5 Places You Should Check Out in Ontario

Did you know Canada..  If you're travelling to Canada, specifically Ontario, prepare yourself for a gratifying experience. With so much to see and do, whether you're an adventurous camper or a city dweller, the second largest country in the world won't disappoint.

Before planning your itinerary, think about whether you want to lose yourself in the vast wilderness or lurk in the shadows of skyscrapers. Considering the following five must-see places will help you decide where to go and what to expect. 

Ottawa


Imagine via Flickr mark.watmough

If you're a history or arts enthusiast, perhaps a trip to Canada's capital is on the horizon. Ottawa is home of the Parliament, the federal legislative branch of Canada, and hosts a number of museums and art centers. 

Among the most notable tourist attractions, the Canadian War Museum and the National Arts Centre are great places to begin your journey through the capital. For a detailed list of top attractions, visit Ottawa's official tourism Website. 

Toronto


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The largest city in Canada, home to more than 2.5 million people, is host of Canada's tallest freestanding structure: the CN Tower. If you're hungry and not afraid of heights, an elevator ride to The 360 Restaurant will result in satisfying your appetite while enjoying a magnificent revolving view of Toronto more than 1,151 feet below. 

Other attractions include: the Ontario Science Centre, Art Gallery of Ontario, and Royal Ontario Museum. Toronto is also home to the Toronto International Film Festival, Caribbean Carnival, and Canadian National Exhibition. With so much to see and do in this ethnically vibrant city, there's something for everyone to enjoy.

Algonquin National Park


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If you prefer the beauty of the wilderness to the buzz of the city streets, then a trip to Algonquin National Park is an absolute must when visiting Ontario. The park is a vast 7,800 square miles of lakes and forests home to a Canadian ecosystem of bears, moose, and wolves. 

Whether you're exploring by foot or via 1,000 miles of canoe trails, multiple camping options are available. If you're in the mood for living on the edge, camping in the deepest parts of the park will satisfy your need for adventure. A lakeshore resort is also located within the boundaries of the park for others who prefer to pamper themselves. 

Polar Bear Provincial Park


Imagine via Flickr Maria Lopatka

For those who want to take their camping expedition to another extreme, Polar Bear Provincial Park is the place to do it. This park, which is the largest in Ontario at 9,093 square miles, preserves habitats for wildlife - especially the hundreds of polar bears that roam throughout the area.
Visitors to Polar Bear should prepare for all uncertainties and remain cautious. Packing extra food, clothing, and a tent not higher than necessary - because of possible strong winds - is essential. Having a reliable vehicle, such as one from DriveTime, is key because of the distance between the park and civilization. 

Niagara Falls


Image via Flickr Alberto Mari

Although people often mistake Niagara Falls as one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World, it isn't. That fact doesn't take away from the majesty of its size, though, which attracts more than 20 million visitors each year. 

The advantage of visiting the falls on the Canadian side of the border as oppose to the American is because of its differences in height. The Canadian side of the falls (188 ft.) is about 100 feet higher than the American side (70-100 ft.), which naturally makes it a greater spectacle for tourists. Restaurants, shopping, and hotels are all available for visitors to this grand marvel. 

No matter your tastes or preferences, Ontario offers a lot of options to an excited visitor. From the beautiful landscapes of the wild to the towering skyscrapers of the city, there's plenty to see and do during any season or time of the year.

Have a safe trip, eh!