On the lookout for 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 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 have to 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 may head out within the morning and be again house in meal time. In the event 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 – 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 may 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 climbing and mountain biking. There’s a incredible scenic lookout level on the prime with sweeping views of the encompassing rolling hills.
Milton sits proper on the Bruce Path, so the climbing is incredible. 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 bought Rattlesnake Level and Mount Nemo. These spots are a dream for rock climbers and hikers. If you’d like a difficult hike, you may sort out the Satan’s Punchbowl.
2. Hamilton Waterfalls
Hamilton isn’t the primary place that involves thoughts while 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 number of the best-known falls are Webster’s Falls, Albion Falls, and Tews Falls. In the event you’ve bought a full day, you may 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 value a slight detour.
Spencer Gorge Conservation Space gives unimaginable views, particularly through 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 achieved it as a day journey extra occasions 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 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 number of the finest views within the space.
In the event you’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 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 may as well hire canoes close by and revel in quiet stretches of water.
In the event you’re craving a little bit of journey, Ganaraska Forest is a wild solution to spend the day. Situated simply over an hour from Toronto, it’s the place we went to get our first style of filth 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 below the radar however is unquestionably value 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
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 the event you’re an animal lover, don’t miss the petting zoo in KidZville. From thrill rides to enjoyable by the water, you may 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. 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 resorts, and native meals markets, Stratford is a day journey that blends tradition and allure with out attempting too exhausting. And for those who’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 gives guests a more in-depth 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 occasions 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. 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 for those who time it proper, you may 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 allure, boutique wineries, and the enduring Shaw Competition. Major Road 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 just a little longer.
You may simply mix a Niagara Falls journey with Niagara-on-the-Lake. They’re solely 20 minutes aside. You may 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 outside 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 purple and gold. In summer time, 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. 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 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 allure, with native cafés, breweries, and retailers value 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 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 severely stunning pedestrian sq. referred to as the Elora Mews. You’ll need 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 provide you with postcard-worthy views at each flip. In the event you’re into tubing or kayaking, deliver your gear or hire some on the town—it’s probably the greatest spots for river adventures in southern Ontario.
And sure, the Elora Quarry has been in a number of Hollywood films, however it’s even higher in individual.
12. Paris
We could be just a little 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 by city, and we’re typically out on it with our paddleboards or kayaks. After a number of hours on the water, we’ll often cease for lunch at Stillwaters or Camp 31, then stroll by the downtown strip to browse the retailers. It’s one avenue, however it packs a punch.
In the event you’re a bicycle owner, deliver your bike. You may experience all the best way to Brantford and even Ancaster alongside related 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 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 superbly 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 for those who’re feeling fortunate, however truthfully, the true 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 by the forest on mountain bikes, getting lined in filth, 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 all the pieces from mellow inexperienced trails to tight, rooty singletrack. In the event you’re new to mountain biking, don’t fear. They hire gear and supply classes, so you may 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 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 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 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 for those who’re touring with children or animal lovers.
Kitchener-Waterloo has at all times flown just a little below the radar, however 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 allure with cutting-edge innovation. You’ve bought Google and Blackberry workplaces on one facet 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 by the historic city of Galt. We’ve even cycled all the best way right here from Paris alongside the Grand River trails—for those who’re feeling bold, it’s a wonderful experience.
17. Wasaga Seaside
Want a seaside break? Wasaga Seaside gives an extended sandy shoreline and nice summer time vitality. Wasaga Seaside is a summer time traditional. It’s about an hour and 40 minutes from Toronto and residential to the longest freshwater seaside on the planet. 14 kilometers of soppy sand and shallow, heat water. Once we’re within the temper for a correct seaside day with out driving all the best way 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 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 scorching 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 duplicate. It’s bought 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. 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 refill your bar at house. It’s a laid-back day that at all times ends with full stomachs and clinking bottles within the trunk. Try 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 for those who’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 some extent of stopping by Lock 21, the world’s highest hydraulic raise lock. It sounds technical, however it’s truly actually cool to look at boats rise and fall like they’re on a theme park experience. 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 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 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 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 best way.
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 pictures 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 massive 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 supply tastings. We have a tendency to depart 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 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.
In the event you go away early, you may nonetheless squeeze in a full day of climbing, paddling, or moose recognizing earlier than heading again. Oxtongue Lake is a good place to begin for freshmen, and if you wish to dip your toes into backcountry life with out committing to a full tenting journey, Algonquin Outfitters gives wonderful one-day guided excursions .
This park is very large, over 7,600 sq. kilometers of wilderness, and it’s probably the greatest locations on the planet to see moose within the wild. We’ve noticed them along with the highway greater than as soon as, simply hanging out prefer it’s no massive 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 for those who’re up for an extended 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 house to a number of the clearest water in Ontario and a number of the finest 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, 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 listing spot with chilly, clear water and sunken schooners ready to be explored. We often advocate this one as an in a single day, however for those who 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 depart 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 very best 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 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 planet. Dwelling to over 5,000 unique animals and a terrific choice for households visiting Toronto, you may simply spend a full day exploring the varied areas. It’s additionally close to Rouge Park for those who’re trying so as to add a hike to your outing.
Ultimate Ideas
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 town.
Earlier than heading out, take a look at St. Lawrence Marketplace for snacks and picnic gear. And don’t overlook to examine ferry and park schedules, many locations are open year-round, however some sights are seasonal.
Able to go? Pack the automobile, seize your digital camera, and let Ontario shock you.
FAQ – Day Journeys from Toronto
A number of the prime day journeys from Toronto below 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 will also be reached by bus or practice. You may 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 a much bigger journey, head to Algonquin Park or the Bruce Peninsula.
Sure, you may 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 for those who begin early and plan to remain out late.
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