Fabulous Fall Road Trips to Swell Small Towns

Located at the Forks of the Grand and Nith Rivers in the County of Brant

Who needs a fall trip to Europe when the dreamy riverside town of Paris delivers such a postcard-perfect alternative? “Canada’s prettiest little town” embodies a number of architectural styles—Victorian, Edwardian, Gothic, and Post Modern—but Paris is renowned for its cobblestone buildings, including two churches and 10 residences that are still in use today. As of 2025, The Downtown Dig is transforming the town while being respectful of the historical and cultural character that is the cornerstone of Parisian charm. Parking is still available and the shops along Main street would be delighted to welcome you through their doors.

One of Canada’s designated heritage rivers, The Grand (River), flows right through the town. Hop in for a brisk, eye-opener, enjoy a calming stroll along it’s waters, or enjoy the beautiful sight along trails, parks and restaurant patios and balconies that run along the banks. Local outfitters like Grand Experiences and Grand River Rafting, also offer rentals, guided tours and fall paddling trips that allow you to enjoy time on the water your way

. Don’t miss the open-air cafés, bakeries, award-winning fine dining restaurants, unique shops and picturesque photo-ops.

Don’t Miss:
• French bistro fare at Juniper Dining Co., creative cuisine and cocktails at The Library Bar in Arlington Hotel, or eating on the patio at Stillwaters Plate and Pour.
• The Paris Wincey Mills Co., a historic building that is home to a year round farm-to-table market hall and comfortable café.
• Paddling or rafting on the Grand River, whether you “turbo tube” or prefer a guided trip.

Located a short drive from the city of Hamilton

Autumn calls for street strolling, and you’ll find walk-worthy downtowns in two places just outside of Hamilton. Travel to the quiet little find that is Dundas and stroll its vibrant main street, featuring longstanding restaurants, boutiques, and businesses with well-preserved 19th-century architecture. The town’s geographical location in a valley makes it the perfect starting point for exploring the surrounding conservation areas that include a wealth of trails and waterfalls.

A short drive away is the village of Ancaster, one of the oldest communities in Ontario. For a century the town was a gristmill hamlet, and its rebuilt historic mill now operates as a restaurant. Its heritage is also evident in the area architecture, best enjoyed by a walk through the downtown with its quaint shops, restaurants and historic buildings. The character and beauty of the community is intertwined with the Niagara Escarpment, so take some time to enjoy its natural geography and hiking opportunities this fall.

Don’t miss:
• The Dundas Museum and Archives, located on one of Dundas’ most sublime residential streets.
• Quatrefoil, Dundas’ five-star dining pride and joy, or its acclaimed coffee house, Detour Café.
• The Ancaster Mill, a scenic creek side eatery in a restored mill that offers farm-to-table entrees and a fixed price lunch.
• Tiffany Falls Conservation Area, with its eponymous waterfall and hiking along the Heritage and Bruce Trails.

Located in the northwestern end of the Greater Toronto Area

Small town seekers often enjoy the drive as much as the destination. Take a ramble along the rural roads of the Halton Hills and you’ll come across an abundance of small towns, villages and hamlets that are in spring bloom. Start your day in Georgetown, founded in 1823. Wander through the historic downtown where many original historic buildings still stand, making it one of the most frequently filmed towns in Ontario.

Nestled on the banks of the Credit River Valley at the north end of Georgetown along the Niagara Escarpment, Glen Williams is a beautiful hamlet full of rural charm, local artistry and community spirit with an artist enclave, cafe, pub and restaurant; making for a perfect day-trip destination. From the Georgetown area, a short drive will take you to Acton, another location that can make a claim as one of the oldest communities in Ontario. The town is also affectionately known as “Canada’s Leathertown” and “the last small town near Toronto”.

Don’t miss:
• Browsing the works of thirty artists and artisans in the four historic buildings of the Williams Mill Visual Arts Centre in Glen Williams.
• The Beaumont Mill offers 3 floors of antiques, trinkets and treasures of the past.
• Enjoy delicious pub fare at the Copper Kettle Pub that has served the community for over 30 years.
• The Credit Valley Footpath, a 16 km trail that takes you through Glen Williams and to a beautiful view overlooking the hamlet.

Located south of Cambridge in the County of Brant

Antiques and artisans are the draw for those travelling to the small town of St. George and its environs. Reminiscent of a small British village, the single block downtown core offers numerous antique stores, some with multiple co-operative dealers and others specializing in furniture, china and collectibles. Head outside of town to visit local studio and craft artists that call the area their home, or pick a spot close by to access the Grand River for canoeing or the Cambridge to Paris Rail Trail for spring hiking.

Don’t miss:
• The Adelaide Hunter Hoodless Homestead, the birthplace of the co-founder of the Women’s Institute Movement.
• The studio and store at Donn Zver Pottery, a few kilometres east of town, where you can purchase dishes and serving pieces or eat from them at the on site cafe.