trip ideas ontario

Great Ideas for Weekend Getaways in Ontario (+ Mini Itineraries)

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There Are Plenty of Great Ideas for Weekend Getaways in Ontario!

If you’re looking for a weekend getaway in Ontario, you’re certainly in luck! Ontario is loaded with amazing places to visit , attractions to explore, and things to try so there is no shortage of weekend trip ideas.

No matter where you are travelling from – Ottawa, Toronto, etc – and whatever your style – romantic, fun, relaxing, adventure – there is a getaway for you.

We really like exploring Ontario on mini-vacations or weekend road trips since there are essentially endless options. While we usually travel as a couple, lots of the getaway ideas mentioned below can also work for families with kids or even groups of friends.

We’ve done our fair share of last-minute weekend getaways and still managed to find great ideas with nice accommodations for a good price!

So, whether you are looking for romantic getaways near Toronto or staycation getaway ideas that take you on an adventure, here are our detailed mini-weekend itineraries for you to enjoy.

From hiking and beaches to wineries or spas, here’s our detailed guide on some of the best weekend getaways in Ontario – in summer or winter!

Table of Contents

Relax at an Ontario Resort, Inn, or Spa

If you’ve been working hard and just want to get away and indulge in total relaxation, there are plenty of resort or inn-style accommodations in Ontario to do that!

Ontario has a nice mix of inns with spas as well as quiet lodge resorts that can take you away from the city and exchange it for nature. This goes for the summer or the winter season!

Below are a number of resorts and inns that you can have a look at. Many of these also make for a great girls’ weekend getaway in Ontario. You can find these accommodations all around the province from Niagara-on-the-Lake to Collingwood, the Ottawa Valley, Muskoka, and more.

We even have a whole guide dedicated to where to stay in Muskoka (with great resorts) if that is where you are looking to go. If you want great inns all around Ontario, we have also a round-up on the best inns in Ontario .

Blue Mountain Resort

As the largest ski resort in Ontario, Blue Mountain certainly has a reputation to be a fantastic weekend getaway in any season. If you’re looking to relax, they offer spa packages and bundles that are sure to make you forget the stressful work week.

If you want to head up to Collingwood for the weekend, you can stay right in the main village at Blue – and don’t forget about booking a time at the famous Scandinave Spa .

Pillar and Post Inn & Spa

For a great getaway inn/hotel located in a top wine region, head for the Pillar and Post Inn and Spa .

Located just a short walk from the heart of downtown Niagara-on-the-Lake, Eric has stayed here before and loved it. They have pools, onsite dining, and spa facilities.

Heather Lodge Inn

For a more remote and tranquil escape, head for Heather Lodge Inn . Located in Minden, this more lodge-style getaway is adults-only and offers onsite dining as well as boat rentals and canoeing.

The Haliburton Highlands are a great place for a getaway to reconnect with nature and enjoy peace and quiet.

JW Marriott at Lake Rosseau

Last but not least, you can have a classic Muskoka resort experience at The JW Marriott at Lake Rosseau . Perched on a granite bluff, the Marriott is a secluded resort tucked away in Ontario’s wilderness overlooking Lake Rosseau.

They offer spa packages for couples that include the usage of their “couples-designated” spa areas – making the JW a good stop for a spa weekend getaway in Ontario. Also good to note: This kind of weekend trip can be done in summer or in the winter!

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Discover one of Ontario’s Wine Regions

Did you know that Ontario is one of Canada’s top wine-producing areas? You’d be surprised how many didn’t! When it comes to producing great wine, we can thank the geography of the province.

The lakes, the soil, the geographical feature that is the Niagara Escarpment – there are so many factors that allow Ontario to make wine. And that means that you get to enjoy it!

We really like wine (and beer, for that matter) so it’s fun for us to go to wineries, learn about them, and enjoy a few tastings. Winery hopping can also be a part of a romantic weekend getaway in Ontario or a classic girls’ weekend getaway.

So if you are looking to indulge in the province through its wine and the locals who make it, here are a number of suggestions for top wine regions in Ontario. These also make for great fall getaway ideas since you get to enjoy the autumn colours and the harvest season!

Niagara on the Lake

Yes, Niagara on the Lake is first. This fertile area is a mecca for wine-making – and the greater Niagara Peninsula has even more wineries to visit. You can drive around to the dozens of Niagara on the Lake wineries or you can hop on a guided winery tour (recommended). There are many to visit but we like Ravine if you are looking for a suggestion. To make the most of the weekend, you should stay in Niagara-on-the-Lake (the historic town). That way, you can enjoy the town as well as the wineries around.

We like the Pillar and Post Inn and Spa but we also have a guide on Niagara on the Lake accommodations if you want to learn more!

Prince Edward County

Another great wine region is Prince Edward County. There are a number of wineries to visit like Sandbanks Estate or Trail Estate . There are dozens so check out our article on wineries in Prince Edward County . You can join a guided tour to the wineries but you can also drive or bike to them yourself. If you head for The County, there are lots of other things to do while on a weekend trip. You can stay in the town of Picton for easy accessibility to restaurants and shops. Stay at the Merrill House for a great location in Picton or the Newsroom Suites for a nice stay in the town of Wellington. We have a guide on where to stay in Prince Edward County if you are interested. Those interested in beer should read our PEC breweries and cideries guide !

Grey County

When people think about Ontario wine, many don’t know that the area just south of Georgian Bay – Grey County – is home to a number of wineries (as well as breweries and cideries). The vast amount of shoreline is also a nice draw to this region and makes for a lovely weekend getaway for couples in Ontario. With top stops like Coffin Ridge Vineyard & Winery and Mudtown Station Brewery and Restaurant in the heart of Owen Sound, it’s a great area to wander about.

The Inn at Cobble Beach makes for a wonderful getaway by the water.

Have an Outdoor Action Adventure

Considering Ontario is huge and full of different terrain – dense forests, tall cliffs, and raging rivers – there are lots of great locations in Ontario to get away and enjoy being a kid again in the outdoors.

Specifically, there are a number of adventure-based activities you can try out all over the province.

The nice thing about adventure getaways in Ontario is that there is a good offering of things to do in all seasons – so don’t think for a second you’re out of luck when it comes to weekend winter getaways in Ontario!

From treetop trekking in the summer to snow tubing and snowshoeing in the winter , check out these active weekend ideas.

Hardwood Hills Ski & Bike

If you’re keen on some physical activity, we suggest heading to Hardwood Hills . Just north of Toronto about two hours driving, this ski and bike facility offers over 80 kilometres of rolling trails through pine forests for mountain biking and cross-country skiing. They also offer disc golf, volleyball, hiking, and running. You can stay nearby in Oro-Medonte at Carriage Hills Resort which comes with its own amenities.

Horseshoe Valley

It may not be the largest ski hill in Ontario, but Horseshoe Valley Resort is a personal favourite. The grounds offer adventurers so many activities from treetop trekking and golf in the summer to skiing/snowboarding and having the longest snow tubing hill in Ontario in the winter. The nice thing about a weekend at Horseshoe is that you can book your stay close to where you get to play!

Rafting the Ottawa River

For an river rafting adventure, head north of Ottawa to either Wilderness Tours or Owl Rafting ! Eric went rafting with both of these companies before and both companies made for a super fun weekend getaway in Ontario. Both companies have a waterfront resorts with meals, bar, and accommodations (from camping to cabins and even select cottages) so you can stay overnight and make a whole weekend out of it after you enjoy the action-packed rafting tour.

Treetop Trekking in Huntsville

Back to the idea of adventure in the trees, Treetop Trekking (mentioned in Horseshoe Valley) also has a course up in Huntsville, too. The Huntsville location is just off of Highway 60 so it’s easy to get to. The area is beautiful if you are looking for a good dose of nature over the course of a weekend. There are other great things to do in Huntsville if you end up spending a weekend there. We’d recommend a stay at Morgan House B&B  which is not too far from the trekking.

Scuba the Ontario Wrecks

If you want to try something a little different, Ontario is actually a great place to go SCUBA diving. This is because some lakes contain a unique underwater environment – including a high concentration of shipwrecks. Tobermory is apparently the “SCUBA capital of Canada” with Fathom Five National Marine Park having over 20 protected wrecks to explore. If you are new to SCUBA, you can always try a SCUBA training course ! If you stay up in Tobermory, check out the Grandview Motel for a popular and cozy accommodation with Georgian Bay views just a short walk from “downtown” Tobermory.

Explore Ontario for Beautiful Waterfalls

Oddly enough, Ontario’s unique geography also makes it a home to many gorgeous waterfalls. A big reason for this is the Niagara Escarpment – that large rocky ledge that runs from Georgian Bay all the way to the Niagara Region.

Of course, you can go and see the most famous of them all – Niagara Falls – but there are lots more to explore that are tucked away in nature.

Exploring waterfalls can make for a good cheap weekend getaway in Ontario because the costs are usually just things like the parking fee and/or the entrance fee for the conservation area (on top of some food and a place to stay).

That said, we’ll highlight two main areas for waterfalls in Ontario but know that there are a few others scattered all over the province. For example, you can go up to near Thunder Bay to experience Kakabeka Falls which is quite a wonder!

Hamilton Region

It’s been said that Hamilton – and the area surrounding it – is the Waterfall Capital of the World. This area has over 200 waterfalls to explore with some being more popular and accessible than others. We wrote up a whole post on our experience checking out Hamilton waterfalls but for those wondering, Tiffany Falls is quite popular, as is Albion Falls. We also liked Felker’s Falls!

Another great area that has a number of waterfalls and conservation areas is Grey County. There are a number of popular ones to head for like Eugenia Falls and Hogg’s Falls . While all of the waterfalls are accessible to hike to in the summer, most of them are also accessible in the winter. To stay nearby, check out the Traverston Retreat B&B !

Dive into Ontario’s Rich History

If you are looking to spend the weekend exploring something you didn’t know about, why not dive into Ontario’s past? From Indigenous peoples and European settlers to war with the Americans and modern-day advances in medicine – Ontario has quite the backstory. Around the province, there are a number of museums and attractions where you get the chance to dive into history. We don’t think history is boring and many of these ideas can be used to fill just one piece of a weekend itinerary whether you’re a couple or a family with kids!

Not to talk about Niagara on the Lake again but the area is popular for Ontario history given the proximity to the US border and waterways.

This region has numerous attractions like Fort George Historic Site and other places like the Laura Secord Homestead , the Mackenzie Printery Museum , and the Queenston Heights Park , among others. We mention most of these museums and historic things to discover in our guide on things to do in Niagara on the Lake !

Sainte-Marie among the Hurons

If you want to step back into the 17th century, head for Sainte-Marie among the Hurons . Located in Midland, this re-created settlement and museum represents the spot of the oldest European community in Ontario. To stay nearby in Midland, you might like 1875 A Charters Inn Bed & Breakfast which is a historic home located right in the heart of the town centre.

Diefenbunker Museum

Did you know that Ontario has a secret underground Cold war-era bunker that was for the Prime Minister and is now a museum you can tour?

If you didn’t, visit the Diefenbunker Museum outside of Ottawa in the small town of Carp. We went and it was honestly awesome! You can read more about our experience when visiting the Diefenbunker . If you want to stay nearby, aim for the Brookstreet Hotel which is in Kanata between the bunker and downtown Ottawa (can make a weekend out of a visit to this area)!

1000 Islands History Museum

If the history of the waterways calls to you, head for Gananoque to explore the 1000 Islands History Museum . It’s located right at the waterfront and you can also use this weekend trip to hop on a beautiful 1000 Islands Boat Cruise !

We cruised the 1000 Islands from Kingston but have heard the cruises from Gananoque offer more island time. To stay just a short walk from downtown Gananoque/the waterfront to catch a cruise, we suggest the Sleepy Hollow B&B in an old historic house!

Check out Top Ontario Attractions

Then there are the Ontario weekend getaways that are centred around going to see or do something specific. We call these top Ontario attractions – and Ontario has a number of things to visit that are worth building a weekend around!

For this guide, we tried to stick to things that are unique experiences to Ontario so you won’t find any chain companies or brands below!

Niagara Falls

We couldn’t leave a weekend getaway in Niagara Falls, Ontario out of this post. This city – with three magnificent waterfalls to check out – is loaded with things to do and see besides the falls themselves.

From the famous Hornblower Cruise to the White Water Walk and attractions on Clifton Hill, there’s something for everyone here. We have written extensively on the subject including a post on top things to do in Niagara Falls and a guide on where to stay .

We stayed at  A Moment in Time B&B and good hotels with views of the falls are  Marriott Fallsview  or  The Oakes Hotel Fallsview .

Bonnechere Caves

To explore another natural wonder that Ontario has been hiding, plan a visit to the Bonnechere Caves . This incredible cave system is a unique way to learn about nature while also going on a bit of an adventure! They are located close to Eganville (not far from Highway 60). To stay nearby, you can check out the Bide-A-While Bed & Breakfast which is in Renfrew (a short drive from the Caves).

Dynamic Earth & Big Nickel

Lastly, if you are keen to learn more about what goes on underground in Ontario, head up to Sudbury to Dynamic Earth and to see the Big Nickel! Part of the Science North group, these science museums are world-renowned. Plus, nearby you get to visit the largest coin in the world so that’s pretty cool. Don’t count out Sudbury for a great weekend getaway. There are other outdoor-based attractions to draw you up there. We’d suggest a stay at the Northbury Hotel close to the city centre.

Catch Some Sun at an Ontario Beach

It’s no secret that with enough lakes, rivers, and other bodies of water dotting the Ontario landscape, there are bound to be some great beaches in Ontario. Millions of years of erosion for you mean many places to lay on the comfortable sand and let the summer sun do its thing!

Of course, there are very popular beaches in Ontario like Wasaga Beach and Sauble Beach – but there are lots of other great beaches to head for as well. So, if you’re looking for a relaxing weekend getaway in Ontario in summer, a beachside retreat might be for you.

We’ve listed just a handful of other beaches you might want to make a point of heading to on a weekend.

They are generally located in nice little towns with restaurants and a laid-back atmosphere. Beaches also make for a sure-fire idea for weekend family getaways in Ontario because the beach has something for everyone!

Grand Bend Beach

Located close to Pinery Provincial Park , Grand Bend Beach is a very popular stop for weekend getaways in southwestern Ontario. There are lots to do in the area activity-wise in both the summer and the winter season. You can stay close by to the beach at a resort or campground like the Oakwood Resort .

Long Point is actually also a Provincial Park – but the sandy beaches are well-known to those familiar with Lake Erie. As the fourth oldest park in Ontario, there’s 1.5 km of sand-covered beach. Lake Erie is also typically warmer than Lake Ontario. To stay close by, you can book the Normandale Century Inn in Normandale which is a quick drive from the beach at Long Point. There are also other beaches all over that area of Lake Erie!

Sandbanks Provincial Park

Looping back to cover Prince Edward County, a trip to Sandbanks Provincial Park is a great way to hit the beach. There are actually three different beaches here – we cover them in our mega guide to exploring Sandbanks . With the option to camp overnight or make use of the day-use dune areas and stay nearby, there are options for most weekend trippers. We’ve covered where to stay in Prince Edward County before in this post but to stay close to the actual beaches check out Our Space the Perfect Place B&B  which is not far.

There are other beaches in this region like Wellington Beach or North Beach if you want to skip Sandbanks!

Hike/Camp at a National/Provincial Park

Speaking of Provincial Parks – you can absolutely make a weekend getaway out of exploring the great outdoors.

Luckily, you’ve got 340 regulated Provincial Parks to choose from – and that doesn’t include National Parks or conservation areas! While this may seem like a difficult task, there are definitely some that are more popular than others.

Everyone is likely familiar with Algonquin Provincial Park , Forks of the Credit , Arrowhead , or even Killarney , but there are so many other parks in Ontario to explore. Many of these green areas make for dog-friendly weekend getaways because they have “bark parks” attached.

If you stay for a weekend (and depending on which one you choose) you might decide to camp overnight (if you can). Alternatively, you can also just do day hikes but stay close by outside the park. You can even visit more than one in a weekend. It’s really up to you!

Petroglyphs Provincial Park

For a unique park experience in Ontario, head for Petroglyphs Provincial Park . Located just to the northeast of Peterborough, the park is special since you’ll find a large collection of Indigenous rock carvings as well as get the chance to enjoy nature and learn about the traditions of the Ojibway people.

This is a place for learning and connecting and we are so looking forward to visiting. To make a weekend out of it, you could stay at the Burleigh Falls Inn which is in our post on best Ontario inns!

Bruce Peninsula National Park

Often referred to as “heading to Tobermory”, Bruce Peninsula National Park is a popular but unique stop in Ontario. The Bruce Peninsula is a gorgeous area on Georgian Bay with a variety of unique aspects like the Grotto – a famous geological attraction. You can camp in the park but you can also stay close by in the heart of Tobermory if you just want to day hike. The Grandview Motel is a great option for that.

Kawartha Highlands Provincial Park

Lastly, Kawartha Highlands Provincial Park is another great park in Ontario located up near Bancroft. We tried to feature more of “The Kawarthas” since the Muskokas always get the credit when it comes to amazing outdoor areas in Ontario. The park is fantastic to visit for camping, hiking, canoeing, and much more. It is actually the second largest park in Southern Ontario next to Algonquin. It’s actually pretty close to Petroglyphs Park (mentioned above) so a stay at the Burleigh Falls Inn would make sense if you didn’t want to camp overnight.

Explore a Small Ontario Town

You don’t have to head to a city to have an amazing weekend. In fact, those of you in the city are likely looking to leave it for the weekend.

So, exploring a small Ontario town might be perfect for you. In fact, we’d argue that the right small town can offer you more to do on a long weekend getaway in Ontario than just heading for an Ontario beach!

Ontario is loaded with small towns that actually have lots of offer visitors like local history and hikes, artisan shops, restaurants, and breweries. Local accommodations that make for a nice overnight getaway can be the piece that brings it all together to create a nice weekend getaway.

Having both of us come from small towns, we definitely have an affinity for discovering smaller places. Below are a number of great small towns to check out – some have rivers running through while others have hiking trails or lakes to enjoy!

Last, but certainly not least, we have the small town of Elora. Located close to Guelph, Elora is known for the Grand River running through it. It’s the home of the luxurious Elora Mill Hotel and the town is a great stop for a quiet weekend full of relaxing, getting out on the river, or hiking/tubing in Elora Gorge Conservation Area . We’ve written a whole detailed guide on what to do in Elora if you want to read about our experience. Aside from the Elora Mill Hotel and Spa , another place to stay close to the town centre would be Etherington Suites – very close to the Grand River!

If you are searching for a cute little town with historic stone buildings, a number of places to eat, a museum or two, local shops, and some green space by the water, you might want to have a look at Perth. This little town is located a short drive north of Kingston and makes for a nice quiet Ontario getaway – especially in spring with the flowers blooming.

If you want to stay right in the heart of Perth, we’d suggest the Perth Manor Boutique Hotel !

Gravenhurst

For those wanting to hit up a smaller town but up in the Muskokas, Gravenhurst would be our go-to suggestion. Featuring a great little town centre with a nice brewery and the famous Muskoka steamships cruise down at the Muskoka Wharf, there’s lots to see and do in Gravenhurst . For a nice place to stay, that is close to downtown but also close to the lake, you can check out  The Inn on Bay .

Get Lost in an Ontario City

It goes without saying that Ontario is huge and there are a number of cities that can definitely make for a nice weekend getaway.

Depending on your interests (and your starting location), some cities might appeal to you over others. Cities also make for a great solo weekend in Ontario because you can kind of blend in among city life and enjoy it at your own pace!

There are a number of cities we really like visiting around Ontario – and all for basically different reasons.

We left Toronto out since (you have to admit) many people are usually looking to leave Toronto for the weekend, not enter it! Below are some of our favourite cities to visit, things to do in each, and accommodations to check out.

For a historic city right on Lake Ontario, Kingston makes for an excellent weekend trip since it’s a doable drive from both Ottawa and Toronto. Kingston is fantastic in the summer: You can get ice cream and walk the downtown core to check out the small shops. There are historic trolley tours and even an island boat cruise you can do. In the winter, it’s a bit chilly but still great. You can go ice skating at Springer Market Square. There are also so many bars, breweries, and restaurants in Kingston to satisfy any cuisine in any season. We’d suggest the Hochelaga Inn for a historic bed and breakfast walkable to downtown and The Delta for a downtown hotel on the Kingston waterfront. Having lived in Kingston for a combined decade, that’s why we know and love it. You can read up on things to do , best restaurants , best bars and pubs , coffee shops , and even where to stay in Kingston .

If you feel like you aren’t in touch with Canada’s roots, a trip to Ottawa can fix that! In the summer, you can do a river cruise of the Ottawa River , explore Parliament, or visit one of the many museums like the Canadian War Museum or National Gallery of Canada . Pints in ByWard Market are also a great way to enjoy the weather! In the winter, the city gets cold but there’s always Winterlude and skating on the famous Rideau Canal to enjoy! Whichever season you visit, we’d recommend the Andaz ByWard Market for a central hotel with a stunning rooftop bar. We love exploring Ottawa and have a number of posts to get you started: things to do in Ottawa , one day in Ottawa , best Ottawa bars and pubs , and where to stay in Ottawa !

Last but not least – a trip to Guelph, Ontario is actually a great option! Located not too far from Toronto, Guelph can make for a nice weekend getaway in southern Ontario. The city has a lot of natural beauty with green spaces and the rivers that run through. The area is good for hiking and being outside, in general. There is a nice downtown with bars and pubs , shops, and great restaurants. Of course, there are other things to do in Guelph like renting a boat at The Boathouse and getting ice cream or high tea! If you head for Guelph, the  Norfolk Guest House Inn  makes for a lovely stay a short walk to downtown.

Indulge On A “Food or Drink Trail”

If you want your weekend getaway to revolve around enjoying Ontario’s vibrant gastronomy scene, then you can definitely make that happen! Ontario prides itself on its local growers, bakers, brewers, and restaurant owners who have created more than one “foodie” hot spot across the province.

While a stop at St. Lawrence Market in Toronto is definitely a noteworthy adventure, there are a number of Ontario weekend trip food routes that are basically just asking you to join. From sweet treats to delicious craft beer, here are a bunch of Ontario food tours/trails that you can follow!

The Butter Tart Tour

Are you a fan of butter tarts? The Canadian classic dessert can be enjoyed in the Kawarthas Northumberland (around Peterborough) at over 50 different locations! You can eat your way across the region sampling butter tarts – find the full details for the Butter Tart Tour here . You can also complete a version by boat! If you do make the tour over the course of a weekend, you will need a place to sleep off those butter tarts. Stay in Bobcaygeon to be in the heart of the butter tart tasting region and check out Riverside Caygeon B&B for a great bed and breakfast!

Oxford County Cheese Trail

Is cheese your thing? Then the Oxford County Cheese Trail is for you! Consisting of 24 stops ranging from cheese shops, restaurants, and other vendors around Woodstock (close to London), the cheese trail is definitely something you’ll want to spend a weekend doing! You can learn all about The Cheese Trail here ! As you will be filled with cheese, stay in Woodstock for a central location to drive to other places on the trail. The Château la Motte Guest House is a super cool-looking historic bed and breakfast that might do the trick.

Brewery Tour

Since Ontario is a hot spot for craft breweries, there are many different ones situated in regions that you can explore. Prince Edward County breweries are great or you could even make a tour out of breweries around the Muskoka region (like Muskoka Brewery in Bracebridge!). Please enjoy responsibly if you do this. Once again, the heart of the region is arguably Gravenhurst so perhaps stay at The Inn on Bay to make your brewery crawl easier to accomplish! This would also work well for a one-night getaway in Ontario.

And there you have it – a pretty detailed list of ideas for weekend getaways in Ontario! Of course, there are so many more weekend ideas to add here.

Also, not all of these will work for you because we have no idea where you are starting from. That said, we hope this is a helpful guide to most. You know we’ll be adding to it as we explore more of Ontario!

As always, Keep Exploring, eh? – E&L

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Eric Wychopen

Hi, we're Eric and Lisa - an Ontario-born Canadian and a German! After settling in Ontario together, we realized that there is lots more to explore in this beautiful Canadian province! On Ontario Away, we as well as local contributors cover everything from cities and hikes to wineries, attractions, accommodations, and more.

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Must Do Canada

The Best Things to Do in Canada

8 of the Best Ontario Road Trips

March 30, 2021 By Matthew G. Bailey 59 Comments

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With over a million square kilometres of terrain to explore, there’s no shortage of things to do in Ontario . Canada’s second-largest province is home to everything from lakes and rivers, to cities and culture. One of the best ways to see all that Ontario has to offer is to take one of the many incredible Ontario road trips, whether that’s exploring major cities like Toronto and Ottawa, or getting out into the wilderness and exploring one of the millions of lakes around the province.

So without further ado, here are the 8 best Ontario road trips for you to take this summer.

Table of Contents

Niagara Falls to Niagara-on-the-Lake

British Prime Minister, Sir Winston Churchill visited Niagara Falls in 1943 and is quoted as saying that the Niagara Parkway is the “prettiest Sunday afternoon drive in the world.” Now that tells you something!

Niagara Falls is certainly no secret. In fact, it’s one of the top attractions in all of Canada. However, considering its beauty, and the fact that it’s only 30-minutes from Toronto, we couldn’t leave it out as an incredible road trip. To make the most of this Ontario road trip, extend your trip to spend a day (or two or three) in the Niagara-on-the-Lake region as well, taking the Niagara Parkway, which follows the Niagara River through beautiful wineries, parks, historical sites, and more. There’s plenty of places to try delicious food, snacks, and of course, wine! Plus, each season presents new scenery, such as blossoming flowers in the spring, hot weather in the summer, and winter festivals during the colder months. You can even extend your trip down to Fort Erie, which is south of Niagara Falls.

The Niagara Parkway is a short scenic drive running parallel to the Niagara River from Fort Erie at the bottom to Niagara-on-the-Lake at the top. It’s only 55 kilometres (34 miles) in length and takes just over an hour without any stops. Of course, doing the trip without stops would defeat the purpose, as you’d miss all the villages and attractions along the way, such as Old Fort Erie, Queen Victoria Park, Niagara Falls, the Butterfly Conservatory, a variety of wineries, and much more.

This short road trip can easily be made into a full day or a full week depending on what you want to do. For example, you could spend a day learning about the history of the area at Fort Erie, spend a few days in Niagara Falls to enjoy the beautiful views and the variety of attractions, and then spend a couple of days peddle-biking around wineries or catching one of the many performances during the Shaw Festival. After all, biking is so much better after a few glasses of wine.

Popular things to do include:

• Wandering through the Historic District
• Taking a food tour in Niagara-on-the-Lake
• Touring the many wineries
• Watching a performance at the Shaw Festival
• Taking a Hornblower Cruise at Niagara Falls
• Flying over Niagara Falls in a helicopter

Staying in Niagara Falls but wanting to explore the wineries without the worry of driving? The Niagara-on-the-Lake Shuttle offered from May 5th until October 29th is only $7.00 one-way for an adult ($5.00 for a child) and runs every 60 minutes from 10:30 am until 5:30 pm, departing from the Floral Clock.

Ottawa to Toronto via Algonquin Park

When it comes to visiting Canada’s capital city and Canada’s largest city, there’s no shortage of things to do in Toronto and Ottawa . However, far too many people take the major highway that connects both cities instead of opting for the much-more scenic route through Algonquin Park. Known as the Highway 60 Corridor , this road trip cuts through the south end of the park from the east gate to the west gate, taking you through lush forest, while providing many opportunities to explore hiking trails, beautiful lakes, lookout points, campgrounds, and even an art centre.

Think of it like a massive oasis right in-between two of Canada’s most famous cities. Enjoy the hustle and bustle of Ottawa, take a few days to get back to nature in Algonquin Park, and then get right back into the action in Toronto. If you still have time, continue down to Niagara Falls and the stunning wine region for even more relaxation and sightseeing.

Algonquin Provincial Park, established in 1893, is the oldest provincial park in Canada and a national historic site. It’s about 7,653 square kilometres (almost 3,000 square miles) and is a great place to spend a few days outdoors. It contains more than 2,400 lakes and more than 1,200 kilometres of streams and rivers. Due to its location, it can be busy but is still a great opportunity to go hiking, canoeing, camping, wildlife viewing, or to simply see where the northern coniferous forest and southern deciduous forest meet.

Hamilton Waterfalls

Don’t Go Chasing Waterfalls may have been a hit song but we don’t advise listening to the lyrics when in Hamilton. This is, after all, Ontario’s waterfall capital , and we highly recommend you do go chasing them. Hamilton is only an hour’s drive from Toronto, making it one of the best day trips from Toronto, but also an excellent road trip as well. Rather than a long-distance type of drive, this one is more focused on seeing as many of the 100 waterfalls as you can.

All around the region, there are hiking trails and parks that allow you to see the thundering beauty of many different waterfalls, including the very popular Devils Punchbowl Falls, which is a 37-metre ribbon waterfall. Many of the waterfalls are located around the Bruce Trail Conservancy, but what makes this area unique is that you can easily combine some easy hikes through nature with urban charm as well, such as shopping for antiques on Locke Street, sightseeing at Dundas Peak, or learning about the city’s history at Dundurn Castle or the Steam and Technology Museum. Hamilton is also known for its thriving arts scene and the Supercrawl Festival, which is a great time to taste local food and craft beer.

Thousand Islands National Park

Perhaps one of the most beautiful and unique places in Ontario is Thousand Islands, which is just a short road trip from Ottawa or Toronto. Someone miscounted because there’s actually more than 1,800 islands residing around the St. Lawrence River, but either way, this is a gorgeous place to go for a road trip and then a water trip as well. Not only is it a stunning place to take a boat tour or to go kayaking and canoeing, but it’s also a great place to check out extraordinary lighthouses, historic castles, and learn about the unique history, which includes pirates and smuggling.

This national park straddles the American border and offers a range of things to do on land and on the water. If you had one of those cars that can also float in the water, this would be the trip to take!

Prince Edward County

If you love wine but are looking for something different than Niagara-on-the-Lake, consider visiting charming Prince Edward County in-between Toronto and Ottawa. A favourite amongst wine and cheese lovers, this vacation destination is the home to many passionate winemakers, giving you the chance to drink the province’s best Pinot Noir before walking the white sand beach of Sandbanks Provincial Park. But there’s more than Pinot Noir as well. The region is home to more than three dozen wineries, as well as two local cheese producers. In fact, if you really want to indulge, make your way here in June when the Great Canadian Cheese Festival comes to town. This can easily be a day trip from Toronto or Ottawa, but it’s much better to book a stay at a cottage or a local bed-and-breakfast and just relax.

Oxford County Cheese Trail

Want even more cheese? Then this road trip is for you. In Oxford County, near London, Ontario, you can follow a specific route to explore all 98 cheese factories in the area. Okay, maybe not all of them. That’s a lot of cheese! However, along the Oxford County Cheese Trail , you’ll find eight different companies showcasing their products and teaching you about the agricultural industry of the county. The nice thing about doing your own road trip tour is that you can make it as short or as long as you wish. Go for a few hours or stay for a few days. It’s not like it’s just cheese either. You’ll also find artisans, entertainment, and nature as well.

The entire trail consists of 24 stops featuring cheese, dairy, and other offerings that make for a unique road trip that’s not too far from both Toronto and Niagara Falls. It’s even close to some U.S. cities such as Detroit and Buffalo.

Downtown Toronto to Newmarket

While this 83-kilometre stretch of road may not be your typical road trip, it’s kind of a cool thing to do in Ontario. After all, it’s proclaimed to be the longest road in the world and is in the Guinness Book of World Records. It’s mostly situated on Yonge Street, taking you from the bustling downtown core of Toronto all the way north to Newmarket. You can visit the suburbs of Richmond Hill and North York, enjoy a glass of wine at Holland Marsh Winery, stroll the Newmarket Riverwalk Commons, or learn some history at the Elman W. Campbell Museum. In fact, the road itself is quite historical as it was part of the infrastructure that established Upper Canada in the 1790s and provided access to the Great Lakes in case of invasion from the U.S. after independence. If you want to continue North, you can visit places such as Lake Simcoe and Georgian Bay.

Lake Superior Circle Tour

Last but certainly not least, the Lake Superior Circle Tour is by-far the most adventurous Ontario road trip of them all. In fact, it’s on our bucket list of road trips in Canada. We’ve technically done half of the route but only did it to get from point A to point B, missing out on all the beautiful sights in-between. There are essentially two Lake Superior road trips you can do. The full Lake Superior Circle Tour takes you through the Canadian side on the northern half and the American side on the South. You will cross the border twice and should aim to spend a couple of weeks to fully enjoy it. The shorter version is the Lake Superior Half Circle Tour, which sticks only to the Canadian side, comprised of the area in-between Sault Ste Marie and Thunder Bay. This stretch of the road trip is over 700 kilometres in length and can take anywhere from a really rushed-day to a multiple-week adventure. Please keep in mind that if you only do the Canadian version of the road trip, it’s one-way, which means you’ll have to come back the same way or continue on to other provinces such as Manitoba.

Popular places to visit include Thunder Bay, Ruby Lake Provincial Park, the Terry Fox Memorial, Rossport, Terrace Bay, Pukaskwa National Park, White River, Wawa, Lake Superior Provincial Park, and Sault Ste. Marie.

Road Trips in Ontario

While Ontario may not have those classic road trips like the Icefields Parkway or the Viking Trail , it does have a ton of interesting, fun, and beautiful destination that can easily be turned into a fabulous road trip. Whether you’re looking for a day trip from one of the major cities or looking to truly get into some adventure along the shores of Lake Superior, there’s no shortage of cool Ontario road trips for people of all types. We hope this article inspires your next trip and if there’s a road trip we missed, please let us know in the comments!

For more adventures in Ontario and beyond, check out these articles below:

• Things to Do in Winnipeg
• Things to Do in Quebec
• Things to Do in Montreal
• 13 Amazing Canada Road Trips
• The Ultimate 150-Day Road Trip Across Canada

About Matthew G. Bailey

Matthew G. Bailey is the founder and editor-in-chief of Must Do Canada. Growing up in Alberta to a mother from Quebec and a father from Newfoundland, Matt spent his childhood playing hockey under the Northern Lights and hanging out in the forest before moving to Calgary and travelling to more than 250 cities spanning 42 countries and 6 continents. He loves travel, learning new things, playing sports, writing, making videos, photography, and scuba diving. You can also find him at LiveLimitless.net .

Reader Interactions

April 1, 2021 at 10:03 am

Ahh! I can’t wait to move back to Ontario, and get exploring

April 1, 2021 at 3:03 pm

Love Algonquin any time of the year – especially the fall!

May 22, 2022 at 8:47 am

We are planning a fall trip to Ontario and we are taking advantage of the blogs and videos from you guys. I think we will do 2 days in Toronto, 1 to Niagara falls and then 9 days in Muskoka.

May 22, 2022 at 10:09 am

Nice! We’ve never been to Muskoka. Why 9 days? Just lots of relax time?

April 1, 2021 at 5:01 pm

These sound great!

April 2, 2021 at 5:30 am

Hopefully some of these can be done this year if parks are open.

May 13, 2021 at 7:38 am

Awesome! Love this

April 2, 2021 at 6:56 am

Can’t wait to explore!

April 21, 2021 at 1:14 pm

Same! I need to see more things in my home province

April 2, 2021 at 9:01 am

April 2, 2021 at 6:22 pm

April 2, 2021 at 8:54 pm

We are lucky to have so many places to see close to home!

April 3, 2021 at 6:53 am

I took friends from Germany to see Niagara Falls and Niagara on the Lake on a road trip.They were impressed and enjoyed the excursion.

April 3, 2021 at 11:09 am

Sweet. Here’s a fun fact. Germans love Saskatchewan. It’s one of their top tourism markets

April 3, 2021 at 8:13 am

I’ve always wanted to visit Algonquin!! H0ping to soon!

April 3, 2021 at 9:22 am

Looking forward to finding new things to explore in Ontario!

April 3, 2021 at 10:30 am

Amazing article! @iceyviolet

April 5, 2021 at 9:02 pm

Nice article, time to get some more Manitoba content

April 5, 2021 at 9:48 pm

haha yes, for sure. We really wanna do some road trips there. What are some good ones?

April 3, 2021 at 12:58 pm

Great ideas! I live in Southern Ontario and have always wanted to go to both Algonquin Park and Ottawa. Might have to give this trip some thought.

April 3, 2021 at 8:48 pm

April 3, 2021 at 9:57 pm

This is such a great tool for people who are excited to explore the nooks and crannies of Ontario! Love being in nature!!

April 4, 2021 at 2:59 am

Canada has so much beauty. I love to see everything.

April 4, 2021 at 7:26 am

I cannot wait to start travelling again:)

April 4, 2021 at 7:54 am

Good article. I would love to go on the Viking Trail. Looks like great fun.

April 4, 2021 at 8:27 am

Can’t wait to to one of these trips after the pandemic!

April 4, 2021 at 9:09 am

April 4, 2021 at 10:10 am

There are so many wonderful sights to see in Ontario. I would love to take the Lake Superior Circle Tour.

April 4, 2021 at 11:14 am

I’ve been to northern Ontario to see some friends, but didn’t have time to visit Algonquin. I hope to go back soon in better times and visit! So many beautiful sights!

April 4, 2021 at 12:50 pm

Oxford County cheese tour. 98 cheese factories, who knew!

April 4, 2021 at 1:21 pm

Looking forward to being able to go on road trips again!

April 4, 2021 at 1:46 pm

Sounds like an awesome visit!

April 4, 2021 at 3:04 pm

Enjoyed the article

April 4, 2021 at 4:51 pm

I’ve road tripped around the world and there’s still no place like Ontario for road trips.

April 4, 2021 at 7:59 pm

I’ll have to get on this! Thanks!

April 4, 2021 at 8:04 pm

Niagara Falls is a little further than 30 minutes from Toronto. 🙂 Also Quebec is the a largest province. Ontario 2nd. 🙂

April 5, 2021 at 12:38 pm

Woops. It was supposed to say second-largest. Thanks for catching that

April 5, 2021 at 3:43 am

I love Algonquin. One of my favourite places.

April 5, 2021 at 1:04 pm

I didn’t know about the waterfalls in the Hamilton area I am very familiar with Algonquin Park and Toronto I am somewhat familiar with Ottawa.

April 5, 2021 at 6:51 pm

I’m so happy I live in such an amazing province and country!

April 6, 2021 at 12:32 am

Gotta check out all these places! Putting these on the bucket list for sure!

April 7, 2021 at 3:47 pm

Great place to checkout!

April 9, 2021 at 7:38 am

The Niagara region is simply beautiful in the spring. A road trip is simply spectacular.

April 10, 2021 at 6:38 pm

These are sounding great

April 11, 2021 at 8:44 am

Thanks for sharing all this information, there are many nice places to visit in Ontario.

April 11, 2021 at 1:34 pm

J’adore la route des vins à Niagara-on-the-Lake

April 12, 2021 at 5:50 pm

Thanks! I can’t wait to travel again.

April 14, 2021 at 8:22 am

Great suggestions! Looking forward to exploring more of this province when things are safe to do so 🙂

April 15, 2021 at 1:54 pm

Have to put these on the bucket list!

April 17, 2021 at 1:18 pm

Good road trips!

April 19, 2021 at 9:12 am

Niagara Region is beautiful year round. Can’t wait to get back out there again.

April 23, 2021 at 6:51 am

Great article! Prince Edward wine tours sounds lovely.

April 27, 2021 at 9:26 am

Me mudé con mi esposa a Toronto hace un par de semanas y no podemos esperar para explorar TODO!!!

April 27, 2021 at 10:15 am

aha yes I bet!

May 8, 2021 at 7:48 am

I live in Ontario – and for The past 25 years I have done the road trip to Niagara-on-the-lake at least 25 times. I love it there! Picturesque, shopping, the food etc. And wine country right next door! Perfect road trip for me!

September 1, 2021 at 7:19 am

I’ve lived in Ontario all my life and I just learned about the Oxford County Cheese Trail from this article! I love cheese, so will definitely plan to do this this fall! Thank you for the great, comprehensive list.

September 1, 2021 at 9:36 am

I’m sure we’ll continue to uncover stuff too. COuntry is so big!

March 29, 2022 at 4:25 pm

You should find all the waterfalls in Ontario! Hamilton area, grey Bruce!

May 5, 2022 at 6:29 am

Thanks for these articles. Waterfalls of Ontario sounds like a good future article. Next time we have put of province visitors will definitely do some of these road trips.

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30 Exciting Weekend Getaways in Ontario: Your Top Places to Visit in Ontario for the Weekend

Planning weekend getaways in Ontario is a great way to see all the beauty of our province bit by bit. We’ve put together a list of 30 different ideas for weekend getaways in the province. We’ve organized the list by region, but make sure you check out all the ideas to help plan the perfect weekend for you to hit the road and savour Ontario.

If you’re looking for ways to mix up your day-to-day routine at home, then consider taking one of these exciting weekend getaways in Ontario.

Ontario is full of so many fantastic options for things to do. The main thing to keep in mind when you’re planning weekend getaways in Ontario is to choose something that’s close enough to justify going there for a weekend.

That’s why we’ve organized this list of weekend getaways into regional areas in the province, so you can think about how far you’re looking to go, and plan accordingly.

Putting together this list was a lot of fun, and there are so many different types of getaways on this list: quaint and quiet, zen and natural, unique and creative, or urban and entertaining.

Please note that this post may contain some affiliate links. This means we get a small commission for sharing our recommendations, at no cost to you.

Weekend Getaways in Ontario’s Southwest

Go on a bike tour around the lake erie north shore wine region.

On this weekend getaway, stay in Kingsville for the weekend. Jaunt out to the Lake Erie North Shore wine region for one of your two days.

There are over thirteen wineries and five restaurants in the region, along with some great shops in Kingsville and some of the surrounding hamlets. There are some breweries in the area, too.

If you’re looking to add a little something extra, this weekend getaway in Ontario can also lead you over to Leamington for some great beer , food, and views of Lake Erie at the Point Pelee Observation Tower.

Head to the Southernmost Points in Mainland and Island Canada

Start your weekend in the region by heading to Point Pelee National Park. The scenic drive down to the southernmost tip of mainland Canada is a neat experience. There are hiking trails and boardwalk paths you can explore. If you’re short on time, head to the Observation Tower .

Next, take the ferry from Leamington (make sure you book your ticket for the ferry well in advance!) to Pelee Island. The ferry ride is about 90 minutes, depending on weather conditions. Make sure you bring a book. We are big fans of The Wandering Dog Inn on Pelee Island, and there are plenty of great places to check out once you’re there.

Carve out some time to rent a bike, explore the island, go swimming, head to some restaurants, and enjoy living the island life. A Point Pelee winter getaway is another great way to experience this incredible park.

Dip Your Toes into Exciting Outdoor Experiences and Delectable Wineries in Norfolk County

Welcome to “Ontario’s Garden.” Stay at Long Point Eco-Adventures or the Port Rowan Inn* as your base for a weekend in the region .

To book your stay at Long Point Eco-Adventures, click here .

While you’re in Norfolk, head to different wineries and breweries, check out some lavender fields if you visit in the summer months, or enjoy many of the farm-fresh markets and roadside farm stands. This is, after all, a great growing region, so whether you visit in the summer or fall, the heaps of farm-fresh foods are a delight.

Make sure you plan to stop at Burning Kiln Winery during your stay–their famous “Kiln Hanger” is award-winning and one of the top-rated wines in the province. Long Point Eco-Adventures also has some exciting outdoor activities like zip-lining and mountain biking, or educational experiences like apiary tours and mushroom foraging hikes.

*Note: The Port Rowan Inn is closed for renovations as of May 2023.

Go “Retro” in Chatham and Nearby Small Towns

Stay at the Retro Suites Hotel in Chatham. This neat hotel has over twenty suites, each with its own unique theme. It’s a destination in and of itself. If you happen to visit in June, or if you love learning about and seeing vintage cars, then make sure you check out their annual Retro Fest .

To book a memorable stay at the Retro Suites Hotel, click here .

Head to their restaurant, the Chilled Cork, for breakfast or dinner, and head to Sons of Kent brewing before you walk around town.

After you’ve enjoyed some time in Chatham, there are some adorable towns in the region to check out, too. Dresden is one of our favourites!

Relax on the Shores of Lake Huron in Grand Bend

Head to Grand Bend for the weekend. This spot is one of the most charming towns in Ontario . Grand Bend is a great place to visit in the warmer months to enjoy the beaches and its access to Lake Huron.

We’re also big fans of Pinery Provincial Park, which is just down the road. It’s a great park for taking long, scenic walks and enjoying more of what the shores of Lake Huron have to offer.

A Weekend in London, And Then Some

A weekend getaway in London is a great option for those looking for an experience in the city. Stay at The Park Hotel; it’s a really impressive property.

To book your stay at The Park Hotel, click here .

London is home to a ton of great restaurants. There are also a lot of unique and local things to do in the area .

If you’re looking to explore a few fun nearby places, there are some great golf courses near London . The town of Strathroy is also beautiful. The Clocktower Inn is a great place to stay overnight or enjoy a meal. MJ’s Roadhouse in Lucan is also a restaurant worth stopping at.

To book a stay at the historic Clocktower Inn, click here .

If you’re keen to venture a little further, the town of Port Stanley is also very charming!

A Weekend in Windsor

Windsor is another great city in Ontario’s Southwest. The range of different activities and things to do in Windsor is pretty exhaustive! If you’re looking for a Las Vegas-style getaway without the flight, Caesar’s Palace in Windsor is an excellent place to stay. They even have their own casino!

If you want to experience Caesar’s Palace right here in Ontario for yourself, click here .

Aside from casinos, Windsor’s Ford City is a neighbourhood well worth checking out .

A weekend in Windsor can also easily be combined with an extension to Pelee Island Wine Country if you have the time.

Weekend Getaways in Ontario’s South Central

Take in the Scenic Rolling Hills and Hamlets of Mulmur

There are so many beautiful hamlets to be explored on this weekend getaway in Ontario. This is more of a relaxed pace for a weekend escape than others. Stay at Foxingham Farm B&B in Mansfield to enjoy the rolling hills in the spring and summer, brilliant fall colours in autumn, or downhill skiing in the winter.

To book your stay at the charming Foxingham Farm Bed & Breakfast, click here .

Head to Mrs. Mitchell’s Restaurant for a delicious breakfast, dinner, or afternoon tea. Explore the Dufferin Museum and plenty of shopping and farms in the region. Don’t forget to visit the Schitt’s Creek Rosebud Motel and the region of Hockley Valley while you’re here, too.

Head to Lake Scugog and its Surrounding Charming Towns

Regardless of what time of year you visit, this corner of Durham Region is a pretty place. In the warmer months, heading out kayaking off of Lake Scugog is the perfect way to get out on the water. During the winter, ice fishing on the same lake is a favourite local pastime.

Round out your visit by spending some time in Port Perry. Learn various crafts in art classes at Meta4. Sample some delicious local craft beer at Old Flame Brewery. Or enjoy lunch or stay overnight at the Piano Inn and Cafe, or head just outside town to the charming Nestleton Waters Inn.

On your way in our out of Port Perry, you can head to Uxbridge. Make sure you stop at a local favourite, Haugen’s, on your way. Their rotisserie chickens have been spinning for over 60 years! Stop in Goodwood, too, before arriving in Uxbridge. Goodwood is the home of downtown Schitt’s Creek–think Cafe Tropical and Rose Apothecary .

In Uxbridge , there are a lot of great restaurants, hiking and biking trails. You can catch your breath at The Second Wedge for a pint after your adventures.

Enjoy a Weekend of Neighbourhood Culture in Toronto

Of course, it’s challenging to cram all the ideas for things to do in Toronto into a little blurb, but we’d recommend planning your weekend based on a region. We’ve outlined a few neighbourhoods and ideal hotels you can stay at in each one.

Maybe you’d like to book a stay on the waterfront at the Westin Harbour Castle and check out the surrounding areas. Or, perhaps you’d like to stay in the eastern neighbourhoods of the city and book yourself into the Broadview Hotel in Leslieville .

Or maybe you plan to stay more centrally, like booking a stay at The Chelsea Hotel . And if you head to the west, you might be happier booking a few nights at The Drake .

Regardless of which direction you choose on this weekend getaway, Toronto is chock-full of fun-filled activities , water sports , hiking trails , fun facts , and bars for you to check out on your visit.

It’s always fun to see what’s on at the Royal Ontario Museum or the Art Gallery of Ontario when you visit the town, too! There are even some ways to visit these Toronto museums for free .

If you’re looking to take a tour while you’re in Toronto, we’d highly recommend taking an evening helicopter tour of the city. You can book your ticket here.

Head to one of the Most Charming Towns Near the Grand River

This is a bit of a stretch, since not all of these towns connect to the Grand River, but take your pick between a charming weekend in either Stratford, Elora, or Paris.

Both Elora and Paris, while distanced, are situated on different spots along the Grand River. Both are scenic and charming. Stratford is a little further west along Lake Victoria.

Take in the History and Nature of Niagara

This weekend getaway combines the historic charm of Niagara-on-the-Lake with family fun and excitement in Niagara Falls. Depending on the type of weekend getaways in Ontario you’re looking for, you can easily pick one or the other, or do a combination of both.

Begin with all the excitement that Niagara Falls’ attractions offer. You can do exhilarating things like:

• Zip-Line over the falls (you can book your ticket here )
• Take a jet boat tour of the Niagara Rapids (make sure you book your tour here )
• Head to the Butterfly Conservatory

To round out the exciting portion of the weekend, take a breath in charming Niagara-on-the-Lake. Rent a bike and visit local wineries or nature paths along the Niagara River, or simply stroll around town, stopping to shop, have a bite to eat , or just admire the beautiful buildings in the area. Either Niagara Falls or Niagara-on-the-Lake can be its own weekend getaway, but if you’re interested in both areas, it’s definitely worth it to find time to work them both in.

Relax and Enjoy the Outdoors in Collingwood and The Blue Mountains

This is one of the weekend getaways in Ontario that takes you to the scenic mountains of southern Ontario. Collingwood is a wonderful jumping-off point to see the region. They have a lot of great breweries and restaurants, and plenty of fun things to do.

Just a stone’s throw away, The B lue Mountains also offer a ton of fun things to do in the region. If you’re keen on outdoor activities, it is a great place to be. If you prefer more of a relaxing weekend getaway in the surrounds of nature, then this is also the right spot. This is especially true since there are plenty of relaxing spas in the area for you to enjoy during your stay.

To book your stay at Blue Mountain Resort while you’re in town, click here .

Relaxation and Neighbourhood Walks at Langdon Hall and Cambridge

For those who have visited this corner of Waterloo Region, it is certainly a very special place. Langdon Hall is a well-known and renowned place to stay. This historic and impressive estate will certainly leave a lasting and memorable impression on you well after you leave. They offer packages that include spa credits and multi-course meals on the property.

Book your unforgettable stay at Langdon Hall by clicking here .

When you’re ready to explore beyond the relaxing environment and grounds at Langdon Hall, the city of Cambridge, most specifically in the town of Galt, makes for a great place to walk around and explore. Galt has beautiful views of the Grand River, and a lot of great coffee shops, pubs, and restaurants in the area.

For TV and film enthusiasts, its historic homes and charming streets are the places of numerous filming locations, namely for Hulu’s The Handmaid’s Tale and Netflix’s The Queen’s Gambit . Keep an eye out for these locations as you walk around town. And don’t forget to stop at Foundry Brewing before heading back to Langdon Hall.

Take in the Food, Culture and History of St. Jacobs and Kitchener

Plan to stay in or near the quaint town of St. Jacobs over the weekend. The brand new Hampton Inn & Suites is an impressive building with great design and functionality, and it’s right across from the St. Jacobs Country Playhouse.

If you’d like to book a stay at the Hampton Inn & Suites in St. Jacobs, click here .

Enjoy a walking tour of the town of St. Jacobs and check out street art, shops, and great public spaces along the way. Plan to head to the famous St. Jacobs market on a Saturday for plenty of farm-market goods and freshly baked and cooked foods from different corners of the world. The market is famous for its apple fritters, but be prepared for long lines on Saturdays the longer you wait. Aim to go early, if it’s possible! Head to their Antique Stores, too. You’ll be sure to find something unique.

Finish the weekend with a guided Stroll Walking Tour around an area of your choice. Their Downtown Kitchener Mural Arts walk is a great way to learn about local artists in the region. Downtown Kitchener is also home to several wonderful places to grab a coffee or a drink, and restaurants for after you’ve finished your walk.

Weekend Getaways in Ontario’s Highlands, Kawarthas & Northumberland

Relax at St. Anne’s Spa and Visit Charming Local Towns

Plan an Ontario weekend getaway at the spa! St. Anne’s Spa in Grafton is a renowned and relaxing place to get away. While you’ll likely want to spend most of the weekend soaking in the relaxing delights of the spa, make sure you carve out some time to explore one of the local charming towns.

To book your relaxing stay at St. Anne’s Spa, click here .

Port Hope and Cobourg both made our list of the most charming small towns in Ontario ! Each is set on the shores of Lake Ontario and is worth exploring in its own right. Depending on the time of year, each town also has its own theatre with local shows, which would well be worth checking out during your visit.

Meander Through the Charming Small Towns of Lanark County

This region of Ontario is chock-full of charming small towns. We are big fans of Perth, Westport, and Almonte in Lanark County. Each of these towns has historic charm, great restaurants, and local businesses to support, and they are excellent for walking around.

Consider staying locally at a charming bed and breakfast. Clyde Hall B&B is a great place to stay , and its owners are talented pastry chefs.

To book your stay at Clyde Hall B&B, click here .

On top of being home to beautiful small towns, Lanark County is home to both the Lanark County Chocolate Trail , in addition to being the maple syrup capital of Ontario!

Wheeler’s Pancake House is a local favourite sugar shack to visit, with great walking trails through their sugar bush on the property. If the historic charm of the region isn’t enough to convince you, then we hope these sweet culinary delights will be.

Weekend Getaways in Ontario’s Southeast

Take Your Own Personal Food Tour in Belleville and the Bay of Quinte

Belleville is a great place for a weekend getaway in Ontario. Their downtown district is full of great places to eat, with everything from authentic Mexican food to gourmet restaurants. A bonus is that it’s very walking and bike-friendly, so there are plenty of ways to enjoy the fresh air as you wander.

Take some time to head out of the downtown core to Zwick’s Park or north to Signal Brewery on the Moira River. South to the harbour area is also great for beautiful views over the Bay of Quinte. We’re big fans of grabbing a sunset bite to eat or a drink at The Pier Patio Bar and Grill. This weekend could also easily be combined with…

A Weekend in Prince Edward County

Start your weekend by staying overnight in the charming small town of Picton, or at one of the cute bed and breakfasts across the region.

Merrill House is an incredible historic bed and breakfast in Picton, and makes for an excellent place to stay. Click here to book your room .

You can plan your days around spending time in nature, like at Sandbanks Provincial Park or Lake-on-the-Mountain. Aside from that, the adorable hamlets in the area are great to explore while you’re sipping your way through some of the most amazing wineries and breweries in this region.

Enjoy Quiet Island Life on Amherst Island and Mainland Bath

This is a special little corner of Lennox and Addington County. Amherst Island is a relaxing island, just off the coast of mainland Bath, Ontario.

Stay at The Lodge on Amherst Island in Stella. Make sure you check out all the things to do on Amherst Island . Either on your way there or on your way back from the island, be sure to stop in Bath for a coffee and a snack or lunch at The Lodge Coffee House . The owner is wonderful, and the food and coffee are worth the stop. It’s a great excuse to check out the small and charming historic town of Bath, too, and patronize their local businesses in the region.

Spend a Weekend in Canada’s Intended Capital City

Kingston is a great place to get away for the weekend in Ontario. Its history is one of great importance to our province and country, and the views from downtown out to Wolfe Island and Lake Ontario are beautiful. There are plenty of historic places to check out, and beautiful neighbourhoods to walk around.

Queens University campus also makes for a great place to explore and wander. There are plenty of other awesome things to do in Kingston that you can choose from on your weekend away.

We’d recommend booking your stay at The Smith Hotel , or booking a few nights at The Secret Garden Inn .

Boat and Wander Through the Thousand Islands and Gananoque

Gananoque is the perfect access point to the famous Thousand Islands region. Stay at the Comfort Inn and Suites in downtown Gananoque (we know, this sounds like an odd choice, but it’s honestly the best location to visit the area!) or a local inn or bed and breakfast downtown.

To book your stay at The Comfort Inn and Suites Gananoque, click here .

From central Gananoque, you can head on a boat or kayaking tour of the islands. There are long and short boat tours, some of which go all the way across to the mansions on the American side of the islands.

For a complete list of all the different types of tours your can take to see the Thousand Islands, click here .

You can also rent bikes and bike along the Thousand Islands Parkway, which is a beautifully paved and preserved road along the Canadian shore of the St. Lawrence River.

Gananoque also has a wonderful restaurant scene and a great brewery. While you’re in town, check out what’s on at the Thousand Islands Playhouse.

On your way out of town, be sure to stop at BUSL Cider in Mallorytown for some scenic rural views and tasty samplings at this modern cidery.

Weekend Getaways in Ontario’s East

Explore Canada’s Capital

Ottawa is a fantastic city to visit on a weekend. There are so many fun things to do and see that would easily fill up more than a weekend. We’d recommend pinpointing what makes you tick when you plan one of your weekend getaways in Ontario based in Ottawa.

Plan to stay at a central hotel. The Andaz Hotel in the Byward Market is a great option, with beautiful views of Parliament from the top floor. If you’re looking to splurge a little, staying at the Fairmont Chateau Laurier is a very special experience.

To book your stay at the Andaz Hotel, click here . To book your stay at the Chateau Laurier, click here .

You can use this list of fun facts about Ottawa to help you plan. Ottawa is home to many informative tours , walks, experiences, markets , and finer things . If you plan to visit in the spring, that’s the perfect time to experience Ottawa’s famous tulip festival while they’re in bloom. You’re sure to find something that’s just right for you when you visit Ottawa.

If you are a fan of guided tours, there are also so many exciting ways to see Ottawa by tour. You can take biking tours, river cruises or walking tours, and far more. To discover all the great tours in Ottawa, click here.

Hire a Houseboat to Cruise the Rideau Canal

This is a very neat experience that would lend itself well to a weekend getaway. If you weren’t aware that you could rent a houseboat in Ontario, then you should definitely check out Le Boat Vacations. Le Boat offers experiences all over the world, but their boat trips along the Rideau Canal between Ottawa and Kingston are not to be missed.

You are essentially given a boat, instructed on how to use it, and you’re off! You’ll need to bring your own food and supplies, so it’s kind of like an elevated camping experience on the water. Plus, you’ll take in the sights of the UNESCO World Heritage site of the Rideau Canal the way it was intended: from the water.

Weekend Getaways in Ontario’s North (Sudbury and Beyond)

Spend a Weekend in “The Soo”

Sault Ste. Marie is a great place for a weekend getaway, especially for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. There are so many awesome things to do in “The Soo” . Make sure you save some time to check out the many great restaurants in town while you’re there, too!

Enjoy the Urban and Natural Attractions in Thunder Bay

Thunder Bay is home to some really fun activities and outings . You can go sailing in the summer months, or hiking and downhill skiing in the winter.

It has some pretty phenomenal historical sites to check out in the region , too. And their food scene and culinary delights aren’t to be missed.

Plan to Take in Some Stars in the Dark Sky

We are so lucky to have some incredible places for stargazing in Ontario . Not only can we enjoy the stars from so many different parts of the province, but we have several designated dark-sky preserves right here in the province of Ontario.

One of the newest official dedicated preserves is in Quetico Provincial Park . It’s a rugged park, located north of Lake Superior and bordering Minnesota. It’s one of several excellent places to see the Northern Lights in Ontario .

Head to Enchanting Manitoulin Island on Lake Huron

Manitoulin Island is another excellent island worth checking out on an Ontario weekend getaway. You’ll likely want to make a long weekend out of it if time permits, but it will certainly be worth it.

There are plenty of cruises and hikes that you can take to fully immerse yourself in the nature of the island. There are also several ways for you to learn about the Indigenous peoples of the island, and better understand the history of the place you’re visiting. The North Channel Cruise is especially one of our favourites to take in on this weekend getaway in Ontario.

Enjoy Science and Nature in Sudbury

There are so many exciting things to do in Sudbury . With everything from “sciencey” sites like The Big Nickel and Science North, to the Bell Park Walkway and the Lake Laurentian Conservation Area, it’s perfect for a family weekend getaway.

Sudbury is also an excellent destination for restaurants and delicious food . You’ll be sure to leave happy and satisfied after a visit to some of their amazing restaurants.

The Importance of Taking Weekend Getaways in Ontario

We are so thrilled that you’ve taken the time to read through our list of weekend getaways in Ontario.

The options are truly endless for exploring this province, and with each trip, you’ll encounter small business owners, passionate hosts in hotels, inns, bed and breakfasts, and places perfect for reflection.

Our emphasis on “slow travel”, and taking in local delights is a philosophy we truly hope will stick at Ultimate Ontario. We see it as the future of travel here, and we hope you do, too.

There’s a lot worth exploring in this province. We hope you find that by the end of your weekend getaways in Ontario, you’ll come back happy for what you’ve seen, but also yearning for your next opportunity to get back on the road.

We’ll see you there.

Bri Mitchell is a travel writer and content creator from Toronto, Ontario. She loves to highlight all things nature, food, wellness, history and adventures in her work. Bri writes and shares her travel experiences from across Canada and beyond on Instagram and TikTok @brimitchelltravels, and in her articles for travelingmitch.com , Ultimate Ontario, and here on We Explore Canada.

Tuesday 24th of August 2021

Spelt Lake Erie incorrectly, " the Lake Eerie North Shore Wine Region

On this weekend getaway, stay in Kingsville for the weekend. Jaunt out to the Lake Eerie."

Kevin Wagar

Thursday 26th of August 2021

Thanks for catching that!

Privacy Overview

30 Best Ontario Road Trips You Need to Experience (2024)

Posted on Published: June 27, 2023  - Last updated: January 8, 2024

Categories Blog , Canada , Ontario , Road Trips

These are the best road trips in Ontario that you’ll want to experience as soon as possible. On these top Ontario road trips, I’m going to showcase some fantastic destinations and give you many ideas for upcoming travels in the province. Looking for even more places to visit? Here are the 30 best small towns in Ontario and the best beaches in Ontario .

Spending hours in the car might not seem like a lot of fun at first. However, I’ve got some great road trip tips to help make the journey almost as enjoyable as the destination. Some of the essentials include yummy food and drink (coffee is an absolute must for me!), an epic road trip music playlist, downloadable maps, and don’t forget your sunglasses!

Posts may be sponsored. Post contains affiliate links. I may be compensated if you make a purchase using my link.

Are you a hiker? You may want to hop over to my other website, Ontario Hiking, to check out the top 100 hikes in Ontario . You could easily plan 100 road trips using this list alone. If you’re looking for Ontario road trips with many things to see and do, here’s my list of the best destinations around the province that you simply must see.

Need a Rental Car for your Ontario Road Trip?

I always use Discover Cars when I need a car rental, no matter where I’m traveling in the world. If you’re thinking about tackling any of these road trips in Ontario and you don’t have a car, I suggest comparing car rental prices to find the best rates. Happy road trippin’!

Table of Contents

Best Road Trips in Ontario: 1000 Islands

The Thousand Islands region is an incredible destination for lovers of outdoor adventures. Hiking , kayaking , paddleboarding. You name it and you’ll likely be able to do it in the 1000 Islands. There’s also delicious food and drink, fascinating history, and it’s oozing with small town charm.

The town of Gananoque is considered to be the “gateway to the Thousand Islands”. This is likely where you’ll want to base yourself for the night. There’s a quaint downtown core with shops, restaurants, and even a brewery.

This is also a jumping off point for many popular attractions, like a kayaking tour or a boat cruise of the 1000 Islands on the St. Lawrence River. Then, it’s easy to explore the rest of the region from Gananoque, such as the Thousand Islands National Park . I stayed at the comfortable and conveniently located Colonial Resort & Spa .

Southern Ontario Road Trips: Grand Bend

Grand Bend is home to one of the best beaches in Ontario , and that’s a good enough reason to plan your Ontario road trip there. Beyond the beautiful beach, there’s also a wonderful provincial park (that also has a pretty beach!), a resort with a spa and golf course, two wineries, and fantastic restaurants.

In this blog post, I show you how to spend a day or two in Grand Bend , while taking a day trip to nearby Sarnia. No matter what you end up doing, don’t miss the sunsets in Grand Bend. They are among the best in the province, Canada, and possibly the world!

If you’re looking for where to stay in Grand Bend, check out Oakwood Resort . Not only is there a spa and golf course, but there’s also great dining options and a pristine section of the beach that you can access straight from the property.

Adorable Towns on Lake Huron

Looking for more great places to visit on Lake Huron? If you continue traveling north from Grand Bend, you’ll hit so many beautiful small towns and villages on the way. Over the course of a weekend or a few days, you can explore each charming place. Stop to admire the little main street villages, the stunning beaches, and the parks and trails.

From Grand Bend and traveling north, the best places to visit include Bayfield, Goderich, Kincardine, Port Elgin and Southampton. You can also continue on to the popular beach town in Ontario, Sauble Beach, with its iconic sign welcoming you to the beach. Stay at a historic inn in Goderich, the Benmiller Inn & Spa , for the ultimate getaway.

Places to Visit in Ontario: Port Stanley

Port Stanley is another one of the best road trips in Ontario that you can take this summer. I recommend visiting both Port Stanley and the nearby village of Sparta, as you can see in my Port Stanley itinerary . Located on the shores of Lake Erie in Elgin County, Port Stanley is one of the cutest small towns in Ontario and an awesome road trip destination.

There are so many things to do in Port Stanley that make for a memorable getaway: shopping, renting a bike and riding around town, having a beach day or two, visiting a lavender farm, frequenting a winery, and even going for a hike. And don’t forget all of the delectable restaurants and coffee shops.

When you visit Port Stanley, I suggest staying at one of the Carriage Houses at The Windjammer Inn . My Carriage House had so many wonderful amenities, like a kitchenette, a Jacuzzi tub, and a little patio out front. Plus, your stay comes with one of the tastiest breakfasts I’ve ever enjoyed at a hotel.

Ontario Weekend Road Trips: Stratford

Stratford is another amazing city in Ontario that has small town vibes, especially around its historic downtown. You might know Stratford best for the Stratford Festival or the fact that it’s the hometown of Justin Bieber, but there are so many things to see in this picturesque Ontario city.

Downtown Stratford has many unique boutiques and small businesses you’ll love. As an artsy city, there’s no shortage of festivities, public art, and local galleries. Stratford is nestled on the banks of the Avon River, so you can soak up beautiful views and explore its scenic trails.

Add delicious food and beverages to the mix, and you’ve got the makings of a delightful trip to Stratford, Ontario. Some of my favorite restaurants include Grounded (“Purely Plant Based Cafe”) and The Planet Diner (vegan comfort food). Spend the night at Foster’s Inn , conveniently located in Stratford’s downtown core.

Road Trip to London, Ontario

London, Ontario is a big city with small town vibes. As I strolled down Richmond Row, the historic shopping district in London’s downtown core, the old buildings seamlessly merged with modern boutiques. It’s also known as “The Forest City”, so you can imagine that there are lots of great outdoor activities in nature.

Here’s why a trip to London is one of the best road trips in Ontario: there are outdoor adventures, fantastic restaurants, brilliant museums, and even a gigantic arcade with tons of video games. I recommend going treetop trekking at Boler Mountain, admiring the thoughtful art displays at Museum London, and playing games at the Rec Room.

For food and drink, sampling tea and eats at The Tea Lounge is a must. Love craft beer? Head over to Curley Brewing Company for refreshing beer and tasty pub fare. Stay at The Park Hotel with its modern and dazzling suites, centrally located in the middle of it all.

Woodstock and Oxford County

Woodstock and Oxford County is another overlooked region of Ontario that I loved visiting. I spent a day in Woodstock and a day in Otterville and Tillsonburg.

In Woodstock, I frequented a lot of amazing local businesses like Early Bird Coffee, Wild Comfort Body Care, Habitual Chocolate, and Upper Thames Brewing Company. One thing that I really loved was how each small business worked with one another. For instance, the brewery provided beer to make body care products. The chocolate shop offered cacao nibs for a stout beer.

Otterville and Tillsonburg were also pleasant surprises to check out. Otterville has lots of opportunities to explore history and nature, and it’s a great place to go kayaking. In Tillsonburg, I cut my own flowers at a local flower farm, attended an outdoor yoga class, and ate lots of yummy food. Combine a trip to Woodstock, Otterville, and Tillsonburg for one of the most epic Ontario road trips.

If you’re looking for places to stay in the region, I suggest checking out this beautiful chalet just outside of Tillsonburg. Stay in this country home in a peaceful setting with many modern amenities.

Road Trips in Southern Ontario: Windsor

Have you visited Windsor yet? It’s one of my top southern Ontario road trips, especially if you are up for an eco-friendly getaway. While Windsor might be known historically as the automotive capital, there are lots of awesome adventures in the city.

I spent the majority of my time in Tecumseh as there are many fantastic activities near Lake St. Clair. You can go standup paddleboarding (I highly recommend the sunset SUP tour). There are lots of cycling paths and trails to explore.

Plus, I loved all of the yummy vegan eats! There’s a vegan donut shop that captured my heart (Plant Joy), especially since you can get your name spelled out in donuts. Also, be sure to dine at Nooch, Healthy Mama, Carrots n’ Dates, and Thyme Kitchen. Stay at A Hidden Gem B&B , a gorgeous historic home in Windsor.

Road Trip to Beaches and More: Turkey Point

Turkey Point is an underrated destination in Ontario and one of the best road trips in southern Ontario. It’s a short drive from Hamilton and Brantford, and just a couple of hours from Toronto. Turkey Point Beach on Lake Erie with its calm waters is a big draw for families with small children, as well as couples, groups of friends, and multigenerational family trips.

If you’re not visiting during the summertime, there are still many great things to do in Turkey Point that can be enjoyed in all seasons. First, Long Point Eco Adventures has thrilling outdoor amusements with its ziplines, kayaking tours, and night sky observation tours. There are also glamping wilderness suites and pods on site.

Justin and I stayed in a cute cottage with some of our friends when we visited Turkey Point. This lakefront beach house is right across the road from the beach, so you really can’t get much closer than this. It’s a cozy beach bungalow with four bedrooms and more than enough room for all your friends and family.

Niagara Falls and Niagara-on-the-Lake

While it might be an obvious suggestion, there’s a reason why so many people in Ontario (and around the world) flock to Niagara Falls . It’s one of the most beautiful waterfalls in the world. Although I’ve been to Niagara Falls more times than I can count, it never ceases to amaze me.

Walk along the Falls, take a ride on the famous Hornblower Cruises ferry to the base of the falls (aka the Maid of the Mist), or walk through tunnels right beside Niagara Falls itself. I have even more suggestions on how to experience Niagara Falls in the fall and Niagara Falls in the winter . The Niagara Parkway is a great place to go cycling , if you’d like a break from all the driving.

Don’t miss going to Niagara-on-the-Lake, especially if you’re a fan of wine. This is the heart of Niagara’s wine country with over 120 wineries to visit. Niagara-on-the-Lake is a charming little town that’s perfect for a day trip, too.

Stay at the Embassy Suites by Hilton Niagara for views of Niagara Falls from your room. If you’d rather spend the night in Niagara-on-the-Lake, we really enjoyed staying at the Pillar and Post Inn & Spa for a romantic getaway together.

Best Road Trips From Toronto: Muskoka Region

There are so many amazing things to do in Muskoka, especially in the summertime. There are kayaking and paddling trips, exploring the hiking trails , or relaxing on a dock with a frosty pint. If you’re looking for places to visit in the Muskoka region, I suggest road tripping through Gravenhurst, Bracebridge, and Huntsville, to name a few.

In Bracebridge, there are numerous waterfalls and natural wonders along the Trans Canada Trail. Gravenhurst is another cute town that you’ll want to explore on the way to beautiful outdoor spaces. Huntsville is a gem of a town with a delightful downtown core, a brewery, and patios upon patios.

Muskoka has approximately 1600 lakes and 14,000 kilometers of shoreline, with no shortage of beautiful beaches and places to explore. You can visit again and again for new experiences each time, making it one of the best road trips in Ontario. It’s also the gateway to Algonquin Park, one of the best provincial parks in Ontario.

Deerhurst Resort is a stunning property in Huntsville to rest your head at night. Justin and I attended a wedding here in the past and the resort was a beautiful destination in itself. There are two swimming pools on site, as well as the spa, a golf course, treetop trekking and much more.

Collingwood, Blue Mountain and Thornbury

You may have made more than a trip or two to Wasaga Beach over the years, but there’s so much more to see along Georgian Bay. Collingwood is a really lovely town to visit with a main street full of shops and restaurants. Scenic Caves Nature Adventures isn’t too far from Collingwood, and it’s home to some intriguing caves and southern Ontario’s longest suspension bridge.

Blue Mountain Village is popular in all seasons, whether you’re skiing or snowboarding in the winter or hiking in the summer. Soak in the soothing waters at Scandinave Spa Blue Mountain or take in an evening lights festival at Blue Mountain, depending on the season.

Continue your road trip west of Blue Mountain to the town of Thornbury . It’s a cute place to visit in Ontario with a main street filled with cafes and shops. There’s also a cidery in Thornbury, a large antique market, and some trails to explore as well. Stay at Penny’s Motel , a chic and stylish property that you’ll love.

Road Trip to Kingston, Ontario

Kingston is another amazing city in Ontario and one of the best road trips from Toronto. Downtown Kingston has charming inns, delectable dining options, and lots of water sports on the St. Lawrence River. Justin and I went standup paddleboarding for the first time in Kingston, and we had a total blast!

There are many Kingston attractions that you’ll want to check out. You can visit historic Fort Henry, take the ferry to Wolfe Island, and tour the Kingston Penitentiary. Lemoine Point Conservation Area is a great place to go for a hike, and going for a ride on the Kingston Trolley Tour is super iconic.

Stay at the Delta Hotels by Marriott Kingston Waterfront to be in the center of all the action. Situated right on the lake overlooking Confederation Park, you’ll be within walking distance of Kingston’s downtown core with its vibrant shops and restaurants.

Tobermory and the Bruce Peninsula

What kind of a “best road trips in Ontario” article would this be if I didn’t mention Tobermory and the Bruce Peninsula ? Tobermory is known as the “freshwater scuba diving capital of the world” for its intriguing shipwrecks in Fathom Five National Marine Park, Canada’s first national marine conservation area.

It’s also home to Bruce Peninsula National Park and its famous Grotto cave. Hikers will absolutely love the Bruce Peninsula as there are incredible trails at the national park, Flowerpot Island , and Lions Head Provincial Park.

Even if you aren’t massively into hiking, there are amazing views for days from the town itself or one of the easier walking paths. In the harbour, you’ll find restaurants and a brewery. It’s a sweet place to visit, although it does get very busy during the summer months. Stay at the Bruce Anchor Motel right in town for a comfortable and convenient overnight stay.

Point Pelee and Pelee Island

Point Pelee National Park is the southernmost portion of mainland Canada, just south of Leamington. You’ll discover five unique Carolinian habitats and the opportunity to witness over 370 species of birds throughout the year.

While I highly recommend visiting Point Pelee by day, you can also have an entirely new experience at night. Point Pelee National Park is one of the best dark sky preserves in Ontario . The best times to see the stars at Point Pelee National Park are during the new moon (when you can’t see the moon in the sky). During these nights, the park will stay open until midnight, which are longer operating hours than usual.

Pelee Island is a great place to rest and unwind. It’s the southernmost inhabited place in Canada. There are a few relaxing hikes, a lighthouse, and a winery. From Leamington or Kingsville , you can also take the ferry over to Pelee Island. Spend the night at Inn 15 Brewery Loft Suites in Kingsville.

Cute Small Town in Ontario: Elora

Is Elora quite possibly the cutest town in Ontario? I don’t like to pick favorites, but Elora really captured my heart . It’s one of the best places in Ontario to visit for the weekend, just an hour outside of Toronto. So, if you’re looking for the best road trips from Toronto, Elora is a great one to consider. Plus, you can visit the nearby town of Fergus in the same trip.

There are plenty of outdoor adventures in Elora, like hiking at Elora Gorge Conservation Area , going tubing, or swimming at the Elora Quarry. Treat yourself to afternoon tea in a pretty garden patio at The Wild Tart. Go shopping along the main street. If you really want to treat yourself, a spa day at Elora Mill is absolutely divine.

Elora also has an assortment of cafes, a brewery, pubs, and restaurants. I suggest spending the night at the cozy Cheshire Cat B&B for a warm and welcoming spot in town.

Dundas, Ontario (Hamilton)

Are you a fan of cute small towns and beautiful nature? Dundas is a community in Hamilton, Ontario that has a little bit of everything. There’s a quaint main street featuring dozens of shops, cafes and restaurants. Don’t miss stopping at Detour Coffee or Beanermunky Chocolates. Go for a stroll at the Dundas Driving Park or attend a local festival in the summer.

Aside from the quaint downtown core, Dundas is best known for its beautiful conservation areas and hiking trails. The  Dundas Valley Conservation Area  is always a treat to visit with its extensive trail system, the Hermitage ruins, and the old Victorian train station. Dundas also has two waterfalls (Tews Falls and  Websters Falls ), as well as amazing lookout point called the  Dundas Peak .

While there aren’t any hotels or apartment rentals within Dundas itself, you can stay down the road in Hamilton. Try the SoMa Furnished Residences for a comfortable and convenient place to stay.

Brant County (Brantford and Paris)

There’s plenty of fun to be had in “The Telephone City”! Brantford has turned into quite the Ontario road trip destination over the years with engaging attractions and museums, including national historic sites, as well as outdoor adventures on the Grand River. You absolutely must go tubing on the Grand River as it’s like a giant natural lazy river!

From Brantford, hop over to the nearby town of Paris, especially if you love small towns like I do. Paris has a charming main street with restaurants and shops. You can dine on the patios lining the Grand River, and there are many Instagrammable spots around town, too. Spend the night at the idyllic Arlington Hotel right in the middle of town.

Prince Edward County

Prince Edward County has grown to be a very popular summer road trip destination in Ontario over the years. Next to Niagara, it’s one of the best wine countries in Ontario, and it’s even home to the world’s first vegan-certified winery, Karlo Estates.

For outdoor activities, Prince Edward County is home to Sandbanks Provincial Park, as well as 800km+ of shoreline to enjoy. There are also six museums around the County featuring Indigenous history and a pioneer village.

Prince Edward County is home to many artists and you can venture out on an art studio trail to visit them in person. Many studios offer instructed workshops where you can get crafty yourself. There’s also so much to see and do when it comes to catching live theater performances or concerts. Base yourself at the Merrill House in Picton and spend a few days road tripping around and adventuring.

Brighton and the Bay of Quinte

Brighton and the Bay of Quinte region is another excellent Ontario weekend road trip you need to take. You’ll find Brighton on the coastline of Lake Ontario, about two hours from Toronto and three hours from Ottawa. This is one of Ontario’s most charming small towns that also has an abundance of outdoor adventures.

There are so many things to see and do in Brighton. You can go hiking at Presqu’ile Provincial Park and Proctor Park Conservation Area . There’s a quaint downtown core with local shops that offer unique finds. Plus, Brighton is surrounded by countryside and farms with the freshest produce around.

In Brighton, the Timber House Resort is one of the best hotels that I’m sure you’ll love. It’s a beachfront property with uniquely decorated rooms featuring wood beam ceilings. There’s an outdoor swimming pool, bicycle rentals, and a great breakfast.

Road Trips in Ontario: Belleville

Belleville is another fantastic road trip in Ontario with many fun attractions and activities to discover. Downtown Belleville features a historic city centre with many local shops, cafes, breweries and restaurants. Check out the street art and colourful murals all over town while you’re there, too.

There’s no shortage of unique seasonal happenings, like Pop-Ups on the Bay, and there are plenty of outdoor adventures to be had. I loved kayaking on the Bay of Quinte and going for a walk on the Waterfront Trail. Glanmore National Historic Site of Canada provides an insightful window into the past, and there might be a cool event to check out when you’re there.

You can pair your trip to Belleville with some other towns in the Bay of Quinte, like Trenton and Brighton. There are also some nearby conservation areas with hiking trails, like Sager Conservation Area , HR Frink Conservation Area and Bleasdell Boulder Conservation Area . Stay at the clean and modern hotel,  Towneplace Suites by Marriott Belleville .

Lennox and Addington County

Lennox and Addington County is a lesser known destination in South Eastern Ontario that you need to add to your Ontario road trip bucket list. Make your home base in Greater Napanee and explore several nearby areas, like Loyalist Township and Stone Mills Township. Stay at the Seasons Gallery Retreat , a relaxing getaway in historic Napanee.

Napanee has a cute downtown core with excellent shops, restaurants and caf. You can walk everywhere in Napanee, including a stroll to a waterfall in the middle of town on a riverfront boardwalk. Then, hop on board a pontoon boat for a cruise on the Napanee River.

Visit one of Ontario’s quiet islands, Amherst Island, perfect for birdwatching and immersing yourself in nature. Stop in the village of Bath first, which is where you’ll catch the ferry to Amherst Island. Bath has one main streets with some artisan shops and a cute coffee shop.

Perth and Lanark County

Have you heard about the Lanark Highlands or the town of Perth ? Make sure you don’t overlook this beautiful region of Ontario as it’s one of the best Ontario road trips. If you’re looking for a getaway in Ontario that offers peace and tranquility, delicious food, welcoming festivals, and something a little out of the ordinary, it’s time to spend a weekend in Perth and Lanark County.

Go for a stroll around Stewart Park, browse the quaint downtown shops, and admire the old architecture around town. You can also try standup paddleboarding or kayaking down the river. If you love hiking, the trails at the Perth Wildlife Reserve Conservation Area are a must.

I spent two nights at the  Best Western Plus Perth Parkside Inn & Spa , which is one of the most popular hotels in Perth, Ontario. Nestled on the edge of Stewart Park, your hotel room may have one of the prettiest views of the town.

Cornwall, Ontario

Have you visited the city of Cornwall yet? It’s Ontario’s easternmost city that sits on the Canada-USA border, located on the St. Lawrence River. It’s the last major stop in eastern Ontario before you enter Quebec. If you’re on a road trip of Ontario, you might consider stopping in Cornwall for a day before continuing on your way.

Cornwall is home to hiking, biking, and kayaking trails at Guindon Park, Gray’s Creek Conservation Area, and of course, the Waterfront Trail. Some of the best attractions include the Lost Villages Museum (a wild story in Canadian history that I’d never heard before!), a spacious city park, and the ruins of a Roman Catholic church that remind me more of Europe than Canada.

Cornwall is full of so many hidden gems that will make you wonder why you never thought to visit before now. Here’s a lovely two bedroom apartment that you can call home during your time in Cornwall.

Best Road Trips in Ontario: Ottawa

Ottawa is an amazing all-season destination in Ontario, whether you decide to plan your summer road trip to Ottawa or visit Ottawa in the winter . There are festivals all year long (Winterlude is perfect for the winter, and you don’t want to miss the famous Tulip Festival in the spring). From ice skating on the Rideau Canal to touring the Parliament buildings, there are so many things that you can only do in Ottawa that make it such a worthwhile destination.

While not entirely in Ottawa, Gatineau Park is the National Capital Region’s conservation park. Most of it is located across the Ottawa River in Gatineau, Quebec. Of course, Gatineau, while not in Ontario, is another awesome place to check out on your road trip to Ottawa.

If you’re a museum buff, you will adore Ottawa. There are seven national museums in total, including the National Gallery of Canada, the Canadian Museum of History and the Canada Aviation and Space Museum. For a spacious and upscale hotel near many museums and the downtown core, rest your head at the Lord Elgin Hotel .

Road Trip Ontario: Cute Towns Near Ottawa

If you’re planning an Ontario road trip of eastern Ontario, there are so many adorable and charming towns near Ottawa that you need to visit. These are some of the cutest small towns that I’ve ever seen. Most of them have picturesque downtown streets where you can walk all over town. Some of them are right on the Rideau Canal, adding even more pretty viewpoints.

While I’ve already mentioned Perth, you can easily road trip to these towns from Perth or Ottawa, depending on the direction you’re travelling from. Drive to Smith’s Falls, Merrickville, Kemptville, Carleton Place and Almonte. Westport is another cute town that’s just south of Perth that you can include on this road trip, too.

I spent the night at the Merrickville Guest Suites , which was a cozy and cute apartment in the middle of town. From there, I was able to walk all over town and it also includes a complimentary parking space (a must for any Ontario road trips!).

Ontario Road Trips: Sudbury

Sudbury might be a four hour drive from Toronto, but it’s well worth the distance. This is one of the best road trips in Ontario for a great combination of city living and wilderness. Sudbury is known as the “Nickel City” for its mining history and the “City of Lakes” for its 330 lakes. In fact, Sudbury has more lakes than any other city in Canada.

Sudbury is the perfect place for outdoor adventures, visiting unique and popular tourist attractions, and wandering around a bustling city centre. It’s northern Ontario’s largest city and there’s no shortage of awesome attractions and activities. Check out Science North, the “Big Nickel” and Dynamic Earth.

For hiking trails and waterfalls, make some room in your itinerary for Lake Laurentian Conservation Area, Kivi Park, Onaping Falls and the A.Y. Jackson Lookout, and Bell Park / Ramsay Lake. Public art lovers will adore Sudbury – it’s home to Canada’s largest mural, as well as numerous other colorful works of art throughout downtown Sudbury. I stayed at the Hilton Garden Inn Sudbury , which was the perfect place to relax after days of adventures.

Killarney and Killarney Provincial Park

If you continue for another hour beyond Sudbury, you’ll discover one of the most beautiful places go to go hiking in Ontario. Killarney Provincial Park is home to the “Crack” trail , which leads to a stunning panoramic lookout point. Killarney Provincial Park has some less challenging trails across the rocks of the Canadian shield, as well as some lengthier trails that take several days to hike.

The town of Killarney is very small and there are only a couple of places to stay in town that are destinations in themselves. It’s one of the prettiest scenic drives through the grounds of the provincial park to reach Killarney. We spent a couple of nights at the Killarney Mountain Lodge where you could dine at the on-site restaurant or relax in the Muskoka chairs by the waterfront.

I suggest making a larger road trip journey where you visit Sudbury for a few days, and then venture down to Killarney Provincial Park for a couple more days. You can even extend your trip for longer and drive to my next suggested place for a road trip in Ontario…Manitoulin Island!

Manitoulin Island

Manitoulin Island is one of the most amazing road trips in Ontario, whether you drive there or take the ferry from Tobermory. It’s the largest freshwater island in the world, situated on the shores of Georgian Bay and Lake Huron.

Take a tour with the Great Spirit Circle Trail for an amazing Annishanabe cultural experience, learning more about the customs and legends of the local First Nations Peoples. Visitors are also welcome to the annual Pow Wows hosted by each First Nation community on Manitoulin Island.

Manitoulin Island is a paradise for nature lovers and outdoor adventurers. You must hike the Cup and Saucer Trail, and a stop at Bridal Veil Falls is a must. It’s even possible on some nights to see the northern lights from Manitoulin Island, as it’s one of the best dark sky preserves in Ontario . Stay at the Manitoulin Inn for a comfortable home base between your adventures.

Best Road Trips in Ontario: Thunder Bay

Thunder Bay is one of the most amazing places to visit in Canada, a dynamic city surrounded by rugged wilderness. While it’s quite the drive from southern Ontario, it’s well worth the journey (or you may wish to fly to Thunder Bay and rent a car when you arrive , like I did!). There are so many things to do in Thunder Bay, both in and around the city, especially if you love exploring the great outdoors.

Perched on the shores of Lake Superior, the world’s largest freshwater lake, the city of Thunder Bay is the gateway to some of Canada’s most epic landscapes. Northwestern Ontario is home to 150,000 lakes and an ancient Boreal forest with over 44 billion trees. Go paddling or venture across the vast Canadian Shield on foot.

Though it’s wonderful to explore the shops and restaurants in downtown Thunder Bay, the main attractions lie in the nature on the outskirts of the city. Explore Sleeping Giant Provincial Park (hike to the Top of the Giant), walk across Canada’s longest suspension bridge at Eagle Canyon Adventures, witness a vast gorge at Ouimet Canyon Provincial Park, and see the “Niagara Falls of the North”, Kakabeka Falls.

Spend the night in Thunder Bay at The Courthouse Hotel , a 40-room boutique hotel in the former Superior Court of Justice building, dating back to 1924.

Lauren is the full-time travel blogger and content creator behind Justin Plus Lauren. She started Justin Plus Lauren in 2013 and has travelled to 50+ countries around the world. Lauren is an expert on vegan travel as one of the very first vegan travel bloggers. She also focuses on outdoor adventure travel, eco and sustainable travel, and creating amazing travel itineraries for cities and small towns.

33 Best Weekend Getaways in Ontario, Canada

Written By: ThePlanetD Team

Updated On: February 19, 2024

Ontario has some of Canada’s best cities and towns in Canada from Toronto to Paris (named one of the prettiest little towns in Canada) and it is filled with awesome outdoor adventures. In a nutshell, Ontario has it all . So if traveling abroad isn’t in the cards, you can still take a break to enjoy these best weekend getaways in Ontario.

Ontario offers year-round options for a fun filled weekend trip, and there is plenty of beauty and culture to be found. If you are looking for the best weekend getaways in Ontario, rest assured you have many places to choose from. And we’ve rounded them up all in one place for you.

Table of Contents

Weekend Getaways in Ontario

We’ll cover all the best weekend getaways – splitting the guide into outdoor, urban, family, and resort getaways. So let’s start with the top weekend getaways in Ontario to enjoy one of these lovely city breaks in Ontario..

Cities and Towns

Ready to support local businesses, explore charming towns, and treat yourself to retail therapy? These are the best cities and towns for weekend getaways in Ontario. From small towns to major cities, we’ve got a fantastic range to suit everyone’s interests.

Tiny Paris was named the “Prettiest little town in Canada,” and it is certainly is one of the best small towns to visit for a fun Ontario weekend getaway. The town is famed for its stone buildings, cafes, and window shopping culture.

We may be slightly biased with this one because Paris is our home town but it is lovely here. Hiking and biking trails, great dining, spas, and scenery surround us.

Apart from shopping and enjoying cafes, you can enjoy some activities like river tubing, fly fishing, or kayaking on the Grand River. Paris is located at the junction of the Nith Rivers and Grand River, so it offers lots of outdoor entertainment including hiking on the Grand Trail following the Grand River from the portage area at the dam.

For a weekend getaway for couples, book a room at the Arlington Hotel and take a stroll through the streets. Pick up a coffee at the Paris Bakery and browse the many boutique shops and the shops at Wincey Mills. Book a massage at the Ah Spa in the afternoon and then book dinner at Stillwaters.

Accommodation in Paris – The best accommodation in Paris is the  Arlington Hotel . This central hotel was established in 1851 and offers historical, chic accommodation in the heart of Paris, just opposite the Grand River. The luxury boutique hotel has a restaurant, tranquil updated rooms, and unique decor. Read more: 27 Things to do in Paris Ontario – A Local’s Guide

Ottawa is an all-around golden child and it is our absolute favorite city in Ontario. We’ve been many times and it’s impossible to round up everything in one short paragraph of things to do. It has an abundance of museums , historical sites, landmarks, nature, an exciting food scene, and some great restaurants.

Ottawa is a big city with a small-town feel bringing an extra depth of character to the place. It is easily accessed and makes for a rewarding weekend break for anyone looking for an Ontario city experience. Check out the best Ottawa tours here.

Ottawa is home to thousands of  things to do , including the Canadian National Gallery, Canadian War Museum, and Parliament Hill. Visitors can fly straight into Ottawa or drive there from major cities like Montreal (which Ottawa is a two-hour drive from). The capital of Canada is perfect for winter, autumn , spring , or summer adventures .

Best accommodation option in Ottawa – You will have hundreds of accommodation options in Ottawa.  Fairmont Chateau Laurier  is particularly luxurious if you want to splash out a little. Read more: 33 Things to do in Ottawa – A Complete Guide to the City

3. Prince Edward County

Prince Edward, aka Prince Edward County, is technically an island. The island community is known for its local artists, beautiful beaches, and wineries. And, just a two-hour drive from Toronto , Prince Edward County is one of the most charming places for a weekend getaway.

While you eat, drink, and be merry, keep your eyes out for Amelia’s Garden Restaurant. The fine dining restaurant prides itself on organic, seasonal produce from nearby farms. It even offers accommodation packages too, so you can stay and dine. If you are traveling with children, Cottage Country Factory is more suitable than fine dining.

Just a short drive from Prince Edward County, this famed sweet shop is the ultimate place for children to pick up their favorite candy. And with so many outdoor  activities on Prince Edward , their sugar rush may come in handy.

Best accommodation option in Prince Edward County – There are plenty of great options, but  Angeline’s Inn  is the quirkiest. The historic inn has bold, colorful decor and warm service.

4. Niagara on the Lake

Niagara-on-the-Lake is a brilliant small-town getaway for both summer and winter. Filled with historic charm, this town in Ontario is packed with culture, from post-1812 war buildings to world-class theater productions. Read more: 15 Amazing Things to do in Niagara on the Lake – Canada

Many people liken visiting Niagara-on-the-Lake to stepping back into the 19th century as they ride horse carts, sip wine and eat at a fine dining restaurant before relaxing in a luxury hotel. As a weekend destination, it sure packs a punch.

When you aren’t visiting historical attractions, squeeze in a winery or two. Niagara-on-the-Lake is well-known for its successful wineries, and you can experience its produce with wine tasting. Wine tasting tours can be booked here.

Niagara-on-the-Lake is an hour’s drive from  Hamilton  and an hour and a half’s drive from Toronto. This half day wine tour takes you to sample wines at Pillitteri Estates, Inniskillin, and Konzelmann Estates followed by free time to enjoy Niagara on the Lake.

Best accommodation option in Niagara-on-the-Lake – The Pillar and Post Inn and Spa  – is a Niagara institution renovated in a historic building. It has full modern amenities with indoor and outdoor pools, and exotic hot springs pool at 100 Fountain Spa.

• The Pillar and Post Inn and Spa  – is a Niagara on the Lake institution renovated in a historic building. It has full modern amenities with indoor and outdoor pools, and exotic hot springs pool at 100 Fountain Spa.
• The Prince of Wales  – is another favourite set in a Victorian landmark downtown. With a pool, fitness center, and make sure to book at an appointment at the Secret Garden Spa, it is a perfect choice for an elegant vacation in Niagara on the Lake.
• There are plenty of luxurious AirBnBs in Niagara on the Lake.  This one is a lovely cottage  that is two blocks from downtown’s main street.
• Read our full guide – Where to Stay in Niagara Falls – Best Hotels

5. Niagara Falls Getaway

Niagara-on-the-Lake and Niagara Falls are as different as salt and pepper. A Niagara Falls getaway features the falls, however, the town has a much livelier atmosphere, with tourist attractions like wax museums and casinos.

You can get up close and personal in Journey Behind the Falls or the Hornblower, enjoy the excitement of Clifton Hill, nightlife and attractions of the Fallsview area and make sure to ride the awesome Ferris wheel.

If you are looking for fun a weekend getaway in Ontario with a bit of adventure, nightlife, and excitement, Niagara Falls is an excellent idea. Plus, there is  romance to be found if you know where to look .

A Niagara Falls Getaway is our favorite Ontario weekend getaway because we always find something new to do. In the past 25 years we have visited Niagara Falls for at least one weekend. And we always love it!

Niagara Falls is an hour’s drive from Hamilton and an hour and a half from Toronto. Read more: The Best Things to do in Niagara Falls

Best accommodation option in Niagara Falls – This town offers many great accommodation options, many of which provide waterfall views.  Niagara Falls Marriott Fallsview Hotel & Spa  is a good one, and we’ll attach a link here if you’d like to take a look. Read more: Where to Stay in Niagara Falls – Best Areas

6. Grand Bend

Grand Bend is another small-town gem, perfect for a getaway. My family had a cottage here growing up and my parents retired here for about 10 years, so we know Grand Bend well. Plus, I spent a season at Huron Country Playhouse singing in one of their shows. This place is rockin’!

Set on the shores of Lake Huron, Grand Bend town lives and breathes anything water-related. You could go swimming, kayaking, or mix things up with a parasailing experience. Its beach is always packed with people and activities. Check out: 25 Best Places to Camp in Ontario, Canada

There’s also Pinery Provincial Park to enjoy, which we will chat about further down. The town is approximately two hours from Hamilton and one hour from Windsor and is ideally situated for a relaxing getaway. You can book this guided day tour to Pinery Provincial Park on the shores of Lake Huron and then explore the beach town of Grand Bend.

Best accommodation option in Grand Bend – Amber Hotel is the best accommodation option and is an excellent mid-range choice. You can check the property out on TripAdvisor here.

Toronto has the best city scene in Ontario and we called it home for 20 years. Its cityscape is recognized worldwide – from the CN Tower to its famed Lake Ontario waterfront. Check out all the top activities in Toronto and book a day tour here. You can choose from the CN Tower to Toronto Islands, Casa Loma and more. Browse tours here.

If you want one of Ontario’s most iconic weekend getaways, Toronto is easily one of the top three. As the province’s metropolis capital, it has stacks and stacks of things to do and is a breeze to access by flight.

You can check out amazing restaurants with multi-course meals, historic buildings like the parliament buildings, and delicious local craft beer at bars across the city. Plus, there are museums like the Royal Ontario Museum (ROM) and the Railway Museum. Get your entry ticket here to the ROM and other Toronto Museums.

Check out more at The Best Things to Do in Toronto – A Guide to the Top Attractions

Best accommodation option in Toronto – There are many fantastic accommodation options in Toronto, but the Ritz Carlton is our favorite. It’s close to Roy Thompson Hall and the Princess of Wales Theatre, The CN Tower, the Entertainment District, and Harbourfront.

If you are looking for more affordable accommodations, The Chelsea is located at Dundas Square and is central to everything. Plus, it’s where we spent our honeymoon night 25 years ago! Don’t worry, it’s been renovated since. Read more: Where to Stay in Toronto – A Guide to the Best Neighborhoods

8. Kingston

The former capital of Canada is an amazing weekend trip. This small city on Lake Ontario, The Rideau Canal, and the St. Lawrence River is filled with historic charm, fine dining, and nightlife. Located just a three-hour drive from Toronto or two hours and twenty minutes by train.

Kingston is one of the few weekend getaways linked to a major city with public transport in Ontario – so jot it down if you don’t drive or don’t want to rent a car. The city is nicknamed the ‘limestone city’ after its signature limestone architecture. It is a stunning place to just explore on foot.

We’ve planned a full ultimate  itinerary for Kingston . So follow that to make your own weekend getaway perfect. You can also book Kingston day tours here . Choose from Thousand Island Cruise, helicopter flights or a haunted walking tour. More details here.

As a quick note, make sure to visit Kingston Penitentiary, Agnes Etherington Art Centre, Bellevue House National Historic Site, and Murney Tower National Historic Site of Canada. Read more: Things to do in Kingston – Don’t Miss This Ontario Gem

Best accommodation option in Kingston – There are lots of options when looking for places to stay in Kingston.  Delta Hotels by Marriott Kingston Waterfront  is beautiful, though. The three-star hotel features an indoor rooftop pool and an onsite restaurant.

For a romantic weekend, we recommend Secret Garden Inn , a beautiful boutique manor home is located within walking distance from the waterfront, Princess Street, and many of Kingston’s top attractions it is a great choice to stay and the breakfasts are delicious.  

Elora is another of our favorite small towns and is best known for its 19th-century architecture and striking limestone buildings. The town was founded by Roman Catholic missionaries, and its name translates as ‘sun ray’ or ‘god is my light’ in Hebrew.

Today it remains enticing for visitors wanting a romantic getaway to a pretty, small town. It is just an hour and a half from Toronto, so it is a straightforward destination to reach by car. Plus, my Great aunt lives there too!

Elora is also located next to Elora Gorge – a dramatic gorge cutting through cliffs with the Grand River running through the middle. You can admire the gorge from multiple viewpoints. If you feel nice and inspired afterward, go tubing or kayaking on a different section of the Grand River. Read more: 25 Day Trips from Toronto to Escape the City

Best accommodation option in Elora – The best accommodation option is  Elora Mill Hotel & Spa. The historic hotel is set in an old riverside mill and features rooms with a fireplaces, a full service spa, gym, and yoga facilities.

Wine Region Weekend Getaways in Ontario

There’s something special about visiting wine regions; wine tasting at top-rated vineyards is a romantic way to spend a weekend. These are the best wine regions to visit in Ontario for a weekend getaway. Get ready to sample some stunning wines.

10. Lake Erie North Shore

Did you know that Lake Erie and Pelee Island are at the same latitude as Tuscany in Italy and Bordeaux in France? The Southern Ontario region is the oldest wine-producing area in Canada. The first winery opened in 1866. Since then, the region has been carving an ever-growing name for itself in the international wine industry.

Some of the best wineries are Pelee Island Winery Pavillion, Copper’s Hawk Vineyards, Viewpointe Estate Winery, and Mastronardi Estate Winery. Sprucewood Shores Estate Winery is also Ontario’s only beachfront winery – a unique selling point, you’ll agree. The variety of vineyards makes Lake Erie North Shore a wonderful weekend trip. Depending on which area you visit in the region, you can either drive a short distance from London or a few hours from Hamilton or Toronto.

Plus, this was my stomping grounds as a teenager. I’d wash my car every Sunday morning and cruise the beaches of Lake Eerie with my friends Lorri and Kathy for hours on end. Dave and I still head out for Sunday drives to this part of Ontario on a regular basis.

Best accommodation option in Lake Erie North Shore – The region covers such a span of towns and different hotels that this is a hard choice.  Retro Suites Hotel  is located in the center of Chatham, just a short walk from the Chatham Downtown Mall and Milner Heritage Home. Guests get complimentary breakfast on weekdays, a gym pass, and a golf course pass. Plus, you are just a ten-minute drive from Early Acres Estate Winery.

11. The Niagara Peninsula

When you think of Niagara Getaways, your mind very likely jumps to Niagara Falls. Draw your mind away from images of crashing waterfalls. Instead, picture a glass of Riesling, pinot noir, or even a chardonnay if you wish. The Niagara Peninsula is home to over fifty wineries and is one of Ontario’s most prolific wine-producing regions.

Some of the best wineries are Inniskillin, Peller Estates, Calamus Estate Winery, King’s Court Estate Winery, and Flat Rock Cellars. If you want a  romantic getaway , book a wine tour and a relaxing hotel for you and your significant other. The best part about the Niagara Peninsula is that it’s on the doorstep of major cities like Hamilton and Mississauga. It is one of the most accessible weekend getaways in Ontario.

Best accommodation option in the Niagara Peninsula – There are plenty of luxurious AirBnBs in Niagara on the Lake.  This one is a lovely cottage  that is two blocks from downtown’s main street of Niagara on teh Lake.

For a modest budget, A Vineyard View Bed and Breakfast  ticks many impressive boxes. The Victorian B&B has a stunning communal patio with vineyard views, and select bedrooms overlook private views of the unique scenery.

12. Hamilton’s Region of the Niagara Escarpment

The Niagara Escarpment is a long slope, and it is famed as Niagara Falls falls over one part of the escarpment. It actually spreads throughout Canada and the United States. Still, for the purpose of this section, we will be concentrating specifically on Hamilton’s section.

Hamilton’s section of the escarpment is a fantastic Ontario weekend getaway. The region is prime for fruit growing, making it ideal for wine production – plus, it lies in the accessible shadow of many major cities.

Best accommodation option in Niagara Escarpment (Hamilton Area) – You can make a base in Burlington to explore the Hamilton portion of the Niagara Escarpment and we recommend The Pearl Hotel & Spa is Burlington’s latest luxury escape that is perfect for pampering. Located directly on the waterfront with beautiful views of Lake Ontario, 

Resort Weekend Getaways in Ontario

A resort getaway ticks a box that not much else can. These are the best resorts for weekend getaways in Ontario.

13. Sir Sam’s Inn and Spa

For the ultimate romantic getaway in Ontario, consider booking a couples retreat. Sir Sam’s Inn and Spa is a relaxing weekend getaway in a dramatic stone-and-timber mansion. The resort features every luxury – from an indoor water spa to an outdoor heated pool with Eagle Lake views to snowmobile parking and private fireplaces. There is also a fine dining restaurant located directly onsite.

And when you aren’t enjoying outdoor activities around  Haliburton , you can enjoy complimentary spa access. Sir Sam’s is a three and a half hour’s drive from Ottawa, so well-placed for a weekend of luxury.

You can enjoy hiking and boating in the summer and snowmobiling and cross country skiing in the winter. Haliburton is a beautiful small town in Ontario and you can visit our friend Dana’s gorgeous photography studio to pick up stunning metal prints of the Haliburton region. Book your weekend getaway here

14. Fern Resort

Fern Resort in Orillia is a beautiful family-friendly resort but also romantic for couples too to choose from in Ontario. The resort sits next to Lake Couchiching, and its all-inclusive package includes complimentary meals and activities. You can explore the local area or enjoy onsite entertainment like cross-country skiing, giant chess, a spa, or ice skating.

Fern Resort is just under a two-hour drive from Toronto. It is ideal for those wanting an action-packed, family-friendly resort experience. See more details here .

15. Couples Resort

Looking for a romantic Ontario weekend getaway? Couples Resort is a beautiful resort, only open to couples and situated overlooking Galeairy Lake in Algonquin Park. The all-inclusive package includes breakfast, five-course dinners, activities like horse riding and ice skating, and access to facilities like a saltwater swimming pool.

Being in the middle of nature there are plenty of hiking trails, paddling and canoe options in the summer with cross-country skiing and snowshoeing in the winter. We visited this pre-pandemic and see that it is now a bit rundown now. Hopefully, by the 2023 season they will have given it a refresh because we loved its tranquil setting that was perfect for a romantic getaway.

The resort is three hours from Ottawa or nearly four hours from Toronto. If you want somewhere surrounded by Canadian wilderness, Couples Resort is the one. See more availabiltiy and rates on TripAdvisor

16. Deerhurst Resort

Deerhurst is an upscale resort with a lot to offer. The Ontario resort is tucked up near the Hidden Valley Highlands. Come winter, it is an ideal base for a ski holiday. For the rest of the year, though, Deerhurst Resort stands out for its two golf courses, hot tub, spa, and outdoor activities. It is also one of the most romantic places in winter.

Deerhurst is a flexible weekend getaway; it can be considered family-friendly or one of the best romantic weekend getaways – it’s up to you to decide which. Deerhurst is a two-and-a-half-hour drive from Toronto, so nice and feasible as a weekend base. Check out details here.

• Deerhurst Resort in Huntsville is 2 hours and 45 minutes drive  from Toronto
• You can book a weekend stay at  Deerhurst Resort.

17. Cedar Grove Lodge

We loved our romantic escape to Cedar Grove Lodge in Huntsville. What could be more romantic than booking your own log cabin in the woods? Snuggling up by the fire in the snowy landscape is one of the most romantic places in Ontario. There are plenty of things to do in Huntsville to keep you busy as well. Things to do in Muskoka in Winter

Cedar Grove Lodge is located on 150 feet of lakefront property on  Peninsula Lake. Each room has its own wood-burning fireplace and this romantic retreat has all-inclusive packages where you can eat three meals a day in the dining room. Check availability and rates for Cedar Grove on TripAdvisor

18. Severn Lodge

Severn Lodge is a lovely lakeside resort on the shores of Glouster Pool in Port Severn Township. The property dates back to the 1800s and still has traditional features like beamed ceilings and historical decor. Severn Lodge’s facilities are as extra as it gets, including a heated pool, onsite beach, private dock, and patios or balconies overlooking the lake.

Severn Lodge is just forty minutes by car from Barrie and two hours from Toronto. It is the ideal weekend getaway for anyone wanting a traditional, historical base for a few days. Make reservations here.

18. Idlewyld Inn and Spa

Idlewyld Inn and Spa is the number one destination for an elegant weekend getaway in Western Ontaro. Located in London Ontario Idelwyld Inn and Spa is set in a classic mansion, the property features a full-service spa, onsite restaurant, courtyard garden, and stained glass windows throughout. It is perfect for anyone wanting an inspiring property for a relaxing city break. Get ready to step back in time.

Apart from its facilities, Idlewyld Inn and Spa also offers an all-inclusive package with a complimentary breakfast. And located in the heart of London, it is a deluxe base for a city break. See more details here.

19. Langdon Hall – Cambridge

Another complete Romantic Ontario getaway is Langdon Hall in Cambridge. My friend Kelly had her wedding here and we had the chance to experience the spa and luxury fireplace suites. This hotel is one of the most romantic places in Ontario.

This property has the distinction of being recognized by Relais & Châteaux for a standard of excellence. The Five Diamond dining experience is the perfect romantic evening out and its spa packages include a half-day retreat of a Swedish massage, facials, and manicure and pedicure. Add a glass of champagne and lunch and you have a full day of luxury with the one you love. There is a huge hot tub, saunas, and steam rooms to chill out in for the afternoon. 

One thing we are very thrilled to share is that Langdon Hall has partnered with The Keep Refillery to become the first hotel in Ontario to have an in-house refillery. They have overhauled their in-room amenities to a more sustainable model by refilling in-room essentials such as shampoo, conditioner, body wash, body lotion, shower steams and bath bombs. This move will keep 2000 bottles out of landfills this year. Compare prices on TripAdvisor

Part 4 – Family Getaways in Ontario

Ontario is fantastic for family fun. The whole state is excellent for families that love adventure and bonding time, with lots of green spaces, children’s attractions, and great accommodation options. But some places are even more exciting and special for families than others. We’ve picked these extra-special places for our next section; these are the best family weekend getaways in Ontario.

20. Blue Mountain Ski Resort

Blue Mountain Resort is one of the most adventurous and romantic getaways. We put this under family Ontario getaways because there is so much to do. But Dave and I have had many romantic getaways here on our own in Blue Mountain. So, it has the best of both worlds!

Blue Mountain resort and village is a year round retreat and, in winter, offers skiing and snowboarding galore. When you aren’t zipping down the slopes, you can be in the spa soaking in an outdoor hot tub or enjoying one of the great restaurants onsite.

Blue Mountain Village, is just over a two-hour drive from Toronto and is  full of things to do . It is a short, pleasant drive easily factored into a weekend trip. And Blue Mountain Resort is perfect for any avid snow sports lovers.

In the Winter, we love to stay at the  Blue Mountain Inn  Slopeside.  It is located directly at our favourite black diamond runs.

In the summer our choices are the gorgeous  Westin Trillium House ,  located at Millpond overlooking Blue Mountain Village it’s set a little away from the crowds of the village. But we are also fans of the Mosaic Boutique Suites smack dab in the center of the Blue Mountains. Its year-round heated outdoor pool and hot tub is to die for.

21. Great Wolf Lodge Water Park Resort

Great Wolf Lodge is a magical weekend getaway. The four-star property is amazing for anyone who wants a fun-filled, action-packed holiday in Ontario. Great Wolf Lodge has an all-inclusive package with unlimited access to its onsite indoor water park, 24/7 entertainment, and ultra-speed wifi.

Situated in Niagara Falls, Great Wolf Lodge is an ideal base to visit Canada’s most famed waterfall and make the most of a fantastic all-inclusive package. It is only a short drive from cities like Hamilton and Toronto. I have stayed here before but for some reason I couldn’t find a picture. We had the good fortune of staying at Great Wolf Lodge when I worked for YTV and had a blast in its waterpark. Check prices and reservations here.

22. Collingwood

Collingwood is an action-packed weekend getaway for families. In the summer, you can explore limestone caves, and in the ski season, you can get all your family zipping down the slopes. Collingwood has plenty of indoor attractions for rainy days, including the Collingwood Museum, Butter Gallery, and multiple theaters. There are also more challenging adventures for older children, like ATV adventure tours, snorkeling tours, and off-roading. Collingwood is just under two hours from Toronto by car, too, so families will find it feasible to reach.

Best accommodation option in Collingwood

The best accommodation option in Collingwood is The Living Water Resrot and Spa . It is walking distance to historic downtown collingwood, it has an indoor pool plus indoor and outdoor hot tubs and Collingwood’s only waterfront restaurant. A more affordable option is the Days in by Wyndham.

23. Hamilton

Hamilton needs little introduction, and the major city in Southern Ontario has already been mentioned in this guide as a reference point. However, Hamilton is also an ideal family weekend getaway. One of the coolest activities in Hamilton is the exotic super car driving experience. Get behind the wheel of your dream car on a test drive adventure.

The city is smaller than Toronto and packed with kid-friendly activities like Spencer Smith Park, lots of short waterfall walks, and the beloved Theodore Tugboat tours. You can easily head to rural sections for outdoor activities and are just a short drive from Niagara Falls. Read more: The Best Things to do in Hamilton, Ontario

Best accommodation option in Hamilton – The best family-friendly option in Hamilton is Staybridge Suites Hamilton Downtown

24. Peterborough

Peterborough sits just off the Otonabee River and perfectly treads the line between urban and residential suburban. You’ll find it much cheaper to visit Peterborough than Toronto, and the friendly downtown atmosphere and price tags are perfect for families covering lots of heads.

On a weekend getaway, you’ll have any attractions to tick off – including the Canadian Canoe Museum, Peterborough Museum, a rock climbing center, and Riverview Park. The attractions are just a short walk apart – handy for those little legs. Toronto is just an hour and twenty minutes away by car as well.

Best accommodation option in Peterborough – Peterborough’s best accommodation for families is Holiday Inn Peterborough-Waterfront. The property has a policy where children 19 and under stay free with an adult, and kids 12 and under eat free.

25. Sauble Beach

Sauble Beach is a fantastic destination for a family weekend getaway. The quaint town is a tiny beach community on the shores of Lake Huron. Its calm, shallow waters are perfect for younger children to learn to swim and older children to hone their water skills.

After you’ve spent a day swimming, Ascent Aerial Park is a great family attraction. You can tackle a high ropes course for some quality bonding. There’s also Sauble Falls Provincial Park to hike and fish in. Plus, Toronto is just under a three-hour drive away.

Best accommodation option in Sauble Beach – It’s a tough call, but Sauble Beach’s best accommodation is Bel-Air Motel & Cottages. The property is family-orientated, with a playground, fire pits, basketball hoops, and BBQ facilities to enjoy.

Part 5 – Outdoor Weekend Getaways in Ontario

Do you want a weekend getaway where you can enjoy rolling hills and wildlife? Are you looking to getaway from the hustle and bustle of life? Ontario has amazing national parks and provincial parks that are open all year long. So even if it is winter, put on your parka, cozy up by the fire or head out for some cross country skiing and snowshoeing. In summer, take advantage of all the pristine hiking and biking trails and some of the best wildlife spotting on earth.

26. Algonquin Provincial Park

Algonquin Provincial Park is heaven on Earth for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. The park is over a whopping 1.9 million acres of natural beauty and full of marked hiking trails and campsites – making it an accessible, beginner-friendly outdoor getaway in Ontario. Read more: Most Beautiful National Parks in Canada

Its famous trails, like Lookout Trail and Centennial Ridges Trail, are perfect scenic hikes to squeeze into a weekend itinerary. Think of minimal time commitment but extremely high reward. In winter, there are dog sled tours and snow activities. And you have attractions like the Algonquin Logging Museum and Algonquin Art Centre all year round if you fancy a bit of culture.

Algonquin Park is just a three-hour drive from Ottawa and three and a half hours from Toronto, so it is easily reached from a major city. If you don’t have your own car, you can arrange a car rental from one of the many car rental companies in the cities and drive yourself to the park.

Best accommodation option in Algonquin Provincial Park – When you visit on a weekend getaway, make sure to book a campsite in advance for that ultimate wilderness experience. But, if you want a bit of extra luxury,  Killarney Lodge  is an all-inclusive park hotel with rustic lakeside cabins – well worth a look at.

27. Sandbanks Provincial Park

Sandbanks Provincial Park offers some of the best sand beaches in all of Ontario. It is one of the best weekend getaways for a stunning coastline and pristine white beaches, and it has plenty of hiking trails under its belt. You could spend weeks in Sandbanks Park, although a day or two will have to do.

The best things to do in Sandbanks Park are visiting Dunes Beach and Outlet Beach, but Cedar Sands Nature trail is a short walk worth an itinerary spot. This trail follows the Outlet River and has beautiful marshland viewpoints.

Sandbanks is two hours and twenty minutes by car from Toronto, so it is easy to reach if you rent a car. The route is scenic too, and you’ll skirt along the north shores of Lake Ontario and its little lakeside towns.

Best accommodation option in Sandbanks – There is a high-quality handful of fantastic accommodation options in Sandbanks Park. The best is  Log Cabin Point Cottage Resort.  The 1830s log cabin has traditional features like a wood-burning stove and a claw foot tub. And you can even rent a boat or bike for your stay.

28. Pinery Provincial Park

Pinery Park is a wonderful weekend getaway in Ontario. The beautiful coastal park is located on the shores of Lake Huron and is over 6,000 acres in size.

It is home to gorgeous beaches and a protected forest that houses numerous endangered flora and fauna species. Opened to the public in 1959, Pinery Park is a much-loved park in Southern Ontario and a well-known outdoor getaway.

It has a 14km biking trail called the Savanna Trail that cyclists will love. There are also water activities like fishing and canoeing on offer. Pinery Park is a compact area with many activities and things to do, making it an ideal weekend trip. It is also a fifty-minute drive from London and just over two hours from Hamilton – extremely feasible driving distances.

Best accommodation option – Most accommodation options are scattered around Pinery Park, just outside the park boundaries.  Port Franks Getaway  is one of the closest and best options. A luxury, adults-only wellness retreat, it offers homely facilities just a stone’s throw from the park. In the summer months the Pinery is one of the best places for camping in Ontario.

29. French River Provincial Park

French River Provincial Park is another of our fabulous Ontario weekend getaways. The park is mainly situated around the French River (as you may have guessed from the name), which was the first-ever Canadian Heritage River. This is a weekend trip best appreciated by canoe or kayak.

There is over 105 km of canoe route to enjoy and explore. The trail stretches from Lake Nipissing to Georgian Bay, incorporating lakes, rapids, and gorges for the ultimate fun-filled weekend.

You can also use riverside hiking trails like the Recollet Falls Trail. The park is just a fifty-minute drive from the city of Sudbury and a three-and-a-half-hour drive from Toronto, so a fantastic weekend getaway if you love water activities.

Don’t have a car? Book this day trip from Toronto to hike one of the most beautiful hiking trails in Ontario, The Crack. You will also visit the suspension bridge at French River Provincial Park.

Best accommodation option in French River Provincial Park

The best accommodation option in French River Park is  Great Escape Cabins. The one or two-bedroom cabins are set right next to the river and make for a scenic base when visiting the park.

30. Batchawana Bay Provincial Park

Batchawana Bay Provincial Park is a fantastic weekend getaway and is a 418-acre lakeside park with gorgeous beaches. You’ll have lots to do, whether you enjoy water activities on Lake Superior, relax on the beaches, or get active on the local trails.

Batchawana Bay Park is a fifty-minute drive from Sault Ste Marie, a small city with fantastic mountain biking trails. If you love mountain biking, check out the Berm Baby Berm or Bee Sting trails.

Batchawan Bay is about an 8 hour drive from Toronto so this is best for a long weekend getaway in Ontario

Best accommodation option in Batchawana Bay – If you fancy going RV camping, Wild Rose RV Park is a fantastic seasonal option. If you prefer resorts, Sunset Shores Resort offers cabins just outside the park. Check rates and availaibity

31. Bruce Peninsula National Park

Bruce Peninsula Park is over 30,000 acres in size and is an absolute haven for outdoor enthusiasts. You’ll be well entertained, from swimming and bouldering to backcountry camping opportunities.

The park straddles the famed Niagara Escarpment and Georgian Bay coastline to enjoy – making Bruce Peninsula Park one of the most diverse places for a weekend getaway.

The best thing to do in the park is to visit its natural attractions, like Flowerpot Island, Little Cove, and Fathom Five National Marine Park.

You can book a day trip from Toronto to Tobermory. This tour includes a guide and driver that takes you to visit the lighthouse and hiking to see the beautiful cliffs of Georgian Bay. You’ll visit The Grotto, Indian Head Cove and Marr Lake.

Bruce Peninsula Park is surrounded by little towns, including Tobermory (read our  guide on things to do in Tobermory ). From Toronto, it is a three-and-a-half-hour drive. It’s ideal for a weekend trip and is surrounded by towns with urban amenities.

Best accommodation option in Bruce Peninsula – One of the best ways to book accommodation in Tobermory is to book vacation rentals. You can look for accommodation on TripAdvisor – Tobermory . This  beautiful waterfront cottage  is 5km from downtown Tobermory. It offers kayaking and beautiful views for sunset.

Camping is one of the best options for accommodation in Tobermory in the summer.  Tobermory Village Campground  or  Cyprus Lake Campground . The campground has many facilities, including showers, flush toilets, and drinkable water. It is an excellent base for an outdoor adventure.

32. Pukaskwa National Park

Pukaskwa National Park is a 460-acre park on the shores of Lake Superior. It is the perfect destination for beginner-friendly water activities, hiking, and camping – especially if you want to get away from the busier parks around Toronto.

Visitors should definitely make time to hike the Bimose Kinoomagewnan Trail. This trail is essential to indigenous Anishinaabe culture and is an excellent mix of cultural and outdoor activity. Read more: The Wild Coastal Trail of Pukaskwa National Park

Like Bruce Peninsula Park, Pukaskwa is quite far from major cities. It will take around eleven hours to reach Pukaskwa from Winnipeg or Toronto. Pukaskwa is perfect for road trip lovers .

Best accommodation option in Pukaskwa NP – The best accommodation in Pukaskwa is  Pic River Guest Suite . The property is the closest option to the park unless you want to camp and is beautifully situated overlooking the river. You also have the choice to purchase yoga and canoeing packages.

For more Ontario inspiration, you can check out our guides on the  best places to visit  and  things to do  across the province. We also have a special guide on the  best things to do  when visiting Ontario in winter and another on the province’s  best hiking trails .

It’s easy to see that you won’t be short of weekend getaways in Ontario. Whether you want charming towns with great restaurants, family-friendly destinations with entertaining attractions, or remote wilderness getaways, Ontario has an option for you.

It is safe to say that we love Ontario, and we bet you will too when you try these weekend getaways. Have a fantastic experience.

• The Greatest Things to do in Winter in Ontario
• Romantic Ontario Getaways – The Best Couples resorts and Destinations
• Top 15 Ontario Hiking Trails
• 22 Most Epic and Thrilling Things to do in Ontario
• Best Places to See the Northern Lights in Ontario
• 9 VALENTINE’S DAY GETAWAYS IN ONTARIO, CANADA
• 35 Iconic Places to Visit in Ontario, Canada

Travel Planning Resources

Looking to book your next trip? Why not use these resources that are tried and tested by yours truly.

Flights: Start planning your trip by finding the best flight deals on Skyscanner

Book your Hotel: Find the best prices on hotels with these two providers. If you are located in Europe use Booking.com and if you are anywhere else use TripAdvisor

Find Apartment Rentals: You will find the cheapest prices on apartment rentals with VRBO . 

Travel Insurance: Don't leave home without it. Here is what we recommend:

• Allianz - Occasional Travelers.
• Medjet - Global air medical transport and travel security.

Need more help planning your trip? Make sure to check out our Resources Page where we highlight all the great companies that we trust when we are traveling.

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Categories > Guides and Tips

Top 13 Day Trips to Take from Ontario

Niagara falls , algonquin provincial park , prince edward county , sandbanks provincial park, muskoka lakes farm & winery .

• Canada's Wonderland 

Mount St. Louis Moonstone 

Blue mountain ski resort.

• Elora Gorge Conservation Area​

1000 Islands

Point pelee national park, long point provincial park, the village of st. jacobs.

Alright, who said you’ve got to part with your hard-earned cash for a fancy vacation on the other side of the world? Sometimes the best getaways are just a quick jaunt from home.

The beautiful province of Ontario is home to so many awesome destinations that you can explore in a day’s trip. It’s bursting at the seams with natural beauty, cultural diversity, and heaps of history.

So welcome to our list of day trip ideas in Ontario! Keep on reading, and let’s find your next one-day wonderland.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Niagara Falls (@niagarafalls)

Website: https://niagarafalls.ca/  

When we’re talking about day trips from Ontario, there’s honestly no way we can’t mention Niagara Falls. Seriously, sights like this can make you feel all sorts of things.

Let me tell you about this little agency that’ll make your Niagara Falls day trip even more seamless: See Sight Tours . They have it all figured out; they’ll whisk you away from Ontario and take care of all the nitty-gritty (we’re talking transportation and tickets).

You can also hop on board a Hornblower Niagara Cruise and get right up close to the falls. Like, close enough to feel the spray on your face. It’s a real thrill, and you’re bound to end up with some damn impressive photos.

And when you’ve had your fill of water action, it’s time to explore the area. There’s a little old place called Clifton Hill that’s packed with all sorts of family-friendly shenanigans.

Local tip: For the best experience, try to visit on a weekday to avoid the weekend crowds.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Algonquin Provincial Park (@algonquin_pp)

Website: http://www.ontarioparks.com/  

Address: Ontario 60, Ontario

Contact details: +1 705-633-5572

Operating hours:

• Open year-round

Algonquin Provincial Park is Ontario’s oldest and largest provincial park , spanning over a whopping 7,653 square kilometres. So, grab your hiking boots and your sense of adventure, ’cause there’s so much to do here.

There are over 15 marked trails of varying difficulty. The Lookout Trail is particularly epic, with a panorama that’ll have you reaching for your camera faster than you can say “Instagram-worthy”.

But hold on, it’s not just about burning off that morning’s bacon butty. Algonquin is famous for its wildlife too, so keep an eye out for the locals—moose, deer, and plenty of bird species call this place home.

Once you’re all tired out from exploring, drop by Algonquin Visitor Center. It’s a treasure trove of information on the park’s natural and cultural history.

Local tip: If you can, grab a map of Algonquin Provincial Park before your visit. It’ll help you plan your day better, and you won’t miss out on any highlights!

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Prince Edward County (@visitthecounty)

Website:   https://www.visitthecounty.com/  

Contact details: https://www.visitthecounty.com/contact-us  

Prince Edward County is a haven of all the things you’d like for a perfect getaway: wineries, food galore, and stunning landscapes. It has over 40 wineries to explore, each with their own unique vibe.

Most of them actually welcome daytrippers for wine tastings! Taste-test your way through the county and discover that perfect bottle—the one that’ll make all your friends jealous.

We can’t guarantee you won’t leave with a trunk full of new wine favourites, but hey, who could blame you? Anyway, you can also visit the lovely Bloomfield or hit Wellington for a fantastic meal.

But wait, there’s more! PEC also boasts some fabulous beaches that’ll have you questioning whether or not you accidentally slipped into paradise.

Local tip: Plan your winery visits ahead of time and leave room in your schedule to visit a lavender farm or a brewery—there’s tons to explore!

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Sandbanks Provincial Park (@sandbankspp)

Website: http://www.ontarioparks.com/park/sandbanks  

Address: 3004 County Rd 12, Picton, ON

Contact details: +1 613-393-3319

• Monday to Sunday – 8 AM to 10 PM

Nestled in—you guessed it—Prince Edward County, Sandbanks is famous for its ridiculously large sandy beaches and towering sand dunes. Honestly, with the waters and long stretches of sandy beaches, you will ask yourself if you’re still in Ontario.

It’s one of the largest freshwater baymouth sandbar systems in the world, which is a mouthful to say. But all you need to know is that it’s an ideal spot for beach lovers like you and me.

Beyond soaking up the sun, Sandbanks has some cool trails for those who like to wander. Check out the Woodlands Trail or the Cedar Sands Trail to stretch your legs and explore the dunes and diverse vegetation that call this place home.

Once you’ve had your fill of sun, sand, and scenery, why not fire up the BBQ? Sandbanks offers picnic areas and BBQ facilities, and there’s nothing quite like catching one of those fiery sunsets while enjoying a nice, relaxing meal.

Local tip: Sandbanks can get busy during summer weekends, so plan to arrive early in the day to secure a good parking spot.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Muskoka Lakes Farm & Winery (@johnstons_cranberries)

Website:   http://www.cranberry.ca/  

Address: 1074 Cranberry Rd, Bala, ON  

Contact details: +1 705-762-3203

• Monday to Sunday – 10 AM to 5 PM

Muskoka Lakes Winery is tucked away in Bala, also known as the Cranberry Capital of Ontario. And yep, you guessed it, it’s all ’bout them cranberries!

No trip to Muskoka Lakes Winery would be complete without sampling their signature cranberry wines. Best part? You get to sip the good stuff while gazing out at the lush cranberry marsh. 

This place offers tours that get you right into the action. Talk about hands-on experience! Harvest season (from late September to October) even allows you to get your feet wet in a cranberry plunge. 

Oh, and did I mention that this place isn’t just a winery, it’s a farm? A farm that offers beautiful trails for hiking, giving you a chance to burn off that wine-induced euphoria, and enjoy the diverse flora and fauna. 

Local tip: Muskoka Lakes Winery is a seasonal business, so do check their opening dates and times before planning your trip.

Canada’s Wonderland 

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Canada's Wonderland (@canadaswonderland)

Website:   https://www.canadaswonderland.com/  

Address: 1 Canada’s Wonderland Drive, Vaughan, ON

Contact details: +1 905-832-8131

• Sunday to Thursday – 10 AM to 8 PM
• Friday and Saturday – 10 AM to 10 PM

Canada’s Wonderland is an epic theme park located in Vaughan, Ontario—just a hop, skip, and a jump from Toronto. This place has more roller coasters, games, and excitement than you can shake a stick at.

We’re talking over 200 attractions—17 roller coasters alone! Whether you’re into crazy plunges that hurtle you in a free fall, or you’ve got a thing for twists, turns, and loops, Canada’s Wonderland ain’t playin’. 

Don’t forget about Behemoth and Leviathan, two of the tallest and fastest coasters in North America. You’ll be screaming your heart out before you know it!

Wonderland’s got you covered with a water park too: Splash Works (opens typically from June to September). And when it comes to food, well, Wonderland’s got more options than you can chew (pun intended). 

Local tip: Go on a weekday if you can, especially early in the season or after the school rush. The lines will be shorter, giving you more time to experience everything this amazing park has to offer.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Mount St. Louis Moonstone (@mtstlouismoonstone)

Website: https://www.mountstlouis.com/  

Address: 24 Mt St Louis Rd W, Coldwater, ON

Contact details: +1 705-835-2112

• Monday to Friday – 9 AM to 4 PM

Love it or hate it, there’s one thing winter is good for: strapping on your skis or snowboard and hitting the slopes. Especially at Mount St. Louis Moonstone, the “I can’t believe it’s not in the Alps” ski resort in Ontario.

This resort has runs for all skill levels, from bunny hills for beginners to challenging black diamonds for the hardcore. They’ve even got one of the largest terrain parks in Ontario for all those freestyle junkies itching to practise their tricks or flips.

And, with 36 slopes, traffic jams are a thing of the past—unless you count running into a rogue snowman. This place is more than just a great run, though.

It’s got rentals if you’re not keen to lug your gear around and instructors if you want to level up your ski or board game. And when you’re ready to thaw out for a bit, cosy up by the fireplace in the chalet with a cup of hot cocoa.

Local tip: And, parents, if you’re worried about keeping the little ones entertained while you carve up the snow, don’t fret. Mount St. Louis Moonstone offers ski lessons for kids and various events organised throughout the winter season.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Blue Mountain Resort (@bluemtnresort)

Website: https://www.bluemountain.ca/  

Address: The Blue Mountains, ON

Contact details: +1 833-583-2583

• Monday to Sunday – 9 AM to 10 PM

Nestled along the shores of Georgian Bay and just a two-hour drive from Toronto, Blue Mountain Ski Resort has it all. It has 42 ski and snowboard trails, and they even offer night skiing.

This resort has got your back, no matter the season. I’m talkin’ golf, hiking, zip-lining, scenic gondola rides, and even a mountain coaster they call the Ridge Runner.

If a slower pace is more your cup of tea, the Village at Blue Mountain has heaps of stuff to do too! You can meander through the quaint streets, indulge in some retail therapy, and dip into the tasty food scene.

You can even check out the on-site spa or relax at the resort beach. Who says you can’t have the best of both worlds—action-packed fun and some well-earned downtime?

Local tip: Everybody loves a good deal, so keep your eyes peeled for their various packages throughout the year. You might just score the perfect day trip at a sweet price!

Elora Gorge Conservation Area ​

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Parth Vira (@random.parth)

Website:   https://www.grandriver.ca/en/outdoor-recreation/Elora-Gorge.aspx  

Address: 7400 Wellington County Rd 21, Elora, ON

Contact details: +1 519-846-9742

• Monday to Sunday – 8 AM to 9 PM

Perfect for a day trip, Elora Gorge Conservation Area is where Mother Nature struts her stuff big time. Just under two hours from Toronto and you’re greeted with an epic, 22-metre-high gorge carpeted by forests and by the meandering Grand River.

This place is famous for tubing and kayaking, where you get to surf the river down the stunning gorge itself. No joke, these are rapid-filled rides that’ll tickle your wild side and give you a legit splash-tastic time.

Feeling more “earthbound” for the day? Don your walking shoes ’cause the Elora Gorge Trail is not to be missed. 

It’s a killer 5km walk with killer views of the limestone cliffs and cascading waterfalls. Pack a picnic, find a cliff-top spot, and chow down with a view. 

Local tip: Early birds catch the worm (or rather, the calm waters and quiet trails), so try to arrive in the morning to avoid the crowds.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Town of Gananoque (@travel1000islands)

Website: https://visit1000islands.com/  

Address: Leeds and Grenville United Counties, ON

Contact details: +1 315-482-2520

• Winter Season (October 10th – December 31st) and (January 1st – May 16th):

Tuesday to Saturday – 10 AM to 12 PM, 1 PM to 4 PM

• Spring Season (May 17th – June 24th):

Monday to Sunday – 9 AM to 12 PM, 1 PM to 5 PM 

• Summer Season (June 28th – September 3rd):

Monday to Sunday – 8 AM to 7 PM

• Fall Season (September 7th – October 9th):

Monday to Sunday – 9 AM to 12:30 PM, 1 PM to 5 PM

Now, one of the best things to do here in 1000 islands (besides gawking at the gorgeous scenery, of course) is to hop on a boat tour. It’s kinda a must-do, y’know? 

There are loads of different tours to choose from too. You could go on an international tour and check out both the Canadian and the US sides, which is super cool. 

And let me tell you, these islands have plenty of history and culture to dig into as well. For instance, the Boldt Castle on Heart Island is straight out of a fancy romance novel, with its tragic love story and all. 

And then there’s Singer Castle on Dark Island, which boasts great architecture and an even greater past. Of course, no trip to the 1000 islands would be complete without trying some locally made food—so make sure to bring your appetite along! 

Local tip: Don’t miss out on the loaded fries at the local chip trucks scattered nearby, trust me, they are a delight!

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Point Pelee National Park (@pointpeleenationalparkcanada)

Website: https://parks.canada.ca/pelee  

Address: 1118 Point Pelee Dr, Leamington, ON

Contact details: +1 519-322-2365

• Monday to Friday – 6 AM to 10 PM

Point Pelee National Park is the southernmost tip of mainland Canada, which is pretty neat if you ask me. You should definitely hit up the famous Tip, a land spit that reaches right into Lake Erie. 

You’ll feel like you’re standing on the edge of the world, fo’ real! And let’s talk about activities, ’cause there are plenty! 

For all the birdwatching lovers out there, Point Pelee is the place to be, especially during spring and fall migrations. In fact, it’s a hotspot for all sorts of critters—butterflies, frogs, and so much more!

But hey, even if you’re not a wildlife enthusiast, the park’s got your back with its lush forests, sandy beaches, and of course, amazing hiking and canoeing opportunities. 

Oh, and make sure to swing by the park’s Visitor Centre, where you can get your hands on all sorts of info about the park, its history, and the really cool stuff it has. 

Local tip: If you’re visiting the park between May and September, don’t miss the Freighter Canoe Rides – it’s a unique and engaging way to explore the marsh with local guides!

View this post on Instagram A post shared by blogTO (@blogto)

Website: https://www.ontarioparks.com/park/longpoint  

Address: 350 Erie Blvd, Port Rowan, ON

Contact details: +1 519-586-2133

• Monday to Sunday – Open 24 hours

Long Point Provincial Park is not your typical run-of-the-mill park; it’s a huge sand spit on Lake Erie, and guess what? It’s also a UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve.

Literally thousands of bird species pass through here, making it a paradise for birdwatchers. Now, putting birds aside, let’s talk about beaches.

The park boasts some seriously stunning beachfront. We’re talking about sandy beaches that stretch on for miles and miles, perfect for a day of lounging, swimming, or some quality sandcastle building!

And hey, if you’re feeling adventurous, you can also rent a canoe or kayak and explore the nearby wetlands—pretty cool, eh? And before your day at Long Point comes to an end, make sure to soak in those epic sunsets—they’re really something special!

Local tip: Make sure to explore the Long Point Lighthouse for a sweet photo-op and a little taste of nautical history.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Stroll Walking Tours | Waterloo Region (@strollwalkingtours)

Website: http://www.stjacobsvillage.com/  

St. Jacobs is this delightful little spot, often overlooked, but believe me, it’s a hidden gem. The main street of the village is brimming with glorious, unique shops .

And talk about variety; they’ve got quaint restaurants, bakeries, and delightful treats to indulge in. Let’s not forget the Farmer’s Market with abundant local produce; it’s a wholesome experience.

And then there’s the history and culture side of things. The entire village is an embodiment of the simplicity and tradition of the Mennonite community.

You’ll find the St. Jacobs Mennonite story an intriguing tale told in their very own interpretive centre. A horse-drawn trolley tour? Heck yeah, they have that too, to give you a taste of good ol’ farming life.

Local tip: Try their famous apple fritters at the Farmer’s market; they are out of this world good!

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• Destinations

25 Best Places to Visit in Ontario, Canada

Last Updated By VI on March 15, 2024 in Things to Do in Canada & Places to Visit

The capital of Canada, Ottawa is located in southeast Ontario, near the U.S. border and neighboring city of Montreal. Situated along the shimmering Ottawa River, the city boasts marvelous Victorian architecture and world-renowned museums that include the National Gallery of Canada. During the summer, the park-lined Rideau Canal is overflowing with boats; during the winter however, visitors will find plenty of ice-skaters taking advantage of the frozen conditions. One of Ottawa’s top attractions is its legislature complex, better known as Parliament Hill. Located on Crown land, The Hill is a magnificent display of Gothic revival architecture. From Winterlude to the Canadian Tulip Festival to Canada Day, Ottawa is a vibrant city with much to celebrate.

Niagara Falls

Niagara Falls is a regional municipality of Southeastern Ontario, Canada. The city serves as a central port along the Niagara River, opposite its United States counterpart, New York. The city also overlooks the Horseshoe, sometimes referred to as the Canadian Falls; a crescent-shaped cataract measuring 177 feet in height. This portion of the falls carries approximately nine times the amount of water that the United States side does. The two countries are connected by several bridges that include the Lewiston-Queenston Bridge, the Whirlpool Rapids Bridge, and the Rainbow Bridge. Niagara Falls offers a myriad of fascinating attractions, such as Queen Victoria Park, the Skylon Tower, and Niagara Parks Botanical Gardens.

Hamilton is an industrialized port city located along the west end of Lake Ontario in the Canadian province of Ontario. It boasts impressive dramatic architecture, gorgeous parks, and several magnificent historical sites. This includes the Royal Botanical Gardens, the HMCS Haida National Historic Site, Dunduen Castle and the Canadian Warplane Heritage Museum. Popular attractions include the African Lion Safari Park, the Art Gallery of Hamilton, the Canadian Football Hall of Fame, and the Cathedral of Christ the King. It is home to several also home charming and vibrant neighborhoods as well as several natural areas such as Sam Lawrence Park, Bayfront Park, and Webster’s Falls.

Kingston is a small city located halfway between Montreal and Toronto, situated along the stunning shores of Lake Ontario. Established in 1673, this charming, old city originally served as a French trading post. Today, it is known for its rich history and culture and acts as the gateway to the UNESCO-designated Rideau Canal and the legendary 1000 Islands. Often referred to as the Limestone City, downtown Kingston is home to several of its extraordinary limestone historic buildings such as Hendry House, Westbourne Terrace, and Parkview House. The city also features several art galleries, museums, and historical sites like Fort Henry, used during the War of 1812.

Thunder Bay

Thunder Bay is a waterfront city situated along one of North America’s Great Lakes – Lake Superior, in the northwestern region of Ontario, Canada. Thunder Bay offers an exciting variety of active and urban lifestyles. The city is set against a marvelous backdrop of lush boreal forest, pristine rivers and lakes, the rugged Canadian Shield, and countless trail systems. Visitors will enjoy breathtakingly serene surroundings with opportunities for outdoor recreation at every turn. Some of the fun and exciting activities to enjoy around Thunder Bay include fishing, hiking, mountain-biking, boating, jet-skiing, and horseback riding. The Terry Fox Monument, Fort Williams Historical Park, and Hillcrest Park, are just a few of the city’s top attractions for visitors to explore.

Burlington is situated between Niagara Falls and Toronto along the edge of Lake Ontario. A magnificent city that often gets overlooked, Burlington boasts an exquisite gastronomy, gorgeous gardens, a thriving art scene, historic architecture, and several famed natural areas. The latter includes the Niagara Encarpment, a UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve, the Mount Nemo Conservation Area, and Spencer Smith Park. It is home to several unique attractions including the Brant Street Pier, a nearly 450-foot, S-shaped pier extending out over Lake Ontario and the legendary Discovery Landing, a 14,200-square-foot landmark building. It boasts an observatory outfitted with grand, floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the picturesque Royal Centennial Pond.

Good to know: Best Time to Visit Toronto

Georgian Bay

Often considered the sixth Great Lake, Georgian Bay boasts 1,242 miles of gorgeous shoreline and is home to over 30,000 islands. The area consists of majestic towering cliffs, windswept pines, and endless beaches with crystal clear blue waters creating a serene beauty. It is a freshwater playground for anglers, boaters, and kayakers during the summer and a white wonderland for snowshoers, snowmobilers, and skiers in the winter. Georgian Bay’s 30,000 islands and 32 historic lighthouses makes up the biggest freshest archipelago in the world as well as Georgian Bay Islands National Park. This area can be explore by canoe using a local outfitter such as White Squall.

Greater Sudbury

Greater Sudbury is located in the heart of Northeast Ontario. Known as the city of lakes, its home to 330 lakes including its largest, Lake Wanapitei. As the largest municipality in the providence, Greater Sudbury offers urban comforts, world-renowned attractions, and natural areas. The latter includes Lake Laurentian Conservation Area, Fairbank Provincial Park, Wanapitei Provincial Park, Fielding Bird Sanctuary, and Kivi Park. These Parks are popular for a wide variety of outdoor recreation adventures like hiking, biking, cross-country skiing, camping, bird-watching, swimming, and boating. Several interactive museums can be found throughout the city such as science museums Science North and Dynamic Earth and history museums Anderson Farm Museum and the Northern Ontario Railroad Museum.

Algonquin Provincial Park

Algonquin Provincial Park consists of nearly 3,000 square miles situated between the Ottawa River and Georgian Bay in Ontario. Its home to rocky ridges, maple hills, thousands of lakes, and over 750 miles of rivers and streams as well as various plant and wildlife like wolves, moose, deer, and beaver. The park provides visitors with an array of outdoor activities year-round including camping, fishing, horseback riding, mountain biking, cross-country skiing, and day hiking. There are 19 interpretive trails throughout the park ranging in length and difficulty from 0.62 to 7.21 miles. Each trail is equipped with a trail guide and is designed to introduce visitors to a particular aspect of Algonquin’s history of ecology.

Bruce Peninsula National Park

Located on a section of UNESCO’s Niagara Escarpment World Biosphere Reserve, Bruce Peninsula National Park boasts 97 square miles of beautiful and varied landscape. Dramatic cliff sides dotted with ancient cedar trees jut out above the magnificent turquoise waters of Georgian Bay. The park is home to large expanses of mixed-wood forests, clear-water lakes, diverse wetlands, limestone coasts, and vibrant orchids. It is the traditional home for the people of the Saugeen Ojibway First Nations, and serves as a protected preserve for over 200 species of birds, amphibians, mammals both large and small and a few rare reptiles. The park is a captivating outdoor playground providing year-round activities including hiking, scrambling, swimming, camping, and cross-country skiing.

Lake Erie is one part of the five Great Lakes located in North America. It is nestled along the International Boundary between the United States and Canada with its northern shore occupying the Canadian province of Ontario. The lake is believed to have anywhere from 1,400 to 8,000 shipwrecks making a popular destination for divers. However, there are only 270 confirmed shipwreck locations to date. Several public parks surround the lake including UNESCO’s Biosphere Reserve, Long Point Provincial Park and Sand Hill Park. Lake Erie is also home to several diverse islands. The popular, Pelee Island boasts a unique and dynamic ecosystem with rare plant and wildlife, it’s reachable via a ferry from Leamington, Ontario.

Lake Ontario

Bounded by New York on the south and Ontario on the north, Lake Ontario is the most easterly and smallest of the Great Lakes. Many of Ontario’s most popular cities are located along the lakes northern and western shores, this includes Hamilton and its capital city Toronto. It is the home of several islands, the Toronto islands as well as islands, Wolfe, Association, Amherst, Simcoe, Waupoos, Big, and Garden situated in Ontario. Several lighthouses are scattered along its shores such as Gibraltar Point and Presqu’ile. The lake features over 100 beaches and houses the second oldest shipwreck of the Great Lakes.

London is located in southwestern Ontario just a two-hour drive away from Niagara Falls and Toronto as well as the United Stated border at Michigan and New York. It is surrounded by the largest freshwater lakes in the world and is known as the Forest City with more than 200 parks. It is home to Budweiser Gardens, a premier sports entertainment center, The Grand Theatre, Canada’s oldest professional theatre, Museum London, and The London Children’s Museum. The city features a thriving arts scene, charming famers markets, and a vibrant nightlife. It is also known for its rich historic roots, impressive architecture, and diverse culture including 175 churches, cathedrals, temples, synagogues, and mosques.

Mississauga

The sixth largest city in Canada, Mississauga is a corporate capital and home to the largest airport in the country, Toronto Pearson International servicing 32 million passengers a day. Ranked as the safest city in the nation for eight years straight, Mississauga is home to several family-oriented attractions and activities with an emphasis on the arts, outdoor recreation, history, and sports. The city features over 480 parks and more than 20 primary trail systems including a waterfront trail that runs from the Quebec border to Niagara-on-the-Lake. Visitors can also explore several of Mississauga’s charming historic villages like Port Credit situated along the Lake Ontario shoreline.

A regional municipality of Central Ontario, Canada, Muskoka has a variety of fun things for visitors to see and do year-round. Muskoka has several pristine, shimmering lakes that are ideal for a day of boating and water recreation; visitors will be able to enjoy fishing, tubing, wakeboarding, and waterskiing. The lakes are also perfect for boat tours and dinner cruises, paddle boarding, canoeing, kayaking, and swimming. The area’s beautiful, natural surroundings can be explored by ATVs, mountain bike trails, zip line, aerial parks, and picturesque hiking trails. Santa’s Village Family Entertainment Park has been one of Muskoka’s top attractions for more than 60 years now, and is a must visit when in the province of Ontario.

Niagara-on-the-Lake

Niagara-on-the-Lake is a charming waterfront town situated in the southern part of Ontario, Canada, along Lake Ontario’s picturesque shores. The small town is known for its summer Shaw Festival and award-winning wineries. The tree-lined, flower-filled old town features several 19th-century buildings, many of them located along Queen Street. Visitors will find several points of interest to explore around town, including the Fort George National Historic Site of Canada, Queenston Heights Park, and the McFarland House. Lake Ontario is the perfect playground for boating, jet-skiing, wakeboarding, waterskiing, fishing, paddle-boarding, canoeing, kayaking, and so much more. The town’s visitors will be just a short 15-minute drive from one of Canada’s biggest attractions, Horseshoe Falls – Niagara Falls.

Peterborough

The perfect city for outdoor enthusiasts, Peterborough is situated along the beautiful Otonabee River in Central Ontario, Canada. The river offers an idyllic setting for enjoying water activities such as jet-skiing, boating, fishing, waterskiing, paddle-boarding, wakeboarding, swimming, and tubing. Apart from river activities, visitors can partake in a variety of outdoor adventures that include spelunking through glacier formed caves, hiking the area’s picturesque trails, or golfing at one of the city’s championship courses. Peterborough has many attractions and points of interest to explore, including Petroglyphs Provincial Park, the Peterborough Lift Lock, Riverview Park and Zoo, and Canadian Canoe Museum. Visitors will appreciate the city’s plentiful wilderness areas, sparkling waters, and lush forests.

Sault Ste. Marie

Sault Ste. Marie is city situated along St. Marys River, Lake Superior, and the United States border in Ontario, Canada. The city is famous for its 19th-century Sault Ste. Marie Canal – a National Historic Site that’s also part of the country’s national park system. The Canadian Bushplane Heritage Centre has a vast collection of flight simulators and aircraft for visitors to explore. Some of the city’s other attractions include the Art Gallery of Algoma, the Sault Ste. Marie Museum, Hiawatha Highlands, and Kinsmen Park. Sault Ste. Marie is perfect for outdoor recreation all year-round, including hiking, kayaking, ice climbing, mountain biking, zip-lining, and rock climbing.

The Blue Mountains

The Blue Mountains is a small, charming town situated along the shimmering Nottawasaga Bay in Ontario, Canada. From families to groups of friends to couples seeking a romantic getaway, this little town has the perfect activity or adventure for everyone. Thrill-seekers will appreciate the town’s bike park and rugged mountain-biking trails during the summer, and freshly powdered ski slopes in the winter. The bay offers up plenty of opportunity for fun water activities, such as sailing tours, boating, fishing, paddle-boarding, kayaking, and jet-skiing. Visitors will enjoy unique shopping experiences, sensational waterfront dining, world-class attractions, and breathtaking scenery around every corner.

Thousand Islands

Thousand Islands is a North American Archipelago, or group of islands, located in the St. Lawrence River near Ontario, Canada. Comprised of over 1,800 unique islands, Thousand Islands offers plenty of opportunity for outdoor recreation, and provides an idyllic setting for a peaceful vacation. Located along the United States and Canada borders, the region features rich history, unique culture, and endless, picturesque shorelines. Visitors will have several fun and interesting activities to choose from, including guided boat tours, fishing tours, wakeboarding, and jet-skiing. Visitors will have the chance to explore some of the region’s more popular attractions, like the Kingston Waterfront, Brockville Railway Tunnel, and Fort Henry National Historic Site.

More info: Where to Stay in Toronto

Tobermory is a charming harbor village located on the Bruce Peninsula of Canada’s Ontario province. The land around Tobermory is renowned for its marvelous natural setting, truly a photographer’s paradise. The region features miles of lush forest with tall cedars and pines, majestic cliffs, and beautiful turquoise waters. Tobermory proudly serves as the home to North America’s greatest concentration of native orchid flowers. Visitors hiking along the area’s magnificent trail system may be lucky enough to catch a glimpse of a gorgeous Showy Lady’s Slipper Orchid, or rare Calypso Orchid. The village is situated near Fathom Five National Marine Park, the site of 19th-century lighthouses, the Flowerpot Island sea stacks, and a number of shipwreck dive sites.

Wasaga Beach

Recognized as one of Ontario, Canada’s, premier tourist destinations, Wasaga Beach is a 14-kilometer beach that stretches along the shimmering Nottawasaga Bay. Visitors will enjoy a pristine, white sand beach, clean warm waters, and breathtaking, panoramic mountain views. Wasaga Beach offers a tremendous variety of excellent restaurant and accommodation options. One of the area’s best kept secrets is the recreation trail system. The picturesque trails are perfect for snowmobiling, cross-country skiing, mountain-biking, and hiking. Wasaga Beach also provides plenty of opportunity for exciting water activities, such as boating, jet-skiing, fishing, tubing, wakeboarding, kayaking, and waterskiing. Thrill seekers can go skydiving over the beach, giving them the chance to admire its beauty from a one-of-a-kind perspective.

An International Gateway between the United States of America and Canada, Windsor is a city in Ontario that offers fascinating cultural and historical landmarks, unparalleled waterfront gardens and parks, and world-class entertainment. Visitors will enjoy a city that is committed to being one of the most vibrant and creative destinations, where artistic expression is encouraged, and cultural diversity is celebrated. Whether visitors are interested in artistic and intellectual experiences, or some of the best recreational and heritage sites around, the city has it all. Some top attractions include Windsor Sculpture Park, the Art Gallery of Windsor, and the Chimczuk Museum.

• 2. Niagara Falls
• 3. Hamilton
• 4. Kingston
• 5. Thunder Bay
• 6. Burlington
• 7. Casa Loma
• 8. Georgian Bay
• 9. Greater Sudbury
• 10. Algonquin Provincial Park
• 11. Bruce Peninsula National Park
• 12. Lake Erie
• 13. Lake Ontario
• 15. Mississauga
• 16. Muskoka
• 17. Niagara-on-the-Lake
• 18. Peterborough
• 19. Sault Ste. Marie
• 20. The Blue Mountains
• 21. Thousand Islands
• 22. Toronto
• 23. Tobermory
• 24. Wasaga Beach
• 25. Windsor

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Beach Destinations: 15 Most Awesome Beach Picnics

18 Best Beaches Near Toronto

21 Best Places to See the Northern Lights in Canada

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Home » North America » Canada » 15 AMAZING Day Trips to Take from Ontario | 2024 Guide

15 AMAZING Day Trips to Take from Ontario | 2024 Guide

Ontario is the most populous province in Canada, home to both the country’s capital city of Ottawa and the dynamic city of Toronto. There is so much to do in this beautiful province, that you could easily spend months exploring the area.

It’s also conveniently situated on the Northern border of the USA, bordering a bunch of the Great Lakes and America’s Minnesota, Michigan, and the New York States. Depending on where you’re based, you might just be able to take a day trip across the border too!

Day trips are a great option for all types of travelers because they can give one a broader feel of the place you’re visiting. Not only will guided tours be super educational, but they’re also a great opportunity to reconnect with your family on a fun adventure. If you live in the area, full or half-day trips in Ontario are a cheaper alternative to a full-blown vacation.

We’re going to take a look at some of the local trips you can take in Ontario!

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Getting Around Ontario, and Beyond

Half-day trips in ontario, full-day trips in ontario, final thoughts on day trips from ontario.

No visit to Canada is complete without exploring Ontario and all it has to offer. Before we dive into some of the best Ontario day trips, let’s take a closer look at how to get around the area.

Like any large province or state, the biggest cities in Ontario (Toronto and Ottawa) have reliable, affordable, and safe public transportation. A lot of the inner cities also have buses, subways, streetcars, and ferries. 

In Toronto and Ottawa, these modes of transport connect metropolitan and suburban districts with extensive routes. A one-way ticket can cost around CAD$3.25, while a day pass will set you back CAD$13.50.

If you’re looking to move between cities, or explore Ontario’s roads-less-taken, you’ll have to consider other options. When you’re familiar with the area and venturing out on day trips without a tour guide, renting a car is the most convenient option. As with all car rentals, make sure you get insurance before you leave the lot!

The big Ontario cities are also all connected by railway, which is a great way to get from A to B when traveling across the province. VIA Rail Canada services the whole of Ontario, Ontario Northland services the north of the province, and GO Train connects Hamilton to Oshawa.

Not everyone has the time to explore far afield, sometimes a half day trip is all you can fit in. These half-day trips in Ontario will get you out of the city and seeing some of the best bits of the province.

For example, there’s plenty of things to do in Hamilton and it’s super close to visit!

Cobourg Beach 

Cobourg is a quaint lakeside town just west of Victoria Park on Lake Ontario, only an hour outside the city of Toronto by rail. Cherished by locals as a weekend haven, Cobourg Beach offers a blend of sand, grassland, and a picturesque boardwalk. 

Cobourg Beach is in fact two beaches. Most tours will take you straight to the main beach, also known as Victoria Park Beach, but there is so much more to explore along these sandy shores. 

The beach is designed for family fun, offering lots of amenities including bathrooms, restaurants, and splash pads for all types of visitors. They even host volleyball and sandcastle-building events throughout the year!

If you’re after a more secluded beach experience, the lesser-known West Beach is a local favorite. This beach has a more natural appeal and is less busy. An afternoon here can include relaxing on the beach, reading a good book, and swimming in the clean lake water. Bring along a picnic, because, unlike the main beach, West Beach has no food or beverage amenities.

When a single day trip in Ontario’s lake district isn’t enough, why not extend your visit and spend a few nights in this tiny house on the beach in Brighton near Cobourg Beach? It’s only a short drive from the lakeside town and has exquisite lake views.

Rattlesnake Point 

Located just an hour’s drive out of Toronto, Rattlesnake Point is a beautiful location for outdoor enthusiasts looking for a respite from the city. The mountainous woodlands are a top location for rock climbing, hiking, and trail running. 

Conveniently, there are no rattlesnakes in the area – yes, we were surprised by this too. In fact, the park gets its name from the snake-like path that cuts through the Niagara Escarpment.

Take note that reservations are required before you visit, so be sure to reserve your visit with Conservation Halton Parks.

Whether you go to the top of the Buffalo Crag lookout point or watch the eagles soaring overhead from beneath the thousand-year-old cedar trees, the landscape here is nothing short of extraordinary.

For something different, and if you have some extra time on your way back home, try out an oil painting class in nearby Erin Mills.

Packing in a day trip from Ontario is a lot more rewarding than taking half-day trips. By heading out before the sun rises, and leaving at the end of the day, you can easily pack in a full day of adventure and fun with your loved ones. These aren’t narrowed down for tourists alone, Ontario locals also love to explore their home!

Niagara-on-the-Lake

If you’re a first-time visitor to Ontario, Niagara falls will be at the top of your day trip list but there’s more to see in this lush region than just the waterfall. Only a two-hour drive from Toronto, Niagara-on-the-Lake is a small town near Niagara Falls which is packed with historic sites, galleries, parks, and restaurants.

The town has a heritage square which is well worth a visit, but it’s the surrounding Winelands that we are most excited about. Niagara Wine County is a quick 20-minute drive from the waterfall.

It’s the Napa Valley of Canada, and for good reason. The area is as lush and beautiful, and is home to over 20 top wineries that follow tons of different wine-making techniques. Some of our favorite wineries for a day trip in Ontario include the Jackson Triggs Winery, Pillitteri Estate, Stratus Wineries, and the Peller Estates Winery.

Niagara Wine County offers year-round wine tasting activities, but the most beautiful time to visit is definitely during summer and fall. Can you think of anything better than some bucket-list sightseeing combined with a wine tasting? 

Suggested trips: Winery Tour with Tastings & Lunch

Niagara Falls 

I have no doubt you’ve already planned your trip to Niagara Falls. Hell, I wouldn’t even be surprised if your entire Ontario trip is based around this visit. It’s one of the top places to visit in Toronto .

Over eight million visitors visit Niagara Falls State Park each year. While it’s not the biggest waterfall in the world, it certainly is one of the most impressive, with the world’s highest flow rate of about 700,000 gallons of water moving every second.

The waterfall lies on the border between Canada and the USA, and offers awe-inspiring scenery in every direction. If it’s the waterfall you’re most interested in (naturally), we recommend taking a boat cruise or a scenic helicopter ride over the waterfall (if you have the budget for it). 

If you’re feeling very adventurous, why not zipline to the falls ? Alternatively, a visit to the Skylon Tower observation deck offers equally breathtaking views, without having to get soaking wet.

However, there is so much more to see than first meets the eye. The adventure-packed area is a top location for hiking and also offers a bunch of family-friendly activities, entertainment, and dining. 

Suggested trips: Niagara Falls Day Trip and Day and Night Tour

Canada’s Wonderland Amusement Park

Visiting Ontario with young children? Perfect for family day trips from Ontario, Wonderland Amusement Park has been making visitors smile since 1981. The park features more than 200 attractions, including 17 roller coasters, two children’s areas, and a 20-acre water park.

It’s open year-round through all four seasons, and hosts daily live shows and special events throughout the year. When you visit around Christmas or Halloween, you’ll be treated to themed adventures.

That being said, Canada’s Wonderland isn’t just for youngsters, and the park is a top location for corporate adventures, vacations with friends, or a romantic trip. Like any world-class amusement park, it is home to fantastic dining and shopping arcades, which will be sure to keep you busy between rides.

Feel like turning this into an overnight stay? This comfortable townhouse is an ideal home overlooking the amusement park.

Blue Mountain and Collingwood

There’s nothing better than a good old trip into the mountains. The Blue Mountains are a two-hour drive from Toronto and offer adventures from summer through to winter. 

As a snowboarder myself, I’d highly recommend checking this mountain out if you’re visiting during the colder months. You’ll find a charming base village that leads up to over 15 ski lifts and an abundance of easy to expert terrain.

If skiing, snowboarding, and tubing aren’t for you, there is lots to keep you busy in the village, which is packed with cozy eateries and trendy shops. The town of Collingwood on the Georgian Bay is only a 10-minute drive away from the ski resort.

Blue Mountain and Collingwood are also great destinations for a summer Ontario day trip. When you’re visiting with kids, be sure to purchase the Play All Day Pass, which will give you access to over 10 different attractions including a mountain roller coaster, a canopy climbing net, ziplines, and more.

Suggested trips: Between Collingwood & Toronto: Smartphone Audio Driving Tour

Algonquin Provincial Park

Located between the Georgian Bay and the Ottawa River, Algonquin Provincial Park is a natural wonder worth a visit in Ontario. The park is huge, to say the least, with over 2400 lakes and miles worth of streams.

Driving from Toronto to the entrance of the park will take just under three hours, but once you’re there, you could spend a lot more time driving between the different attractions. While it’s a great park for a day trip, Algonquin has been praised for having some of the most beautiful campsites in Ontario . Take what you want from that!

You have to pay for a permit to enter the park, so make sure the tour you pick includes entrance fees in the day rate. An outdoor lovers’ playground, Algonquin Park is a hotspot for recreational activities. From backcountry camping to boating, canoeing, dog sledding, fishing and hunting, picnicking, skiing, snowmobiling, and swimming, there is something to do all year round in this exquisite area.

Suggested trips: Algonquin Provincial Park Day Tour , 6 Hour Algonquin Park Canoe Trip , and Algonquin Park Winter Adventure

St Jacobs 

Located just outside of Waterloo along the Conestoga River, only an hour and a half drive from Toronto, The Village of St. Jacobs is a charming spot to visit for a cultural day trip in Ontario.

If you’re up for some local history, St. Jacobs has a unique Mennonite heritage . The town was first settled in the early 1830s by Pennslyvania Dutch populations. The heritage of the village has been well preserved – you can even still visit the first mills built in the area! St. Jacobs had a small population with a strong Germanic culture, which is still evident today. 

Walking through the streets feels like you’ve taken a step back in time. But today, the streets are lined with trendy boutiques, specialty stores, and antique spots. Don’t forget to check out the Farmers’ Market, which is a big drawing point in the village. It sells everything from artisanal to home-baked goods.

If you want to extend your day trip to an overnight one, spend a night in this classic 1842 B&B with village views. 

Port Dover 

Known for its bustling fishing industry, Port Dover is a small town located in Norfolk County on the northern shores of Lake Erie in Ontario. Today, this lakeside village is well-loved for its beaches, piers, and local community, making it a great stop for an Ontario day trip.

If you’ve never been to Norfolk County, Port Dover is the place to start exploring. Named after the town of the same name in England, it was established in the early 1800s. The village was burned down and rebuilt, and has since developed a name for itself as one of the largest freshwater fishing areas in the Americas.

Boaters will love the Port Dover Harbor Marina, while foodies will be kept busy by the restaurants along the lake shores. If you happen to visit on a Friday the 13th, you’ll be greeted by lines of motorcycles that parade through the streets. 

The village is about a two-hour drive from the city of Toronto. If you feel like exploring more of the area, rent out this charming waterfront cottage outside the city.

Ferris Provincial Park 

Ferris Provincial Park is another outstanding nature-lovers paradise on the doorstep of Ontario’s big cities. Just like Algonquin Park, Ferris is a top destination for overnight camping, but being only two hours from Toronto, it’s also a great spot for a day trip.

There are a ton of adventurous things to do in the park. If you visit during the fall months, you’ll be blown away by the colorful trees from the lookout over Ranney Falls. Spring is just as gorgeous, when the park shows off brightly colored wildflowers along the Drumlin Trail. In winter, you could backcountry ski and enjoy the snowshoe trails which are well maintained by park rangers.

Summer is the best time for enjoying time on the Trent River. Whether you enjoy kayaking or prefer admiring the bird and wildlife from the shore, there’s something for everyone. Don’t miss the pedestrian suspension bridge over the Trent River Gorge, which overlooks exquisite panoramic views of the park.

Fancy spending some more time in the park? This quaint cottage Airbnb in Campbellford has everything you might need for a short stay.

Suggested Trips : Rail Town Off-Road Quad Adventure

The Stratford Festival 

A short two-hour drive from Toronto, Stratford is a small city on the Avon River in Ontario’s Perth County. Just like the Stratford Upon Avon in England (which was home to the Great playwright Shakespeare), Ontario’s Stratford was also settled by English, Irish, Scottish and German immigrants in the early 1800s.

The city is best known for its selection of top-rated restaurants, its art scene, and its festival season which runs from May through to October. When you visit during these months, you can plan your trip around the Stratford Shakespeare Festival or the Stratford Summer Music Festival. Trust me when I say, these festivals are worth a visit, and they are the city’s claims to fame.

That being said, it’s a spectacular place to visit on a day trip from Ontario year-round, with a charming small-town atmosphere, outstanding dining options, and a fascinating history rooted in English literature, theatre, and western culture.

Suggested trips: Stratford Countryside Dining Experience

Prince Edward Wine County

More wine tours? We like the sound of that! Thanks to its limestone-rich soil and moderate climate, Prince Edward Wine County is home to some of the most famous Canadian wine producers.

Just over two hours from the city of Toronto, the county plays host to over 35 independent winemakers, each using different wine-making techniques to create uniquely tasty craft beverages. Unlike many other wine tasting trips, winetasting in Prince Edward is refreshingly unpretentious and offers a more down-to-earth experience than most.

Most of the wineries in the region specialize in Pino Noir and Chardonnay, but the local winemakers are always learning new tricks and testing new techniques. It’s not all about wine here, though, and you could also make a stop at the local brewery for a cold one, or wander through the local farmers’ market and museums until your feet give in.

Suggested trips: Tesla Wine Tour and Horseback Adventure at Fina Vista Farm

The Muskoka Lakes and Gravenhurst

Muskoka is a collection of eclectic towns and villages about two and a half hours drive from Toronto. Together with over 1600 lakes, a vast forest, and a bunch of great restaurants and bars, it’s no wonder Muskoka is such a desirable destination for an Ontario day trip.

In fact, when you’re visiting this area, you might bump into Tom Hanks, Justin Bieber, Kate Hudson, or Steven Spielberg, who all allegedly have cabins on the lake shores! While the best time to visit is definitely during the warmer summer months, the lakes and their surrounding trees put on a spectacular show of oranges and yellows during fall too. 

Suggested trips: Barefoot Earthing Experience and Canoe Fishing Guide

Wasaga Beach 

Wasaga Beach is a great spot for a day trip if you want your own adventure, without the hassle of organizing a tour. The beach is only an hour and forty-five minutes from Toronto, and is the world’s longest freshwater beach. With pristine white sand and panoramic views of the Niagara Escarpment across the Georgian Bay, it’s also one of the most beautiful!

If fishing is your thing, the Nottawasaga River nearby is excellent for game fishing. You can rent a boat or canoe and explore the area. Go golfing, skydiving, hiking, biking, or even snowshoeing and cross country skiing during the winter months. The activities are endless no matter what time of year you choose to visit!

Mount St. Louis Moonstone Ski Resort 

Ski and snowboard trips are so nice, we had to add them twice! Mount St. Louis Moonstone Ski Resort is only an hour and a half from the city, making it perfect for a winter day trip. 

About half the terrain is groomed for intermediate skiers and riders, while 35% is appropriate for beginners. If you’re after the hard stuff, 15% of the terrain is categorized as difficult.

There is a well-equipped snow school and rental shops which will keep young kids busy all day. If you’re a confident skier or snowboarder, you could try a run down the park and pipe (locally known as the Skool Yard, Junkyard, and Outback) for a kick of adrenaline. 

A day out in the snow can get exhausting, but there is a spacious cafeteria at the base of the mountain where you can grab a hot chocolate or bite to eat for a quick refuel at any time. You can make this an overnight trip with a stay in this cozy villa with a jacuzzi and private parking.

Wanna know how to pack like a pro? Well for a start you need the right gear….

These are packing cubes for the globetrotters and compression sacks for the  real adventurers – these babies are a traveller’s best kept secret. They organise yo’ packing and minimise volume too so you can pack MORE.

Or, y’know… you can stick to just chucking it all in your backpack…

Don’t Forget Your Ontario Travel Insurance

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

Ontario is one of those spread-out provinces that has so much to offer. The majority of tourists spend their time in the big cities. However, when visiting a city like Ottawa or Toronto, it’s always important to spend some time checking out the areas beyond the skyscrapers and highways.

Taking a day trip from Ontario and exploring the beautiful nature that the province has to offer will be the highlight of your trip. From pristine lakeside beaches to cozy winter ski resorts to exquisite national and provincial parks, there is so much more to do in Ontario than first meets the eye.

The Prince Edward Wine County is a personal favorite of mine, however, the convenience of seeing Niagara Falls and the Niagara Wine Region in one day is ideal for those without much time to spare.

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

Sheridan Cahoon

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The ultimate Ontario itinerary: A 10-day Road Trip in Ontario

Follow me on a 10-day road trip in Ontario! This itinerary is taking in some of the most beautiful landscapes of southern Ontario: the bustling city of Toronto, the gushing Niagara Falls and a canoe camping getaway in Killarney Provincial Park you’ll never forget!

This post contains affiliate links which I may make a commission from. Find out more here . I was hosted on this trip to Ontario by Ontario Travel. All opinions are my own.

I fell head over heels for Canada the first time I stepped foot in this country. That was in 2012 and it was my first big backpacking adventure. Then, British Columbia and Alberta dominated my itinerary, but I figured out pretty quickly, that I wanted to see more of this wonderfully diverse country.

Four years later, I had the opportunity to explore a different province – I would embark on a road trip through Ontario for 10 days. When I put the itinerary together, it was not hard to get ideas together. I wanted to see Toronto and the Niagara Falls, but also get off the beaten path and into the forest, and finally try canoe camping.

The bigger problem with Canada, quite literally, is its size. Even though Ontario is just one province, it covers such a huge area, that it becomes impossible to see everything in one trip. And so, I focussed on southern Ontario this time, keeping places like Algonquin Provincial park on my bucket list for a future adventure.

Yet, I managed to squeeze a lot into my 10-day road trip around Ontario; from the bustling city of Toronto to the quiet corners of Killarney Provincial Park – here is my suggested itinerary for 10 days in Ontario.

Table of Contents

How to get around Ontario

I would have been lost without a rental car. While there are buses crisscrossing the province (especially towards the many national and provincial parks), their services can be limited. For the ultimate flexibility, I recommend hiring a car , getting a SatNav and hitting the road!

My road trip began in Sudbury. Rather than starting and finishing in Toronto, I decided to fly further up north to Sudbury and get a one-way car rental from there to Toronto. This is a little more expensive, but the amount of driving it saves you is worth the expense!

Distances in Canada are massive and coming over from Europe it can be quite a shock to look up routes and driving times.  Note, that this itinerary includes a decent amount of driving!

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My 10-day Ontario itinerary

Killarney (2 days).

2-hour drive from Sudbury Airport, 132km

From Sudbury, I drove south to Killarney, a quaint town on the shores of Georgian Bay. Not many people live here year-round, but there are lots of holiday cottages, and many people come to Killarney by boat  – some even all the way from the US, crossing Lake Huron and into Georgian Bay. It is quieter here than in other holiday regions in Ontario; likely, because it is quite a long drive away from Toronto.

Killarney is all about the outdoors. The picturesque harbour town is not so much the draw, as is the wilderness around it. And so I embarked on two mini-adventure starting right at the doorstep of my waterfront hotel, the Killarney Mountain Lodge .

On day one, I explore on foot – the Eastern Lighthouse is a mere 45-minute walk away from the hotel, even though it takes me much longer to reach it. Too pretty are the views of the Great Lakes, too peaceful the atmosphere to walk past the many beautiful viewpoints. I stop often to take pictures or to just sit still and breathe, the sun tickling my nose.

Even though it is still early in the day, the sun is strong and makes me sweat a little on this easy walk. The trail is marked with little arrows on the ground or orange flags in the trees, pay attention to those and you won’t lose your way.

The next day, I join one of the boat tours offered by the hotel. From the water, the landscape changes yet again. I now see the low hills that surround the village, giving the hotel its name. The region was once dominated by a high mountain range, slowly carried off by the glaciers on top. Today they’re mostly covered in lush green forests, but here and there the bright white rock shines through the trees.

We sail past beautiful lodges – summer cottages that are worth millions of dollars – and chat about native fishing rights in the Great Lakes. Quickly we leave the big open water of the Georgian Bay behind and enter smaller bays, navigating smaller islands around Killarney.

I reach behind me to stick my hand into the water. It’s cold – maybe not the right time for a dip in the water…

Canoe camping in Killarney Provincial Park (2 days)

10-minute drive from Killarney, several hours of paddling

From Killarney, I make my way to Killarney Provincial Park, a short drive back up the highway. I meet my local guide Mike at Killarney Outfitters , an outdoor shop that rents out canoeing  and kayaking equipment, but also offers fully-guided tours around the Great Lakes or the lakes of the Provincial Park.

Mike and I set off with everything we need for two days – the Provincial Park is far off the beaten track, and as soon as we leave behind the main beach at George Lake, we’re on our own. And it’s bear country.

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Our goal for the day is Killarney Lake, the third in a wide-spread system of lakes among the mountains of the park. After crossing George Lake, we carry our canoes across a short portage to Freeland Lake, and a longer portage into Killarney Lake after that.

While we meet few others on the lake, it is necessary to acquire an overnight permit for the park in advance. There is a limited amount of campsites dotted along the shores of the lakes, and you may only camp if you have the respective permit. You won’t be allocated a specific campsite, so the earlier you leave George Lake, the higher are your chances to get a good spot.

We manage to find a beautiful campsite, a sheltered clearing in a light forest, surrounded on three sides by water, and pitch our tents. This would be our home for the next two nights.

To find out more about my canoe camping adventure with Killarney Outfitters read the full article about the experience linked below!

You might also like: Canoe camping in Killarney Provincial Park

Muskoka County & Haliburton Forest (1 day)

5-6-hour drive from Killarney PP to Haliburton Forest, 350km

This was by far the longest drive of my trip, and it felt like forever doing it on my own. Most of the way I followed a monotonous highway, but by the time I reached Horseshoe Lake, my SatNav directed me off the main road and into Muskoka County. This region is a popular holiday region for Torontonians and is world-famous for being the home of the comfortable Muskoka chairs.

The roads get smaller and smaller (in Canadian terms) until I finally find myself at the edge of Haliburton Forest, a privately-owned forest near Algonquin Provincial Park. I check in at Haliburton Forest and Wild Life Reserve , which is run by the same family who owned the land around it; 100,000 acres of forest and it only keeps growing. They bought the land with the specific aim to make a living off sustainable forestry, while at the same time protecting the biodiversity of this very special forest.

By the time I reached the lodge, I had just about enough time to join the annual end-of-season BBQ, watch the locals line dance and have a few beers in the sunset.

The next day I explored the forest. Near the lodge, there is a wolf centre, where you can learn about the local wolf packs, and if you’re lucky, even spot some of them nearby. On a canopy tour, I learnt more about the challenges of caring for this forest and get close up with the giant trees at its heart. The tour included a brief walk through the forest, a quick canoe ride across a lake, and finally, a long walk high up among the treetops, on a purpose-built course with viewing platforms.

Accommodation at Haliburton Forest is in two- or three-bedroom cottages as well as log cabins more suitable for groups. If you can, I highly recommend spending more time here and maybe even venture into Algonquin Provincial Park for a few days!

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Niagara Falls (1 day)

4-5-hour road trip, 380 km

After exploring Haliburton Forest in the morning, I made my way down south. You can either drive all the way to Niagara Falls in one day or stop overnight in Toronto and drive to the waterfalls the next morning. Either way, you will have a full day exploring the area around the Niagara Falls, as it is just a short drive from Toronto.

Niagara Falls Helicopter Flight

My first glimpse of Niagara Falls was from the air – a helicopter flight over the waterfalls is a brilliant way to really grasp their size and impact on the area. You can clearly see the difference between the Canadian and the US-American side, but also the greenery supported by the large river delta leading up to the falls. Flights with Niagara Helicopters cost from £85 (CAD$ 145) and last about 12 minutes.

Book your helicopter flight here !

Niagara Falls Boat Tour

The second unmissable way to experience the Niagara Falls is as close up as possible – on a boat tour with Hornblower Niagara Cruises.  Equipped with a thin red rain poncho you can choose to spend time in the protected lounge or the outer observation deck – guess which one I chose!

The boat tour lasts about 20 minutes and costs around £17. The route goes past the Bridal Veil Falls and the American side of the Niagara Falls, until you reach the famous horseshoe-shaped waterfalls on the Canadian side. The boat does not just stop in front of them, but goes right into the spray and the mist, leaving you wet, poncho or not. Make sure you pack away your camera and bring waterproof pouches. A GoPro is an ideal camera to take photos of the Falls and yourself up close.

Book your boat tour here !

The small town of Niagara on the Lake is an ideal way to end your day, not only because you will find less touristy restaurants than by the Falls, but also because the area is rich in vineyards waiting to be explored!

Of course, you can’t drink too much, since you’re driving, but even just tasting a sip of the famous Ontario ice wine is worth the detour!

There are also guided tours from Toronto that save you driving and include both, a Niagara Falls experience and a winery tour. Check it out here .

Toronto (3 days – or forever)

1.5-hour road trip, 130km

The final stop of my Ontario road trip was Toronto. I actually spend over a week here, to really get to know the city, but I think three days is enough to give you a taste of the city. I suggest, that each day you discover a different side of Toronto.

Day 1: Toronto Sightseeing

Spend your first day in Toronto like a real tourist. Whether you hit up the museums, like the Bata Shoe Museum or the fantastic Royal Ontario Museum, visit the top of the CN Tower or the stadium of the Toronto Blue Jays, there is an attraction for everyone!

My personal favourite was the sunset cruise with the Tall Ship Kajama which opens up a completely different perspective of the Toronto skyline.

Day 2: Toronto for Hipsters

Toronto is an incredibly cool city, and your trip would not be complete without learning some bits and pieces about the local street art culture, hanging out in coffee shops, strolling across the markets and vintage shop until you drop!

My favourite areas for shopping were Kensington Market and West Queen West, an uber-trendy part of town, where you can find one vintage shop after the other. The Distillery District was also very nice for shopping and restaurants, but overall a bit more touristy than the other neighbourhoods.

I went on a street art tour  around Queen Street West and Spadina Avenue with Daniel from Tourguys , who explained everything from the key players of street art in the city to the legal situation of graffiti in Toronto. He took me to back alleys and lanes, pointed out street art that is well hidden in the busy city landscape and told me the stories behind the artpieces. I can only recommend doing this tour!

The best thing about Toronto for hipsters is the abundance of cool coffee shops, either to work in or simply cure your hangover (from drinking or shopping). I wrote an article about my favourite coffee shops .

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Day 3: Get outside in Toronto

Finally, Toronto might be a bustling urban jungle, but it is also surrounded by some wonderful nature!  Here are some ideas to get outside in Toronto:

• Rent a bicycle and make your way to Toronto Island . The views across to the city are amazing, and there are many bike paths to explore. You could also rent a kayak or canoe and paddle around the shore of the island.
• Take a bus towards Cliffside and hike through Scarborough Bluffs Park . The park northeast of central Toronto is famous for its crystal clear waters and bright white cliffs overlooking it!
• Make your way to Woodbine Beach and rent a SUP board from WSUP Toronto . On the board you can paddle towards the Toronto skyline, try some yoga poses or simply relax in the sun away from the beach crowds.

My road trip to Ontario was an incredible adventure and I still can’t believe how much you can see in just 10 days. Still, the route I described here only covers a small area of southern Ontario, so if you’ve got more time, make sure to cover even more ground!

Travelling solo through this incredibly beautiful province with the kindest people and most serene landscapes made me fall in love with Canada all over again. I wish I could have had more time to see even more, spend another night or two in the tent and find more lakes to jump into, but alas the dream was over way too fast.

Canada , you did it again!

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10 thoughts on “ The ultimate Ontario itinerary: A 10-day Road Trip in Ontario ”

Pingback: An Expert's Guide of Best Things to Do in the Niagara Falls - Knycx Journeying

You’ve captured Ontario so beautifully! Makes me proud to be an Ontarian 🙂

Love your video, and mostly the canoe/camping part. What a great experience!

Thanks for your comment! I loved the canoeing trip – it had been my dream for years!

Love this video! Ontario seems amazing, especially the hiking part in the Crack. The view is beautiful…

It was one of the best hikes I’ve ever done – very short, very steep, but oh so worth it! <3 Thanks for your comment!

Awesome video! I love Niagara Falls and would love to do a helicopter over the top!! 🙂 Would be amazing! Thanks for sharing 🙂

Hands down one of the most beautiful experiences I’ve ever had! Thanks for your comment!

Looks like you had an amazing trip! Ontario has been my home for all 30 some odd years of my life but this was the first year I also decided to focus my attention on it and explore a slice of what it has to offer! Great video!!!

I was so positively surprised as well! I thought I’d miss the Tall mountains,but Ontario was just too beautiful 🙂 Thanks for your comment!

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Grand Bend Beach | Ontario's Southwest

Southern Ontario

Central ontario, northern ontario, on this page, ontario summer getaway ideas for families.

If you are looking for things to do with your kids this summer, Ontario has got it all.

Whether it’s a weekend getaway, a weeklong road trip or something a little closer to home, there is something for you and your family. Check out this collection of family itineraries, getaways and trip ideas from across Ontario.

From beaches and farms to big cities, planning your family trip just got a boost of inspiration.

Hit the beaches along Ontario’s West Coast

The soft sandy beaches , endless lake views and myriad of water-based adventures on Lake Huron make for the perfect summer destination for beach-loving families.

Check out family-friendly accommodations like  Oakwood Resort in Grand Bend, featuring an indoor pool and onsite golf just a frisbee throw away from the beach. Nearby, Bonnie Doone Manor-on-the-Beach and  Ipperwash Beach Club  also provide family-friendly beachside accommodations. A breezy, beachy vibe sets the tone at The Beach Motel in Southampton.

Find family fun in Niagara Falls

There’s no shortage of things to do with kids in Niagara Falls .

Aside from the obvious awe of the majestic falls, families are drawn to games and entertainment in Clifton Hill , one of the largest glass-enclosed butterfly conservatories in North America, thrilling zipline adventure, indoor waterparks and amazing kid-friendly resorts and hotels.

Indigenous experiences at Chiefswood Park Six Nations

Experience authentic Haudenosaunee culture of the Six Nations of the Grand River through guided cultural and outdoor tours at Chiefswood Park Six Nations .

Open year-round, the park also features a boat ramp, playground, canoe and kayak rentals, campgrounds and over a dozen super cozy cabins.

Adventures around the Grand River

Live out your fantasy of being a family of adventurers around the Grand River in the Heart of Ontario.

African Lion Safari’s Wake Up the Wild experience gives you access to the park before it opens to the public and a personal guided tour.

Just west of the park, embark on a thrilling rafting journey down the Grand River with Grand Experiences or Grand River Rafting .

Family getaway in Toronto

From exciting sports and cultural and scientific wonders to treats and eats that everyone can enjoy, Toronto has amazing attractions your kids won’t want to miss.

Plan your family getaway in Toronto and save money and time using the TO CityPass to five top attractions.

Theme park thrills in York and Durham

For larger-than-life fun, choose from a selection of theme parks and outdoor adventures just north of Toronto including  Canada's Wonderland , Jungle Cat World , LEGOLAND , Treetop Trekking and The Roc Adventure Park .

Georgian Bay family getaway

Find family fun along the Bruce Peninsula and the southern coast of Georgian Bay.

Choose from waterfront resorts like Miller’s Family Camp or recreation resorts like Blue Mountain .

Explore natural wonders of Bruce Peninsula National Park and the Niagara Escarpment. Find outdoor adventure at Scenic Caves  or  Kickin Back Alpaca Ranch and visit some of Ontario’s more iconic beaches .

Brighton beaches and The Big Apple

Take a  road trip in Northumberland  to over 60 kilometres of farm-fresh produce, apple country magic, pristine beaches, an art gallery, a few museums and even a theatre in a barn.

Make time for some extra stops along the area’s famous  Butter Tart Tour . 

And don’t miss the region’s signature roadside attraction,  The Big Apple .

Family fun in Kingston and Brockville

Canada’s first capital city is brimming with history and culture, plus so much more!

Family fun in Kingston includes cruising in the 1,000 Islands, witnessing the Sunset Ceremonies at Fort Henry , enjoying splash parks, treetop trekking, unique museums, watersports and, some might argue, the best pizza you’ll ever have.

Just an hour east of Kingston, the Aquatarium at Tall Ships Landing will delight your family with fascinating and fun exhibits.

Explore Ottawa with the family

Experience family-friendly summer vibes with this three-day Ottawa itinerary .

From the downtown core to the countryside, Canada’s capital is full of family-fun attractions, tours, rafting and museums.

Add an extra day to splash, play and cool off at Calypso Waterpark just outside the city. Or experience epic adventure with Ottawa City Rafting .

Getaway to the Country

Unplug and rediscover family-friendly adventures in Lennox & Addington , just east of Kingston.

Enjoy fishing, camping, farm visits, hiking and cycling trails, a day at the beach and unbelievably beautiful starry night skies.

Family glamping in Ontario’s Highlands

After a getaway to Four Corners Algonquin in Whitney, you’ll have discovered your new favourite family tradition.

Designed to help you reconnect with nature and with each other, experience family-friendly glamping, camping or tiny house accommodations and enjoy access to Algonquin Park during the day and crackling campfires at night.

Go resorting in Muskoka

From lakeside lodges to cozy cabins to the themed entertainment at Santa’s Village , Muskoka has served up unforgettable family vacations for generations.

Find the perfect Muskoka family resort for your summer getaway.

A family fun weekend in Sudbury

If you’re wondering how to spend an ideal weekend in Sudbury with kids, this itinerary has the inside scoop with outdoor adventures, fascinating museums including Science North , sunny beaches and yummy food.

Algoma’s road trip attractions

If you're looking for the best places to grab the cutest photo ops of you and your family, look no further than this Algoma itinerary . And explore the best of Algoma Country along the way.

Family fishing trip in Sunset Country

In addition to amazing sunsets, Sunset Country is famous for its incredible fishing. Customize your next family fishing adventure starting with one of Northeastern Ontario’s many fishing lodges, resort, camps and even houseboat rentals .

Have a fun and safe family vacation in Ontario!

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Last updated:  April 5, 2024

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• About Northern Ontario
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• Group of Seven
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• Algoma Country
• Northeastern Ontario

Sault Ste. Marie

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• Superior Country

Thunder Bay

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• Snowmobiling

25 Perfect Summer Getaways & Vacations in Ontario

Are you ready for summer? You’ll find a lifetime of adventures in Ontario, the diversity of landscapes lending to a huge range of outdoor activities. Of course, you’ll find good old standbys like world-class canoe routes and stunning hikes in pretty much every corner of the province. You’ll discover some surprising adventures, too—including the best mountain biking east of the Rockies, endless beaches on freshwater seas, opportunities to learn and reconnect with nature, and epic long-distance backpacking trails.

Assembling a concise list of the best summer getaways felt like an endless task! But we were up to the challenge: Here’s a rundown of some of the finest summer getaways Ontario has to offer in communities large and small, all across the map. 

North Bay hugs the shoreline of sprawling Lake Nipissing; the cool breezes off the lake make it a wonderful community to visit in the summer. Hikers can explore the trails at Duchesnay Falls in the northwestern corner of town, just off the Trans-Canada Highway. A 3-km loop brings you to a series of cascades that are beloved by photographers.  Laurier Woods Conservation Area offers 10 km of trails close to the junction of highways 11 and 17.

Interested in paddling? You don’t need any gear or experience to sign up for a guided local kayak tour on Lake Nipissing with Shockwaves Paddle Adventures . North Bay is also a key stop on the 645-km Voyageur Cycling Route .

The Chief Commanda passenger ferry has long been a fixture on North Bay’s waterfront. Now the 99-foot steel hull, which plied Lake Nipissing from 1947 to 1974, has been reclaimed as The Boat , a lakeside restaurant and bar. While in town you can also check out the award-winning farmers’ market and stay at the Sunset Inn on the shores of Lake Nipissing. 

Blend the urban with the natural in Sudbury. | Photo: Destination Ontario

The Nickel City has shed its reputation as a hardrock mining town and embraced outdoor adventure. Kivi Park is an all-season destination with great mountain biking, hiking and paddling in the summer months. This 480-acre greenspace near the city centre at Long Lake has something for everyone, including mountain bike, SUP, kayak and canoe rentals on-site. Meanwhile, explore 15 km of single-track mountain bike trails in Walden , or check out countless walking and hiking options in parks and conservation areas all around the city.

Get a taste of Sudbury-roasted java at Twiggs Coffee Roasters or Old Rock Roastery in the morning, and visit Stack Brewing or Crosscut Distillery at night. For local food, check out the Sudbury Market , or sit down to fine-dining at the Verdicchio Ristorante .

This small town on the Trans-Canada Highway east of North Bay is nestled in a stunning pine-cloaked valley at the junction of the Mattawa and Ottawa rivers. The town of Mattawa is ideally located for outdoor adventures, with plenty of local establishments making it easy to access the surrounding wilderness and partake in activities.

Located adjacent to Samuel de Champlain Provincial Park , the Canadian Ecology Centre is a great destination for adventurous families with cabin rentals, trails and optimal waterfront on the Mattawa River. Nature’s Harmony Ecolodge is another unique place to stay on the Ottawa River near Mattawa with yurt accommodations and access to hiking, biking and paddling opportunities.

Head to the Soo for epic mountain biking at Hiawatha Highlands. Photo: Tanya Sylvester // @timtan92

Sault Ste. Marie is rapidly emerging as one of Canada’s best adventure towns for its easy access to world-class outdoor activities on both land and water. The mid-sized Northern Ontario city has made big investments in mountain biking. The 30-km network of single-track at Hiawatha Highlands , including brand-new flow trails and a variety of options for all levels of riders, is among the province’s best. Bike rentals are available at Velorution , located just around the corner from the trailhead. Meanwhile, Red Pine Tours offers guided cycling adventures on mountain, road and gravel bikes throughout the area.

If paddling is more up your alley, the Sault College Waterfront Adventure Centre , located on the St. Marys River close to downtown, offers canoe, kayak and standup paddleboard rentals. You can also sign up for a guided tour with Thrive Tours , an Indigenous operator offering rich cultural experiences.

Book a stay at the Water Tower Inn —the top-rated place to stay in Sault Ste. Marie—for easy access to mountain biking and hiking trails. For food, check out The Mill Steakhouse in the Canal District or Giovanni’s for authentic Italian food in the city’s north end. Visit OutSpoken Brewery or Northern Superior for locally brewed beer and pub fare.

Lake Temagami has been a popular tourist destination for over a century—with good reason. This expansive body of water boasts countless inlets and islands as well as world-renowned old-growth pine, making it a favourite destination for paddlers, anglers and cottagers.

You have several options for an adventure-ready basecamp stay. Great Spirit Lodge is located in the lake’s southwest arm, away from the busier “Hub” area of Lake Temagami. Ojibway Family Lodge is part of Keewaydin, a legendary youth canoe camp. Lastly, there’s the Wanapitei Chateau on remote Sandy Inlet. All three offer excellent cuisine—along with world-class canoeing and kayaking and immediate access to great hiking trails.

Outdoor adventures abound in Nipigon. | Photo: Aitor

This small town just east of Thunder Bay has come alive in recent years—yet it’s always had a place on the map for outdoor adventure. You’ll likely pass through Nipigon en route to the Ouimet Canyon , a stunning 100-meter-deep rift in the Canadian Shield, Northern Ontario’s own Grand Canyon.

Nipigon is also the headquarters of the Lake Superior National Marine Conservation Area and boasts a fantastic 10-km hiking trail which connects to the nearby town of Red Rock. For its part, Red Rock is home to a popular folk music festival held annually in August. Ducky’s Diner offers home-cooked meals and a fun, quirky dining experience in Nipigon.

Goulais River

Goulais River is a small community just north of Sault Ste. Marie that comes alive in the summer. The local guides at Forest the Canoe offer family-friendly and interpretive hiking and paddling tours to share some of the best scenery in the Algoma Highlands, including canoeing at Robertson Lake and day hiking on the Voyageur Trail.

Also in the area, check out Norm’s Cabin for a unique place to stay. This remote, off-grid retreat is located on the quiet Bone Lake, with immediate access to a huge network of mountain biking and hiking trails. Contact Blaq Bear Tours for more details.

Visit the scenic lookout atop Mount McKay, and learn about the people of Fort William First Nation. | Photo: Destination Ontario

Thunder Bay ’s revitalized downtown area embraces the shores of Lake Superior, with stunning views across open water to the Sleeping Giant and Pie Island. Get intimate with the big lake on a sailing or Zodiac tour with Sail Superior . Do you prefer terrestrial adventures? Ride some of Ontario’s finest single-track mountain bike trails at Shuniah Mines , featuring over 35 km of trails in the Trowbridge Forest. Bike rentals are available at Rollin’ Thunder .

For a family-friendly activity, visit Fort William Historical Park . Step back in time with in-character interpreters and facilities that recreate the historic fur trade post which anchored the Canadian economy 200 years ago.

Batchawana Bay

The main attraction in the community of Batchawana Bay is its namesake: a sprawling lobe of Lake Superior that’s shallow and sheltered from the main body of water and abundant with sand, making for ideal swimming conditions. One of the finest beaches on Batchawana Bay is located off the Trans-Canada Highway, only 45 minutes north of Sault Ste. Marie, and is accessible to customers of the Voyageur’s Lodge and Cookhouse . Its location has double appeal: not only is the swimming and paddleboarding fantastic, you can also enjoy great Canadian-inspired cuisine, spend a night in a clean and cozy motel, or—at the very least—sample the “world’s best” apple fritters. Numbers alone support owner Frank O’Connor’s claim: the cookhouse sells over 20,000 of these irresistibly sweet treats per year.

Explore the sheltered waters of Rossport by kayak. | Photo: Destination Ontario

Perhaps the prettiest town on Lake Superior, Rossport resembles a Scandinavian fishing village with its vista of tall islands and glimmering waters. Rossport is located about two hours east of Thunder Bay, off the Trans-Canada Highway. The town has always been a noted stop for travellers; the Willows Inn B&B keeps the tradition alive with cozy rooms mere steps from the waterfront.

It’s easy to spend a weekend in Rossport. There’s a fantastic town park with a family-friendly sand beach and great swimming on Lake Superior. As well, Rossport is the western terminus of the Casque Isles Trail , a rugged backpacking route with good options for day hikes. Paddlers can rent kayaks or book guided day touring or overnight trips with SAND Adventures to explore the area’s island-sheltered waters.

The Georgian Bay town of Killarney bustles in the summer months for good reason. For starters, the village serves as the main access point for Killarney Provincial Park , providing a wide range of accommodation and dining options for paddlers, hikers and campers coming and going from a wilderness adventure in Northeastern Ontario.

Killarney Mountain Lodge is a favourite when it comes to places to spend the night before or after a backcountry trip, or as a place to base your stay for day trips into the Park. For an off-grid experience, book one of Avalon Eco Resort ’s waterfront cabins or campsites, located just up Highway 637 at Tyson Lake.

Killarney Kanoes and Killarney Outfitters both offer canoe and kayak rentals, as well as tips for making the most of your visit to the area—including suggestions for paddling routes and great hiking trails. No matter what you do, though, a trip to Killarney isn’t complete without getting fish and chips at Herbert Fisheries on the Georgian Bay waterfront.

Visit the Aguasabon Gorge while in Terrace Bay. | Photo: Douglas

Terrace Bay

The Trans-Canada Highway between Sault Ste. Marie and Thunder Bay is dominated by spectacular views of Lake Superior’s north shore. About three hours from Thunder Bay, the town of Terrace Bay is home to a brand-new visitor centre for the Lake Superior National Marine Conservation Area , making it an ideal pit stop to learn more about your surroundings.

Terrace Bay is perched on a steep shoreline with long views to the Slate Islands—a remote provincial park and popular destination for advanced sea kayakers—about 10 km offshore. A visit to the town’s marina at the mouth of the Aguasabon River reveals an immense sand beach and access to the Casque Isles hiking trail , which offers many options—including an easy walk to a stunning river gorge and cascade.

Continue down the highway west to Schreiber , another small town featuring a railway museum, access to Lake Superior and authentic Italian food at Filane’s Restaurant .  

You could visit Kenora just for its gorgeous waterfront, but there’s so much more to do and enjoy here as well. | Photo: Destination Ontario

Kenora is your gateway to Lake of the Woods, a vast expanse of freshwater, hidden bays and countless islands in Northwestern Ontario. Life here revolves around the waterfront , with great options for paddling, angling, boating and time at the beach. Houseboating is a classic Kenora outdoor vacation—and easily compatible with those who love to kayak and SUP. Book your trip with Houseboat Adventures or Lake Life Houseboats .

Check out Green Adventures for canoe and kayak rentals. Blue Lake Provincial Park and Rushing River Provincial Park both offer full-service campgrounds for tenting, trailers and RVs—as well as access to canoe tripping on the Path of the Paddle (part of the Trans-Canada Trail).

You’ll find lots of options for dining in Kenora, too, including the Lake of the Woods Brewing Company , a popular taproom in a reclaimed historic firehall.

Enjoy beautiful surrounds and lodgings and the Lodge at Pine Cove. | Photo: Destination Ontario

French River

French River is arbitrarily defined as the beginning of Northern Ontario, and it certainly gives an amazing glimpse of all this region has to offer. The French has a rich history as an Indigenous canoe route and later served as a focal point in the Canadian fur trade, linking the Great Lakes to the Ottawa River. A stay at the Lodge at Pine Cove is a luxe way to sample this rich history, offering gourmet meals and cabin accommodations in a spectacular landscape of tall pines and polished granite.

For the more adventurous (and for a truly immersive experience), sign up for a multiday canoe trip on the French River with Black Feather , a legendary Canadian outfitter that offers trips for all levels.

Book a stay at Northern Edge Algonquin and experience all the activities the area has to offer.| Photo: Destination Ontario

South River

South River is the western gateway to Algonquin Provincial Park , located between Huntsville and North Bay on Highway 11. The small town is home to outfitters including Northern Edge Algonquin , which offers canoe tours, yoga and accommodations, among other activities, and Voyageur Quest , a guiding company that also offers a popular Algonquin Log Cabin retreat.

South River boasts fewer crowds than Algonquin access points along the Highway 60 corridor, but it’s still busy in mid-summer. Be sure to plan and book your adventure early to avoid missing out.

Wawa was once the best-kept secret along the Trans-Canada Highway between Sault Ste. Marie and Thunder Bay, closely guarded by adventurers and anglers. Not any more. The small town is your gateway for experiencing Lake Superior. Better act fast if you want to score a room at Rock Island Lodge , the area’s only accommodations on Lake Superior. This stunning four-bedroom bed and breakfast located at the mouth of the Michipicoten River is beloved by photographers and paddlers; you can sign up for a photo workshop or register for kayak, SUP or canoe day trips and instruction with Naturally Superior Adventures .

There’s great hiking in Wawa, too—including an amazing waterfall trail along the Magpie River. For a surprising dining experience check out the Kinniwabi Pines Restaurant , which features authentic Caribbean fare.

Blind River

This small Northern Ontario town on Lake Huron’s North Channel features lots of potential for outdoor adventures. Hikers can visit the Boom Camp , a unique natural space encompassing wetlands, rocky ridges and tall pines, as well as easy trails adjacent to Lake Huron and the mouth of the Mississagi River.

Head north of Blind River on Highway 557 to access the more rugged Voyageur Trail . Just west of town, the long-distance Great Lakes Waterfront Trail cycling route leaves the Trans-Canada Highway in favour of quiet country backroads, providing some of the best road riding in Central Algoma.

Stay at Melwel Lodge on Basswood Lake and visit the historic 12-sided Cordukes/Weber Barn for unique gifts.

Want to experience Ontario’s James Bay frontier? Cochrane in Northeastern Ontario is your starting point for a bucket-list adventure—with several attractions of its own. Be sure to spend an afternoon in Cochrane at the Polar Bear Habitat , where you’ll encounter three resident polar bears and learn more about their biology, and a night at the historic Ontario Northland Station Inn . Then board the Polar Bear Express for a wilderness train journey to Moosonee.

Moose-Cree Ecolodge on Moose Factory Island provides a unique Indigenous cultural experience, with plenty of opportunities to enjoy regional food and get a sense of life in the Far North.

Find out what fun programming Voyageur Wilderness has to offer in Atikokan. | Photo: Destination Ontario

This town in Northwestern Ontario is known as the Canoe Capital of Canada. Atikokan is the main entry point to Quetico Provincial Park , a legendary expanse of traditional wilderness canoe routes. Voyageur Wilderness provides a great introduction to the region, with services ranging from cabin and lodge accommodations to guiding and complete canoe trip outfitting. Quetico Outfitters offers a similar array of services, with additional options for anglers.

While in Atikokan be sure to stop by Little Darlings Restaurant for coffee, lunch and home-baked goodies.

Take in the view from the Cup and Saucer Trail. | Photo: Destination Ontario

Manitoulin Island

The largest island on the Great Lakes offers no shortage of outdoor adventures, all within easy access from Southern Ontario aboard the MS Chi-Cheemaun ferry . For starters, there are great cycling routes for road riding, with the all-inclusive Alvar Cycle Tour emerging as one of the most popular multiday cycling events in Ontario.

Looking for a family-friendly hike? Ascend the northern terminus of the Niagara Escarpment on the Cup and Saucer Trail , located near Little Current . The scenic trail is also the namesake of one of Manitoulin Brewing Company ’s microbrews.

Want to extend your stay? Manitoulin Eco Park offers campsites for tents and trailers, as well as bunkie and tipi rentals—all part of a Dark Sky Preserve that offers some of the finest stargazing in the province.

Timmins may be off the beaten path, but this Northeastern Ontario community has all the amenities of a mid-sized city with easy access to world-class outdoors. Great paddling abounds, with the local Ramada Inn offering kayak packages. Timmins Adventure Tours also offers kayak lessons, tours and rentals, as well as mountain bike rentals.

For a more immersive adventure experience check out WildExodus , a local outfitter that offers glamping and yurt accommodations; paddling, hiking and fishing tours; specialty retreats; and gourmet dining on the wilderness edge of Kenogamissi Lake in the boreal forest.

Elliot Lake

Elliot Lake shines as a summer destination in Ontario for its abundance of crystal-clear lakes. Located on Flack Lake, about 20 minutes north of the city centre, Laurentian Lodge is a great base camp for couples and adventurous families. Cabins and condo-style accommodations are set within a mature forest, steps from the waterfront and scenic cascade on the Boland River. There’s great swimming, paddling and fishing—and easy access to hiking trails in nearby Mississagi Provincial Park .

Laurentian Lodge’s onsite dining and kitchen-equipped suites makes it simple to plan a weeklong vacation. Make the most of the summer weather during your stay by taking a dip in the waterfalls and pools that descend from Flack to Mikel Lake, at the resort’s two beaches, or from a peddle boat in the middle of the lake.

Temiskaming Shores

Temiskaming Shores comprises the communities of New Liskeard, Haileybury and the Township of Dymond on Highway 11, and is located on one of the largest lakes in Northern Ontario. Lake Temiskaming is a sprawling body of water surrounded by cliffs, beaches and steep hills at the headwaters of the Ottawa River, making it a good “big water” destination for experienced sea kayakers.

Landlubbers can get a sense of Temiskaming on the 3-km Devil’s Rock trail from Bucke Park. For a learning experience check out the Hilliardton Marsh Research and Education Centre —in particular, be sure to attend the Hummingbird Garden Party that takes place each August. Meanwhile, cyclists will find an impressive list of paved, gravel and hard-surface biking routes . 

St. Joseph Island

St. Joseph Island is a gem located in the North Channel of Lake Huron, east of Sault Ste. Marie. Cyclists are spoilt for choice with an array of quiet backroad routes to choose from and with easy access to the Great Lakes Waterfront Trail . Meanwhile, hikers can explore easy trails at the Township of Jocelyn ’s Mountainview Park.

Become immersed in the history of the War of 1812 at Fort St. Joseph , a Parks Canada historic site that offers walking trails, excellent birding and sweeping views of Lake Huron. Sample a cup of locally roasted St. Joseph Island coffee at the Black Bear Cafe & Eatery . 

Explore the wonders of Ontario this summer

This list should keep you busy! And in case you’re wondering, there’s even more across the province to discover. So pack your bags, grab your boots, bike and paddle, and get out there and enjoy a summer outdoor getaway in Ontario.

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Conor Mihell is an award-winning environmental and adventure travel writer based in Sault Ste. Marie. Read his work in the Globe and Mail, Explore, Cottage Life, Canoe & Kayak, ON Nature, and other magazines and newspapers. He's been a sea kayak guide on Lake Superior for close to 20 years, and has paddled from Sault Ste. Marie to Thunder Bay. 

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13 Best Places To Visit In Ontario During Winter

Ontario is a large province with many activities and attractions for all kinds of people. Whether you love spending your time in the confines of a city or being out and about in nature, you won’t go wrong with these places to visit in Ontario during winter.

The province turns into a winter wonderland packed with dozens of activities during the cold months. From skiing trails and outdoor rinks to Christmas markets and art galleries, deciding where to go in Ontario can be difficult. If you find yourself in that predicament, don’t worry any further. We’ve put together a comprehensive guide on the best places to visit in Ontario in winter. With this guide, you’ll be fully informed about your preferred winter getaways in Ontario .

How Cold Does Ontario Get In Winter?

No matter how one looks at it, winter in Ontario can get cold. Frozen lakes, beautiful frozen waterfalls and vast blankets of snow type of cold. Being the second-largest province in Canada, Ontario has a variety of climates, ranging from extremely cold to relatively mild.

The secret to managing the coldness of Ontario during the winter is to dress in layers. Walking outside, you may find yourself in temperatures of -30°C or lower (when taking wind chill into account), but the cities generally stay around 0°C. Hence, we Torontonians start crying the minute mercury goes below 0°C.

Multiple layers on your body help you quickly adjust to the temperature changes while going in and out of buildings.

What to pack for winter in Ontario

It is important to dress appropriately for the coldest months of the year to make the most of winter. Layering is essential for staying warm, and materials like wool and thermal fabrics are great choices.

Adding a high-performance winter coat and snow pants to your wardrobe is also advised for outdoor activities. You also want to cover your extremities, as gloves, a toque, balaclava, scarf, and thick wool/thermal socks should all be included in your winter wardrobe.

Lastly, winter boots should reach up to the calf to allow you to traverse the snow easily.

The Best Winter Destinations in Ontario

If you’re set on spending winter in Ontario, here are some of the best sites to visit in this wonderland. 

Casa Loma, a Gothic Revival-style mansion dating back to the turn of the 20th century, is one of Toronto’s most renowned tourist attractions.

It is a popular spot for TV filming, photoshoots, weddings, and special events, boasting the awe-inspiring architecture and stunning estate gardens. Every year, the estate is transformed into a winter wonderland with enchanting decorations and lights. For an even more magical experience, visitors can explore the castle and its century-old artifacts.

Toronto Christmas Market

The Toronto Christmas Market is one of the most highly-rated Christmas markets worldwide and is a must-see if you’re in Ontario during this period.

Every year, in November and December, the market is held in the Distillery Historic District. It offers many attractions, such as light canopies, cobblestone pathways, red-brick buildings, entertainers, and a 50-foot-high, fully adorned Christmas tree.

Whether you’re looking for unique gifts, souvenirs, stocking stuffers, clothes, handmade jewelry, or even a festive atmosphere, the Toronto Christmas Market has something for everyone. There are a variety of specialty shops selling an array of items, from postcards to pottery, and you can even indulge in some sweet treats from Eva’s Chimney Cakes or Brick Street Bakery.

To top it all off, nothing beats a cup of hot mulled wine or hot chocolate in the wintery weather! Trust us!

Niagara Falls

Niagara Falls, one of North America’s most famous landmarks, draws in millions of visitors annually. This natural wonder sits on the Canada-US border by the Niagara River and is a great visit all year round. However, the falls turn into a peaceful paradise without crowds in the winter — which is why I recommend visiting around this time.

Pathways boasting trees covered in snow, chunks of floating ice, and 50-meter cascades await here. If lady luck is on your side, you may see frozen parts of the falls. 

You can also enjoy 360-degree views from the Skylon Tower or on a 12-minute scenic helicopter flight above the falls. The former even features a revolving restaurant that ensures you enjoy the jaw-dropping scenery with delicious cuisine.

Stay until evening to enjoy the Niagara Falls Winter Festival of Lights, where 8 km of the Niagara Parkway is lit up. This spectacle is especially mesmerizing in winter as the falls reflect the rainbow lighting.

Blue Mountain

Blue Mountain is easily one of Ontario’s best places to go in winter. This winter wonderland is a treasure trove for anyone who loves winter sports. Skiing, snowshoeing, snowboarding, tubing, and the like are all offered.

I recommend going to the wondrous Blue Village to make the most of your visit. There are 42 tracks and 16 chairlifts, and lessons and gear rentals to help you take on the slopes. Once here, be sure to skate at the Woodview Mountaintop to enjoy panoramic views of the Niagara Escarpment.

Don’t fret if you aren’t a fan of adrenaline-filled winter activities — there are plenty of relaxing things to do in the town. Take in waterfront views and misty air while strolling through Sunset View Park. As an alternative, I recommend visiting a spa and enjoying serenity as the most capable hands pamper you. Since I consider the resort one of the top places to visit near Toronto in winter, I recommend you visit as part of a day trip from Toronto .

Rideau Canal Skateway

Rideau Canal Skateway is considered one of the quintessential winter places to visit in Ontario. Every winter season, this UNESCO World Heritage Site hosts thousands of visitors ready to put their feet to use. 

Once the canal has frozen over, it takes shape as the world’s largest skating rink, according to the Guinness Book of World Records. The 7,8-kilometer-long rink offers you 165,621 m² of ice to skate on.

Tie your skates and glide around downtown Ottawa for the best stretch of the rink. Skaters here zoom past many of the iconic landmarks uniquely entrenched in Canadian history. Perhaps my favourite part of the downtown section of the canal is the opportunity to enjoy some delicacies from one of the kiosks here.

No winter trip is complete without a visit to the nation’s capital. During winter, the trees, buildings, streets, and everything in between get covered in fluffy white snow that makes for landscapes just begging to be photographed.

Not only does Ottawa look good during winter, but it also offers many Ontario winter activities . That is, of course, in addition to the marvellous Rideau Canal Skateway.

Top of the list is the Ottawa Winterlude *, a festival with something for everyone. For two weeks, attendants participate in ski racing, ice sculpting competitions, dancing parties and more.

Another activity you can’t miss is the Gatineau Loppet, a cross-country ski event with several races. Annually, over 2,000 skiers participate — and you can join in on the fun as anyone can register for it. Set up on the sides and watch the racers zoom down the slopes if you aren’t ready to compete in the competition.

*The Ottawa Winterlude has been cancelled for 2022, but keep an eye on their website for any changes.

Another city destination to consider as one of the places to visit in winter in Ontario is Kingston . It’s a student city on the Lake Ontario shore renowned for its beautiful scenery and limestone buildings.

Start your Kingston exploration with a stroll around Lake Ontario Park, which boasts scenic lake views. For more adventurous outdoor fun, opt for Frontenac Provincial Park, a haven of trails winding through a lush forest.

Afterwards, visit old Kingston to fill up some of the best coffee and food the city offers. Stroll the snow-covered streets admiring the landscape with a coffee in hand.

During the Christmas season, you’ll find dozens of Christmas markets selling everything from baked delicacies and light displays to gifts. For the other months, I recommend skating at Springer Market Square.

Kingston is also the gateway to the “Thousand Islands,” an archipelago with myriad outdoor activities.

With good reason, Toronto is arguably Canada’s most popular tourist destination. It has a plethora of Ontario winter attractions in addition to the splendour on offer in the summer.

Many people come to Toronto for the Christmas markets, with the Distillery District being the most famous. During the festive period, raid these markets for spectacular gifts, ride a Ferris wheel, and get serenaded by local performers.

If you’re visiting after the Christmas decorations have been taken down, don’t worry, you won’t be left out to dry. The first stop should be Nathan Phillips Square, where you can skate in a rink with live DJs often around. Glide across the ice underneath brightly lit archways with the iconic Toronto sign in the background.

There are also some landmarks to stop at, the first being Casa Loma. The gothic mansion looks straight out of a fairytale and is even more majestic when the light displays are brought to life.

Secondly, visit the iconic CN Tower and stop at the observation deck or the restaurant. Once here, you’re spoiled with 360-degree views of the city’s skyline. If you’re brave enough, people-watch those on the ground through the tower’s glass floor.

The Niagara Escarpment, museums and art galleries, a skiing center and hiking trails — that’s what Burlington has to offer . This city is one of the nicest places to visit in Ontario in winter, with a good selection of indoor and outdoor fun.

In the outdoors, shred the slopes while snowboarding or skiing at the Glen Eden Ski and Snowboard Center or take to the snow on a toboggan. Try snowshoeing through a part of the Bruce Trail for something less serious. During the hike, you’ll see plenty of greenery and awe-inspiring waterfalls.

Afterwards, replenish your energy at one of the bars, restaurants, and cafés driving the booming culinary scene.

Plenty of engaging activities await indoors if you aren’t down for some frosty outdoor fun. The first stops should be the ECHO Leahy Center or Ireland House Museum for any history buff interested in the city’s history. Check out over 1,000 ceramics from national artists at the Art Gallery of Burlington for the art enthusiast.

When it comes to natural beauty in winter, there may not be a city in Ontario that compares to Hamilton. This small town is home to over 100 waterfalls, all of which are worth chasing. They make for fantastic photo ops and are also a marvel.

Besides Niagara Falls, Hamilton is the best place to visit in Ontario for frozen cascades. Often, the waterfalls here freeze solid and create a mesmerizing palette of snow whites and pale blues with stone backgrounds. 

If you’d like to enjoy this fantasy-like phenomenon, it’s best to visit around January. Some of the more popular cascades here are Tiffany Falls, Webster Falls, and Felker’s Falls.

Unlike the more popular cities of Ottawa and Toronto, Hamilton’s downtown area isn’t too lively. However, it boasts incredible light display decorations during the festive season, with a large Christmas tree as the show’s star.

Kitchener isn’t high on most people’s destination bucket lists for Ontario, which is what makes it a great getaway in my eyes. Despite its small-town vibe, there are a lot of fun things to do in Kitchener during the cold months.

At the top of the list is skating, skating, and skating. Okay, I may exaggerate a little, but the town has over 30 outdoor skating rinks, including those in neighbouring Waterloo. The one at Waterloo Public Square is arguably the most popular among these rinks.

If skating isn’t your thing, take to the slopes for more winter sports. The Chicopee Ski Club is most people’s go-to, with skiing, snowboarding, and tubing all waiting for you. You can opt for Chicopee Tube Park for some kid-friendly tubing for families. McLennan Park is a great alternative spot if you find Chicopee too crowded. 

Once you’ve had your fair share of fun, take in scenic snow-covered natural greenery and landscapes at the Huron Natural Area.

Indoors, you can enjoy a few interactive exhibitions at TheMuseum — they rotate every few months, so I can’t recommend any specific one. If museums don’t pique your interest, marvel at contemporary artwork by local and international artists at the Kitchener-Waterloo Art Gallery (closed on Mondays).

West of Kitchener, you’ll find the quaint city of Stratford , which is most famous for being Justin Bieber’s hometown. Pop sensation aside, the city is another good place to visit in Ontario during winter.

Firstly, make your way to River Valley Winter Tube Slide and tube slide down one of eight lanes. Alternatively, you can move over snow on foot while snowshoeing, hiking, or trekking on various trails in Stratford. This can be done at the beautiful Wildwood Conservation Area and the Avon River Trail.

For a trail of a different kind, take a walk on the Chocolate Trail, that’s famous among those with a sweet tooth. This stretch of road is sprinkled with various chocolate stores selling some of Stratford’s best chocolates. Grab a bite at the Stratford Slow Food Market for more filling food between 10:00 and 13:00.

The Stratford Winterfest is probably the city’s most famous event. This fantastic festival is a real winter wonderland, with ice carving competitions, fat biking, sledding, and igloo building on offer. It’s incredible fun for the entire family and shouldn’t be missed.

Algonquin Provincial Park

A national park should always be part of any travel itinerary for nature lovers. Ontario doesn’t disappoint in that regard, with Algonquin Provincial Park a quintessential visit for enjoying the province’s natural beauty.

The park has a network of trails varying in difficulty and length, so bring your snowshoes and get ready for a scenic hike amongst snow-covered trees. There are also some ski trails if you’d rather slide your way around the park, with the Fen Lake Ski Trail among the popular choices.

For the adrenaline junkies, you can explore the vegetation atop a snowmobile on the Bon Echo Loop. With 200 km of pathways and diners scattered around the area, you can make this a frosty full-day escape.

Matthews Maple Syrup

Canada is renowned for its sweet Maple Syrup. You will always find a bottle of that golden elixir in our place.

During the winter months, frozen maple taffy is a must-have and Matthews Maple Syrup is the place to experience it. At Matthews Maple Syrup’s sugar shack, guests have the opportunity to learn about maple syrup production and observe maple syrup being poured onto the snow to create frozen taffy.

As spring approaches and the weather warms up, visitors can gain further insight into maple syrup production and watch how sap is collected from maple trees and transformed into maple syrup.

Huntsville and Muskoka

Muskoka and the town of Huntsville are some of the most incredible places to see in Ontario during winter. It spoils visitors with many winter activities while surrounded by beautiful trees draped in snow.

In Hunstville, you can go back to when dogs were the chosen method for sledding. The trusted husky team will take you on a winter journey through the winter wonderland in Muskoka.

If you’d rather rely on your own two feet, go ahead and cover some of the skiing trails in Muskoka. For anyone who wants to go beyond the surface, grab your snowshoes and venture deeper into the backcountry.

Some outdoor skating rinks are begging to be shredded, offering excellent skating through a snow-covered forest.

Bruce Peninsula National Park

Visiting the Bruce Peninsula National Park in winter is a great way to relax and enjoy the beauty of the snow-covered landscape. The park is surrounded by Lake Huron, offering a peaceful environment to explore on foot or cross-country skis. You can admire the majestic icicles, snow-covered trees, and cozy cabins for rent for longer stays. For those who enjoy winter activities, there are plenty of trails to explore. Pack some books and warm clothes, and you will have a memorable winter experience!

Lake Nipissing

If you’re a Canadian or have been in the country for a while, you know how popular the sport of ice fishing is. Every year, millions of people carve holes and wait with bated breath (no pun intended) to catch a big one.

For this activity, Lake Nipissing is easily one of the top places to visit in Ontario. Create a hole on top of the frozen lake, get out your rod and wait. While the cold may be an obstacle, it will be worth the amount of joy of catching a fish.

Once you’ve caught one, get back into your cabin and start working on your meal. You can sink your teeth into it or enjoy a stroll outside while admiring the lake’s landscape. Tip: Since you may be outside for a long time, layer up for the best warmth.

Mono Cliffs Provincial Park

Mono Cliffs Provincial Park is the place to go if you’re looking to experience nature and its unique winter landscapes.

This park is the perfect winter getaway with its scenic hiking trails, lookouts, and stunning rock formations. For a truly unforgettable experience, take the 1.3 km Spillway Trail and weave through vertical rock walls, frozen canyons, and caves while admiring the snow-covered trees and valley from the lookout point.

To avoid crowds, it’s best to plan your trip during the off-season and reserve a permit in advance if visiting in peak season, as parking is limited. Despite being close to Toronto, you won’t be the only one there, but it will still be a peaceful and memorable visit.

Torrance Barrens Dark Sky Preserve

The Torrance Barrens Conservation Area is ideal for sky-gazing, with its notably clear night sky, unobstructed horizon, and a limited number of trees. On a clear night, visitors to the Dark Sky Preserve can observe the Milky Way, satellites, and perhaps even shooting stars!

Final Thoughts: Places to Visit in Ontario in Winter

Ontario is a massive province with many big and small towns and cities, parks, and natural attractions. Each place has a unique profile that offers myriad winter activities in Ontario for anyone willing to brave the cold. From tubing with family and zooming down the slopes to marvelling at local art and skating outdoors, there’s no shortage of fun here.

Pack your warmest items and prepare for an incredible winter wonderland. Whether you go to Ottawa, Hamilton, the Blue Mountains, or any other destinations here, you’re in for a fulfilling, frosty time.

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