photo via The June Motel, Picton
If you’ve driven out of the city in any direction in Ontario, you’ll notice tons of motels scattered along the highways and throughout cottage country. It wasn’t until a driving trip to the west that we realized revamped Ontario motels are quite a staple!
Maybe that’s why the beloved Schitt’s Creek is so famously filmed across Ontario’s small towns.
Over the past few years, the motel game has seriously stepped it up in this province and they make the perfect romantic Ontario getaway. Now, motels come with gorgeous pools and patios, comfy high-end beds and linens, and hotel-level amenities with prime locations.
Here’s our list of Ontario motels you have to book a stay at this summer!
The June Motel: Sauble Beach & Picton
We’ve personally visited both of these spots and fell in love! While they’re two very different vibes, the thoughtful design, amenities and touches are high-quality across both properties.
In Picton, you’ll really get that wine country girls weekend vibe, with wine-themed decor and welcome rosé, how could you not feel instantly inspired to check out all the local wineries nearby?
At Sauble Beach, you’ll feel like you’re at a 1970’s spring break spot (except MUCH better). Chill by the pool, rent games from the lobby, patio-sip at their on-site Heyday’s restaurant, and take a short walk to the actual beach.
Whatever your vibe is, both of these spots give major date night getaway vibes – plus you can put these towards your Ontario Staycation Tax Credit!
Where to find: 11 Sauble Falls Pkwy, Sauble Beach and 12351 Loyalist Pkwy, Picton
Somewhere Inn: Calabogie
This road trip will bring you out East towards Ottawa; easily accessible from both Ottawa and Toronto/the GTA this spot will immerse you in nature while providing you some luxury additions including lawn games and a fire pit area, hammocks, in-suite tub, and a lobby to stock up on craft beer, other local drinks, games, and snacks!
Where to find: 5254 Calabogie Rd, Calabogie
The Lakeside Motel: Wellington
Prince Edward County is known for its sandy beaches and expansive list of wineries, breweries, and cideries in this unique wine country region. Relax after a long day with your date at The Lakeside Motel and be transported to minimalistic luxury.
The view at The Lakeside is something worth a visit in itself (it’s not named Lakeside for no reason, after all). They event host events and celebrations like weddings, family reunions, and summer night film screenings.
They even have glamping options and an on-site pool to swim with the most relaxing view!
Where to find: 349 Wellington Main St, Wellington
Penny’s Motel: Thornbury
This couldn’t be an any better spot for your Après, especially with its close proximity to Blue Mountain Resort & Village. Penny’s Motel is the ultimate date night hub for a Georgian Bay getaway.
The motel is inspired by the area they’re in and vibe of the 70’s, promoting adventure and relaxation. Step into Penny’s and being back all the Ontario road trip and warm summer night feels.
Where to find: 141 King St E, Thornbury
The Beach Motel: Southampton
Step into The Beach Motel and instantly feel like you’re a celebrity being pampered at a five-star spa. It’s steps away from Lake Huron and has all the beach town vibes, with serious luxury amenities and details.
Expect professional and attentive service, comfy robes, and champagne at the balcony bar. This is also a wellness “spahhh” that offers a variety of relaxing massages (and aromatherapy coming soon) from professionally trained and licensed therapists.
This is serious date night goals, and if you’re looking for a spot to celebrate an anniversary, or even local honeymoon… hint hint.
Where to find: 21 Huron Street, Southampton
The Post Office Motel: Kimberley
While this ‘motel’ isn’t a traditional multi-room one-level layout, this guest suite named The Post Office Motel & Spa is seriously so gorgeous for a romantic and intimate date night getaway.
Where to find: Near Beaver Valley Rd. and Centre St., Kimberley
Kent Motel: Niagara-on-the-Lake
This Motor Inn has a modern, and cute twist. Located in the heart of Ontario’s most famous wine country (and an extremely romantic town in general), the Kent Motel is the perfect place to cozy up after a sunny day of wine tasting and biking through vineyards.
“Recent upgrades feature clean, crisp bathrooms, gas fireplaces, and up-cycled, vintage decor as part of a broader motel revival across North America. Built on the site of one of Canada’s first railway stations and overlooking the Niagara River, the Motel’s 2-story veranda, and east-facing balconies offer the perfect vantage point to unwind and enjoy all the natural, cultural, and gastronomic wonders of the Niagara region.”
The Kent Motel
Where to find: 19 Front St S, Niagara-on-the-Lake
The Juniper Inn: St. Catharines
This boutique hotel has six themed rooms that are modern and comfortable, perfect for a girl’s weekend or romantic date night getaway. While the Juniper Inn is close to Niagara’s wine country, it’s also in Port Dalhousie which is a cute area by the docks with local restaurants, shops, and more!
Where to find: 38 Lakeport Rd, St. Catharines
Find things to do all across Ontario (or even Canada) during your motel road trip here!
Make sure to bring the datenight game along to keep the conversation flowing and growing.
