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 unimaginable locations to discover only a quick drive from the town. The very best day journeys from Toronto embody Niagara Falls, Elora, Blue Mountain, and Prince Edward County, all inside 2 to three hours from the 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.
Greatest 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 residence in supper time. In case you’re quick on time however massive 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 sort of place the place you possibly can go from metropolis visitors to forest trails in underneath an hour. After 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 prime with sweeping views of the encompassing rolling hills.
Milton sits proper on the Bruce Path, so the mountain climbing is improbable. Certainly 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 obtained Rattlesnake Level and Mount Nemo. These spots are a dream for rock climbers and hikers. If you need 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.
Among the best-known falls are Webster’s Falls, Albion Falls, and Tews Falls. In case you’ve obtained 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 case you’re attempting to find the picturesque Bridal Veil Falls, it’s value a slight detour.
Spencer Gorge Conservation Space presents unimaginable views, particularly in the course of the fall. We at all times advocate reserving your time slot forward. In the course of 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 completed 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 means of 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 among the finest views within the space.
In case 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
Situated simply over an hour from the town, Ganaraska Forest is an off-the-grid gem good for outside journey. We took a dust biking course with Path Excursions and had been shocked at how enjoyable and accessible it was. You can even hire canoes close by and luxuriate in quiet stretches of water.
In case you’re craving a little bit of journey, Ganaraska Forest is a wild strategy 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 residence to the Ranney Gorge Suspension Bridge and a community of strolling trails that result in scenic picnic areas. It’s a kind of locations that flies underneath the radar however is certainly value visiting.
This hidden gem is a quiet spot to flee the crowds, stretch your legs, and get some contemporary 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 decide for households visiting Toronto.
In case 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 outlets, 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 resorts, and native meals markets, Stratford is a day journey that blends tradition and allure with out making an attempt too exhausting. 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 sort of day journey that also wows us, irrespective of what number of instances we go.
Ebook a small group tour or hire a automotive and hit all of the highlights like Journey Behind the Falls, White Water Stroll, and the Niagara SkyWheel. Once you’re completed, 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 while not having to remain in a single day.
Begin early. Dawn over the falls is underrated, and also you’ll beat the crowds. Test Niagara Day Excursions Right here.
9. Niagara-on-the-Lake
This historic city on Lake Ontario presents small-town allure, boutique wineries, and the long-lasting Shaw Pageant. Essential Road is lined with quaint outlets 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 wish to linger a bit of longer.
You possibly can simply mix a Niagara Falls journey with Niagara-on-the-Lake. They’re solely 20 minutes aside. You possibly can 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. Hire canoes, pack a picnic, or simply benefit from the views. In the course of the fall, it turns into a painter’s palette of crimson and gold. In summer season, Friday Harbour can be value 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. Suppose winding roads, crystal-clear lakes, and that unmistakable odor of pine timber and campfires. We’ve spent complete days paddling on Lake Muskoka, mountain climbing by means of 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 allure, with native cafés, breweries, and outlets value testing earlier than you head again to the 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 purpose. 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 refined little city with boutiques, bakeries, and one critically lovely pedestrian sq. referred to as the Elora Mews. You’ll wish 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 case you’re into tubing or kayaking, deliver your gear or hire some on the town—it’s top-of-the-line spots for river adventures in southern Ontario.
And sure, the Elora Quarry has been in a number of Hollywood films, but it surely’s even higher in individual.
12. Paris
We is perhaps a bit of biased, however Paris is among 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 means of 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 means of the downtown strip to browse the outlets. It’s one road, but it surely packs a punch.
In case you’re a bicycle owner, deliver your bike. You possibly can journey all the way in which to Brantford and even Ancaster alongside linked trails that weave by means of the countryside. And earlier than you allow, swing by the Wincey Mills Marketplace for native cheese, baked items, and small-batch every part. It’s our go-to Saturday morning spot.
13. Brantford
Only a quick drive from Paris, Brantford has its personal tales to inform. It’s the place Alexander Graham Bell made the first-ever long-distance telephone name—and you may go to the Bell Homestead to see the place all of it occurred. The home is superbly preserved and surprisingly enjoyable to tour.
The Grand River flows by means of 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 notice.
14. Hardwood Hills
Hardwood Hills is the place we go once we wish to really feel like children once more—flying by means of 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 every part from mellow inexperienced trails to tight, rooty singletrack. In case you’re new to mountain biking, don’t fear. They hire 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 obtained a stable cafeteria too, so no have to pack lunch. Simply deliver 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 fantastic 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 allure 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 bit of underneath the radar, but it surely’s quietly develop into one in every of our favourite day journeys from Toronto. Simply over an hour away, this twin-city hub blends old-world allure with cutting-edge innovation. You’ve obtained Google and Blackberry places of work on one facet of city and Mennonite markets and horse-drawn buggies on the opposite.
When you’re on the market, try the Cambridge Butterfly Conservatory or take a stroll by means of 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 bold, it’s an exquisite journey.
17. Wasaga Seashore
Want a seaside break? Wasaga Seashore presents an extended sandy shoreline and nice summer season power. Wasaga Seashore is a summer season basic. 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. After 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, deliver a cooler, and settle in for the afternoon.
18. Port Dover
Port Dover is a kind of locations that also looks like a correct old-school seaside city. We used to drive right here from Toronto simply to get a scorching 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 obtained that basic 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 outlets and cafés to maintain you busy. In case you’re into quirky finds, spend a while shopping the native antiques and classic outlets.
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 residence. 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 puzzled what basic Canadian cottage nation seems like, that is it. It’s about 90 minutes from Toronto, and there’s extra to do right here than you would possibly count on.
We at all times make a degree of stopping by Lock 21, the world’s highest hydraulic raise lock. It sounds technical, but it surely’s truly actually cool to look at boats rise and fall like they’re on a theme park journey. In case 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 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. Certainly one of 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 by means of 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 value 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 depart with a number of new bottles for the rack and quite a lot of new favorites. In case 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 suggestions 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 completed it greater than as soon as, particularly once we’re craving nature with a capital N.
In case 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 novices, and if you wish to dip your toes into backcountry life with out committing to a full tenting journey, Algonquin Outfitters presents glorious one-day guided excursions .
This park is huge, over 7,600 sq. kilometers of wilderness, and it’s top-of-the-line 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 massive deal.
You gained’t see every part 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 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 an extended drive and a full day open air, 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 residence to among the clearest water in Ontario and among the finest mountain climbing within the province. The Grotto in Tobermory is the star of the present, a cave crammed with turquoise water that appears prefer it belongs in Greece.
We’ve spent days right here mountain climbing at Lion’s Head, mountain climbing alongside the Bruce Path, and snorkeling shipwrecks in Fathom 5 Nationwide Marine Park. In case 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 residence late, it’s doable, and unforgettable.
23. The Toronto Islands
You don’t even want to depart the 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 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 the town, the Toronto Zoo is a prime 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 fantastic choice 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 Suggestions
Whether or not you’re planning your first go to or simply trying 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 outdoors the town.
Earlier than heading out, try St. Lawrence Marketplace for snacks and picnic gear. And don’t neglect to verify ferry and park schedules, many locations are open year-round, however some sights are seasonal.
Able to go? Pack the automotive, seize your digital camera, and let Ontario shock you.
FAQ – Day Journeys from Toronto
Among the prime day journeys from Toronto underneath 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 will also be reached by bus or prepare. You possibly can 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 glorious decisions for nature escapes underneath 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. Nonetheless, a lot of the scenic parks and conservation areas are finest accessed by automotive.
The Bruce Peninsula is the farthest beneficial day journey, about 3.5 to 4 hours away. It’s an extended drive however doable in the event you begin early and plan to remain out late.
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