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!
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 Car
A day trip from Elora to Toronto will take you just over ninety minutes on the road, depending on whether you take your car, rent a car, or catch a ride on the bus. You can also catch the train to Elora from Toronto. The train and bus schedules to and from Elora can be found below.
FYI, getting to Elora by Bus or Train is logistically possible, and with the options, you will arrive in Guelph. From Guelph, you would need to take a bus to Elora. In my opinion, it’s probably better to rent a car, carpool or find a friend with a car.
Parking In Elora
Parking is free on all city streets. Finding prime parking spots during the summer can be harder than finding them during the rest of the year.
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 restaurant located in the Elora Inn. 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
Address: 45 West Mill St, Elora, Centre Wellington, Ontario, Canada
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.
The Wild Tart
Address: 61 Metcalfe St, Elora, Centre Wellington, Ontario N0B 1S0 Canada
The Wild Tart is a European patisserie offering the finest cafe-style dining, exquisite afternoon teas, bubbles, cocktails, and a daily take-out counter to start your day in the heart of beautiful Elora. After enjoying Elora Gorge Falls, visiting this restaurant may be an excellent idea.
They also offer a full vegan afternoon tea option, including finger sandwiches, cakes, and pastries. This is the place to be if you’re looking for an authentic European cafe with a beautiful patio and indoor space.
The Elora Cafe
Address: 1175 Geddes St #1, Elora, ON N0B 1S0
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 the locals’ favourite breakfast spots in Elora.
Wreckless Eric
Address: 90 Metcalfe St. Elora, Ontario N0B 1S0
Despite the name Eric, being 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.
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. 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.
The menu is seasonal, so the items may vary depending on your visit, but I hand this incredible mouth-watering lamb burger, and as you get to know me, you’ll know how much I love lamb. Gordana had the Salmon. Both my brothers, his girlfriend, Gordana and I had just finished Canoeing along the Grand River and popped in here for lunch. The view of the gorge is incredible!
Address: 77 West Mill Street, Elora, Centre Wellington, Ontario N0B 1S0 Canada
The Friendly Society
Address: 102-8 Mill St W, Elora, Centre Wellington, Ontario N0B 1S0 Canada
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.
The Evelyn
Address: 130 Metcalfe St, Elora, Centre Wellington, Ontario N0B 1S0 Canada
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. I had the house burger and it was juicy and delicious. Gordana had a Vegetarian Thai stew which she was too fond of but the atmosphere on the patio was super relaxing with a beer!
LaFontana
Address: 15 Mill St E, Elora, Centre Wellington, Ontario N0B 1S0 Canada
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.
Sweet Distractions
Address: 16 Mill St W, Elora, ON N0B 1S0
Sweet Distractions serves ice cream, gelato, and chocolate, as well as retro candies, British candy, baked goods, and more! They have some great flavours as well as some tasty non-dairy options + incredible staff. If you’re like Gordana and I and love sweets, then this distraction might not be a good one (haha).
The Cellar Pub
Address: 13 Mill St, Elora, Centre Wellington, Ontario N0B 1S0 Canada
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.
Elora Brewing Company
Address: 107 Geddes St, Elora, Centre Wellington, Ontario N0B 1S0 Canada
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. I tried a flight of blonde, lagers and pilsners, each one more delicious than the last!
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.
Elora Distilling
The Elora Distilling Company, a rather new addition to Elora’s downtown, was founded by Marty and Mark and is a must-see if you love gins, vodkas, liqueurs and ryes.
They have toured the globe, sipping beverages in some of the world’s most iconic establishments, from North America to Europe and North Africa. From The Algonquin in New York to The Ritz in Madrid, The Savoy in London, The Gezirah Palace in Cairo and the Ritz Carleton in Montreal, these intrepid adventurers have gathered recipes and knowledge as they went.
The final result is a unique atmosphere of craft cocktails and drinks that anyone can appreciate. Tours, happy hours and private bookings can all be arranged at their grand Royal Room.
Handsome Devil Bistro
Address: 146 Metcalfe St, Elora, ON N0B 1S0, Canada
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.
What To Do In Elora? Elora Gorge Activities
Now that you have enjoyed a meal at one of the many 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
Address: 45 W Mill St, Elora, ON N0B 1S0, Canada
The picturesque lantern-lit courtyard of the Elora Mews shopping center 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 fashion.
The patio and cafe tables in the Mews are a relaxing place for a break while shopping at the unique surrounding boutiques.
The Wellington Museum and Archives
Address: 536 Wellington Rd 18, Elora, Centre Wellington, Ontario N1M 2W3 Canada
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.
Elora Centre For The Arts
Address: 75 Melville St, Elora, ON N0B 1S0, Canada
The Elora Centre For The Arts is located in a restored, three-story limestone schoolhouse in one of Ontario’s most picturesque villages. They have two gallery spaces where artist exhibitions are featured ongoing throughout the year.
Their gallery also features a pop-up gift shop with handmade artisan products in spring, summer, and fall. Live music performances and special events are hosted in the gallery or their yard throughout the year. You can check the official website for upcoming events.
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.
Elora Farmers Market
Address: Bissell Park, 127 E Mill St, Elora, ON N0B 1S0, Canada
Price: Free Admission
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.
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 surrounded 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
Address: 319 Wellington County Rd 18, Elora, ON N0B 1S0, Canada
Admission fee: $10.50
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.
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.
One Axe Pursuits
Address: 24 Henderson St, Elora, ON N0B1S0
Step out of your comfort zone and experience the historic town from a breathtakingly different perspective, either by zipline, rappel, or ice climbing! With programs for the complete beginner to the intermediate adventurer, they offer high-quality instructions for every participant level.
You don’t have to go to Everest for excellent outdoor ice climbing. Jump off their 200-foot zipline and rappel 25 meters down the gorge in Elora, directly into Elora’s Grand River. Rappel straight out of their 20-meter-high bell tower for an unforgettable experience.
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.
Elora Gorge Kayaking, Canoeing, Tubing & Rafting
Elora Paddle Company
Address: 11 East Mill Street, Elora, ON N0B 1S0
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.
Elora Rapids & Adventure Tours
Address: 78 James St, Elora, ON N0B 1S0, Canada
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.
Elora Raft Rides
Address: 38 W Mill St, Elora, ON N0B 1S0, Canada
Elora Raft Rides offer guided boat rides such as starlight and musical cruises piloted by chauffeurs and accompanied by local talent. You can pretend to be a pioneer on Canada’s only RiverBug Raft Ride, a unique & award-winning Eco-Adventure.
Escorted by a Trip Guide, you will captain your RiverBug Raft and travel over 36 gentle rapids. On the journey, you’ll pass under four bridges, descend over five mini waterfalls, navigate around eight islands, explore two riverside ruins & discover 400-million-year-old fossils.
Elora Ontario Upcoming Events
Elora Rivertown Festival
Address: 84 E Mill St, Elora, ON N0B 1S0, Canada
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.
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!
FAQs
How many days should I spend in Elora?
With so many fun things to do in Elora, you can spend the entire day, or even a couple of days, here. Being such a short distance from Toronto, the average time spent in Elora is a day .
What is the weather in Elora, Ontario?
Like any town in Ontario, Elora offers you a chance to enjoy all four seasons. The driest month is February, receiving an average of 2.4 inches of precipitation, while at its peak, in June, the area sees an average of 4.0 inches. The coldest month is January, which averages -7 degrees Celsius (19.4 degrees Fahrenheit). If warmer weather is your preference, the temperatures peak in July with an average of 20.5 degrees Celsius (68.8 degrees Fahrenheit).
Is there anything specific I should bring for a trip to Elora?
What should you bring for your Elora vacation? This will depend on your chosen activities. Most places where you rent canoes, kayaks, and other watercraft will also provide you with the necessary safety gear, including life jackets. However, if you have a specific style that you prefer to wear, such as an inflatable life jacket, you can bring your own.
Each of the Elora, Ontario hotels will provide you with everything you need for a good night’s sleep. If you are staying for an extended period or struggle to get comfortable at night, you may choose to bring your own pillow (like a cooling memory foam pillow or specialized side sleep pillow) or a sleep sound machine if you aren’t used to the quieter environment of a small town.
For a safe and comfortable experience hiking, ensure you pack a comfortable pair of hiking boots or shoes. Check the weather before your trip so you can dress accordingly.
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