In search of one of the best 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. The perfect 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.
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. In case 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 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 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 improbable 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 improbable. 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 bought Rattlesnake Level and Mount Nemo. These spots are a dream for rock climbers and hikers. If you would like a difficult hike, you possibly can deal with the Satan’s Punchbowl.
2. Hamilton Waterfalls
Hamilton will not be the primary place that involves thoughts whenever 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 bought a full day, you possibly can simply slot in just a few of them and nonetheless have time for a brewery cease or two on the town. In case you’re trying to find the picturesque Bridal Veil Falls, it’s price a slight detour.
Spencer Gorge Conservation Space affords unbelievable views, particularly through the fall. We all the time 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 accomplished 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.
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 provide guests a number of the greatest views within the space.
In case you’re in want of a recharge, Scandinave Spa is a improbable 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 town, Ganaraska Forest is an off-the-grid gem good 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 revel in quiet stretches of water.
In case you’re craving a little bit of journey, Ganaraska Forest is a wild approach 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 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 well worth the drive.
6. Canada’s Wonderland
Deb is on the precise
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 case you’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 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 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 motels, and native meals markets, Stratford is a day journey that blends tradition and appeal with out making an attempt too arduous. And when 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 affords guests a better 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, 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. While 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 when 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 affords small-town appeal, boutique wineries, and the long-lasting Shaw Competition. Major 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 form of place you’ll need to linger slightly longer.
You possibly can simply mix a Niagara Falls journey with Niagara-on-the-Lake. They’re solely 20 minutes aside. You possibly can 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 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 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 scent of pine bushes and campfires. We’ve spent complete days paddling on Lake Muskoka, climbing by means of 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 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 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 offer you postcard-worthy views at each flip. In case you’re into tubing or kayaking, carry 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 just a few Hollywood films, nevertheless it’s even higher in individual.
12. Paris
We is likely to 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 means of city, and we’re usually out on it with our paddleboards or kayaks. After just a few 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, nevertheless it packs a punch.
In case you’re a bike owner, carry your bike. You possibly can trip all the best way to Brantford and even Ancaster alongside linked trails that weave by means of the countryside. And earlier than you allow, 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 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 paths between Paris and Brantford are a few of our favorites for biking.
And sure, there’s a on line casino when you’re feeling fortunate, however actually, 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 once we need to really feel like children once more—flying by means of the forest on mountain bikes, getting lined in grime, 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 all the pieces from mellow inexperienced trails to tight, rooty singletrack. In case you’re new to mountain biking, don’t fear. They lease gear and provide 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 bought 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 full of scenic hikes, strolling trails, and an amazing 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 when you’re touring with children or animal lovers.
Kitchener-Waterloo has all the time flown slightly beneath the radar, nevertheless 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 appeal with cutting-edge innovation. You’ve bought Google and Blackberry places of work on one aspect of city and Mennonite markets and horse-drawn buggies on the opposite.
Whilst 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 best way right here from Paris alongside the Grand River trails—when you’re feeling bold, it’s a wonderful trip.
17. Wasaga Seaside
Want a seashore break? Wasaga Seaside affords an extended sandy shoreline and nice summer time power. Wasaga Seaside is a summer time basic. It’s about an hour and 40 minutes from Toronto and residential to the longest freshwater seashore on the earth. 14 kilometers of sentimental 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 chunk 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 bought that basic 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. In case 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 Level or Port Burwell, hit just a few wineries or brewpubs, and refill 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 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 when you’ve ever puzzled what basic Canadian cottage nation appears to be like 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 raise lock. It sounds technical, nevertheless it’s truly actually cool to observe boats rise and fall like they’re on a theme park trip. 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 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 transferring.
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 means of 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 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 full of boutique wineries, and most provide tastings. We have a tendency to go away with just a few 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 in search of journey ideas 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 once we’re craving nature with a capital N.
In case you depart early, you possibly can nonetheless squeeze in a full day of climbing, paddling, or moose recognizing earlier than heading again. Oxtongue Lake is a superb start line for rookies, 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 excursions .
This park is huge, 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 highway greater than as soon as, simply hanging out prefer it’s no massive deal.
You received’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 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 when you’re up for an extended drive and a full day open air, 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 greatest climbing within the province. The Grotto in Tobermory is the star of the present, a cave full of 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 case you’re a scuba diver, Tobermory is a bucket record spot with chilly, clear water and sunken schooners ready to be explored. We often advocate this one as an in a single day, however when 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 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 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 one of the best place to absorb views of the Toronto Skyline. That basic 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 without doubt one of the greatest on the earth. Dwelling to over 5,000 unique animals and an amazing choice for households visiting Toronto, you possibly can simply spend a full day exploring the assorted areas. It’s additionally close to Rouge Park when you’re trying so as to add a hike to your outing.
Closing Ideas
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 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 town.
Earlier than heading out, try 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 automotive, seize your digital camera, and let Ontario shock you.
FAQ – Day Journeys from Toronto
What are one of the best day journeys from Toronto beneath 2 hours?
A number of the prime day journeys from Toronto beneath 2 hours embody Niagara Falls, Elora, Stratford, Paris, Wasaga Seaside, Caledon, Hamilton, and St. Jacobs. These locations provide a mixture of nature, meals, tradition, and enjoyable.
Are you able to do a day journey to Niagara Falls from Toronto?
Sure, completely. Niagara Falls is simply 90 minutes from Toronto by automotive and can be reached by bus or practice. You possibly can simply go to prime sights just like the Hornblower boat cruise, Journey Behind the Falls, and Clifton Hill in a single day.
What’s one of the best nature escape close to Toronto for a day journey?
Milton, Elora Gorge, and the Hamilton waterfalls are all wonderful selections for nature escapes beneath 90 minutes from Toronto. For a much bigger journey, head to Algonquin Park or the Bruce Peninsula.
Are there day journeys from Toronto by public transit?
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.
What’s the farthest day journey from Toronto on this record?
The Bruce Peninsula is the farthest really useful day journey, about 3.5 to 4 hours away. It’s an extended drive however doable when you begin early and plan to remain out late.
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