8 Places in Ontario for Urban Explorers To Visit
Ontario, nestled in the heart of Canada, is named after the Iroquois word for ‘beautiful water’ — aptly so, as the region boasts over 250,000 lakes. There are many reasons why explorers and tourists adore the province of Ontario; it houses the nation’s capital, Ottawa, and its largest city, Toronto, making it a central hub for culture and economics to thrive.
Additionally, it’s a place full of history and picturesque natural scenery, including the famous Niagara Falls and Hamilton’s Waterfront.
Ontario offers so many exploration opportunities for photographers and travelers alike. So, if you are interested in visiting the area with your camera, take note of the eight must-visit places in Ontario below.
1. Toronto’s Distillery District
Wandering through Toronto’s Distillery District is like stepping back in time. The district is home to North America’s most extensive collection of Victorian industrial architecture. This pedestrian-only village is composed of unique galleries, artisan boutiques, and eateries, all set against the backdrop of beautifully preserved historic buildings of the former Gooderham and Worts Distillery.
Perfect for photographers, the area offers a glimpse into the 19th century, while modernity is kept alive primarily through creativity and art. This area is a must-visit if you are east of Downtown!
2. Art Gallery of Ontario, Toronto
This Toronto-based museum is not just unmissable for art lovers but for anyone interested in capturing shots of stunning architecture. Designed by renowned architect Frank Gehry, its fluid glass and wooden structure stand in total contrast to the surrounding cityscape, especially when it is dark. Beyond its gorgeous facade, if you are interested in venturing inside, the gallery houses an impressive collection of more than 90000 works of art, making it a must-visit for anyone looking to learn more about the exhibition.
Many museums prohibit pictures, so check the gallery’s photography rules before taking your camera into the museum with you.
3. Ottawa’s Parliament Hill
The iconic Parliament Hill, based downtown, stands as a symbol of Canada’s federal government. The Gothic Revival-style buildings are a photographer’s dream, especially at sunset when the golden light bathes the stone walls. Exploring the grounds, you’ll find statues and memorials that will be great to picture, but bear in mind you will need tickets before you enter. Parliament Hill is an excellent spot to visit if you are interested in politics.
4. Hamilton’s Waterfront
Hamilton’s waterfront is a testament to modern urban redevelopment, offering extensive scenic views of Lake Ontario. The area offers explorers parks, trails, and outdoor art installations to take many snapshots. There are plans to turn the space into a traffic-free zone, generating tourist footfall into new casinos, boutiques, and shops to revitalize the city, especially with the rise of online casino games. Hamilton’s Waterfront is already pretty dreamy, but it will undoubtedly be a photographer’s dream place to visit once it’s finished in an estimated 15 to 20 years!
5. Kitchener’s Innovation District
Kitchener’s Innovation District is an urban area where old manufacturing buildings have been repurposed into trendy lofts, tech offices, and creative spaces. This transformation is a visual narrative of the city’s evolution from an industrial hub to a tech and cultural hotspot in 2024. For urban explorers, it offers a unique juxtaposition of rustic brick against the sleekness of modern design buildings and skyscrapers.
7. Niagara Falls’ Clifton Hill
If you are an explorer looking to prioritize fun, Clifton Hill is a must-visit, whether traveling solo or with company. Located along the Niagra River, Clifton Hill presents an array of attractions, from Dinosaur Adventure Golf and the Niagra Skywheel. This is the perfect setting for you to snap fun, colorful images and to make even better memories — fitting, considering it is Canada’s amusement capital!
8. Stratford’s Victorian Streets
Stratford, Ontario, is celebrated for its Shakespearean theatre, but did you know it also charms visitors with its Victorian-era architecture? Strolling through its streets is like walking through a living museum, where each building tells a story of elegance and timelessness. It’s a peaceful retreat for photographers looking to capture Ontario’s architectural heritage.
Where Will You Visit First?
So there you have it, eight of Ontario’s must-see places for those looking to capture the stories of rich architecture, scenic beauty, and city fun through a camera lens. Whether you’re a history buff, a politics enthusiast, or simply in love with the art of photography, Ontario’s cities and towns offer a rich palette for exploration. Be sure to let us know if we missed anything from this list.