Searching for the very best 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 the town. The perfect day journeys from Toronto embrace 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 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 house in supper time. If you happen to’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 – Excellent Day Journey for Nature Lovers
Milton is one in all our favourite straightforward 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 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 mountain climbing and mountain biking. There’s a implausible 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 implausible. 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 acquired Rattlesnake Level and Mount Nemo. These spots are a dream for rock climbers and hikers. If you need a difficult hike, you possibly can deal with 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 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.
A few of the best-known falls are Webster’s Falls, Albion Falls, and Tews Falls. If you happen to’ve acquired 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. If you happen to’re looking for the picturesque Bridal Veil Falls, it’s value a slight detour.
Spencer Gorge Conservation Space gives unimaginable views, particularly throughout 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 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 mountain climbing, biking, or simply wandering by Blue Mountain Village with an ice cream in hand.
Different points of interest round Blue Mountain embrace the Scenic Caves in Collingwood, which was one in all our first Toronto day journeys. There’s a suspension bridge, ziplining, and caves to discover. Close by scenic hikes supply guests among the greatest views within the space.
If you happen to’re in want of a recharge, Scandinave Spa is a implausible 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
Situated simply over an hour from the town, Ganaraska Forest is an off-the-grid gem good 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 may as well lease canoes close by and luxuriate in quiet stretches of water.
If you happen to’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 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 house 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 beneath 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 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.
If you happen to’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 complete day right here.
7. Stratford
Stratford is one in all 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 inns, and native meals markets, Stratford is a day journey that blends tradition and allure with out attempting 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 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, regardless of what number of occasions 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. Whenever 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 in the event you time it proper, you possibly can pack in a ton of experiences without 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 allure, boutique wineries, and the long-lasting Shaw Pageant. Principal 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 need to linger slightly longer.
You may simply mix a Niagara Falls journey with Niagara-on-the-Lake. They’re solely 20 minutes aside. You may ebook 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 out of doors 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 purple and gold. In summer time, Friday Harbour can also 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 1,000,000 miles away. Suppose winding roads, crystal-clear lakes, and that unmistakable odor 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 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 positively gaining in recognition—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 cultured little city with boutiques, bakeries, and one severely lovely pedestrian sq. known 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 provide you with postcard-worthy views at each flip. If you happen to’re into tubing or kayaking, carry your gear or lease 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 couple of Hollywood motion pictures, nevertheless it’s even higher in particular person.
12. Paris
We could be slightly biased, however Paris is without doubt one of 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 couple 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 outlets. It’s one avenue, nevertheless it packs a punch.
If you happen to’re a bicycle owner, carry 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 allow, swing by the Wincey Mills Marketplace for native cheese, baked items, and small-batch every little thing. 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 cellphone 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 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 after we need to really feel like children once more—flying by the forest on mountain bikes, getting lined in grime, and laughing the entire approach. 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 little thing from mellow inexperienced trails to tight, rooty singletrack. If you happen to’re new to mountain biking, don’t fear. They lease 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 acquired a strong 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 ideal 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 in the event you’re touring with children or animal lovers.
Kitchener-Waterloo has at all times flown slightly beneath the radar, nevertheless it’s quietly change into one in all 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 acquired 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—in the event you’re feeling formidable, it’s a ravishing experience.
17. Wasaga Seaside
Want a seashore 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 seashore on the earth. 14 kilometers of soppy sand and shallow, heat water. Once we’re within the temper for a correct seashore 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 chew 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 actually, we’d nonetheless do it. In Port Dover, we love strolling the pier and visiting the Gibraltar Level Lighthouse duplicate. It’s acquired that traditional 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 outlets and cafés to maintain you busy. If you happen to’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 highway journey alongside Lake Erie. Drive to Turkey Level or Port Burwell, hit a couple 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. 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 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 count on.
We at all times make a degree of stopping by Lock 21, the world’s highest hydraulic carry lock. It sounds technical, nevertheless it’s really actually cool to look at boats rise and fall like they’re on a theme park experience. If you happen to’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 also 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. One in all 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 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 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. If you happen to’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 achieved it greater than as soon as, particularly after we’re craving nature with a capital N.
If you happen to 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 newcomers, 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 probably the greatest 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 huge deal.
You received’t see every little thing 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 the event you’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 among the clearest water in Ontario and among 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. If you happen to’re a scuba diver, Tobermory is a bucket checklist spot with chilly, clear water and sunken schooners ready to be explored. We often suggest this one as an in a single day, however in the event you depart 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 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 take pleasure in skyline views of downtown Toronto. It’s open year-round, and throughout 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 japanese 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 without doubt one of the greatest on the earth. Residence to over 5,000 unique animals and an ideal 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.
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 the 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 points of interest 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 beneath 2 hours embrace 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 automotive and may also be reached by bus or prepare. You may 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 selections for nature escapes beneath 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 an extended drive however doable in the event you begin early and plan to remain out late.
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