Looking for the best day trips from Toronto? Whether you’re craving waterfalls, wineries, beaches, or small towns, Ontario is full of incredible places to explore just a brief drive from town. The best day trips from Toronto include 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 trust us, you don’t have to go far to search out adventure. From hiking trails along the Niagara Escarpment to paddling the Grand River or sipping wine in Prince Edward County, there’s a day trip here for everybody.
Best Toronto Day Trips
Most of those destinations are inside a 2-hour drive from Toronto, so you may head out within the morning and be back home in meal time. If you’re short on time but big on wanderlust, these are the highest 25 Toronto day trips so as to add to your weekend plans.
1. Milton – Perfect Day Trip for Nature Lovers
Milton is one in all our favourite easy day trips from Toronto, and it’s only about 40 minutes away. It’s the sort of place where you may go from city traffic to forest trails in under an hour. When we want a fast escape into nature, that is where we go.
The Kelso Conservation Area is a year-round spot for outdoor fun. In the winter, we’ve snowboarded and snowshoed here, and in the summertime, it’s all about hiking and mountain biking. There’s a improbable scenic lookout point at the highest with sweeping views of the encircling rolling hills.
Milton sits right on the Bruce Trail, so the hiking is improbable. One of our go-to routes is the Lime Kiln Trail. It’s quiet, peaceful, and off-limits to mountain bikes, which makes for a relaxed walk within the woods.
Nearby, you’ve got Rattlesnake Point and Mount Nemo. These spots are a dream for rock climbers and hikers. If you would like a difficult hike, you may tackle the Devil’s Punchbowl.
2. Hamilton Waterfalls
Hamilton shouldn’t be the primary place that involves mind while you consider waterfalls, but once we discovered it, we were hooked. With greater than 100 waterfalls scattered around town, it’s earned its nickname because the Waterfall Capital of the World—and it’s only about an hour from Toronto.
Some of the best-known falls are Webster’s Falls, Albion Falls, and Tews Falls. If you’ve got a full day, you may easily slot in just a few of them and still have time for a brewery stop or two on the town. If you’re looking for the picturesque Bridal Veil Falls, it’s value a slight detour.
Spencer Gorge Conservation Area offers incredible views, especially in the course of the fall. We all the time recommend booking your time slot ahead. During the summer months, the paths can get busy with tourists alike.
3. Blue Mountain
Blue Mountain is a little bit of a drive from Toronto—just over two hours—but we’ve done it as a day trip more times than we are able to count. In winter, we’re often snowboarding down the slopes, and in the summertime, it’s all about hiking, biking, or simply wandering through Blue Mountain Village with an ice cream in hand.
Other attractions around Blue Mountain include the Scenic Caves in Collingwood, which was one in all our first Toronto day trips. There’s a suspension bridge, ziplining, and caves to explore. Nearby scenic hikes offer visitors a few of the most effective views in the world.
If you’re in need of a recharge, Scandinave Spa is a improbable 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
Located just over an hour from town, Ganaraska Forest is an off-the-grid gem perfect for outdoor adventure. We took a dust biking course with Trail Tours and were shocked at how fun and accessible it was. You can even rent canoes nearby and revel in quiet stretches of water.
If you’re craving a little bit of adventure, Ganaraska Forest is a wild technique to spend the day. Located just over an hour from Toronto, it’s where we went to get our first taste of dirt biking—and it didn’t disappoint. Read all about it here.
5. Ferris Provincial Park
About two hours from Toronto, Ferris Provincial Park is home to the Ranney Gorge Suspension Bridge and a network of walking trails that result in scenic picnic areas. It’s one in all those places that flies under the radar but is unquestionably value visiting.
This hidden gem is a quiet spot to flee the crowds, stretch your legs, and get some fresh air—and the suspension bridge alone is well worth the drive.
6. Canada’s Wonderland
Located just 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 top pick for families visiting Toronto.
If you’re an animal lover, don’t miss the petting zoo in KidZville. From thrill rides to relaxing by the water, you may easily spend a complete day here.
7. Stratford
Stratford is one in all Ontario’s most charming towns, and we’ve been making trips here for years. Known for its Shakespearean theatre and romantic getaway vibes, the town also boasts local shops, quaint cafés, a rose garden, and beautiful art galleries.
There’s a robust arts and culinary scene here, too. Between the historic architecture, boutique hotels, and native food markets, Stratford is a day trip that blends culture and charm without trying too hard. And in case you’re lucky enough to catch a show, that’s the cherry on top.
8. Niagara Falls
Niagara Falls is a world-class destination that’s surprisingly doable in a day. The Canadian side of Horseshoe Falls offers visitors a better and more powerful view than the American Falls. From the CN Tower to the falls, that is the sort of day trip that also wows us, irrespective of how again and again we go.
Book a small group tour or rent a automotive and hit all of the highlights like Journey Behind the Falls, White Water Walk, and the Niagara SkyWheel. When you’re done, stroll Clifton Hill or hop aboard the Hornblower cruise for up-close spray and selfies.
It’s only 90 minutes away, and in case you time it right, you may pack in a ton of experiences while not having to remain overnight.
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 town on Lake Ontario offers small-town charm, boutique wineries, and the enduring Shaw Festival. Main Street is lined with quaint shops and native cafes. Whether you’re exploring on foot or joining a wine region tasting tour, you’ll fall in love with the slower pace.
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 a bit longer.
You can easily mix a Niagara Falls trip with Niagara-on-the-Lake. They are only 20 minutes apart. You can book day tours to Niagara on the Lake and see its top sights.
10. Muskoka
With its rolling hills, sparkling lakes, and iconic docks, Muskoka is the perfect outdoor activity destination. Rent canoes, pack a picnic, or simply benefit from the views. During the autumn, it becomes a painter’s palette of red and gold. In summer, Friday Harbour can be value a visit for lakeside dining and water sports.
It’s about two hours from Toronto, but when you’re there, you’ll feel 1,000,000 miles away. Think winding roads, crystal-clear lakes, and that unmistakable smell of pine trees and campfires. We’ve spent whole days paddling on Lake Muskoka, hiking through the woods, and hunting down butter tarts in Gravenhurst
There are loads of towns to explore, too. Bracebridge, Huntsville, and Port Carling all have their very own charm, with local cafés, breweries, and shops value testing before you head back to town.
11. Elora
Elora has all the time been a little bit of a secret spot, though it’s definitely gaining in popularity—and for good reason. It’s only about 90 minutes from Toronto, and it has a mixture of natural beauty and small-town character that makes it perfect for a day trip.
Back in highschool, this was where everyone went to flee for the afternoon. Now, it’s a refined little town with boutiques, bakeries, and one seriously beautiful pedestrian square called the Elora Mews. You’ll wish to grab a coffee and just wander.
The Elora Gorge is the actual showstopper. The cliffs tower above the Grand River and the hiking trails provide you with postcard-worthy views at every turn. If you’re into tubing or kayaking, bring your gear or rent some on the town—it’s top-of-the-line spots for river adventures in southern Ontario.
And yes, the Elora Quarry has been in just a few Hollywood movies, nevertheless it’s even higher in person.
12. Paris
We is likely to be a bit biased, but Paris is one in all the prettiest small towns in Ontario, and now that we live here, we’ve gotten to know every trail, river bend, and bakery. It’s just over an hour from Toronto and makes for an ideal, low-key day trip.
The Grand River runs throughout town, and we’re often out on it with our paddleboards or kayaks. After just a few hours on the water, we’ll often stop for lunch at Stillwaters or Camp 31, then stroll through the downtown strip to browse the shops. It’s one street, nevertheless it packs a punch.
If you’re a cyclist, bring your bike. You can ride all of the technique to Brantford and even Ancaster along connected trails that weave through the countryside. And before you allow, swing by the Wincey Mills Market for local cheese, baked goods, and small-batch every thing. It’s our go-to Saturday morning spot.
13. Brantford
Just a brief drive from Paris, Brantford has its own stories to inform. It’s where Alexander Graham Bell made the first-ever long-distance phone call—and you may visit the Bell Homestead to see where all of it happened. The home is beautifully preserved and surprisingly fun to tour.
The Grand River flows through here too, so tubing, kayaking, and riverside strolls are all on the table. The trails between Paris and Brantford are a few of our favorites for biking.
And yes, there’s a casino in case you’re feeling lucky, but truthfully, the actual jackpot is spending a day exploring two river towns which have more to supply than most individuals realize.
14. Hardwood Hills
Hardwood Hills is where we go when we wish to feel like kids again—flying through the forest on mountain bikes, getting covered in dirt, and laughing the entire way. It’s about 90 minutes from Toronto and it’s one in all the highest spots in Ontario for cross-country biking.
We’ve spent countless days here tackling every thing from mellow green trails to tight, rooty singletrack. If you’re latest to mountain biking, don’t worry. They rent gear and offer lessons, so you may ease into it. There’s even a warm-up loop to get your confidence up before you hit the longer routes.
They’ve got a solid cafeteria too, so no have to pack lunch. Just bring your gear, grab a trail map, and prepare for a full-body workout that ends with a smile.
15. Caledon
Between the Cheltenham Badlands, Spirit Tree Cidery, and Albion Hills, Caledon is full of scenic hikes, walking trails, and a fantastic mixture of nature and food. A rock garden near the conservation area even reminded us of something out of the Royal Botanical Gardens.
16. Kitchener Waterloo
With tech start-ups and traditional Mennonite culture, Waterloo blends modern charm with old-world values. Don’t miss the St. Jacobs Farmers Market is Canada’s largest year-round farmers’ market, or a visit to the African Lion Safari nearby in case you’re traveling with kids or animal lovers.
Kitchener-Waterloo has all the time flown a bit under the radar, nevertheless it’s quietly turn into one in all our favourite day trips from Toronto. Just over an hour away, this twin-city hub blends old-world charm with cutting-edge innovation. You’ve got Google and Blackberry offices on one side of town 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 through the historic town of Galt. We’ve even cycled all the best way here from Paris along the Grand River trails—in case you’re feeling ambitious, it’s a good looking ride.
17. Wasaga Beach
Need a beach break? Wasaga Beach offers an extended sandy shoreline and great summer energy. Wasaga Beach is a summer classic. It’s about an hour and 40 minutes from Toronto and residential to the longest freshwater beach on the earth. 14 kilometers of soppy sand and shallow, warm water. When we’re within the mood for a correct beach day without driving all of the technique to a resort, that is where we go.
You’ll find a mixture of beachgoers, families constructing sandcastles, teens tossing frisbees, and paddleboarders cruising along the shoreline. It gets busy, especially on weekends, but that’s a part of the vibe. Grab a bite at a beachside diner, bring a cooler, and settle in for the afternoon.
18. Port Dover
Port Dover is one in all those places that also looks like a correct old-school beach town. We used to drive here from Toronto simply to get a hot dog at The Arbor and sit by the water. And truthfully, we’d still do it. In Port Dover, we love walking the pier and visiting the Gibraltar Point Lighthouse replica. It’s got that classic Ontario beach town vibe.
The town has a chill vibe with a sandy beach, a pier that’s perfect for sunset walks, and enough little shops and cafés to maintain you busy. If you’re into quirky finds, spend a while browsing the local antiques and vintage shops.
We wish to use Port Dover as a start line for a mini road trip along Lake Erie. Drive to Turkey Point or Port Burwell, hit just a few wineries or brewpubs, and refill your bar at home. It’s a laid-back day that all the time ends with full stomachs and clinking bottles within the trunk. Check out TripAdvisor for a listing of vineyard and breweries in Norfolk County.
19. Peterborough and the Kawarthas
Peterborough sits right in the guts of the Kawarthas, and in case you’ve ever wondered what classic Canadian cottage country looks like, that is it. It’s about 90 minutes from Toronto, and there’s more to do here than you would possibly expect.
We all the time make a degree of stopping by Lock 21, the world’s highest hydraulic lift lock. It sounds technical, nevertheless it’s actually really cool to look at boats rise and fall like they’re on a theme park ride. If you’re into paddling, the Trent-Severn Waterway is a scenic stretch to explore by canoe or kayak. For something truly unique, visit the Lady Immaculate statue for a scenic lookout point.
The Canadian Canoe Museum can be here, and it’s far more interesting than it sounds. Trust us, we didn’t think we’d be that into canoe history either, however the stories and Indigenous craftsmanship behind all of it are pretty moving.
Peterborough also has a growing food and humanities scene. One of our favourite stops is the Whetung Ojibwa Centre, which supports local artists and has a stunning collection of paintings, carvings, beadwork, and handmade goods. 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 happens when wine country meets wild beaches and sunflowers. And it’s only about two hours from Toronto. We often make it a full-day loop, hitting the vineyards, sandy shores, and small towns along the best way.
Start with a morning drive through the backroads to catch the lavender and sunflower fields in bloom. They’re wildly photogenic, but be respectful, take your photos from the sting and don’t trample the crops. That perfect Instagram shot isn’t value ruining someone’s harvest.
Presqu’ile and Sandbanks Provincial Parks are the large draws for beach lovers. We’ve spent afternoons floating on the dunes at Sandbanks and still can’t consider we’re not somewhere tropical.
And after all, the wine. Prince Edward County is full of boutique wineries, and most offer tastings. We are inclined to leave with just a few latest bottles for the rack and greater than just a few latest favorites. If you’re a cider fan, there are alternatives for that too. Whether you’re planning a romantic getaway or on the lookout for travel tips for visiting Toronto’s best wine region, PEC checks every box.
21. Algonquin Provincial Park
Okay, we’ll admit it, Algonquin is a little bit of a stretch for a day trip. It’s about three hours from Toronto, but we’ve done it greater than once, especially after we’re craving nature with a capital N.
If you allow early, you may still squeeze in a full day of hiking, paddling, or moose spotting before heading back. Oxtongue Lake is a fantastic start line for beginners, and if you should dip your toes into backcountry life without committing to a full camping trip, Algonquin Outfitters offers excellent one-day guided tours .
This park is very large, over 7,600 square kilometers of wilderness, and it’s top-of-the-line places on the earth to see moose within the wild. We’ve spotted them along side the road greater than once, just hanging out prefer it’s no big deal.
You won’t see every thing in a day, but one taste of Algonquin and also you’ll be planning your next overnight before you’ve even left the parking zone. No automotive? Book this Toronto to Algonquin Provincial Park private Tour.
22. Bruce Peninsula National Park
We’re pushing the boundaries of a day trip here, but in case you’re up for an extended drive and a full day outdoors, 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 home to a number of the clearest water in Ontario and a few of the most effective hiking within the province. The Grotto in Tobermory is the star of the show, a cave stuffed with turquoise water that appears prefer it belongs in Greece.
We’ve spent days here mountaineering at Lion’s Head, hiking along the Bruce Trail, and snorkeling shipwrecks in Fathom Five National Marine Park. If you’re a scuba diver, Tobermory is a bucket list spot with cold, clear water and sunken schooners waiting to be explored. We often recommend this one as an overnight, but in case you leave before sunrise and don’t mind getting home late, it’s doable, and unforgettable.
23. The Toronto Islands
You don’t even need to go away town for a day trip. Hop on a ferry to the Toronto Islands and explore Ward’s Island, picnic near the Gibraltar Point Lighthouse, or simply enjoy skyline views of downtown Toronto. It’s open year-round, and in the course of the summer months, it becomes a top destination for each locals and tourists alike. The Toronto Islands are the most effective place to absorb views of the Toronto Skyline. That classic city skyline of Toronto is taken from here.
24. Bonus: The Toronto Zoo
Located within the eastern end of town, the Toronto Zoo is a top attraction for animal lovers. We don’t normally recommend zoos, however the Toronto Zoo is top-of-the-line on the earth. Home to over 5,000 exotic animals and a fantastic option for families visiting Toronto, you may easily spend a full day exploring the assorted regions. It’s also near Rouge Park in case you’re seeking to add a hike to your outing.
Final Tips
Whether you’re planning your first visit or simply seeking to explore more of your individual backyard, these day trips from Toronto offer something for everybody. From scenic hikes to art galleries, and from petting zoos to wine tastings, there’s a world waiting just outside town.
Before heading out, try St. Lawrence Market for snacks and picnic gear. And don’t forget to envision ferry and park schedules, many places are open year-round, but some attractions are seasonal.
Ready to go? Pack the automotive, grab your camera, and let Ontario surprise you.
FAQ – Day Trips from Toronto
Some of the highest day trips from Toronto under 2 hours include Niagara Falls, Elora, Stratford, Paris, Wasaga Beach, Caledon, Hamilton, and St. Jacobs. These destinations offer a mixture of nature, food, culture, and fun.
Yes, absolutely. Niagara Falls is just 90 minutes from Toronto by automotive and may also be reached by bus or train. You can easily visit top attractions 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 excellent selections for nature escapes under 90 minutes from Toronto. For a much bigger adventure, head to Algonquin Park or the Bruce Peninsula.
Yes, you may reach destinations like Niagara Falls, Hamilton, and St. Jacobs by GO Transit, VIA Rail, or coach tours. However, many of the scenic parks and conservation areas are best accessed by automotive.
The Bruce Peninsula is the farthest advisable day trip, about 3.5 to 4 hours away. It’s an extended drive but doable in case you start early and plan to remain out late.
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