Things To Do
in Paris
Paris, Ontario is a picturesque small town on the Grand River, about an hour west of Toronto. Its brick storefronts, tree-lined streets, and riverside promenade give it classic Ontario charm. Visitors enjoy strolling the historic downtown, sampling bakery treats, and exploring easy-to-access trails along the river.
It offers a tranquil escape with heritage architecture, artisanal shops, and outdoor scenery just steps from every corner.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a leisurely stroll through the charming streets of downtown Paris, admiring the well-preserved architecture of historic buildings. Grab a coffee and a fresh pastry from a local café to fuel your exploration. Don’t miss the iconic Paris Ontario courthouse, a beautiful example of Renaissance Revival architecture.
Visit the Paris Museum and Historical Society to learn about the rich heritage of the region through engaging exhibits. Take a scenic walk along the Grand River, where you can enjoy the natural beauty and perhaps spot some local wildlife. Stop by one of the local shops for unique crafts and souvenirs that reflect the local culture.
Choose a cozy restaurant along the river for dinner, where you can indulge in local cuisine while enjoying the picturesque sunset. After dinner, take a leisurely walk along the riverbank, soaking in the tranquility of the evening. If you're up for it, find a local pub for some live music to cap off your night.
Begin your day with a hearty breakfast at a local diner before heading to the Grand River for some outdoor fun. Rent a kayak or canoe and paddle along the calm waters, taking in the stunning natural scenery surrounding you. Keep an eye out for birds and other wildlife as you navigate the gentle currents.
After your morning on the water, enjoy a packed lunch by the riverside, perhaps at one of the beautiful picnic spots along the shore. The afternoon is perfect for hiking on one of the nearby trails, where you can immerse yourself in the lush greenery and fresh air. Look for interpretive signs that provide insight into the local flora and fauna as you explore.
As the sun begins to set, return to town and treat yourself to a delightful dinner at a restaurant specializing in farm-to-table cuisine. Spend the evening wandering through Paris’ vibrant main street, where you can pop into charming shops and boutiques. End the night with a sweet dessert at a local bakery, enjoying the cozy atmosphere.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | CAD 12-18 |
| ☕Coffee | CAD 2-5 |
| 🚌Public transit ticket (single ride) | CAD 3-4.50 |
| 🛍️Basic groceries (weekly) | CAD 80-120 |
| 🏨Hotel / motel nightly | CAD 100-150 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Charming small-town atmosphere
- Beautiful river setting and nature nearby
- Walkable downtown with shops and cafés
- Friendly locals
- Limited nightlife compared to big cities
- Smaller selection of international dining
- Can be quiet in off-season
Places to Visit in Paris
Visit one of these nice places.
Open banks with willow-lined shores and wide river horizons, ideal at sunrise or golden hour.
Brick storefronts, lamp posts, and reflections in shop windows for classic small-town photography.
Picturesque bridges over the Grand River and tree-lined trails along the water.
Food in Paris
Paris Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A classic Canadian dessert served in local bakeries; buttery pastry with a sweet filling.
Must-Try!
Seasonal specialty found at farmers markets or local eateries, great with mustard and a cold cider.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal market offering fresh produce, baked goods, and ready-to-eat bites in the downtown area.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A friendly hello and please/thank you go a long way; locals are welcoming.
English is primary but some French signage; a few basic French phrases can be appreciated.
Keep noise down in residential streets and respect private property.
Safety
Tipping in Paris
Ensure a smooth experience
In Canada, tips of 15-20% at table service; round up for small orders or coffee; tip bar staff if you liked the service.
Credit/debit cards widely accepted; contactless payments common; some cash accepted; ATMs available.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm days with comfortable evenings; occasional thunderstorms; perfect for river walks and outdoor dining.
Golden light and vivid foliage along Main Street and river paths; frequent fall events and harvest markets.
Cold with possible snowfall; cozy cafés, indoor markets, and scenic snow-covered streets.
Mild temperatures and blooming trees; great for outdoor photography and markets; showery days possible.
Paris at Night
Hiking in Paris
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Lush forested trails along watercourses with scenic overlooks.
Long-distance path with river views and connecting loops near Paris.
Short, family-friendly hikes suitable for all ages in nearby parks.
Airports
How to reach Paris by plane.
Approx. 60-90 minutes by car; serves domestic and some international flights; easy access to Paris via Highway 8 and regional roads.
About 60-90 minutes by car; convenient for domestic and international travel; car rental available.
Major international gateway about 1.5-2 hours by car or train; more flight options.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Many residents are families attracted to the town’s safety, schools, and green spaces.
Quiet community with accessible amenities and healthcare nearby.
Some commute to Brantford or Waterloo Region for work and enjoy the town’s pace.
Tourists and weekend travelers attracted by the river and shops.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Traditional winter sport with local rinks and pickup games.
Popular in Ontario with community leagues and youth programs.
Community leagues and casual play on local fields.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Paris.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many cafés offer veggie quiches, salads, soups, and grain bowls; ask for meatless options or customization.