In search of the finest day journeys from Toronto? Whether or not you’re craving waterfalls, wineries, seashores, or small cities, Ontario is filled with unbelievable locations to discover only a quick drive from the 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 the town.
We’ve lived in Toronto and traveled throughout the province—and belief us, you don’t have to go far to search out journey. From mountaineering 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 dwelling in meal time. For those who’re quick on time however large 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 certainly one 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 site 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 mountaineering and mountain biking. There’s a incredible scenic lookout level on the prime with sweeping views of the encircling rolling hills.
Milton sits proper on the Bruce Path, so the mountaineering is incredible. 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 bought 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 will not be the primary place that involves thoughts whenever 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. For those who’ve bought 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. For those who’re attempting to find the picturesque Bridal Veil Falls, it’s price a slight detour.
Spencer Gorge Conservation Space gives unbelievable views, particularly throughout the fall. We at all times suggest 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 finished it as a day journey extra instances than we are able to depend. In winter, we’re often snowboarding down the slopes, and in the summertime, it’s all about mountaineering, 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 certainly one of our first Toronto day journeys. There’s a suspension bridge, ziplining, and caves to discover. Close by scenic hikes supply guests a few of the finest views within the space.
For those who’re in want of a recharge, Scandinave Spa is a incredible 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 excellent 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 as well hire canoes close by and luxuriate in quiet stretches of water.
For those who’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 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 dwelling 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 unquestionably price 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.
For those who’re an animal lover, don’t miss the petting zoo in KidZville. From thrill rides to stress-free by the water, you possibly can simply spend a whole day right here.
7. Stratford
Stratford is certainly one of Ontario’s most charming cities, and we’ve been making journeys right here for years. Recognized 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 motels, and native meals markets, Stratford is a day journey that blends tradition and appeal with out making an attempt too arduous. And if you happen to’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 form of day journey that also wows us, irrespective of what number of instances we go.
E book a small group tour or hire a automobile and hit all of the highlights like Journey Behind the Falls, White Water Stroll, and the Niagara SkyWheel. Once you’re finished, stroll Clifton Hill or hop aboard the Hornblower cruise for up-close spray and selfies.
It’s solely 90 minutes away, and if you happen to 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. Verify 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 Competition. Primary 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 form 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 guide 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 outside exercise vacation spot. Hire 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 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 one million miles away. Assume winding roads, crystal-clear lakes, and that unmistakable odor of pine timber and campfires. We’ve spent entire days paddling on Lake Muskoka, mountaineering via 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 outlets price trying out 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 positively gaining in reputation—and for good motive. 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 sophisticated 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 true showstopper. The cliffs tower above the Grand River and the mountaineering trails offer you postcard-worthy views at each flip. For those who’re into tubing or kayaking, carry your gear or hire 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 couple of Hollywood films, nevertheless it’s even higher in individual.
12. Paris
We may be a bit of 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 often cease for lunch at Stillwaters or Camp 31, then stroll via the downtown strip to browse the outlets. It’s one road, nevertheless it packs a punch.
For those who’re a bicycle owner, carry your bike. You possibly can trip 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 all the pieces. 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’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 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 if you happen to’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 youngsters once more—flying via the forest on mountain bikes, getting lined in dust, and laughing the entire means. 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 all the pieces from mellow inexperienced trails to tight, rooty singletrack. For those who’re new to mountain biking, don’t fear. They hire gear and supply 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 stable cafeteria too, so no have to pack lunch. Simply carry 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 excellent 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 if you happen to’re touring with youngsters or animal lovers.
Kitchener-Waterloo has at all times flown a bit of underneath the radar, nevertheless it’s quietly grow to be certainly 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 bought Google and Blackberry places of work 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—if you happen to’re feeling formidable, it’s a good looking trip.
17. Wasaga Seaside
Want a seashore break? Wasaga Seaside gives an extended sandy shoreline and nice summer season power. Wasaga Seaside is a summer season traditional. It’s about an hour and 40 minutes from Toronto and residential to the longest freshwater seashore on the earth. 14 kilometers of sentimental sand and shallow, heat water. After 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, carry a cooler, and settle in for the afternoon.
18. Port Dover
Port Dover is a kind 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 truthfully, we’d nonetheless do it. In Port Dover, we love strolling the pier and visiting the Gibraltar Level Lighthouse reproduction. It’s bought that traditional Ontario seashore city vibe.
The city has a chill vibe with a sandy seashore, a pier that’s excellent for sundown walks, and sufficient little outlets and cafés to maintain you busy. For those who’re into quirky finds, spend a while searching 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 top off 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 a listing of winery and breweries in Norfolk County.
19. Peterborough and the Kawarthas
Peterborough sits proper within the coronary heart of the Kawarthas, and if you happen to’ve ever puzzled what traditional 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, nevertheless it’s truly actually cool to observe boats rise and fall like they’re on a theme park trip. For those who’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 attention-grabbing than it sounds. Belief us, we didn’t assume 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. One in all 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 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 via 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 massive attracts for seashore 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 filled with boutique wineries, and most supply tastings. We have a tendency to depart with a couple of new bottles for the rack and various new favorites. For those who’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 finished it greater than as soon as, particularly once we’re craving nature with a capital N.
For those who depart early, you possibly can nonetheless squeeze in a full day of mountaineering, paddling, or moose recognizing earlier than heading again. Oxtongue Lake is a good start line 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 very large, over 7,600 sq. kilometers of wilderness, and it’s the most effective locations on the earth 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 large deal.
You gained’t see all the pieces 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 automobile? E book this Toronto to Algonquin Provincial Park non-public Tour.
22. Bruce Peninsula Nationwide Park
We’re pushing the bounds of a day journey right here, however if you happen to’re up for an extended 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 few of the clearest water in Ontario and a few of the finest mountaineering 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 mountaineering at Lion’s Head, mountaineering alongside the Bruce Path, and snorkeling shipwrecks in Fathom 5 Nationwide Marine Park. For those who’re a scuba diver, Tobermory is a bucket record spot with chilly, clear water and sunken schooners ready to be explored. We often suggest this one as an in a single day, however if you happen to 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 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 throughout the summer season months, it turns into a prime vacation spot for each locals and vacationers alike. The Toronto Islands are the perfect 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
Situated within the jap finish of the town, the Toronto Zoo is a prime attraction for animal lovers. We don’t usually suggest zoos, however the Toronto Zoo is among the finest on the earth. Residence to over 5,000 unique animals and an excellent choice for households visiting Toronto, you possibly can simply spend a full day exploring the assorted areas. It’s additionally close to Rouge Park if you happen to’re trying so as to add a hike to your outing.
Ultimate 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 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 the town.
Earlier than heading out, take a look at St. Lawrence Marketplace for snacks and picnic gear. And don’t neglect 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
Among the prime day journeys from Toronto underneath 2 hours embody Niagara Falls, Elora, Stratford, Paris, Wasaga Seaside, 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 automobile and may 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 selections 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, many of the scenic parks and conservation areas are finest accessed by automobile.
The Bruce Peninsula is the farthest beneficial day journey, about 3.5 to 4 hours away. It’s an extended drive however doable if you happen to begin early and plan to remain out late.
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