In search of the finest day journeys from Toronto? Whether or not you’re craving waterfalls, wineries, seashores, or small cities, Ontario is full of unbelievable locations to discover only a brief drive from town. The most effective day journeys from Toronto embody Niagara Falls, Elora, Blue Mountain, and Prince Edward County, all inside 2 to three hours from town.
We’ve lived in Toronto and traveled throughout the province—and belief us, you don’t must go far to seek out journey. From mountain climbing trails alongside the Niagara Escarpment to paddling the Grand River or sipping wine in Prince Edward County, there’s a day journey right here for everybody.
Finest Toronto Day Journeys
Most of those locations are inside a 2-hour drive from Toronto, so you possibly can head out within the morning and be again dwelling in supper time. Should you’re brief on time however large on wanderlust, these are the highest 25 Toronto day journeys so as to add to your weekend plans.
1. Milton – Excellent Day Journey for Nature Lovers
Milton is considered one of our favourite simple day journeys from Toronto, and it’s solely about 40 minutes away. It’s the sort of place the place you possibly can go from metropolis site visitors to forest trails in below an hour. Once we want a fast escape into nature, that is the place we go.
The Kelso Conservation Space is a year-round spot for outside enjoyable. Within the winter, we’ve snowboarded and snowshoed right here, and in the summertime, it’s all about mountain climbing and mountain biking. There’s a improbable scenic lookout level on the high with sweeping views of the encircling rolling hills.
Milton sits proper on the Bruce Path, so the mountain climbing is improbable. One in all our go-to routes is the Lime Kiln Path. It’s quiet, peaceable, and off-limits to mountain bikes, which makes for a relaxed stroll within the woods.
Close by, you’ve acquired Rattlesnake Level and Mount Nemo. These spots are a dream for rock climbers and hikers. In order for you a difficult hike, you possibly can deal with the Satan’s Punchbowl.
2. Hamilton Waterfalls
Hamilton isn’t the primary place that involves thoughts once you consider waterfalls, however as soon as we found it, we have been hooked. With greater than 100 waterfalls scattered across the metropolis, it’s earned its nickname because the Waterfall Capital of the World—and it’s solely about an hour from Toronto.
A number of the best-known falls are Webster’s Falls, Albion Falls, and Tews Falls. Should you’ve acquired a full day, you possibly can simply slot in a couple of of them and nonetheless have time for a brewery cease or two on the town. Should you’re trying to find the picturesque Bridal Veil Falls, it’s price a slight detour.
Spencer Gorge Conservation Space presents unbelievable views, particularly in the course of the fall. We at all times advocate reserving your time slot forward. Throughout the summer season months, the paths can get busy with vacationers alike.
3. Blue Mountain
Blue Mountain is a little bit of a drive from Toronto—simply over two hours—however we’ve achieved it as a day journey extra occasions than we will rely. In winter, we’re normally snowboarding down the slopes, and in the summertime, it’s all about mountain climbing, biking, or simply wandering via Blue Mountain Village with an ice cream in hand.
Different sights round Blue Mountain embody the Scenic Caves in Collingwood, which was considered one of our first Toronto day journeys. There’s a suspension bridge, ziplining, and caves to discover. Close by scenic hikes provide guests a number of the finest views within the space.
Should you’re in want of a recharge, Scandinave Spa is a improbable place for a romantic getaway. Surrounded by forest, it’s the proper spot to soak, steam, and let the world fade away.
4. Ganaraska Forest
Positioned simply over an hour from town, Ganaraska Forest is an off-the-grid gem good for outside journey. We took a mud biking course with Path Excursions and have been shocked at how enjoyable and accessible it was. You can too lease canoes close by and luxuriate in quiet stretches of water.
Should you’re craving a little bit of journey, Ganaraska Forest is a wild approach to spend the day. Positioned simply over an hour from Toronto, it’s the place we went to get our first style of grime biking—and it didn’t disappoint. Learn all about it right here.
5. Ferris Provincial Park
About two hours from Toronto, Ferris Provincial Park is dwelling to the Ranney Gorge Suspension Bridge and a community of strolling trails that result in scenic picnic areas. It’s a type of locations that flies below the radar however is certainly price visiting.
This hidden gem is a quiet spot to flee the crowds, stretch your legs, and get some recent air—and the suspension bridge alone is well worth the drive.
6. Canada’s Wonderland
Positioned simply north of Toronto, Canada’s Wonderland is the amusement park of our youth—and our adrenaline-fueled grown-up escapes. With coasters, splash zones, and Canada’s largest wave pool, it’s a high decide for households visiting Toronto.
Should you’re an animal lover, don’t miss the petting zoo in KidZville. From thrill rides to enjoyable by the water, you possibly can simply spend a complete day right here.
7. Stratford
Stratford is considered one of Ontario’s most charming cities, and we’ve been making journeys right here for years. Identified for its Shakespearean theatre and romantic getaway vibes, the city additionally boasts native retailers, quaint cafés, a rose backyard, and wonderful artwork galleries.
There’s a powerful arts and culinary scene right here, too. Between the historic structure, boutique accommodations, and native meals markets, Stratford is a day journey that blends tradition and appeal with out attempting too arduous. And in the event you’re fortunate sufficient to catch a present, that’s the cherry on high.
8. Niagara Falls
Niagara Falls is a world-class vacation spot that’s surprisingly doable in a day. The Canadian aspect of Horseshoe Falls presents guests a more in-depth and extra highly effective view than the American Falls. From the CN Tower to the falls, that is the sort of day journey that also wows us, irrespective of what number of occasions we go.
Ebook a small group tour or lease a automobile and hit all of the highlights like Journey Behind the Falls, White Water Stroll, and the Niagara SkyWheel. While you’re achieved, stroll Clifton Hill or hop aboard the Hornblower cruise for up-close spray and selfies.
It’s solely 90 minutes away, and in the event you time it proper, you possibly can pack in a ton of experiences without having to remain in a single day.
Begin early. Dawn over the falls is underrated, and also you’ll beat the crowds. Examine Niagara Day Excursions Right here.
9. Niagara-on-the-Lake
This historic city on Lake Ontario presents small-town appeal, boutique wineries, and the enduring Shaw Pageant. Predominant Avenue is lined with quaint retailers and native cafes. Whether or not you’re exploring on foot or becoming a member of a wine area tasting tour, you’ll fall in love with the slower tempo.
Historical past buffs will love Fort George, and between the vineyards, the lake views, and the downtown heritage district, Niagara-on-the-Lake is the sort of place you’ll need to linger somewhat longer.
You possibly can simply mix a Niagara Falls journey with Niagara-on-the-Lake. They’re solely 20 minutes aside. You possibly can ebook day excursions to Niagara on the Lake and see its high sights.
10. Muskoka
With its rolling hills, glowing lakes, and iconic docks, Muskoka is the perfect outside exercise vacation spot. Lease canoes, pack a picnic, or simply benefit from the views. Throughout the fall, it turns into a painter’s palette of purple and gold. In summer season, Friday Harbour can be price a go to for lakeside eating and water sports activities.
It’s about two hours from Toronto, however when you’re there, you’ll really feel 1,000,000 miles away. Suppose winding roads, crystal-clear lakes, and that unmistakable scent of pine timber and campfires. We’ve spent complete days paddling on Lake Muskoka, mountain climbing via the woods, and searching down butter tarts in Gravenhurst
There are many cities to discover, too. Bracebridge, Huntsville, and Port Carling all have their very own appeal, with native cafés, breweries, and retailers price testing earlier than you head again to town.
11. Elora
Elora has at all times been a little bit of a secret spot, although it’s undoubtedly gaining in reputation—and for good cause. It’s solely about 90 minutes from Toronto, and it has a mixture of pure magnificence and small-town character that makes it good for a day journey.
Again in highschool, this was the place everybody went to flee for the afternoon. Now, it’s a cultured little city with boutiques, bakeries, and one critically lovely pedestrian sq. referred to as the Elora Mews. You’ll need to seize a espresso and simply wander.
The Elora Gorge is the actual showstopper. The cliffs tower above the Grand River and the mountain climbing trails offer you postcard-worthy views at each flip. Should you’re into tubing or kayaking, convey your gear or lease some on the town—it’s among the best spots for river adventures in southern Ontario.
And sure, the Elora Quarry has been in a couple of Hollywood films, nevertheless it’s even higher in individual.
12. Paris
We is likely to be somewhat biased, however Paris is among the prettiest small cities in Ontario, and now that we stay right here, we’ve gotten to know each path, river bend, and bakery. It’s simply over an hour from Toronto and makes for an ideal, low-key day journey.
The Grand River runs proper via city, and we’re typically out on it with our paddleboards or kayaks. After a couple of hours on the water, we’ll normally cease for lunch at Stillwaters or Camp 31, then stroll via the downtown strip to browse the retailers. It’s one road, nevertheless it packs a punch.
Should you’re a bicycle owner, convey your bike. You possibly can experience all the way in which to Brantford and even Ancaster alongside linked trails that weave via the countryside. And earlier than you allow, swing by the Wincey Mills Marketplace for native cheese, baked items, and small-batch the whole lot. It’s our go-to Saturday morning spot.
13. Brantford
Only a brief drive from Paris, Brantford has its personal tales to inform. It’s the place Alexander Graham Bell made the first-ever long-distance cellphone name—and you may go to the Bell Homestead to see the place all of it occurred. The home is fantastically preserved and surprisingly enjoyable to tour.
The Grand River flows via right here too, so tubing, kayaking, and riverside strolls are all on the desk. The paths between Paris and Brantford are a few of our favorites for biking.
And sure, there’s a on line casino in the event you’re feeling fortunate, however actually, the actual jackpot is spending a day exploring two river cities which have extra to supply than most individuals understand.
14. Hardwood Hills
Hardwood Hills is the place we go after we need to really feel like children once more—flying via the forest on mountain bikes, getting lined in grime, and laughing the entire means. It’s about 90 minutes from Toronto and it’s one of many high spots in Ontario for cross-country biking.
We’ve spent numerous days right here tackling the whole lot from mellow inexperienced trails to tight, rooty singletrack. Should you’re new to mountain biking, don’t fear. They lease gear and provide classes, so you possibly can ease into it. There’s even a warm-up loop to get your confidence up earlier than you hit the longer routes.
They’ve acquired a strong cafeteria too, so no must pack lunch. Simply convey your gear, seize a path map, and prepare for a full-body exercise that ends with a smile.
15. Caledon
Between the Cheltenham Badlands, Spirit Tree Cidery, and Albion Hills, Caledon is full of scenic hikes, strolling trails, and a terrific mixture of nature and meals. A rock backyard close to the conservation space even reminded us of one thing out of the Royal Botanical Gardens.
16. Kitchener Waterloo
With tech start-ups and conventional Mennonite tradition, Waterloo blends fashionable appeal with old-world values. Don’t miss the St. Jacobs Farmers Market is Canada’s largest year-round farmers’ market, or a go to to the African Lion Safari close by in the event you’re touring with children or animal lovers.
Kitchener-Waterloo has at all times flown somewhat below the radar, nevertheless it’s quietly turn into considered one of our favourite day journeys from Toronto. Simply over an hour away, this twin-city hub blends old-world appeal with cutting-edge innovation. You’ve acquired Google and Blackberry workplaces on one aspect of city and Mennonite markets and horse-drawn buggies on the opposite.
When you’re on the market, take a look at the Cambridge Butterfly Conservatory or take a stroll via the historic city of Galt. We’ve even cycled all the way in which right here from Paris alongside the Grand River trails—in the event you’re feeling formidable, it’s a wonderful experience.
17. Wasaga Seashore
Want a seaside break? Wasaga Seashore presents a protracted sandy shoreline and nice summer season power. Wasaga Seashore is a summer season traditional. It’s about an hour and 40 minutes from Toronto and residential to the longest freshwater seaside on the earth. 14 kilometers of sentimental sand and shallow, heat water. Once we’re within the temper for a correct seaside day with out driving all the way in which to a resort, that is the place we go.
You’ll discover a mixture of beachgoers, households constructing sandcastles, teenagers tossing frisbees, and paddleboarders cruising alongside the shoreline. It will get busy, particularly on weekends, however that’s a part of the vibe. Seize a chunk at a beachside diner, convey a cooler, and settle in for the afternoon.
18. Port Dover
Port Dover is a type of locations that also appears like a correct old-school seaside city. We used to drive right here from Toronto simply to get a sizzling canine at The Arbor and sit by the water. And actually, we’d nonetheless do it. In Port Dover, we love strolling the pier and visiting the Gibraltar Level Lighthouse duplicate. It’s acquired that traditional Ontario seaside city vibe.
The city has a chill vibe with a sandy seaside, a pier that’s good for sundown walks, and sufficient little retailers and cafés to maintain you busy. Should you’re into quirky finds, spend a while looking the native antiques and classic retailers.
We like to make use of Port Dover as a place to begin for a mini highway journey alongside Lake Erie. Drive to Turkey Level or Port Burwell, hit a couple of wineries or brewpubs, and fill up your bar at dwelling. It’s a laid-back day that at all times ends with full stomachs and clinking bottles within the trunk. Try TripAdvisor for an inventory of winery and breweries in Norfolk County.
19. Peterborough and the Kawarthas
Peterborough sits proper within the coronary heart of the Kawarthas, and in the event you’ve ever questioned what traditional Canadian cottage nation seems to be like, that is it. It’s about 90 minutes from Toronto, and there’s extra to do right here than you may anticipate.
We at all times make a degree of stopping by Lock 21, the world’s highest hydraulic raise lock. It sounds technical, nevertheless it’s really actually cool to observe boats rise and fall like they’re on a theme park experience. Should you’re into paddling, the Trent-Severn Waterway is a scenic stretch to discover by canoe or kayak. For one thing actually distinctive, go to the Girl Immaculate statue for a scenic lookout level.
The Canadian Canoe Museum can be right here, and it’s far more attention-grabbing than it sounds. Belief us, we didn’t suppose we’d be that into canoe historical past both, however the tales and Indigenous craftsmanship behind all of it are fairly shifting.
Peterborough additionally has a rising meals and humanities scene. One in all our favourite stops is the Whetung Ojibwa Centre, which helps native artists and has a beautiful assortment of work, carvings, beadwork, and handmade items. Finish the day at Publican Home Brewery with a chilly beer and pub meal. You’ve earned it.
20. Prince Edward County
Prince Edward County is what occurs when wine nation meets wild seashores and sunflowers. And it’s solely about two hours from Toronto. We normally make it a full-day loop, hitting the vineyards, sandy shores, and small cities alongside the way in which.
Begin with a morning drive via the backroads to catch the lavender and sunflower fields in bloom. They’re wildly photogenic, however be respectful, take your images from the sting and don’t trample the crops. That good Instagram shot isn’t price ruining somebody’s harvest.
Presqu’ile and Sandbanks Provincial Parks are the large attracts for seaside lovers. We’ve spent afternoons floating on the dunes at Sandbanks and nonetheless can’t imagine we’re not someplace tropical.
And naturally, the wine. Prince Edward County is full of boutique wineries, and most provide tastings. We have a tendency to go away with a couple of new bottles for the rack and quite a lot of new favorites. Should you’re a cider fan, there are alternatives for that too. Whether or not you’re planning a romantic getaway or searching for journey ideas for visiting Toronto’s finest wine area, PEC checks each field.
21. Algonquin Provincial Park
Okay, we’ll admit it, Algonquin is a little bit of a stretch for a day journey. It’s about three hours from Toronto, however we’ve achieved it greater than as soon as, particularly after we’re craving nature with a capital N.
Should you go away early, you possibly can nonetheless squeeze in a full day of mountain climbing, paddling, or moose recognizing earlier than heading again. Oxtongue Lake is a superb start line for rookies, and if you wish to dip your toes into backcountry life with out committing to a full tenting journey, Algonquin Outfitters presents wonderful one-day guided excursions .
This park is very large, over 7,600 sq. kilometers of wilderness, and it’s among the best locations on the earth to see moose within the wild. We’ve noticed them together with the highway greater than as soon as, simply hanging out prefer it’s no large deal.
You gained’t see the whole lot in a day, however one style of Algonquin and also you’ll be planning your subsequent in a single day earlier than you’ve even left the car parking zone. No automobile? Ebook this Toronto to Algonquin Provincial Park personal Tour.
22. Bruce Peninsula Nationwide Park
We’re pushing the bounds of a day journey right here, however in the event you’re up for a protracted drive and a full day outdoor, the Bruce Peninsula delivers.
This rugged stretch of land between Georgian Bay and Lake Huron is about three and a half hours from Toronto. It’s dwelling to a number of the clearest water in Ontario and a number of the finest mountain climbing within the province. The Grotto in Tobermory is the star of the present, a cave stuffed with turquoise water that appears prefer it belongs in Greece.
We’ve spent days right here mountaineering at Lion’s Head, mountain climbing alongside the Bruce Path, and snorkeling shipwrecks in Fathom 5 Nationwide Marine Park. Should you’re a scuba diver, Tobermory is a bucket listing spot with chilly, clear water and sunken schooners ready to be explored. We normally advocate this one as an in a single day, however in the event you go away earlier than dawn and don’t thoughts getting dwelling late, it’s doable, and unforgettable.
23. The Toronto Islands
You don’t even want to go away town for a day journey. Hop on a ferry to the Toronto Islands and discover Ward’s Island, picnic close to the Gibraltar Level Lighthouse, or simply get pleasure from skyline views of downtown Toronto. It’s open year-round, and in the course of the summer season months, it turns into a high vacation spot for each locals and vacationers alike. The Toronto Islands are the most effective place to soak up views of the Toronto Skyline. That traditional metropolis skyline of Toronto is taken from right here.
24. Bonus: The Toronto Zoo
Positioned within the japanese finish of town, the Toronto Zoo is a high attraction for animal lovers. We don’t usually advocate zoos, however the Toronto Zoo is among the finest on the earth. Dwelling to over 5,000 unique animals and a terrific possibility for households visiting Toronto, you possibly can simply spend a full day exploring the varied areas. It’s additionally close to Rouge Park in the event you’re trying so as to add a hike to your outing.
Last Suggestions
Whether or not you’re planning your first go to or simply seeking to discover extra of your individual yard, these day journeys from Toronto provide one thing for everybody. From scenic hikes to artwork galleries, and from petting zoos to wine tastings, there’s a world ready simply exterior town.
Earlier than heading out, take a look at St. Lawrence Marketplace for snacks and picnic gear. And don’t overlook to test ferry and park schedules, many locations are open year-round, however some sights are seasonal.
Able to go? Pack the automobile, seize your digicam, and let Ontario shock you.
FAQ – Day Journeys from Toronto
A number of the high day journeys from Toronto below 2 hours embody Niagara Falls, Elora, Stratford, Paris, Wasaga Seashore, Caledon, Hamilton, and St. Jacobs. These locations provide a mixture of nature, meals, tradition, and enjoyable.
Sure, completely. Niagara Falls is simply 90 minutes from Toronto by automobile and may also be reached by bus or practice. You possibly can simply go to high sights just like the Hornblower boat cruise, Journey Behind the Falls, and Clifton Hill in a single day.
Milton, Elora Gorge, and the Hamilton waterfalls are all wonderful selections for nature escapes below 90 minutes from Toronto. For a much bigger journey, head to Algonquin Park or the Bruce Peninsula.
Sure, you possibly can attain locations like Niagara Falls, Hamilton, and St. Jacobs by GO Transit, VIA Rail, or coach excursions. Nevertheless, many of the scenic parks and conservation areas are finest accessed by automobile.
The Bruce Peninsula is the farthest really helpful day journey, about 3.5 to 4 hours away. It’s a protracted drive however doable in the event you begin early and plan to remain out late.
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