This Charming Canadian Town Offers A Lake Ontario Getaway With Family-Friendly Fun

Nestled along the shores of Lake Ontario, there's a charming town offering the perfect family-friendly getaway with a quaint small community vibe. This Canadian destination not only makes for the perfect autumn escape, but is a vibrant town filled with events, family-run restaurants, and an incredible beach to relax on. The town of Cobourg sits just 75 miles east of Toronto, and is easily reached via Highway 401, the main artery for transportation along southern Ontario.

As a born and bred Ontarian, over many years, I've had the chance to browse through Cobourg's local shops, indulge in local eats, and visit the sandy beaches that are filled to the brim during summer. A road-tripping guide through Canada would not be complete without including Cobourg, which is also the largest town in Northumberland County.

With its abundance of green spaces, recreational areas, year-round events, and the perfect mix of small town tranquility with easy access to major highways, it's easy to see why Cobourg is considered by locals "The Feel Good Town," and is becoming a place where city folk come to enjoy the charm of a slower-paced life. This tight-knit community with a population just over 20,000 people, is the perfect fun, family-friendly destination to add to your travel itinerary.

One of the main draws of Cobourg is its historic downtown strip on King Street. Lined with heritage buildings that have been thoughtfully preserved, their facades and masonry have been put on the Ontario Heritage Trust conservation of protected architecture. Buildings such as Victoria Hall, a King Street standout, was completed in 1860 and now houses the Art Gallery of Northumberland, and also holds concerts and various events. Victorian-era residential homes are restored professionally by the Historic Brick Company, which specializes in old-school masonry techniques.

One of the many joys of leisurely taking a stroll through Cobourg's downtown is casually browsing each and every shop along the main drag. Historic buildings housing boutiques selling anything and everything from handmade jewelry and knick-knacks, quaint vintage clothing shops, and even a cozy little book store await patrons throughout Cobourg.

Once you've shopped your heart out, fuel up at one of the many eateries lining Cobourg's historic downtown. With a multitude of various food choices, you won't be short on options. Coffee lovers will be happy to hear that Cobourg has many places to enjoy a hot cuppa. Head into Cobourg Coffee Roasters to enjoy a brew, or head to the Fabled Bean for a croissant sandwich. For those looking for a full meal, Cobourg has whatever you're craving. From delicate sushi to rich French cuisine, the eclectic range of flavors is abundant in this small town. A personal favorite of mine is The Buttermilk Cafe, which offers up a cozy, diner-esque vibe serving homemade, feel good comfort food with large portions at reasonable prices.

Cobourg's location along Lake Ontario makes it the perfect family destination for outdoor enthusiasts. The 373-mile Lake Ontario portion of Great Lakes Waterfront Trail passes through Cobourg, and is perfect for biking or enjoying a leisurely walk along the shore. On sunny days, head to Cobourg Beach with its white sand and nearby Victoria Park, which has amenities such as a splash pad, playground, and the Victoria Park Bandshell that hosts weekly summer concerts. RV'ers can also camp at the Victoria Park Campground, and registration can be made directly on their site.

Cobourg, like most of Northumberland County, is surrounded by hundreds of farms, including apple orchards, and is home to a thriving farmer's market running every Saturday morning from May to October. It sells a variety of fresh produce, homemade tarts, and even flowers. For a full day of family fun, head to Burnham Family Farm Market, open seven days a week, 9AM to 5:30PM, and selling fresh Ontario produce, homemade preserves, and pecan and raspberry tarts from the farm's onsite shop.  

Whether you want to rest your head in an old Heritage Inn, or relax with views overlooking Lake Ontario, Cobourg offers visitors a variety of places to stay. Watch the waves roll in as you kick back on an Adirondack chair at Willowmere Lakeside Retreat, which is a 15-minute walk from downtown. A stay at Willowmere will cost just over $200, and is open year-round. For a unique stay in town, book a room (if you dare) at King George Inn, a converted jailhouse and manor. Rooms start at $106 per night, and the only charge you'll incur is the one for your stay.