I had a friend recently tell me about how beautiful it is to take the train through Paris, Ontario. The rail bridge is elevated over the Grand River and you get a perfect view of the small town in the near distance. But, he admitted that’s he’s never stopped to see the town.
Paris is located about an hour and half west of Toronto. It’s known as the cobblestone capital of Canada because of the number of aged cobblestone houses. A key example of this is historic Hamilton Place, a house built in the 1840s in the Greek Revival Style and constructed entirely of cobblestone. Paris is considered to be one of, if not the prettiest small towns Canada. It has loads of charm, serenity, friendly people, restaurants, bakeries and of course a picturesque backdrop. And although Parisians here don’t separate their neighbourhoods by Arrondissements, you can make a case for Paris, Ontario having a left and right bank of the Grand River.
The town has hosted an annual Fall Fair over the Labour Day long weekend for more than 150 years. It attracts thousands and features grandstand entertainment, agricultural displays, exhibits, livestock shows, a midway and even a demolition derby.
Instead of going on and talking about Paris, I thought to better show you what Paris, Ontario is all about in photos.
The Arlington Hotel. Built in 1850, it’s an Ontario Heritage Site
Paris, Ontario makes for an ideal road trip. Local food, local charm and not too far from the big city. For more information about restaurants, accommodations and other activities along the banks of the Grand, please refer to the official Paris, Ontario directory. My advice is to park the car and walk around. Take your time, relax and discover Paris your way. Meander the streets and sample the flavours.
Jim Bamboulis has held several posts over the past 12 years, including National Sportscaster, Food Host and Writer, Talk Show Host, Olympic Researcher and Travel Film-maker.
Born and raised in Toronto, Jim learned early on that the combination of travel and food meant ultimate living. Combining his insatiable creative spirit and desire to document his travels, Jim took his unshakable travel bug and set off to explore. Add the fact that Jim also grew up in a Greek household and he learned that not only does Mom always make the best meals, but as importantly learned the importance of understanding and appreciating the countless beautiful cultures and the integral role food plays in every corner of the World.
In August 2009, Jim founded Travel Mammal, a site that brings together his travels and experiences (both good and terrifying) with the hope that others are inspired to share their own. We are all storytellers, especially when it comes to travel and food. He urges everyone to be inspired, explore and love the world and the people that share it with us. Or in other words, Live to Travel and travel to live!
