Best Places to Vacation in Canada: A Guide for Americans
For many American travelers, escaping to cabin country means heading to the lakes of Upstate New York, Minnesota, the forests of Wisconsin, or the mountains of Tennessee. You might not know that just across the border, Ontario’s cottage country offers an incredible alternative to the beloved U.S. lake and cabin destinations—with luxury vacation home rentals, pristine nature, and unique cultural experiences. The best part, the US dollar goes a very long way.
Here’s how Canada’s premier cottage vacation rentals compare to America’s most cherished cabin and luxury vacation retreats.
1. Muskoka – Similar to The Hamptons, NY
The Hamptons are known for their luxury beachfront homes, celebrity sightings, and upscale summer lifestyle. Lake Muskoka delivers a similarly luxurious experience—but with a quieter, more natural charm. Think elegant waterfront vacation homes, private docks, boutique shopping, and fine dining—minus the crowds and sky-high prices. Here, you’ll find peace and privacy without sacrificing sophistication. For U.S. travelers looking to unwind in style, Muskoka offers a more affordable and accessible luxury escape that’s still off the beaten path.
Vacation rentals in Muskoka:
2. Haliburton Highlands – Similar to The Great Smoky Mountains, TN/NC
Fans of the Great Smoky Mountains love rolling hills, dense forests, and rich wildlife. The Haliburton Highlands in Ontario offer a similar landscape but with a distinctly Canadian twist. You can hike through vast provincial parks, paddle down crystal-clear rivers, and spot moose in their natural habitat. And unlike the busy Smokies, you’ll find a more tranquil, crowd-free experience—with plenty of secluded cabin rentals available.
Vacation rentals in Haliburton:
3. Georgian Bay – Similar to Upstate New York’s Adirondacks & Lake Champlain
If your idea of the perfect cabin escape involves rugged shorelines, mountain views, and vast open waters, then Georgian Bay rivals the Adirondacks and Lake Champlain. With over 30,000 islands, secluded inlets, and charming waterfront towns like Parry Sound and Tobermory, it’s a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts looking for an unspoiled retreat and unforgettable lakefront vacation homes.
Vacation Homes Available to Rent:
4. The Kawarthas -Similar to Michigan’s Lake District
Much like Michigan’s beloved lake regions—such as Traverse City, Petoskey, or Torch Lake—the Kawarthas offer a string of interconnected lakes perfect for boating, fishing, and swimming. With charming small towns, cozy cottage rentals, and a growing craft beer and wine scene, the Kawarthas bring the same laid-back summer vibe just a little further north.
Vacation Homes Available to Rent:
5. Parry Sound & The French River – Similar to Maine’s Moosehead Lake & Northern Woods
For those who cherish the untamed wilderness and canoe routes of Maine’s backcountry, Ontario’s Parry Sound region and the French River provide an equally breathtaking backdrop. These areas offer pristine waters, rugged landscapes, and a deep connection to Canada’s storied canoeing history. If you’re after an off-the-grid adventure, you’ll find it here—with the comfort of well-appointed vacation cabin rentals to return to at night.
Vacation Homes Available to Rent:
Why Make the Trip This Year?
- Favorable Exchange Rate – Your U.S. dollars stretch further in Canada, giving you more value for your vacation without compromising on quality.
- Easy Border Access – Ontario’s top destinations are just a short drive from many northern U.S. states, making this an easy international road trip.
- Less Crowded, More Nature – Skip the packed beaches and overbooked resorts. Ontario’s cottage country offers serene landscapes and authentic outdoor experiences.
- Luxury Without the Price Tag – From high-end vacation home rentals to secluded lakefront cottages, enjoy premium accommodations at a fraction of U.S. luxury pricing.
- Cultural Curiosity – Discover a unique blend of Canadian hospitality, rich wilderness heritage, and a slower pace of life that invites you to truly unplug.
- Family-Friendly & Safe – Ontario’s cottage regions are perfect for multigenerational travel, offering everything from watersports to hiking trails, all in a secure, welcoming environment.
This summer, instead of heading to your usual cabin or beach getaway, why not venture north and discover why so many U.S. travelers are falling in love with Ontario’s vacation home rental scene and pristine cottage country.
Alex Laframboise
Alex is a champion of Ontario’s cottage lifestyle, leveraging her love for nature and years of management expertise to create unforgettable rental experiences. Cottaging near Lake Nipissing, Alex developed a deep connection to cottage country, which inspires her storytelling and marketing work at Cottage Vacations.
