Ontario is the most populous province in Canada, located in east-central Canada. It is home to the nation’s capital, Ottawa, and its largest city, Toronto — the financial and cultural hub of the country.
Quick Facts
- **Capital:** Toronto
- **Population:** Over 15 million (as of 2024)
- **Area:** 1.08 million km²
- **Time Zones:** Eastern Time (most), Central Time (some western parts)
- **Official Language:** English
Geography
Ontario is bordered by Quebec to the east, Manitoba to the west, and several U.S. states to the south across the Great Lakes. The province has a diverse landscape that includes forests, lakes, farmland, and the Canadian Shield.
Major Cities
- Toronto – Provincial capital and Canada’s largest city
- Ottawa – National capital of Canada
- Mississauga
- Hamilton
- London (Ontario)
- Kitchener-Waterloo
- Windsor
Economy
Ontario has the largest economy in Canada, driven by:
- Finance and banking (centered in Toronto)
- Manufacturing (especially automotive)
- Technology and innovation (especially in Waterloo and Ottawa)
- Natural resources (mining and forestry in northern Ontario)
Education
Ontario is home to some of Canada’s top universities and colleges, including:
- University of Toronto
- University of Ottawa
- Western University
- Queen’s University
- Waterloo University
Culture and Attractions
Ontario is a cultural melting pot with many ethnic communities and events. Key attractions include:
- Niagara Falls
- CN Tower
- Parliament Hill in Ottawa
- Algonquin Provincial Park
- Royal Ontario Museum
Transportation
The province has a vast network of highways, public transit, and airports. Toronto Pearson International Airport is the busiest in Canada.
Did You Know?
- Ontario produces over 50% of all manufactured goods in Canada.
- The word “Ontario” comes from an Iroquois word meaning “beautiful water” or “sparkling lake.”
External Links
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