Things To Do In Elora Ontario On A Day Trip: 34 Attractions, Inns & Restaurants

One of the many small villages in rural Ontario is Elora, located along the gorgeous Grand River in Southern Ontario. It’s a charming destination for a day trip from Toronto. There are so many things to do in Elora Ontario, for every type of traveller.

One of the famous Group of Seven painters, A.J. Casson, called it “Ontario’s Most Beautiful Village.” I have to agree, and at some point, I was even beginning to feel like I was in a small town in Italy. 

If you love the outdoors, there are parks and extreme activities like river tubing, zip-lining, and hiking. For the shopaholic, you’ll love the authentic, original Mom & Pop shops in the Elora downtown area – trust us, these days, it’s all about supporting local businesses. Our foodie friends have numerous places to eat, from fine dining to cute cafes. Lastly, if you love art, you can visit several galleries or make your own art at one of the many art classes. 

No matter why you visit Elora, you’ll find something to do!

This article is now available as a mobile app. Go to GPSmyCity to download the app for GPS-assisted travel directions to the attractions featured in this article.

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Elora Town History

• Elora, Ontario is known for its 19th-century limestone construction and the Elora Gorge.
• The first visitors were Roman Catholic missionaries who arrived in the 1600s. They attempted to turn the Indigenous People into Christians.
• The early European settlers arrived in 1817
• Born in Ayrshire, Scotland, Captain William Gilkison bought 14,000 acres and chose the area near the Grand River’s falls as the location for Elora.
• Mr. Gilkison named the village after his brother’s ship, which the Ellora Caves inspired in Maharashtra, India – A World Heritage Site.
• The Elora Mill – A five-storey grist mill built in 1832. In the 1970s, it became the Elora Mill Inn. After a 27 million renovation, the Elora Mill Hotel and Spa opened in July 2018 and featured 30 rooms and a restaurant.

Where Is Elora, Ontario? 

The Village of Elora is in the popular province of Ontario in Canada. Elora’s population is only just upwards of 3000 people, giving this small village a quaint and quiet atmosphere that, if you’re like me, will love that small-town feel.

I’m still trying to understand Ontario’s confusing makeup of towns, townships, counties, regions and municipalities, so forgive me. What I do know is that Elora is located in the township of Centre Wellington in Ontario’s Wellington County. The Township of Centre Wellington also includes the Town of Fergus and the Townships of Nichol, Pilkington, West Garafraxa, and part of Eramosa.

Elora to Toronto

By Bus

Taking public transportation to Elora is quite a challenge as it is such a small town and, thus, bus service is quite limited. You can that a GO Transit bus to reach Guelph. The trip will cost $18 if leaving from the TTC Victoria Park Bus Terminal and take approximately 2 1/2 hours with 2 transfers to get to Guelph.  

From Elora to Guelph, you may book your bus ride online or reach them here at 1-855-566-2378. The earliest departure time is around 10 am, and there may only be one bus per day – this is usually the case. Due to the COVID-19 crisis, it is always best to ask Kasper Transportation for the updated arrival and departure schedule.  

By Train

Trains run from Toronto to Guelph, but you would have to wait for the bus to Elora. You may buy your ticket via Train Buster. There are currently three schedules of departure: 8:18 am, 4:02 pm, and 4:19 pm. Booking the earliest time for departure means you’ll have to pay the highest amount compared to the other two options. 

The train trip from Toronto to Guelph takes about an hour.

Places to Stay In Elora + Accommodations Map

There are a variety of cozy home-style inns, bed and breakfasts, and hotels in Elora, Ontario, where you can enjoy a comfortable stay that feels like home. Whether you are staying for a single night or planning to stay a little longer, here are some great accommodations to consider:

Places To Eat In Elora 

Elora is filled with charming little places to dine out, from cute breakfast and coffee shops to the more refined local inn restaurants. I’ve covered the best breakfast, lunch, and dinner restaurants in Elora, Ontario, to help you find the best dining experience. Let’s start with breakfast.

The Lost and Found Cafe

The Lost and Found Cafe showcases a European vibe in Elora. This cafe is an excellent stop if you visit for a hike around Elora Gorge because they’re near each other. For health-conscious guests searching for the perfect spot to enjoy breakfast in Elora, they have organic, gluten-free, vegan, and vegetarian options.

The coffee they serve is some of the best in the province. You have three options to hang out here: an outdoor area, an indoor space, and a cute loft with a shelf full of books. According to previous customers, the most recommended order here is gluten-free quiche, matcha latte in almond milk, and the smoked salmon bagel.

Address: 45 West Mill St, Elora, Centre Wellington, Ontario, Canada
Website | Facebook | Contact Number: +1 226-384-5400 
Price Range: $$-$$$
Mon: 9am-4pm | Wed-Fri: 9am-4pm | Sat-Sun: 10pm-5pm 

The Elora Cafe 

A little further up the main street from the Elora downtown is The Elora Cafe. It’s difficult to miss it with its bright yellow sign. Grab a Montreal Bagel or Avocado Toast to go along with your coffee, or grab a Vegan Wrap or Avocado Turkey Bacon sandwich to take with you on your hike. This is one of our favourite breakfast spots in Elora.

Address: 1175 Geddes St #1, Elora, ON N0B 1S0
Website | Contact: (226) 337-4433
Mon – Fri: 6:30 – 4 | Sat & Sun: 9 – 5

Wreckless Eric

Despite the name Eric, which may be reckless, their coffee, food and catering services are not. The baristas will pour you a cup of one of their four fair trade organic coffee, loose-leaf teas, local beer or a signature cocktail. Beer and cocktails in the morning? Well, hell, it’s Wreckless Eric.

Meanwhile, back in the kitchen, the chef makes everything from scratch. Using only the best, fresh ingredients and products, the food can be described as “a new twist on old classics” – Bowls, Burritos, Salads and Gluten-free Treats.

Address: 90 Metcalfe St. Elora, Ontario N0B 1S0
Website | Contact Number: (226) 369-0261
Mon – Fri: 6-4 | Sat-Sun: 8-4

Elora Mill Restaurant

Elora Mill is one of the best restaurants in this town, serving delicious regional Ontarian cuisine. The best spot in this restaurant is undoubtedly the one that provides an incredible view of Elora Gorge. While you eat, you may also notice the river’s sound running by like waves to your ears. 

That’s why it’s not surprising that this restaurant was Top Chef Canada’s filming location from the past season. Elora Mill is a fancy restaurant owned by Elora Mill Hotel & Spa that offers a menu that changes per season.

Address: 77 West Mill Street, Elora, Centre Wellington, Ontario N0B 1S0 Canada
Price: $$$$
Website

The Friendly Society

The Friendly Society is a British-style restaurant and bar with a cozy, modern vibe, that serves soups, sandwiches, beers and more. It also has a large patio that overlooks the Grand River.

Address: 102-8 Mill St W, Elora, Centre Wellington, Ontario N0B 1S0 Canada
Open Tue-Sun: 12pm-11pm
Website

The Evelyn

The Evelyn is a French-inspired restaurant with outstanding, novel and delicious cuisine (with vegetarian options) and a charming atmosphere. It’s a little pricey but well worth the experience.

LaFontana

LaFontana is known for serving a delicious selection of homemade, fresh pasta and sauces and their traditional Neapolitan wood-oven baked pizza. 

They’re very passionate about local, sustainable, and seasonal food. If you’re the romantic type, they have additional lawn seating by the river. 

Address: 15 Mill St E, Elora, Centre Wellington, Ontario N0B 1S0 Canada
Price: $$-$$$
Sun: 11:30am-7pm | Tue-Thu: 5pm-9pm | Fri-Sat: 11:30am-3pm & 5pm-9pm
Website

The Cellar Pub

The Cellar Pub and Grill is a tiny place in the rear of the building with a lovely patio right on the Grand River. Other dishes worth ordering are prime rib, fish & chips, feta salad, calamari, and mussels. This is the perfect place for a relaxing evening or to dine out in Elora at night.

Address: 13 Mill St, Elora, Centre Wellington, Ontario N0B 1S0 Canada
Price: $$-$$$
Daily: 11am-9pm
Website 

Elora Brewing Company

Elora Brewing Company is a local craft microbrewery serving rotating house drafts, a flight of beers & modern takes on classic comfort food. Surrounded by century-old heritage, The Elora Brewing Company provides an authentic craft beer experience, especially the IPAs. 

They also have lagers, stouts, sour ale, and more. Elora Brewing Company has a beautiful stone facade and interiors. The building is tastefully decorated with exposed beams and stone and adequate lighting throughout. There is also a lovely open garage door spot at the restaurant’s front, which looks on the street.  

Address: 107 Geddes St, Elora, Centre Wellington, Ontario N0B 1S0 Canada
Price: $$-$$$
Sun: 11am-9pm | Mon-Thu: 11am-11pm | Fri-Sat: 11am-1am
Website 

Handsome Devil Bistro

The Handsome Devil Bistro is a casual, upbeat restaurant that values exceptional food created with quality, local ingredients. The heaters on the patio here make for a lovely extended outdoor season. Previous guests swear they serve the best house-smoke and beef brisket sandwiches. It’s a great place to grab dinner in Elora.

Beer lovers don’t have to look further because the Bistro has Ontario craft beer rotating on five taps right under the roof. The same is true for cocktail lovers – tell the bartender what you like and be prepared to be impressed.   

Address: 146 Metcalfe St, Elora, ON N0B 1S0, Canada
Price: $$-$$$
Mon-Tue: Closed | Wed-Sat: 11:30am-10pm | Sun: 11:30am-7pm
Website

What To Do In Elora? Elora Gorge Activities 

Now that you have enjoyed a meal at one of the many Elora, Ontario restaurants we shared, it’s time to explore some of the town’s attractions. Despite its small population, there are plenty of things to do in Elora, from cultural attractions to farmers’ markets.

You can read below to learn more about what to do in Elora, Ontario on your next visit.

Elora Mews

The picturesque lantern-lit courtyard of the Elora Mews shopping center at 45 Mill St. West, a 1-hour drive North-West of Toronto, is known for its historic stone buildings along the Grand River, unique shops and eateries, a lively art and music scene, giftware, vintage wares and fashions, incredible nature and hiking in the Gorge.

The patio and cafe tables in the Mews are a relaxing place for a break while shopping at the unique surrounding boutiques.

Address: 45 W Mill St, Elora, ON N0B 1S0, Canada
Price: $$-$$$
Mon-Fri: 10am-6pm | Sat-Sun: 11am-5pm
Website

The Wellington Museum and Archives

The Wellington County Museum and Archives is housed in Canada’s earliest surviving example of a Poor House (later called the House of Industry), built in 1877. Now a National Historic Site, the Museum houses two floors of exhibits that tell Wellington County’s people, places, and events. 

The Archives is a state-of-the-art, award-winning facility to research local, national, and international records. In addition, it’s not far from another quaint town in Wellington County called Fergus. While it’s known for the Scottish Festival, there are a few other things to do in Fergus that you’ll love.

Address: 536 Wellington Rd 18, Elora, Centre Wellington, Ontario N1M 2W3 Canada
Price: General admission by donation; fees for special events, programs, and guided tours may apply. Free parking is available.
Mon-Fri: 9:30am-4:30pm | Sat-Sun: 1pm-5pm
Website

Blown Away Glass Studio

Because of these charming small towns, many artists, excellent hiking trails, natural beauty, and old heritage, many travellers find their way to this glass blowing studio in Elora, which was established in 1999. 

The creative team of Katherine and Tim McManus designs and produces blown glass sculptures, chandeliers, awards, and decorative pieces for homes, offices, and galleries. You’ll enjoy viewing them at work in the Hotshop if you come while they’re blowing. 

Price: $$
Tue-Fri: 10am-6pm | Sat: 10am-5pm | Sun: 10am-4pm
Website

Elora Farmers Market

We can’t list our favourite Elora attractions without including the Elora Farmers’ Market. It is a vibrant outdoor market throughout the summer and a relaxing indoor market experience all winter. The new walkthrough market will be at Bissell Park on Saturdays.  

Despite it’s size, it is a quaint little market with a good selection of local produce, from fresh greens & vegetables to local beef, lamb, and farm-to-table produce.

Address: Bissell Park, 127 E Mill St, Elora, ON N0B 1S0, Canada
Price: Free Admission
Sat: 9am-1pm.
Website

Elora Things To Do Outdoors

If you’re an outdoor lover, you may be searching for things to do in Elora, Ontario, to embrace the beauty of the area. Don’t worry. There are plenty of fun ways to get outside!

The Grand River cuts through Elora like a knife. On one end you can walk along the river’s edge, then further down the river has gouged out the rock to make a steep gorge. There are spots you can do some rock climbing and even ice climbing in the winter.

Bissell Park

Bissell Park is a small city park in Elora, Ontario, near the banks of the Grand River. It is home to the annual Riverfest music festival and the weekly Elora Farmers Market. The park features a large wooden boardwalk that extends along the length of the park and contains a playground, picnic tables, and benches.

Elora Centre Green Space & The Tall Man Statue

This tiny park in the middle of a bustling street corner (Metcalfe and West Mill Street) wasn’t always a park. In fact, it was once a gas station. With its big shady trees and Muskoka chairs, this sanctuary is the perfect place to take a break from shopping, grab a sweet snack, or people-watch. There are several interesting sculptures here, but The Tall Man sculpture was created by artist Scott McNichol, and its actually named, “Who’s in Charge.”

Elora Gorge Lookout | Victoria Park

The Elora Gorge Lookout is one of the most visited spots in the town of Elora. The gorge is pretty steep and makes for stunning views, with the Grand River cutting through it. Elora Gorge’s activities include tubing, camping, hiking, and swimming. 

Overlooking scenic views provide hikers with the stunning sight of the water far below, where kayakers and tubers make their way through the rapids.

Address: 7400 Wellington County Rd 21, Elora, ON N0B 1S0, Canada
Price:  Child: $3 | Adult: $7.50
Daily: 8am-9pm

The Elora Quarry Conservation Area: The Elora Quarry

This two-acre limestone quarry is encircled by magnificent cliffs up to 12 meters high. The tree-covered park has places to picnic, swim, hike, and enjoy nature. Note that alcohol and dogs are not allowed at this park. In order to lessen the environmental impact, a maximum of 1,300 guests allowed, so make sure to arrive early before it gets crowded.

Elora Quarry History 

The Elora Quarry has a rich history dating back to the early 1900s. A company called the Whitestone Lime Company started operations here when they began their limestone operations. In 1930, the lime became impure, leading to the quarry being abandoned by Whitestone, which moved to another site. 

Today, the quarry is a popular destination in Ontario and a favourite amongst locals. 

Address: 319 Wellington County Rd 18, Elora, ON N0B 1S0, Canada
Admission fee: $10.50

The Elora Gorge Conservation Area

The Elora Gorge Conservation Area surrounds the Grand River gorge with its 22-metre-high cliffs, riverside trails, camping, kayaking, and tubing on the rapids.

The Campsites costs between $39 to $48, depending on the site. But if you’re not planning on camping, the conservation area is open from 8 am to sunset from May to October and costs $7.00 for the day. 

Hiking In Elora: Elora Trails

Elora Gorge Trails 

The Elora Gorge Trail: The Elora Gorge is simply gorgeous – one of the most beautiful natural areas in the Grand River Valley. The riverside trails and scenic overlooks from the 22-metre-high cliffs will give you some stunning views, while down below, tubers and kayakers make their way through the rapids.

The main highlight of this trail is the 20-metre waterfall that clings to limestone cliffs. 

My friend Lauren from Ontario Hiking talks about the specific details regarding the Elora Gorge trail, like how to enter as part of the area is private property, a map, and pictures and highlights.  

Lover’s Leap Trail: Commemorates a legendary Indian princess who is said to have leapt to her death after her lover was killed in battle.

Trestle Bridge Loop: is a 9-kilometre reasonably trafficked loop trail near Centre Wellington that features a river and is suitable for all skill levels. Dogs can also use this trail but must be kept on a leash.

Elora Cataract Trailway

The Elora Cataract Trailway has initially been the route of the Credit Valley Railway. The mainline was constructed in 1879 between Toronto and Orangeville. The branch line from Cataract to Elora was built at the same time. 

Its 47-kilometre railway links the Grand and Credit watersheds and follows the old Canadian Pacific railroad bed. It runs through rolling countryside east of Elora, through the historic community of Fergus, and past Belwood Lake to the Forks of Credit Provincial Park at Cataract. 

The Grand River Conservation Authority and the Credit Valley Conservation Authority own the trail.

Price: No Admission fee
Daily: 8am-9pm
Website 

Elora Cataract Trailway Trail Events: In addition, the Elora Cataract Trailway hosts many events on the trail, like the Elora Cataract Trailway Trail Workday at the Erin Station site.

Elora Gorge Kayaking, Canoeing, Tubing & Rafting

Elora Paddle Company

Located in the heart of Elora, Elora Paddle Company offers fun and affordable canoe and kayak rentals that will take you along the beautiful Grand River. You can start your 45-minute paddle from their dock and head upstream along ancient limestone cliffs to the waterfall at the beautiful Bissell Park (mentioned above). Then head back to the dock, down the river, with scenic views of the historic riverside buildings.

The gentle current makes for a relaxing paddle experience that’s good for all levels & abilities, and you can choose between one of the two sit-on-top kayaks or a canoe. All Personal Flotation Devices (PFDs) and equipment are included, and they accept walk-ups, reservations, and all card payments.

Address: 11 East Mill Street, Elora, ON N0B 1S0
Price: $$
Monday-Thursday: 2:00pm to 8:00pm, Friday & Sunday: 11:00am to 8:00pm, Saturday: 10:00am to 8:00pm

Elora Rapids & Adventure Tours

Elora Rapids is a locally owned and operated family business that provides river tubing & kayaking rental equipment if you like outdoor activities. They also operate bicycle rentals/tours around Elora and the Elora Gorge. 

Experience the Elora Gorge’s beauty and its towering cliffs as you float through its numerous rapids. Or head out for a leisurely bicycle tour throughout Elora’s charming downtown and along its trails and parks.

Address: 78 James St, Elora, ON N0B 1S0, Canada
Price: $$
Daily: (Weather Permitting) 10 am-6 pm
Website

Another experience Elora Raft Rides offers is Punting. Punting? What is punting, you ask? A punt is a flat-bottomed, square-cut vessel that navigates the shallows of small rivers and other bodies of water.

A pole propels the vessel pushed into the river bed, a practice called punting. Historically, punts have been used to transport cargo, as well as for fowling and fishing. Today, however, punting is primarily done for recreational purposes.

Elora Raft Rides offers:

• Piloted Safaris – This allows you to discover the beauty of the Grand River with Elora Raft Rides staff on a shared raft ride.
• Custom Cruises – A pre-arranged Custom Cruise perfect for the romantic type that accompanies beautiful classical music, captivating stories or learning about the area’s history.
• Bare Boat Escapes – Experience the beauty of the Grand River as you captain your own Classic Punt.

Address: 38 W Mill St, Elora, ON N0B 1S0, Canada
Price: $$
Mon, Wed, & Fri: Closed | Tue, Thu & Sat: 8:30am-6:30pm 
Website

Elora Ontario Upcoming Events

Elora Rivertown Festival 

Rivertown Fest is one of the best annual Elora events. It is a popular Ontario music festival, hosting Canadian acts such as Alice Merton, City & Colour, and Men Without Hats. There are three stages, each hosting performers from a variety of genres. 

This annual festival is ten years old and has hosted names as big as MGMT and Metric. Throw in a food court and a park in the middle of the forest, and you’ve got Elora’s unforgettable Rivertown Festival. 

Address: 84 E Mill St, Elora, ON N0B 1S0, Canada
Price: $109-$205 (subject to change)
Website

Final Thoughts – Things to Do in Elora

This small town may not be the first road trip destination to come to mind, but we are sure there are things to do, see, and explore for travellers of all ages and interests. While it is close enough for a quick day trip from Toronto, there are many places to stay in Elora for a relaxing weekend getaway. Whether you’re looking for a fun hiking adventure or a chance to shop the many small-town shops, you will have a great time!  

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