Central Ontario, Administrative region in Ontario, Canada.
Central Ontario is an administrative region stretching between Georgian Bay and Lake Ontario, encompassing farmland, forests, and numerous waterways. The area includes several counties and municipalities such as Peterborough, Kawartha Lakes, and Haliburton County that are connected by major highways.
The region was originally home to Anishinaabe and Haudenosaunee peoples before European settlers arrived in the 17th century. Contact between these cultures led to major changes in trade patterns, settlement, and land use over the following centuries.
Small towns and villages throughout the region host museums, markets, and seasonal celebrations that show local heritage and traditions. Visitors can explore craft fairs, historic exhibits, and community events that reflect how people here connect with their past.
The region is well served by highways and secondary roads that connect it to neighboring areas and make visiting different towns straightforward. Urban centers have public transportation options, while rural areas generally require a car for independent exploration.
The Trent-Severn Waterway system connects Georgian Bay to Lake Ontario through a network of channels and locks, some dating from the mid-1800s. This historic transportation corridor remains active for recreation and freight today, shaping how visitors experience the landscape and waterways.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
