Ontario Fun Facts

Ontario, one of Canada's most vibrant provinces, is full of fascinating history, stunning natural landscapes, and unique cultural elements. From the lively neighbourhoods of Toronto to the serene beauty of its national and provincial parks, Ontario is a place of diverse experiences. We compiled ten fun facts about this wonderful province.

10. Ontario is a Hotspot for Winter Activities

There's something magical about Ontario in the winter, no matter what you enjoy doing. Home to some beautiful outdoor ice skating rinks such as the iconic Rideau Canal Skateway in Ottawa - the world's largest outdoor skating rink, perfect for skating with a picturesque view. In Toronto, check out Nathan Phillips Square or High Park for outdoor rinks.

Niagara Falls in winter transforms into a serene, icy spectacle with snow covering the landscape and creating stunning ice formations. The falls don’t fully freeze, but the mist creates a surreal ice cave effect, adding to the peaceful atmosphere. The roar of the water contrasts beautifully with the stillness of the snow and ice. The Winter Festival of Lights, with over 3 million lights, adds holiday magic, turning the area into a winter wonderland, perfect for evening strolls amid the illuminated falls.

 
9. Home to the World’s Largest Freshwater Island

Ontario is home to Manitoulin Island, the world’s largest freshwater island. Located in Lake Huron, Manitoulin is an island rich in history and culture, with numerous Indigenous communities, hiking trails, and breathtaking views of the surrounding waters. Manitoulin Island is home to six First Nations communities, giving the island a rich Indigenous culture. Wikwemikong Tourism offers a range of authentic Indigenous experiences that reflect the cultural lifestyles and traditions of the Anishinaabek people.
     
8. Ontario produces some wonderful wines

Ontario is actually home to four wine-producing regions—Niagara Peninsula, Lake Erie North Shore, Pelee Island, and Prince Edward County—each with its own unique climate and soil conditions. Across these regions, hundreds of vineyards produce everything from classic reds, whites, rosés, and sparkling wines to more unique offerings like Icewine, mead, maple wine, fruit wines, and even lavender-infused dessert wine.

The Niagara Peninsula, especially Niagara-on-the-Lake (NOTL), is at the heart of Ontario’s wine industry. It’s the largest and most concentrated winemaking region in Canada, set against the backdrop of Lake Ontario, the Niagara River, and the protective ridges of the Niagara Escarpment. Niagara’s most famous product is its world-renowned Icewine, made from naturally frozen grapes that create an intensely sweet and flavorful wine. Visitors can sample award-winning Icewines at wineries throughout the region, alongside a diverse selection of other locally crafted wines.

7. Ontario is Home to the Most UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Canada

Ontario is home to a number of UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the Rideau Canal and the iconic Niagara Falls. The Rideau Canal is particularly interesting as it’s one of the oldest continuously operated canals in North America and turns into the world’s largest outdoor skating rink during the winter months!

 
6. BeaverTails originated in Ontario

BeaverTails are a beloved Canadian treat - a deep-fried pastry stretched into the shape of a beaver’s tail and finished off with either sweet or savoury toppings. They were first created in 1978 by Grant and Pam Hooker in Killaloe, Ontario, then the couple perfected the family recipe and opened the first official BeaverTails stand in Ottawa’s ByWard Market in 1980. Since then, the treat has become an iconic Canadian snack, especially popular at outdoor events, winter festivals, and along the Rideau Canal Skateway.

 
5. Home to the Famous Niagara Falls

Niagara Falls, one of the most famous natural wonders in the world, is located right on the Ontario/New York border. The sheer power and beauty of the falls attract millions of tourists each year, making it one of Ontario’s most beloved landmarks. There are many ways to experience the wonder of the falls, from boat to helicopter, you can see and feel it from all angles – including a great experience behind the falls themselves.

4. Ontario is the Heart of Canada's Maple Syrup Production

If you've ever enjoyed a stack of pancakes with maple syrup, there's a good chance that it was made right in Ontario. The province is a major producer of maple syrup, with the area around the town of Lanark being particularly known for its syrup-making traditions.

3. The CN Tower is the Tallest Freestanding Structure in the Western Hemisphere

Toronto's iconic CN Tower once held the title of the tallest freestanding structure in the world. Standing at 553 meters (1,815 feet), the tower was completed in 1976 and remained the tallest until 2007. Today, it still offers some of the best panoramic views of the city and Lake Ontario, and has a highly recommended restaurant giving you 360 degree views (hence its name - 360 Restaurant!)

 
2. Ontario Has Over 250,000 Lakes

Ontario means land of shining waters and it's no wonder the province is renowned for its stunning lakes, with four of the five great lakes located in Ontario.  With over 250,000 of them, it’s a paradise for water lovers. From the giant Lake Ontario to the smaller, more secluded gems you can always find a perfect spot to enjoy some peaceful downtime or enjoy water activities.

1. Home to the World's Longest Freshwater Beach

Ontario boasts the world’s longest freshwater beach at Wasaga Beach. Located along the shores of Georgian Bay, this beautiful stretch of sand extends for an impressive 14 kilometers (8.7 miles). It’s a popular spot for swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying the natural surroundings.