Things to do & Places to stay in Ontario

october 5, 2021

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The best places to view the fall colours in Ontario

It’s the most beautiful time of year!  Pumpkin spice, knit sweaters, candles, and cozy slippers – you’ve got to love the hygge vibes that fall brings.  We’re lucky enough to live in the place with all four seasons, so let’s make sure to reap the rewards of that by breathing in the crisp fall air and taking in the beautiful fall colours.  In the next few weeks, the leaves will begin to change colour in a spectacular show of red, orange, and yellow.  We’ve put together a list of the best places to view the fall leaves.  As L.M. Montgomery said, “I’m so glad I live in a world where there are Octobers.”

Dundas Peak (GTA)

article1oct52021.jpgDundas Peak in Dundas Ontario is probably one of the most well-known lookout points for the fall leaves in Ontario.  And for good reason!  A short 20-minute hike brings you to a full luscious canopy of vibrant fall colours.  You’ll be overlooking the beautiful Spencer Gorge, Dundas & Hamilton which makes for an incredible photo op.  Due to its popularity, a reservation is needed in advance to see this must-see fall view.

Blue Mountains (Central ON)

article2oct52021.jpgDid you know the longest suspension bridge in Ontario can be found in the Blue Mountains?  What better way to experience fall then suspending yourself 82-feet above the valley floor to have a clear view of Georgian Bay in all its glory.  The 420-foot bridge is operated by Scenic Caves Nature Adventure.  The suspension bridge is included in park admission and takes about 45 minutes there and back.

Niagara Glen (Niagara)

article3oct52021.jpgAt the Niagara Glen you can take an amazing Autumn hike through Carolinian forest to a metal staircase that overlooks the Niagara River Gorge Whirlpool.  If the roaring river and whirlpool alone don’t blow your socks off, it’s set on a heavily forested backdrop that will transform into vibrant fall colours over the next few weeks.  Enjoy 4 km of trails, rock-climbing boulders, and the sheer force of the Niagara River whizzing by.

Rattlesnake Point Conservation Area (GTA)

article4oct52021.jpgTake a hike in the fresh fall air to the Buffalo Crag Lookout Point at Rattlesnake Point in Burlington to get a stunning view from the Niagara Escarpment.  Keep an eye out for the turkey vultures who frequent the area soaring through the sky.  Along the escarpment you’ll also find 800-year-old ancient cedars to make you really appreciate this beautiful province.  Reservations are needed to visit the park so make sure you book ahead!

Balsam Lake Lookout Point (Central ON)

article5oct52021.jpgThe Balsam Lake Lookout Trail in The Kawarthas is a 2.6 km hike that will take you about an hour and a half to complete.  Walk through an open meadow, a cedar swamp, and deciduous forest with brilliant-coloured leaves.  The Park is open during every season and is a part of the Trent-Severn Waterway.  Come recharge your mind & body on a fall hike in The Kawarthas!

Gatineau Park (Ottawa)

article6oct52021.jpg15 minutes from Downtown Ottawa & just across the Ottawa River is the largest greenspace in the region at Gatineau Park.  This is the 2nd most visited park in Canada and is a favourite viewpoint for the fall rhapsody.  You’ll be able to see the fall colours all over the downtown and the capital region so hop on a bike and go for a colourful cruise.  Book your spot and check out the fall colour meter to see where the leaves are in their colour journey before you go!

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Featured Events



Ball’s falls 47th annual thanksigiving festival

October 8–11, 2021 10am-5pm
Ball’s Falls Conservation Area

featuredevents1oct52021.jpgThe Ball’s Falls Thanksgiving Festival is back with a fantastic, modified experience! Guests will enjoy a classic family favourite, and a longstanding Niagara Tradition in a safe and familiar way.  Enjoy 50+ craft and artisan vendors, the best in local food, brews, and wines, a local farmers’ market, live acoustic music and children’s entertainment, heritage tours and demonstrations, nature hikes, and so much more.  Advanced registration is required.

PUMPKINS AFTER DARK DRIVE - THRU

On until November 7th
Milton, Ontario

featuredevents2revoct52021.jpgIn your vehicle’s comfort, you and your loved ones can safely view the Halloween exhibits on display. After dark, enjoy a drive through guided audio tours spread over 2.5 kilometers in the scenic Country Heritage Park location. With over 150 unique, hand-carved pumpkin sculptures on display, you can complete this tour within 1.5 hours. Over 70% new content this year. Tickets must be pre-purchased online.


Apple Harvest Festival at Blue Mountains

Blue Mountain Village
October 9–11, 2021

featuredevents3oct52021.jpgHead to Blue Mountain Village for free family activities, an Apple Pie Trail, scavenger hunts, biking, hiking and fall driving tours during the Apple Harvest Festival weekend in Ontario’s largest apple growing region.

featured farm: Chudleighs Apple Farm

featuredoct52021.jpgNo fall would be complete without a visit to the quintessential Ontario fall apple farm, Chudleigh’s. Grab some hot apple cider and go pick some apples of your own in the apple orchard. Then stop off at the farm and play area or go for a pretty walk on the trails. Chudleigh’s has over 22 varieties of apples to pick. Check out their website to see what’s ripe now!

 

only in ontario

onlyinontariooct52021.jpg Did you know that Toronto was named the most diverse city in the world by the BBC in 2017?  According to the BBC, half of Toronto’s population was born outside of Canada and residents claim as many as 230 different nationalities.  That explains Toronto’s dynamic food scene, art and culture, and world class perspectives on everything from tech to medical research.  Diversity is our superpower!

Print Edition 2022

img2021.jpgWe've started working on the 2022 edition of Summer Fun Guide but if you are looking for a 2021 edition, emaill info@summerfunguide.ca to have one mailed to you. View a digital version of the print edition online here: https://www.summerfunguide.ca/print-edition.html.

 
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Fun Fall Activities to do with the Family in Ontario

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