Top 12 Instagram-Worthy Summer Spots in Southwest Ontario

Misty lake in Ontario

Top 12 Instaworthy
Summer Spots

in Southwest
Ontario

The 12 Insta-Worthy Summer Spots in Southwest Ontario

It’s summertime, and the living is easy… well, almost. The days are growing longer and so is the list of things to do and places to see. Southwest Ontario transforms in the warm weather to a lively, beautiful slice of natural beauty and an enhanced sense of community.

From Windsor to London and everywhere in between, there are hidden gems everywhere. Cute, quaint towns, charming historical buildings, nature reserves and vintage markets have made summer road trips in Ontario a nostalgic and treasured memory for all. Whether you’re visiting from overseas, or living just down the road, put these 12 places on your list of places to see.

We’ve scoured the web and racked our minds to create an Instagram-worthy, grid-gorgeous list of the very best Southwest Ontario has to offer.

Merla Mae, London

Photo by @dineandfash

This charming little ice cream stand is home to delicious ice cream that has been keeping Londoners cool since 1957. Check out the flavour-packed menu and snap a few photos with your bestie in the vintage decor, classic typeface and vibrant colours.

Grand Bend

Photo by @colejaysen

Grand Bend is the top summer road trip beach destination for southwest Ontarians. Charming shops, a happening nightlife and the friendliest boating community you may ever encounter. World-class people watching, and a busy events calendar make this place a photography dream.

Erieau, Ontario

Photo by @wilhelmina_71

This iconic lighthouse stands alone facing off with storms on Lake Erie. Whether you visit in fine or fierce weather is up to you, but in either case, this iconic shot is worth the drive to Erieau. Pack a jacket.

caso station

The Canada Southern Railway Station is a former working station in St. Thomas, Ontario. The station was built by the Canada Southern Railway in 1871, and is now home to the North America Railway Hall of Fame, and one epic birckwork backdrop. Pop inside and learn a little more about Canada’s storied railway history.

Point PELEE

A popular trail that receives the most visitors at Point Pelee National Park, the Marsh Boardwalk allows you to gain insight into the marsh ecosystem that is often overlooked and requires protection. From two large towers, you can take in fantastic views of the ponds and cattail marsh. The moodier the sky, the better.

Shaw’s ice cream

A peice of melt in your mouth nostalgia, Shaw’s Dairy Bar has been a frequent stop for so many of us from childhood to parenthood. En route to Port Stanley, this roadside stop is a perfect detour and rest stop to take a little time to soak up the simple life.

Lake Huron

Photo by @kendiddle

An immense lake as beautiful as it is tranquil, each visit to this great lake offers a new face and canvass on which to paint. Light, water, wind and reflection create a ruggedly beautiful background for your dream long weekend city escape.

THE Pinery Market

Photo by @pinerymarket

Nothing quite encapsulates Ontario summer like weekend flea markets. The Pinery has been opening it’s doors every Sunday for over 50 years to locals and visitors looking for something unique or casually browsing the many handicraft and food vendors while taking in live performances. Bring your camera and snap away at the many antiques you’ll find in this authentic Grand Bend tradition.

Boler Mountain

Photo by @ontsouthwest

Summertime in the Forest City and the living is…. action packed! Boler Mountain ski hill transforms to an epic outdoor activity zone. The Tree Top Adventure Park is the perfect place for a birds eye view of the forest city. Quite possibly the bet views in London, this spot is a must.

Rondeau Provincial Park

Photo by @_haveroth

The second oldest provincial park is home to all kinds of wildlife, including adorable and inquisitive deer. Be patient, and steady your shot for the perfect snap.

Cantara Beach

Sarnia has nice beaches? They sure do! The sandy beach located within Sarnia’s Canatara Park stretches nearly a kilometer along Lake Huron’s pristine coastline. The sun setting on the horizon offers a broad palettte of colours that will liven up the most vibrant of Instagram accounts.

Amherstburg, Ontario

Housed in a former poorhouse that dates back to 1877, this museum and cultural centre is a National Historic Site that tells the stories of the people and places of Wellington County through curated exhibits. The expansive grounds of the museum also offer an impactful backdrop for arts and history buffs to take lust-worthy Instagram pitcures.

Top 10 Places Heating Up on Instagram: Elora and Fergus

Seven doors Elora and Fergus

Top 10 Instagram
Spots in

Elora & Fergus

The 10 Places Heating Up on Instagram: Elora and Fergus

Scrolling through Instagram, people often find themselves stricken with a serious case of wanderlust—trekking to exotic destinations around the globe, travel influencers and enthusiasts alike are constantly capturing mesmerizing shots and sharing captivating candids that are sure to make their followers jealous.

Instagram may have you daydreaming about being whisked away, but luckily you do not have to travel far to snag the perfect selfie. Just outside of Toronto, the villages of Elora and Fergus have been drawing in crowds who are looking to travel off the beaten path and up their social media game with Instagram-worthy photos tagged #EloraFergus.

Here are the top places in Elora and Fergus heating up on Instagram.

Templin Gardens in Elora and Fergus

TEMPLIN GARDENS

Photo by @elorafergus

With carved stone archways, parapet walls and tiered landscape gardens that lead down to the Grand River, this historic landmark offers an original backdrop for those looking to capture a covetable Instagram shot.

LOVER’S LEAP

Photo by @_tannis_

Found just outside Victoria Park in Elora, this lookout provides photographers natural lighting and a stunning view where the Grand and Irvine Gorges converge.

lovers leap in elora and fergus
Elora Mill Hotel and Spa

ELORA MILL HOTEL & SPA

Photo by @jess_scott_

With a breathtaking mill overlooking thundering falls, what more could you ask for? The Elora Mill is an iconic historical landmark that has been nestled at the heart of its community for over 175 years, and is a must-visit for amateur and professional photographers alike.

The Tall Man

Photo by @dizzzy.bees

If you are looking for an incredible photo that will rack up plenty of likes, you need to check out the Tall Man. Titled “Who’s in Charge”, this finger-pointing fixture in downtown Elora is one of many notable art features within the village and is perfect for taking personal poses.

Tall Man Elora
Elora Gorge

Elora Gorge

Photo by @stuminous

The Elora Gorge is a definite go-to for Instagram enthusiasts, with scenic overlooks and riverside trails providing a spectacular view of natural rapids. For photographers looking for a gorgeous natural area to frame your photo, this is the place for you.

Irvine Street Bridge (David Street Bridge)

Photo by @carly_hodge

Visible from Victoria Park in Elora, David Street Bridge is one of the most popular views within the city and one of the most photographed from the river below. An engineering masterpiece surrounded by trees and limestone cliffs, photos of this bridge are sure to garner plenty of attention on Instagram.

Irvine Street Bridge
Seven Doors Elora and Fergus

The Seven Doors

Photo by @helina___

A photo of this hidden gem is sure to make your followers jealous! Located on Metcalf Street in downtown Elora, the Seven Doors provide a pop of colour and an eclectic feel for a next-level Instagram selfie.

(For all things travel from Sarah and Rob adventures, check out the blog)

THE WELLINGTON COUNTY MUSEUMS AND  ARCHIVES

Housed in a former poorhouse that dates back to 1877, this museum and cultural centre is a National Historic Site that tells the stories of the people and places of Wellington County through curated exhibits. The expansive grounds of the museum also offer an impactful backdrop for arts and history buffs to take lust-worthy Instagram pitcures.
Wellington Country Museums and Archives Building
Elora Quarry

Elora Quarry

Probably the most popular spot on this list, the Elora Quarry is the perfect place for people looking to cool off and take plenty of nature-inspired selfies. 

From your tube

Photo by @aarondoinie

There is no better way to capture the beauty of Elora and Fergus than directly on the water! For those adventure-seekers looking to go the extra mile and have a GoPro at-the-ready, water tubing is available between the two cities throughout the summer months.

31 Most Instagrammable Places In Vancouver | Top Photo Spots | Vancouver, Canada

Vancouver skyline at dusk

31 Most Instagrammable
Places in

Vancouver

The 31 Most Instagrammable Places In Vancouver

Are you looking for the best Instagram spots in Vancouver? Well you’ve come to the right place. We’ve put together a comprehensive list to help you discover the most Instagrammable places in Vancouver – the city that has it all. Vancouver is an energetic city set in a landscape of jaw dropping mountains and dense forest, paired with a rugged coastline and expansive waterside views. Located on the West coast of Canada, this epic city is the ultimate playground that offers visitors and residents so much to see and do. The diversity of Vancouver’s residents creates an exciting mix of cultures, which has also lead to an unbeatable international food scene. On top of all of this, Vancouver is an incredibly photogenic city. With scenic hiking trails and coastal cycle paths, plus architecture, museums, and art installations, there are endless opportunities to capture some stunning photos. Without further ado, scroll down to find out which places made our list of the best Instagram spots in Vancouver.

Visiting Vancouver? Check out our list of the best places to eat in Vancouver.

City view from Vancouver Lookout

Photo by @intothe.west

Vancouver Lookout is a great first stop as you arrive in the city as you can get an idea of where everything is by viewing it from above. Ascend the tower in a glass elevator to reach an observation deck 167 m above sea level. You’ll be rewarded with 360° views of Metro Vancouver, the North Shore Mountains, and Vancouver Island in the distance. Aim to visit just before sunset so you can appreciate the city in daylight, at golden hour, and as the city lights up at night. This definitely deserves a place on our list of the most Instagrammable places in Vancouver. 

Top of Vancouver Revolving Restaurant

Photo by @themisterwayne

Bring food and photography together in this epic Instagrammable place in Vancouver. Experience fine dining in one of Vancouver’s tallest buildings. At the top of the Vancouver Lookout tower lies Top of Vancouver Revolving Restaurant. With angled windows to maximise the city views, and a complete revolution every 60 seconds, this definitely makes for a memorable experience and an epic photo opportunity.

Are you a foodie? Check out the 9 Best Restaurants in Vanvouver!

Gastown District & Clock

Photo by @luanahrih

Gastown is one of the coolest neighbourhoods in Vancouver. It was the original settlement at the core of Vancouver’s development. The old Victorian buildings are now full of indie art galleries and chic cocktail lounges. Gastown Steam Clock is one of the area’s main attractions, known for it’s antique style and unique steam-fuelled whistle that tells the time. Gastown easily makes the list of the best Instagram spots in Vancouver.

Love great food? Check out the Top Restaurants in Vancouver.

Polygon Gallery

Photo by @heyandywhite

Located on Vancouver’s waterfront, the Polygon Gallery is a vibrant art institution showcasing photography and related media. This contemporary structure was designed by Patkau Architects, and opened to the public at the end of 2017. The unique design of the building makes it an awesome place to play with light and angles in your photos. Its no wonder why the Polygon Gallery is one of the best Instagram Spots in Vancouver.

Robson Square & Ice Rink

Photo by @truenorthvibes

Robson Square is located in the very heart of downtown Vancouver. From December until February, an outdoor ice rink becomes the focus of the square, offering free skating for everyone, every day of the week. The combination of old and new buildings surrounding the square plus the cool lighting in the ice rink make this an awesome place for night shots. There is no wonder why we added Robson Square to the list of the most instagrammable places in Vancouver.

Moon&Back Gallery

Photo by @nicolehuii

This awesome mirror light exhibit in Richmond is a photographers dream. As the first of it’s kind in Vancouver, the Moon & Back Gallery is full of interactive and photogenic art displays. The installations are spread out across multiple rooms creating awesome backdrops for your photos. This is easily one of the most Instagrammable places in Vancouver.

VanDusen Botanical Garden

Photo by @taramilktea

One of Vancouver’s best Instagram Spots is the Vandusen Botanical Garden. Spanning 55-acres in the heart of Vancouver, the VanDusen Botanical Garden is a true oasis in the city. With more than 7,500 plant species and an Elizabethan hedge maze, these gardens are perfect for spotting and photographing nature and wildlife. Seasonal light shows, exhibitions, and events take place across the gardens, combining art with nature in the most enlightening way. 

Aurora Winter Festival

Photo by @connieandluna

Jump into the Christmas spirit at The Aurora Winter Festival in Vancouver. The beautiful light displays are simply inspiring, and they’re just the tip of the iceberg… Discover a winter wonderland of amusement rides, market huts and food gardens, plus a frozen river you can skate down for the ultimate festive experience. So grab your camera and head to the Aurora Winter Festival to create the most magical winter content you can think of.

Digital Orca

The Digital Orca sculpture was installed next to the Vancouver Convention Centre in 2009. In this incredible display, artist Douglas Coupland pays homage to the Orca whale that is commonly seen off the west coast of Canada. The giant pixelated artwork depicts a killer whale frozen mid-leap, in a way that connects past, present and future. These are just a few of the reasons we’ve included the Digital Orca in our most instagrammable places in Vancouver list.

Olympic Village

Photo by @intothe.west

Now home to around 16,000 Vancouver residents, the Olympic Village was originally built to house athletes, coaches, and officials during the 2010 Winter Olympics and Paralympics. The development offers a highly sought after urban lifestyle
with the serenity of being on the waterfront. The location and modern architecture make it a great place for taking photos. With all that to consider, it is no surprise to find the Olympic village on our list of the best Instagram spots in Vancouver.

Audain Art Museum

Photo by @kento.iemoto

Another spectacular creation from the Patkau Architects, the Audain Art Museum is an architectural marvel. The museum’s permanent collection takes visitors on a visual journey from the late 18th century to present. The collection showcases artists from across the province, focusing on the richness of cultural difference in Canada. This place is definitely one of the most Instagrammable places in Vancouver.

Vancouver Public Library

Photo by @paulirwinloki

With a vision to inform, engage and connect the city, the Vancouver Public Library is a space that everyone can enjoy. The building is based on the famous Colosseum in Rome, designed with a greenroof on top for it’s CO2 benefits. Floor to ceiling windows and countless skylights flood the library with natural light, and offer an almost 360 degree view of the surrounding city. Check out this beautiful building and one of the most Instagrammable places in Vancouver.

Maan Farms Country Experience & Estate Winery

Photo by @taramilktea
Maan Farms began back in 1982 with a single roadside stall, and has since grown to combine farming, family and fun to create fantastic seasonal experiences. From wine tasting to Easter egg hunts, this family-run farm has it all. Naturally with so many seasonal events and homegrown produce to enjoy, the photo opportunities are endless. Think pumpkin patches, berry picking, and goat yoga!

Vancouver Mural Festival

Photo by @helenabradbury

Vancouver Mural Festival takes place in the Mount Pleasant neighbourhood for a week in August each year. The event is organized by Create Vancouver Society, a Registered Non-Profit who create permanent large-scale public murals and support artistic and cultural development in the Lower Mainland. The festival is a colourful and energetic celebration diverse local cultures and their histories.

Gryphon Development

The Gryphon Development takes condominium living to a whole new level. Located in Kerrisdale, Gryphon brings 25 years of inspired global architecture and artist-led design expertise to create a living space that puts art at the forefront. ‘Art lives here’ accurately describes this unique and unapologetically photogenic living development, and is the reason that it made it’s way to our list of the most Instagrammable places in Vancouver.

Most Instagrammable Places in Vancouver - lady surrounded by plants in the Vancouver Bloedel Conservatory

Bloedel Conservatory

Photo by @milkandcoffeelove

The Bloedel Conservatory is an indoor tropical garden and aviary at the top of Vancouver’s Queen Elizabeth Park. The conservatory is home to more than 120 free-flying exotic birds, and 500 exotic plants and flowers, all living together under an impressive glass dome. The entire dome can be lit up to recognize cultural occasions and important events, which are great opportunities for epic night shots.

Yaletown umbrellas at Bill Curtis Square

Head to Bill Curtis Square in Yaletown to find a canopy of colourful umbrellas. Tucked away behind the Canada Line station, this brightly coloured art installation is aptly called “Underbrella,”. It’s surely one of the most Instagrammable places in Vancouver, and will be the perfect backdrop for your next post.

Capilano Suspension Bridge Park

Photo by @connieandluna

The Capilano Suspension Bridge hangs 70 metres above the Capilano River in North Vancouver. Walk high up in the trees along the 140 metres long bridge, through thick forest and across the flowing river below. It’s a beautiful way to connect with nature, and an extremely picturesque setting for landscape and portrait photography. The bridge is decorated with lights at Christmas time, making this a particularly nice time to visit. Christmas or not, the Capiulano Suspension Bridge is one of the best Instagram spots in Vancouver.

The North Shore Eagle Bluffs

Photo by @kalgriz

Hike up to Eagle Bluffs for jaw-dropping panoramic views over the city and ocean below. Located on the rocky slopes above Eagle Harbour, this viewpoint is most often reached via a 4 hour round hike starting at the downhill ski area of Cypress Mountain. The reason this made our list of the most Instagrammable places in Vancouver is because the trail offers beautiful scenery from start to finish, including Cabin Lake and Black Mountain, and ending with the Eagle Bluffs view.

David Lam Park

Photo by @nicolehuii

Ideally located along the water’s edge, David Lam Park is a picturesque downtown park with sport courts, playgrounds and a spacious grassy area. Soak it all up as you hang out in the sun, with views of False Creek and Yaletown. Take a walk along the waterfront to discover a series of intriguing sculptures – they’re great locations for taking creative photos with a water and skyline backdrop. It’s easy to undersand how David Lam Park is considered one of Vancouver’s most Instagrammable Places.

Stanley Park Seawall walk

Photo by @boninmarlena

Head to the waterside for a 10-km loop around Stanley Park. Hugging the seawall, this is easily Vancouver’s most popular place to breathe in the fresh air and take in the calming views. Walk or cycle along the winding path, stopping regularly to appreciate the views and get those all important Instagrammable snaps.

Siwash Rock (aka Pineapple Rock) at Stanley Park Seawall

Photo by @thomas.bullock

Siwash Rock can be found along the Stanley Park Seawall. Standing somewhere between 15 and 18 metres tall, this iconic rock has been locally recognised for years. The name comes from the Indigenous Squamish people, based on a legend that a man was transformed into this rock. With an interesting story and an ideal location, this unique rock formation makes a great photo, especially as the sun sets over the water behind it. Regardless of the time of day, Siwash Rock is one of the best Instagram spots in Vancouver.

Chinatown Millennium Gate

Photo by @dnomyar.joy

The history and architecture of the Chinatown Millenium Gate lands this significant site on our most Instagrammable Places in Vancouver list. This eye-catching gate consists of 3 tile-roofed arches, ornately designed and painted in the traditional Chinese style. The gate marks the entrance to Chinatown in downtown Vancouver. ‘Remember the past and look forward to the future’ is inscribed in Chinese characters on the Eastern front of the gate.

Vancouver Art Gallery

Photo by @vanniaff

The Vancouver Art Gallery is recognized as one of the most respected and innovative visual arts institutions in Canada. The gallery showcases contemporary visual art from local and international artists. The museum building is a renovated 1906 neo-classical courthouse building, combining history with modern art in the most appealing way. It is not a shock that the Vancouver Art Gallery is on the list of the best Instagram spots in Vancouver.

The Vancouver Block Building

Photo by @summerluomua

The Vancouver Block is a visually striking fifteen-storey building located near the intersection of Georgia and Granville Streets. Boasting an extreme Edwardian Commercial style, the building’s ornate exterior represents the rapid growth in Vancouver’s economy in the early twentieth century. The structure is adorned with terra cotta details and is topped by a large clock tower with neon hands.

Granville Island

Photo by @edvirtua

Granville Island is Vancouver’s premier artistic and cultural hub. Located under the south end of the Granville Street Bridge, the island is home to a huge Public Market with over 50 food stalls, plus some of Canada’s best artists and designers. Granville Island also hosts performing arts and cultural festivals throughout the year, and is popular with locals and visitors alike. 

Photo © Edinei Matos, 2020

Jukebox Print

Inject a splash of colour onto your feed with the Jukebox Print, one of Vancouver’s most Insagrammable places. Jukebox Print is a successful Vancouver-based printing company, that happens to have an awesome office building. Painted in brightly coloured stripes, the building’s façade is an Instagrammer’s dream. It’s located in the Mount Pleasant neighbourhood which is known for being cool and artsy. You can find this awesome photo backdrop on West 4th Avenue.

Christmas Market at Canada Place

Photo by @connieandluna

Everyone loves a Christmas Market! Cute wooden stalls selling all sorts of goodies, and decorations and lights everywhere you look. The market at Canada Place is a massive outdoor market hosting more than 80 vendors selling traditional German food and products from around the world. As well as being super fun, this can be a great setting for festive photos.

Science World

Originally built as as Expo Centre in 1986, this futuristic-looking structure is now home to Vancouver’s Science World. The geodesic dome has become an iconic Vancouver landmark, located on the waterfront at the end of False Creek. You will not want to miss this epic spot and we couldn’t either so e had to add it to our list of the best Instagram spots in Vancouver.

Prospect Point / view over Lions Gate Bridge

Photo by @madm0nk

Prospect Point is Vancouver’s original viewpoint. Located at the Northern tip of Stanley Park, this lookout offers incredible views over the water and Lions Gate Bridge. Take a walk along the trails around the main viewpoint and you’ll be rewarded with plenty of interesting views.

Gastown

Rounding out our list of the most instagrammable places in Vancouver list is he neighbourhood of Gastown. Always a favourite spot whenever we’re in Vancouver, Gastown is overflowing with charm. If you’re a morning person, you can have these beautiful streets to yourself bathing in the perfect golden light.

Looking for great places to eat? Check out our list of the 9 Best Restaurants in Vancouver!

Planning a trip to Vancouver? Check out our comprehensive list of the Best Things to do in Vancouver.

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