Travelling to Ontario

Travelling to Ontario
Ontario is located in the geographic centre of Canada, and in many ways it is the political, economic and artistic centre of the country as well. Numerous attractions draw tourists to this province, whether they are seeking outdoor recreation, natural phenomena, historical monuments or modern culture, arts and entertainment.

When to Go
The best time for travelling to Ontario (and most of Canada) is during the Spring/Summer/Fall season. July and August are the warmest months in the province, and unlike in other parts of the country, these summer months do not experience a lot of rain.

How To Get There
Pearson Airport in Toronto is one of Canada’s major gateways. Ottawa is home to a smaller airport. Bus and train routes will also take you to most of the province’s major cities.

Where to Go
Major Attractions:

• Toronto
• Ottawa
• Niagara Falls

Toronto, the capital of Ontario, is the largest city in Canada and the fourth largest in North America. This city should certainly be a destination when travelling to Ontario. It is the financial and business centre of the country and a major focus of Canadian arts. The numerous ethnic communities established throughout the city give it a distinctive character. Some sites not to be missed are:

The CN Tower – At 533 metres, this tower is the highest free-standing structure in the world. It is the central symbol and landmark of Toronto.

Rogers Center – The home of the Toronto Blue Jays is the world’s first stadium to be built with a fully retractable roof.

The Harbourfront – The York and Queen’s Quays are lined with restaurants, specialty gift shops, theatre performances and cultural events. Boat tours are also available.

Royal Ontario Museum – This is Canada’s largest museum of natural sciences, the animal world, archaeology and art.

Other Toronto attractions include: Ontario Place, The Ontario Science Centre, The Hockey Hall of Fame, Kensington Market and the Toronto Zoo.

Ottawa is the capital city of Canada, and appeals to visitors interested in the cultural activities and museums the city has to offer. Among the major attractions are:

Parliament Hill – Located in downtown Ottawa, these picturesque buildings can be admired from the outside, or viewed from within. When parliament is in session, Question Period in the House of Commons is a popular attraction.

The National Gallery – This impressive building houses an enormous collection of North American and European works, both classic and contemporary. Other notable museums include: Canadian War Museum, The Royal Canadian Mint, The National Museum of Science and Technology, The Canadian Museum of Civilization.

Byward Market – On Saturdays, farmers sell fresh vegetables, fruits and flowers in this busy area. The specialty shops with meats, seafood, baked goods, cheeses and crafts, as well as the numerous restaurants, are open throughout the week.

Rideau Canal – A great skating spot in the winter.

Niagara Falls
This popular honeymoon setting is one of Canada’s top tourist destinations. The Falls span fifty-six metres of the Niagara River between Ontario and Upper New York State. They are impressive day and night, all year-round.

Other Highlights when Travelling to Ontario Include:

• The Niagara Wine district
• Stratford and Shaw Theatre Festivals
• Oktoberfest in Kitchener
• Canoeing and Hiking in Algonquin and Killarney Provincial Parks
• Downhill Skiing in Collingwood
• Cross-Country Skiing in the Gatineau Hills

Travel Insurance
Choose a travel health insurance plan to cover the costs of unforeseen health needs, emergencies or accidents while in Canada. Click here for a list of frequently asked questions about travel health insurance.