Things to Do in Ontario This Summer (and the Best Vehicle for Every Adventure)
- Car Nation Canada
- Jul 15
- 5 min read
Discover the best things to do in Ontario this summer and find the perfect vehicle for every adventure—from beach days and cottage weekends to camping, road trips, and family vacations.
Ontario comes alive in the summer. Whether you're escaping to cottage country, exploring hidden waterfalls, enjoying local festivals, or taking a scenic road trip, the right vehicle can make your adventure even better.
At Car Nation Canada, we help drivers throughout Burlington, Hamilton, Oakville, Milton, Grimsby, Brantford, Mississauga and surrounding communities find vehicles that suit their lifestyle, whether they're commuting to work or planning the ultimate Ontario road trip.
No matter where your summer takes you, you can browse our complete inventory or explore financing options with financing available for many credit situations O.A.C. (On Approved Credit. Conditions may apply.)
Key Takeaways
Ontario offers incredible destinations for every type of traveller.
Choosing the right vehicle makes summer travel easier and more comfortable.
SUVs are ideal for camping, cottages and family adventures.
Pickup trucks are perfect for towing boats and trailers.
Sedans excel on long highway road trips.
Minivans remain one of the best choices for growing families.
Car Nation Canada offers a wide selection of vehicles and financing solutions for many credit situations.
Road Trip Through Muskoka
Nothing says Ontario summer like a drive through Muskoka. Scenic highways, sparkling lakes, charming small towns and endless outdoor activities make it one of Canada's favourite vacation destinations.
Best Vehicle: Mid-Size or Full-Size SUV
An SUV offers the comfort, cargo room and versatility needed for a weekend away.
Recommended models include:
These SUVs offer generous cargo space for luggage, coolers, camping gear and paddleboards while providing a comfortable ride for longer highway journeys.
Cottage Weekends
Packing for the cottage often means bringing everything from fishing rods to BBQ supplies.
Best Vehicle: Pickup Truck
If you're towing a boat or utility trailer, a pickup truck offers excellent capability.
Popular choices include:
Remember to always stay within your vehicle's manufacturer-rated towing capacity.
Spend the Day at Ontario's Beaches
Ontario is home to some incredible beaches including:
Wasaga Beach
Grand Bend
Crystal Beach
Port Dover
Sandbanks Provincial Park
Long Point Provincial Park
Best Vehicle: Compact SUV
Compact SUVs offer excellent fuel economy while still providing enough room for:
Beach chairs
Umbrellas
Coolers
Sports equipment
Family luggage
Recommended models include:
Explore Niagara Wine Country
Take a relaxing drive through Niagara-on-the-Lake and the surrounding Niagara Region to enjoy wineries, restaurants and scenic countryside.
Best Vehicle: Luxury Sedan
A quiet, comfortable sedan enhances every kilometre.
Excellent choices include:
Always plan for a designated driver or alternate transportation if visiting wineries.
Camping Adventures Across Ontario
Ontario's provincial parks offer some of Canada's best camping experiences.
Popular parks include:
Algonquin Provincial Park
Pinery Provincial Park
Killbear Provincial Park
Bon Echo Provincial Park
Bruce Peninsula National Park
Best Vehicle: AWD SUV
All-wheel drive provides extra confidence on gravel roads while offering plenty of room for outdoor gear.
Great choices include:
Family Staycations Around Southern Ontario
You don't have to travel far to make unforgettable summer memories.
Great family destinations include:
African Lion Safari
Royal Botanical Gardens
Canada's Wonderland
Ripley's Aquarium of Canada
Conservation areas around Halton Hills and Cambridge
Best Vehicle: Minivan
Minivans continue to be one of the most practical family vehicles available.
Top recommendations:
With spacious interiors, sliding doors and plenty of cargo room, they're built for family adventures.
Hiking Ontario's Best Trails
Ontario offers incredible hiking destinations including:
Dundas Peak
Spencer Gorge
Bruce Trail
Elora Gorge
Rattlesnake Point
Mono Cliffs
Best Vehicle: Compact SUV
Bring your bikes, backpacks, dogs and outdoor gear with ease.
Recommended SUVs:
Summer Festivals Across Ontario
From food festivals to live music and community celebrations, Ontario has something happening every weekend.
Popular events include:
Burlington Sound of Music Festival
Hamilton Fringe Festival
Canal Days in Port Colborne
Ribfests
Farmers' Markets
Food Truck Festivals
Best Vehicle: Fuel-Efficient Sedan
Spend less time at the fuel pump and more time enjoying your trip.
Excellent choices include:
Which Summer Vehicle Is Right for You?
Summer Adventure | Recommended Vehicle |
Cottage Trips | Pickup Truck or Full-Size SUV |
Camping | AWD SUV |
Beaches | Compact SUV |
Family Vacations | Minivan |
Highway Road Trips | Fuel-Efficient Sedan |
Wine Country | Luxury Sedan |
Hiking | Compact SUV |
Towing Boats | Pickup Truck |
No matter what your summer plans include, you'll find vehicles designed to fit your lifestyle and budget.
Explore our new and pre-owned inventory or get started by applying for financing today. Our team proudly serves drivers across Burlington, Hamilton, Oakville, Milton, Grimsby, Brantford and communities throughout Southern Ontario. Financing is available for many credit situations O.A.C. (On Approved Credit. Conditions may apply.)
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best vehicle for an Ontario cottage trip?
A pickup truck or mid-size SUV is ideal if you need extra cargo space or plan to tow a boat or trailer.
Is an SUV better than a sedan for summer travel?
If you're camping, visiting cottages or carrying outdoor gear, an SUV offers more versatility. Sedans are typically more fuel-efficient for longer highway drives.
What's the best family vehicle for Ontario road trips?
Minivans such as the Toyota Sienna and Honda Odyssey provide exceptional passenger comfort and cargo space.
Can I finance a vehicle before my summer vacation?
Absolutely. Learn more about our vehicle financing options. Financing is available for many credit situations O.A.C. (On Approved Credit. Conditions may apply.)
Ready for Your Next Ontario Adventure?
Whether you're planning a beach day, a cottage weekend, a camping trip, or a scenic drive across Ontario, having the right vehicle makes every journey more enjoyable. At Car Nation Canada, we're here to help you find a vehicle that fits your lifestyle today and for many summers to come.
Start by exploring our complete vehicle inventory or apply for financing to take the next step with confidence.
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With over four decades in the automotive industry, Dealer Principal Rick Paletta is a trusted name across the Hamilton–Burlington region. Born and raised locally, Rick is respected for his integrity, work ethic, and people-first leadership—and he still loves this business because it’s about helping neighbours, building relationships, and matching people with vehicles they’re excited to drive. His commitment to the community shows up in consistent giving, including long-running support of McMaster Children’s Hospital through Car Nation Cares.
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