Discovering the charm of GTA’s small towns
Niagara, Elora, and Uxbridge are just a few of southern Ontario’s hidden gems where one can escape and experience wonderful views.
Being a student means being bombarded with endless obligations and deadlines. Just as you finish one assignment, another important assignment pops up. Sometimes, you just want to turn the other way and avoid that to-do list. But even if you want to escape, the question is where. If you ask me, I love visiting small towns around Mississauga to get away.
For me, small towns provide the perfect relief from the hustle and bustle of big-city life. Each town has a rich history, a passionate sense of self, and a close-knit community. After exploring various towns, I see it as my responsibility to share my knowledge with the next generation. Here are a few of my favourite towns to visit and why.
Niagara on the Lake
Because of its beautiful appeal and calming allure, this town is ideal for those who enjoy wine and old country views. The town is filled with antique buildings and boutique stores and even features a beautiful lake. Niagara on the Lake is a personal favourite of mine. I recommend going here during the summer for the full experience.
Elora
Offering picturesque views, The Elora Gorge has earned Elora the title “Most Beautiful Village in Ontario,” according to a recent YouTube vlog in 2024. It is a great retreat with its lively arts scene and welcoming cafés. For more active people, the village also offers outdoor activities like hiking and tubing. I would recommend visiting in the fall, but this town shines in every season. It’s not that far from Mississauga and is great for a road trip with friends.
Uxbridge
The charming town of Uxbridge, found just northeast of Toronto, is known as the “Trail Capital of Canada,” according to Trip Advisor, because of its vast system of beautiful trails, verdant forests, and undulating hills. Uxbridge is ideal for equestrian riding, cycling, and hiking.
The York-Durham Heritage Railway allows you to soak in the natural beauty of Uxbridge aboard vintage trains with fun activities. You can also enjoy the artistic side of the town through the Uxbridge Studio Tour, where you can visit the studios of local artists. The town is a wonderful place for day trippers and nature lovers alike because of its welcoming eateries, small-town brewers, and quaint stores.
Stratford
Although a bit far from Toronto, Stratford is well-known for its world-class Stratford Festival. The Stratford Festival attracts theatregoers from all over the world with its superb Shakespearean and modern shows. With its swan-filled lakes and charming gardens, the town is a lovely destination along the Avon River.
Stratford’s historic downtown is a center of art and culture, with upscale dining options, boutique stores, and lively galleries. For theatre enthusiasts as well as those looking for a leisurely cultural retreat, Stratford is the perfect destination because of its friendly atmosphere and innovative attitude. In my opinion, it is a lovely place for a quiet, relaxing day out.
Unionville
This is a historic village in Markham, well-known for its lively Main Street dotted with boutique stores, welcoming cafes, and excellent dining establishments. The prominent 19th-century architecture within Unionville gives it a European vibe and makes it a great location for walks and photography. You will also find cultural activities like the Unionville Festival and various performances. It is only a short drive from Toronto and provides the ideal getaway with its unique blend of small-town charm and contemporary conveniences. I would personally recommend going here in the fall to experience those Gilmore Girl vibes.
I believe that small towns are amazing, especially for students like me, as they provide the perfect atmosphere for resetting your mental health and the opportunity to experience new things. Every once in a while, when life gets too much to handle, it’s okay to have a retreat, it’s okay to take a break in an idyllic village.
Small towns are the key to sating your wanderlust, whether you’re dying for a peaceful getaway, a trip back in time, or a close-up look at nature. Explore these quaint, off-the-beaten-path getaways and escape from the city. These small towns will make a large impact on you and make you eager to. It worked for me, so hopefully, it will work for you, too!
