Looking for the very best day journeys from Toronto? Whether you’re craving waterfalls, wineries, seashores, or small cities, Ontario is full of unbelievable locations to discover only a quick drive from the town. The finest 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 seek 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.
Best Toronto Day Trips
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 dwelling in time for dinner. If 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 – Perfect Day Trip for Nature Lovers
Milton is one among our favourite straightforward 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 site visitors to forest trails in beneath an hour. When we want a fast escape into nature, that is the place we go.
The Kelso Conservation Area is a year-round spot for outside enjoyable. In the winter, we’ve snowboarded and snowshoed right here, and in the summertime, it’s all about climbing and mountain biking. There’s a unbelievable scenic lookout level on the prime with sweeping views of the encompassing rolling hills.
Milton sits proper on the Bruce Trail, so the climbing is unbelievable. One of our go-to routes is the Lime Kiln Trail. It’s quiet, peaceable, and off-limits to mountain bikes, which makes for a relaxed stroll within the woods.
Nearby, you’ve acquired Rattlesnake Point and Mount Nemo. These spots are a dream for rock climbers and hikers. If you need a difficult hike, you’ll be able to sort out the Devil’s Punchbowl.
2. Hamilton Waterfalls
Hamilton will not be the primary place that involves thoughts if 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.
Some of the best-known falls are Webster’s Falls, Albion Falls, and Tews Falls. If you’ve acquired 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. If you’re searching for the picturesque Bridal Veil Falls, it’s value a slight detour.
Spencer Gorge Conservation Area presents unbelievable views, particularly in the course of the fall. We at all times suggest reserving your time slot forward. During 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 depend. In winter, we’re often snowboarding down the slopes, and in the summertime, it’s all about climbing, biking, or simply wandering by means of Blue Mountain Village with an ice cream in hand.
Other points of interest round Blue Mountain embrace the Scenic Caves in Collingwood, which was one among our first Toronto day journeys. There’s a suspension bridge, ziplining, and caves to discover. Nearby scenic hikes provide guests among the finest views within the space.
If you’re in want of a recharge, Scandinave Spa is a unbelievable 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
Located simply over an hour from the town, Ganaraska Forest is an off-the-grid gem good for outside journey. We took a mud biking course with Trail Tours and had been shocked at how enjoyable and accessible it was. You also can hire canoes close by and revel in quiet stretches of water.
If you’re craving a little bit of journey, Ganaraska Forest is a wild option to spend the day. Located 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. Read 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 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 contemporary air—and the suspension bridge alone is well worth the drive.
6. Canada’s Wonderland
Located 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’re an animal lover, don’t miss the petting zoo in KidZville. From thrill rides to enjoyable by the water, you’ll be able to simply spend a complete day right here.
7. Stratford
Stratford is one among Ontario’s most charming cities, and we’ve been making journeys right here for years. Known for its Shakespearean theatre and romantic getaway vibes, the city additionally boasts native outlets, quaint cafés, a rose backyard, and beautiful artwork galleries.
There’s a powerful arts and culinary scene right here, too. Between the historic structure, boutique accommodations, and native meals markets, Stratford is a day journey that blends tradition and attraction with out making an attempt too arduous. And should 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 presents 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.
Book a small group tour or hire a automotive and hit all of the highlights like Journey Behind the Falls, White Water Walk, and the Niagara SkyWheel. When 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 should you time it proper, you’ll be able to pack in a ton of experiences while not having to remain in a single day.
Start early. Sunrise over the falls is underrated, and also you’ll beat the crowds. Check Niagara Day Tours Here.
9. Niagara-on-the-Lake
This historic city on Lake Ontario presents small-town attraction, boutique wineries, and the enduring Shaw Festival. Main Street is lined with quaint outlets and native cafes. Whether you’re exploring on foot or becoming a member of a wine area tasting tour, you’ll fall in love with the slower tempo.
History 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 just a little longer.
You can simply mix a Niagara Falls journey with Niagara-on-the-Lake. They are solely 20 minutes aside. You 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 outside exercise vacation spot. Rent canoes, pack a picnic, or simply benefit from the views. During the autumn, it turns into a painter’s palette of crimson 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. Think winding roads, crystal-clear lakes, and that unmistakable scent of pine timber and campfires. We’ve spent entire days paddling on Lake Muskoka, climbing by means of the woods, and searching down butter tarts in Gravenhurst
There are loads of cities to discover, too. Bracebridge, Huntsville, and Port Carling all have their very own attraction, 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 undoubtedly gaining in recognition—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 good for a day journey.
Back 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 critically stunning 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 climbing trails provide you with postcard-worthy views at each flip. If you’re into tubing or kayaking, deliver your gear or hire 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 motion pictures, but it surely’s even higher in individual.
12. Paris
We is likely to be just a little biased, however Paris is likely 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 means 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 means of the downtown strip to browse the outlets. It’s one road, but it surely packs a punch.
If you’re a bike owner, deliver your bike. You can trip all the way in which to Brantford and even Ancaster alongside related trails that weave by means of the countryside. And earlier than you permit, swing by the Wincey Mills Market for native cheese, baked items, and small-batch every little thing. It’s our go-to Saturday morning spot.
13. Brantford
Just a brief 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 means of right here too, so tubing, kayaking, and riverside strolls are all on the desk. The trails between Paris and Brantford are a few of our favorites for biking.
And sure, there’s a on line casino should 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 means of the forest on mountain bikes, getting coated in grime, 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 every little thing from mellow inexperienced trails to tight, rooty singletrack. If you’re new to mountain biking, don’t fear. They hire gear and provide 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 acquired a strong cafeteria too, so no have to pack lunch. Just 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 fashionable attraction 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 should you’re touring with children or animal lovers.
Kitchener-Waterloo has at all times flown just a little beneath the radar, but it surely’s quietly turn into one among our favourite day journeys from Toronto. Just over an hour away, this twin-city hub blends old-world attraction 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.
While you’re on the market, try the Cambridge Butterfly Conservatory or take a stroll by means of the historic city of Galt. We’ve even cycled all the way in which right here from Paris alongside the Grand River trails—should you’re feeling formidable, it’s a wonderful trip.
17. Wasaga Beach
Need a seashore break? Wasaga Beach presents a protracted sandy shoreline and nice summer time vitality. Wasaga Beach 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. When 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. Grab a chew 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 looks like a correct old-school seashore 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 Point Lighthouse reproduction. 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’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 Point or Port Burwell, hit a couple of wineries or brewpubs, and fill up your bar at dwelling. It’s a laid-back day that at all times ends with full stomachs and clinking bottles within the trunk. Check out 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 should you’ve ever puzzled what traditional 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 would possibly count on.
We at all times make some extent of stopping by Lock 21, the world’s highest hydraulic elevate lock. It sounds technical, but it surely’s truly actually cool to look at boats rise and fall like they’re on a theme park trip. If 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 Lady 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. Trust 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. 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. End the day at Publican House 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.
Start with a morning drive by means 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 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 consider we’re not someplace tropical.
And after all, the wine. Prince Edward County is full of boutique wineries, and most provide tastings. We have a tendency to go away with a couple of new bottles for the rack and quite a lot of new favorites. If you’re a cider fan, there are alternatives for that too. Whether you’re planning a romantic getaway or trying for 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 once we’re craving nature with a capital N.
If you permit 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 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 presents glorious one-day guided excursions .
This park is huge, over 7,600 sq. kilometers of wilderness, and it’s among the best 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 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? Book this Toronto to Algonquin Provincial Park personal Tour.
22. Bruce Peninsula National Park
We’re pushing the boundaries of a day journey right here, however should 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 dwelling to among the clearest water in Ontario and among 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 Trail, and snorkeling shipwrecks in Fathom Five National Marine Park. If you’re a scuba diver, Tobermory is a bucket listing spot with chilly, clear water and sunken schooners ready to be explored. We often suggest this one as an in a single day, however should you 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 the town for a day journey. Hop on a ferry to the Toronto Islands and discover Ward’s Island, picnic close to the Gibraltar Point Lighthouse, or simply get pleasure from 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 traditional metropolis skyline of Toronto is taken from right here.
24. Bonus: The Toronto Zoo
Located 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 likely one of the finest on the earth. Home to over 5,000 unique animals and a terrific possibility for households visiting Toronto, you’ll be able to simply spend a full day exploring the varied areas. It’s additionally close to Rouge Park should you’re trying so as to add a hike to your outing.
Final Tips
Whether you’re planning your first go to or simply seeking to discover extra of your individual yard, these day journeys from Toronto provide one thing for everybody. From scenic hikes to artwork galleries, and from petting zoos to wine tastings, there’s a world ready simply exterior the town.
Before heading out, try St. Lawrence Market for snacks and picnic gear. And don’t neglect to verify ferry and park schedules, many locations are open year-round, however some points of interest are seasonal.
Ready to go? Pack the automotive, seize your digicam, and let Ontario shock you.
FAQ – Day Trips from Toronto
Some of the highest day journeys from Toronto beneath 2 hours embrace Niagara Falls, Elora, Stratford, Paris, Wasaga Beach, Caledon, Hamilton, and St. Jacobs. These locations provide a mixture of nature, meals, tradition, and enjoyable.
Yes, completely. Niagara Falls is simply 90 minutes from Toronto by automotive and will also be reached by bus or practice. You 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 selections for nature escapes beneath 90 minutes from Toronto. For an even bigger journey, head to Algonquin Park or the Bruce Peninsula.
Yes, you’ll be able to attain locations like Niagara Falls, Hamilton, and St. Jacobs by GO Transit, VIA Rail, or coach excursions. However, many of the scenic parks and conservation areas are finest accessed by automotive.
The Bruce Peninsula is the farthest beneficial day journey, about 3.5 to 4 hours away. It’s a protracted drive however doable should you begin early and plan to remain out late.
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