Looking for the best day trips from Toronto? Whether you’re craving waterfalls, wineries, beaches, or small towns, Ontario is packed with incredible places to explore just a short drive from the city. The best day trips from Toronto include Niagara Falls, Elora, Blue Mountain, and Prince Edward County, all within 2 to 3 hours from the city.
We’ve lived in Toronto and traveled all around the province—and trust us, you don’t need to go far to find 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 everyone.
Best Toronto Day Trips
Most of these destinations are within a 2-hour drive from Toronto, so you can head out in the morning and be back home in time for dinner. If you’re short on time but big on wanderlust, these are the top 25 Toronto day trips to add to your weekend plans.
1. Milton – Perfect Day Trip for Nature Lovers
Milton is one of our favorite easy day trips from Toronto, and it’s only about 40 minutes away. It’s the kind of place where you can go from city traffic to forest trails in under an hour. When we need a quick escape into nature, this 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 summer, it’s all about hiking and mountain biking. There’s a fantastic scenic lookout point at the top with sweeping views of the surrounding rolling hills.
Milton sits right on the Bruce Trail, so the hiking is fantastic. 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 in the woods.
Nearby, you’ve got Rattlesnake Point and Mount Nemo. These spots are a dream for rock climbers and hikers. If you want a challenging hike, you can tackle the Devil’s Punchbowl.
2. Hamilton Waterfalls
Hamilton is not the first place that comes to mind when you think of waterfalls, but once we discovered it, we were hooked. With more than 100 waterfalls scattered around the city, it’s earned its nickname as 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 can easily fit in a few of them and still have time for a brewery stop or two in town. If you’re hunting for the picturesque Bridal Veil Falls, it’s worth a slight detour.
Spencer Gorge Conservation Area offers incredible views, especially during the fall. We always recommend booking your time slot ahead. During the summer months, the trails can get busy with tourists alike.
3. Blue Mountain
Blue Mountain is a bit of a drive from Toronto—just over two hours—but we’ve done it as a day trip more times than we can count. In winter, we’re usually snowboarding down the slopes, and in the summer, it’s all about hiking, biking, or just 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 of our first Toronto day trips. There’s a suspension bridge, ziplining, and caves to explore. Nearby scenic hikes offer visitors some of the best views in the area.
If you’re in need of a recharge, Scandinave Spa is a fantastic place for a romantic getaway. Surrounded by forest, it’s the perfect spot to soak, steam, and let the world fade away.
4. Ganaraska Forest
Located just over an hour from the city, Ganaraska Forest is an off-the-grid gem perfect for outdoor adventure. We took a dirt biking course with Trail Tours and were shocked at how fun and accessible it was. You can also rent canoes nearby and enjoy quiet stretches of water.
If you’re craving a bit of adventure, Ganaraska Forest is a wild way 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 did not 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 lead to scenic picnic areas. It’s one of those places that flies under the radar but is definitely worth visiting.
This hidden gem is a quiet spot to escape the crowds, stretch your legs, and get some fresh air—and the suspension bridge alone is 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 can easily spend an entire day here.
7. Stratford
Stratford is one of 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 lovely art galleries.
There’s a strong arts and culinary scene here, too. Between the historic architecture, boutique hotels, and local food markets, Stratford is a day trip that blends culture and charm without trying too hard. And if 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 closer and more powerful view than the American Falls. From the CN Tower to the falls, this is the kind of day trip that still wows us, no matter how many times we go.
Book a small group tour or rent a car and hit all 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 if you time it right, you can pack in a ton of experiences without needing to stay overnight.
Start early. Sunrise over the falls is underrated, and 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 iconic Shaw Festival. Main Street is lined with quaint shops and local 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 kind of place you’ll want to linger a little longer.
You can easily combine 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 ideal outdoor activity destination. Rent canoes, pack a picnic, or just enjoy the views. During the fall, it becomes a painter’s palette of red and gold. In summer, Friday Harbour is also worth a visit for lakeside dining and water sports.
It’s about two hours from Toronto, but once you’re there, you’ll feel a million 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 plenty of towns to explore, too. Bracebridge, Huntsville, and Port Carling all have their own charm, with local cafés, breweries, and shops worth checking out before you head back to the city.
11. Elora
Elora has always been a 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 mix of natural beauty and small-town character that makes it perfect for a day trip.
Back in high school, this was where everyone went to escape for the afternoon. Now, it’s a polished little town with boutiques, bakeries, and one seriously beautiful pedestrian square called the Elora Mews. You’ll want to grab a coffee and just wander.
The Elora Gorge is the real showstopper. The cliffs tower above the Grand River and the hiking trails give you postcard-worthy views at every turn. If you’re into tubing or kayaking, bring your gear or rent some in town—it’s one of the best spots for river adventures in southern Ontario.
And yes, the Elora Quarry has been in a few Hollywood movies, but it’s even better in person.
12. Paris
We might be a little biased, but Paris is one of 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 a perfect, low-key day trip.
The Grand River runs right through town, and we’re often out on it with our paddleboards or kayaks. After a few hours on the water, we’ll usually stop for lunch at Stillwaters or Camp 31, then stroll through the downtown strip to browse the shops. It’s one street, but it packs a punch.
If you’re a cyclist, bring your bike. You can ride all the way to Brantford or even Ancaster along connected trails that weave through the countryside. And before you leave, swing by the Wincey Mills Market for local cheese, baked goods, and small-batch everything. It’s our go-to Saturday morning spot.
13. Brantford
Just a short drive from Paris, Brantford has its own stories to tell. It’s where Alexander Graham Bell made the first-ever long-distance phone call—and you can visit the Bell Homestead to see where it all happened. The house 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 some of our favorites for biking.
And yes, there’s a casino if you’re feeling lucky, but honestly, the real jackpot is spending a day exploring two river towns that have more to offer than most people realize.
14. Hardwood Hills
Hardwood Hills is where we go when we want to feel like kids again—flying through the forest on mountain bikes, getting covered in dirt, and laughing the whole way. It’s about 90 minutes from Toronto and it’s one of the top spots in Ontario for cross-country biking.
We’ve spent countless days here tackling everything from mellow green trails to tight, rooty singletrack. If you’re new to mountain biking, don’t worry. They rent gear and offer lessons, so you can 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 need to pack lunch. Just bring your gear, grab a trail map, and get ready for a full-body workout that ends with a grin.
15. Caledon
Between the Cheltenham Badlands, Spirit Tree Cidery, and Albion Hills, Caledon is packed with scenic hikes, walking trails, and a great mix 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 if you’re traveling with kids or animal lovers.
Kitchener-Waterloo has always flown a little under the radar, but it’s quietly become one of our favorite 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 other.
While you’re out there, check out the Cambridge Butterfly Conservatory or take a stroll through the historic town of Galt. We’ve even cycled all the way here from Paris along the Grand River trails—if you’re feeling ambitious, it’s a beautiful ride.
17. Wasaga Beach
Need a beach break? Wasaga Beach offers a long sandy shoreline and great summer energy. Wasaga Beach is a summer classic. It’s about an hour and 40 minutes from Toronto and home to the longest freshwater beach in the world. 14 kilometers of soft sand and shallow, warm water. When we’re in the mood for a proper beach day without driving all the way to a resort, this is where we go.
You’ll find a mix of beachgoers, families building sandcastles, teens tossing frisbees, and paddleboarders cruising along the shoreline. It gets busy, especially on weekends, but that’s 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 of those places that still feels like a proper old-school beach town. We used to drive here from Toronto just to get a hot dog at The Arbor and sit by the water. And honestly, 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 keep you busy. If you’re into quirky finds, spend some time browsing the local antiques and vintage shops.
We like to use Port Dover as a starting point for a mini road trip along Lake Erie. Drive to Turkey Point or Port Burwell, hit a few wineries or brewpubs, and stock up your bar at home. It’s a laid-back day that always ends with full stomachs and clinking bottles in the trunk. Check out TripAdvisor for a list of vineyard and breweries in Norfolk County.
19. Peterborough and the Kawarthas
Peterborough sits right in the heart of the Kawarthas, and if you’ve ever wondered what classic Canadian cottage country looks like, this is it. It’s about 90 minutes from Toronto, and there’s more to do here than you might expect.
We always make a point of stopping by Lock 21, the world’s highest hydraulic lift lock. It sounds technical, but it’s actually really cool to watch 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 is also here, and it’s way more interesting than it sounds. Trust us, we didn’t think we’d be that into canoe history either, but the stories and Indigenous craftsmanship behind it all are pretty moving.
Peterborough also has a growing food and arts scene. One of our favorite stops is the Whetung Ojibwa Centre, which supports local artists and has a gorgeous collection of paintings, carvings, beadwork, and handmade goods. End the day at Publican House Brewery with a cold 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 usually make it a full-day loop, hitting the vineyards, sandy shores, and small towns along the 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 edge and don’t trample the crops. That perfect Instagram shot isn’t worth ruining someone’s harvest.
Presqu’ile and Sandbanks Provincial Parks are the big draws for beach lovers. We’ve spent afternoons floating on the dunes at Sandbanks and still can’t believe we’re not somewhere tropical.
And of course, the wine. Prince Edward County is packed with boutique wineries, and most offer tastings. We tend to leave with a few new bottles for the rack and more than a few new favorites. If you’re a cider fan, there are options for that too. Whether you’re planning a romantic getaway or looking 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 bit of a stretch for a day trip. It’s about three hours from Toronto, but we’ve done it more than once, especially when we’re craving nature with a capital N.
If you leave early, you can still squeeze in a full day of hiking, paddling, or moose spotting before heading back. Oxtongue Lake is a great starting point for beginners, and if you want to dip your toes into backcountry life without committing to a full camping trip, Algonquin Outfitters offers excellent one-day guided tours .
This park is massive, over 7,600 square kilometers of wilderness, and it’s one of the best places in the world to see moose in the wild. We’ve spotted them at the side of the road more than once, just hanging out like it’s no big deal.
You won’t see everything in a day, but one taste of Algonquin and you’ll be planning your next overnight before you’ve even left the parking lot. No car? Book this Toronto to Algonquin Provincial Park private Tour.
22. Bruce Peninsula National Park
We’re pushing the limits of a day trip here, but if you’re up for a long 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 some of the clearest water in Ontario and some of the best hiking in the province. The Grotto in Tobermory is the star of the show, a cave filled with turquoise water that looks like it belongs in Greece.
We’ve spent days here rock climbing 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 usually recommend this one as an overnight, but if 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 leave the city for a day trip. Hop on a ferry to the Toronto Islands and explore Ward’s Island, picnic near the Gibraltar Point Lighthouse, or just enjoy skyline views of downtown Toronto. It’s open year-round, and during the summer months, it becomes a top destination for both locals and tourists alike. The Toronto Islands are the best place to take in views of the Toronto Skyline. That classic city skyline of Toronto is taken from here.
24. Bonus: The Toronto Zoo
Located in the eastern end of the city, the Toronto Zoo is a top attraction for animal lovers. We don’t normally recommend zoos, but the Toronto Zoo is one of the best in the world. Home to over 5,000 exotic animals and a great option for families visiting Toronto, you can easily spend a full day exploring the various regions. It’s also near Rouge Park if you’re looking to add a hike to your outing.
Final Tips
Whether you’re planning your first visit or just looking to explore more of your own backyard, these day trips from Toronto offer something for everyone. From scenic hikes to art galleries, and from petting zoos to wine tastings, there’s a world waiting just outside the city.
Before heading out, check out St. Lawrence Market for snacks and picnic gear. And don’t forget to check ferry and park schedules, many places are open year-round, but some attractions are seasonal.
Ready to go? Pack the car, grab your camera, and let Ontario surprise you.
FAQ – Day Trips from Toronto
Some of the top day trips from Toronto under 2 hours include Niagara Falls, Elora, Stratford, Paris, Wasaga Beach, Caledon, Hamilton, and St. Jacobs. These destinations offer a mix of nature, food, culture, and fun.
Yes, absolutely. Niagara Falls is just 90 minutes from Toronto by car and can also be reached by bus or train. You can easily visit top attractions 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 choices for nature escapes under 90 minutes from Toronto. For a bigger adventure, head to Algonquin Park or the Bruce Peninsula.
Yes, you can reach destinations like Niagara Falls, Hamilton, and St. Jacobs by GO Transit, VIA Rail, or coach tours. However, most of the scenic parks and conservation areas are best accessed by car.
The Bruce Peninsula is the farthest recommended day trip, about 3.5 to 4 hours away. It’s a long drive but doable if you start early and plan to stay out late.
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