On the lookout for the greatest day journeys from Toronto? Whether or not you’re craving waterfalls, wineries, seashores, or small cities, Ontario is filled with unimaginable locations to discover only a brief drive from town. One of the best 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 have to 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 dinner time. In the event 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 one in every of our favourite simple day journeys from Toronto, and it’s solely about 40 minutes away. It’s the form of place the place you possibly can go from metropolis 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 unbelievable scenic lookout level on the prime with sweeping views of the encompassing rolling hills.
Milton sits proper on the Bruce Path, so the mountain climbing is unbelievable. Considered one of 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 bought Rattlesnake Level and Mount Nemo. These spots are a dream for rock climbers and hikers. If you would like a difficult hike, you possibly can sort out the Satan’s Punchbowl.
2. Hamilton Waterfalls
Hamilton shouldn’t be the primary place that involves thoughts if you consider waterfalls, however as soon as we found it, we had 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 few of the best-known falls are Webster’s Falls, Albion Falls, and Tews Falls. In the event you’ve bought a full day, you possibly can simply slot in a number of of them and nonetheless have time for a brewery cease or two on the town. In the event you’re looking for the picturesque Bridal Veil Falls, it’s price a slight detour.
Spencer Gorge Conservation Space presents unimaginable views, particularly through the fall. We at all times suggest reserving your time slot forward. Throughout the summer time 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 accomplished it as a day journey extra instances than we will depend. In winter, we’re normally snowboarding down the slopes, and in the summertime, it’s all about mountain climbing, biking, or simply wandering by Blue Mountain Village with an ice cream in hand.
Different sights round Blue Mountain embody the Scenic Caves in Collingwood, which was one in every of our first Toronto day journeys. There’s a suspension bridge, ziplining, and caves to discover. Close by scenic hikes provide guests a few of the greatest views within the space.
In the event you’re in want of a recharge, Scandinave Spa is a unbelievable 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
Situated 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 had been shocked at how enjoyable and accessible it was. You may also lease canoes close by and luxuriate in quiet stretches of water.
In the event you’re craving a little bit of journey, Ganaraska Forest is a wild technique to spend the day. Situated 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 unquestionably 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 definitely worth the drive.
6. Canada’s Wonderland
Situated 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 prime choose for households visiting Toronto.
In the event 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 whole day right here.
7. Stratford
Stratford is one in every 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 beautiful artwork galleries.
There’s a robust arts and culinary scene right here, too. Between the historic structure, boutique inns, 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 prime.
8. Niagara Falls
Niagara Falls is a world-class vacation spot that’s surprisingly doable in a day. The Canadian facet of Horseshoe Falls presents guests a better and extra highly effective view than the American Falls. From the CN Tower to the falls, that is the form of day journey that also wows us, irrespective of what number of instances we go.
Ebook a small group tour or lease a automotive and hit all of the highlights like Journey Behind the Falls, White Water Stroll, and the Niagara SkyWheel. Once you’re accomplished, 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 with no need 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 long-lasting Shaw Pageant. Major 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 form of place you’ll need to linger a little bit longer.
You’ll be able to simply mix a Niagara Falls journey with Niagara-on-the-Lake. They’re solely 20 minutes aside. You’ll be able to e book day excursions to Niagara on the Lake and see its prime 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 crimson and gold. In summer time, 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 one million miles away. Assume winding roads, crystal-clear lakes, and that unmistakable scent of pine bushes and campfires. We’ve spent complete days paddling on Lake Muskoka, mountain climbing by the woods, and looking 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 trying out 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 sophisticated little city with boutiques, bakeries, and one significantly 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. In the event you’re into tubing or kayaking, convey your gear or lease some on the town—it’s the most effective spots for river adventures in southern Ontario.
And sure, the Elora Quarry has been in a number of Hollywood films, nevertheless it’s even higher in particular person.
12. Paris
We could be a little bit biased, however Paris is likely one of the prettiest small cities in Ontario, and now that we reside 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 by city, and we’re usually out on it with our paddleboards or kayaks. After a number of hours on the water, we’ll normally cease for lunch at Stillwaters or Camp 31, then stroll by the downtown strip to browse the retailers. It’s one avenue, nevertheless it packs a punch.
In the event you’re a bike owner, convey your bike. You’ll be able to journey all the way in which to Brantford and even Ancaster alongside linked trails that weave by the countryside. And earlier than you permit, 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’ll 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 by 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 once we need to really feel like children once more—flying by the forest on mountain bikes, getting coated in grime, and laughing the entire manner. It’s about 90 minutes from Toronto and it’s one of many prime 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. In the event 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 bought a strong cafeteria too, so no have to 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 filled with 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 trendy 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 a little bit below the radar, nevertheless it’s quietly turn out to be one in every 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 bought Google and Blackberry places of work on one facet of city and Mennonite markets and horse-drawn buggies on the opposite.
Whilst you’re on the market, take a look at the Cambridge Butterfly Conservatory or take a stroll by 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 good looking journey.
17. Wasaga Seashore
Want a seashore break? Wasaga Seashore presents a protracted sandy shoreline and nice summer time power. Wasaga Seashore is a summer time basic. It’s about an hour and 40 minutes from Toronto and residential to the longest freshwater seashore on the planet. 14 kilometers of sentimental sand and shallow, heat water. Once we’re within the temper for a correct seashore 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 seashore 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 reproduction. It’s bought that basic Ontario seashore city vibe.
The city has a chill vibe with a sandy seashore, a pier that’s good for sundown walks, and sufficient little retailers and cafés to maintain you busy. In the event you’re into quirky finds, spend a while searching 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 number of wineries or brewpubs, and replenish your bar at dwelling. It’s a laid-back day that at all times ends with full stomachs and clinking bottles within the trunk. Take a look at 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 basic 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 would possibly anticipate.
We at all times make a degree of stopping by Lock 21, the world’s highest hydraulic elevate lock. It sounds technical, nevertheless it’s truly actually cool to observe boats rise and fall like they’re on a theme park journey. In the event you’re into paddling, the Trent-Severn Waterway is a scenic stretch to discover by canoe or kayak. For one thing really distinctive, go to the Woman Immaculate statue for a scenic lookout level.
The Canadian Canoe Museum can be right here, and it’s far more fascinating 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. Considered one of our favourite stops is the Whetung Ojibwa Centre, which helps native artists and has a stunning 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 by the backroads to catch the lavender and sunflower fields in bloom. They’re wildly photogenic, however be respectful, take your photographs 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 seashore lovers. We’ve spent afternoons floating on the dunes at Sandbanks and nonetheless can’t consider we’re not someplace tropical.
And naturally, the wine. Prince Edward County is filled with boutique wineries, and most provide tastings. We have a tendency to go away with a number of new bottles for the rack and quite a lot of new favorites. In the event you’re a cider fan, there are alternatives for that too. Whether or not you’re planning a romantic getaway or in search of journey ideas for visiting Toronto’s greatest 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 accomplished it greater than as soon as, particularly once we’re craving nature with a capital N.
In the event you depart 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 good start line for novices, 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 huge, over 7,600 sq. kilometers of wilderness, and it’s the most effective locations on the planet to see moose within the wild. We’ve noticed them along side 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 automotive? Ebook this Toronto to Algonquin Provincial Park personal Tour.
22. Bruce Peninsula Nationwide Park
We’re pushing the boundaries of a day journey right here, however in the event you’re up for a protracted drive and a full day outside, 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 few of the clearest water in Ontario and a few of the greatest 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. In the event you’re a scuba diver, Tobermory is a bucket record spot with chilly, clear water and sunken schooners ready to be explored. We normally suggest this one as an in a single day, however in the event you depart 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 through the summer time months, it turns into a prime vacation spot for each locals and vacationers alike. The Toronto Islands are the most effective place to absorb views of the Toronto Skyline. That basic metropolis skyline of Toronto is taken from right here.
24. Bonus: The Toronto Zoo
Situated within the japanese finish of town, the Toronto Zoo is a prime attraction for animal lovers. We don’t usually suggest zoos, however the Toronto Zoo is likely one of the greatest on the planet. Residence 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 wanting so as to add a hike to your outing.
Closing Ideas
Whether or not you’re planning your first go to or simply trying to discover extra of your personal 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 outdoors 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 automotive, seize your digicam, and let Ontario shock you.
FAQ – Day Journeys from Toronto
A few of the prime 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 automotive and can be reached by bus or prepare. You’ll be able to simply go to prime 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 decisions for nature escapes below 90 minutes from Toronto. For an even 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, a lot of the scenic parks and conservation areas are greatest accessed by automotive.
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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