Celebrity-inspired getaways in Ontario

Algonquin Park and Muskoka

Various Hollywood celebrities and famous people such as Harry Styles, Steven Spielberg, Jim Carrey, Cindy Crawford and the Beckhams have been spotted visiting Muskoka and neighbouring Algonquin Park, popular destinations for unwinding amid idyllic scenery, lush wilderness and exciting outdoor activities.

Explore beautiful landscapes

Surrounded by cottages, Lake Joseph in Seguin Township is a hotspot for celebrities and billionaires, many of whom own large properties along the 91-kilometre shoreline of this beautiful lake. Lake Joseph is also known for its great golfing club, The Lake Joseph Club, which features granite crags and unique topography.

A top summer location for celebrities (including Tom Hanks) as well as thousands of travellers every year, Lake Muskoka is the largest lake in the Muskoka area. Its clear waters can be accessed from public launches in Gravenhurst, Milford Bay, Bracebridge and Bala, and visitors can take a historic cruise around the lake aboard the RMS Segwun and Wenonah II. Fishing and boating are the lake’s most popular activities. The area also boasts quality golf courses, public parks and cultural centres. Visit during late fall and winter if you want a more secluded vacation.

Named “Millionaire’s Row” for its association with celebrity vacation homes, Lake Rosseau is connected to both Lake Joseph and Lake Muskoka through rushing rivers and rocky shorelines. This lake boasts a rich history, being the centuries-old home to numerous Indigenous communities and the location of lakeside cottages dating back to the 19th century. It’s a popular spot for boating, fishing and other water sports. Actors like Martin Short, Goldie Hawn and Kurt Russell are known to own cottages here.

Goshulak Island is one of Simu Liu’s favourite getaway spots, according to one of Canada’s leading news publications, CTV News. This picturesque island, named after the family that lives there, is surrounded by blue waters perfect for lake activities like water skiing, boating and swimming.

Adventure activities abound

Many celebrities visit Muskoka and Algonquin to enjoy the diversity of experiences on offer including camping, kayaking, biking or fishing.

Beginner and experienced hikers will love walking along the Lions Lookout Trail. Make your way to the trail’s signature lookout structure, a red-roofed gazebo that overlooks the majestic fall colours of the forest.

With Algonquin Outfitters or Algonquin Adventure Tours, you’ll enjoy a guided trip immersed in the wildlife of Algonquin Park.

Have fun climbing, swinging and zipping through the forest canopy with Treetop Trekking in Huntsville. Multiple activities for different age groups, such as Aerial Game Trek, Night Trek and team building programs, are available.

Walk through history at the Muskoka Steamships & Discovery Centre, where you can visit the 130-year-old RMS Segwun, North America’s oldest operating mail steamship, and the Wenonah II, a modern recreation of a traditional steamship. Both ships offer cruise trips around all three Muskoka lakes, boasting three decks and a fully licensed outside patio.

Get any outdoor equipment you need from Liv Outside in Bracebridge. This comprehensive shop specializes in gear, rentals and tours for biking, paddling, camping and climbing.

Experience a private, overnight vacation in the great outdoors with Voyageur Quest. Recognized as a “Best in Class Signature Experience” in Canada, this retreat offers canoeing, camping, wildlife viewing and more in the heart of Algonquin Park. It’s available year-round, with a variety of adventure options and trips to fit all ages and activity levels.

Taste local flavours

Dine like a celebrity by sampling a wide range of delicious dishes at local and high-end restaurants across Muskoka and Algonquin Park.

Enjoy a variety of culinary offerings at JW Marriott The Rosseau, a luxury resort with a wealth of great dining options. Sample delicious Italian fare at the Teca Restaurant and savour certified Angus beef at the Muskoka Chophouse. In the winter, dine outdoors in a cozy “ice cave”—a transparent dome overlooking Lake Rosseau and gently lit by strings of fairy lights.

Choose between a casual bite or a refined three-course meal at Tall Trees Muskoka. Located in Huntsville, this quaint restaurant serves homestyle foods like salads, flatbreads, rice and more. Pair your dish with one of their featured cocktails.

Open since 1939, Sherwood Inn in Port Carling is one of Muskoka’s premier dining restaurants. With unique dishes cooked with locally sourced ingredients and an extensive wine cellar that has won numerous Wine Spectator Awards of Excellence, you’ll enjoy a sophisticated dining experience.

Known for its eclectic menu, 3 Guys And A Stove in Huntsville features a fusion of different culinary styles and influences. You’ll find Georgian Bay whitefish, Mediterranean rice, Moroccan meatballs, seasonal gelato and other creative dishes at this popular dining establishment.

Find the perfect stay

Melt away the stresses of everyday with a stay at one of the many off the beaten path resorts and lodges in Muskoka and Algonquin.

Hear the howling of wolves and the cries of the loons at Killarney Lodge in Algonquin Park. Built and family-owned since 1935, this wilderness lodge is surrounded by clear waters and incredible greenery. Walk along hiking trails, paddle around the lake and participate in activities at the Art Centre.

Located within Algonquin Park, Arowhon Pines is an all-inclusive resort open from the beginning of June to mid-October. Relax in luxury log cabins, dine on scrumptious food served in the heritage lakeside dining room and stay active with day trips of canoeing and kayaking along a chain of lakes.

You can also stay in the wilds of Algonquin Park at Bartlett Lodge, where you’ll be close enough to hear the sounds of nearby wildlife and rustling trees. Learn about the unique geology and history of the area’s 2,400 lakes, go canoeing through the blue waters and hike along the backwoods trails on a guided tour. When you return, enjoy local fine dining under the stars.

For a trendy stay in a gorgeous natural environment, JW Marriott The Rosseau Muskoka Resort & Spa is one of the top hotels in Muskoka. It offers sweeping views of Lake Rosseau, stylish hotel rooms, a year-round swimming pool and plenty of award-winning restaurant options. Take advantage of access to sand beaches, stand-up paddle boarding, mountain biking, snowshoeing and more. Later, sample drinks at the one-of-a-kind Icebar, decorated with hundreds of crystal head vodka bottles.

Windermere House is a Victorian-style hotel built in 1870 as a boarding house. Overlooking Lake Rosseau, this stately accommodation features suites with balconies and verandas with stunning lake views. In 1996, the original structure was destroyed in a fire during the filming of Geena Davis’ film “The Long Kiss Goodnight,” but an exact replica was rebuilt the next year.

With locations at top destinations like Lake Muskoka, Lake Joseph and Old Woman Island, Jayne’s Cottages is known for its striking chalets, villas and cottages for rent in Ontario. Bask in world-class service and local recommendations for you to enjoy your stay to the fullest.

Toronto

Often referred to as “Hollywood North,” Toronto is a popular hangout for various celebrities and entertainment industry folks. With its thriving film scene, diverse culinary offerings and stunning landmarks, many celebrities are drawn to this city.

Discover unforgettable entertainment

Catch the latest Hollywood and indie movies at TIFF, the Toronto International Film Festival. This popular events attracts movie stars to the city for 11 days every September.

At Scotiabank Arena, Budweiser Stage and Mirvish theatres, you can watch captivating shows and events in a heart-pounding atmosphere.

Visit some of the top attractions across the city with the Toronto CityPASS. You’ll save on admission to the CN Tower, plus your choice of four other popular spots like Casa Loma, Royal Ontario Museum, Toronto Zoo and Ontario Science Centre.

For more things to do in Toronto, check out Unique art galleries and museums, Your Toronto neighbourhood shopping guide and Cool things to do in Toronto this winter.

Drake’s top Toronto hotspots

An internationally recognized rapper, singer and songwriter, Drake is a Toronto-born artist who has played a significant role in putting Toronto (or as he calls it, the “6ix”) on the map in the global entertainment and music industries. According to Vogue, these are some of Drake’s favourite places in Toronto.

Inside Wellington Place, you’ll find SPIN, a rec room-themed club and bar that was founded in 2009 by actor Susan Sarandon. With a dozen ping-pong tables, players can take part in casual games with friends or join a hosted tournament.

Owned by award-winning chef Daniel Boulud, d|Bar is a street-level lobby bar that can be found inside the Four Seasons Hotel in the fashionable Yorkville area. It’s the perfect place to sample signature cocktails or snack on casual fare in a group.

416 Snack Bar is another great spot to experience. Situated in Toronto’s Queen West neighbourhood and offers a diverse selection of tasty dishes like Jamaican beef patty, Margherita pizza, oysters and more in a vibrant, casual atmosphere.

Shawn Mendes’ favourite hidden gems

Born and raised near Toronto, Shawn Mendes has been frequently spotted in locales across the city. These are some of his preferred hangouts, according to Narcity.

Sip on caffeinated beverages in the cozy Forget-Me-Not Coffee shop. This Korean-inspired cafe features matcha lattes, black sesame lattes, yuzu tea and seasonal drinks. Pair your drink with a scrumptious baked good and soak in the cafe’s homey atmosphere.

The Portland location of Jimmy’s Coffee takes coffee beans and locally roasts them in the traditional Italian style to create smooth, delicious drinks. Enjoy your cup of hot coffee, complete with Jimmy’s signature yellow lid, in the cafe’s rustic interior.

Stroll through Kensington Market, Toronto’s colourful neighbourhood in the heart of downtown Toronto. With a long history dating back to the 19th century, this culturally diverse market is known for its bohemian vibe, vivid street art and eclectic mix of quaint shops and international restaurants.

Recharge in style

Toronto offers a selection of luxurious accommodations for the rich and famous, from movie stars on location for filming, to members of the British royal family on vacation. You can also stay in these opulent hotels, many of which offer exclusive guest perks for you and your favourite celebrities.

Discover contemporary art collections and exhibitions inside the Drake Hotel, a trendy boutique hotel owned by Drake Hotel Properties (not Drake the singer!). Located close to the Art Gallery of Ontario, art lovers will enjoy the funky, individually designed rooms decorated with modern art pieces.

Located directly across from Union Station, the Fairmont Royal York displays hand-painted ceilings, majestic pillars and breathtaking cityscape views.  You’ll find four restaurants and bars, plus a lounge that serves afternoon tea. Members of the royal family have previously stayed at this upscale accommodation.

Enjoy a stylish stay at Shangri-La Toronto, an Asian-inspired contemporary hotel with comfortable suites, separate living rooms, marble bathrooms and designer toiletries. Visit the cocktail bar and lobby lounge offering an extensive tea menu and live entertainment.

The Ritz-Carlton is a five-star hotel in Toronto’s financial district, providing luxury suites with heated floors, minibars and soaking tubs. Dine at the on-site Italian restaurant with a cheese cave and posh bar.

One of the top hotels in trendy Yorkville, Four Seasons Hotel Toronto has sophisticated rooms with floor-to-ceiling windows showcasing stunning views of downtown Toronto. Grab a cocktail from the vibrant bar and drink on the outdoor terrace.

Experience a relaxing stay at the Hazelton Hotel. Its trendy rooms feature coffee makers, minibars and dressing rooms. Make sure you stop by the hotel’s French-Italian restaurant, operated by executive chef Darby Piquette.

Located close to attractions like the Royal Ontario Museum and CN Tower, Park Hyatt Toronto boasts polished rooms with marble bathrooms and work areas. Famous writers such as Margaret Atwood, June Callwood and Mordecai Richler used to frequent this hotel’s rooftop bar, which was renamed the Writers Room to pay homage to the bar’s literary history. Witness the breathtaking Toronto skyline as you sip on crafted cocktails.

Niagara Region

The awe-inspiring beauty of the famous Niagara Falls has made this place a must-visit destination for famous movie stars like Marilyn Monroe, Ginger Rogers and Christopher Reeve, as well as celebrities like Kate Hudson, Kate Moss, Brad Pitt, Kelly Ripa, Dylan Sprouse and Barbara Palvin. Beyond the iconic waterfalls, Niagara Falls offers a variety of high-end dining experiences, world-class accommodations, and the chance to explore the quaint surrounding towns and vineyards.

Discover world-class wonders

A visit to Niagara Falls isn’t complete without exploring the city’s best attractions.

Embark on a 20-minute boat tour and witness incredible views of the Niagara Gorge, American Falls and Bridal Veil Falls with Niagara City Cruises.

Wine tours and wine tastings are available at the many wineries in this area. Some of the most known include:  Peller Estates Winery, Two Sisters Vineyards and Wayne Gretzky Estates, which is owned and operated by one of the greatest hockey players in history, Wayne Gretzky. Enjoy a stroll around the majestic vineyards, then try unique foods and award-winning wines on tours led by experienced wine connoisseurs.

Visit landmarks like Niagara Parks Power Station, Canada’s first major power plant, Brock’s Monument, the final resting site of Major General Sir Isaac Brock, and Laura Secord Homestead, home of the famous Canadian heroine, Laura Secord.

Dine at delectable restaurants

Like the stars, you can eat high-quality meals at these incredible local restaurants.

One of Canada’s top fine dining restaurants, AG Inspired Cuisine offers quality European dishes like venison bolognaise, duck confit, AAA flank steak and honey mustard-crusted salmon. Finish your meal with a slice of chocolate hazelnut cheesecake.

Enjoy the cooking of Niagara-born chef John Casciato at Prime Steakhouse Niagara Falls. In this contemporary steakhouse, you’ll dine on premium steaks, fresh seafood and local wines while overlooking stunning views of Niagara Falls.

Relax in luxurious lodgings

Wake up feeling like a celebrity after spending the night at the most striking hotels and inns in Niagara.

A classic hotel with quality amenities, Crowne Plaza Niagara Falls-Fallsview has hosted numerous celebrities and royalty throughout history, including Walt Disney, Shirley Temple, Princess Margaret, Queen Elizabeth and Marilyn Monroe.

Discover breathtaking views of Niagara Falls from your guest room at Sheraton Fallsview. One of the best hotels in Niagara Falls, this hotel has an indoor walkway to Casino Niagara and Fallsview Indoor Waterpark, plus easy access to Niagara’s iconic boat ride and Niagara Parks.

Dating back to 1809, Riverbend Inn & Vineyard is a Georgian mansion nestled in almost seven hectares of picturesque vineyards and manicured lawns. Situated in Niagara-on-the-Lake, it boasts 21 comfortable rooms and a gourmet restaurant.

Also located in Niagara-on-the-Lake, 124 on Queen Hotel and Spa is known for its award-winning Spa at Q, a destination spa and hydrotherapy circuit. Enjoy lavish hotel accommodations and an acclaimed on-site restaurant during your restful vacation.

Explore other great NOTL (Niagara-on-the-Lake) Vintage Hotels such as Prince of Wales Hotel, Queen’s Landing Hotel and Pillar and Post Hotel & Spa.