You've probably seen this charming Ontario town in Hallmark movies
It's easy to find charming small towns in Ontario, and Port Perry is definitely one that stands out from the pack. It's not only quaint and scenic — it also features some major cinematic charm.
Port Perry is just a 1.5-hour drive from Toronto in Durham Region, and it's sure to be a top spot on your summer road trip bucket list.
You might recognize Port Perry from both the big and small screen, as it's been used time and time again as the backdrop for fictional Hallmark movie towns.
Recent examples include 2018, when Port Perry was transformed into small-town Red Rock, Texas, for the Hallmark film Season for Love. You can see the town's iconic downtown core featured in the movie, including the Piano Inn & Cafe, which turned into Jo & Ray’s BBQ Restaurant.
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In another example, Port Perry stood in for the fictional town of Port Haven in the Hallmark film The Way Home, with the production taking over Queen Street and Water Street.
While well-known for Hallmark productions, the town has also welcomed big-name stars. In 2004, Port Perry served as a small town in Maine for the movie Welcome to Mooseport, starring Ray Romano and Gene Hackman.
It's not hard to see why this town is such an ideal location to film in and to visit. Port Perry sits on Lake Scugog and has earned a reputation as a dreamy beach town where you can swim the day away at places like Kinsmen Beach, located in Palmer Park.
Visitors can swim or tan by the shore, plus there's a grassy area to step aside for some shade or to sit down for a picnic.
Port Perry is also home to Canada's oldest grain elevator, which was built in 1873 on the town's waterfront. It was once used to ship grain via railway and lake transport and was functional until 1979. Today, it's mainly used to house a few small businesses.
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There's plenty to do in the downtown core, though, even if you're not a history buff. The main street is lined with heritage buildings, stores and cafes. You can also dine lakeside at some restaurants, like the Boathouse Grill, which is situated right on the waterfront at the Port Perry Marina.
If you do find yourself at the marina, there are tons of water-based activities to indulge in. Enjoy boating, kayaking and fishing in addition to swimming at the waterfront.
Best of all, Scugog Island is just off the mainland for those who want a full-day adventure.
If you're interested in an island journey, you can either drive the highway crossing Lake Scugog or take a boat rental from Scugog Island Marina to get there by water.
Port Perry has a little something for everyone, whether you need a chill beach day or a range of other escapes from the city grind.
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