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 quick drive from 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 town.
We’ve lived in Toronto and traveled throughout the province—and belief us, you don’t must go far to search out journey. From 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’ll be able to head out within the morning and be again house in dinner time. In case you’re quick on time however huge on wanderlust, these are the highest 25 Toronto day journeys so as to add to your weekend plans.
1. Milton – Good Day Journey for Nature Lovers
Milton is one among our favourite simple day journeys from Toronto, and it’s solely about 40 minutes away. It’s the sort of place the place you’ll be able to go from metropolis visitors to forest trails in beneath 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 out of doors enjoyable. Within the winter, we’ve snowboarded and snowshoed right here, and in the summertime, it’s all about climbing and mountain biking. There’s a improbable scenic lookout level on the prime with sweeping views of the encircling rolling hills.
Milton sits proper on the Bruce Path, so the climbing is improbable. 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 received Rattlesnake Level and Mount Nemo. These spots are a dream for rock climbers and hikers. If you’d like a difficult hike, you’ll be able to deal with the Satan’s Punchbowl.
2. Hamilton Waterfalls
Hamilton just isn’t the primary place that involves thoughts if 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.
Among the best-known falls are Webster’s Falls, Albion Falls, and Tews Falls. In case you’ve received a full day, you’ll be able to simply slot in a couple of of them and nonetheless have time for a brewery cease or two on the town. In case you’re trying to find the picturesque Bridal Veil Falls, it’s price a slight detour.
Spencer Gorge Conservation Space gives unimaginable views, particularly in the course of the fall. We at all times advocate reserving your time slot forward. Through 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 carried out it as a day journey extra instances than we are able to rely. In winter, we’re often snowboarding down the slopes, and in the summertime, it’s all about climbing, biking, or simply wandering by way of Blue Mountain Village with an ice cream in hand.
Different points of interest round Blue Mountain embody the Scenic Caves in Collingwood, which was one among our first Toronto day journeys. There’s a suspension bridge, ziplining, and caves to discover. Close by scenic hikes supply guests a number of the greatest 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 right 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 excellent for out of doors journey. We took a dust biking course with Path Excursions and have been shocked at how enjoyable and accessible it was. You can even lease canoes close by and revel in quiet stretches of water.
In case you’re craving a little bit of journey, Ganaraska Forest is a wild option to spend the day. Positioned simply over an hour from Toronto, it’s the place we went to get our first style of dust 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 house 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 beneath 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 definitely 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 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 stress-free by the water, you’ll be able to simply spend a whole day right here.
7. Stratford
Stratford is one among 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 robust 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 appeal with out attempting too exhausting. And in case 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 aspect of Horseshoe Falls gives 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.
E-book 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. If you’re carried out, stroll Clifton Hill or hop aboard the Hornblower cruise for up-close spray and selfies.
It’s solely 90 minutes away, and in case you time it proper, you’ll be able to 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. Test Niagara Day Excursions Right here.
9. Niagara-on-the-Lake
This historic city on Lake Ontario gives small-town appeal, 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 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 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 best out of doors exercise vacation spot. Lease canoes, pack a picnic, or simply benefit from the views. Through the fall, it turns into a painter’s palette of pink and gold. In summer time, Friday Harbour can also 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. Assume winding roads, crystal-clear lakes, and that unmistakable scent of pine bushes and campfires. We’ve spent complete days paddling on Lake Muskoka, climbing by way 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 appeal, with native cafés, breweries, and outlets 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 recognition—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 excellent for a day journey.
Again in highschool, this was the place everybody went to flee for the afternoon. Now, it’s a elegant little city with boutiques, bakeries, and one significantly stunning pedestrian sq. known as the Elora Mews. You’ll wish to seize a espresso and simply wander.
The Elora Gorge is the true showstopper. The cliffs tower above the Grand River and the climbing trails offer you postcard-worthy views at each flip. In case 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, however it’s even higher in particular person.
12. Paris
We may be somewhat biased, however Paris is without doubt 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 way of city, and we’re typically out on it with our paddleboards or kayaks. After a couple of hours on the water, we’ll often cease for lunch at Stillwaters or Camp 31, then stroll by way of the downtown strip to browse the outlets. It’s one road, however it packs a punch.
In case you’re a bicycle owner, convey your bike. You possibly can experience all the way in which to Brantford and even Ancaster alongside related trails that weave by way 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 fantastically preserved and surprisingly enjoyable to tour.
The Grand River flows by way 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 case you’re feeling fortunate, however truthfully, the true 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 way of the forest on mountain bikes, getting lined in dust, and laughing the entire method. 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 lease gear and supply classes, so you’ll be able to ease into it. There’s even a warm-up loop to get your confidence up earlier than you hit the longer routes.
They’ve received a stable 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 filled with scenic hikes, strolling trails, and an awesome 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 case you’re touring with children or animal lovers.
Kitchener-Waterloo has at all times flown somewhat beneath the radar, however it’s quietly turn out to be one among 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 received Google and Blackberry places of work on one aspect of city and Mennonite markets and horse-drawn buggies on the opposite.
Whilst you’re on the market, try the Cambridge Butterfly Conservatory or take a stroll by way 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 case you’re feeling bold, it’s a lovely experience.
17. Wasaga Seashore
Want a seaside break? Wasaga Seashore gives 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 seaside on this planet. 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 chew 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 truthfully, we’d nonetheless do it. In Port Dover, we love strolling the pier and visiting the Gibraltar Level Lighthouse reproduction. It’s received that basic Ontario seaside city vibe.
The city has a chill vibe with a sandy seaside, a pier that’s excellent for sundown walks, and sufficient little outlets and cafés to maintain you busy. In case you’re into quirky finds, spend a while looking the native antiques and classic outlets.
We like to make use of Port Dover as a place to begin for a mini street journey alongside Lake Erie. Drive to Turkey Level or Port Burwell, hit a couple of wineries or brewpubs, and fill up your bar at house. 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 case you’ve ever puzzled what basic Canadian cottage nation appears like, that is it. It’s about 90 minutes from Toronto, and there’s extra to do right here than you may count on.
We at all times make some extent of stopping by Lock 21, the world’s highest hydraulic elevate lock. It sounds technical, however it’s really actually cool to observe boats rise and fall like they’re on a theme park experience. 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 Girl Immaculate statue for a scenic lookout level.
The Canadian Canoe Museum can also 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 transferring.
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 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 often 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 way 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 excellent 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 consider we’re not someplace tropical.
And naturally, the wine. Prince Edward County is filled with boutique wineries, and most supply tastings. We have a tendency to go away with a couple of new bottles for the rack and various 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 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 carried out it greater than as soon as, particularly once we’re craving nature with a capital N.
In case you go away early, you’ll be able to nonetheless squeeze in a full day of climbing, paddling, or moose recognizing earlier than heading again. Oxtongue Lake is a superb place to begin for learners, and if you wish to dip your toes into backcountry life with out committing to a full tenting journey, Algonquin Outfitters gives glorious one-day guided excursions .
This park is huge, over 7,600 sq. kilometers of wilderness, and it’s among the best locations on this planet to see moose within the wild. We’ve noticed them in conjunction with the street greater than as soon as, simply hanging out prefer it’s no huge 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 car parking zone. No automotive? E-book 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 case 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 house to a number of the clearest water in Ontario and a number of the greatest climbing within the province. The Grotto in Tobermory is the star of the present, a cave full of turquoise water that appears prefer it belongs in Greece.
We’ve spent days right here mountain climbing at Lion’s Head, 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 record spot with chilly, clear water and sunken schooners ready to be explored. We often advocate this one as an in a single day, however in case you go away earlier than dawn and don’t thoughts getting house 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 take pleasure in skyline views of downtown Toronto. It’s open year-round, and in the course of the summer time months, it turns into a prime vacation spot for each locals and vacationers alike. The Toronto Islands are the very best place to absorb views of the Toronto Skyline. That basic metropolis skyline of Toronto is taken from right here.
24. Bonus: The Toronto Zoo
Positioned within the jap finish of town, the Toronto Zoo is a prime attraction for animal lovers. We don’t usually advocate zoos, however the Toronto Zoo is without doubt one of the greatest on this planet. House to over 5,000 unique animals and an awesome choice for households visiting Toronto, you’ll be able to simply spend a full day exploring the assorted areas. It’s additionally close to Rouge Park in case you’re trying so as to add a hike to your outing.
Remaining Suggestions
Whether or not you’re planning your first go to or simply seeking to discover extra of your personal yard, these day journeys from Toronto supply 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, try St. Lawrence Marketplace for snacks and picnic gear. And don’t overlook to verify ferry and park schedules, many locations are open year-round, however some points of interest 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 beneath 2 hours embody Niagara Falls, Elora, Stratford, Paris, Wasaga Seashore, Caledon, Hamilton, and St. Jacobs. These locations supply 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 points of interest 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 beneath 90 minutes from Toronto. For an even bigger journey, head to Algonquin Park or the Bruce Peninsula.
Sure, you’ll be able to 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 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 case you begin early and plan to remain out late.
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