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North America Tours & Trips from Toronto

Find your perfect adventure! We have 63 tours of North America that start in Toronto, Canada. The most popular month is June, and tour lengths range between 4 and 35 days.

63 North America tour packages from Toronto with 1,252 reviews

Grand Canadian (19 Days) Tour

  • Coach / Bus

Grand Canadian (19 Days)

  • €100 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Historic Cities of Eastern Canada Tour

  • In-depth Cultural

Historic Cities of Eastern Canada

Really enjoyed the tour- everyone was very friendly.

Essence of Eastern Canada (End Toronto, 8 Days, Toronto Airport And Post Trip Hotel Transfer) Tour

Essence of Eastern Canada (End Toronto, 8 Days, Toronto Airport And Post Trip Hotel Transfer)

Toronto, Niagara, and Chicago with Western Classics ending Las Vegas Tour

  • Sightseeing

Toronto, Niagara, and Chicago with Western Classics ending Las Vegas

Essence of Eastern Canada (End Montreal, 8 Days) Tour

Essence of Eastern Canada (End Montreal, 8 Days)

The tour was quite interesting, the travel director was really great, professional, well-prepared, sharing a lot of knowledge, entertaining, always cheerful! But what I did not like to much was that we spent too much time sitting and too little time walking. Obviously, travelling from one destination to another, one necessarily spends a couple of hours on the bus. But what I did not like was that the city sightseeing tours where on the bus again. Too me, that had not been made clear in the tour description. I would have preferred one or the other walking tour in the destination. But, maybe, the group was too big for that (about 50 persons), so, I'd also prefer travelling with a smaller group.

Canadian Train Odyssey Tour

  • Train & Rail

Canadian Train Odyssey

I would like to see more meals offered. Not use to locating evening meals in unknown city. Understand if stopping at place and everyone buys their own, but evening meals???? Breakfast in past has been standard.

Ontario & French Canada (6 destinations) Tour

Ontario & French Canada (6 destinations)

The tour was fantastic from start to finish. The tour guide Gladys was excellent - professional, knowledgeable, kind, caring , patient, and terrific in everyway. The bus driver Dave, did a great job taking the group from city to city safely and with a friendly smile and greeting everyday. The itinerary was great- Toronto, Ottawa, and Montreal. We were a diverse groups of friendly travelers enjoying every bit of beautiful Canada . OHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH Such a Great Trip!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Best of Eastern Canada (End Montreal, 9 Days) Tour

Best of Eastern Canada (End Montreal, 9 Days)

Optional excursions were reasonably priced. Suggest you put together other places in each city as a walking guide or short taxi or uber ride. Example access to close by museums open late and could walk to from hotel. Free time activities and what they are and where located is helpful.tour guide can offer to accompany a group interested to explore more during free leisure tome.Provide more detail info about the logistics of site visits. Niagara falls..suggest more water proof gear clothing and shoe types etc. Terrain to expect when visiting certain sites and possible alternatives.climbing and how difficult-easy or more strenuous or advanced climbing activity. Overall, small groups so much better than filling up bus. Thank you for giving single travelers their own bus space. Would love to watch more travel videos on longer driving distances.

Great Canadian Rail Journey Tour

Great Canadian Rail Journey

I really had a great time all the people were so friendly and nice .The accommodation was fantastic the meals really good and James was full of info and a very helpful friendly guy.It was the trip of a lifetime .

Best of Eastern Canada (End Toronto, 9 Days, Toronto Airport Departure Transfer) Tour

Best of Eastern Canada (End Toronto, 9 Days, Toronto Airport Departure Transfer)

Very nice tour. Would have liked more time in a place or two but, overall, good.

Ontario & French Canada with Ocean Train to Halifax Tour

Ontario & French Canada with Ocean Train to Halifax

Canadian Contrasts Tour

Canadian Contrasts

Breakfasts were not that great and I was not impressed with them and there was no dinner or lunch included in our program,otherwise it was Ok

Toronto, Niagara with East Coast End Washington Tour

Toronto, Niagara with East Coast End Washington

Eastern Canada Adventure (Summer, 9 Days) Tour

Eastern Canada Adventure (Summer, 9 Days)

Best of Eastern Canada & USA (Classic, 16 Days) Tour

Best of Eastern Canada & USA (Classic, 16 Days)

What people love about north america tours from toronto.

Well organized and we managed to see everything we wanted.
I LOVED this tour. This was my first time as a solo traveller. The tour guide and the driver were both excellent. The experiences were incredible. Trying to arrange the amount of cities, and experiences solo, with hotels, travel etc is not possible for anywhere near the amount paid. Value for money is excellent. Hotels overall were good. There were some that were a little out of the cities, however the tour guide and driver did their best to accommodate by driving everyone back into the city if they wanted to go. Most of the experiences were really good. The Montmorency Falls as an extra trip with meal was a little pricey. There was not enough time at the Falls and the best view would be down the bottom. This could have been a free trip, without the meal, I would suggest this is looked at. Also in Montreal the tour guide who took us round, was not very engaging and it was difficult to hear her. Everything else was spot on. Well organised, excellent value for money, lovely people, beautiful country, wide range of experiences. LOVED IT. Will definitely be doing another tour.
Peter was awesome and knew his stuff.

Tours starting from Toronto

  • Toronto to Toronto tours (16)
  • Toronto to Montreal tours (15)
  • Toronto to Vancouver tours (11)
  • Toronto to New York City tours (5)
  • Explorer from Toronto (58)
  • Family from Toronto (41)
  • Coach / Bus from Toronto (18)
  • Ocean Cruise from Toronto (14)
  • In-depth Cultural from Toronto (12)
  • Train & Rail from Toronto (6)

International Versions

  • Deutsch: Nordamerika Rundreisen ab Toronto
  • Français: Circuits Amérique du Nord au départ de Toronto
  • Español: Circuitos por América del Norte desde Toronto
  • Nederlands: Noord-Amerika Rondreizen die starten in Toronto

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53 Best Day Trips From Toronto (2024 Local Guide)

Table of Contents

Day trips are the perfect way to get out and explore a new place without having to spend too much time or money.

And Toronto is a great city from which to launch day trips, thanks to its convenient location and wealth of attractions.

After living in Toronto for most of my life, I’ve discovered all of the best one day trips you can take from downtown Toronto or the suburbs out to nearby cities, towns, and hiking areas.

Don’t limit yourself to the downtown core on your next trip to Toronto.

Discover the 53 best Toronto day trips to explore more of what Ontario has to offer (and tips on how to get there!).

How to Get Around Ontario

There are a few different ways to get around Ontario depending on your budget and how much time you have.

If you’re just looking to get out of the city for the day, then the GO Train is a great option as it runs frequently and takes you right into the heart of most destinations.

If you don’t have your own car, other options are VIA Rail , although it can be quite expensive, and Parkbus.

The best way to get around Ontario is to rent a car and drive. This gives you the freedom to go wherever you want whenever you want.

If you’re looking for a cheap rental car in Toronto, I recommend booking via Discover Cars.

53 Best Day Trips From Toronto

niagara falls with boat

1. Niagara Falls

Distance from Toronto : 130 km

Drive Time : 1 hr 45 min

Niagara Falls is one of the most famous waterfalls in the world.

It is actually a group of 3 waterfalls, namely Horseshoe Falls, American Falls, and Bridal Veil Falls.

The falls are situated on the border between Canada and the United States and they are absolutely stunning.

You can get a great view of all 3 waterfalls from Table Rock Centre.

To get even closer to the falls, you can take a ride on the Niagara Falls Incline Railway which will take you down 125 feet to the base of Horseshoe Falls.

For a more unique experience, you can take a ride on the Hornblower Cruise (formerly the Maid of the Mist), a boat that will take you right into the heart of the falls.

Just be sure to bring a raincoat as you will definitely get wet!

There are also plenty of other things to do in Niagara Falls such as visiting Niagara Parks Botanical Gardens, taking a wine tour , or exploring the many shops and restaurants in Niagara Falls.

Toronto to Niagara Falls

🚗 Drive : Take the QEW (Queen Elizabeth Way) west towards Hamilton and continue on it until you reach Niagara Falls.

Read more about the drive from Toronto to Niagara Falls here.

🚐 Tour: The easiest way to get to Niagara Falls is on this one day tour from Toronto , that includes a ride on the Hornblower Cruise!

🚇 Train : The GoTrain runs from Toronto to Niagara from May to Thanksgiving annually, with direct service to Niagara Falls. You can also go to Burlington GO Station and connect on the 12B Go Bus to Niagara to be more flexible on when you leave/return.

🚌 Bus : Megabus runs a service from Union Station to the Casino in Niagara Falls.

👉 I recommend this day tour to Niagara Falls from Toronto !

canoes on the shore of a muskoka lake

Distance from Toronto: 220 km

Drive Time : 2 hrs 20 min

Muskoka is a cottage country region located in central Ontario.

It is a popular summer getaway for Torontonians and it’s easy to see why with its stunning scenery, crystal clear lakes, and a plethora of outdoor activities.

There are many charming towns located in Muskoka such as Huntsville, Bracebridge, and Gravenhurst.

In these towns, you’ll find plenty of cute shops and restaurants as well as some great museums and art galleries.

Some of the best things to do in Muskoka include taking a scenic boat cruise, visiting one of the many waterfalls in the area, or hiking to a lookout point for stunning views of the landscape.

Don’t forget to try the local craft beers!

Turn it into a weekend trip by staying at a cute Airbnb cottage.

Toronto to Muskoka

🚗 Drive : Take the 401 east out of Toronto and then take exit 269 onto Highway 11 North towards Huntsville.

🚌 Bus : Take the Ontario Northland bus from Downtown Toronto north to Gravenhurst. They run 4x per day in the summer. Or take ViaRail from St. Patrick Station to Highway 407 Station. Transfer to the Ontario Northland bus here.

👉 I recommend this day trip to Muskoka

paris ontario waterfall

Distance from Toronto : 115 km

Drive Time: 1 hr 45 minutes

Paris, Ontario is a beautiful small town located in southwestern Ontario.

It is known for its picturesque setting along the Grand River as well as its many bridges which earned it the nickname “The Little Venice of Canada”.

Some of the best things to do in Paris include strolling through the charming downtown area, visiting one of the many art galleries or museums, or going for a hike or bike ride along the Grand River.

Don’t forget to try some of the delicious local food such as maple syrup, fresh produce, and craft beer.

I highly recommend a stop at Twisted Treats for a $4 ice cream the size of a small child, topped with the best peanut and fudge sauces in Ontario!

Toronto to Paris

🚗 Drive : Take the 401 west out of Toronto and then take exit 275 onto Highway 24 south towards Paris.

red chair toronto islands

4. Toronto Islands

Distance from Toronto: 10 km

Drive Time: 20-30 min

The Toronto Islands are a group of small islands located just offshore from Downtown Toronto.

They are accessible by ferry and make for a great day trip or even a weekend getaway.

There are 3 main islands to explore which are Centre Island, Ward’s Island, and Hanlan’s Point.

There are plenty of things to do on the islands such as swimming at one of the many beaches, exploring the nature trails, or renting a kayak or canoe . You can also bring a picnic and sit in one of the lovely parks for the day.

Be wary of the beaches, as some are nude beaches (and many people don’t know the boundaries between them).

Kids will love visiting Centre Island to see Centreville, a cute amusement park.

Be sure to bring your camera as there are some great views of the Toronto skyline from the islands!

Toronto to the Toronto Islands

⛴️ Ferry: Take the ferry from Bay Street in Downtown Toronto to Centre Island. The ferry ride takes about 15 minutes.

🚖 Water Taxi: You can also take a water taxi from the Harbourfront to Hanlan’s Point. The ride takes about 10 minutes.

👉 This tour is my favourite in the Toronto Islands

turkey point cycle

5. Turkey Point on Lake Erie

Distance from Toronto : 160 km

Drive Time : 2 hrs

Turkey Point is a small town located on the shores of Lake Erie in southwestern Ontario.

It is a popular summer getaway for Torontonians due to its beautiful sandy beaches, clear blue water, and lovely sunsets.

There are also many great restaurants and cafes in the town centre.

Some of the best things to do in Turkey Point include swimming, sunbathing, kayaking, and windsurfing.

You can also visit one of the many parks or go for a walk along the beach.

Don’t forget to try the local ice cream!

Toronto to Turkey Point

🚗 Drive: Take the 401 west out of Toronto and then take exit 359 onto Highway 3 east towards Turkey Point.

Small Town & City Lover Toronto Day Trips

lennart nacke Mmz6qezVvx0 unsplash

6. Stratford

Distance from Toronto: 150 km

Drive Time: 1 hr 30 min

Stratford is a small town located in southwestern Ontario, about two hours west of Toronto.

The town is most famous for being the home of the Stratford Festival, one of the largest theatre festivals in North America.

However, there is much more to Stratford than just theatre.

The town has a charming downtown area with many Victorian-era buildings and cute shops.

You can also visit one of the several parks, go for a walk or bike ride along the Avon River, or take a boat tour.

In the summer, you can cool off at the Splash Pad water park.

And in the winter, you can go ice skating at the Stratford Rotary Complex.

No matter what time of year you visit, there is always something to do in Stratford!

Toronto to Stratford

🚗 Drive : Take the 401 west out of Toronto and then take exit 268 onto Highway 7 towards Stratford.

🚐 Tour: You could also book a small-group or private day tour from Toronto. That way, you don’t have to worry about driving and can just enjoy the day.

🚇 Train : Take the VIA Rail from Union Station West towards Sarnia. Get off at the Stratford stop.

london ontario river

Distance from Toronto: 190 km

London is the largest city in southwestern Ontario and is about a two-hour drive from Toronto.

There is plenty to see and do in London, especially if you are a fan of history or art.

Some of the most popular attractions include the Royal Canadian Regiment Museum, the London Regional Children’s Museum, and the Banting House National Historic Site.

If you are looking for something more outdoorsy, you can visit one of the many parks or go for a walk or bike ride along the Thames River.

And in the winter, you can go skating at the Western Fair Sports Centre.

No matter what time of year you visit, there is always something to do in London!

Toronto to London

🚗 Drive: Take the 401 West out of Toronto. Follow signs for London.

🚇 Train : Take VIA Rail West to London from Union Station.

kingston ontario

8. Kingston

Distance from Toronto: 260 km

Drive Time : 2.5 hrs

Kingston is located in southeastern Ontario on the shores of Lake Ontario. It’s about a 2.5 hour drive from Toronto and makes for a great day trip.

Kingston is well-known for its many museums, including the Kingston Penitentiary Museum, the Fort Henry National Historic Site, and the Museum of Health Care.

There are also plenty of opportunities to enjoy the outdoors here. You can go for a walk or bike ride along the waterfront, rent a canoe or kayak and explore the Thousand Islands, or go for a hike in one of the many parks.

And in the winter, you can go skating on the Outdoor Skating Rink at City Park.

Kingston is a common stop on Ontario road trips, as it’s halfway between Toronto and Ottawa.

Toronto to Kingston

🚗 Drive: Take the 401 East out of Toronto and take Exit 617 for Kingston 10. Continue on this road until you reach Kingston.

🚇 Train : Take VIA Rail East directly to Kingston.

hamilton city centre

9. Hamilton

Distance from Toronto: 70 km

Drive Time : 1 hour

Hamilton is a city located in southern Ontario. It’s about an hour drive from Toronto and makes for a great day trip.

The city is home to some excellent museums, including the Art Gallery of Hamilton, the Canadian Warplane Heritage Museum, and the Dundurn Castle.

Hamilton is also a great place to enjoy the outdoors. Some of the best places to go for a walk or hike include the Waterfront Trail, Webster’s Falls, and the Devil’s Punch Bowl.

The most popular hiking spot is Dundas Peak.

Toronto to Hamilton

🚗 Drive : Take the QEW towards Hamilton.

🚌 Bus : The Go Bus runs from Renforth Transitway Station or Square One in Mississauga to Main St. in Hamilton.

st jacobs mennonite

10. St. Jacob’s and the Farmers Market

Distance from Toronto: 120 km

Drive Time: 1 hour 15 minutes

St. Jacobs is a small town located in southern Ontario. It’s about an hour and fifteen minutes drive from Toronto and makes for a great day trip.

The town is home to the world-famous St. Jacobs Farmers Market. This market has been in operation for over 40 years and is one of the largest in Canada.

The market is open every Wednesday and Saturday from 7am to 3:30pm.

In addition to the market, St. Jacobs is also home to the Mennonite Heritage Village Museum. This museum is dedicated to preserving the history and culture of the Mennonite people.

Toronto to St. Jacobs

🚗 Drive: Take the Gardiner Expressway West. Follow signs to exit onto the 427. Exit to the 401 West. Exit onto Highway 8 towards Waterloo. Continue to Highway 7, then follow signs for Highway 85 North. Follow signs to St. Jacob’s and the market.

guelph downtown

Distance from Toronto : 95 km

Drive Time: 1 hour

Guelph is a city located in southern Ontario. It’s about an hour’s drive from Toronto and makes for a great day trip.

The city is home to the McMaster Museum of Art, the Guelph Civic Museum, and the Church of Our Lady Immaculate.

Guelph is also a great place to enjoy the outdoors. Some of the best places to go for a walk or hike include the Royal City Park, the Eramosa River Park, and the Arboretum.

Toronto to Guelph

🚗 Drive : Take the 401 West out of Toronto and take exit 295 for Highway 6 North towards Guelph. Follow this road into Guelph.

🚌 Bus : From Renforth Station, you can take the Go Bus to the University of Guelph.

peterborough church

12. Peterborough

Distance from Toronto : 140 km

Drive Time : 1 hour 30 minutes

1.5 hours from Toronto is the city of Peterborough. This city is located in the Kawarthas, a region known for its many lakes and rivers.

The main attraction in Peterborough is The Liftlock, the world’s highest hydraulic boat lift. The Liftlock is located on the Trent-Severn Waterway and lifts.

1,500 metric tons of water 43 meters up in order to allow boats to pass through.

Definitely, a must-see!

Other attractions in Peterborough include the Art Gallery of Peterborough, the Petroglyphs Provincial Park, and the Fisherman’s Paradise.

If you’re looking for a short drive from Toronto, Peterborough is the perfect place for a day trip!

Toronto to Peterborough

🚗 Drive : Take the 401 east out of Toronto and take exit 437A for Highway 115/7 toward Lindsay/Peterborough. Follow this road into Peterborough.

🚇  Train: Take the Go Train to Oshawa Station. You will then need to transfer to a Go Bus. Take Bus 88 to get to the heart of Peterborough.

waterloo museum kitchener

13. Kitchener Waterloo

Distance from Toronto: 110 km

Kitchener Waterloo is a region located in southern Ontario. It’s about an hour and fifteen minutes drive from Toronto.

This region is home to the Waterloo Region Museum, the Mennonite Heritage Village, and the Doon Heritage Village.

Kitchener Waterloo is also a great place to enjoy the outdoors. Some of the best places to go for a walk or hike include the Huron Natural Area, the Grand River Trail, and the Walter Bean Trail.

It’s also home to Waterloo University and Wilfred Laurier University.

This has fostered a large pub scene with some of the best bars outside of Toronto.

Toronto to Kitchener Waterloo

🚗 Drive : Take the 401 west out of Toronto and take exit 275 for Highway 6 North towards Guelph/Kitchener. Follow this road for about 35 minutes before taking the exit for Waterloo/St. Jacobs. Once you’re in Kitchener, follow the signs to the attractions you want to see.

🚌 Bus : Take the 40 Go Bus from Renforth Station to Hamilton. Transfer to the 25J Go Bus and take it to Weber St. E @ Queen St. N.

14. Brantford

Distance from Toronto: 105 km

Brantford is a city located in southwestern Ontario. It’s about a one hour drive from Toronto with lots of activities to check out.

The city is home to the Canadian Museum of Indigenous History, the Bell Homestead National Historic Site (home to the inventor of the telephone!), and the Brant County Museum.

Brantford is also a great place to enjoy the outdoors. Some of the best places to go for a walk or hike include the Grand River, the Happy Rolph’s Bird Sanctuary, and the Elora Gorge Conservation Area.

Brantford makes the perfect summer day trip from Toronto.

Toronto to Brantford

🚗 Drive : Take the 401 west out of Toronto and take exit 298 for Highway 403 towards Hamilton/Brantford. Follow this road into Brantford.

🚇 Train : VIA Rail runs a direct service from Union Station to Brantford (the 73 to Windsor).

milton sunset road

Distance from Toronto: 60 km

Drive Time: 45 minutes

Milton is a town located in southern Ontario. It’s about a 45 minute drive from Toronto, past the airport.

The town is home to the Milton Museum, the Halton County Radial Railway Museum, and the Country Heritage Park.

Milton is also a great place to enjoy the outdoors. Some of the best places to go for a walk or hike include the Halton County Radial Railway, the Milton Heights Conservation Area, and the Bruce Trail.

Milton makes a great day trip from Toronto for anyone interested in history or the outdoors.

Toronto to Milton

🚗 Drive : Take the 401 west out of Toronto and take exit 322 for Guelph Line/Highway 25 towards Milton. Follow this road into Milton.

🚌 Bus : From the Union Bus Terminal, take the 21B Go Bus to Milton. This terminates at Milton Station.

kawarthas kayak

16. The Kawarthas

Distance from Toronto: 140 km

Drive Time: 1.5 hours

The Kawarthas is a region located in central Ontario. It’s about a one-and-a-half-hour drive from Toronto and makes for a great day trip or weekend getaway.

The Kawarthas is home to the Kawartha Lakes, the Haliburton Highlands, and the Peterborough Petroglyphs Provincial Park.

The region is also a great place to enjoy the outdoors. Some of the best places to go for a walk or hike include the Kawartha Trans Canada Trail, the Lindsay Tract Conservation Area, and the Otonabee River Provincial Park.

The Kawarthas make a great day trip or weekend getaway from Toronto for anyone interested in nature or the outdoors.

Toronto to The Kawarthas

🚗 Drive: Take the 401 east out of Toronto and take exit 436 for Highway 28 towards Lindsay/Peterborough. Follow this road into The Kawarthas.

🚇  Train: Take the Go Train to Oshawa Station. You will then need to transfer to a Go Bus. Take Bus 88 to get to the heart of Peterborough. You will then need to connect via local buses within the Kawarthas.

Fergus is a town located in southern Ontario. It’s about a one-and-a-half-hour drive from Toronto and makes for a great day trip.

The town is home to the Earl Grey Golf Club, the Fergus Market, and the Fergus Falls.

Fergus is also a great place to enjoy the outdoors. Some of the best places to go for a walk or hike include the Guelph Radial Trail, the Elora Cataract Trailway, and the Grand River Conservation Authority.

Combine a trip to Fergus with a visit to Elora.

Arrive in August to see the Highland Games, which are a holdover of Fergus’ founding Scottish members.

Toronto to Fergus

🚗 Drive : Take the 401 West out of Toronto and take exit 275 for Highway 6 North towards Guelph/Kitchener. Follow this road into Fergus.

Hiking Day Trips Near Toronto

algonquin park bog trail

18. Algonquin Provincial Park

Distance from Toronto: 300 km

Drive Time: 3 hours

Algonquin Provincial Park is a large park located in central Ontario. It’s about a three hour drive from Toronto and makes for a great day trip or weekend getaway.

This is one of the best day trips from anywhere in Ontario!

The park is home to over 7,000 lakes, as well as numerous hiking trails. Some of the best hikes in the park include the Algonquin Lookout Trail, the Barron Canyon Trail, and the Booth’s Rock Trail.

Algonquin Provincial Park is a great place to see wildlife. The park is home to moose, deer, bears, wolves, and many other animals.

You can camp in the park or stay in one of the nearby towns, such as Huntsville or Dwight.

To break up the drive, consider a day trip from Toronto to Muskoka or Wasaga Beach before continuing on a weekend getaway to Algonquin Park in the summer.

Toronto to Algonquin Provincial Park

🚗 Drive : Take the 400 north out of Toronto and take exit 312 for Highway 11 North towards Barrie/Orillia. Follow this road into Algonquin Provincial Park.

🚐 Tour: A day trip via a small group tour like this allows you to see the best of Algonquin without being too exhausted to drive home.

Scarborough bluff's lookout

19. Scarborough Bluffs

Distance from Toronto: 20 km

Drive Time: 30 minutes

The Scarborough Bluffs is a park located in the east end of Toronto. It’s about a half-hour drive from downtown Toronto and makes for a great day trip.

The park is home to over 15 km of hiking trails, as well as Bluffers Beach.

The park is a great place to see wildlife. The park is home to many birds, including bald eagles.

You can also go for a swim in the lake or relax on the beach.

I love starting a summer morning on a paddleboard beneath the limestone cliffs.

Toronto to Scarborough Bluffs

🚗 Drive : Take Eastern Avenue to Kingston Road, continue on Brimley Road South to Bluffers Park.

🚌 Bus : Take the Go Train from Union to Kennedy Station. Take the 175 TTC bus to Bluffer’s Park.

20. Lions Head Provincial Park

Drive Time: 4 hours

Lions Head Provincial Park is a park located in Bruce Peninsula National Park. It’s about a four-hour drive from Toronto and makes for a great day trip or weekend getaway.

The park is home to over 15 km of hiking trails, as well as the Lions Head Lighthouse.

Toronto to Lions Head Provincial Park

🚗 Drive: Take the Gardinery Expressway West to the Ontario 410 North. Exit onto the 401 West and continue onto the 410 North. Continue onto Highway 10 to Owen Sound. Follow to Ontario 6 North, following signs for Tobermory.

thousand island national park aerial

21. Thousand Island National Park

Distance from Toronto: 320 km

Thousand Island National Park is one of the most beautiful places in Ontario. It’s made up of over 20 islands and is a great spot for camping, hiking, canoeing, and fishing.

The park is also home to some of the best bird watching in the province. You can see bald eagles, ospreys, herons, and kingfishers, to name a few.

For a day trip, I would recommend taking a hike on one of the many trails in the park, and then spending some time exploring one of the islands by canoe or kayak.

Toronto to Thousand Island National Park

🚗 Drive : Thousand Island National Park is located on Highway 401, about 3 hours east of Toronto.

22. French River Provincial Park

Distance from Toronto: 325 km

Drive Time: 3.5 hours

If you’re looking for a day trip that’s a little off the beaten path, French River Provincial Park is the perfect place. The park is located in the heart of cottage country, and is a popular spot for canoeing, fishing, and camping.

The French River is one of the most popular canoeing routes in Ontario, and there are plenty of companies that offer canoe and kayak rentals.

For a day trip, I would recommend taking a scenic drive through the park, stopping at some of the lookout points, and then renting a canoe or kayak to explore the river.

Toronto to French River Provincial Park

🚗 Drive : French River Provincial Park is located on Highway 69, about 3.5 hours north of Toronto.

dundas peak waterfalls

23. Spencer Gorge Conservation Area

Distance from Toronto: 75 km

Spencer Gorge Conservation Area is one of the best day trips from Toronto for nature lovers. The park is home to two waterfalls, and is a popular spot for hiking and picnicking.

The trails in Spencer Gorge are relatively easy, and there are plenty of places to stop and take in the views.

For a day trip, I would recommend hiking to the top of Tew’s Falls, and then spending some time exploring nearby Hamilton.

Toronto to Spencer Gorge Conservation Area

🚗 Drive: Spencer Gorge Conservation Area is located on Highway 403, about 1 hour west of Toronto.

🚌 Bus : The Go Bus runs from Renforth Transitway Station or Square One in Mississauga to Main St. in Hamilton. From there you can hike to the conservation area or cycle.

killarney provincial park lookout

24. Killarney Provincial Park

Distance from Toronto: 275 km

Drive Time: 4.5 hours

Killarney Provincial Park is one of the most popular day trips (and multi-day trips) from Toronto, and for good reason. The park is located in cottage country, and is a popular spot for camping, canoeing, and hiking.

The park is also home to some of the best scenery in Ontario, with its rocky shores, clear waters, and lush vegetation.

For a day trip, I would recommend taking a hike to one of the many lookouts in the park, and then spending some time exploring the town of Killarney.

Toronto to Killarney Provincial Park

🚗 Drive : Killarney Provincial Park is located on Highway 400 North.

25. Craigleith Provincial Park

Distance from Toronto: 165 km

Drive Time: 2.5 hours

Craigleith Provincial Park is one of the best day trips from Toronto for hikers and nature lovers. The park is home to a variety of trails, ranging from easy to difficult. There are also plenty of places to stop and take in the views.

For a day trip, I would recommend taking a hike to one of the lookouts in the park, and then spending some time exploring the town of Collingwood.

Toronto to Craigleith Provincial Park

🚗 Drive: Craigleith Provincial Park is located on Highway 26, about 2.5 hours north of Toronto.

killbear park tree

26. Killbear Provincial Park

Killbear is another longer day trip from Toronto, and may work better as a weekend trip.

The park is located in cottage country, and is a popular spot for camping, canoeing, and hiking.

For a day trip, I would recommend taking a hike to one of the lookouts in the park, and then spending some time exploring the town of Parry Sound.

Toronto to Killbear Provincial Park

🚗 Drive: Killbear Provincial Park is located on Highway 400, about 4 hours north of Toronto.

27. Petroglyphs Provincial Park

Distance from Toronto : 210 km

Drive Time : 2.5 hours

Petroglyphs Provincial Park is one of the best day trips from Toronto for history buffs and nature lovers. The park is home to over 500 Indigenous rock carvings, as well as a variety of hiking trails.

Toronto to Petroglyphs Provincial Park

🚗 Drive : Petroglyphs Provincial Park is located on Highway 407 East.

28. Cheltenham Badlands

Distance from Toronto: 65 km

The Cheltenham Badlands is one of the best day trips from Toronto for nature lovers and photographers. The Badlands is a small area of exposed red clay, which was formed over 12,000 years ago.

The Badlands is located in the Town of Caledon, and is a popular spot for hiking, picnicking, and photography.

Toronto to Cheltenham Badlands

🚗 Drive: Take the Gardiner to the 410 North. Follow to Hurontario Street in Caledon. Continue to Olde Base Line Road, and follow signs to the Badlands.

rattlesnake point climbing

29. Rattlesnake Point Conservation Area

Distance from Toronto : 65 km

Rattlesnake Point is another great day trip from Toronto for nature lovers and photographers. The point is located in Milton, and offers stunning views of the Niagara Escarpment.

The point is also a popular spot for hiking, picnicking, and rock climbing.

30. Ferris Provincial Park

Distance from Toronto : 185 km

Drive Time : 2 hours

Ferris Provincial Park is a great day trip for those who want to escape the hustle and bustle of the city. The park is located in the town of Bancroft, and is popular for its hiking trails and scenic views.

For a day trip, I would recommend hiking to the top of Ferris Provincial Park. The hike is about 3 kilometers long and takes approximately 2 hours.

The views from the top are absolutely stunning, and you can see for miles. There are also a few other shorter trails that lead to lookout points.

dundas peak vista

31. Dundas Peak

Dundas Peak is one of the best day trips from Toronto for those who love hiking and photography. The peak is located in Hamilton, and offers stunning views of the city and the Niagara Escarpment.

The hike to the top of Dundas Peak is about 3 kilometers long and takes approximately 2 hours.

32. Kelso Conservation Area

Kelso Conservation Area is a great day trip for those who want to escape the city and enjoy some of nature. The conservation area is located in Milton, and offers hiking trails, a beach, and picnic areas.

Adventurous Day Trips From Toronto

33. eramosa karst caves.

Estimated time: 1 hr

The Eramosa Karst is a geological formation that includes over 600 caves and sinkholes. The caves are located in the city of Guelph, and many of them have been turned into walking trails.

If you are looking for an adventure, then exploring these caves is definitely for you!

nina in elora

34. Elora Gorge

Estimated time: 1 hr 30 min

The Elora Gorge is a popular spot for tubing, swimming, and hiking. The gorge is located in the town of Elora, and is a great place to spend a day in the summer.

People come from across Ontario to rent tubes and float down the rapids of the Gorge. Then they head to the Elora Mill for a lovely meal after their fun!

If you are looking to cool off on a hot day, then the Elora Gorge is the perfect day trip for you!

35. Grand River Rafting

Distance from Toronto: 115 km

Driving time: 1 hr 30 min

Grand River Rafting is a popular activity for those who love adventure. The company offers both half-day and full-day trips, depending on how much time you have.

The Grand River is located in the city of Kitchener, and is a great place to spend a day.

If you are looking to get wet and wild, then rafting down the Grand River is the perfect day trip for you!

36. Collingwood Suspension Bridge

Distance from Toronto: 145 km

Driving time : 1 hr 45 min

The Collingwood Suspension Bridge is a popular spot for hiking and photography. The bridge is located in the town of Collingwood, and is a great place to spend a day.

If you are looking for a scenic day trip, then the Collingwood suspension bridge climb is for you!

37. Hardwood Hills

Distance from Toronto: 285 km

Driving time: 3 hrs

Hardwood Hills is a popular spot for hiking, mountain biking, and skiing. The hills are located in the town of Barrie, and is a great place to spend a day on 2 wheels.

Best Winter Day Trips From Toronto

38. blue mountain village.

Distance from Toronto: 170 km

Driving time: 2 hrs

Blue Mountain Village is a popular spot for skiing, snowboarding, and shopping. The village is located in the town of Collingwood, and is a great place to spend a day in the winter.

Don’t forget to stop in at the Nordic Spa to warm up after a day on the slopes. The outdoor hot pools will help you and your muscles forget about falling off the chairlift four times in front of your friends.

If you are looking for a winter day trip, then Blue Mountain Village is the perfect place for you!

39. Horseshoe Valley

Distance from Toronto : 135 km

Driving time : 1 hr 30 min

Horseshoe Valley is a popular spot for skiing, snowboarding, and tubing. The valley is located in the town of Barrie, and is a great place to spend a day in the winter.

There are also several restaurants and bars in the area, so you can warm up with a drink after a day on the slopes.

If you are looking for a winter day trip, then Horseshoe Valley is the perfect place for you!

40. Ellicottville

Distance from Toronto : 240 km

Driving Time: 3 hrs

Ellicottville is a popular spot for skiing, snowboarding, and shopping. The town is located in the state of New York, and is a great place to spend a day in the winter.

The hills are always covered in snow, and the town is filled with quaint shops and restaurants.

If you are looking for a winter day trip, then Ellicottville is the perfect place for you!

Beach Day Trips Near Toronto

Frame 10 08 2020 07 35 43

41. The Beaches Neighbourhood

Distance from Toronto : 14 km

Driving time: 30 min

The Beaches neighbourhood is a popular spot for swimming, sunbathing, and picnicking. The neighbourhood is located in the city of Toronto, and is a great place to spend a day in the summer.

There are also several restaurants and cafes in the area, including Tori’s Bakeshop which caters to all allergies.

If you are looking for a summer day trip, then The Beaches neighbourhood is the perfect place for you!

42. Grand Bend Beach

Distance from Toronto: 225 km

Grand Bend Beach is a popular spot for swimming, sunbathing, and surfing. The beach is located in the town of Grand Bend, and is a great place to spend a day in the summer.

There are also several restaurants and cafes in the area, as well as a boardwalk that is perfect for people watching.

If you are looking for a summer day trip, then Grand Bend Beach is the perfect place for you!

sandbanks provincial park swimming

43. Sandbanks Provincial Park

Driving time: 2 hrs 30 min

Sandbanks Provincial Park is a popular spot for swimming, sunbathing, and hiking. The park is located in the town of Prince Edward County , and is a great place to spend a day in the summer.

There are also several campgrounds in the area, so you can make a weekend of it.

If you are looking for a summer day trip, then Sandbanks Provincial Park is the perfect place for you!

georgian bay islands

44. Georgian Bay

Distance from Toronto: 180 km

Georgian Bay is a great spot for swimming, sunbathing on sandy beaches, and sailing. The bay is located in the town of Midland.

wasaga beach twilight

45. Wasaga Beach

Wasaga Beach is a popular summertime destination for Toronto residents. The long sandy beach stretches for 14 km, making it the longest freshwater beach in the world.

Visitors can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, picnicking, and hiking along the Georgian Bay shoreline.

There are also several restaurants and cafes located nearby.

Cabins on the beach make this a great weekend trip as well as a day trip from Toronto.

46. Cobourg Beach

Cobourg Beach is located on Lake Ontario and offers a wide range of activities for visitors.

The beach is popular for swimming, sunbathing, and picnicking in the summer months.

There are also several walking trails nearby where you can enjoy views of the lake.

In the winter, the beach is a popular spot for ice fishing.

Wine Tasting One Day Trips From Toronto

niagara on the lake estate

47. Niagara-on-the-Lake

Distance from Toronto: 135 km

Niagara-on-the-Lake is one of the closest day trips from Toronto, and definitely one of the most popular.

It’s renowned for its wineries, Victorian architecture, and charming shops.

This picturesque town situated along the Niagara River is also a great place to try your hand at stand-up paddleboarding or kayaking .

There are dozens of wineries in Niagara-on-the-Lake, so you’ll definitely want to dedicate an entire day to exploring them. Many of the wineries offer free tastings, so it’s a great way to sample what the area has to offer without breaking the bank.

Be sure to stroll down Queen Street, which is lined with cute cafés, restaurants, and boutique shops.

And if you’re a theatre buff, you can catch a show at the Shaw Festival, which runs from April to October.

👉 This is my favourite half day winery tour!

48. Prince Edward County

Distance from Toronto: 205 km

Estimated time: 2 hrs

This is another great wine region that makes for a perfect day trip from Toronto. Prince Edward County is located on the shores of Lake Ontario and has become a popular getaway for city dwellers looking to escape the hustle and bustle.

The area is home to over 40 wineries, many of which offer free tastings. So if you’re a fan of wine, this is the place for you.

In addition to its wineries, Prince Edward County is also known for its beaches, art galleries, and local shops.

If you’re looking for a place to stay, there are a number of bed and breakfasts, hotels, and Airbnbs in the area.

49. Caledon

Estimated time: 1 hour

Caledon is a small town located in the headwaters of the Credit River. It’s a great place for a day trip if you’re looking to get out of the city and explore the countryside.

There are a number of cideries in Caledon, making it the perfect place to go for a cider-tasting tour. The Spirit Tree Estate Cidery is one of the most popular and offers free tastings of their award-winning ciders.

Caledon is also home to a number of farms, so be sure to stop by one of the roadside stands to pick up some fresh fruits and vegetables.

Day Trips From Toronto With Kids

50. african lion safari.

Distance from Toronto: 90 km

Driving time: 1 hr 20 min

The African Lion Safari is a popular day trip destination for families with young children.

The park is home to over 1,000 animals, including lions, tigers, giraffes, and elephants.

Visitors can take a guided tour through the park on a safari bus or go on a self-guided tour in their own vehicle.

There are also a number of shows and animal encounters that take place throughout the day.

51. Canada’s Wonderland

Distance from Toronto: 45 km

Driving time: 45 mins

Wonderland is Toronto’s largest amusement park and a great place to take the kids for a day of fun.

The park has over 200 rides and attractions, including roller coasters, water slides, and live shows.

And if that’s not enough to keep the kids entertained, there’s also a 20-acre water park, Splash Works, that’s sure to make a splash.

Shopping Day Trips Near Toronto

52. aberfoyle antique market.

Driving time : 1 hr

Aberfoyle Antique Market is a popular day trip destination for antique lovers and bargain hunters.

The market is located in an old wool mill and has over 150 vendors selling everything from furniture to vintage clothing.

53. Buffalo (New York)

Distance from Toronto: 160 km

Just a short drive from Toronto is the city of Buffalo, New York. This American city is a great place to go for a day of shopping, as it has a number of large malls and outlet stores.

If you’re looking for designer brands at a fraction of the price, be sure to check out the Fashion Outlets of Niagara Falls.

And if you’re looking for a more unique shopping experience, head to Elmwood Village, where you’ll find a number of local shops and boutiques.

Map of One Day Trips From Toronto

How many days do I need in Toronto?

You could easily spend a week in Toronto and still not see everything the city has to offer.

However, if you only have a few days, I suggest spending at least two days exploring the downtown core and its attractions and then taking a day trip or two to explore some of the other great places nearby.

When are the best times to visit Canada?

The best time to visit Canada depends on what you’re looking to do.

If you want to experience all that the country has to offer, I recommend visiting in the summer or fall .

However, if you’re looking for excellent skiing, winter can be a great time to visit as well.

Best Spring Day Trips From Toronto

Spring is a great time to visit wineries in Niagara-on-the-Lake, check out theatre in Stratford, or head to Paris for some lovely hiking near Toronto.

Best Summer Day Trips From Toronto

Summer is the perfect time to visit the beach in Wasaga Beach Provincial Park, go hiking in Algonquin Provincial Park, or take a dip in the pool at Blue Mountain Resort.

How to take day trips from Toronto without a car?

There are a number of ways to take day trips from Toronto without a car. You can take the GO Train, which offers service to many of the destinations on this list. You can also take the Greyhound bus or use ride-sharing services like Uber or Lyft.

Or consider renting a car to allow yourself more freedom from bus schedules.

Related Posts:

  • How to Get From Toronto to Niagara Falls: 7 Best Ways for an Epic Day Trip
  • 21 Best Road Trips in Ontario from Toronto: Unforgettable Places You Need to See
  • 15 Best Hotels in Toronto with Private Hot Tubs
  • The Best Toronto Food Tours: Reviews of the Top 10 for Travellers
  • 25 Jaw-Dropping Things to Do Tobermory, Ontario

Pin this for later!

toronto day 1

Canada Travel Planning Guide

🚑  Should I buy Canada travel insurance?

100% YES!  — Canada has “free” healthcare but it’s only for citizens! Foreigners visiting need travel insurance in case anything happens on their visit. I recommend World Nomads – starting at just $5 a day!

💧 Can you drink the water in Canada?

Yes  — In all major cities in Canada, you can drink the tap water. There are very few, rural areas that you can’t. However, you should never drink river or lake water anywhere in the country! I recommend a Brita Water Bottle for long hikes and backcountry camping to stay safe and hydrated.

🚙💨  Is it safe to rent a car in Canada?

Yes  — Renting a car is a necessity in most of Canada! If you want to go on road trips or adventures outside of the major cities, you’ll need to rent a car. ( Read more )

📲  Will my phone work in Canada?

Maybe  — Some American companies work in Canada, but many will not. If your phone doesn’t work in Canada, I recommend getting a Canadian SIM card so you can get around and stay in contact with loved ones. We don’t have a lot of free WIFI in Canada, so you’ll need your phone for maps.

🏩  What’s the best way to book my Canada accommodations?

My go-to for Canadian hotels is Booking.com . For hostels, I use Hostel World . If you want a home-y feeling, check out VRBO (which is cheaper and safer than Airbnb).

Or get free accommodations with Trusted Housesitters!

✈️  What’s the best site to buy Canada flights?

For finding cheap Canadian flights, I recommend  Skyscanner .

🎫  Do I need a visa for Canada?

Likely Not  — US, UK, and EU passport holders don’t need Canadian visas. However, some other countries do ( check here! ). And if you plan to stay for more than 4 weeks (an average tourist visa length), you will need to look into visas to live in Canada.

Nina Clapperton is the founder of Nina Out and About. She has lived in 18 countries in the past 10 years, explored more than 30 countries, and has done most of it solo. A Canadian native, she also shares her favourite things to do in the True North. She helps over 100,000 people per month plan their expat adventures and Canadian trips.

Want to move abroad, but don’t know how to start?

Get an expert’s tips & tricks, pick which country to move to – and do it.

hot tours from toronto

Going Awesome Places

Detailed itineraries + travel guides

16 Popular and Secret Weekend Trips from Toronto

Last Updated January 10, 2024 William Tang

You are here: Home » Attractions & Experiences » 16 Popular and Secret Weekend Trips from Toronto

Whether you’re visiting the GTA or living in the city, there are surprisingly a lot of options when it comes to weekend trips from Toronto.  In this guide, you’ll find both popular and hidden secret Toronto getaways that can be done in the spring, summer, fall, or winter whether for a day or the full weekend.  With each trip, you’ll learn the details of what you can do there, where to eat, activities to book, and how to get there.

Simply put, Ontario is yours to discover and so let’s jump into those best weekend trips from Toronto.

Read more about Toronto

  • Best patios in Toronto in the summer
  • One day road trip itinerary around Toronto
  • Provincial Parks to see Ontario Fall colours
  • Best easy hike trails around the GTA
  • Amazing parks in Vaughan you probably never knew about
  • Curling clubs in Toronto that offer sheet rentals

Where to stay in Toronto?

  • If you’re looking for a place to stay in Toronto , I highly recommend 1 King West for it’s location, historic suites, and price in comparison with the other big hotels in the city. Make sure you’re also familiar with hotel corporate codes in case you’re eligible!

Table of Contents

Jump straight to the weekend trip ideas from Toronto of interest.

Here's what we're covering:

Hilton Falls

Dundas valley, grey sauble county falls, wasaga beach, blue mountain, niagara-on-the-lake, niagara falls, prince edward county, bruce peninsula and tobermory, kitchener-waterloo, kawartha lakes.

  • Ferris Provincial Park
  • Point Pelee National Park

Frequently asked questions

Best weekend trips from toronto.

tobermory fish and chips is one reason to take weekend trips from toronto

Chasing Waterfalls

Let’s start off with one that is not so obvious.  We all know the BIG waterfalls that are easy to get to from Toronto but there are actually plenty of hidden waterfalls scattered all around Ontario that are only a couple of hours drive from Toronto.  There are a couple of regions of waterfalls that I first introduced in my day trip idea from Toronto so it’s worth breaking them down.

hilton falls near milton ontario

Right off the 401 and near the city of Milton is a conservation area that you might’ve passed by many times but never knew was there.  This is part of a Conservation Halton park with a great escape to nature and an athlete’s paradise with its 33.5 km of trail.

The Niagara Escarpment and flowing river is the perfect formula for a waterfall and what makes this unique is that remnants of old Mill Ruins can be seen right alongside the thunderous water.

Whether you’re hiking, trail running, mountain biking, or just walking the dog, the trails here are colour-coded and well-marked.  Other activities include bonfires for s’more making near the falls, horseback riding, geocaching, and tons of photography opportunities.

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW

Address: 4985 Campbellville Road, Milton, ON

Hours: Daily 8:30AM – 9:30PM

Time to drive: 41 minutes

Website: Hilton Falls

  • Adult (15-64) $7.00
  • Senior (65 & over) $6.00
  • Child (5-14) $5.25
  • Child (4 & under) Free

Highlights:  

  • The Waterfalls
  • The Mill Ruins
  • Horseback Riding
  • Recreation Trails
  • Bonfire at the Falls

Nearby attractions:

  • Rattlesnake Point Conservation
  • Springridge Farm
  • Halton County Radial Railway
  • Terre Bleu Lavender Farm

Good restaurants nearby:  

  • Memphis BBQ & Wicked Wings
  • Goodfellas Wood Oven Pizza

Where to stay overnight:  

  • Best Western Milton
  • Home2 Suites Milton

READ THE REVIEWS

dundas valley waterfalls hamilton ontario

Carved out of glaciers some 10,000 years ago, Dundas Valley Conservation Area is one of Southern Ontario’s gems and natural treasures.  There is much to see and do here including a rich mix of plants, wildlife, geological formations, meadows, and streams.  The area features 1,200-hectares Carolinian forests, colourful meadows, cold-water streams, stunning geological formations and an array of rare plants, birds and wildlife.

dundas valley hiking in weekend trips from toronto

The environment is so naturally rich here that it is actually designated by UNESCO as a World Biosphere Reserve since is part of the Niagara Escarpment.

Like Hilton Falls, this conservation area is extremely well maintained with its three main trail loops that are easy to navigate and explore.  Whether you’re here to walk your dog, mountain bike or just putting your legs to good use, it’s another great way to spend time away from the big city.

To start your trip, start with the Trail Centre which is housed in a replica of a Victoria train station.  Inside you’ll find food concession, brochures, maps, and interpretive displays.  You’ll be be able to orientate yourself here and it’s also the starting point for guided hikes and workshops.

The network of trail you’ll find here, one of which is the Heritage Trail that extends into the world famous Bruce Trail.  Along the way, you’ll encounter two other waterfalls – Canterbury and Sherman.  They may not be the thunderous kind but they evokes a certain a tranquil serenity as the water roll down jagged edges of rock.

Read next: We have a full guide of the best waterfalls of Hamilton that you should check out.

Address: 650 Governors Road, Dundas, ON, L9E 5E3

Hours: Daily sunrise to sundown

  • Off Season Hours: September to June Weekdays:  Concession closed, building open for washrooms from 8:30AM to 3PM Weekends:  8:30 AM to 4 PM

Time to drive: 1 hour

Website:   Dundas Valley Conservation Area

  • Vehicle $10
  • Vehicle Senior (65 & over) $8
  • Equestrians – per horse $15
  • Bus (school groups) $175
  • Bus (non-school groups) $275
  • Note:  Photo permits are required for photo shoots
  • Hermitage Ruins
  • Griffin House
  • Dundern Castle
  • HMCS Haida National Historic Site
  • Exotic Supercar Test Drive
  • Hamilton Waterfalls & Bluffs Hiking Tour
  • Hamilton Scavenger Hunt
  • Spring Sushi
  • Detour Cafe
  • Homewood Suites Hamilton
  • Sandman Hotel Hamilton

inglis falls in grey county ontario for weekend getaways from toronto

If you’re looking for a bit of a road trip adventure, this might be the weekend trip from Toronto you’re looking for.  In Grey Sauble County (or simply Grey County) there are a number of waterfalls you can encounter on your drive up north along Highway 10 towards Owen Sound.

These waterfalls are perfect for those looking for short hikes and impressively unique waterfalls.

The ones you want to see are:

  • Eugenia Falls
  • Hoggs Falls
  • Inglis Falls
  • Indian Falls

I won’t spoil too much for you so make sure to add this to your list of weekend getaways whether with a car or if you’re looking to build an itinerary with your RV rental in Ontario .

Address: 

  • Eugenia Falls – County Road 13, Eugenia, ON N0C 1E0
  • Hoggs Falls – Lower Valley Rd, Flesherton, ON N0C 1E0
  • Inglis Falls – Georgian Bluffs, ON N4K 5N6
  • Indian Falls – 318614, Grey Rd 1, Owen Sound, ON N4K 5N4

Time to drive: 2.5 hours to get to the farthest Indian Falls

Website: Grey Sauble Conservation

  • Entrance is free however there is a parking fee of $6.00 per vehicle ($8.00 at Inglis on weekends – from May long weekend to Labour Day Weekend & Thanksgiving Weekend) using the Mack Meters method
  • Snowshoeing
  • Tom Thompson Art Gallery
  • Grey Roots Museum & Archives
  • Casero Kitchen Table
  • Shorty’s Grill
  • Kettles Back Home Cooking
  • Quality Inn Owen Sound
  • Travelodge by Wyndham Owen Sound

REVIEWS OF INDIAN FALLS

Collingwood

The cottage are region of Collingwood is a popular getaway destination for locals living in the GTA and beyond as it’s easy to drive to, has an abundance of things to do, places to eat, and most importantly, has a large beach that’s perfect for those hot summer days.

wasaga beach summer time

Wasaga Beach is a long and sandy beach that lies at the southern end of Ontario’s Georgian Bay.  It is in fact the longest freshwater beach in the world at 14km.  Come here for swimming, walking along its trails, suntanning, and its connection with nature.

Address: 11-22nd St. North, Wasaga Beach, L9Z 2V9

Hours: 24/7

Time to drive: 1 hour 40 minutes

Website: Wasaga Beach

Price: Beach is free but parking lots are paid

  • Visitor centre
  • Recreation trails
  • Wasaga 500 Go Karts
  • Nancy Island Historic Site
  • Wasaga Beach Farmers Market
  • Catch 22 Fresh Market Grill
  • Grandma’s Beach Treats
  • Pizza Dee’s
  • Saga Resort
  • Oasis by the Bay

blue mountain in the summer

The other most popular place to visit in Collingwood is Blue Mountain resort .  In the winter, the mountain transforms to the region’s tallest mountain for snow sports such as skiing and snowboarding.  In the summer, there are plenty of activities on the resort grounds and surrounding areas to take advantage of its location along the Niagara Escarpment.  The most notable adventure activity is Ridge Runner Mountain Coaster .

Address: 190 Gord Canning Dr, The Blue Mountains, ON L9Y 1C2

Time to drive: 2 hours

Website: Blue Mountain Resort

  • Canopy tree top trekking
  • Mountain coaster
  • Golf course
  • Scandinave Spa
  • Side Launch Brewing Company
  • Ridge Runner Mountain Coaster
  • Georgian Hills Vineyards
  • Plunge! Aquatic Center
  • Scenic Caves Nature Adventures
  • FireHall Pizza Co
  • The Dam Pub Gastropub
  • Blue Mountain Resort
  • The Westin Trillium House Blue Mountain

niagara on the lake main street horse carriages

The famed wine region of Ontario is one of the most magical places to visit and while staying here overnight is preferable, it’s certainly possible to have a memorable weekend day trip.  Matched with the beauty of the flower-lined streets, cute boutique shops, and historic towns are the endless number of world-famous vineyards, the Shaw Festival , and Fort George .

niagara on the lake winery bike tour

NOTL for short, the epitome of a perfect Saturday or Sunday itinerary includes renting a bicycle, riding out to a winery for a tasting, walking along the main street, having a fabulous dinner, and slurping on ice cream from Moo .  More trip ideas can be found in this 3 day Niagara Falls itinerary .

While you’re planning your trip here, make sure to check the Niagara-on-the-Lake calendar for events.

niagara glen park fall colours aerial view with diagonal cut of water and tree foliage

When you’re here, also make sure not to miss out on one of my favourite hiking trails in the region, Niagara Glen .  From here, you get an incredible view of the Niagara Gorge.  In the Fall, the colours are absolutely stunning here.

Another area adjacent to NOTL you need to include in your trip is Queenston Heights Park, Whirlpool Aero Car, and White Water Walk.  Many of these spots you can find in our Fall Colours in Niagara video .

Time to drive: 1.5 hours

Website: Niagara-on-the-Lake

  • Historic town
  • Shaw Festival
  • Fine dining
  • Parks Canada
  • Recreational Trails
  • Peller Estates
  • Wayne Gretzky Estates
  • Reif Estate Winery
  • Konzelmann Estate Winery
  • Jackson-Triggs Winery
  • Fort George
  • Wine-tasting Tour with Lunch or Dinner
  • Cycle and Wine-Tasting Tour
  • Half-Day Winery Tour
  • The Olde Angel Inn
  • Hob Nob Restaurant
  • Prince of Wales Niagara on the Lake
  • Queens Landing

GET STARTED HERE

niagara falls weekend trip from toronto

Now this is the big elephant in the room right?  Niagara Falls is commonly referred to as the 8th Wonder of the World, or at least Canadians would love for it to be declared with that title.  What more can I say about the 168,000 cubic metres of water that thunders down the edge of the Niagara escarpment as a plume of cool mist emerges from Horseshoe Falls.  It’s truly a natural icon in Canada.

niagara falls hornblower cruise

Without a doubt the Canadian side is the best side.  What makes the area a perfect weekend trip from Toronto is that there are so many ways to see and enjoy the Horseshoe, American, and Bridal Veil Falls.  You can see the Falls up-close from the Hornblower Cruise , in a cave as part of Journey Behind the Falls , or White Water Walk .  Just be prepared to get wet!

Beyond the falls themselves, there’s so much more entertainment to discover here whether it’s the zany Clifton Hills , the casinos, water parks, amusement park, gardens, and parks.

When planning your trip to Niagara Falls, consider the Wonder Pass to make your life easier with you and your family.  With advanced purchase, you get one-day access to Journey Behind the Falls, Niagara’s Fury, the Butterfly Conservatory, and Floral Showcase.  You’ll also get two-day access to WEGO and Falls Incline transit and discounts to local shops and eateries.

If you’re looking for something organized, there’s the small group half-day tour or Gems of Niagara if you’re already in Niagara Falls or the full day tour from Toronto if you don’t feel like driving.

niagara falls whirlpool jet boat tours discount code promotion savings

While Niagara Falls isn’t far from Toronto, it is always a winner as a weekend getaway.  Make it better by staying at one of the hotels with tower views of the falls.

Website: Niagara Falls

  • Horseshoe Falls
  • Observation points
  • Clifton Hills
  • Behind the Falls
  • Hornblower Cruise Voyage to the Falls boat tour (Maid of the Mist but on the Canadian side)
  • Zipline to the Falls (or night time illuminated version )
  • Whirlpool Jetboat Tours
  • Niagara Falls helicopter tour
  • Niagara Falls Skywheel
  • Illuminations or Fireworks cruise
  • Marineland day pass
  • Hop-on-hop-off antique double decker bus
  • Table Rock House Restaurant
  • Blue Line Diner
  • Napoli Ristorante and Pizzeria
  • Paris Crepes Cafe
  • Hilton Niagara Falls Fallsview
  • Embassy Suites Niagara Falls Fallsview

parsons brewing company prince edward county

On the north shore of Lake Ontario is a county characterized by a charming rural lifestyle with tasteful urban flavour.  Located only 2 hours away from the GTA, you come here for a weekend day to take advantage of the region’s sandy beaches and dunes, beautiful slice of nature, wineries, breweries, and a town of creative and passionate folks.

Prince Edward County is known as “The County” by the locals but may be more modernly called, simply PEC.  What started off as an expanse of agricultural land, the past few decades has been a renaissance of developing must-visit highlights for local and international visitors.  What makes it such a gem is that you wouldn’t know it from driving by along Highway 401 as most people travelling east would continue to Belleville and onwards to Kingston.

In PEC, you definitely want to start off visiting a few wineries.  The most popular ones TerraCello Winery , ThreeDog Winery , and Sandbanks Estate Winery which is known for their Baco Noir .

parsons brewing company lunch weekend trips from toronto

From there, make sure to hit up my favourite Parsons Brewing Company , which has a fun, contemporary vibe of fresh hop creations, and a fantastic selection of foods to pair with your flight of beers.  There’s a ton of sprawling open space here at the farm and great for kids as well.

Another main attraction in Prince Edward County is Sandbanks Provincial Park .  With the world’s largest baymouth barrier dune formation, you have three sandy beaches that are among the best in Canada with their shallow waters and gentle drop off.  The large sand dune hills are also awesome for some sliding fun.

In the towns of Picton and Wellington make sure to look out for great locally-made goods and farm-to-table restaurants that serve with locally-grown ingredients.

If you come here during the right time of the year, Prince Edward County Lavender is another highlight that you have to visit.  Better yet, plan to come during the Lavender Festival so make sure to check the PEC event calendar .

On your way out, don’t forget about the Glenora Ferry which is an alternative way to get to Kingston as opposed to hopping back onto the 401.

Lastly, if you’re a fan of The Drake Hotel in Toronto, their second property is here and is the Drake Devonishire .

Website: Prince Edward County

  • Sandbanks Provincial Park
  • Boutique shops
  • Art workshops
  • Small-town charm
  • TerraCello Winery
  • ThreeDog Winery
  • Sandbanks Estate Winery
  • Parsons Brewing Company
  • Glenora Ferry
  • Prince Edward County Lavender
  • Agrarian Bistro Bar
  • East & Main Bistro
  • Blumen Garden Bistro
  • Drake Devonshire
  • The Village Suites

BOOK YOUR PEC ACTIVITY

tobermory bruce peninsula grotto

Another jewel of Ontario is the entirety of the Bruce Peninsula.  Stretching between Georgian Bay up to Lake Huron, the turquoise clear waters, stunning coastal landscape, are something you just need to see in person.  It is in fact part of a UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve.

A weekend day trip getaway to the Bruce Peninsula might seem a little far but it’s totally do-able.  From Toronto, you take Hwy 10 and then Hwy 6 all the way up north until you reach the very end which happens to be the town of Tobermory.

Read next: We did an amazing weekend in Tobermory and Bruce Peninsula that will give you an idea of how to plan a trip up to here.

flower pot island tobermory

Tobermory is where your adventure starts.  It’s a charming town that’s packed with local artisan shops, fish & chip shacks, bars with patios, and live music.  This is also where you’ll find the harbor where you’ll be able to get on the thrilling Jet Boat Flowerpot Island Express by Blue Heron Cruises that takes you out to Flower Pot Island  and along the way see Big Tub Lighthouse, and two 19th century shipwrecks.

Flower Pot Island is a full day on its own.  There are several trails to follow here that follow a rugged terrain and takes you out to the the flower pot rock formations, picnic shelters on the shoreline next to Beachy Cove, areas to swim and snorkel, light station and lightkeeper’s cottage.

clear waters of bruce peninsula

The other place you have to visit is part of Bruce Peninsula National Park .  The renowned trails are a must-do but since you’ll only have one day to see it all, focus your efforts on getting to the park’s famous Grotto.  This area is known for its pristine waters and shoreline sea cave where the adventurous ones will go in for a jump and swim.  Note that the parking day pass to the park is $11.70.  Since this is a national park, you’ll be able to use the Parks Canada Discovery Pass .

For those looking for a bus tour from Toronto, there’s this tour of Tobermory and Flower Pot Island in a day that you can consider.

Time to drive: 3.5 hours

Website: Bruce Peninsula National Park and Flower Pot Island

  • Unique geological formations
  • Maritime history
  • Recreational trails
  • Snorkelling and diving
  • Flower Pot Island
  • Bruce Peninsula National Park
  • Bayside Astronomy
  • Greig’s Caves
  • Lions Head Provincial Nature Reserve
  • Shipwreck Lee’s of Tobermory
  • Tobermory Brewing Company and Grill
  • Crowsnest Pub
  • Grandview Motel Tobermory
  • Adventure the Bruce Inn

BOOK TOBERMORY ACTIVITIES

st jacobs farmers market kitchener waterloo

Home to my alma mater, the Kitchener-Waterloo region doesn’t always get the recognition it deserves but there are a couple of hidden secrets here that only those in-the-know will tell you.

A quick day trip to the KW has a few key highlights that are quite unique.  The attractions you’ll find here mostly centre on the international communities that have grown here.

st jacobs farmer market interior weekend getaway from toronto

The first comes from the large Mennonite community that goes all the way back to the 1790s when they immigrated here from the US, settling on the vast area of farmland and continue to do so today.  While they are easily recognizable by their traditional black suits and broad-brimmed hats for men, and ankle-length dresses and matching bonnets for women, they aren’t to be confused with the Amish.

To best understand their history and faith, the Mennonite Central Committee has an interpretation centre in the village of St. Jacobs, just north of Waterloo.  It’s at St. Jacobs where you’ll find many Mennonite stores selling farm-cultivated produce and goods.  Of particular interest is their maple syrup which is stupendously good.  The Mennonites are well-known for their woodworking skills so anyone in need of hand-crafted furniture would do well to visit here.  The area has grown to encompass the St. Jacob Market District which now also includes a farmer’s market, market road antiques, and small outlet mall.

The second large community in Kitchener-Waterloo is the German community.  Every October, huge tents are set up downtown for Oktoberfest and is billed as Canada’s Greatest Bavarian Festival, and you’ll be surprised to hear that this is the second-largest Oktoberfest in the world.

If you can’t time your visit to come during Oktoberfest, the Heidelberg Restaurant Tavern & Motel is as authentic as it gets when it comes to a German-style restaurant.  Its signature dishes include Pork Hock which is a giant dish of smoked pork knuckles or Schweinshaxe in German.

In addition to these two distinct cultural experiences, Kitchener-Waterloo is a growing scene for craft beer.

Time to drive: 1 hour 10 minutes

Website: St. Jacob’s Market District and KW Oktoberfest

  • Mennonite Village
  • Authentic German food
  • St. Jacob’s Market
  • The Mennonite Story
  • Block Three Brewing Co
  • Descendants Beer and Beverage
  • Kitchener Let’s Roam Treasure Hunt
  • Heidelberg Restaurant Tavern & Motel
  • Borealis Grille & Bar
  • Bao Sandwich Bar
  • Anna Mae’s Bakery and Restaurant
  • Quality Inn Kitchener
  • Kitchener Inn and Suites

port perry main street

This community of 9,500 may not be on the top of your list, but trust me, there’s more than meets the eye.

Located on the shores of Lake Scugog, Port Perry is seen as the gateway to a region known for its lake adventures but looking inwards, the city itself is rapidly growing whether it’s the historic Downtown Port Perry, or the parks that surround the lake.

In the summer, there are a number of festivals in Port Perry including the Mississauga First Nation PowWow , the Highland Games, the Dragon Boat Races, StreetFest, and the city’s own annual fair.  Downtown is becoming a small foodie paradise as well with its selection of bakeries, cafes, and restaurants.  On Queen Street, the main artery, you’ll marvel at Victorian-era architecture while shopping at unique boutique shops.

For those that are avid fishermen, the region offers something different for both winter and summer.  In the winter months, Lake Scugog freezes over and you’ll find many ice-fishing huts over the lake.  In the summer, you can easily take 1 of the 4 municipal ramps to take your boat out on the lake.

From Port Perry, you can also head out to the Great Blue Heron Casino where you’re guaranteed to have a great time whether you’re a high roller or you play the penny slots.  Make sure to try the Heron Burger here.

Time to drive: 55 minutes

Website: Discover Port Perry

  • Lake recreation
  • Historic downtown
  • Scugog Shores Historical Museum
  • Great Blue Heron Casino
  • Ocala Winery
  • Palmer Park
  • Nature’s Bounty
  • Old Flame Brewing Co.
  • The Piano Inn and Cafe
  • Pickles & Olives Bistro
  • Heath Haven Bed & Breakfast
  • Utica Guest House

kawartha lakes buzzard lake

There is a chain of lakes 90 minutes northeast of Toronto that create the most remarkable outdoor getaway.   With beautiful lakes, meandering rivers, rolling farmland, large park spaces to choose from, and well-preserved wilderness, there’s a panoramic beauty here that is why this is another popular weekend destination.  While the Kawarthas span several different counties including Peterborough, it’s the simplified marketing term for the area similar to Muskoka.

The Kawarthas are best known to be part of cottage country.  With many beautiful properties dotting the Trent-Severn Waterway , the overnight travellers will definitely be settling in one of these to relax on the dock, go fishing, or explore the local towns.

balsam lake provincial park reading

A different way to see the lakes is to actually be on the lake.  For fishing enthusiasts, taking a boat out is the obvious choice but there’s something else you can consider.  Did you know that the Kawartha Lakes is the Houseboat Capital of Ontario ?  Rent a houseboat with a company like R&R Houseboat Rentals for the day or more.  What makes the Kawarthas attractive is their tightly connected system of locks as you jump from one lake to the next.

kawartha dairy ice cream

Another fantastic option to consider are the wealth of provincial parks and conservation areas by the lake.  My particular favourite is Balsam Lake Provincial Park .  They have plenty of day-use space with the beach, easy hiking trails, canoeing, birding, and biking.  Overnights at the campsite are also a great way to spend the weekend here.  Otherwise there are the hotels you can see down below.

Lastly, on your way in or out, you must visit the Kawartha Dairy store in Lindsay as they have the best ice cream in Ontario.

Time to drive: 1 hour 36 minutes

Website: Kawartha Lakes

  • Interconnected Lakes
  • Lock system
  • Small towns
  • Best ice cream
  • Camping and cottages
  • Kawartha Settlers Village
  • Horseless Carriage Museum
  • Balsam Lake Provincial Park
  • Ken Reid Conservation Area
  • Lock 35 – Rosedale
  • Kawartha Dairy
  • The Cat & The Fiddle Lindsay
  • Just for the Halibut
  • Durham Cafe
  • Ramada by Wyndham Lindsay
  • Days Inn & Suites by Wyndham Lindsay

arrowhead provincial park ice trail

This is the heart of Ontario’s cottage country and where everyone flocks to in the summer for their cottage residences by the lake.  What makes it so popular is because of its proximity to Toronto and wealth of the quintessential Canadian outdoors – surrounded by 1,600 lakes, painters’ dream rocky landscape, rivers, beaches, rolling green countryside, it’s a lakeside retreat that everyone dreams about.

However, as much as it’s great for a week-long getaway, you can still enjoy the province’s premiere cottage country in a day.  You just need to know where to go.

huntsville ontario aerial weekend getaway from toronto

Huntsville is considered to be the gateway into Muskoka and this is where you’ll start.   In this town there are several attractions to check out.  There’s the Group of Seven Outdoor Gallery which showcases 30 large-scale murals that have been reproduced and scattered throughout town.  These famous painters spent much of their time here and it really showcases the beauty of this region.

Right outside of town is Arrowhead Provincial Park .  It’s a great day-use camp with sandy beaches and a ton of incredible trails but where they really shine is in the winter with their 1.3 km outdoor ice trail and tubing hill.

algonquin twin lakes trail during winter

From here, you’re right by the entrance into the famed Algonquin Provincial Park .  The park itself is massive so you’ll have to pick one or two spots to visit near the West Gate.  Oxtongue River Picnic Grounds is a great place for a packed lunch or you can head straight for a hike.  I recommend Two Rivers Trail (easy) or Whiskey Rapids Trail (moderate)

South of Huntsville and great on your way back home is Sugarbush Hill Maple Farm which is a great opportunity to learn, taste, and purchase that Canadian liquid gold.

Anyone who’s interested in beer and wine will do well to visit Muskoka Brewery and Johnston’s Cranberry Marsh & Muskoka Lakes Winery .

If you’re interested in seeing Algonquin more thoroughly as a day trip, there are Algonquin Provincial Park day tours from Toronto or if you’re interested in multi-day tours, these activities can get you started.

Lastly, the SS Bagwin Lake of Bays cruise is quite the remarkable trip that includes a 2.5 hour trip from Dorset to Port Cunnington Lodge where you’ll have a 3 course dinner before returning back to Dorset.

Time to drive: 2 hour 18 minutes

Website: Discover Muskoka

  • Famous provincial parks
  • Breweries and wineries
  • Lake cruises
  • Algonquin Provincial Park
  • Arrowhead Provincial Park
  • Group of Seven Outdoor Gallery
  • Sugarbush Hill Maple Farm
  • Treetop Trekking Huntsville
  • Muskoka Brewery
  • Muskoka Lakes Winery
  • SS Bagwin Lake of Bays Cruise
  • That Little Place by the Lights
  • 3 Guys & A Stove
  • The Artisan House
  • Red Maple Inn and Suites
  • Deerhurst Resort

ferris provincial park

If you’re looking to head out east for a day-camping experience, Ferris Provincial Park is an excellent choice.  Located in Campbellford, Ontario, it is situated along the banks of Trent River.

ferris provincial park hiking trail

From the park, you have access to the suspension bridge above Ranney Gorge.  From here, you’ll get unobstructed views of Trent River, Ranney Falls, and an old tannery.  Just be careful if you’re afraid of heights!

The park also has several hiking trails to choose from, most of which will take you to or close to Ranney Falls and the Trent River gorge.  Along the way, also expect to see stone fences and rare flora and fauna.  The hikes to look for are the Ranney Falls, Ranney Gorge, and Drumlin Trail Systems.

If you’re staying overnight, the provincial park has excellent camping facilities.   You can also stay in Campbellford.

Address: 474 County Rd. 8, Campbellford, K0L 1L0

Website: Ferris Provincial Park

Price:  Pricing is by vehicle

  • Regular: $12.25
  • Senior: $9.75
  • Disabilities: $6.00
  • Suspended bridge
  • Toonie Monument
  • Church Key Brewing Company
  • Dooher’s Bakery
  • Antonia’s Bistro
  • Caper’s Tap House
  • Emilyville Inn
  • Campbellford River Inn

marsh board walk point pelee national park

This one’s a little further away from Toronto but if you’re up for a bit of an adventure, you can consider doing this stretch day-trip to the most southern point of mainland Canada or stay overnight to truly maximize what you can see and do here.

Point Pelee National Park is an ecologically diverse park that has a plethora of natural wonders to be discovered whether in the summer or winter.  70% of the park is composed of marsh that is and 21% is forest.

point pelee national park most stouthern point

One of the highlights is to visit the southern most point and you can visit there by shuttle which is offered between April and October.  From here, you can see wild flowers, local birds, dragonfly, and monarch migrations.   In the winter months, you can drive down here.

There are numerous hikes you can do in the old Carolinian forest.  There are simple hikes like the Marsh Boardwalk (1 km loop) that take you through the Ramsar Wetlands, the DeLaurier Homestead & Trail (1.2 km loop) to learn about the land’s history with the First Nations,  the Botham Tree Trail , the Tilden Woods Trail (1 km loop), or there’s the Woodland Nature Trail (2.75 km loop) .

Other activities you can enjoy while you’re out here is cycling, geocaching, canoeing, kayaking, and swimming.

The park also offers guided tours.  They have a Junior Naturalist Program in the summer for kids 7 to 11.  They also have a Freighter Canoe Tour, Wildflower Walk, and Family Migration Hike.

Point Pelee is not to be confused with Pelee Island which can be reached by ferry .

Lastly, since this is a national park, you can use your Parks Canada Discovery Pass for free access.

Address: 1118 Point Pelee Drive, Leamington ON N8H 3V4

Hours: Click here for the full hours.

Website: Point Pelee National Park

Price:  

  • Adult: $7.90
  • Senior: $6.90
  • Family: $16.00
  • Adult: $6.10
  • Senior: $5.10
  • Family: $12
  • Natural landscapes
  • Water activities
  • Leamington Municipal Marina
  • Pelee Island Heritage Centre
  • Pelee Island Winery
  • Birdies Perch
  • Freddy’s
  • Lakeside Bakery Deli Cafe
  • Point Pelee National Park oTENTik Yurts
  • Talbot Trail Inn & Suites
  • Best Western Plus Leamington

buffalo canalside downtown day trip from toronto

Last but not least is are our friendly neighbours to the south.  Buffalo is just across the border from Niagara Falls and is a great option as a day trip.  While it won’t be enough to truly see the entire city, there’s plenty of time to get a feel for what that revitalization of Buffalo that I experienced all those years ago is all about.

At Buffalo’s core, this is a city that has a glorious past and one that has seen tougher times but is on a new trajectory of growth.  This can be seen from the examples of art deco in its architecture including the City Hall .  Another piece of interesting architecture is the Frank Lloyd Wright’s Martin House .

The best examples of revitalization can be seen from the RiverWorks , the waterfront that’s transformed into an entertainment complex as a venue for skating, hockey, curling, concerts, dining, bars, and concessions.  Canalside is adjacent to RiverWorks and closer to the downtown core.  Here, you’ll have access to waterfront views, public park space, and event venue space for things like summer concerts.

albright knox art museum canoe sculpture

The Albright-Knox Art Gallery and  Theodore Roosevelt Inaugural National Historic Site are two highlights for visitors.

If you’re looking for something with a bit more adventure, check out the ziplines at the abandoned grain elevators or paddleboard the Buffalo River.

When it comes to food, Watson’s Chocolate and and Anchor Bar are classic institutions in the city.  That said, some of the best hops are had at Resurgence Bar .

Of course, if you’re primarily interested in shopping and checking out the sights on the American side of Niagara Falls, there’s always that too!  Also, don’t forget to check out Fort Niagara and the lesser known Buffalo wine trail .

If you like what you see in your planning, add a day or two to your trip to make it a full weekend or long weekend!

Website: Visit Buffalo

  • Architecture
  • Entertainment
  • Local shopping
  • Outlet shopping
  • American Niagara Falls
  • Frank Lloyd Wright’s Martin House
  • Albright-Knox Art Gallery
  • Theodore Roosevelt Inaugural National Historic Site
  • Buffalo City Hall
  • Old Fort Niagara
  • Fashion Outlets of Niagara Falls
  • Zipline at RiverWorks
  • Wings Beer and More Bike and Foodie Tour
  • Best of Buffalo on Bike
  • New Buffalo Foodie Experience
  • Resurgence Brewing Company
  • Watson’s Chocolate
  • Pearl Street Grill & Brewery
  • Hilton Garden Inn Buffalo Downtown
  • Courtyard by Marriott Canalside

ACTIVITIES IN BUFFALO

Whether you’re looking for a weekend trip from Toronto or just building your own itinerary for your visit to the Greater Toronto Area and Ontario, I’d love to hear from you about whether you agree with this list or have questions.  Drop a comment down below!

Once you’re outside of the GTA, public transportation options become more limited. It may be possible to use extended transportation in the Great Golden Horseshoe through GO Transit , however a car is highly recommended for the trips on this list. There are many locations to rent a car in the city.

Yes, it is quite easy to rent a car, whether it’s through the major car rental companies or car sharing companies such as Turo. Make sure to take advantage of car rental coupon codes when renting a car.

Summer is the best time overall to do weekend trips from Toronto but this is also the busiest time of the year, especially during school holiday. This is why spring and autumn are great times to explore outside of the city especially when you factor in new blooms and the changing of leaves.

What you should read next

  • A 3 Day Niagara Falls Itinerary That Goes Beyond Just The Falls
  • Top 15 Niagara Falls Wine Tours
  • 3 Wineries to Visit on the Niagara Wine Trail
  • Guide to 11 of the Best Waterfalls of Hamilton
  • 24 Hour Toronto Itinerary

About William Tang

William Tang is the Chief of Awesome behind the award-winning Going Awesome Places which is focused on outdoor adventure, and experiential travel. His true passion lies in telling stories, inspiring photography and videos, and writing detailed itineraries and travel guides. He is a member of Travel Media Association of Canada (TMAC), Society of American Travel Writers (SATW), Adventure Travel Trade Association (ATTA), and Travel Massive. He has also been featured in publications such as Reader's Digest, Entrepreneur, Men's Journal, and Haute Living. Make sure to learn more about William Tang to find out his story and how Going Awesome Places started.

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Jennifer Nicol Colwell says

September 24, 2020 at 2:26 AM

Thanks for this great guide on Weekend trip from Toronto. Next time, I am going to explore Niagara Falls, Buffalo, and other spots.

Will Tang says

September 24, 2020 at 10:38 AM

Thanks for stopping by! Yes, Niagara Falls is always a winner but make sure to look out for some of the hidden gems like Niagara Glen Gorge!

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Must Do Canada

The Best Things to Do in Canada

Weekend Getaways From Toronto

July 26, 2022 By Matthew G. Bailey 3 Comments

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Things to do in Toronto

Canada’s largest city is a great place to explore. From major league sports to world-class museums and attractions, there are loads of fun things to do in Toronto . However, sometimes we all need a road trip, and thankfully there are lots of weekend getaways from Toronto.

From world-famous destinations like Niagara Falls to cultural hotspots, rural areas, camping opportunities, and ski resorts, there are so many things to do within a five-hour radius of the big city.

Whether you’re a local looking for something new or a visitor looking for more things to do outside of Toronto, we’ve got you covered with the best weekend getaways from Canada’s largest city.

Planning your weekend getaways from Toronto last minute?

Below are some of the top tours, hotels, and more! Don’t forget to plan ahead when considering your weekend getaways from Toronto!

🇨🇦 Top Activities and Tours near Toronto:

  • Day Trip to Niagara Falls :  Since Canada’s most famous and iconic natural attraction is so close to Toronto, we highly recommend taking a tour from Toronto to Niagara Falls. This tour includes a helicopter ride!
  • Best Helicopter Tour of Niagara Falls : It’s not too often that you’ll find yourself near one of the world’s most famous waterfalls, so why not go all out and opt for a 20-minute grand helicopter tour?
  • Private Niagara Wine Tour : This popular private wine-tasting guide will drive you and your friends around in your own vehicle, sampling wines and learning all about the wine-making process.
  • Guided Niagara Wine Tour by Bicycle : Often described as the prettiest town in Ontario, you’ll truly get to savour the region on this guided biking and wine-tasting tour, complete with two-course lunch.

things to do in niagara falls

Niagara Falls

It might be cliche but due to its popularity and beauty, we wanted to start off with Niagara Falls, one of Canada’s most famous landmarks. Niagara Falls is only 1.5 hours from Toronto, which makes it a very easy weekend getaway from Toronto.

There are also lots of things to do in Niagara Falls , including the popular Hornblower Cruise to the falls, flying over the falls in a helicopter , going on a journey behind the falls, gambling at the casinos, or staying in a romantic hotel with views over the massive waterfalls.

If you want to join a small group tour that includes live commentary, skip-the-line tickets, and more, click here to see the most popular tour in the area .

Learn more about Niagara Falls in our travel guide of the best Toronto tours .

Niagara-on-the-Lake

Also close to Niagara Falls and 1.5 hours from Toronto, Niagara-on-the-Lake is a popular weekend getaway from Toronto, especially for those who love wine. Home to some of Canada’s most famous wineries, this destination is perfect for visiting wineries and staying at historic boutique hotels. It’s also home to loads of history and colonial-style architecture as it was once the capital of Upper Canada.

If you are interested in history, don’t miss the Fort George National Historic Site, a reconstructed military base dating back to 1812. Interpreters in period costumes reenact daily life from the time period, including the firing of ancient muskets.

Interested in a tour? Click here for a popular day tour from Toronto that includes Niagara-on-the-Lake and Niagara Falls .

Where to stay? Click here for the top 4-star hotels in Niagara on the Lake .

One of the most popular Ontario road trips is Algonquin Provincial Park, which makes for an excellent weekend getaway from Toronto.

Algonquin Provincial Park

One of the most popular provincial parks in Ontario is Algonquin Provincial Park , which is only a three-hour drive north of Toronto, and yet feels worlds apart. This is the place to go if you’re looking for some peace and tranquillity, enjoying nature at its finest. Although it’s a very popular park, it’s still a great place for families, couples, groups, and solo travellers.

Some popular activities include paddling a canoe, kayaking, hiking, or just admiring the wildlife, such as the loons as they sing their toon across the lake. Accommodation options are quite varied here, including campgrounds, rustic cabins, or even luxury lodging.

Tour Offer: Click here for the best rates on a popular 6-hour canoeing adventure .

Where to stay? Click here for the best places to stay in Algonquin Provincial Park .

Wasaga Beach

Wanna visit a beach for the weekend?

Located less than two hours north of Toronto, Wasaga Beach is a lively vibrant town that truly comes alive during the summer months. It’s the longest freshwater beach in the world, and its sandy shoreline and shallow, warm waters are ideal for families and anyone wanting to take a dip.

However, there are also lots of options for hiking, biking, and walking, as well as some lovely sand dunes just back from the beach.

Ottawa, Ontario is one of the best weekend getaways from Toronto.

If you’re looking to visit another city, Ottawa is an excellent choice. Located only four hours from Toronto, there are lots of fun things to do in Ottawa, including world-class museums, Parliament Hill, an underground bunker, rafting, the Rideau Canal, and even a helicopter tour of the city . The city is one of the most beautiful in Canada and is full of history.

Ottawa is also special because it’s literally connected to Quebec by a bridge, allowing you to walk to another province. Gatineau, which is just on the other side of the river, is also home to some cool things to do, such as the Canadian Museum of History and the Nordik Spa-Nature, which is not too far away.

Another cool thing about choosing Ottawa as one of your weekend getaways from Toronto is you can also take the train if you opt not to drive. To see the best options for visiting new destinations from Toronto, check out Rome2rio .

When we’ve talked with local Ontarians, they often say that Elora is one of their favourite weekend getaways from Toronto. This is because it’s a small beautiful village with a great combination of outdoor adventures and small-town charm.

Historic Metcalfe Street is full of shops selling clothing, gifts, and local artisanal goods, most of which are housed in beautifully restored buildings from the 19th century. There are also loads of restaurants serving innovative fare with local ingredients, some of which can be enjoyed on a patio overlooking the river.

There are also many art galleries, green spaces, and the Elora Gorge where the Grand River flows through a narrow chasm with sheer walls reaching nearly 80 feet.

Muskoka is easily one of the top weekend getaways from Toronto for those seeking the lake life.

One of the most famous weekend getaways from Toronto is Muskoka, an area home to towering pine trees, beautiful lakes, and rocky shorelines.

Weekend getaways from Toronto to Muskoka usually involve water activities, such as swimming, water skiing, tubing, and jet skiing, just to name a few. Muskoka is a fairly large area, including access to a few different provincial parks such as Algonquin, Six Mile, Arrowhead, and Hardy Lake.

There’s also a wide variety of accommodation options, including everything from camping to cottage rentals and luxury resorts.

Blue Mountain in Collingwood

Whether you’re looking for weekend getaways from Toronto in the winter or in the summer, Blue Mountain in Collingwood is a popular choice.

During the winter, Blue Mountain Ski Resort offers some great downhill skiing options, not to mention cross-country skiing, snowshoeing and other winter sports. In the spring, summer, and fall, this is also a great area for hiking and mountain biking. There are also festivals throughout the warmer months and it can be a wonderful place to experience the changing colours of the fall.

Another thing people love about Blue Mountain is that it has a car-free pedestrian area at the base of the hill where you can find many shops, restaurants, and patios.

Prince Edward County

If the thought of cozy B&Bs, freshly made cheese, small chef-run exclusive restaurants, and stunning scenery gets you excited, you might want to add Prince Edward County to your bucket list.

Located just two hours from Toronto, this county is home to beautiful countryside with small towns and rolling hills, making it a great place to unwind for a weekend. For those visiting during the summer months, you’ll also want to visit Sandbanks Provincial Park, which is home to big sand dunes flowing right into the clear waters of Lake Ontario.

Click here to see the best vacation rentals in Prince Edward County .

If you like scuba diving and lake activities, Tobermory is one of the best weekend getaways from Toronto.

Anyone who loves the outdoors will want to make a visit to Tobermory high on their list. Located less than four hours from Toronto, Tobermory is a nature lovers’ paradise. Found right at the tip of the Bruce Peninsula, the Tobermory area is a spectacular place for hiking, camping, photography, biking, boating, and even scuba diving! It makes up the core part of the UNESCO Niagara Escarpment World Biosphere and is home to the picturesque Bruce Peninsula National Park and Fathom Five National Marine Park.

Like many parks, the most popular time to visit is during the warmer months when Georgian Bay’s clear waters prove tempting for a cool dip. For those wanting to scuba dive, this area is also one of the best dive spots in Canada, with many shipwrecks to explore.

If culture is more up your alley, Stratford is one of the top weekend getaways from Toronto. This is because of the sheer number of theatre options to be found, with four stages throughout the city hosting productions from the Stratford Festival. Perhaps this is why Justin Bieber is from Stratford.

The entertainment season runs from April to November and Stratford is only 150 km away from the big city, just a short drive west of Kitchener. Accommodation options include everything from local B&Bs to luxury hotels.

In addition to entertainment, Stratford is also known as the pork capital of Canada. If that’s your thing, you can purchase a pass to the city’s Bacon & Ale Trail, which includes five stops on a self-guided tour of Stratford’s best beer and bacon pairings.

Hamilton waterfalls

Located less than a one-hour drive from Toronto, Hamilton is a great place to enjoy a variety of attractions, such as the Dundurn Castle, the Art Gallery of Hamilton, and the Hamilton Farmer’s Market.

The town also has that trendy “hipster” vibe with coffee shops, local boutiques, and delicious restaurants, many of which line graffiti-laden streets. There’s also a variety of award-winning breweries to indulge in, and for those looking for some nature to intertwine with their urban prowess, there are more than 100 waterfalls in and around the area, which has led to Hamilton’s nickname as the “City of Waterfalls”.

Kingston Ontario

Kingston , which is only a three-hour drive east of Toronto, is another great weekend getaway. Known among locals as “Limestone City”, the city is rich in history and located near some of the most beautiful scenery in the province, such as the 1000 Islands, which we’ll talk about below.

Once home to the nation’s capital, it’s a great place to visit for those interested in history, with one of the most popular visits being Fort Henry, a UNESCO World Heritage Historic Site. However, it doesn’t stop there. There’s also the Kingston Penitentiary and the unique and award-winning Canada’s Penitentiary Museum, as well as the Bellevue House, which was home to Sir John A. Macdonald, Canada’s first Prime Minister and his family. 

Toss in a wonderful restaurant scene and the fact that the famous Thousand Islands Region is right next door, and it’s no trouble to see why Kingston has become a great weekend getaway from Toronto.

1000 Islands

If you love nature, islands, and paddling adventures, it’s hard to beat the Thousand Island region of Ontario. Located right next to Kingston, this amazing area, which lies on both the Canadian and US side of the St Lawrence River, has more than 1800 islands of all shapes and sizes, spread over 8,000 acres including 30 miles of walking trails. It is one of the most scenic waterways in the world, with historic houses, quaint waterfront villages, stunning holiday cottages and some interesting wildlife too.

One of the most popular ways to explore 1000 Islands is by renting a canoe or kayak, taking a cruise or renting a private boat.

Things to Do in London Ontario

London Ontario

Just a two-hour drive from Toronto is London, which is a popular university town with lots of energy. There are lots of things to do in London, Ontario , including 100 Kellogg Lane, Canada’s largest entertainment complex, Museum London, a museum that features more than 5000 works of art, Banting House, the former residence of the inventor of insulin, and Fanshawe Pioneer Village , an open-air museum that uses historical reenactments and activities to portray the lives of the early settlers in the London area. 

Killarney Provincial Park

Just four hours north of Toronto is Killarney Provincial Park , a true gem for anyone that loves nature. Known affectionately as the “Crown Jewel of the Ontario Parks” program, Killarney Provincial Park is one of the most beautiful parks in Canada and even inspired the Group of Seven, a famous Indigenous artistic group of Canadian landscape painters from 1920 to 1933.

With more than 150 pristine lakes with white quartzite mountains, thick forests, and beautiful wildlife, there is no shortage of adventure, including hiking, biking, paddling, camping, and so much more.

things to do in montreal

Montreal, Quebec

Montreal needs no introduction. It’s one of Canada’s most popular cities and a city full of festivals, attractions, nightlife, restaurants, and history. Although it’s on the further side (a six-hour drive from Toronto), it’s still very much a great option for a weekend getaway if you’re looking for a different city vibe.

Quebec’s most cosmopolitan city is also the province’s most Anglophone-friendly. This city is a great place for food and drinks lovers as well as great for history lovers as well as the city recently celebrated their 375th anniversary. Some popular attractions include Jean-Talon Market, Montreal’s Museum of Fine Art, Old Montreal, the famous Notre Dame Basilica, and so much more.

For more on what to do, check out our detailed guide to the best things to do in Montreal .

Parc Omega Winter Wolf Cabins

Montebello, Quebec

Those looking for unique accommodation will be truly happy to choose Montebello, Quebec as your weekend getaway from Toronto. Although it’s a 5.5-hour drive from Toronto (very close to Montreal), it offers some truly amazing accommodation options to whisk away your weekend of bliss.

One of these accommodation options is the Fairmont Le Chateau Montebello, which claims to be the world’s largest log cabin and is one of Canada’s most unique luxury hotels. Inspired by the luxurious alpine lodges from Switzerland, a crew of 800 worked around the clock using 10,000 giant cedar logs to build the resort’s three main buildings, all cut and set by hand. It really is a work of art and the central log chateau has a three-storey central atrium with a massive six-sided fireplace with a central chimney. Some of the hotel guests over the years include Sir Richard Attenborough, Sandra Bullock, Margaret Thatcher and the Royal Family of Monaco.

However, our favourite accommodation in Montebello, and perhaps in all of Canada, are the wolf cabins at Parc Omega. This park, which is home to a variety of local animals that you can visit during the day, is also home to some unique cabins that back onto a wolf sanctuary. Not only can you go to sleep with the howling of wolves in your backyard, but you can also lift open the curtains and have the wolves come right up to your floor-to-ceiling windows for a truly intimate experience with these stunning animals. To really see what it’s like, check out our video below.

Mont-Tremblant, Quebec

Whether you’re looking for some of the best skiing in Eastern Canada or a great place for summer activities, Mont-Tremblant is a fabulous place to explore. Located six hours away from Toronto, it’s one of the longer weekend getaways mentioned in this article but is totally worth it.

For those who ski and snowboard, this is Quebec’s iconic winter resort. East of the Canadian Rockies, it’s probably the best place to glide down a mountain, all with views of the beautiful Laurentian Mountains.

However, we’ve explored Mont-Tremblant in the summer and there’s so much to offer. Hiking and biking are some of the most popular activities but there are also some of the best zip-lining in Canada, a fabulous experience to get close to birds of prey, and some festivals as well, such as the Mont-Tremblant International Blues Festival held each year in August.

Wanna see Mont-Tremblant in the summer? Check out our Quebec Youtube video below.

Buffalo, New York (USA)

Did you know that you can travel internationally as one of your weekend getaways from Toronto? The United States border is actually very close to Toronto, which opens up more possibilities to explore new places for the weekend.

One of these places is Buffalo, New York, which is just across the border from Niagara Falls. Buffalo is a very walkable city and is a hot spot for dining. It’s also a great place for shopping as it’s home to great outlet malls and has a number of popular attractions such as Frank Lloyd Wright’s Martin House and the RiverWorks, the beautifully transformed waterfront that’s home to an entertainment complex with skating, hockey, curling, concerts, dining, bars, and concessions.

Rochester, New York (USA)

Slightly further than Buffalo, Rochester is another option for an international getaway. The city is bursting with fine museums, including the world-famous Eastman Museum & Mansion, the Strong National Museum of Play, the Memorial Art Gallery, and the Susan B. Anthony Museum & House, just to name a few. There’s also a massive 85-foot waterfall tumbling off a cliff in downtown Rochester, which people love to see.

For those wanting to go international, Detroit is one of the popular weekend getaways from Toronto.

Detroit, Michigan (USA)

Located less than four hours away from Toronto, Detroit is another option for a weekend getaway.

Once the heart of America’s automobile industry, it’s no secret that Detroit has fallen on hard times recently. However, that doesn’t mean that it’s not a great place to explore. One of the popular things to do, which just makes so much sense for Detroit, is the Henry Ford Museum of American Innovation and the Fort Rouge Factory tour.

There’s also the Motown Museum, which is one of the best places to visit in the world for those who love music. However, keep in mind that it could take weeks to get in, so make sure you book in advance. If art is more your thing, other popular attractions include the Detroit Institute of Arts, Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History and The Heidelberg Project.

Looking For Even More Things to Do?

As one of Canada’s top travel guides, we have all sorts of information about travel in Ontario and beyond. For more tips and inspiration, check out these travel guides below:

  • Best Spas in Toronto
  • Things to Do in Winnipeg
  • Things to Do in Quebec
  • Things to Do in New Brunswick
  • Things to Do in Saskatchewan

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About Matthew G. Bailey

Matthew G. Bailey is the founder and editor-in-chief of Must Do Canada. Growing up in Alberta to a mother from Quebec and a father from Newfoundland, Matt spent his childhood playing hockey under the Northern Lights and hanging out in the forest before moving to Calgary and travelling to more than 250 cities spanning 42 countries and 6 continents. He loves travel, learning new things, playing sports, writing, making videos, photography, and scuba diving. You can also find him at LiveLimitless.net .

Reader Interactions

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August 31, 2022 at 6:36 am

Love these recommendations…..never thought of the 1000 Islands as a weekend trip but it is a must-do now!

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November 13, 2022 at 6:58 am

Correction: The Group of Seven were not indigenous.

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November 13, 2022 at 11:46 am

I think you’re following a different group of seven. https://www.josephmsanchez.com/pniai-native-group-of-seven

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15 Top-Rated Day Trips from Toronto

Written by Lana Law Updated May 24, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Authors Michael and Lana Law lived in the Toronto area for many years and now live just north of the city.

Toronto is well situated in southern Ontario, with culture, nature, and small-town charm just a short drive from the city. We love Toronto, but we also love exploring the surrounding areas.

Blue Mountain

In less than three hours , road-trippers can find themselves shopping in quaint towns, playing in lakes and wilderness areas, enjoying an adrenaline adventure at an amusement park, taking in a performance at the country's most well-known theater festival, or soaking in the magic of Niagara Falls.

Some of the main attractions are seasonal. Amusement parks and lake areas draw crowds during the summer months, while others, like Niagara Falls and Blue Mountain , are popular destinations year-round. Some of these are even at their best during the winter months.

While most of these outings are self-driving day trips, organized tours to some of the most popular places to visit are available from Toronto. For more ideas, see our list of the best day trips from Toronto.

1. Niagara Falls

2. niagara-on-the-lake, 3. algonquin provincial park, 4. blue mountain and collingwood, 5. prince edward county, 6. stratford festival, 7. canada's wonderland, 8. gravenhurst and a cruise on lake muskoka, 9. st. jacob's and the farmers' market, 10. ski resorts, 11. african lion safari, 12. wasaga beach, 13. sandbanks provincial park, 14. cheltenham badlands, 15. beaverton, map of day trips from toronto.

Niagara Falls from viewing platform

Even though we've lived within day-tripping distance of Niagara Falls for 20 years, a visit here never gets old. If you're visiting Toronto for even a few days, you can't miss this sight.

One of Canada's most famous and extraordinary sites is less than a two-hour drive from Toronto . For many travelers, seeing Niagara Falls is the highlight of their visit to Toronto, or even Canada. This amazing spectacle has been wowing visitors since the early explorers came through in the 1600s.

There are many ways to see the roaring falls, from boat trips to the base of the falls to feel the mist on your face, to wandering tunnels behind the falls for a glimpse of the backside of this curtain of water. One of the most popular options is a trip up the Skylon Tower for a bird's-eye view over the falls and the entire area.

City of Niagara Falls in summer

As a day trip, Niagara Falls can't be beat. There are countless things to do here for all ages. The town of Niagara Falls , located right at the falls, has an almost carnival-like atmosphere, making it a fun spot for families.

From Toronto, there are a variety of tours offering excursions to Niagara Falls. Usually these tours are combined with a visit to the quaint town of Niagara-on-the-Lake . Some tours also offer a chance to see the falls lit up at night, either staying overnight or returning after dark.

One of the most popular tours is the Niagara Falls Small-Group Tour from Toronto . This is a full-day trip with pickup and drop-off at Toronto hotels, and includes transportation, a Hornblower cruise to the base of the falls, optional lunch, free time to explore the town and falls, and a stop at Niagara-on-the-Lake on the return drive.

If you're driving yourself, pay parking is available at the falls, near the water's edge. The town, the falls, and many of the various attractions are all within walking distance of the car parking area.

Author's Tip: Niagara Falls in winter is a truly special place. Yes, it's cold, but the plume of mist rising off the falls is huge. The spray from the falls lands on the railings and signs forming long icicles, and crowds are minimal. Try to pick a calm day when there is little to no wind.

Queen Street in Niagara-on-the-Lake

This lovely historic town, once the capital of Upper Canada, is one of Southern Ontario's small treasures. All of the structures are either from the 18th century, built following the destruction that occurred during the War of 1812, or designed to look as if they were built during that time period (1815-1859). As a result of this, the town is a National Historic Site of Canada.

Although it is very small, Niagara-on-the-Lake is a full-on tourist town, with horse-drawn carriage rides, souvenir and tourist shops, and a beautiful decked-out main street, always decorated in season.

Prince of Wales Hotel

The historic Prince of Wales Hotel , on the main street, is one of the town's prime attractions and a great place to stay to experience a little history.

Just 20 minutes from Niagara Falls and one hour from Toronto , Niagara-on-the-Lake is often visited in conjunction with a trip to the falls. The scenic Niagara Parkway follows the Niagara River from Niagara Falls to Niagara-on-the-Lake, on the shores of Lake Ontario, at the mouth of the river.

If you're looking to get a little exercise, a paved pathway runs beside the Niagara Parkway for most of the route between Niagara Falls and Niagara-on-the-Lake. Biking the parkway during the warm weather months is a popular activity and the ride is mostly downhill from the falls to the town.

Niagara-on-the-Lake is beautiful any time of year but has a particular charm in the fall when the autumn colors are peaking, and the red and yellow leaves line the streets and sidewalks.

From spring until fall, the town hosts the annual Shaw Festival . This festival has been running for more than 50 years, featuring the plays of George Bernard Shaw and Shavian playwrights. It's a summertime tradition in southern Ontario, drawing theater goers from all over the region.

All kinds of restaurants line Queen Street in downtown Niagara-on-the-Lake. Our favorite lunch spot in summer is The Epicurean . They have a lovely and casual outdoor dining area.

Niagara-on-the-Lake Map - Tourist Attractions

Algonquin Provincial Park is Toronto's go-to park for escaping the city and getting back to nature. Lakes, forests, and rivers attract canoeists, kayakers, campers, hikers, and nature lovers in general.

Wildlife is abundant, with wolves, bears, moose, deer, loons, and other small critters calling the park home. You can expect to see at least some wildlife, especially on hikes or canoe trips.

The park is open year-round and has a number of key attractions depending on the time of year. In the early spring, when the salt from the roads runs into the ditches, moose come to the roadside for the salt and can be seen regularly in the mornings by passing cars.

During the summer months, the park rents canoes for visitors to explore the lakes and rivers. This can be as simple as a couple hours of paddling or a longer multi-day trip. The park has all kinds of backcountry campsites for canoers and kayakers spread throughout the park.

Hiking trails around the lake shores and to high points with lookouts are popular day tripping activities.

Camping in Algonquin Park is another great way to experience the area if you are up for more than just a day trip. Campgrounds are well positioned around lakes.

Algonquin Provincial Park

In the fall, thousands of day trippers come here to see a spectacular display of autumn colors as the trees turn yellow, orange, and red. Bus trips run almost nonstop from early or mid-September to mid-October. And anyone heading into the park from the west gate should stop at Ragged Falls for at least a quick look at these large waterfalls.

The drive time from Toronto to Algonquin Provincial Park's west gate, the most convenient entrance from the city, is just under three hours .

The main corridor, with many of the hikes and campgrounds, is Highway 60 , which runs through the park from west to east. To return to Toronto, the options include turning around and driving back the same way, or continuing on and doing a loop, heading south on Highway 127 towards Bancroft, and following several other highways on the way back through Peterborough and beyond to Toronto. This is a much longer route than simply backtracking through the park.

If you decide to make Algonquin a weekend getaway rather than a day trip, you can find excellent resorts and hotels in nearby Huntsville.

Author's Tip: Do not plan a day trip to Algonquin Provincial Park on a long weekend during the summer or fall! The park can see hours-long wait times at the gate to even enter the park on long weekends, and forget about finding parking at your favorite spots. This includes Thanksgiving.

Read More: Top-Rated Things to Do in Huntsville

Blue Mountain Village

The ski resort of Blue Mountain, just outside of Collingwood, is a perfect day trip almost any time of year. About 2.5 hours northwest of Toronto , this area is always full of families who come here to ski, bike, hike, and play in and around the Village of Blue Mountain year-round.

With a reputation for being the best ski hill in Southern Ontario, the appeal of this place in winter is obvious. But if you venture up here in the summer, you'll find the village equally crowded, with people here to enjoy fine dining, shopping, outdoor events, mountain biking on the hill, wall climbing, ziplining, and more.

In winter, the resort offers outdoor skating on the Mill Pond Skating Rink; snowshoeing; tubing; and the Ridge Runner Mountain Coaster, for a little downhill fun on a track.

Also in the area, and open year-round, is the Plunge Aquatic Center with indoor and outdoor pools, hot tubs, rope swings, and lounging chairs for relaxing.

The nearby town of Collingwood, on the shores of Georgian Bay, is another popular summertime destination. This lively town has its own schedule of events, including the very popular annual Elvis Festival, some good bike shops with information on the local mountain biking trails, waterfront walking areas, and all kinds of dining options.

To the east of Collingwood is Wasaga Beach , a small town with a beautiful and lively stretch of beach that turns into a true beach scene during the summer. About 25 minutes south of Collingwood is the village of Creemore , with a population of only 1,300 people, but a large number of high-quality restaurants and numerous artists shops and other stores that draw a crowd year-round.

Read More: Top-Rated Things to Do at Blue Mountain

Sand dunes in Prince Edward County

Once primarily a rich agricultural region, Prince Edward County today is now a hot spot destination for both the movers and shakers of Toronto along with the casual visitor looking for an easy getaway.

Set off on its own on a large, roughly triangular piece of land jutting out into Lake Ontario, the area is known for rolling farmland, warm lakes, and incredible beaches.

The towns located in Prince Edward County thrum with energy and excitement in the summer months but drift back into quiet contemplation in the winter months. In places like Picton, the main town in the county, you'll find a good selection of restaurants, galleries, and antique shops along with hotels to suit any budget.

Read More: Top Things to Do in Prince Edward County

Beautiful old building in Stratford, Ontario

One of Ontario's most famous cultural events, the Stratford Festival is a celebration of theater that runs from May to October, with performances held at multiple venues around the town of Stratford.

With Shakespeare as the foundation of this festival, there is always a Shakespeare play happening, but the festival is much more, with a mix of classical and contemporary theater performances. The Stratford Festival is a summertime tradition that has been running for more than 50 years.

Stratford is approximately a one-and-a half-hour drive from Toronto in the rolling countryside surrounded by farms. Many people come just to soak up the pastoral scenery or spend a night at one of the many quaint little B&Bs found in and around Stratford.

The downtown area itself has some interesting old buildings, cute shops, good restaurants, and is a nice place to wander around after a performance.

Canada's Wonderland

Just an hour north of downtown Toronto , Canada's Wonderland is the country's premier amusement park, with some of the best roller coasters in Canada, along with other rides, games, circus shows, and the smell of candy and carnival food wafting through the air.

Splash Works is the place to be on hot days, with water rides, a lazy river, and the largest outdoor wave pool in Canada.

Special events are held regularly, from acrobats to stunt shows.

The level of excitement is always high here, perhaps because this amusement park is a seasonal event, open only from spring until fall. It's what kids wait for when they know summer is coming. Families come to visit Canada's Wonderland from all over Ontario and across the country.

Address: 1 Canadas Wonderland Drive, Maple, Ontario

Gravenhurst and a Cruise on Lake Muskoka

The town of Gravenhurst lies on the shores of Lake Muskoka in the heart of southern Ontario's cottage country . This famous lake, with summer cottages owned by some of Canada's most well-known film stars and personalities, is a beautiful introduction to Ontario's wilderness landscape.

Two steamships operated by Muskoka Steamships , the RMS Segwun and the Wenonah II , offer tours of the lake to see the rocky shores and towering pines, as well as the lakeside cottages, many of which are multi-million dollar mansions.

These cruises last between one and four hours depending on the type of tour. Options include a basic one- or two-hour cruise, a lunch cruise, a sunset dinner cruise, and a Millionaires Row sightseeing cruise. Specialty cruises also take place on holidays.

Gravenhurst is a typical Ontario town, with shops and restaurants lining the old main street. The waterfront area offers lake-view dining along the harborfront.

For nature lovers, the municipality maintains a number of hiking and walking trails in the area.

Gravenhurst is about two hours north of Toronto . Beyond Gravenhurst on Highway 169 is the little town of Bala , another popular summertime destination in cottage country, with an ice-cream soda shop, a bakery, a couple of restaurants, the Bala Falls, and frequent live entertainment by well-known bands.

Jams and preservatives for sale in St. Jacob's

The village of St. Jacob's lies in a pastoral country setting about two hours west of Toronto , near the town of Waterloo . The area is known for its large population of Old Order Mennonites.

The most famous attraction here is the year-round St. Jacob's Market , where local farmers come to sell their goods. The farmers' market is more than just fruits and vegetables, with artisans displaying one-of-a-kind pieces of art, crafts, and home décor, and prepared foods.

The food court alone is worth the trip, with local specialties and well-known favorite dishes on offer. Depending on the time of year, there are often vendors set up outside the market hall with clothing and seasonal items for sale.

In the village of St. Jacob's, a variety of stores also offer arts and crafts, jewelry, clothing, furniture, and gift items. St. Jacob's Outlet Mall has all the latest brand names in fashion and home decor, while the Market Road Antiques has everything in the old department. The town is particularly popular with shoppers at Christmas.

Holiday Valley Ski Resort

Although Blue Mountain is usually the place that jumps to mind when you think of ski resorts near Toronto, a surprising number of ski hills can be found within a couple of hours of the GTA. Some of these offer better prices and shorter lines, as well as a different atmosphere. Also, some of these are actually in Upstate New York.

Mount Louis Moonstone , near Barrie, is just over an hour from Toronto, and Horseshoe Resorts is about 1.5 hours from the city. Both of these are small hills and good options for families.

In New York, less than three hours from Toronto, Holiday Valley Ski Resort is a large operation, on par with Blue Mountain. It's located in the town of Ellicottville, which is itself worth a day trip.

These are just a small sampling of the ski resorts near Toronto . Many of the resorts make great weekend ski trips.

African Lion Safari

This fun outing, about a one-hour drive west of Toronto , is not a typical trip to the zoo, and it's not just lions. You can drive your own car, at your own risk, through the park to see exotic and domestic wildlife. Or, you can hop on the Safari Tour Bus.

Encounters with animals at the African Lion Safari may be more than just viewing from a distance, with baboons hopping up on car hoods to fiddle with windshield wipers and peer in at passengers. New vehicle owners beware!

This is a chance to see wildlife in a setting that is not the wild but also not a zoo. Some of the animals that call the African Lion Safari home include lions, elephants, giraffes, white rhinos, cheetahs, zebras, bison, and many more.

Address: 1386 Cooper Road, Hamilton, Ontario

Wasaga Beach

One of the most popular summer beach destinations, Wasaga Beach is less than two hours from Toronto and makes a great day trip in summer. The beach, one of the best in Ontario , has shallow waters that are often packed in July and August.

The white-sand beach here runs for 14 kilometers along Nottawasaga Bay, on Georgian Bay. The busiest area is around the town of Wasaga Beach, which is part of the attraction. The town has a good selection of hotels and restaurants, and events are held here most weekends in summer.

Sandbanks Provincial Park

If you are looking for a little quieter beach destination than Wasaga Beach, head to Sandbanks Provincial Park in Prince Edward County. This is a great place to visit to enjoy nature and a little time swimming and relaxing in the sun at one of the best parks in Ontario .

The three beach areas each have something a little different to offer. Some areas are shallow and well suited for families, while others are deeper and good for swimming. The most unique features of the park are the huge sand dunes that back sections of beach.

The park has great camping with sites located in mature forest with many spots located near the water.

Sandbanks Provincial Park is about 2.5 hours from Toronto and is set on the shores of Lake Ontario.

Cheltenham Badlands

Imagine being able to step back in time over 450 million years, and all you have to do is drive an hour . Well, that's what you can do if you point the car in the direction of the Cheltenham Badlands. Located in Caledon, this unique and interesting spot is a perfect family day trip destination.

Here, you'll find the earth exposed and giant red rows of rock exposed. A lovely 0.6-kilometer boardwalk provides excellent viewing opportunities, and interpretive signs provide background on the sight before and below you.

Note that this is a conservation area, and a relatively steep fee is charged to enter and park.

Thorah Centennial Park

An undiscovered gem just over an hour from Toronto is the small town of Beaverton, set on Lake Simcoe. Each summer, this town springs to life with cottagers and summer visitors. Beaverton has a rich history, and the local historical society has done a fine job preserving some of the old buildings from the town's founding.

Take a quick stroll up and down main street (Simcoe Street), and pop in at one of the local restaurants or grab an ice cream from the Cool Cow. Nearby are trails that run along the Beaver River down towards Lake Simcoe.

To the north of downtown is Thorah Centennial Park , shared by families who come with children to enjoy the playground and kiteboarders who take to the waters on windy days.

At the harbor, you'll find a wonderful children's splash pad and a picnic area along with a beach. Walk out on the long concrete breakwater for good views up and down the lake or to wet a line and try some fishing .

Near Beaverton, you can see boats transiting the locks of the Trent Severn Waterway . Parks Canada has recently restored the locks and canal to its former glory and installed new walking and biking trails at the water's edge. The best place to access the Trent Severn Waterway is at Lock 41 near Gamebridge.

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The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Toronto

The Toronto Skyline

Are you in search of a package tour for a 7-day adventure departing from Toronto? We've conducted a meticulous analysis of all available week-long tour options leaving from Toronto in Canada, considering factors such as price, comfort, service, guest ratings, cuisine, and activities. Our goal was to identify the absolute best packaged tour options to make it easier for you to plan your next trip. Whether you crave a serene getaway or an exhilarating expedition, these guided tours offer the perfect duration to indulge in the best of both worlds. Prepare yourself for captivating excursions and fantastic cuisine as you embark on a 7-day escape that promises unforgettable memories and a revived sense of wanderlust. To begin planning your next trip, take a look at our top-rated list of tours departing from Toronto.

  • Indulgence in Eastern Canada (Small Groups, 8 Days) 8 Days, $4823.00
  • The Sky's the Limit: Eastern Canada By Design 8 Days, $2970.00
  • Ontario & French Canada (6 destinations) 8 Days, $1780.00

What are 7-day (one week) tours from Toronto like?

Canada

Here are the important factors:

  • 10 trip options analyzed
  • $263 average price per day (USD)
  • 7 to 8 days in length
  • 4.43 of 5 average rating
  • 42 people or less on average

Curious about the diverse range of one week tours from Toronto? Prepare to be amazed by the array of options available to suit every traveler's preferences. It comes as no surprise that visitors adore these tours, given their exceptional average guest rating of 4.43 out of 5 stars. When it comes to group sizes, the average maximum capacity stands at 42 people, allowing for a comfortable and sociable experience. The shortest tour is 7 days, while the longest is 8 days. With a comprehensive analysis encompassing 10 one week tours from Toronto, you can rest assured that Canada has something tailored to your interests and preferences, promising an unforgettable experience for all.

(All tour prices are in US Dollars before taxes, and come from a base price that is reported by TourRadar. Peak season prices can vary significantly, particularly in destinations where seasonal travel fluctuates dramatically.)

So, let's get to it and see...

The 10 Best One-Week Tours from Toronto in Canada

Indulgence in eastern canada (small groups, 8 days).

  • High Quality: guest ratings are higher than average.

This exceptional trip offering by Luxury Gold has received a 5 out of 5 rating. On this 8-day journey, visiting Canada and USA, you can unwind while also making new memories. Uncover the beauty of 6 destinations on this itinerary, with highlights such as Quebec City, Niagara Falls (USA), Kingston, and Ottawa. Toronto will mark the start of your journey, while Montreal will serve as its final destination. With a group size of 40 people, it's suitable for travelers aged 5 or older. With an emphasis on local culture and family-friendly activities, you know you'll have an amazing adventure. This remarkable trip is priced at an unbeatable $603 per day.

  • Coach / Bus
  • In-depth Cultural

The Sky's the Limit: Eastern Canada By Design

Check out this journey that has received rave reviews, earning a stellar 5 out of 5 rating. Traverse through 5 enchanting destinations, with Kingston, Ottawa, and Mont-Tremblant among the must-see stops along the route. Toronto marks the starting point, while Montreal stands as the final stop on your incredible journey. Spanning across 8 unforgettable days, this voyage offers an intimate group experience with 46 participants, and it's great for travelers aged 5 to 80 years old. Brought to you by the renowned Globus , this exceptional opportunity is priced at an incredible $309 per day - an unbeatable value.

Ontario & French Canada (6 destinations)

  • Great Value: the daily price is lower than average for one week tours from Toronto.

This 8-day trip, visiting Canada and USA, is ideal for travelers aged 5 or older. And priced at only $205 per day, it's a great value, too. Rest assured, this trip is all about local culture and family-friendly activities, guaranteeing an unforgettable adventure. This trip visits 6 destinations, including Kingston, Ottawa, Quebec City, and Niagara Falls (USA) along the way. Beginning in beautiful Toronto, you'll have a terrific journey that ends in Montreal. It's offered by Cosmos , a very popular company with rave reviews and knowledgeable guides.

Eastern Canada Highlights in a Week

  • On Sale: 20% Off See Prices

Priced at just $240 per day, this terrific 8-day trip is ideal for people of any age. Experience a trip that takes you to 4 remarkable destinations, including Niagara Falls and Ottawa. Toronto will mark the start of your journey, while Montreal will serve as its final destination. Organized by the reputable WiseYatra , this is one of the best tours on this list.

Essence of Eastern Canada (End Montreal, 8 Days)

  • On Sale: 15% Off See Prices

Check out this incredible voyage that has received a 4 out of 5 rating from previous guests, visiting Canada and USA. This terrific trip also highights local culture and family-friendly activities. With a duration of 8 days, this journey ensures an intimate group size of 52 people, and is good for travelers aged 5 to 80 years old. Explore 7 incredible locations on this trip, including Quebec City, Cap-De-La-Madeleine, Niagara Falls (USA), and Kingston. Toronto marks the starting point, while Montreal stands as the final stop on your incredible journey. This fantastic option, organized by Costsaver , presents an unbeatable value at just $165 per day. Hurry and secure your spot while this incredible sale lasts!

Essence of Eastern Canada (End Toronto, 8 Days, Toronto Airport And Post Trip Hotel Transfer)

Spanning over 8 days, this journey has a maximum size of 52 individuals. Welcoming travelers aged 5 to 80 years old, it is organized by Costsaver , a very popular company with plenty of great reviews. Discover a journey that spans 6 destinations, with notable stops in Niagara Falls, Kingston, Ottawa, and Quebec City. You'll start and end this amazing trip in Toronto. Available at an unbeatable price of only $165 per day, this option also has a rating of 4 out of 5 stars from previous guests. Act now to take advantage of the special sale price!

Essence of Eastern Canada (End Toronto, 8 Days)

Here's your chance to take off on an exceptional voyage, visiting Canada and USA, that has garnered a 4 out of 5 rating. With a duration of 8 days, this jouney will have 52 participants, and it warmly welcomes travelers aged 5 to 80 years old. You'll love the emphasis on local culture and family-friendly activities, too. Expertly organized by Costsaver , this amazing trip is an incredible value at just $206 per day.

Eastern Journey

This memorable trip is offered by Omega Tours which has received plenty of positive reviews. The trip itself has a guest rating of 4 out of 5 stars, and is priced affordably at $193 per day. With 5 destinations to explore, you'll get the chance to see Niagara Falls, Ottawa, and Quebec City, and more. Your adventure starts and ends in Toronto. The maximum group size is 52 people, welcoming travelers aged 18 or older.

Eastern Canada Discovery (Classic, 8 Days)

Set off on an extraordinary journey that has been awarded a 5 out of 5 stars by previous guests. With a duration of 8 days, this journey offers an intimate group setting, accommodating 40 individuals, while extending a warm welcome to travelers aged 5 or older. Along the way, this journey encompasses 6 destinations, including Montreal, Niagara Falls, Kingston, and Ottawa. Beginning in beautiful Toronto, you'll have a terrific journey that ends in Quebec City. Brought to you by Insight Vacations , this exceptional deal is an incredible steal at a mere $422 per day.

Eastern Canada City Stay: Toronto and Montreal

With this option you can experience an unparalleled trip for 7 unforgettable days. It ensures an intimate group setting with 30 participants at most. Toronto will mark the start of your journey, while Montreal will serve as its final destination. Landsby , the organizer of this journey, extends a warm invitation to guests people of any age. This extraordinary opportunity offers exceptional value at only $126 per day.

See also The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Canada , The Best Wildlife Tours to Canada , The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in Canada , The Best Historical Tours in Canada , The Best 10-Day Tours in Canada , The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Canada , The Best 3-Day Tours in Canada , The Best 2-Week Tours in Canada , The Best 3-Week Tours in Canada , Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Canada , The Best Christmas & New Years Tours in Canada , The Best Coach Bus Tours in Canada , The Best Adventure Tours to Canada , The Best Eco Tours in Canada , The Best Train & Rail Tours in Canada , The Best Thrill-Seeking Tours in Canada , The Best Cruise Tours and Packages in Canada , The Best Sightseeing Tours in Canada , The Best Cultural Tours in Canada , The Best Camping Tours in Canada , The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Canada , The Best Polar Tours & Cruises in Canada , The Best Walking Tours in Canada , The Best Northern Lights Tours in Canada , The Best Tours Under $1000 in Canada , The Best Luxury Tours to Canada , The Best Tours for Seniors to Canada , The Best Contiki Tours to Canada , or The Best G Adventures Tours to Canada for more tour ideas. With so many options, there's a guided tour or vacation package for every type of traveler.

Also, if you're departing from a specific destination, see The Best 3-Day Tours from Vancouver , The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Calgary , The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Vancouver , The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Whitehorse , The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Halifax , The Best 10-Day Tours from Calgary , The Best 10-Day Tours from Vancouver , The Best 2-Week Tours from Vancouver , The Best 2-Week Tours from Calgary , The Best 2-Week Tours from Whitehorse , The Best 2-Week Tours from Halifax , or The Best 2-Week Tours from Toronto for more package tour options.

How much do 7-day (one week) tours from Toronto cost?

After analyzing 10 one week tours from Toronto in Canada, we found the average price to be a remarkably economical $263 per day. Naturally, this region has many fantastic options for one week tours from Toronto with a variety of prices. The individual costs will vary by the destinations, travel style, available dates, and other factors. If you're interested in more information about tours here, see our guide to tour prices in Canada .

And for more information on Canada, see Canada Travel Costs and Canada Hotel Costs .

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  • Activities, Day Trips, Things To Do, and Excursions

12 Epic Short Trips From Toronto

Last Updated on September 28, 2023

Want to escape the city? Here are 12 exciting short trips from Toronto that you can take at any time of year!

When I was growing up, Ontario’s slogan was “yours to discover.” I’ve always thought this was such a great slogan because there truly is so much to see in this province. And it’s all discoverable by taking a classic road trip.

Head out on a short trip from Toronto to embrace “Muskoka time” in cottage country, or to dine in Niagara-on-the-Lake’s cute restaurants. If you want to enjoy Ontario’s great outdoors, road trip to Algonquin Provincial Park!

Disclosure: This article includes affiliate links. This means that if you make a purchase through one of those links, I earn a small commission. Affiliate links cost you nothing to use, and keep Pina Travels reader-supported. Thank you!

Car-sharing and car rentals

Public transit, 1. go wine touring in prince edward county., 2. stand at the southern tip of canada in point pelee national park. , 3. visit the quaint town of elora., 4. discover georgian bay at bruce peninsula national park., 5. enjoy art, history, and nature in thunder bay., 6. hike the crack in killarney provincial park., 7. visit creemore, the village with a big heart., 8. take in nature in algonquin provincial park., 9. relax and dine in niagara-on-the-lake., 10. go camping and kayaking at rockwood conservation area., 11. experience the historic town of almonte., 12. embrace “muskoka time” in cottage country., how to go on short trips from toronto.

Want to go on short trips from Toronto, but don’t have a car? There’s a few options!

Renting a car is the simplest way to go on short trips from Toronto. Discover Cars compares the prices for a vehicle from a variety of suppliers to ensure you get the cheapest rate, and you can reserve your car rental in advance. Reserve a car rental here!

If you live in Toronto, you can use a car sharing service instead of renting a car. There are a couple that operate in Toronto, but I use Communauto . Membership is free, and it allows you to use an app to reserve vehicles that are typically available within walking distance.

You’d be surprised how many places you can go using Toronto’s public transit system! The TTC combined with GO Transit connects you to many of the towns outside of the city.

Parkbus is a service that connects city dwellers with nature through accessible transportation options. They operate bus services to several National and Provincial Parks from major cities across Canada. While it’s possible to book this service for multi-day trips, I find that it’s especially awesome for when you’d like to go on a daytrip. You can check out Parkbus, here !

Short Trips From Toronto: Here are 12 You Should Do!

Unwind in Prince Edward County, a scenic region on Lake Ontario known for its wineries, cideries, and farm-to-table cuisine. The gastronomic area is a 2 to 3.5 hour drive from Toronto (depending on traffic), making it a great road trip destination for a weekend getaway in Ontario .

From Toronto, take HWY 401 east until you reach exit 522. This will take you south to the relaxed area with quaint towns, pretty farms and stunning beaches. One of the best ways to experience the countryside is to rent a bike and winery hop. Rent bikes in Wellington and bike to wineries such as Sandbanks Estate, Karlos Estate, Hinterland and Closson Chase. If you’re not a wine drinker, check out The County Cider Company. It has marvellous views of Prince Edward Bay from the hilltop. Enjoy a craft cider tasting, go on an orchard tour or have pizza on their outdoor patio. 

Prince Edward county has a mix of quirky places to stay. If you’re looking for a trendy place, try The Drake Motor Inn, a hip retro motel named one of the Best New Affordable Hotels in the World by Conde Nast. For a charming luxurious stay, try Merrill House, a gothic revival mansion beautifully restored with contemporary elements. 

Submitted by Cecily from Groovy Mashed Potatoes

Point Pelee National Park is just a 3.5 hour drive south from Toronto. This National Park is known as “the point” because of the way that it stretches out into Lake Erie.

After reaching “the tip” of the park, which is as far out on the peninsula as is possible to go, visitors can say that they have officially stood on the most southern mainland point in Canada. This region of Ontario is so south, it’s actually aligned with the most northern border of California!

At 1,564 hectares Point Pelee is Canada’s smallest national park. Comparatively, Algonquin Park , which is further north in Ontario, is 763,000 hectares! This park may be small, but don’t let its size fool you.

The park’s unique ecology and location makes one of North America’s most renowned spots for birdwatching. In the spring and fall, you can watch bird and butterfly migrations. Throughout summer, come to Point Pelee to go swimming, hiking, kayaking, and more. 

Point Pelee is also a designated Dark Sky Preserve, which means that the park is one of the best places to admire the night sky in Canada. During the night, the sky glows from the light of millions of visible stars.

On Dark Sky Nights the park is open until midnight, which allows you to drive in for the evening if you’ve opted to stay in accommodations outside of the park. You can see the dates for designated viewing nights, here. This park is small enough to explore over the course of a weekend, making it perfect for short trips from Toronto.

For accommodations, consider staying in nearby Essex County , which is a short drive away and known for it’s fantastic wineries! Or, book the beautiful Rose Cottage – It’s a beautiful waterfront lakehouse that has modern amenities and treats you to beautiful views of Lake Erie. You can book the Rose Cottage, here.

Submitted by Erin from Pina Travels. Read more about Point Pelee National Park, here!

If you are looking for the perfect short trips from Toronto, consider a day trip to one of the cutest little villages in Ontario, Elora. Located along the Grand River, it’s a charming day trip destination about 90 minutes from Toronto.

One of the famous Group of Seven painters, A.J. Casson, called Elora Ontario’s Most Beautiful Village. 

There are tons of things to do in Elora . If you love the outdoors, there are parks and extreme activities like river tubing and zip-lining while hiking in the beautiful Elora Gorge will make you one with nature.

Another popular attraction is the Elora Gorge, where you can cool off with a refreshing swim during those hot and humid summer days.

In addition to nature, there are tons of authentic family-owned shops, with numerous places to eat and drink, from fine dining and cute cafes to brunch spots and Elora’s very own brewery. Elora also has several art galleries, where you can not only see art but make your own art at one of the many classes. 

No need to board a plane! With just a quick drive from Toronto, you’ll find yourself in a quiet and quaint place to relax.

Submitted by Christopher Rudder from Rudderless Travel, Road Trip Ontario & Travel Horror Stories Podcast 

Bruce Peninsula National Park is a 3.5 hour drive north from Toronto. With the lush forest and stunning views of Georgian Bay at the edge of cliffs, it’s no surprise why the park is known as one of the most beautiful places in Ontario!

It is worthwhile embarking on a day trip to Bruce Peninsula National Park or book a camping site for a longer stay. Due to its popularity, campsites do sell out ahead of time so it is best to plan your visit far in advance.

Spending a weekend camping is the best way to see the park, especially because you can wake up early and explore the park undisturbed before the flock of day-trip visitors arrive.

While visiting Bruce Peninsula National Park you can hike through the forest, swim, canoe, scuba dive, and so much more. The Grotto is definitely the most popular place to visit in the park, and for a good reason. There, you can swim in the crystal clear waters and admire the unique and natural sea cave.

Head to the nearby town of Tobermory to explore boutique shops and great seafood restaurants. From there, you can take a glass-bottom boat tour. On your tour you’ll see shipwrecks or head to Flowerpot Island for more adventures.

Submitted by Devin from Deventuretime 

Looking to have truly epic short trips from Toronto that includes art, history, and one of the best hikes in the province? Head north to Thunder Bay.

This isn’t your traditional Ontario weekend getaway as Thunder Bay is roughly 1400 kilometres north of Toronto, along the Trans Canada Highway. The best way to make Thunder Bay a short trip from Toronto is to fly there. Otherwise, you may need some extra days to drive there and back.

Located on the northern shores of Lake Superior, there is a wealth of things to do in Thunder Bay . For outdoor enthusiasts, there are a bunch of incredible waterfalls like the mighty Kakabeka Falls. Thunder Bay is also known for its hiking trails, like the Top of the Giant Trail in Sleeping Giant Provincial Park.

Thunder Bay is rich with history. To learn more about the area be sure to visit Fort William Historical Park, take one of the city’s four self-guided historic walking tours and don’t forget to stop at the Terry Fox monument.

A few other musts to add to your Thunder Bay itinerary is a visit to an amethyst mine, try one of their famous donuts at the Persian, and check out Ouimet Canyon, also known as the Grand Canyon of the North. 

Submitted by Stephanie from The World As I See It

Killarney Provincial Park is easily one of Ontario’s best provincial parks . Spanning 485 square kilometres, the park is home to turquoise and Gatorade blue lakes, the glistening quartzite peaks of the La Cloche mountain range and a never-ending horizon of windswept pine trees.

The park is located along the northern shores of Georgian Bay and is a 4 hour drive from both Toronto, making it a perfect short trip from Toronto to Georgian Bay.

Once you’re at the park, there is plenty to do. I highly recommend hiking The Crack. This trail offers one of Killarney’s best panoramic views. Ambitious hiker-paddlers can make the trek to Silver Peak, the highest point in the park, which has views of the surrounding lakes and Georgian Bay.

Considering the distance and the abundance of activities, you’ll definitely want to stay for a few nights in Killarney Provincial Park. I recommend camping – George Lake Campground is easily accessible and perfect for car camping.

Alternatively, you can rent a canoe for a few days and paddle to one of the many backcountry camping sites. OSA Lake is a personal favourite and can be visited on a two-night camping trip departing from George Lake Campground.

If camping isn’t your thing, however, you can stay at the Killarney Mountain Lodge, a beautiful hotel right outside the park.

Submitted by Mikaela of Voyageur Tripper

Only 90 minutes north of Toronto, an ideal short trip is to the charming village of Creemore . Take the scenic backroads where you will be treated to an idyllic countryside drive along the way, which is a highlight in itself.

Through the rolling hills of the incredible Niagara Escarpment, gaze upon the large heritage homes, farms, towering trees, creeks and ponds. This entire area is a huge draw for road cyclists and hiking enthusiasts for the nearby Bruce Trail. 

Creemore, first settled in 1842, was named after the Irish Cro Mor, meaning “big heart”. That’s why today, Creemore is often referred to as the village with a big heart.

There is a strong sense of community there, everyone is welcoming and proud to show off their village. It’s a thriving arts and culture hub filled with artists, galleries, and year-long festivals.

Stroll the lovely little shops that line the main street or stop in at one of Creemore’s many eateries. It’s also home to their very own Creemore Springs Brewery. Take a tour and learn about their unique fire-brew process using a copper kettle followed by a sampling on their patio.

Or, join the locals every Saturday morning at the lively Farmer’s Market. Creemore is that quintessential charming small town. It’s no wonder that it is often described as “one of the prettiest towns in Ontario” by Harrowsmith Magazine. 

Submitted by Renee of Dream Plan Experience

Algonquin Provincial Park is a lovely place for short trips from Toronto. This beautiful Provincial Park is just a 3-hour drive from Toronto via the ON-400 N and ON-11.  Algonquin Park was established in 1893 and therefore is Canada’s oldest provincial park! 

If you love water sports, Algonquin has plenty to keep you entertained. Rent a kayak and explore Canisbay Lake, one of Canada’s many beautiful lakes . At Canisbay Lake you can also build sandcastles at the small beach or go for a swim.

Canisbay Campground is located just a minute walk from Canisbay Lake, making it an excellent place to set up your tent or park your RV. The campground has many facilities available and due to all it’s trees, the campsites are shaded – which is especially nice during those hot summer days!  

There are plenty of hiking trails, both short and easy as well as more challenging hikes, suitable to any fitness level. If you are visiting during the summer months, be sure to sign up for one of the fun and educational Discovery Programs.

Rangers will share their extensive knowledge about the animals and plants that call Algonquin Provincial Park their home.  

Submitted by Lotte from Phenomenal Globe Travel Blog

Read more about Algonquin Provincial Park, here.

Niagara-on-the-Lake is a charming historic town that’s just 20 minutes from Niagara Falls and about 90 minutes from Toronto along the QEW. This little town makes for perfect short trips from Toronto!

Niagara-on-the-Lake is on the shores of Lake Ontario and at the mouth of the Niagara River. It’s well known for its abundance of wineries (there are over 30 wineries there alone!), adorable shops, award-winning restaurants, gorgeous scenery and much more.

In Niagara-on-the-Lake you’ll be transported back into the Victorian era by the presence of horse-drawn carriages, tree-lined streets adorned with flower gardens, and stunning architecture.

There are plenty of boutique shops to browse through during your visit. Or, enjoy a quiet walk down at the lake and see some historic sites from the War of 1812, like Fort George, Fort Mississauga, or the Butler’s Barracks.

Be sure to visit Nolaa’s Bakery for some decadence (and everything is keto, so you don’t have to feel so bad!) or Balzac’s Coffee to get your caffeine fix while strolling through town.

There are some incredible restaurants to try like Treadwell Cuisine, a farm-to-table restaurant. And of course, drop by one of Niagara-on-the-Lake’s numerous wineries with fabulous restaurants like Trius, Peller Estates, or Two Sisters Vineyards.

For a real treat, stay at the Prince of Wales hotel and indulge in luxury with High Tea and an afternoon in the spa. While you’ll surely leave Niagara-on-the-Lake with some wine, keep in mind that there is lots to do in this quaint town that doesn’t involve wineries !

Submitted by Sarah from In Search of Sarah

Rockwood Conservation Area is a Grand River Park in Rockwood, Ontario, and it’s one of the best short trips from Toronto. This conservation is a great destination because it’s an easy 1.5 hour drive from Toronto. Simply take Highway 401 headed west, and at Campbellville exit onto Guelph Line 1 headed north.

If you don’t have your own vehicle, you can book to take the bus to Rockwood for a day trip or for the weekend, using the service Parkbus. If you’re staying overnight, book a site at Rockwood’s campground, or stay nearby in Guelph.

Rockwood has two easy hiking trails. The Pothole Trail and the Cedar Ridge Trail. The trails run along the Eramosa River, and although they aren’t very long or challenging, both trails give you stunning views overlooking the river below.

At one end of the Cedar Ridge Trail, you’ll find one of Rockwood’s interesting attractions, a collection of natural caves! Some of them stretch back quite far, so much so that you’ll need a headlamp or the flashlight to be able to explore them. 

Aside from the trails, you can spend an afternoon relaxing on Rockwood’s public beach. The beach has both a sandy area and a grassy area, and the swimming is perfect plenty of shallow water that eventually becomes deeper.

This is also the perfect spot to launch a kayak, canoe, or paddle board. If you don’t have your own, you can rent them hourly from Inside Out Nature Centre.

Submitted by Erin from Pina Travels. Read more about Rockwood Conservation Area, here!

The historic town of Almonte in the Mississippi Mills region is a fun destination for a weekend getaway or day trip. It’s just a 40 minute drive from Ottawa, or a 4 hour drive from Toronto.

The charming and old-fashioned downtown area features restored historic buildings that have been used as film sets in several TV movies! Notably, Almonte was the home of the founder of basketball, James Naismith, and his contribution is honoured with a statue and a museum. 

Visitors can start their day on Mill Street, which is lined with antique stores, bookshops, and independent businesses selling clothing, outdoor equipment, and home decor. There are lots of great things to do in Almonte and a walking path, called the Riverwalk, runs along the water just behind Mill Street and offers great waterfall views. 

Visitors who wish to learn more about the historic legacy of the regional wool and textile industry can stop by the Mississippi Valley Textile Museum. Another unique spot to drop by in Almonte is The Dairy Distillery, which manufactures various vodka products and typically offers short tours and tastings. 

For accommodation, try the Almonte Riverside Inn, the Menzies Inn Bed & Breakfast or the Almost Home B&B. Otherwise you will need to consider staying in the western suburbs of Ottawa.

Plan your visit on Saturday morning from May to October when The Almonte Farmers Market operates it’s a great place to shop for groceries, baked goods and locally handcrafted items. 

Contributed by Claire from Claire Pins Travel 

Muskoka is one of the classic short trips from Toronto. It is home to crystal blue lakes, gorgeous views of the Canadian shield, and a variety of local wildlife. Not only is the region wonderful, but the drive in is also incredible.

You’ll love taking the regional highway 12 North from Toronto to drive through farmland and past stables full of horses. It may take 20 extra minutes to arrive, but the journey is well worth it, especially on a warm day with the windows rolled down.

Otherwise, you can take the 400N and highway 11 for a more direct route that will take you through great swaths of Canadian shield as you wind past the smaller lakes in mid-Ontario.

Rent a cabin for the full Muskoka cottage country experience. You’ll want to find one with the classic brightly painted Muskoka chairs on a dock where you can sip your morning coffee while listening for loon calls.

Adventurous travelers can take to the water, trailing behind motorboats on tubes or water skis. If you prefer a slower pace, take a kayak or canoe through the lakes, following the curves of different islands.

Even if you aren’t a water enthusiast, you’ll love visiting Muskoka. The region moves at its own, slower pace. In Ontario, it’s commonly called “Muskoka time.” So take a breath, slow down, and enjoy a slow stroll through the old villages. And, be sure to grab some local pastries from Don’s Bakery.

Submitted by Nina of Nina Out and About

Looking for more Ontario travel inspiration? 

  • 18 of the Best Ontario Parks to Explore
  • Why You Need to Visit an Alpaca Farm in Ontario

Your Essential Guide to Visiting Point Pelee National Park

  • First-Timer’s Guide to Hardy Lake Provincial Park

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Erin has been traveling for over a decade, both solo, and with her partner. She’s now traveled to countries across 6 continents, and has lived in 2 countries abroad. Erin also hosts the travel podcast, Curious Tourism , where she interviews travel industry thought leaders and experts about responsible tourism. Learn more about Erin, and get in touch with her, here .

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How to go glamping in algonquin provincial park, essex ontario glamping: your guide to glamping in wine country, how to visit rockwood conservation area, 8 thoughts on “12 epic short trips from toronto”.

All of these road trip destinations sound amazing! I really hope that I can visit Canada one day once we can travel freely again 🙂

All the trips sound great and the scenery in the photos is absolutely stunning

I have friends in Ontario, so this gives me so many more options when I next visit! I love the Georgian Bay area, and think it’s funny there is a ‘Tobermory’ there too (I used to live in Scotland, where the original Tobermory is) 🙂

I have a friend in Toronto that I’ve been meaning to visit for over the last decade. :[ These places would be great destinations to tack on–I’d love to check out the national parks!

Those cliffs look amazing! And those cute little towns could be charming European villages! Definitely worth a trip!

What great little trips to take! I think I would love to visit Elora. Usually I would pick more of a nature destination, but after this year I’m just longing to see people and towns! It looks like a great little town!

These are great ideas for road trips from Toronto! I’ve been to a couple of them before but most of them I haven’t managed to visit yet!

Thank you for curating such an excellent collection. Point Pelee National Park would be at the top of my list if I lived in Toronto. I learned something new… Creemore (a brand I’ve seen and tasted) comes from its namesake in Ontario!!

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Explore With Lora

23 Best Road Trips from Toronto for Summer 2023

By: Author Lora Pope

Posted on Published: June 26, 2022  - Last updated: July 9, 2023

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Wondering what the best road trips from Toronto are? I lived in Toronto for five years, and well I love exploring the city – I equally loved exploring the surrounding area.

As an outdoor adventure addict, I often found myself craving to escape into the wilderness. Thankfully, there are many beautiful Ontario road trips to take from Toronto.

Located in the heart of the Great Lakes, Toronto is the perfect gateway to the beautiful nature Ontario has to offer.

Whether you’re looking for a fun day hike or want to explore an entirely new city, these Toronto road trips will inspire your next adventure.

Need a rental car to explore Ontario? Find the cheapest car rental here!

Short road trips from Toronto

These Toronto road trips are close enough that you can visit them in one day, but of course, you can always turn it into an extended trip and stay overnight.

All distances and timings are listed for one-way trips, so keep the return journey in mind when making your plans for the great Toronto area.

1. Chase Waterfalls in Hamilton

Spectacular waterfall cascading down rocky cliffs surrounded by lush greenery in Hamilton, Ontario

Driving time: 44 miles (72 km) – 1 hour

Did you know there are over 100 waterfalls in Hamilton ? If you’re a waterfall lover like myself, then a day trip to Hamilton is one of the best scenic drives near Toronto.

Not only is this the highest concentration of waterfalls in Canada, but it also earns Hamilton the title of “Waterfall Capital of the World.”

In Hamilton, you can make a loop around of of the waterfalls. Though the driving route on this road trip is short, you’ll want to plan time to move through the region slowly and hike to as many of these waterfalls as you can.

You’ll start by making a large loop around the outskirts of the city- through areas such as Dundas, Ancaster, and Stoney Creek- where you’ll find the most waterfall trails.

Be sure to stop at the top five waterfalls (at least), including the Devil’s Punchbowl, Tews Falls, Webster’s Falls, Chedoke Falls, Rock Chapel Falls.

The Devil’s Punchbowl is a 37-meter-high waterfall in the center of a canyon. Tew’s Falls are close by, which is the tallest waterfall in Hamilton at 135 ft high.

After a long day of hiking and driving, end your journey on Locke Street, where you can grab a microbrew, a donut at the local hotspot  Donut Monster  or treat yourselves to a lovely dinner.

Hamilton is just an hour away from Toronto (assuming you don’t get stuck in traffic), so you can easily see a few waterfalls in a day. But if you want to see more, you can always stay overnight in Hamilton .

Along with beautiful nature, Hamilton has thriving art, music, and craft beer scene to explore.

2. Outdoors Sports & Relaxation in Blue Mountain

Relaxing outdoor spa surrounded by nature at Scadinave Spa in Collingwood, Ontario

Diving time: 106 miles (171 km) – 2 hours

Blue Mountain is a year-round popular destination for outdoor activities in Ontario.

During the winter in Ontario, it becomes one of the best places for downward skiing and snowboarding. In summer, you can go golfing, mountain biking, and hiking.

The best places to stay overnight are in Collingwood, one of many charming small towns in Ontario. It’s home to the luxurious Scandinave Spa , my favorite spa in Ontario.

There are indoor and outdoor hot tubs, cold pools, steam rooms, saunas, and relaxation areas, which you can cycle through for as long as you please.

The spa is open year-round and is busiest during the summer. I visited in winter on a frigid and snowy Canadian winter day. I thought it would be unpleasant being in the outdoor pools, but watching the snowfall over me while soaking in the hot tub was a magical experience.

3. Frolick in a Lavender Field in Milton

Driving time: 46 miles (75 km) – 1 hour

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Terre Bleu Lavender Farm ? (@terrebleu) on May 6, 2020 at 6:20am PDT

While these images may look strikingly similar to the south of France, this lavender field is just an hour away from Toronto.

Located between Milton and Guelph, Terre Blue has become an Instagram hot spot in recent years.

The Lavender bloom peaks during the summer, making it an ideal Toronto summer day trip .

Be sure to end your trip with a visit to the ice cream shop so you can indulge in the famous lavender to cool off from the heat.

4. Rock Climbing in Rattlesnake Point Conservation Area

Hiker enjoying a serene walk through the forest at rattlesnake point

Driving time: 39 miles (63 km) – 45 minutes

If you’re looking for a nice place to go hiking that’s not too far away from Toronto, then head to Rattlesnake Point in Halton.

Following along the Niagara Escarpment, this area has beautiful views of the valley below with 13km of trails to explore. It’s also one of the best places to go rock climbing in the province, with three designated rock climbing sites.

If you’re not ready to leave nature behind, you can also camp here overnight and enjoy the magnificent stargazing.

5. Tubing in Elora Gorge Conservation Area

tubing adventure down the scenic Elora Gorge in Ontario.

Driving time: 71 miles (115 km) – 1 1/2 hours

Elora Conservation area is one of the best day trips from Toronto. It has beautiful hiking trails and a river that you can go tubing down. You can rent the tubes there and spend a few hours floating down the river, soaking in the natural beauty of the gorge.

It’s also home to the Elora Quarry, which has been turned into a public swimming hole. It’s jam-packed in the summer, so get here early if you want to avoid the crowds.

Afterward, make a stop in town to explore the quaint locally owned cafes, art galleries, and one-of-a-kind shops. Famous Group of Seven painters A.J. Casson called Elora “Ontario’s Most Beautiful Village.” 

6. Caledon Cheltenham Badlands

hot tours from toronto

If you want to escape somewhere completely different that’s still a close drive to Toronto, head to the town of Caledon. This hidden gem is home to the beautiful Belfountain Conservation Area, a local farmers market, and is the gateway to the  Cheltenham Badlands .

I thought badlands were only in Alberta ! This unique area is actually a result of overgrazing in the 1930s. But still, It’s incredible that you can drive less than an hour away from Toronto and be in such a different landscape.

7. Marvel at the natural wonder of Niagara Falls

rainbow over niagara falls ontario

Driving time: 120 miles (193 km) – 2-3 hours

I can’t write an article about scenic road trips from Toronto and not mention Niagara Falls. This magnificent world wonder is one of Canada’s top bucket list experiences , and it’s just two hours away from Toronto.

What makes it so unique is the combined height and volume – 168,000 cubic meters of water goes over the Falls every minute!

A road trip to Niagara Falls is so much fun, especially with a group of friends. The Falls border with the United States, and you can visit Niagara Falls from both.

However, most people agree that the Canadian side is the more scenic as you can see all three waterfalls (Horseshoe Falls, Bridal Veil, and American Falls). Turn it into an extended road trip and visit New York if you have the time!

Niagara Falls is full of outdoor adventure. You can go zip-lining over the falls , take a helicopter ride for epic views, ride an open-top jet boat, or even journey behind them on a boat cruise. I highly recommend the latter; just prepare yourself to get soaked.

In the evening, head to Clifton Hill for a night of fun.

Iconic Niagara Falls, a magnificent natural wonder known for its powerful cascades and mesmerizing beaut

Looking for a place to stay in Niagara Falls with epic views? Check out Marriott on the falls!

8. Bike through Vineyards at Niagara-on-the-lake

Lora strolling through picturesque vineyards in Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ontario.

Driving time: 90 miles (129 km) – 2 hours

Nearby to Niagara Falls is Niagara-on-the-lake, a famous wine-producing region in Ontario.

The two towns are connected via the Niagara Parkway, a short but sweet drive. As you leave behind the falls, you can see the landscape change from the Niagara escarpment into the vineyards of Niagra on the lake.

After winding through historic Niagara-on-the-lake (and visiting the famous “Laura Secord” house), be sure to check out their historic downtown and stroll through the parks filled with Canadian war monuments.

You’ll find a few fun extras like art galleries and the occasional cheese shop and some easy hiking trails along the Niagra Escarpment with views of Lake Ontario.

You can combine the two into one road trip and visit Niagara-on-the-Lake as a separate day trip from Toronto.

If you want to enjoy wine tastings without worrying about driving, it’s best to stay overnight. Th ere are many cute B&Bs to stay around Niagara on the Lake , or you can take a day tour from Niagara Falls.

9. Wasaga Beach

89 miles/143 km – 1.5 hours from Toronto

Take a short road trip to Wasaga Beach, one of the longest freshwater beaches in the world, located on the southern end of Georgian Bay.

Enjoy the soft sandy beach, swim in the clear waters, and soak up the sun. Wasaga Beach is a popular summer destination with beachside activities, water sports, hiking trails, and vibrant events.

10. Port Hope

78 miles/126 km – 1.5 hours from Toronto

Embark on a road trip to the charming town of Port Hope, situated along the shores of Lake Ontario. Known for its beautiful heritage buildings, picturesque streets, and vibrant arts scene, Port Hope offers a delightful escape from the city.

Explore the historic downtown area, filled with boutique shops, art galleries, and delicious dining options. Take a stroll along the Ganaraska River, visit the Capitol Theatre for live performances, or indulge in outdoor activities like hiking and fishing in the nearby Ganaraska Forest.

Port Hope’s small-town charm and scenic location make it a perfect destination for a relaxing day trip or a weekend getaway.

Weekend road trips from Toronto

These weekend road trips from Toronto are all 2+ hour driving time from the city, so they are ideal for a long weekend getaway or 3-day road trip in Ontario.

11. Algonquin Provincial Park

lake and forest in algonquin naitonal park

Driving time: 190 miles (306 km) – 3 hours 20 minutes

Just a few hours away from Toronto is one of Canada’s most beautiful destinations – Algonquin provincial park . Covering over 3,080 square miles of rugged Canadian Shield, Algonquin is home to rivers, dense forests, islands, diverse wildlife, and over 2,400 lakes!

It is popular amongst travelers looking for outdoor adventure, but it also has a major appeal for artists and photographers, thanks to its beautiful scenery and  unique wildlife spotting .

Algonquin Provincial Park is a great place to see Canadian wildlife. Some animals you may see here include black bears, deer, moose, bald eagles, beavers, and various species of birds.

moose roaming amidst the wilderness of Algonquin Provincial Park in Ontario

Algonquin is also one of the best places in Canada to go canoeing, with over 990 miles of canoe routes that follow lakes, streams, and portage trails. Many people do multi-day backcountry portaging trips in Algonquin, as it allows you to see sights simply not accessible by road.

On your road trip from Toronto to Algonquin Provincial Park, make sure to take Highway 60 into the park. It’s a scenic drive, but wildlife sightings are common, so drive slowly!

Once you’ve entered, you may want to spend a night or two at an  outfitters lodge,  or backcountry camping Algonquin’s trails to make the most out of your trip.

12. Kawartha Highlands Provincial Park

adventurous kayaker exploring the tranquil waters of the Kawartha region in Ontario.

Driving time: 86 miles (139 km) – 1 1/2 hours

If you don’t want to go as far as Algonquin but want to experience Ontario’s incredible paddling opportunities, check out Kawartha Highlands Provincial Park which lies adjacent to the Muskokas.

It’s the largest park in Southern Ontario after Algonquin, with an oasis of paddling routes and cycling trails to explore.

Take a long drive through Lindsay, Kirkfield, and Sebright, followed by the towns of Bobcaygeon, Kinmount, and Rosedale.

Along this scenic route, you’ll experience the second-highest hydraulic lift lock in the world, endless roads of farmland, a train museum, and lots of lakes. It’s a good place to go kayaking!

Be sure to stop at the infamous Kawartha dairy- the original location. To commemorate the experience, strike a pose with your towering ice cream cone.  Moose Tracks ,  Bear Claw , and  Death by Chocolate  are some of the most popular flavors with the locals.

13. City explorer: Ottawa and Montreal

Vibrant tulip garden in Ottawa, showcasing the beauty of springtime in Canada's capital city

Driving time: (278 miles (449 km) to Ottawa 123 miles (198 km) more to Montreal – 4 -7 hours

While a city may seem like a weird thing to add to a list of road trips for outdoor enthusiasts, Ottawa fits the bill. Although it’s the capital city of Canada, it’s one of the greenest cities in the country.

While the bulk of this journey is on a highway, it’s quite a nice one with plenty of towns to pull into if you want to extend your travels or ONRoute rest stops for quick breaks. Once you arrive, be sure to check out Parliament Hill, the infamous Byward market, and the National Art Gallery.

If you’re traveling in the winter months, be sure to bring your skates and lace up for a trip down the Rideau Canal.

Gatineau Park is a short drive away from downtown Ottawa, a beautiful green space that has more than 165 km of hiking trails to enjoy. A great time to visit Ottawa is in May during the Canadian tulip festival. Come then, and you’ll be able to admire over one million tulips blooming throughout the city.

Need a place to stay? Check out the stunning Fairmont Chateau Luxury Hotel!

For an extended road trip, keep driving toward Montreal. It’s my favorite city in Canada, with the richest arts and culture in the country.

The drive from Toronto to Montreal takes about six hours in usual traffic, so breaking it up with a stop in Ottawa is a great idea.

14. Prince Edward County

Wine classes at a wood bar overlooking a Prince Edward county vineyard in the middle of summer

110 miles (177 km) to Prince Edward County / 162 miles (261) km to Kingston / 3 hours

Prince Edward County is one of Ontario’s most up-and-coming tourist destinations, with unique attractions around every corner, making it the perfect setting for an Ontario road trip. The county is on an island accessible by four bridges or by ferry.

While many of these attractions are family-friendly, PEC is particularly well-loved by couples celebrating a special milestone and friend groups planning a sophisticated girls’ getaway.

To extend your stay,  book a room  at one (or more) of the highly-photogenic retrofitted “luxury” motels and spend some time enjoying the gorgeous vineyards and wine.

Beach bums will adore the plethora of white sand beaches, including the protected shores of the ever-popular Sandbanks provincial park , one of three provincial parks in the area. It also happens to be home to a plethora of vineyards and restaurants; just follow The Taste Trail for a gastronomic experience.

You can easily pack your itinerary with trips to award-winning vineyards, hiring a curated picnic experience, or picking your own flowers at the  Dahlia May  flower farm.

For some nighttime entertainment, be sure to visit one of the few remaining drive-in movie theatres (The Mustang) and catch a show on the big screen.

From Prince Edward County, you can head back to Toronto or carry on to Kingston and the Thousands Islands.

15. Kingston and Thousand Islands

Driving time: 220 miles (354 km) / 4 hours 30 minutes

Scenic and enchanting Thousand Islands region, dotted with picturesque islands and crystal-clear waters.

From Prince Edward County, you can easily add Kingston to your plans, or you can do it as a separate road trip from Toronto as there is much to do in both areas. You can get to Kingston by ferry, which is a fun way to break up your road trip.

Kingston is a city rich in history, nick-named ‘the Limestone City’ for its elaborate 19th-century buildings that you can see walking around the historic center. You’ll feel transported to Europe!

It is also home to one of Ontario’s UNESCO World Heritage sites, Fort Henry, where you can step back in time and experience 19th-Century military life.

Continuing on the St. Lawrence River from Kingston and you’ll reach Thousands Islands National Park , home to a group of scenic islands along the St. Lawrence river that span the border of Canada and the U.S.

The Thousand Islands archipelago might be one of Ontario’s best-kept secrets. Nestled along the Saint Lawrence River is this stunning collection of 1,864 islands, to be exact.

I recommend taking a boat trip to experience the archipelago to the fullest, but even if you decide to stay on the mainland, you will find plenty of stops and things to do. Through several historic small towns, you’ll find lighthouses, boat museums, quiet boardwalks, lookout trails, and even a castle.

16. Bruce Peninsula National Park

Lora enjoying the stunning coastal views of Bruce Peninsula in Ontario

Driving Time: 185 miles (298 km) / 3 hours 40 minutes

When I saw photos of Bruce Peninsula National Park, I couldn’t believe it was in Ontario. The color of the water makes it look like th e Caribbea n! With the towering cliffs rising from the turquoise water of Georgian Bay, it’s no surprise this has become one of the most popular Ontario weekend trips.

Sauble Beach is best known for its beach shops, dunes, and summery restaurants, but it’s also home to several family-friendly attractions, including arcades, mini-golf, speedways, and laser tag.

You’ll want to hike in early in the day to avoid big crowds during the summer, and if you want to camp in the park , you need to book well in advance. Along with the stunning landscapes, the park is a dark sky preserve, so it’s a dream for stargazing.

You can spot a range of wildlife here, from black bears, deer, and coyotes to smaller residents such as chipmunks and porcupines.

From Tobermory, you can take a boat tour to Flowerpot Island, which is part of Fathom Five National Marine Park.

Marvel at the unique rock formations known as the Flowerpots, hike scenic trails and explore the island’s rich maritime history. Don’t forget to bring your camera, as the views are simply breathtaking!

17. Rent a cottage in Muskoka

Serene and pristine Lake Muskoka during sunrise, offering tranquil beauty and a peaceful escape in Ontario.

Driving time: 129 miles (208 km) – 2 hours

If you’re looking for a relaxing weekend getaway from Toronto, head up to cottage country in Muskoka.

The best things to do here revolve around nature, as there are endless hiking trails and activities like mountain biking, canoeing, kayaking, boating, fishing, and swimming.

The best way to visit cottage country is to get invited to someones’ cottage, but if you’re visiting from away, this may not be so easy (although Canadians are known for being friendly, so you never know).

If not, you can choose from a wide array of accommodation styles to suit your needs. Just to give you a brief snapshot, you could easily enhance your trip with a stay in a rustic cabin, a monstrous lakehouse, a chalet-style lodge, or a fancy couple’s resort. This area has some of the most unique stays in Ontario!

Though at first glance, Ontario’s cottage country might seem like one massive adult summer camp (and it certainly can be), massive tourism dollars have gone into making it a top luxury destination.

Those who choose to splurge on their Muskoka adventure will enjoy fine dining, exclusive spas, and a remote hideaway from the hustle and bustle of daily life.

While this route is a much more popular choice during the warmer months, winter road-trippers will be equally rewarded with snow-capped pines, frozen lakes, and quintessential  Canadian winter activities  like snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and ice skating.

Gather up a few friends, rent a car, and enjoy a blissful weekend in one of the most beautiful areas of Ontario. Cottage country life is all about lakes and campfires.

18. Georgian Bay Islands National Park

Captivating water view at Georgian Bay Islands National Park, displaying the breathtaking natural splendor of the area.

Driving time: 110 miles (178 km) – 2 hours

You know a national park is going to be amazing when it’s only accessible by boat. Georgian Bay is the world’s largest freshwater archipelago, and Georgian Bay Islands National Park is the best place to explore this untouched paradise.

Take the daily boat over for the weekend and immerse yourself in the beautiful nature around you. This park was one of the inspirations for the group of seven, and after spending some time here, it’s guaranteed you’ll leave feeling inspired too.

19. Awenda Provincial Park

Lora admiring a picturesque sunset over the tranquil landscapes of Awenda Provincial Park in Ontario

I hadn’t heard of Awenda Provincial Park until a friend asked me to go camping there over Victoria Day weekend. It’s such a gem.

Just a two-hour road trip from Toronto, Awenda Provincial Park is great for a low-key camping weekend. It has beautiful beaches, dramatic sunsets, and relaxing hiking trails. I did the bird-watching hike organized by the park and learned a ton about wildlife in Ontario!

If you’re looking for a unique Ontario park with few crowds, Awenda is an excellent choice.

20. Stratford

92 miles/148 km – 1.5-2 hours

Stratford, Ontario, is a charming city known for its rich cultural heritage and world-class theater scene. The renowned Stratford Festival is a major attraction, showcasing a variety of plays and Shakespearean productions.

Other attractions include the picturesque Avon River, the vibrant downtown area, and the well-preserved Victorian architecture. Nature lovers can find solace in the city’s beautifully maintained gardens and the serene Tom Patterson Island.

21. Manitoulin Island

226 miles/364 km – 5-6 hours

Manitoulin Island, located in Lake Huron, is the largest freshwater island in the world and a hidden gem in Ontario. It offers a serene and picturesque escape with its stunning landscapes, crystal-clear waters, and rich Indigenous history.

The island is known for its tranquility, making it a perfect destination for nature enthusiasts and those seeking a peaceful retreat. It offers a vast network of hiking trails, which lead to breathtaking viewpoints, hidden waterfalls, and lush forests

22. Quebec City

tourists walking on Narrow cobblestone street lined with historic buildings and charming shops in Quebec City, Canada

500 miles/800 km – 8 hours

Quebec City, situated on the banks of the St. Lawrence River, is one of my favorite cities in Canada. Steeped in history and European flair, the city has a unique and charming character that makes it stand out.

The UNESCO World Heritage Site of Old Quebec is a must-visit, with its cobblestone streets, historic buildings, and fortified walls.

Plus, you can indulge in delicious French cuisine. From cozy bistros serving hearty poutine and maple-infused dishes to fine dining establishments offering innovative gastronomic experiences, Quebec City is a paradise for food enthusiasts.

While a Toronto to Quebec City road trip is one of the longer ones on this list, you can break up the journey by stopping at places like Kingston along the way.

23. Finger Lakes, New York State

216 miles/348 km – 3.5 hours from Toronto

Embark on a scenic road trip to the Finger Lakes region in upstate New York, one of the best road trips from Toronto to US.

The Finger Lakes region of New York is a picturesque and enchanting destination known for its stunning landscapes, charming small towns, and, of course, its namesake lakes. From the majestic shores of Lake Seneca to the serene waters of Cayuga Lake, visitors can enjoy boating, fishing, kayaking, and swimming.

The Finger Lakes also boasts an extensive network of hiking and biking trails, including the famous Finger Lakes Trail, which spans over 900 miles and showcases the region’s diverse landscapes, from waterfalls and gorges to forests and meadows.

Renting a car in Toronto

If you don’t have a car or a friend to sweet talk into driving, the best way to get to the places listed in this post is to rent a car.

There are many car rental places throughout Toronto, including the downtown core. To find the best deal, search on Discover Cars as they will search all the car rental agencies in the city for you.

Find Your Rental Car

If you’re planning a road trip that includes crossing into the United States, check with the car rental company that you’re allowed to do that and ensure you have the proper documentation in the car.

If you can’t rent a car, there are still other great options. Check out the Park Bus, which runs shuttle buses from Toronto to several places mentioned, including Algonquin Park, Bruce Peninsula, Elora Gorge, and more.

Tip: The worst part about taking a road trip from Toronto is the hellish traffic leaving the city (especially if you are going from downtown Toronto).

There will almost always be some traffic, but if possible, avoid going during rush hour (7-10 am, 3:00-6 pm). If you can, you’ll save yourself a lot of time and headaches.

road trips from Toronto

FAQ: Toronto road trips

What are some good trips to take out of toronto for three days.

Some good trips to take out of Toronto for three days include Niagara Falls, Algonquin Provincial Park, and Prince Edward County.

What state is 4 hours away from Toronto?

The state that is approximately 4 hours away from Toronto is New York.

What is two hours away from Toronto?

Some places to drive to from Toronto are Kingston, Niagara Falls,

What cities are 4 hours from Toronto?

Some cities that are approximately 4 hours away from Toronto include Ottawa, Canada’s capital city, and Detroit, Michigan, in the United States.

What is the most beautiful drive in Canada?

The Icefields Parkway in Alberta, which stretches between Jasper and Banff National Parks, is often considered one of the most beautiful drives in Canada.

Where should I go on a road trip in Ontario?

Some popular road trip destinations in Ontario include Niagara-on-the-Lake, Muskoka, the Thousand Islands region, the Bruce Peninsula, and the scenic Lake Superior Circle Tour.

What are some family-friendly road trip destinations near Toronto?

The best road trip destinations from Toronto for families include Ottawa, Kingston, Niagara Falls, and Quebec City.

Are there any scenic drives near Toronto during the fall season?

Yes, there are several scenic drives near Toronto during the fall season, including Algonquin Park, the Kawarthas region, and the Niagara Parkway.

What are some must-visit attractions along the Trans-Canada Highway in Ontario?

Some must-visit attractions along the Trans-Canada Highway in Ontario include the Agawa Canyon Tour Train, Lake Superior Provincial Park, Ouimet Canyon, and the Terry Fox Monument in Thunder Bay.

Are there any coastal road trip routes near Toronto?

While Toronto itself is not located on the coast, you can enjoy a coastal road trip by exploring regions such as the Bruce Peninsula and the North Shore of Lake Erie.

Final thoughts: fun road trips from Toronto

It’s easy to think of Toronto as not being close to nature, but the truth is there’s an abundance of it not so far away. Ontario is a province that continually surprises me with its natural beauty.

I hope these road trip ideas from Toronto could inspire you to get outside and enjoy this stunning province!

Lora Pope

Lora is a full-time digital nomad on a quest to visit every country in the world and pet as many dogs as she can along the way. Over the last 15 years, she has traveled to 70+ countries and six continents solo. She currently calls Puerto Vallarta, Mexico home and enjoys ending each day with sunset and tacos on the beach.

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The 12 Best Short Trips from Toronto in 2022

By Khadija Bilal | Published on 09 Oct 2022

short trips

Toronto is a great city, with so much to see and do. From its museums and galleries to its world-class restaurants and beautiful parks. However, there may be times when you want to get away from the city and see something new.

Fortunately, there are lots of great short trips from Toronto you can make. Plus, the Ontario government has tax credits for staycations .The city is ideally placed for day trips and weekend getaways in Ontario and beyond. Let’s take a look at some of the top short trips from Toronto to consider this year.

Milton

When you’re talking about the best short trips from Toronto, the list simply wouldn’t be complete without Milton. In fact, for many locals, this is one of the best day trips from the area. It only takes about 45 minutes by car to get to Milton, so you won’t have to worry about spending long hours travelling.

Situated in Southern Ontario, Milton is technically part of the Greater Toronto Area. However, it’s much quieter than the busy streets of the big city.

There are lots of lovely things to do here, including plenty of fun-filled activities that are completely free. Such as walking along the Lime Kiln Trail or riding your bikes on the Bruce Trail.

The Crawford Lake Conservation Area is another great place to visit, and active individuals will enjoy spending time at the John Tonelli Sports Centre, or visiting the Glen Eden Ski & Snowboard Centre. Milton is great to see in the winter, with some excellent slopes for skiing and snowboarding.

So, how much will you have to spend? Well, it depends on what you do. You won’t have to use much gas to get here from Toronto, and a lot of the natural spaces are free to walk around. So, you can make an affordable day trip there. Or you can spend a little money to enjoy some attractions and food.

Estimated cost of a day trip to Milton from Toronto for 2: $114

Niagara Falls

Niagara Falls

Want to see one of the world’s most famous landmarks for your next short trip from Toronto? If so, head to Niagara Falls! They are arguably the most famous waterfalls on the planet. They’re only about 90 minutes by car from Toronto via the QEW Highway, so you can make it there and back in a single day.

The falls are simply extraordinary and easily rank among the key landmarks to see at least once in your lifetime. You can bring the whole family here to appreciate the sights and splendour. Or if you’re a couple, simply enjoy a romantic weekend getaway to Niagara Falls. Either way, you’re sure to have a great time.

As well as walking around and admiring the falls, there are plenty of other activities you can enjoy here. Various companies offer cruises and boat tours all the way down to the base of the falls, or even jet boat rides among the rapids. There’s also a zipline you can take, which is particularly memorable at night, as well as helicopter tours, too.

Just make sure to compare travel insurance plans before you go if you plan to enjoy one of these thrilling activities. Remember that there are also plenty of other more relaxing ways to enjoy the falls, along with some great local restaurants and good shopping areas in the surrounding area.

Estimated cost of a day trip to Niagara Falls from Toronto for 2: $165

Dundas Valley

Dundas Valley

Dundas Valley is another great place to consider for your next short trip from Toronto. It’s less than an hour away from the city, and you can simply follow the road south-west along the coast of Lake Ontario to get there. So this is another location that is perfectly feasible for cheap day trips , as well as more relaxing and lengthy weekend getaways.

The Dundas Valley Conservation Area easily ranks among the true treasures of Southern Ontario. The area is a haven for wildlife and a paradise for wildlife enthusiasts. It boasts all sorts of plants and animals for you to look out for as you explore and enjoy the various trails and pathways.

Classed as a World Biosphere Reserve by UNESCO , the Conservation Area is a joy to look at. It’s the perfect escape when you’re feeling a little too tired of all the hustle and bustle of the big city.

Plus, there’s only a small fee to park your car. Once you get inside, you can enjoy a whole host of activities, like cycling, hiking, picnics, and more.

While in the area, you could also visit Dundurn Castle, a 40-room, Italian-inspired estate dating back to the 1830s. The castle was once home to railway magnate and Premier of the United Canadas, Sir Allan Napier MacNab, and the staff here offer some informative and fascinating tours.

Estimated cost of a day trip to Dundas Valley from Toronto for 2: $65

Elora

If you’re looking for a charming town for your next short trip from Toronto, or a romantic weekend getaway, you may want to choose Elora. One of the cutest and loveliest places in the Toronto area, Elora can be reached from Downtown Toronto in about 90 minutes.

Situated in Wellington County and founded in the 1830s, this town has a lot of history behind it. It houses the famous Elora Mill, for example, which stands five stories tall and was constructed in 1832. Over time, the mill has been a sawmill, a distillery, a flour mill, and is currently a luxury hotel and spa.

If you’re looking for things to do here, there are plenty of options. Couples may want to visit Metcalfe Street to enjoy some of the town’s boutiques and independent stores. They sell a range of items from attire and accessories, to handmade gifts and unique souvenirs you can take back home. Just remember to get the best travel credit card before you go.

There are also some great restaurants in the area, serving up farm-to-table meals with locally-sourced ingredients. Some of the best places have seats looking out over the river, perfect for a romantic evening. If you want something more active and adventurous, you can head out to Elora Gorge and admire the 80 foot deep chasm walls.

Estimated cost of a one-night trip to Elora from Toronto for 2: $600

Blue Mountain

Blue Mountain

Next up on our list of the best short trips from Toronto, we have Blue Mountain. It takes a bit of time to get here, with an average of two hours in the car from Toronto, but it’s more than worth it.

Many people make the journey from Toronto to Blue Mountain every single year to enjoy the unique beauty and activities of this popular ski and snowboard resort.

The Blue Mountain ski resort has been around since the 1940s. It’s arguably best in winter, when visitors can enjoy activities like skiing, snowboarding, ice skating, pond skating, snowshoeing, and sleigh rides . However, even in the spring and summer, there are things to do here, like golf, rock climbing, ziplines, rope courses, and hiking.

Blue Mountain Village is also a very charming place that hosts a range of events throughout the year. Including live music concerts, fireworks shows, harvest events in the fall, and more. Plus, there are some lovely shops and restaurants to try out in the local area, and some really friendly people waiting to welcome you.

How much will this all cost? Well, it depends if you choose to stick around for a couple of nights or head back quickly. But even if you do decide to stay, there are some affordable accommodation options in the area for budget-conscious travellers to consider.

Estimated cost of a one-night stay in Blue Mountain from Toronto for 2: $280

Collingwood

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When it comes to short trips from Toronto, a lot of locals tend to head up to Collingwood. It takes less than two hours to get there by car, and it’s a great place to base yourself for trips to other nearby locations. Including beaches, lakes, and ski resorts. So there really is something for everyone in Collingwood.

Wasaga Beach is one of the top spots to check out while you’re in Collingwood. Long, sandy, and golden, this beach is situated at the southern end of Georgian Bay. It’s actually one of the longest freshwater beaches on the entire planet. So, even on busy days, you should be able to find plenty of space for yourself and your loved ones here.

Visitors to Collingwood can also check out the aforementioned Blue Mountain ski area and village, or simply stick around in the city of Collingwood itself, enjoying places like Sunset Point Park, the Georgian Trail, or even the local Side Launch Brewery. There’s no shortage of great places to eat and drink, as well.

In terms of cost, the price you pay will depend on how long you stay. It’s good to have a full weekend here, as there’s so much to see and do. You can save money by enjoying free attractions and activities, like walking along Wasaga Beach.

Estimated cost of a two-night trip to Collingwood from Toronto for 2: $740

Niagara-on-the-Lake

Niagara-on-the-Lake

The next entry on our list, and one of the most romantic short trips from Toronto, is Niagara-on-the-Lake. Situated in southern Ontario, right on the shores of Lake Ontario, this little town is famed for its wineries and welcoming atmosphere, and you can reach it in about an hour and a half from Toronto.

A beautiful and one-of-a-kind small town, Niagara-on-the-Lake is the sort of place that visitors want to return to again and again. Its flower-lined old town area, for example, is filled with wonderful old buildings that date back to the 19th century. The town also has some interesting historic landmarks, like Fort George, constructed by the British as a base against American offensives.

There are some great places to stay here, too. Including luxury hotels for those with big budgets, and more quaint and quiet bed & breakfast places with uniquely-decorated rooms. In terms of things to do, you can visit local shops, dine at local restaurants, admire the architecture, or even visit the continent’s oldest golf course.

There are some stunning old churches dotted around the town, too. You won’t want to miss the Shaw Festival, which runs from April to December every year and involves various theatrical plays and performances based on the works of George Bernard Shaw .

Estimated cost of a one-night trip to Niagara-on-the-Lake from Toronto for 2: $350

Sooke

Another option you have if you’re planning short trips from Toronto is to head east from the big city and visit Prince Edward County, also just known as “The County” to the locals. It only takes about two hours to get to Prince Edward County from the Greater Toronto Area, and it’s an ideal escape for a relaxing weekend or romantic one night stay.

So, what can you do here? Well, PEC is an ideal location for foodies and wine lovers . There are several great wineries in the area, and many of them have tasting rooms, vineyard tours, and other fun things for visitors to do. There are some great breweries, too, and a lot of high quality restaurants.

There’s also quite a creative community in Prince Edward County, so you could check out some of the local galleries to see some great art, inspired by the beauty of the area. Or, if you’re looking to immerse yourself in nature, head to Sandbanks Provincial Park , home of the biggest baymouth barrier dunes in the world.

For a truly special stay that you won’t soon forget, you may want to visit during the area’s famous Lavender Festival. There are many other great events in PEC all through the year.

Estimated cost of a one-night short trip to Prince Edward County from Toronto for 2: $470

Tobermory

Ontario has so many beautiful, breathtaking places, and the Bruce Peninsula ranks among the very best of them. You can enjoy the wonderful views and activities of this area with a short trip from Toronto to the town of Tobermory. It takes about 3.5 hours to get there by car, or you can take the bus, which takes a little longer.

Tobermory is a wonderful little town. Here, you’ll find some great fish and chip restaurants and seafood bars with views over the water, along with lively bars and live music events in the evenings. There are some great shops, too, often selling handmade wares from local artists and creators.

Visitors can walk along the harbour and take in the scenic sights and vibrant atmosphere of the place, or head out onto the water by booking a local boat tour or cruise. You can also head over to Flower Pot Island and check out some of the local shipwrecks dating back to the 1800s.

Of course, the main attraction here has to be Bruce Peninsula National Park. One of the most visually impressive national parks in all of Canada, Bruce Peninsula is utterly picturesque, perfect for long, romantic walks, photoshoots, and cozy picnics.

Estimated cost of a day trip to Salt Spring Island from Vancouver for 2: $400

Muskoka

The District of Muskoka, otherwise simply know as Muskoka, is another prime destination to choose for a short trip from Toronto or a weekend getaway. Known as cottage country, this area attracts over 2 million visitors each year, and it’s a must-see spot for Torontonians, since it’s only two hours from the big city.

Instantly recognizable with its crystal clear lakes and dense pine forests, Muskoka is the sort of place you can lose yourself in for hours on end. It’s ideal for those who want to feel at one with nature, with a whole host of provincial parks to explore like Algonquin, Arrowhead, and Hardy Lake.

There are some highly luxurious and fancy resorts in this part of Canada, too. So, if you really want to indulge, you can book a night or two at a nice place and enjoy some of the resort’s own spa services and fine dining, or you can visit local bakeries and coffee shops for good food on a budget.

Estimated cost of a short trip to Muskoka from Toronto for 2: $200

Stratford

Looking for something a little more cultural for your next short trip from Toronto? If so, you may want to consider a day trip or short stay in the city of Stratford, about two hours west of Toronto. Named after the English city of the same name where William Shakespeare was born, the city is famous for hosting the annual Stratford Festival, with regular performances of classic plays.

The festival runs from April to November, so you can visit and enjoy live theatrical fun for large parts of the year. But that’s not all that Stratford has to offer. The city also has a great culinary scene, with some great chefs running local restaurants and serving up a fine array of gourmet meals.

Stratford is also home to some wonderful Victorian era architecture, and it can be pleasant to simply stroll along the streets and take in the views of the city that surround you. Plus, landmarks like Stratford City Hall and the Shakespearean Gardens are certainly worth a visit.

Estimated cost of a day trip to Stratford from Toronto for 2: $295

Buffalo

Last but not least on our list of short trips from Toronto, we can also recommend a trip over the border into the US to visit the cultural hub of Buffalo in New York State. It takes a little over two hours to drive here from Toronto, or you can take a bus straight into the city, which takes more or less the same amount of time.

So, what can you do here? Well, Buffalo is a great city to walk around, either on your own or as part of a guided tour. There are lots of impressive buildings and interesting architectural landmarks across the city, and no visit can be complete without a stroll through the Canalside area.

In terms of attractions, Frank Lloyd Wright’s Martin house will appeal to art and architecture lovers, while the Naval and Military Park is a fascinating place to learn more about military history. You can also catch a Buffalo Sabres game at KeyBank Center, or admire the plants at the Buffalo and Erie County Botanical Gardens.

Estimated cost of a short trip to Buffalo from Toronto for 2: $230

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5-day toronto to kingston, montreal, quebec city, niagara falls, ice hotel and ottawa tour (free airport pickup) tour code : gol-tor-105a.

5-Day Toronto to Kingston, Montreal, Quebec City, Niagara Falls, Ice Hotel and Ottawa Tour (Free Airport Pickup)

Departure City : Toronto ON

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  • Hotel Breakfast.

5-Day Toronto to Kingston, Quebec City, Montreal, Queen's University, Niagara Falls, Olympic Park, Ice Hotel and Ottawa Tour (Free Airport Pickup) Tour code :

5-Day Toronto to Kingston, Quebec City, Montreal, Queen's University, Niagara Falls, Olympic Park, Ice Hotel and Ottawa Tour  (Free Airport Pickup)

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10-Day Toronto to Quebec City, Ottawa, Montreal, Thousand Islands, Niagara Falls, Charlottetown and Kings Landing Tour (Free Airport Pickup) Tour code : GOL-TOR-110

10-Day Toronto to Quebec City, Ottawa, Montreal, Thousand Islands, Niagara Falls, Charlottetown and Kings Landing Tour (Free Airport Pickup)

Available Days : Tue, Fri, Sun & Special Dates

Highlights : Visit all the famous cities and attractions in East Canada.  

  • Hotel breakfast.

7-Day Toronto to Philadelphia, Washington DC, Boston, Quebec, Montreal, New York and Niagara Falls Tour Tour code : GOL-TOR-104

7-Day Toronto to Philadelphia, Washington DC, Boston, Quebec, Montreal, New York and Niagara Falls Tour

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Highlights : Immerse yourself in the beauty of Toronto, Thousand Islands, Montreal,Boston and New York famous sights. On this 7-day tour guests can also visit the Philadelphia, Washington D.C and Niagara Falls with a professional tour guide and hotel stay.

  • Only the guides and drivers who have COVID 19 negative can provide services from now onwards. Drivers and Guides will wear the mask. They will disinfect the bus daily. Travelers will have to wear the mask and their temperature will be monitored regularly. Travelers will be provided with hand sanitizer and wipes. We recommend travelers to bring their own hand sanitizer also. Bus sitting will be based on the standards set by the Government.

8-Day Toronto to Philadelphia, Boston, Washington DC, Niagara Falls, Montreal, Quebec City and Thousand Islands CA Tour Tour code : GOL-TOR-109

8-Day Toronto to Philadelphia, Boston, Washington DC, Niagara Falls, Montreal, Quebec City and Thousand Islands CA Tour

Highlights : Discover the charm of Toronto, Thousand Islands, Ottawa, Montreal, Quebec City, Boston, Cambridge, New York, Charging Bull, Liberty Cruise, The Metropolitan Museum of Art, Philadelphia, Washington, D.C., Corning, Niagara Falls and much more will offer you to have a pleasant journey. 

9-Day Toronto to Montreal, Quebec, Boston, New York, Philadelphia, Washington DC, Thousand Islands and Niagara Falls (U.S & Canadian Side) Tour Tour code : GOL-TOR-108

9-Day Toronto to Montreal, Quebec, Boston, New York, Philadelphia, Washington DC, Thousand Islands and Niagara Falls (U.S & Canadian Side) Tour

Highlights : Explore Thousand Island, Parliament Hill, Old Montreal, Cathedral-Basilica of Notre-Dame, Château Frontenac, Harvard University, Quincy Market, Wall Street, Ground Zero, Fifth Avenue, Statue of Liberty, Princeton University, Independence Hall, Amish Farm, White House, Lincoln Memorial, Capitol Hill, Corning Museum of Glass, Niagara Falls, Rainbow Bridge, Skylon Tower, and CN Tower on an exciting 9-day bus tour starting from Toronto with special discounts and buy two get two tickets free offer.

9-Day From Toronto to Niagara Falls, Ottawa, 1000 Islands, Quebec City & Montreal Tour Tour code : GOL-TOR-106

9-Day From Toronto to Niagara Falls, Ottawa, 1000 Islands, Quebec City & Montreal Tour

Highlights : Enjoy a nine-day guided tour of Toronto, Ottawa, Montreal, Fredericton, Halifax, Quebec City, Saint John, Thousand Islands, Niagara Falls and numerous other attractive places.  Hotel stay at night and transport facilities are both part of the price.

Buy 2 get 3rd discounted

  •    Only the guides and drivers who have COVID 19 negative can provide services from now onwards. Drivers and Guides will wear the mask. They will disinfect the bus daily. Travelers will have to wear the mask and their temperature will be monitored regularly. Travelers will be provided with hand sanitizer and wipes. We recommend travelers to bring their own hand sanitizer also. Bus sitting will be based on the standards set by the Government.

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Frozen lake in Ontario at sunset

15 Best Winter Road Trips from Toronto

Toronto is a vibrant city, famous for its diverse food scene, major sports events and buzzing arts and entertainment scene. Though the city shows no signs of slowing down once snow hits the ground, you've got plenty of choices if you want to escape for some winter fun elsewhere.

Whether you want to embrace the snow or head for warmth, a winter road trip from Toronto can involve outdoor recreation in stunning nature, foodie cities and wineries, winter festivals in picturesque settings, or seeking warmer weather at the coast.

Whichever kind of winter road trip you have in mind, we've pulled together key information for a variety of destinations to help inspire your trip. Read on for our guide to the places to go, how to get there, and what to do once you arrive.

Best winter road trips from Toronto: a quick overview

Single day trips (under 3 hours each way).

If you want to experience the snow at its most picturesque, head out of the city and enjoy one of these shorter trips for quaint Christmas markets, stunning winter scenery and a whole range of snow sports.

1. Kitchener (Christkindl Market) and St Jacob, ON

1 hour 30 minutes from Toronto (120 km)

Why you should visit: The shortest day trip from the city on the list, this destination offers a unique program of seasonal festivities with a German flare.

Kitchener is a former German Mennonite town that is rich in German heritage - walking through the snowy streets it really feels like you've stepped back in time to Bavaria, Germany.

Downtown Kitchener historic district on a sunny day, Ontario

How to get there: Head west on ON-401 out of Toronto and turn north on Highway 8 west towards Kitchener. From Kitchener, head north on ON-85 to St Jacobs, then onward to the St Jacobs Farmers' Market.

Our highlights: Turn back the clock 200 years and this region was settled by German Mennonites, whose heritage is prevalent in Kitchener's architecture, language and cultural traditions.

One such tradition is the Christkindl Market, which from December 1 to 4 is a charming place to browse vendor stalls, get Bavarian-style treats, and do some holiday shopping.

Kitchener boasts another famous market - the St Jacobs Farmers' Market - which features over 250 vendors selling everything from fresh produce, baked goods, home furnishings, toys, crafts, and a flea market.

November is a great time to go as the whole venue is lit up with sparkles, and you can even take horse-drawn winter sleigh rides!

If you want to try skiing, snowboarding and snow tubing, the Chicopee Ski Club offers all three, or try the Waterloo Region Nordic Sports Club cross-country ski trails that cover southern Kitchener.

For a hit of culture, check out the Kitchener-Waterloo Art Gallery, which displays selections from the culturally diverse city of Kitchener as well as art on loan from other galleries.

Bonus: During the holidays, Victoria Park puts on a Christmas Fantasy festive light display with a synthetic ice-skating rink, which is free to experience!

Our travel tips: Book any outdoor activities in advance and check weather conditions online before you set off.

2. Niagara Falls and Niagara-On-The-Lake

1 hour 50 minutes from Toronto (150 km)

Why you should visit: The Niagara River is a stunning sight to behold even in the colder months, and the scenery created by the Falls with ice and glistening snowy surrounding is not-to-be-missed.

Avoid peak summer times and see this world wonder in the winter instead when it's quieter and enjoy the festive holiday vibe in the surrounding city.

Historic Prince of Wales Hotel in Niagara On The Lake, Ontario, Canada in the snow with horse drawn carriage in the foreground

How to get there: Head south on Queen Elizabeth Highway through Hamilton. Take the exit for Regional Road 55 towards Niagara-On-The-Lake. Take Niagara Parkway south to Niagara Falls.

Our highlights: The surrounding areas are filled with local wineries - we recommend Wayne Gretzky's which has an ice rink on-site or Peller Estates which has an ice bar. If you're looking for something more romantic that's great for couples, try the Trius Winery and Restaurant.

The Icewine Festival in January is a festive winter wonderland that might just convince you to stay for the weekend - with special winery visits and tours as well as dinner pairings.

Sentineal Carriages operate horse-drawn carriage rides, which is a nostalgic way to explore the historic town of Niagara-On-The-Lake.

Niagara Falls is obviously the star of the show and is particularly spectacular in the winter when parts of it freeze over. In the city of Niagara there are plenty of restaurants and shopping, as well as a butterfly conservatory which keeps the butterflies (and you!) warm all winter.

Bonus: Inniskillin winery is the original maker of icewine, which you can sample at their premises. Icewine is made with grapes that have frozen on the vine and is very sweet, like a dessert wine.

Our travel tips: If you want, you can cross the Rainbow International Bridge to step onto American soil, though immigration customs checks do apply.

3. Presqu'ile Provincial Park

Why you should visit: On the shore of Lake Ontario, this park is open all year round and offers a unique chance to see ice cliffs, ice volcanoes, and other ice formations up close during the winter months.

This wintery wonderland can be explored by car or on foot, for a peaceful moment of solitude in the wilderness.

Swans at Presquile Provincial Park in the winter

How to get there: Go east on ON-401 and turn south at Purdy Corners on CR25 to follow County Road 2 to the park entrance.

Our highlights: See elusive animals such as foxes, river otters, long-tailed ducks, bald eagles, snow buntings, and snowy owls on the Winter Wildlife Detective Program.

See the famous ice cliffs from the shoreline of Lake Ontario, including pancake ice formations and icebergs. It's also a great place to go snowshoeing, with plenty of outfitters nearby and established trails.

Brimacombe is a small ski area midway between Toronto and the park, which is especially good for beginners!

Waldeinsamkeit means “solitude in the forest”, and there is plenty of that on offer here during quiet winter months in the park.

Our travel tips: Don't walk directly on the ice on the shoreline of the lake as this can be dangerous! Stay on the trails on solid land unless you are with an experienced guide.

4. Collingwood and Blue Mountain Ski Resort

2 hours 10 minutes from Toronto (170 km)

Why you should visit: With a beautiful setting on the shore of South Georgian Bay, this area is under 3 hours from Toronto and offers plenty of winter recreation activities including skiing, snowboarding and sledding.

The Blue Mountains area boasts nearly every winter sport imaginable, as well as indoor activities in the historic village and local spas. So, whether you are looking to hit the slopes or want to pamper yourself, this road trip has those boxes checked.

Blue Mountain Village ski resort in the winter at dusk

How to get there: Take ON-400 north to ON-26 W to Collingwood, then take Mountain Rd (19) to the Blue Mountain Ski Resort.

Our highlights: The Blue Mountain area is not actually a mountain, but in fact the edge of the Niagara Escarpment which is one of Canada's UNESCO biosphere preserves, hence the stunning landscape.

Blue Mountain Ski Resort boasts 43 runs for skiing or snowboarding and a snowmaking system so you always have fresh powder. It also offers tubing, cross-country skiing and snowshoeing trails.

If skating is more your thing, Woodview Mountaintop Skating is a 1km loop on top of the “mountain” with views off the escarpment, accessed via the Scenic Caves Road. You can also take in the landscape from the suspension bridge at the Scenic Caves Nordic Center.

After you've worked up an appetite, Collingwood is a historic cultural town with quaint shops and dining options.

Bonus: Collingswood has multiple craft beverage breweries, from beer to kombucha and coffee houses - make sure to take a local tour to sample some!

Our travel tips: Look out for scenic drives along Pretty River Provincial Park, Eugenia Falls and along Highway 26.

5. Muskoka Lake and Bracebridge, ON

2 hours 15 minutes from Toronto (200 km)

Why you should visit: This nearby region is only a short hop from Toronto and offers a range of unique winter activities in a stunning setting.

The Muskoka region is known for its natural scenery and is the closest natural wilderness to Toronto, featuring crystal lakes, pine forests and rocky shorelines.

The Little Falls Cottage country area Washago Muskoka County. Lake area in winter

How to get there: Head north on ON-400 out of Toronto and onto ON-11 to Muskoka District Road to reach Bracebridge. Lake Muskoka is to the west of Bracebridge and has multiple access points.

Our highlights: During the winter you can visit Santa's Village, a Christmas-themed amusement park with a petting zoo, rides for kids (and big kids!), and a zip line.

Muskoka Lake Farm and Winery is situated directly on the lake - you can fly around their unique ice-skating trail on a bed of frozen cranberries before enjoying some local wine and cheese by the fire.

Go ice-fishing on Lake Muskoka or Three Mile Lake, with many outfitters and companies in the area offering packages including snowmobile tours.

You can also take a romantic horse-drawn carriage ride at Twin Maples Farm, which is located south of Bracebridge.

Bonus: The town is exactly halfway between the equator and the North Pole, which is the inspiration behind the Santa's Village Theme Park.

Our travel tips: Book Santa's Village in advance, as it's open only on weekends from November through December. For New Year's Eve they hold a ‘Partybration' on December 31!

Click here to skip back to the top.

Weekend trips (3-6 hours each way)

Getting a bit further out of Toronto offers an even greater range of outdoor winter activities, but you'll also find towns with significant cultural heritage, spas and festive experiences.

Whatever your speed, what these weekend trips have in common are stunning scenery and cozy places to unwind after a day in the snow.

6. Huntsville and Algonquin Provincial Park, ON

3 hours 10 minutes from Toronto (300 km)

Why you should visit: This untouched region houses spectacular waterfall scenery in a remote setting, with the chance to encounter local wildlife.

Away from the city and well-traveled areas, this haven of solitude has a plethora of outdoor adventures on its doorstep, such as world-class skiing, snowmobiling and dog sledding.

Red Fox sitting in the snow in Algonquin Provincial Park, Ontario

How to get there: Head north out of the city on ON-400 N and ON-11 and take exit 219 to Huntsville. From Huntsville, head east on Muskoka District Road 3 to ON-60 east towards Ottawa via Algonquin Park.

Our highlights: There are a whole host of snow sports on offer in Algonquin Provincial Park, including snowmobiles, hiking, skiing, snowshoeing or biking around the old railway trail. There are plenty of outfitters in Huntsville who can get you kitted up.

Winter camping is allowed in the park, or you can rent a yurt. There is plenty of wildlife to encounter, including moose and bears if you're lucky!

You can stay at Deerhurst Resort or Hidden Valley Resort to access the Hidden Valley Highlands ski area, which has lots of options for ski-and-stay packages, with runs for all levels and ski schools for kids.

If you've still got the energy, there's an ice-skating trail and cross-country skiing trail within Arrowhead Provincial Park north of Huntsville

Bonus: You can go dog sledding through the snowy forest north of Huntsville - make sure to book ahead.

Our travel tips: Winter in the Wild Festival in Algonquin takes place in mid-February, so visit then for indoor and outdoor events throughout the park.

7. Lake Nipissing, ON

3 hours 30 minutes from Toronto (350 km)

Why you should visit: This trip is the furthest north from Toronto, and it is worth the longer travel distance to see the beautiful Lake Nipissing and explore the surrounding wilderness.

Lake Nipissing is a fisherman's paradise and a great place to try your hand at ice fishing. It contains over 40 species of fish and attracts keen anglers from all over.

Grand Lake or Lake Nipissing at dusk close to Algonquin Provincial Park

How to get there: Head north out of the city on ON-400 and exit slightly east to ON-11. Head north to Powassan and from there head west on ON-534 to Nipissing.

Our highlights: There are plenty of lodges that can gear you up with bait and tackle for a day of ice fishing on the lake. The lake itself is only 4.5m deep but can get choppy, so make sure you check the weather ahead of your trip.

Local fishing hot spots include Callander Bay, Smith Island, Deep Bay, and Nipissing Beach.

Once you've seen your fill of fish, there are lots of other wildlife to spot - moose, wolves, bald eagles, ospreys, ducks and loons can all be found along the shores of the lake for the keen observer.

There are many small towns and communities that border the lake, many of which are worth visiting to eat fresh fish. North Bay is the largest lakeside city that offers the most dining and overnight options.

Bonus: Try and spot Manitou Islands Provincial Park in the middle of the lake – these mysterious islands are said to be haunted by ancient people. You can catch a glimpse of the islands from Highway 17.

Our travel tips: Ice fishing season generally starts around New Year's Day and continues while the lake is frozen until mid to late April.

8. Kingston and Morrisburg, ON

4 hours 10 minutes from Toronto (400 km)

Why you should visit: Take this trip to discover the host of islands along the St Lawrence River, many of which light up for the festive season. This trip takes you on a rustic drive through stunning island scenery and with the opportunity to discover historic sites and museums.

Man in period costume with horse drawn carriage at Ontario Open Air Museum, Morrisburg

How to get there: Head east out of the city on ON-401 to Kingston. Continue on ON-401 and take exit 758 south towards Morrisburg and the Upper Canada Village on County Road 2.

Our highlights: There are literally thousands of islands in the Lawrence River that you could spend days exploring. There are boat trips during which you can see the mansions and cottages atop this unique archipelago, which stretches from Kingston to Morrisburg.

Upper Canada Village is a living history museum that travels back in time to 1866. There are over 40 historical sites to explore and you can speak with interpreters about early English Canadian lifestyle.

During winter, the Alight at Night festival transforms the village into a winter wonderland.

If you're into history, Kingston is home to several significant sites such as Fort Henry (built to protect the navy dock during the War of 1812), the Grand Theater, Penitentiary, Royal Military Museum, and Bellevue House.

Bonus: The famous Thousand Island salad dressing gets its name from this group of islands, though no one is quite sure how it originated.

Our travel tips: The drive along CR 2 following the St Lawrence River is highly scenic, but can move slowly in winter weather.

9. Ottawa, ON

4 hours 50 minutes from Toronto (450 km)

Why you should visit: Ottawa is the capital of Canada and a smaller city that offers its own unique charm away from the bustle of Toronto. In winter, this charming city is blanketed in snow and transforms into a stunning winter wonderland with quintessential northern charm.

Ottawa in winter at dusk with a purple-hued sky and the water in the foreground

How to get there: On this road trip from Toronto to Ottawa , head east out of the city on ON-401 E and turn north on ON-416 N to Ottawa. Take exit 120 from the Trans-Canada Highway/ON-417 to reach the city.

Our highlights: The Winterlude Festival takes place in February, a region-wide celebration of Canadian winter activities including dining and culinary experiences, ice sculpture contests, concerts and a giant snow playground in the middle of the city!

Ottawa is a multicultural city with influences from the First Nations, French, Irish, Scottish, and English so there is a huge diversity of cuisines. With an abundance of surrounding agriculture, you'll also find many local farm-to-market eateries and wineries.

If you want to get active, there are natural skiing areas just outside of Ottawa at the Chelsea Nordic Ski Club, or you can ice skate on the frozen Rideau Canal - a UNESCO world heritage site.

As the nation's capital, the city boasts seven major national museums displaying art, history, science, and military objects. You can also see the government buildings where Canada's parliament meets or visit the Notre Dame Cathedral Basilica built in the 1800s.

Bonus: The largest spa in North America is actually in Ottawa - visit Nordik Spa Nature for a Scandinavian-inspired retreat and the only saltwater floating pool in Canada!

Our travel tips: Don't miss the Christmas lights around Ottawa leading up to the holiday weekend, while Winterlude takes place for the whole month of February.

READ MORE - Road Trip from Toronto to Ottawa

Longer trips (6+ hours each way)

If you're keen to head slightly further afield, there are a whole host of cities within reach that each offer their own charm. From high-end shopping and bright lights to foodie capitals and historic markets, there are plenty of rich destinations to set your sights on from Toronto.

10. Montreal and Mont-Tremblant

7 hours from Toronto (670 km)

Why you should visit: Winter is the tourism off-season in Montreal, meaning fewer crowds at the Christmas markets and amazing restaurants - it's also the food capital of Canada!

Montreal and Mont-Tremblant are in close proximity, meaning you can get your culture and foodie fix before heading up to the picturesque ski resort for a winter getaway on this winter-wonderland road trip .

Mont Tremblant Village, Quebec with chairlift coming down the mountain

How to get there: Head east out of the city on ON-401 to Montreal. From Montreal, head north on Autoroute 15 to Trans Canada Highway and then follow QC-117 to Sainte-Agathe-des-Monts. Head north from Mont-Tremblant on Mnt Ryan towards the Mont-Tremblant Ski Resort.

Our highlights: Old Montreal is a delight in the winter - get in the spirit at the downtown Christmas festival with sparkling lights, Christmas markets, ice skating and a Ferris wheel.

The city's namesake Mount Royal is a fun place to go sledding tubing or snowshoeing through the forest, and a great spot to catch a vista of the whole city.

For a unique spa experience, visit Bota Bota - a converted steamboat in Montreal - Scandinave Spa Vieux-Montréal or Ono Spa Tremblant. All these spas offer traditional Scandinavian treatments and hot and cold water plunge pools.

At Mont-Tremblant resort you can ski, tube, snowboard and even hit the casino at this scenic ski resort at the edge of the Mont-Tremblant National Park.

Bonus: Montreal is known for its food scene, and a great way to learn more is to take a food tour that teaches you more about the history, cultures, and cuisines on offer.

Our travel tips: Montreal is French-speaking, so you might want to brush up on your language skills in advance to fit in with the locals!

READ MORE - Road Trip from Toronto to Montreal

11. Stowe, VT

7 hours 40 minutes from Toronto (740 km)

Why you should visit: Winter brings a quiet beauty to the mountains of Vermont that's worth braving the cold for.

Stowe is one of the most established skiing areas in North America and has extensive facilities for all levels, while still maintaining its small-town charm and scenic beauty.

Festive traditional shop front on Main Street in Stowe, VT at Christmas time

How to get there: Take ON-401 east toward Montreal. Cross into the USA via A 15 S and take I-89 south to Burlington. From Burlington head south on I-89 towards Montpellier and take exit 10 on VT-100 toward Stowe. Head up VT 108 to Stowe Mountain

Our highlights: Stowe Mountain Ski Resort will cater to all of your winter sports and recreation needs. The surrounding area also features activities like dog sledding, snowmobiling, biking and sleigh rides.

Downtown Stowe is straight out of a storybook, with cute shops, cafes, breweries, bars, and hotels. It's at its best when decked out for the holidays with lights and greenery, and you can visit Church Street Winter Marketplace in Burlington for festive food and drinks.

Bonus: On the way to Stowe, stop by the Ben and Jerry's Ice Cream Factory in Waterbury for a tour and a pint.

Our travel tips: If you find Stowe Resort is too crowded, you can try Bolton Valley Resort on the west side of the mountain.

12. New York City, NY

8 hours 30 minutes from Toronto (760 km)

Why you should visit: New York City is a classic trip all year round but is particularly spectacular in winter when it is lit up for the festive season.

New York City is a metropolis known for its endless shopping opportunities, food scene and nightlife. It's also world-famous for its Christmas celebrations - with trees, lights and countless Christmas movies set on its streets.

Rockefeller Center decorated for the holidays, with festive lights at night time

How to get there: Take Queen Elizabeth Way, ON-403 W, to Buffalo, NY. Take I-190 and NY-400 south to Aurora, NY. Head south on I-390, I-86, NY-17E, I-81 and I-380 to I-80, I-280 into Newark, NJ. Cross the Hudson River via the Holland Tunnel in Jersey City into Manhattan.

Our highlights: It wouldn't be New York without a trip to Fifth Avenue, the most famous shopping street in the city with luxury brands and storefronts straight out of the magazines. Take the opportunity to do some Christmas shopping or stare at the famous window displays.

Become a Christmas cliché by visiting the Rockefeller Christmas Tree and ice skating in the plaza or booking a seat at the Radio City Christmas Spectacular. There are also festive markets to visit at Bryant Park, Dyker Heights and Union Square.

The famous Times Square New Year's Eve Party takes place every year, featuring celebrity performances, the legendary ball drop, and TV specials broadcast worldwide.

For something more low-key, Lower East Side Orchard Street has art galleries, museums, and eclectic shops to browse. To round off the day, take in a Broadway show!

Bonus: The Rockefeller Christmas Tree is lit on Dec 1 with over 50,000 lights.

Our travel tips: Get your Broadway tickets in advance or try your luck at the red TKTS booths for same-day tickets.

New York is especially busy near the holidays, so make sure to book accommodations and attractions early if possible. If you'd like to learn more about the best areas to stay in NYC before you plan your trip, you can find our detailed area-by-area guide here .

READ MORE - Road Trip from Toronto to New York

13. Trois Rivières and Quebec City, QC

8 hours from Toronto (810 km)

Why you should visit: Quebec is the farthest Canadian city from Toronto by distance but is a charming destination for exploring the heart of French-Canadian culture.

Quebec City's old town is particularly charming in the winter, when it is covered in snow and festooned with Christmas lights and decorations.

Laviolette Bridge, spanning the St Lawrence River near Trois-Rivieres during winter, with ice on the river

How to get there: Take ON-401 E toward Montreal. Continue East on A 20 through Trois-Rivières, Quebec, Canada and onto Quebec City.

Our highlights: Celebrate at the Quebec Winter Carnival from Jan-Feb each year, with drinks, games, shows and shopping - make sure to visit the sugar shacks and eat maple syrup rolled on top of the snow!

Spend the night at the Hôtel de Glace, a hotel constructed fully from ice every January to March. You can also drop by for a visit and have a drink in the ice bar or explore the surrounding park.

The Quebec City Christmas Market is a German-inspired outdoor market from November up until Christmas. German meets French culture in the food and drink on offer - sample a glühwein and a vin chaud!

Trois-Rivieres is the oldest city in Quebec and offers a historical display of 17th-century architecture. Named for its three rivers, this town is filled with picturesque streets, manors, prisons, churches and museums to visit.

Bonus: Quebec City's toboggan run is one of the oldest attractions in the city, built in 1884. Old doesn't mean slow - you can reach speeds of up to 70km/hr as you slide down the luge track!

Our travel tips: If you want to get out of the city and into nature, you can cross the St Lawrence River to access the Lac-Saint-Pierre Biosphere Reserve.

READ MORE - Road Trip from Toronto to Quebec City

14. New Orleans, LA

22 hours 10 minutes from Toronto (2,240 km)

Why you should visit: Avoid the crowds by visiting New Orleans in the winter months when they still have warmer weather compared to chilly Toronto.

The winter months in New Orleans play host to festive celebrations, and you can still get fresh seafood no matter what time of the year!

Holiday decorations in New Orleans' French Quarter at night, with taillights streaking by

How to get there: Take ON-403 and ON-401 west out of the city towards Detroit, MI. Take I-75 S to Cincinnati, and take I-71 S to Louisville, KY. Take I-65 S to Nashville, TN and follow I-40 west to Memphis, TN, then head south on I-55 to New Orleans, LA.

Our highlights: On the way to New Orleans , make sure to stop in Nashville or Memphis, TN, both home to live music and great southern food.

Once you arrive, hit the Christmas Market in Jackson Square, or the Deutsches Haus Christkindlmarkt for a German-inspired festive shopping experience.

If you're in New Orleans for New Year's Eve, head to Bourbon Street or any of the private parties and galas throughout the city, including on the riverboats!

The famous Mardi Gras celebrations take place in February, but in the weeks leading up to the official event there are countless parties and parades to get into the spirit of things!

Bonus: Mardi Gras means ‘Fat Tuesday', and usually takes place in early February, 40 days before the start of Easter.

Our travel tips: Along the way, you could stop in Louisville, KY to sample and shop for their famous bourbons.

READ MORE - Road Trip from Toronto to New Orleans

15. Orlando and Miami, FL

23 hours 20 minutes from Toronto (2,400 km)

Why you should visit: Escape the cold weather for good and drive in a straight line south - all the way to Florida !

Florida boasts warm weather all year round - it's possible to swim in the ocean even in December. Orlando's famous theme parks are specially decorated for the festive season, and they play host to a range of holiday events.

View of Orlando skyline with holiday decorations on palm trees at sunset

How to get there: Take Queen Elizabeth Way, ON-403 W to Buffalo. From there take I-90 S to I-79 S towards Pittsburg, PA. Take I-77 S (via state highway 19 in Virginia) to Columbia NC. Take I-26 Southeast to meet I-95 S to Jacksonville, FL.

Follow I-95 South to Miami, or detour via I-4 and the Florida Turnpike through Orlando.

Our highlights: En route, make sure to take a break in the Appalachian and Blue Ridge Mountains to experience the fantastic hiking trails and dramatic scenery. There are plenty of other cities worth a stop, including Pittsburg, PN, Charlotte, NC and Savannah, GA.

In Florida, visit the rocket launch pad at Cape Canaveral, or visit the Kennedy Space Center, home of NASA. Get your fill of nightclubs, food and beaches in Fort Lauderdale, West Palm Beach and Miami, or go surfing at Cocoa Beach.

Walt Disney World Resort and Universal Studios are especially festive during the holidays, particularly if you want to experience Christmas at Hogwarts. You could easily spend a few days here before continuing to Miami.

Bonus: Florida is actually home to one million wintertime residents, people who only stay during winter and migrate back north for other seasons.

Our travel tips: This drive has many different route options, so we'd recommend taking at least 3 days to complete the drive - more if you want time to explore more places on the way!

You could also add detours onto the route to visit other destinations such as Asheville, NC, Charleston, SC, Hilton Head Island and Jekyll Island.

READ MORE - Road Trip from Toronto to Orlando

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Road trip from Toronto through Algonquin Provincial Park in the fall in Ontario, Canada

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21 COOLEST TOURS in Toronto [2023!]

Toronto is one of the best-known cities in the friendly country of Canada. The cosmopolitan city is bustling with excitement and fabulous things to do. Regardless of your interests, Toronto is sure to provide!

From discovering fascinating art, tasting flavorsome foods, and partying until the early hours of the morning, Toronto has it all! With so much to choose from, you can easily get overwhelmed with the wide variety of fun things to do. That’s where we come in!

This article highlights some of the best tours in Toronto to keep your schedule busy and your heart full!

• The 21 Best Tours in Toronto •

#1 – harbor & islands sightseeing cruise.

Harbor & Islands Sightseeing Cruise

  • Embrace incredible views of Toronto’s skyline
  • Discover the fascinating history of the islands and the harbor

The cruise of Toronto Harbor is an unforgettable experience! Enjoy a tranquil alternative to the bustling city, and take advantage of the wonderful photographic opportunities as you cruise by the best views of the Toronto skyline.

While relaxing on the water, you’ll also discover various sites and learn about the history of the area. By the end of the historic tour, you can tick off Hanlan’s Point, the Island Yacht Club and the woodlands of the Island Bird and Wildlife Sanctuary!

Before your trip, find out about Toronto’s best hostels !

#2 – Secret Beer & Brewery Tour

Secret Beer & Brewery Tour

  • Visit Toronto’s secret breweries and taste the best craft beers!
  • Be educated on the process of brewing beer

Toronto has a booming craft beer industry, and a Toronto tour to the city’s best breweries is a must-do for any beer-lover! This ‘secret beer and brewery tour’ guides travelers to the city’s hidden gems in the East End, offering a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.

In addition to tasting the finest craft beer that Toronto has to offer, the tour also provides the opportunity to learn how beer is brewed, and learn about the equipment that is used in the process!

Have some time? Get out of the city with these epic day trips from Toronto !

#3 – Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada

Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada

  • 1-day validity
  • Experience touch exhibits and daily live dive shows!
  • Discover 9 different galleries that house 20,000 aquatic animals!

Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada offers an unparalleled marine adventure! Booking in advance will allow you to skip the ticket line and beat the summer crowds that flock to the main attraction.

The underwater haven is home to over 20,000 aquatic animals to marvel at in awe. Weave through the underwater tunnel as sharks glide overhead, and enjoy touch exhibits and daily dive shows. This is the perfect day out for the whole family!

Need more info? Here’s a rundown of things to do in Toronto to fill your time there!

#4 – Hop-On Hop-Off Toronto Sightseeing Bus Tour

Hop-On Hop-Off Toronto Sightseeing Bus Tour

  • 2-day validity
  • Discover the famous CN tower!
  • Enjoy unlimited access to 20 different stops along the way!

The Hop-On Hop-Off Toronto sightseeing bus is the perfect way for travelers to discover Toronto in one quick sweep. The ticket offers unlimited 48-hour access to the bus which stops at 20 different spots along the route.

Enjoy a ride past the famous CN Tower, Toronto’s famous Chinatown and the Art Gallery of Ontario, to the Bata Shoe Museum and a cruise at the harbor. Once onboard, you’ll have access to Toronto’s top historical and contemporary attractions!

Canada is amazing! And these spots to see in Canada are unmissable!

#5 – Royal Ontario Museum

Royal Ontario Museum

  • Visit Canada’s largest museum of art, culture, and nature!
  • Explore a Ming Dynasty tomb and rare dinosaur skeletons!

The Royal Ontario Museum has a fascinating reputation around the world as it showcases how the earth and its cultures have evolved over time. From galleries of dinosaurs and ancient Egypt to minerals and gems – the museum has it all!

Make sure that you wear comfortable shoes because the museum has a lot to explore! With 16 must-see treasures, visitors are in for a real treat!

Will you also visit Edmonton? Check out where we like to stay in Edmonton, Canada !

#6 – City Sightseeing Helicopter Tour

City Sightseeing Helicopter Tour

  • 7 – 12 minutes
  • Indulge in a spectacular bird’s eye view of Toronto
  • Avoid the congestion of the streets and soar over skyscrapers

There are many tours in Toronto, but none that offer such an incredible view! Choose between the 15-kilometer or 35-kilometer tour from the sky.

Swoop past the CN Tower, marvel at the iconic shark imagery at Ripley’s Aquarium and stand the chance of glimpsing the mist of Niagara Falls (on a clear day)! A scenic helicopter ride over Toronto is a huge treat – and one that is well worth the cost!

Looking for a deal? Our recommended budget hostels in Toronto won’t break the bank!

#7 – Toronto Haunted Night Walking Tour

Toronto Haunted Night Walking Tour

  • Discover the darker side of Toronto on a night tour!
  • Pick from three guided tour options

If ghosts, graveyards, and haunted spots get you excited, then this is the perfect tour for you! Listen to chilling stories that make up the darker, more mysterious, side of Toronto’s history.

Choose between the Haunted Walk, the Campus Secrets, and Spectres, or the Ghosts and Spirits of the Distillery.

Follow the cloaked tour guide through the town and listen as they share whispered secrets from Toronto’s history. While the tour is fully outdoors, they will continue come rain or shine.

Like something more boutique? Save some money with our guide to the best boutique hotels in Toronto !

#8 – Niagara Falls Day Trip

Niagara Falls Day Trip

  • Marvel at the profound beauty of the world-renowned Niagara Falls!
  • Sip on local wines at an award-winning winery

If a visit to the Niagara Falls is not on your bucket list – it should be! This trip is one of the most incredible tour packages from Toronto that promises an unforgettable day out. The scenic trip to the breathtaking Niagara Falls is just the tip of the iceberg.

You can also expect to learn about the area from a local guide, taste award-winning local wines, and visit Niagara-on-the-lake! There is also the option to upgrade your experience to include a boat tour to Niagara Falls or a ticket to Skylon Tower.

Want to book a Villa? Have a look at the best villas in St. John’s !

#9 – Guided Food Tour

Guided Food Tour

  • 3 – 4 hours
  • Savor delicious flavors that are found in Toronto
  • Gain insight into some of Toronto’s most eclectic neighborhoods!

Choose from three delicious food tour options. The St. Lawrence Market and Old Toronto offer 14 delicacies in one of the world’s best food markets. Kensington Market serves various dishes of international flavors, and Old Chinatown boasts the ultimate lunchtime food tour.

Each tour offers the opportunity to taste locally-made flavors from around the world! Your tastebuds will love you forever!

Enjoy Canada? Explore staying long-term in the country.

#10 – Scenic Guided Bicycle Tour

Scenic Guided Bicycle Tour

  • Escape the bustle of the city on the back of a bike
  • An enriching experience that shares perspective on the city’s layout

This scenic bike ride is one of the best tours in Toronto! Hop onto the back of a bike and escape the busyness of the city. With the help of a local guide, you’ll spend the next three hours discovering where things are in the city, and how it is laid out, from a different perspective!

Enjoy the green spaces, local artwork and bike paths that the city provides. Choose between the Harbor Views, the Island and Historic Distillery District Tour, or the Midtown, Brickworks and Distillery Tour – both of which are epic!

Still haven’t booked for Prince Edward County? Find out where to stay in Prince Edward County  for any type of trip!

#11 – New York Times Journeys Walking Tour

New York Times Journeys Walking Tour

  • Venture through ‘The New York Times’ travel column itinerary
  • Discover the heart of Toronto and epicenter of the city’s culture

‘The New York Times’ world-famous “36 Hours” travel column has been transformed into a Toronto itinerary. From the Queen West’s tantalizing food scene and vibrant street culture to tasting beer at a bar that once served the Rolling Stones – this tour will leave you grinning from ear to ear.

Take note that due to the activities involved in this tour, travelers under the age of 19 are not permitted to join.

Will you also visit Niagara Falls? Check out where we like to stay in Niagara Falls !

#12 – Full-Day Niagara Winery Tour

Full-Day Niagara Winery Tour

  • Indulge in a full-day winery tour from Toronto
  • Visit the chocolate factory!

This tour dedicates the day to discovering an estate’s winery facilities and winemaking process before indulging in wine tasting at three different wineries.

In addition to sampling the finest wine in the Niagara region, you can also expect to visit the Niagara-on-the-Lake township and a chocolate factory with free chocolate samples!

#13 – Art Gallery of Ontario Tour

Art Gallery of Ontario Tour

  • Wander through one of the best galleries in North America!
  • Discover premier collections of Indigenous and local Canadian art!

If you are an art-lover, then the Art Gallery of Ontario is a must-do! Stroll through one of the continent’s best art galleries, and discover fascinating contemporary exhibitions and special installations. The AGO collection features more than 100,000 world-class works of art from both indigenous, Inuit, Métis and local Canadian artists!

Make sure that you stop by the AGOBistro or CaféAGO for a tasty snack and drink if you need a half-time break! If you are 25 years or younger – admission is free!

#14 – Private Walking Tour With a Local

Private Walking Tour With a Local

  • 2 – 5 hours
  • Experience the city of Toronto from the vantage point of a local
  • Embrace a truly authentic experience of Toronto’s must-see attractions!

There’s no better way to experience Toronto than with a fun-seeking local guide! A private walking tour allows you to customize your preferences and explore the parts of the city that tickle your fancy.

Discover the must-see attractions of Toronto with the help of a friendly and knowledgeable guide who will walk you through the city streets! Learn about the city through the stories of the locals, bonding over shared experiences!

#15 – Kensington Market & Chinatown Tour

Kensington Market & Chinatown Tour

  • Explore Toronto’s colorful and multicultural district of Chinatown and Kensington Market!
  • Discover amazing graffiti art in hidden lanes and alleys

Kensington Market and Chinatown are two of Toronto’s most lively and colorful districts. The charming streets are full of vibrant sounds, flavors, and colors waiting to be explored! Uncover the history of the area as you wander through the streets with a professional guide.

Look out for the bold graffiti-covered walls along the way, and take the opportunity to taste the different foods from the vendors in Kensington Market. Keep your eyes peeled for a unique gift – this is the perfect place to find one!

#16 – Bata Shoe Museum

Bata Shoe Museum

  • Uncover 4,500 years of footwear history!
  • Stroll through fascinating exhibitions that are entertaining for visitors of all ages!

You don’t even have to love shoes to enjoy a visit to the Bata Shoe Museum! The Bata Shoe Museum is considered a cultural treasure and is known around the world for its groundbreaking exhibitions.

Boasting over 4,500 years of footwear history in four innovative gallery spaces, the rotating exhibitions of the museum promise an enriching experience. From footwear during the era of the Depression to glittering shoes and traditional Arctic footwear – Bata Shoe Museum is full of wonders!

#17 – Private Wine Tasting Tour

Private Wine Tasting Tour

  • A private wine tasting experience with a CMS-certified sommelier!
  • Learn the art of wine tasting paired with cheese and snacks

A private wine tasting tour with a sommelier is an experience that far surpasses other Toronto tour packages! The intimacy, education, and flavors experienced during the tour make it the perfect activity for couples.

Under the instruction of a CMS-certified sommelier, you can expect to enjoy a tasting of his private collection while pairing wine with delicious cheese and snacks!

#18 – Evening Sightseeing Tour

Evening Sightseeing Tour

  • Enjoy an unforgettable tour of Toronto after dark!
  • Watch the sun dip behind the horizon from the top of the CN Tower!

If you are a night owl, then this is the perfect tour for you! The evening sightseeing tour showcases an illuminated Toronto in the best light. Start off by watching the sunset from the top of the CN Tower (without worrying about CN Tower tickets) before experiencing the nightlife of Toronto’s vibrant downtown areas.

The tour also stops past popular attractions such as Yonge-Dundas Square and the Toronto Sign! The night ends with a panoramic hilltop view of the glittering city before hitting the town’s recommended spots!

#19 – Heart of Downtown Bike Tour

Heart of Downtown Bike Tour

  • Get a feel for Toronto on the back seat of a bike!
  • Explore areas that are not easily reached by a vehicle!

Downtown Toronto is bustling with action! The area is full of must-see cultural and historical landmarks that are just waiting to be explored – some of which can’t be reached by car or bus.

A bike tour of Downtown Toronto is the perfect way to get up close to the CN Tower , Royal York Hotel, Union Station and Dundas Square – amongst many other spots! This tour is a great way to zoom past Toronto’s key attractions, highlighting the ones that you want to return to later!

#20 – Small-Group City Tour

Small-Group City Tour

  • Discover Toronto in an intimate and small group
  • Enjoy the undivided attention of guide as you visit key attractions

A small group city tour is the perfect way to explore the city comfortably. Enjoy the full attention of your guide as you weave through the streets, and past main attractions, from the comfort of a vehicle.

You can expect to go past Fort York, the CN Tower, Queen’s Quay, Riverdale Park and the University of Toronto – among many, many more interesting sights!

#21 – Distillery District Segway Tour

Distillery District Segway Tour

  • A unique way to discover the historic Distillery District in Toronto
  • Experience a thrilling ride on a Segway!

The Distillery District in Toronto is a must-visit area, filled with incredible history and architecture. What better way to explore the fascinating area than on a segway! Enjoy the thrill of rushing through what was once the largest whiskey distillery in the British Empire from the back of a segway!

Before the tour, you’ll get a thorough breakdown on how to ride the Segway and learn how the machine works. The tour is perfect for beginners and anyone looking for a fun experience!

With so much to do and see in Toronto, you no doubt have a few questions burning in your mind! Here we try to answer a few of them!

How Do I Book A Toronto tour?

There are several tour providers in Toronto that promise unforgettable experiences in the city. The best way to book a tour is through GetYourGuide.com . They offer a diverse range of activities and have a very detailed review system to help you make your pick!

What Should I Pack For A Tour In Toronto?

The most important thing to pack for a tour in Toronto is comfortable shoes, as you can bet your bottom dollar that you’ll be doing a lot of walking! Summer can get very hot in Toronto, and winters can get very cold – so make sure that you dress for the weather!

How Much Do Tours In Toronto Typically Cost?

Regardless of your budget, you will be able to find a tour that suits your pocket! The average cost of the above-mentioned tours are between $33 USD to $67 USD, but you can book tours from as little as $11 USD or as much as $99 USD.

How Long Do Tours In Toronto Last?

Again, there are a variety of tours to best suit your preferences. Take your pick from a full-day tour, a half-day tour or a tour that only lasts a couple of hours!

Toronto is a city full of fascinating treasures just waiting to be explored. Boasting a variety of cultural influences, fascinating history, and world-renowned cuisine, you can expect an unforgettable trip!

Booking a tour is a sure way to get everything that you want out of the city. There’s nothing quite like a local guide to give you a taste of what the city has to offer, allowing you to go back for seconds when you wish. Whether you are in Toronto for a long time or only a day, a tour is a great option!

***Disclaimer*** Some of the links in this post are affiliate links. This means that if you book your accommodation through the site, One Weird Globe will earn a small commission at no extra cost to you . Your support helps me keep the site going :)

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Megan Thee Stallion Announces Long-Awaited “Hot Girl Summer” Global Tour with GloRilla as Special Guest

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Arena Tour Kicks Off May 14 With General On Sale Starting March 22 On Store.MeganTheeStallion.com

Today, three-time, Grammy award-winning superstar Megan Thee Stallion formally announced the “Hot Girl Summer Tour,” a 31-city worldwide trek produced by Live Nation that will feature a special Chicas Divertidas VIP section and include domestic stops in the U.S. and international performances across Europe.

Grammy-nominated artist GloRilla will serve as a special guest on the “Hot Girl Summer Tour,” which will mark Megan’s first-ever, headlining tour in arenas across the globe. The Memphis-born hitmaker, who has delivered award-winning hits such as “Tomorrow 2 (feat Cardi B),” “FNF” and “Yeah Glo!,” will join Megan on the domestic leg of the tour.

The tour will kick off on May 14 in Minneapolis and make stops at several major cities across the United States – including New York City, Los Angeles, Chicago, Philadelphia, a hometown performance in Houston and many more – before wrapping up in Las Vegas on June 22. The international leg of Megan’s tour will begin in Glasgow, Scotland on July 4 with additional shows in England, France, Germany and Ireland.

Tickets will be available starting with a Citi presale (details below) beginning on Wednesday, March 20. Additional presales including an artist Hotties presale will run throughout the week ahead of the general onsale beginning on Friday, March 22 at 10am local time on store.megantheestallion.com .

Citi is the official card of the Hot Girl Summer Tour. Citi cardmembers will have access to presale tickets for U.S. dates beginning Wednesday, March 20 at 1pm local time until Thursday, March 21 at 10pm local time through the Citi Entertainment program. For complete presale details visit www.citientertainment.com .

Fans can also purchase VIP Packages, which may include premium tickets, access to a VIP bar and cocktail service throughout the night, pre-show VIP Lounge, exclusive VIP merch item, early entry & more. VIP package contents vary based on offer selected. For more information, click HERE .

The tour comes after her latest song “HISS” debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 in February. “HISS” also became the first-ever, solo female rap song to debut No. 1 on the Billboard Global 200 and, as a result, Megan now owns the record for the biggest first week for a solo female rap song in history.

The achievement signified Megan’s third No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100, following her other chart-topping hits such as “Savage (Remix)” with Beyoncé and “WAP” with Cardi B. The song was Megan’s second solo release via Hot Girl Productions – her independent music and entertainment entity.

Earlier this year, Megan and  Warner Music Group  announced an innovative agreement that enabled the Houston native to maintain her independence as a musician while also having access to the music company’s robust global services, ranging from radio promotion to marketing worldwide. Through the unique structure of the agreement, Megan could release her music independently and still have distribution and resources with Warner Music, while having full ownership of her masters and publishing.

It’s the latest in a series of trailblazing milestones for Megan in 2024. Most recently, Planned Parenthood announced plans to honor Megan with the organization’s Catalyst for Change Award at its annual gala in New York City on April 16.

2024 HOT GIRL SUMMER WORLD TOUR DATES

May 14 – Minneapolis, MN – Target Center^

May 17 – Chicago, IL – United Center^

May 18 – Detroit, MI – Little Caesars Arena^

May 21 – New York, NY – Madison Square Garden^

May 22 – Philadelphia, PA – Wells Fargo Center^

May 24 – Napa, CA – BottleRock Napa Valley Festival*

May 26 – Boston, MA – Boston Calling Festival*

May 28 – Baltimore, MD – CFG Bank Arena^

May 30 – Memphis, TN – FedEx Forum^

Jun 1 – Atlanta, GA – State Farm Arena^

Jun 4 – Raleigh, NC – PNC Arena^

June 6 – Hollywood, FL – Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino^

Jun 8 – Tampa, FL – Amalie Arena^

Jun 10 – New Orleans, LA – Smoothie King Center^

Jun 11 – Dallas, TX – American Airlines Center^

Jun 13 – Austin, TX – Moody Center^

Jun 14 – Houston, TX – Toyota Center^

Jun 16 – Manchester, TN – Bonnaroo Music & Arts Festival*

Jun 17 – Denver, CO – Ball Arena^

Jun 19 – Phoenix, AZ – Footprint Center^

Jun 21 – Los Angeles, CA – Crypto.com Arena^

Jun 22 – Las Vegas, NV – MGM Grand Garden Arena^

Jul 4 – Glasgow, UK – OVO Hydro

Jul 5 – Manchester, UK – Co-op Live

Jul 7 – Paris, FR – Zenith

Jul 10 – Amsterdam, NL – Ziggo Dome

Jul 11 – Cologne, DE – Lanxess Arena

Jul 14 – Dublin, IE – 3Arena

Jul 16 – Birmingham, UK – Utilita Arena

Jul 17 – London, UK – The O2

Jul 27 – Washington DC – Broccoli City Festival*

^With Support From GloRilla

About Megan Thee Stallion

Hailing from Houston, Megan Thee Stallion is a three-time GRAMMY-winning recording artist, philanthropist and entrepreneur. She recently earned her third, Billboard Hot 100 No. 1 in Feb. 2024 with the release of her dynamic song “HISS,” which follows her other chart-topping hits such as “Savage (Remix)” with Beyoncé and “WAP” with Cardi B.

Megan has been recognized for her musical achievements, including three GRAMMY wins, nine BET Awards and multiple Billboard Music Awards for “Top Rap Female Artist.” Additionally, she has been honored for her advocacy efforts, having received the 2022 Special Achievement Award at The Webby Awards and the Trailblazer Award at the iHeartRadio Music Awards.

Megan made history in Nov. 2022, becoming the first Black woman to appear on the cover of Forbes’ prestigious Under 30 issue. She was previously recognized as one of TIME’s 100 Most Influential People of 2020 after publishing her monumental “Why I Speak Up For Black Women” op-ed for The New York Times.

About Live Nation Entertainment

Live Nation Entertainment (NYSE: LYV) is the world’s leading live entertainment company comprised of global market leaders: Ticketmaster, Live Nation Concerts, and Live Nation Sponsorship. For additional information, visit www.livenationentertainment.com .

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  1. 10 Best North America Tours & Trips from Toronto

    Español: Circuitos por América del Norte desde Toronto. Nederlands: Noord-Amerika Rondreizen die starten in Toronto. We have 62 North America tours from Toronto with 217 reviews. The most popular departure month is May. Book now and save with TourRadar.com!

  2. 53 Best Day Trips From Toronto (2024 Local Guide)

    Petroglyphs Provincial Park is one of the best day trips from Toronto for history buffs and nature lovers. The park is home to over 500 Indigenous rock carvings, as well as a variety of hiking trails. Toronto to Petroglyphs Provincial Park. 🚗 Drive: Petroglyphs Provincial Park is located on Highway 407 East.

  3. 16 Popular and Secret Weekend Trips from Toronto

    WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW. Address: 650 Governors Road, Dundas, ON, L9E 5E3. Hours: Daily sunrise to sundown. Trail Centre hours. Off Season Hours: September to June. Weekdays: Concession closed, building open for washrooms from 8:30AM to 3PM. Weekends: 8:30 AM to 4 PM.

  4. 11 Awesome Day Trips from Toronto

    From Toronto: Niagara Falls Day Tour with Boat Cruise. From $149 CAD, Duration: 9.5 hours. The first tour to make our list allows you to get up close and personal with the 51-meter waterfalls. This boat cruise and falls tour leaves from the city, and takes you through the beautiful Niagara Falls region.

  5. Weekend Getaways From Toronto

    The Rideau Canal in Ottawa. Ottawa. If you're looking to visit another city, Ottawa is an excellent choice. Located only four hours from Toronto, there are lots of fun things to do in Ottawa, including world-class museums, Parliament Hill, an underground bunker, rafting, the Rideau Canal, and even a helicopter tour of the city.The city is one of the most beautiful in Canada and is full of ...

  6. 15 Top-Rated Day Trips from Toronto

    7. Canada's Wonderland. Canada's Wonderland. Just an hour north of downtown Toronto, Canada's Wonderland is the country's premier amusement park, with some of the best roller coasters in Canada, along with other rides, games, circus shows, and the smell of candy and carnival food wafting through the air.

  7. Fun Bus Tours & Weekend Getaways

    Point Pelee National Park+ Rondeau Bird Migration Festival 2-Day Nature Tour. Pickup Locations: Scarborough, York Mills, Vaughan, Mississauga, Kitchener, London . More Info. May 19-21. 3-Day Ottawa Tulip Festival & Sightseeing Tour . Victoria Day Long Weekend. Pickup Locations: Vaughan, Mississauga, York Mills, Scarborough, Whitby .

  8. Tours Starting In Toronto

    Tours From Toronto Choose from 28 unique train journeys and coach tours starting in Toronto, and travelling to Halifax, Montreal, New York, Quebec City, Vancouver and more. July is the most popular month to join a tour from Toronto and you can select from 500 departures available from twelve leading tour operators.

  9. THE 10 BEST Toronto Tours & Excursions for 2024 (with Prices)

    16. Toronto Aerial Tour with Niagara Winery Tasting Tour with iflyTOTO. 31. Food & Drink. 5 hours. The five hour event provides you an opportunity to experience the most spectacular views of the Toronto landscape in our…. Free cancellation. Recommended by 93% of travelers. from.

  10. The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Toronto

    To begin planning your next trip, take a look at our top-rated list of tours departing from Toronto. Here are the important factors: 10 trip options analyzed. $263 average price per day (USD) 7 to 8 days in length. 4.27 of 5 average rating. 42 people or less on average.

  11. Algonquin Provincial Park Day Tour from Toronto

    Enjoy the beauty of Canada's oldest provincial park on a convenient day trip from Toronto. The forests, lakes, and sweeping views contrast with the busy-ness of Toronto. You'll spend time canoeing, hiking, swimming, and cliff diving (if you dare). This is an ideal tour for active travelers, especially groups of friends looking for a fun day out in nature.

  12. 12 Epic Short Trips From Toronto

    12. Embrace "Muskoka time" in cottage country. Muskoka is one of the classic short trips from Toronto. It is home to crystal blue lakes, gorgeous views of the Canadian shield, and a variety of local wildlife. Not only is the region wonderful, but the drive in is also incredible.

  13. FunTours

    Toronto FUN Tours operates award-winning bus tours from Toronto & the Greater Toronto Area (GTA). Follow us; Useful links. About Us; Tours; Calendar; Gallery; FAQ; Pay Balance; Contact Us +1 416-897-3020; [email protected]; Join Mailing List. Terms

  14. 23 Best Road Trips from Toronto for Summer 2023

    9. Wasaga Beach. 89 miles/143 km - 1.5 hours from Toronto. Take a short road trip to Wasaga Beach, one of the longest freshwater beaches in the world, located on the southern end of Georgian Bay. Enjoy the soft sandy beach, swim in the clear waters, and soak up the sun.

  15. The 12 Best Short Trips from Toronto in 2024

    The next entry on our list, and one of the most romantic short trips from Toronto, is Niagara-on-the-Lake. Situated in southern Ontario, right on the shores of Lake Ontario, this little town is famed for its wineries and welcoming atmosphere, and you can reach it in about an hour and a half from Toronto. A beautiful and one-of-a-kind small town ...

  16. Cheap Tours, Holiday Packages & Travel Deals from Toronto

    Departure City : Toronto ON Available Days : Highlights : Explore Thousand Island, Parliament Hill, Old Montreal, Cathedral-Basilica of Notre-Dame, Château Frontenac, Harvard University, Quincy Market, Wall Street, Ground Zero, Fifth Avenue, Statue of Liberty, Princeton University, Independence Hall, Amish Farm, White House, Lincoln Memorial, Capitol Hill, Corning Museum of Glass, Niagara ...

  17. 15 Best Winter Road Trips from Toronto

    2 hours 15 minutes from Toronto (200 km) Why you should visit: This nearby region is only a short hop from Toronto and offers a range of unique winter activities in a stunning setting. The Muskoka region is known for its natural scenery and is the closest natural wilderness to Toronto, featuring crystal lakes, pine forests and rocky shorelines.

  18. 19 Short Flights From Toronto for a Quick Getaway

    12. Charlotte, NC (2 hr flight) With just a 2 hour flight from Toronto, you can be soaking up the southern charm in Charlotte, North Carolina in no time. Check out the NASCAR Hall of Fame or take a stroll through the beautiful Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden.

  19. 21 COOLEST TOURS in Toronto [2023!]

    An epic bird's eye view of Toronto! $$$$. 7 - 12 minutes. Indulge in a spectacular bird's eye view of Toronto. Avoid the congestion of the streets and soar over skyscrapers. There are many tours in Toronto, but none that offer such an incredible view! Choose between the 15-kilometer or 35-kilometer tour from the sky.

  20. 15 Short Road Trips From Toronto To Do In A Single Weekend

    The 15 Best Short Road Trips From Toronto. 1. Niagara Falls. With one of the world's most famous waterfalls located just a short drive away, Niagara Falls makes for a perfect road trip from Toronto, whether visiting as a day trip or staying the weekend for an extended getaway. Located less than two hours from Ontario's capital city, the ...

  21. Megan Thee Stallion Announces Long-Awaited "Hot Girl Summer" Global

    Arena Tour Kicks Off May 14 With General On Sale Starting March 22 On Store.MeganTheeStallion.com. Today, three-time, Grammy award-winning superstar Megan Thee Stallion formally announced the "Hot Girl Summer Tour," a 31-city worldwide trek produced by Live Nation that will feature a special Chicas Divertidas VIP section and include domestic stops in the U.S. and international performances ...

  22. 72 Hours In Toronto: A Sports Lover's Guide

    Getting to Know Toronto Through Sports. Most people don't realize that Toronto is the 4th largest city in North America, behind only Mexico City, New York, and L.A.