Searching for 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 town. The perfect day journeys from Toronto embrace 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 case you’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 – 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 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 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 implausible 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 implausible. One among 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 obtained Rattlesnake Level and Mount Nemo. These spots are a dream for rock climbers and hikers. If you would like a difficult hike, you may deal with the Satan’s Punchbowl.

2. Hamilton Waterfalls

Hamilton just isn’t 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.

A number of the best-known falls are Webster’s Falls, Albion Falls, and Tews Falls. In case you’ve obtained 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. In case you’re looking for the picturesque Bridal Veil Falls, it’s price a slight detour.

Spencer Gorge Conservation Space affords unbelievable views, particularly in the course of the fall. We all the time suggest reserving your time slot forward. In the course of 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 normally 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 points of interest round Blue Mountain embrace 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 case you’re in want of a recharge, Scandinave Spa is a implausible 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 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 also lease canoes close by and luxuriate in quiet stretches of water.

In case you’re craving a little bit of journey, Ganaraska Forest is a wild method 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 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 certainly 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

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 prime choose for households visiting Toronto.

In case you’re an animal lover, don’t miss the petting zoo in KidZville. From thrill rides to stress-free 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. Recognized 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 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 allure with out making an attempt too laborious. 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 aspect of Horseshoe Falls affords 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, regardless of what number of occasions we go.

E book a small group tour or lease a automobile and hit all of the highlights like Journey Behind the Falls, White Water Stroll, and the Niagara SkyWheel. Once 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 while not having to remain in a single day.

Begin early. Dawn 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 affords small-town allure, boutique wineries, and the long-lasting Shaw Competition. Primary Avenue 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 wish to linger a bit of 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 tours 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 outside exercise vacation spot. Hire canoes, pack a picnic, or simply benefit from the views. In the course of the fall, it turns into a painter’s palette of pink and gold. In summer time, Friday Harbour can also 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. Suppose winding roads, crystal-clear lakes, and that unmistakable odor of pine timber and campfires. We’ve spent entire 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 outlets 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 undoubtedly gaining in reputation—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 excellent 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. known as the Elora Mews. You’ll wish to seize a espresso and simply wander.

The Elora Gorge is the actual showstopper. The cliffs tower above the Grand River and the climbing trails provide you with postcard-worthy views at each flip. In case you’re into tubing or kayaking, convey your gear or lease 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 motion pictures, nevertheless it’s even higher in individual.

12. Paris

We is perhaps a bit of 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 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 by the downtown strip to browse the outlets. It’s one avenue, nevertheless it packs a punch.

In case you’re a bicycle owner, convey your bike. You’ll be able to 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 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 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 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 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 wish to really feel like children once more—flying by the forest on mountain bikes, getting lined in dust, and laughing the entire method. 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. In case you’re new to mountain biking, don’t fear. They lease 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 obtained a strong cafeteria too, so no have to pack lunch. Simply convey 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 for those who’re touring with children or animal lovers.

Kitchener-Waterloo has all the time flown a bit of below the radar, nevertheless it’s quietly turn into 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 obtained Google and Blackberry workplaces 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 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 phenomenal experience.

17. Wasaga Seashore

Want a seaside break? Wasaga Seashore affords a protracted sandy shoreline and nice summer time vitality. Wasaga Seashore is a summer time basic. It’s about an hour and 40 minutes from Toronto and residential to the longest freshwater seaside on the earth. 14 kilometers of sentimental 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 chew at a beachside diner, convey a cooler, and settle in for the afternoon.

18. Port Dover

Port Dover is a type of locations that also seems 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 truthfully, we’d nonetheless do it. In Port Dover, we love strolling the pier and visiting the Gibraltar Level Lighthouse reproduction. It’s obtained that basic Ontario seaside city vibe.

The city has a chill vibe with a sandy seaside, a pier that’s excellent for sundown walks, and sufficient little outlets and cafés to maintain you busy. In case you’re into quirky finds, spend a while shopping 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 replenish your bar at house. It’s a laid-back day that all the time ends with full stomachs and clinking bottles within the trunk. Take a look at TripAdvisor for a listing of vineyard 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 basic 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 anticipate.

We all the time make some extent of stopping by Lock 21, the world’s highest hydraulic elevate 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. In case 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 Girl 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 among 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 normally 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 images 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 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 filled with boutique wineries, and most supply tastings. We have a tendency to depart with a couple of new bottles for the rack and quite a lot of new favorites. In case you’re a cider fan, there are alternatives for that too. Whether or not you’re planning a romantic getaway or searching for 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 achieved it greater than as soon as, particularly after we’re craving nature with a capital N.

In case 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 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 affords wonderful one-day guided tours .

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 along with the street greater than as soon as, simply hanging out prefer it’s no huge deal.

You gained’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 automobile? E book this Toronto to Algonquin Provincial Park private Tour.

22. Bruce Peninsula Nationwide Park

We’re pushing the boundaries of a day journey right here, however for those who’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 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 crammed with turquoise water that appears prefer it belongs in Greece.

We’ve spent days right here mountain climbing at Lion’s Head, climbing alongside the Bruce Path, and snorkeling shipwrecks in Fathom 5 Nationwide Marine Park. In case you’re a scuba diver, Tobermory is a bucket checklist spot with chilly, clear water and sunken schooners ready to be explored. We normally suggest 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 take pleasure in 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 perfect place to soak up views of the Toronto Skyline. That basic metropolis skyline of Toronto is taken from right here.

24. Bonus: The Toronto Zoo

Positioned within the japanese finish of 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. Residence to over 5,000 unique animals and an ideal possibility 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 wanting 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 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 overlook to verify ferry and park schedules, many locations are open year-round, however some points of interest are seasonal.

Able to go? Pack the automobile, seize your digital camera, and let Ontario shock you.

FAQ – Day Journeys from Toronto