In search of the greatest day journeys from Toronto? Whether or not you’re craving waterfalls, wineries, seashores, or small cities, Ontario is full of unbelievable locations to discover only a quick drive from town. One of the 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 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 may head out within the morning and be again dwelling in time for supper. When 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 certainly one 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 may go from metropolis site visitors to forest trails in below 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 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 incredible scenic lookout level on the high with sweeping views of the encompassing rolling hills.
Milton sits proper on the Bruce Path, so the mountain climbing is incredible. 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 acquired Rattlesnake Level and Mount Nemo. These spots are a dream for rock climbers and hikers. In order for you a difficult hike, you may sort out the Satan’s Punchbowl.
2. Hamilton Waterfalls
Hamilton just 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 few of the best-known falls are Webster’s Falls, Albion Falls, and Tews Falls. When you’ve acquired a full day, you may simply slot in a couple of of them and nonetheless have time for a brewery cease or two on the town. When you’re looking for the picturesque Bridal Veil Falls, it’s price a slight detour.
Spencer Gorge Conservation Space provides unbelievable views, particularly through the fall. We all the time 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 accomplished it as a day journey extra occasions than we are able to rely. In winter, we’re normally snowboarding down the slopes, and in the summertime, it’s all about mountain climbing, biking, or simply wandering via Blue Mountain Village with an ice cream in hand.
Different points of interest 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 greatest views within the space.
When 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
Positioned simply over an hour from 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 had been shocked at how enjoyable and accessible it was. You can even hire canoes close by and luxuriate in quiet stretches of water.
When you’re craving a little bit of journey, Ganaraska Forest is a wild solution 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 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 below 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 well 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 high choose for households visiting Toronto.
When 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 complete 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 wonderful artwork galleries.
There’s a powerful 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 high.
8. Niagara Falls
Niagara Falls is a world-class vacation spot that’s surprisingly doable in a day. The Canadian aspect of Horseshoe Falls provides guests a more in-depth 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 occasions we go.
E-book 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. If you’re accomplished, 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 may 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 provides small-town appeal, 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 sort of place you’ll need to linger a little bit longer.
You’ll be able to simply mix a Niagara Falls journey with Niagara-on-the-Lake. They’re solely 20 minutes aside. You’ll be able to e book day excursions to Niagara on the Lake and see its high 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 pink and gold. In summer time, 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 1,000,000 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 via 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 retailers price testing earlier than you head again to town.
11. Elora
Elora has all the time been a little bit of a secret spot, although it’s positively 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 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 offer you postcard-worthy views at each flip. When you’re into tubing or kayaking, deliver your gear or hire some on the town—it’s among the finest spots for river adventures in southern Ontario.
And sure, the Elora Quarry has been in a couple of Hollywood films, but it surely’s even higher in individual.
12. Paris
We may be a little bit 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 usually out on it with our paddleboards or kayaks. After a couple of hours on the water, we’ll normally cease for lunch at Stillwaters or Camp 31, then stroll via the downtown strip to browse the retailers. It’s one avenue, but it surely packs a punch.
When you’re a bicycle owner, deliver your bike. You’ll be able to trip all the best way 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 the whole lot. 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 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 actually, the actual 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 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 high spots in Ontario for cross-country biking.
We’ve spent numerous days right here tackling the whole lot from mellow inexperienced trails to tight, rooty singletrack. When 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 acquired a strong 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 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 children or animal lovers.
Kitchener-Waterloo has all the time flown a little bit below the radar, but it surely’s quietly turn out 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 acquired 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 best way right here from Paris alongside the Grand River trails—if you happen to’re feeling formidable, it’s a wonderful trip.
17. Wasaga Seaside
Want a seaside break? Wasaga Seaside provides a protracted sandy shoreline and nice summer time power. 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 earth. 14 kilometers of soppy sand and shallow, heat water. After 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 kind 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 actually, we’d nonetheless do it. In Port Dover, we love strolling the pier and visiting the Gibraltar Level Lighthouse reproduction. It’s acquired 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. When you’re into quirky finds, spend a while looking 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 couple of wineries or brewpubs, and replenish your bar at dwelling. It’s a laid-back day that all the time 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 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 all the time make some extent of stopping by Lock 21, the world’s highest hydraulic carry lock. It sounds technical, but it surely’s truly actually cool to observe boats rise and fall like they’re on a theme park trip. When 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 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. 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 normally make it a full-day loop, hitting the vineyards, sandy shores, and small cities alongside the best way.
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 images from the sting and don’t trample the crops. That good 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 full of 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. When you’re a cider fan, there are alternatives for that too. Whether or not you’re planning a romantic getaway or on the lookout for 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 accomplished it greater than as soon as, particularly after we’re craving nature with a capital N.
When you go away early, you may nonetheless squeeze in a full day of mountain climbing, paddling, or moose recognizing earlier than heading again. Oxtongue Lake is a superb place to begin for novices, and if you wish to dip your toes into backcountry life with out committing to a full tenting journey, Algonquin Outfitters provides glorious one-day guided excursions .
This park is huge, over 7,600 sq. kilometers of wilderness, and it’s among the finest 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 received’t see the whole lot 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? E-book this Toronto to Algonquin Provincial Park non-public Tour.
22. Bruce Peninsula Nationwide Park
We’re pushing the boundaries of a day journey right here, however if you happen to’re up for a protracted 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 dwelling to a number of the clearest water in Ontario and a number of 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. When you’re a scuba diver, Tobermory is a bucket record spot with chilly, clear water and sunken schooners ready to be explored. We normally suggest this one as an in a single day, however if you happen to go away 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 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 through the summer time months, it turns into a high 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
Positioned within the jap finish of town, the Toronto Zoo is a high attraction for animal lovers. We don’t usually suggest zoos, however the Toronto Zoo is among the greatest on the earth. House to over 5,000 unique animals and a terrific choice for households visiting Toronto, you may simply spend a full day exploring the assorted areas. It’s additionally close to Rouge Park if you happen to’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 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 exterior 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 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
A few of the high 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 automotive and may also be reached by bus or prepare. You’ll be able to simply go to high 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 below 90 minutes from Toronto. For an even 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 greatest accessed by automotive.
The Bruce Peninsula is the farthest really useful day journey, about 3.5 to 4 hours away. It’s a protracted drive however doable if you happen to begin early and plan to remain out late.
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