Hallmark’s ‘The Way Home’ Filmed in Ontario, Canada

Have you ever watched a show and felt an immediate urge to pack your bags and visit the places you see on screen? Hallmark Channel’s ‘The Way Home’ does just that! Since its premiere in 2023, this fan-favorite series, starring Chyler Leigh, Sadie Laflamme-Snow, and Andie MacDowell, has captivated audiences with its charming small-town aesthetic, complete with quiet roads, sunny skies, and moody waterfronts. The show’s setting is crucial to its mysterious, small-town narrative, and its visual realism adds an authentic touch.

Where is the Fictional Port Haven?

On screen, the fictional town of Port Haven in New Brunswick feels like a quintessential coastal Canadian community. With its winding roads, seaside views, and semi-rural charm, it sets the perfect stage for the Landry family’s story. However, Port Haven isn’t a real place you can find on a map!

Instead, the production team masterfully pieced together the look and feel of Port Haven using several picturesque locations in Ontario. The charming town of Port Perry served as a primary filming site, with additional scenes shot in Uxbridge and other areas around the Greater Toronto Area. This careful selection of locales gives Port Haven a layered realism and a unique visual identity that anchors the series.

A Road Trip Through Ontario’s Filming Hotspots

Port Perry, Ontario, was a major hub for ‘The Way Home,’ with both interior and exterior scenes filmed there in 2022. This underrated gem, located northeast of Toronto, boasts a charming downtown, historic architecture, and beautiful waterfront access, making it an ideal stand-in for the fictional Port Haven. Key spots within Port Perry included Queen Street and Palmer Park Dock, where filming for season two took place in late 2023.

The production also utilized areas around Latcham Center, Water Street, and Old Rail Lane. Even as the fourth season is being filmed in Ontario, fans can look forward to recognizing more real local hotspots. It’s fascinating how these real places contribute to the show’s immersive atmosphere!

Planning Your Visit to Port Perry

If you’re inspired to visit these filming locations, Port Perry offers a delightful experience. The best time to visit depends on your preference: September to October offers mild weather and fewer crowds with beautiful fall foliage, while June to August provides warm, sunny days and a livelier atmosphere. Getting around is easy with Durham Region Transit buses, taxis, or shuttles.

While in Port Perry, you can explore natural beauty at Palmer Park or visit the Willowtree Farm market. For dining, Marwan’s Global Bistro offers a casual experience, while Pickles & Olives Bistro provides a more upscale option. Charming accommodations like The Piano Cafe and George Stanley Inn, or the Great Blue Heron Hotel, offer scenic stays close to attractions.

Did You Know?

Interestingly, the iconic house used in ‘The Way Home’ has also appeared in another beloved Canadian series! According to Dexerto, the same Ontario house served as a filming location for ‘Anne with an E.’ It’s amazing how these versatile locations can bring different stories to life.