150+ Fun & Interesting Facts About Ontario

It’s no secret that Ontario is a breathtaking outdoor playground of surreal natural landscapes and culturally diverse cosmopolitan cities. However, to truly get to know the Heartland Province is to explore beyond these popularized tourist images to fully immerse in the vibrant history, thriving industry, and abundant biodiversity of this Canadian province.

Within this list of fun Ontario facts and statistics, we’ll uncover lesser-known truths about the province’s past, present, and future—spanning everything from the Canadian Shield and Lake Ontario to Statistics Canada data and Ontario’s official symbols. Don’t forget to check out my complete Ontario travel guide for more information as you plan your trip to our amazing province.

• Content
• Quick Facts About Ontario
• Ontario’s Official Symbols
• Ontario By The Numbers
• Ontario Tourism Facts
• Geographical Facts About Ontario
• Historical Facts About Ontario
• Ontario Cultural Heritage Facts
• Facts About Ontario Landmarks
• Ontario Facts About Nature & National Parks
• Interesting Facts About The Natural Resources Of Ontario
• Fun Facts About Ontario Cities & Towns
• Facts About Ontario Population
• Facts About Ontario Industry
• Facts About Ontario Sports
• Ontario Entertainment Facts

Quick Facts About Ontario

1. The name Ontario comes from the Iroquois word “Kanadario,” which means “sparkling water,” reflecting the province’s many lakes and rivers—including Lake Ontario, Lake Huron, and the Ottawa River.
2. Ontario is home to over 400 species of birds, making it a paradise for birdwatchers and ornithologists. Areas like Georgian Bay and North Bay offer exceptional birdwatching opportunities.
3. The Great Lakes, which border Ontario, contain about one fifth of the world’s fresh water, supporting unique aquatic ecosystems and biodiversity.
4. Ontario’s forests span approximately 71 million hectares—more than half of the province’s land area—dominated by the majestic eastern white pine, Ontario’s official tree.
5. The province’s wetlands and freshwater lakes support a robust commercial and recreational fishing industry. Georgian Bay, Lake Ontario, and the inland lakes of Northeastern Ontario and Southwestern Ontario are prized fishing regions, with species like trout, salmon, bass, and walleye.
6. The Niagara Escarpment, a UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve, is part of the ancient Canadian Shield and home to rare plant species and scenic hiking trails.
7. Ontario is a leader in renewable energy, with about 90% of its electricity generated from non-emitting sources such as hydro, nuclear, wind, and solar power.
8. The province also has extensive deposits of aggregate materials like sand, gravel, and crushed stone—resources essential for infrastructure and development across Central Canada, particularly in rapidly growing areas like the Golden Horseshoe.
9. Ontario’s conservation efforts aim to preserve natural heritage through protected areas, national parks, and habitat initiatives—many of which are located in Western Ontario and Northeastern Ontario near Hudson Bay.

Ontario’s Official Symbols

10. Ontario’s flag, adopted in 1965, displays the province’s coat of arms on a red field and symbolizes Ontario’s heritage and ties to the British Commonwealth—dating back to the British North America Act.
11. Ontario’s official motto, “Ut Incepit Fidelis Sic Permanet” (“Loyal she began, loyal she remains”), reflects the loyalty of early settlers like the United Empire Loyalists and Ontario’s historic role within Canada West.
12. Ontario’s official flower is the trillium (Trillium grandiflorum), which blooms across forest floors each spring, particularly in the woodlands of Southwestern Ontario.
13. Ontario’s official gemstone is amethyst, with the finest deposits found in Northwestern Ontario around Thunder Bay.
14. The common loon, Ontario’s official bird, is often heard calling across lakes like Lake Huron and Georgian Bay.
15. The towering eastern white pine was vital to Ontario’s early forestry industry and remains a celebrated provincial symbol today.
16. Ontario’s coat of arms, granted by King Edward VII in 1868 and updated in 1987, features a lion, unicorn, maple leaves, and a shield representing the province’s diverse identity.
17. The lake trout, Ontario’s official fish, is native to cold waters in the Canadian Shield and prized in angling hotspots such as North Bay.
18. The monarch butterfly, Ontario’s official insect, highlights the province’s role in the remarkable migration path from Hudson Bay to Mexico.
19. Ontario’s official mammal, the eastern white-tailed deer, can be found throughout the province—from Georgian Bay woodlands to Southwestern Ontario meadows.

Ontario By The Numbers

20. Ontario has over 330 provincial parks and conservation reserves, covering more than 9 million hectares of land, which is about 10% of the province’s total land area. Many of these protected areas are located within the vast Canadian Shield and along important waterways such as the Saint Lawrence River and Ottawa River.
21. Toronto, Ontario’s capital city, has a growing network of bike lanes and trails totalling over 550 kilometres, encouraging eco-friendly transportation and recreation. It is also recognized as Canada’s largest city and frequently ranks among the world’s most multicultural cities.
22. Ontario is home to 22 public universities and 24 colleges, serving over 700,000 full-time students annually, making it the educational hub of Canada. Several institutions offer bilingual programs in recognition of Ontario’s official language policies that support both English and French education, including separate Catholic schools.
23. Ontario’s technology sector is booming, with over 20,000 tech firms employing more than 300,000 people, particularly in cities like Toronto, Waterloo, and Ottawa. According to Statistics Canada, Ontario accounts for a substantial share of Canada’s innovation economy.
24. Ontario is a major player in Canada’s wine industry, with over 180 wineries, primarily located in the Niagara Peninsula, Prince Edward County, and the Lake Erie North Shore region of Southwestern Ontario.
25. Ontario has nearly 250,000 licensed anglers and over 200,000 licensed hunters, reflecting the province’s rich tradition of outdoor sports and wildlife conservation. Northern destinations such as North Bay offer abundant opportunities for fishing, hunting, and outdoor adventure.
26. Ontario boasts over 1,000 public library branches, making it easy for residents to access books, digital resources, and community programs across regions from Western Ontario to Northeastern Ontario.
27. The Toronto Transit Commission (TTC) is one of the largest public transit systems in North America, providing over 530 million rides annually on its buses, streetcars, and subways.
28. In Toronto, over 140 languages and dialects are spoken, reflecting the city’s immense cultural diversity and reinforcing its status as a multicultural city.
29. Ontario is a leader in renewable energy in Canada, with about 90% of its electricity generated from non-emitting sources, including hydro, nuclear, wind, and solar power—an achievement that aligns with broader efforts by Canada’s federal government to reduce emissions nationwide.

Ontario Tourism Facts

30. Ontario welcomes over 150 million visitors each year, making it one of the most popular travel destinations in Canada. Travellers often arrive via the United States border or explore eastern routes from Nova Scotia or British Columbia.
31. Tourism in Ontario contributes approximately $34 billion annually to the province’s economy, supporting a wide range of businesses and services. According to Statistics Canada, this sector plays a crucial role in economic development across both urban centres and smaller communities.
32. The tourism industry in Ontario employs over 400,000 people, making it a significant source of jobs across various sectors, including hospitality, transportation, and entertainment.
33. Ontario attracts over 10 million international visitors annually, with the majority coming from the United States, followed by the United Kingdom, China, and Germany. International tourists often explore destinations like Georgian Bay, the Thousand Islands along the Saint Lawrence River, and the world’s largest freshwater island—Manitoulin Island.
34. Canadians account for a significant portion of Ontario’s tourism, with millions of domestic travellers visiting for leisure, business, and family trips each year. Popular stops include North Bay in the north and the Golden Horseshoe in Southern Ontario.
35. Niagara Falls is the most visited attraction in Ontario, drawing around 14 million tourists annually. The surrounding Niagara region also benefits from being part of the historical Canada West, which developed significantly after the British North America Act.
36. Toronto is the most visited city in Ontario, attracting over 27 million visitors each year, who come for its diverse cultural offerings, entertainment, and events. It’s not only Ontario’s capital city but also considered one of the most multicultural cities in the world.
37. Summer is the peak travel season in Ontario, with July and August being the busiest months due to school vacations and favourable weather.
38. Ontario offers a wide range of accommodation options, with over 3,000 hotels and motels providing more than 120,000 rooms to visitors across the province—from Southwestern Ontario to the shores of Hudson Bay.
39. Visitors to Ontario spend an estimated $30 billion annually, with expenditures on accommodation, food and beverages, transportation, entertainment, and retail shopping—stimulating local economies throughout Central Canada and beyond.

Geographical Facts About Ontario

40. Ontario covers a total land area of 894,639 sq km and a total area of over one million sq km, including its vast network of lakes and rivers. It is the second largest province in Canada, second only to neighbouring Quebec.
41. To put its scale into perspective, Ontario is larger than France and Spain combined, making it a province of both vast distances and incredible geographic diversity.
42. Ontario is home to more than 250,000 lakes that make up over 177,000 sq ft. of water—containing about one fifth of the world’s supply of freshwater. Whether you’re paddling across a quiet bay or cruising on a houseboat, there’s no shortage of beautiful lakes to explore.
43. Ontario boasts a combined 4,175 km of freshwater and saltwater shoreline. Much of this shoreline lies along major bodies like Lake Ontario, Lake Huron, and Lake Superior, with coastal elevations near sea level, especially in southern and southeastern regions.
44. Found along these shores are 17 of Canada’s official Blue Flag beaches, meeting strict environmental and water quality standards.
45. The province is home to both the world’s largest freshwater beach (Wasaga Beach) and the second largest (Sauble Beach), both located in the southern region near Georgian Bay.
46. Point Pelee National Park and Pelee Island, located in the southern portion of the province, mark the southernmost point of mainland Canada. These areas lie within the eastern time zone and experience some of the warmest weather in the country.
47. Ontario borders five U.S. states—Minnesota, Michigan, Ohio, Pennsylvania, and New York—as well as two Canadian provinces: Manitoba and Quebec. These international and interprovincial boundaries support tourism, trade, and cultural exchange.
48. The province itself is divided into three main geographic regions: Northern Ontario, Central Ontario, and Southern Ontario—each offering distinct terrain, ecosystems, and lifestyles.

Historical Facts About Ontario

49. Ontario’s Indigenous history spans millennia, with various First Nations communities thriving across the region long before European contact. Many Indigenous nations continue to shape the province’s future, with their histories recognized as central to Ontario’s identity.
50. French explorers, including Samuel de Champlain, ventured into Ontario in the 17th century, establishing early settlements and trade routes. One such settlement, French River, still exists today as a popular recreational area surrounded by natural beauty.
51. After the American Revolutionary War, Ontario (then Upper Canada) became a British colony in 1791, attracting settlers loyal to the British Crown. Many of these were United Empire Loyalists, who sought refuge in what was then part of British North America.
52. Ontario was a significant battleground during the War of 1812, with key conflicts fought on its soil, influencing the outcome of the war and shaping Canadian identity. Sites like Queenston Heights and Fort York commemorate this pivotal era.
53. Ontario served as a crucial terminus on the Underground Railroad, offering freedom to enslaved individuals fleeing the United States. This legacy of resistance and refuge is honoured in museums and cultural centres across the province.
54. Ontario played a pivotal role in Canadian Confederation in 1867, joining as one of the original provinces of Canada and contributing to the nation’s political and economic landscape. Queen Victoria signed the British North America Act, which formalized this union.
55. In the mid-19th century, Ontario experienced its own gold rush, attracting prospectors and leading to the development of mining towns and industries. This period also revealed Ontario’s mineral wealth, which remains a critical part of its resource economy.
56. Ontario’s canal systems, like the Welland and Rideau Canals, were engineering marvels of the 19th century, facilitating transportation and trade between the Great Lakes, the Saint Lawrence River, and other key waterways.
57. Ontario has a rich history of labour activism, with movements advocating for workers’ rights, fair wages, and better working conditions throughout its industrial development.
58. Ontario became a major centre for the automotive industry in the early 20th century, with cities like Windsor and Oshawa hosting manufacturing plants for companies like Ford, General Motors, and Chrysler—industries that continue to drive the province’s thriving economy.

Ontario Cultural Heritage Facts

59. Ontario is home to numerous Indigenous communities, including the Anishinaabe, Haudenosaunee, and Métis peoples, each with their own rich cultural traditions and languages. These Aboriginal peoples contribute significantly to the province’s social and artistic fabric.
60. The province has a diverse, multicultural population, with immigrants from around the world contributing to its vibrant cultural communities. This diversity helps define Ontario as one of the most welcoming and globally connected regions in Canada.
61. Ontario’s historic sites and landmarks, such as Fort York in Toronto and Upper Canada Village near Morrisburg, offer insights into the province’s colonial history and early settlement, including its role in the transformation of Lower Canada.
62. The Royal Ontario Museum (ROM) in Toronto houses one of the world’s most extensive collections of cultural artifacts, including exhibits on Indigenous cultures, ancient civilizations, and contemporary art. Located in Ontario’s capital city, it attracts millions of visitors each year.
63. Ontario’s cultural institutions, including theatres, art galleries, and music venues, host a wide range of performances and events that celebrate the province’s artistic heritage. Many artists working in Ontario specialize in the applied arts, blending tradition with innovation.
64. The Ontario Heritage Trust preserves and promotes the province’s cultural heritage through initiatives such as heritage conservation, education programs, and heritage site designations. This work ensures that future generations can connect with Ontario’s past.
65. Ontario’s culinary scene reflects its multicultural influences, with diverse cuisines from around the world available in cities like Toronto, Ottawa, and Hamilton. This is particularly evident in areas recognized as regional municipalities, which foster unique cultural identities.
66. Festivals and events celebrating Ontario’s cultural diversity—such as Caribana in Toronto, the Ottawa Tulip Festival, and the Stratford Shakespeare Festival—are among the province’s most popular tourist attractions and draw visitors from across the globe.
67. Ontario’s literary heritage includes authors like Margaret Atwood, Alice Munro, and Michael Ondaatje, whose works have earned international acclaim and helped shape Canadian literature.
68. The province’s cultural landscapes, including heritage neighbourhoods, urban murals, and public art installations, contribute to its sense of identity and provide spaces for community expression and engagement—especially in the southern portion of the province, where much of the population is concentrated.

Facts About Ontario Landmarks

69. The CN Tower in Toronto held the title of the world’s tallest freestanding structure for 32 years until 2007. Located in Canada’s largest city, the tower remains one of Ontario’s most popular tourist attractions and an architectural marvel that draws millions of visitors each year.
70. The Royal Ontario Museum (ROM) in Toronto is one of the largest museums in North America and houses over six million items. It’s a major cultural institution in Ontario’s capital city, showcasing natural history, world cultures, and Indigenous heritage.
71. Ontario hosts over 125 professional theatre companies, including world-renowned festivals such as the Stratford Festival and the Shaw Festival in Niagara-on-the-Lake—both contributing to the province’s thriving economy through tourism and the arts.
72. The Thousand Islands, located in the Saint Lawrence River, is home to over 1,800 islands and is considered a beautiful lake region that straddles the U.S. and Canadian border.
73. The Rideau Canal in Ottawa is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is the oldest continuously operated canal system in North America. Ottawa, the national capital, also sits on the banks of the Ottawa River, which has played a central role in trade and settlement throughout Canadian history.
74. Niagara Falls, straddling the United States border, is one of the most famous natural landmarks in the world. The surrounding region also includes the Blue Mountains, a favourite destination for hiking and skiing.
75. Ontario has more than 270 National Historic Sites, recognizing locations of historical significance in areas such as culture, military history, and Indigenous heritage—including four UNESCO World Heritage Sites, such as the Rideau Canal and the Niagara Escarpment.
76. Ontario is home to over 600 museums, ranging from large institutions like the ROM and the Art Gallery of Ontario to smaller specialized museums like the Canadian Canoe Museum in Peterborough. These institutions highlight everything from the applied arts to natural sciences.
77. Casa Loma in Toronto is a historic castle and museum that offers guided tours and special events. Located in the heart of Central Canada, it offers a glimpse into Toronto’s Edwardian past and the architectural ambition of early 20th-century Ontario.
78. Ontario boasts over 330 provincial parks, covering approximately 8% of the province’s landmass. Some parks, like Middle Island—Canada’s southernmost point—are located at surprisingly low sea level despite Ontario’s reputation for highland terrain.

Ontario Facts About Nature & National Parks

79. Algonquin Provincial Park, located in Central Ontario, is one of the oldest and largest provincial parks in Canada, offering pristine wilderness and abundant wildlife. It is part of the sprawling Canadian Shield, known for its rugged rock formations and dense forests.
80. Ontario is home to over 400 species of birds, making it a paradise for birdwatchers and ornithologists. The provincial bird, the common loon, is often seen and heard on still lakes at dawn.
81. The province boasts over 30,000 species of plants, fungi, and lichens, contributing to its rich biodiversity. Regions near Lake Superior are especially noted for their biodiversity due to the unique microclimates surrounding this massive body of water.
82. Ontario’s diverse landscapes include boreal forests, Carolinian forests, wetlands, grasslands, and alpine regions, providing habitat for a wide variety of wildlife. These habitats are vital for endangered species and also attract ecotourism.
83. The Great Lakes, which border Ontario—including Lake Superior and Lake Ontario—contain about 20% of the world’s surface freshwater, offering essential habitat for aquatic life and serving as crucial resources for nearby communities.
84. Ontario’s forests play a crucial role in carbon sequestration and climate regulation, helping to mitigate the impacts of climate change. Many forested areas are also known for their natural beauty, attracting photographers, hikers, and conservationists.
85. The province is home to several species of large mammals, including moose, black bears, wolves, white-tailed deer, and cougars (though they are rare). In the far north, closer to Hudson Bay, polar bears may be spotted seasonally.
86. Ontario’s freshwater rivers and lakes support diverse fish populations, including trout, salmon, bass, and walleye, making it a popular destination for anglers. This abundance contributes to local farm revenue in remote areas through food tourism and sustainable fishing.
87. The Niagara Escarpment, a UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve, is an ancient geological formation that supports unique habitats and rare plant species, stretching from the Niagara region to the Bruce Peninsula.
88. Ontario’s wetlands, including those found in national parks like Point Pelee and Wabakimi, are vital for water purification, flood control, and providing habitat for a variety of plant and animal species.
89. The province’s conservation efforts, including the establishment of national parks and protected areas, aim to preserve Ontario’s natural heritage for future generations to enjoy. These areas span both the eastern time zone and the central time zone, reflecting the province’s geographic breadth.

Interesting Facts About The Natural Resources Of Ontario

90. Ontario is Canada’s leading producer of minerals, including nickel, gold, copper, platinum group metals, and salt. The province’s mining industry is rooted in its vast mineral wealth, particularly in Northern and Northeastern Ontario, generating billions of dollars annually and supporting thousands of jobs.
91. Ontario’s vast forests cover approximately 71 million hectares, making up about 66% of the province’s land area. These forests support a thriving forestry industry, producing timber, pulp, and paper products. They are also home to various cash crops and play a critical role in maintaining biodiversity and ecological balance.
92. Ontario is rich in freshwater resources, with over 250,000 lakes and numerous major rivers. The Great Lakes alone account for about one-fifth of the world’s surface freshwater supply, placing Ontario at the centre of discussions around freshwater preservation.
93. Ontario’s agricultural sector is highly productive, with over 50,000 farms producing a wide variety of crops, including corn, soybeans, wheat, fruits, and vegetables. Much of this agricultural land lies in the southern portion of the province, where fertile soil and a temperate climate help boost farm revenue.
94. Ontario harnesses its abundant water resources to generate hydroelectric power, with major facilities located on rivers such as the Niagara, Ottawa River, and Saint Lawrence River. Hydropower continues to be one of the province’s most sustainable energy sources.
95. Ontario is a leader in renewable energy, particularly wind and solar power. The province has over 5,000 megawatts of installed wind capacity and numerous solar farms contributing to its clean energy mix.
96. Ontario relies heavily on nuclear power for its electricity needs. The province operates three nuclear power plants—Bruce, Darlington, and Pickering—providing about 60% of its electricity. These facilities are overseen with support from both provincial and government services at the federal level.
97. Ontario has significant natural gas resources and infrastructure, including storage facilities and pipelines. Natural gas is an important energy source for heating, electricity generation, and industrial processes across the province’s regional municipalities.
98. The province has extensive deposits of aggregate materials, such as sand, gravel, and crushed stone, which are essential for construction and infrastructure projects—especially in high-growth areas across the Golden Horseshoe.
99. Ontario’s freshwater lakes and rivers support a robust commercial and recreational fishing industry. Key species include walleye, northern pike, lake trout, and salmon, contributing to the province’s economy, cultural traditions, and tourism industry.

Fun Facts About Ontario Cities & Towns

100. Toronto is the fourth largest city in North America, with a total population of over three million people. It is often regarded as the most multicultural city in the world and a key hub in Ontario’s thriving economy.
101. With over 156 waterfalls found within its city limits, Hamilton, Ontario, has been designated the Waterfall Capital of the World. This stunning feature is part of the natural beauty found along the Niagara Escarpment and throughout Southwestern Ontario.
102. Tim Hortons, a staple of any Canadian road trip, first opened in Hamilton, Ontario, in 1964. Today, it’s a cultural icon recognized across Canada and far beyond.
103. Kingston served as the first capital of the United Province of Canada between 1841 and 1844, before the region was officially divided during the Split Quebec debates that shaped early Canadian governance.
104. Located just south of Detroit, Windsor is the most southern city in all of Canada—closer to Middle Island, the country’s southernmost point, than many people realize.
105. Kitchener, a city of 200,000 people, is home to the world’s largest Oktoberfest celebration outside of Germany, attracting tourists and reflecting the region’s diverse range of European heritage communities.
106. Whitby, Ontario, is home to Camp X, a historic spy school that operated during WWII and is said to have famously trained Ian Fleming and Roald Dahl. This little-known historical site contributes to Ontario’s unique legacy in global intelligence efforts.
107. As a result of three convicted serial killers between 1959 and 1984, London, Ontario, earned the reputation of being the Serial Killer Capital of the world, a dark distinction that remains part of the city’s urban lore.
108. Markham, Ontario, is one of the most diverse cities in Canada, with over 70% of its population identifying as visible minorities. It stands as a leading multicultural city and a tech centre in the province.
109. The Sudbury Basin in Sudbury is the third-largest impact crater on Earth and dates back nearly 1.9 billion years. This region continues to be vital for the province’s mineral wealth and mining output.
110. Ontario is home to two capital cities—the provincial capital in Toronto and the Federal Capital in Ottawa, which also serves as the seat of Canada’s federal government.
111. James Naismith, the man who invented basketball, was born in Almonte, a small town in Eastern Ontario. His legacy lives on through global sports culture and Canadian pride.

Facts About Ontario Population

112. Ontario is the most populous province in Canada, with over 14 million residents. It also has the highest population density of any Canadian province, largely concentrated in the southern portion near the Great Lakes.
113. Toronto, the capital of Ontario, is Canada’s largest city and the fourth largest in North America. It is also one of the most multicultural cities in the world, home to residents from over 200 different ethnic backgrounds.
114. Ontario is one of the most multicultural regions in the world, with over 200 different ethnic origins reported by its residents. Cities like Markham and Brampton showcase Ontario’s diverse range of cultures, languages, and traditions.
115. The Greater Toronto Area (GTA) is one of the fastest-growing metropolitan areas in North America. Its rapid expansion contributes to both Ontario’s thriving economy and its increasing demand for housing, transit, and services.
116. Ottawa, the nation’s capital, has a population of over one million people. It also serves as the seat of Canada’s federal government, making it a major centre for politics, public administration, and diplomacy.
117. The population density of Ontario is higher than any other province in Canada, with most residents concentrated in the Golden Horseshoe and other parts of Southwestern Ontario.
118. Ontario’s population growth is driven by immigration, with thousands of newcomers settling in the province each year. According to Statistics Canada, Ontario receives more immigrants annually than any other province.
119. The median age of Ontario residents is slightly higher than the national average, reflecting an aging population and long-term residents who have contributed to the province’s development over generations.
120. Northern Ontario, while vast in size, has a much lower population density compared to the southern regions. Much of the north is part of the Canadian Shield, offering beautiful but remote landscapes.
121. Ontario is officially bilingual, with English and French recognized as its official languages. This aligns with the province’s official language designation. French-speaking communities are especially prevalent in Eastern Ontario and parts of the northeast.

Facts About Ontario Industry

122. Ontario is Canada’s leading manufacturing province, with industries ranging from automotive to aerospace. Its industrial base is essential to the national economy and creates opportunities across multiple sectors.
123. The automotive industry is a significant contributor to Ontario’s economy, with major manufacturing plants operated by companies like General Motors, Ford, and Toyota. This sector is especially strong in cities like Windsor, Oshawa, and London.
124. The Greater Toronto Area (GTA) is a hub for technology and innovation, with numerous startups and established tech companies. It has become one of North America’s leading centres for AI, fintech, and advanced manufacturing.
125. Ontario is a major producer of agricultural products, including grains, fruits, and vegetables. Cash crops like corn and soybeans dominate the farmland in the southern portion of the province, particularly in areas with fertile soil and easy market access.
126. The mining industry is important to Ontario’s economy, with significant deposits of minerals like gold, nickel, and copper. Regions around Sudbury and Northwestern Ontario are particularly rich in mineral wealth.
127. The province is a leader in renewable energy, particularly wind and solar power generation. These initiatives align with broader sustainability goals outlined by Canada’s federal government and supported by both provincial and federal government services.
128. Ontario’s film and television industry, centred in Toronto and surrounding areas, is one of the largest in North America. The province is often referred to as “Hollywood North” and continues to draw international productions.
129. Tourism is a significant industry in Ontario, with attractions like Niagara Falls, Georgian Bay, and the Blue Mountains drawing millions of visitors each year. These destinations showcase the province’s natural beauty and cultural experiences.
130. Aerospace and defence industries play a crucial role in Ontario’s economy, with companies like Bombardier and CAE having a strong presence in the province. These sectors provide high-paying jobs and drive technological advancement.
131. Ontario’s financial sector, centred in Toronto’s Financial District, is a major contributor to the province’s GDP and employs thousands of people in banking, insurance, and investment services. As the economic heart of Canada, Toronto plays a pivotal role in both national and global markets.

Facts About Ontario Sports

132. The Hockey Hall of Fame, located in Toronto, celebrates the history and achievements of ice hockey and honours its greatest players, coaches, and builders. This iconic attraction is also one of Toronto’s most popular tourist attractions.
133. Ontario is home to several professional sports teams, including the Toronto Maple Leafs (NHL), Toronto Raptors (NBA), Toronto Blue Jays (MLB), and Toronto FC (MLS). These teams are a source of pride for Canada’s largest city and draw fans from across the province.
134. The Canadian Football League’s (CFL) oldest team, the Hamilton Tiger-Cats, is based in Hamilton, Ontario. The team’s long-standing rivalry with the Toronto Argonauts is one of the most storied in Canadian football.
135. Ontario hosts several major golf tournaments, including the RBC Canadian Open and the CP Women’s Open, attracting top players from around the world. Some of these events are hosted in scenic areas like Lake Ontario and the Blue Mountains, offering both challenging courses and stunning views.
136. Toronto is known for its annual Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF), one of the largest and most prestigious film festivals in the world. The event contributes significantly to the province’s thriving economy and global cultural influence.
137. Ontario is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, offering opportunities for hiking, camping, fishing, skiing, and snowboarding throughout the province. Areas such as Lake Superior Provincial Park and Georgian Bay Islands National Park are hotspots for adventure and exploration.
138. The Rogers Cup, an annual tennis tournament held in Toronto and Montreal, attracts top international tennis players and is part of the ATP and WTA tours. Toronto’s role in hosting this event highlights the city’s prominence in global sports.
139. Ontario is home to numerous marathons and road races, including the Toronto Marathon and the Ottawa Marathon, drawing runners from across Canada and beyond. These races often run through historic and scenic areas, showcasing the natural beauty of Ontario’s urban and rural landscapes.
140. Ontario’s Great Lakes provide ample opportunities for boating, sailing, and watersports, with marinas and yacht clubs dotting the shoreline. The expansive coasts of Lake Huron, Lake Ontario, and Lake Superior offer endless opportunities for water recreation.
141. The Ontario Sports Hall of Fame honours athletes and sports figures who have made significant contributions to the province’s sporting legacy, helping to inspire future generations across this second largest province.

Ontario Entertainment Facts

142. Ontario is home to Canada’s largest film and television production industry, centred in Toronto and known as “Hollywood North.” This industry has helped to establish Ontario as a global hub for creative talent and content production.
143. The Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) is one of the most prestigious film festivals in the world, attracting filmmakers, actors, and industry professionals from around the globe. Held each September, TIFF transforms downtown Toronto into a vibrant cultural hotspot.
144. Ontario has a vibrant live music scene, with venues ranging from intimate clubs to large arenas hosting concerts by local and international artists. Major festivals like Boots and Hearts and Ottawa Bluesfest attract large audiences annually.
145. The Stratford Festival in Stratford, Ontario, is one of the premier theatre festivals in North America, featuring productions of Shakespearean plays and other classics. It draws cultural tourists from across Canada, the U.S., and even Great Britain.
146. Ontario’s casino resorts, such as Casino Niagara and Casino Rama, offer gaming, entertainment, and dining options for visitors looking to try their luck. These venues are part of the broader entertainment and tourism industry that supports the province’s economy.
147. Toronto’s vibrant theatre district, located in the downtown Entertainment District, features a wide range of performances, including Broadway musicals, plays, and comedy shows. This area is among the busiest in the city and a core part of its nightlife.
148. Ontario is home to several theme parks and attractions, including Canada’s Wonderland in Vaughan and the Niagara Parks attractions in Niagara Falls. These parks are beloved by families and offer seasonal fun, thrill rides, and live entertainment.
149. The Toronto Symphony Orchestra (TSO) is one of Canada’s leading orchestras, performing classical and contemporary music at Roy Thomson Hall in downtown Toronto. The orchestra’s international collaborations help raise Ontario’s profile on the global arts stage.
150. Ontario’s vibrant arts and culture scene includes galleries, museums, and cultural institutions showcasing works by Canadian and international artists. Cities like Toronto, Ottawa, and North Bay all contribute to this creative ecosystem.
151. The National Ballet of Canada, based in Toronto, is one of the world’s premier ballet companies, performing classical and contemporary works to audiences worldwide. The company plays a vital role in the preservation and innovation of the performing arts in Canada.