When the heat of the summer starts to fade and the leaves begin to change colour, Ontario is transformed into a picture-postcard landscape - maple trees with red and gold foliage, glistening sunshine, and temperatures that are still warm enough for outdoor adventures. Fall getaways in Ontario cities are also usually less busy than in the summer months, allowing travellers to avoid the crowds for a little peace and relaxation. This is also a great time of year to explore the cosmopolitan city centers in the province.
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October Half Term Holidays in Ontario: Top Destinations
October Half Term Holidays in Ontario: Top Accommodation
Top 5 Autumn Cities to Visit in Ontario
Whether you want to head to cities surrounded by the great outdoors or enjoy seasonal festivals in the heart of a metropolis, these are the best cities to visit for fall getaways in Ontario.
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1. Toronto
This huge metropolis provides everything a city break should, but with the added benefit of being very close to many natural landscapes. Just outside of the city is both High Park and Rouge Park, offering some of the best treks through the changing landscape. Expect less crowded hiking trails in fall, providing visitors with an intimate natural experience. In the center of the city, markets selling local apples, jams, and pies should not be missed - a true taste of Canada in the fall.
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2. Ottowa
The capital of Canada comes alive in the fall, providing visitors with some of the best fall getaways in Ontario. From pumpkin carving competitions to apple picking and cranberry festivals, the celebration of produce in the city is the best during the fall months. Cycling the Osgoode Pathway is also best enjoyed in the fall - this 22-kilometre cycle route passes through the changing forests around the city and offers a moment of calm in the busy metropolis.
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3. Burlington
Lovers of camping should consider a trip to Burlington when fall arrives. This city is perfectly placed between Toronto and Niagara Falls and is a short ride away from some of the best camping spots in the province, including Bronte Creek Provincial Park. Burlington locals are extremely proud of their heritage, and during the fall they put on shows and activities, including horse-drawn wagon rides, team hiking, and food festivals.
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4. Niagara Falls
One of the best times of the year to visit the world-famous waterfalls of Niagara Falls is in the fall. The colourful surrounding forest frames the cascading water, creating an incredible sight to behold. Close to the waterfalls are the Dufferin Islands, a small grouping of islands of magnificent beauty - take advantage of the smaller crowds in the autumn and enjoy peaceful walks through the island's natural habitat.
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5. London
The small city of London is a perfect destination for a fall vacation. This time of year brings with it the local craft beer festival, filled with brewers from around the region serving some of the finest beers around and paired with live music and excellent food stalls. Lovers of the outdoors can still head to Victoria Park - an inner city space that is transformed with a stunning carpet of autumn leaves.