The Famous Owl of Minerva: 35 Harvard Road

This popular casual Korean restaurant chain is a favourite amongst students. They serve up hearty and delicious traditional dishes including bulgogi, pork bone soup, jap chae glass noodles, dumplings and bibimbap rice bowls. It may be worth noting that spicy kimchi (fermented cabbage) is a great immune-booster!

EXPLORE:

Donkey Sanctuary of Canada: 6981 Concession 4

Every year, from the first Sunday in May to the last Sunday in October, the Donkey Sanctuary of Canada (not-for-profit charity) is open to the public. They’ve been providing a home of peace and tranquillity to rescued donkeys, mules and hinnies since 1992. At present, they have more than 100 equines in residence. Visitors can learn more about the animals and the Sanctuary’s mission.

Guelph Civic Museum: 52 Norfolk Street

This museum showcases Guelph’s history through permanent and changing exhibits, a fun and interactive families gallery, and special events and activities.  Located in the recently renovated Loretto Convent, atop the hill at Norfolk Street and beside the landmark Church of Our Lady, the museum is home to a collection of over 30,000 artifacts that bring Guelph’s past to life.

Aberfoyle Antique Market: 57 Brock Road South, Puslinch, Every Sunday, 8 am to 4 pm.

This popular antique market is a favourite amongst day-trippers and collectors to the area. Find some unique items for the home that tell their own stories.

Historical Walking Tour with the Guelph Arts Council: Various Dates

Learn about Guelph’s history while taking in the beautiful architectural and natural features of the city through six different guided Historical Walking Tours. Start with Tour 1 “Where Guelph Began” that  encircles the original Market Square area of almost twenty-four acres laid out by John Galt in 1827. Serving as the focal point for Guelph’s early social and business life, the area also contains the sites of many of Guelph’s first buildings.

Strom’s Farm & Bakery: Opens September 19 to October 31

This second-generation family-owned and operated farm officially opens for the fall pumpkin season and loaded with family fun, with mazes, wagon rides, walking trails, fire pit snacks, entertainment and much more. Pick up a pumpkin or two, and don’t forget your butter tarts at the bakery! Ticketed entry.

Guelph Thrifting & Consignment Trail: Various locations

Thrifting in small towns has become a real treasure trove of great finds. Guelph has many great options that there is even a 16-shop map available (see @smittenguelph on social to find out more).

UPCOMING EVENTS:

Haunted Candlelight Concert: Royal City Mission Church, October 25, 4:30 pm and 8:45 pm

This Fever Candlelight concert brings the magic of a live, multi-sensory musical experience to awe-inspiring locations like never seen before in Guelph. Get your tickets now to discover music inspired by Halloween at Royal City Mission Church under the gentle glow of candlelight. Set list includes Michael Jackson’s Thriller,  Stranger Things (Theme), Beetlejuice (Theme), Danse Macabre, Prelude from Psycho, Funeral March of a Marionette and more.  Ticketed event. Recommended for ages 8 and up.

Guelph Potters Market: Delta Hotels Guelph Conference Centre, November 1 and 2

Explore a world of handmade pottery in this inspiring weekend market. Browse one-of-a-kind items, find unique gifts for everyone on your list, or treat yourself to something unique made by local artisans.

Have you made a day trip to the area? Let us know your favourite spots!

The post Daytripper: Best Things to See, Eat and Do in Guelph appeared first on Toronto Guardian.

The park’s star attraction is Mazinaw Rock, a massive granite cliff that towers 100 metres above Mazinaw Lake and stretches for more than a kilometre and a half. The name “Bon Echo” comes from the way sound bounces dramatically off the cliff face. Even more powerful than the echo are the hundreds of Indigenous pictographs painted in red ochre on the rock. It’s Canada’s largest visible collection, and seeing them up close feels like stepping into living history.

On the Road: From Cityscape to Woodland

Once I had my background research done, it was time to hit the road. I packed up my camping gear, snacks, and supplies into the Mazda CX-5 I’d borrowed from the press fleet. For a trip like this, it was a great choice—comfortable on the highway, roomy enough for bulky equipment, and with just the right tech to make the hours roll by.

The drive itself was classic Ontario. Leaving Toronto, I cut past Peterborough and rolled through stretches of farmland, gentle hills, and pine forests that grew taller and denser the farther north I went. There’s a point on the drive when you feel the pace of the city slip away, and by the time I reached Cloyne, that shift was complete. The air felt clearer, the roads quieter, and the anticipation of campfires and star-filled skies started to take over.

Arriving at Bon Echo

Pulling into Bon Echo, I was immediately struck by the sight of Mazinaw Rock. Photos don’t prepare you for the scale of it—a sheer wall of granite rising out of the lake like some ancient fortress. Paddling near its base, your voice comes back to you, echoing off the stone, almost as if the land itself is answering. Then there are the pictographs: red ochre markings of animals, shapes, and symbols left centuries ago. Standing before them, I felt less like a camper arriving at a park and more like a visitor to something sacred.

What Bon Echo Has to Offer

There’s no shortage of ways to experience the park. Canoes, kayaks, and paddleboards are available to rent, and they’re the best way to see the cliff and its pictographs up close. If you’d rather stay dry, the Mugwump Ferry offers a guided ride across the lake. Adventurous paddlers can take on the 21-kilometre Kishkebus canoe route, complete with a portage through backcountry waterways.

The hiking trails are just as varied. The Cliff-Top Trail rewards the climb with sweeping views over Mazinaw Rock and the lake, while the Abes and Essens Trail offers loops up to 17 kilometres for those ready to really test themselves. For something gentler, there are family-friendly walks like the Shield Trail and the High Pines Trail.

Camping is another highlight. Bon Echo has more than 400 car campsites, some with electricity and full amenities, plus backcountry sites for those who want to rough it. Walk-in sites offer a middle ground, while yurts, cabins, and the park’s “Cabin on the Hill” provide cozy shelter for anyone seeking comfort without giving up that wilderness setting.

On hot days, there are three beaches to choose from. South Beach is grassy and shallow—perfect for little kids. Main Beach is sandy and popular, with picnic tables and grills for a full day by the water. North Beach is quieter, with shade and views of Mazinaw Rock.

Beyond the obvious, Bon Echo also offers rock climbing (organized by the Alpine Club of Canada), discovery programs for kids and families, and a visitor centre with exhibits that trace the park’s history, including the days when a grand inn once stood here. Wildlife is abundant, too—I spotted loons and woodpeckers on my trip, and birdwatchers can find more than 200 species in the area.

Quick Tips I Learned

• Book early: Sites, cabins, and yurts fill quickly in peak season.

• Respect the pictographs: They’re sacred, so admire without touching.

• Be prepared: Trails, especially backcountry ones, can be rugged—proper footwear and water are musts.

• Arrive early: Beaches and picnic areas fill up fast on weekends.

• Check fire rules: Fire bans are sometimes in effect, so plan your meals accordingly.

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