Exploring Ontario Towns That Bring Port Haven To Life
There’s a certain magic that happens when a TV show transports you so completely that you can almost feel the breeze off the water or hear the crunch of gravel roads underfoot. Hallmark Channel’s The Way Home has done exactly that for viewers since its 2023 debut, captivating audiences with heartfelt storytelling and a picturesque backdrop.
But here’s the twist — the charming seaside town of Port Haven, New Brunswick that fans have fallen in love with doesn’t actually exist. This fictional world is stitched together from real-life Ontario towns that capture the essence of small-town Atlantic Canada.
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For fans eager to walk in the footsteps of the Landry family, the filming locations of The Way Home might just be your next travel obsession.
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On screen, Port Haven feels like the quintessential coastal Canadian town — quaint, moody, and full of heart. Yet, the production team behind The Way Home pulled off a clever illusion.
Rather than filming in New Brunswick, they created this world in Ontario, blending together multiple locations to achieve that perfect maritime vibe. The show’s emotional landscape owes a lot to these real-life backdrops that give Port Haven its authentic charm.
At the center of this cinematic magic is Port Perry, Ontario. This small town northeast of Toronto became the heart of the show’s production, providing both interior and exterior settings for the Landry family’s story.
Its historic downtown, lakeside views, and welcoming atmosphere made it the ideal stand-in for the fictional Port Haven. According to local sources, filming took place here in 2022, with the crew returning again for season two in late 2023.
Port Perry: Where Fiction Meets Reality
Port Perry’s charm lies in its ability to feel both timeless and alive. Queen Street and Palmer Park Dock were among the most notable filming spots, transformed into the bustling heart of Port Haven.
Locals may have spotted film crews along Water Street, Old Rail Lane, and near the Latcham Center — all of which helped piece together the show’s layered sense of place. Despite minor traffic slowdowns, the town embraced its moment in the spotlight.
Local businesses continued to thrive alongside the production. Even now, The Way Home continues to film in Ontario, with reports confirming that season four is already in production.
Fans visiting Port Perry might even stumble upon a familiar scene being shot or recognize landmarks from the show’s most emotional moments. The experience of standing where your favorite characters once stood is nothing short of surreal — a pilgrimage every devoted fan should consider.
Beyond the Screen: Exploring the Towns Behind the Story
While Port Perry serves as the main filming hub, The Way Home also utilized other nearby towns to complete the illusion of Port Haven. The production extended into Uxbridge and other parts of the Greater Toronto Area, layering different landscapes and textures to create a cohesive small-town world.
The result is a visually rich tapestry that feels both intimate and expansive — much like the show’s emotional tone itself.
Uxbridge and the Greater Toronto Area’s Cinematic Role
Uxbridge, known for its rolling countryside and heritage charm, added depth to the show’s aesthetic. Its rustic roads and scenic vistas helped shape the series’ sense of nostalgia and mystery.
The blending of these Ontario locales highlights the meticulous attention to detail from the production team, whose goal was to make Port Haven feel lived-in and real — the kind of place you could actually visit, even if it only exists on screen.
Interestingly, one of the homes used in The Way Home is the same property featured in the beloved series Anne with an E. This crossover of filming locations underscores how Ontario has quietly become a hub for productions seeking that perfect blend of authenticity and cinematic beauty.
When to Visit: Capturing the Magic in Real Life
If you’re planning to channel your inner Landry and explore the real-life Port Haven, timing is everything. Port Perry offers a different kind of beauty depending on the season.
From the fiery foliage of autumn to the sun-dappled charm of summer, there’s no wrong time to visit — but each season offers a unique lens through which to experience the town’s allure.
Best Seasons for a Picture-Perfect Visit
For travelers who crave crisp air and vibrant colors, September through October is the ideal time. The fall season paints the town in golden hues, creating a cinematic atmosphere straight out of a Hallmark movie.
Those who thrive on energy and sunshine will find summer — from June to August — to be the most lively period. The waterfront comes alive, local festivals pop up, and the town buzzes with visitors and residents alike.
Regardless of when you go, Port Perry’s small-town warmth and scenic beauty make it a destination worth exploring. Whether you’re a fan of The Way Home or just someone who appreciates charming Canadian towns, you’ll probably find yourself enchanted by its authenticity.
Getting Around: How to Explore Like a Local
Transportation in and around Port Perry is fairly straightforward, though it leans on the side of simplicity — just like the town itself. The Durham Region Transit (DRT) bus system connects travelers to nearby areas, making it easy to hop between filming spots.
For those seeking convenience, taxis and local shuttles are also available, ensuring you can explore every corner of this cinematic landscape without missing a beat.
Tips for the Ultimate Way Home Tour
- Start your journey on Queen Street — the heart of Port Haven’s downtown scenes.
- Stroll down to Palmer Park Dock for that quintessential lakeside view featured in multiple episodes.
- Visit Water Street and Old Rail Lane for a peek at some of the show’s quieter, emotional backdrops.
- Don’t forget to stop by the Latcham Center, a local landmark that played a subtle yet significant role in the show’s filming.
Each of these stops offers a glimpse into how television magic transforms real locations into something extraordinary. Fans will instantly recognize the mood and tone of The Way Home in these serene, picturesque spots.
Eat, Stay, and Experience Port Perry
After a day of exploring filming sites, you’ll want to unwind in true Port Haven fashion — with great food and cozy accommodations. Thankfully, Port Perry delivers on both fronts.
The town’s culinary and hospitality scenes perfectly complement its small-town charm, offering visitors a taste of local life that feels straight out of a Hallmark script.
Where to Eat: From Global Flavors to Cozy Bistros
For a casual yet flavorful experience, head to Marwan’s Global Bistro, where international dishes meet local flair. If you’re craving something a little more refined, Pickles & Olives Bistro offers an upscale dining experience with warm ambiance and a menu that feels both comforting and creative.
Both restaurants embody the community spirit that defines Port Perry — welcoming, vibrant, and full of heart.
Where to Stay: Sleep in Hallmark Style
When it comes to accommodations, Port Perry’s inns and hotels are as charming as the town itself. The Piano Inn and Café (also known as the George Stanley Inn) offers a delightful blend of history and comfort.
The Great Blue Heron Hotel provides scenic views and a peaceful retreat. Each option places you within walking distance of major filming sites, making it easy to immerse yourself in the world of The Way Home from sunrise to sunset.
Why Fans Keep Coming Back
The pull of *The Way Home* goes way beyond just the plotlines. It’s about that weird, wonderful connection between a place and your own feelings.
Sometimes, a location almost turns into a character itself. Port Perry and the nearby towns have given fans a chance to feel that for themselves, out in the real world.
Even though Port Haven is made up, it doesn’t really matter anymore. Fans show up, wander the streets, and honestly, it feels real enough to fall in love with.
Maybe you’re a die-hard who wants to walk where the Landrys did. Or maybe you just need a new place to escape for a weekend.
Either way, these filming spots from *The Way Home* offer a trip that’s a little bit movie-magic, a little bit heart. Pack your bags, charge your camera—just go see what all the fuss is about.
There’s something about these Ontario streets that sticks with you. Who knows, you might just end up coming back, too.
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