road trip southern ontario

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.

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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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7 Breathtaking Drives in Ontario: Ontario Road Trips That You’ll Love

Ontario is a province best experienced on the road. Discover the best drives in Ontario from the far north to the deep south.

Ontario is blessed with some of the most gorgeous drives in Canada. I have driven through Ontario from top to bottom on countless occasions. And I’m constantly left in awe over just how incredible some of the most beautiful drives in Ontario are.

The landscape in this province ranges from the dramatic rockiness of the Canadian Shield to the sparkling lakes of the Muskoka region, and even sub-tropical fern-filled landscapes in the region of Windsor-Essex .

The most spectacular Ontario drives don’t just pass through romantic regions such as Niagara-on-the-Lake. Some of these Ontario road trips passed through seldom-seen landscapes in Northern Ontario.

But no matter where you live or are visiting in Ontario, you’ll find some of the best drives in Ontario nearby. So fill up the gas tank and pack your snacks. Because these are the most beautiful drives in Ontario.

Incredible Scenic Drives In Ontario

Ontario is vast and beautiful. And with over 650,000 kilometres of roadway snaking through the province, you’ll find it all.

Whether you’re pairing your drive with some of the province’s incredible wineries or looking to get physical on the province’s most beautiful hikes , here are some of the best drives in Ontario.

I know that I won’t be able to get everyone’s favourite Ontario drives into this article, so if I missed one, drop a comment below to tell us your favourite Ontario road trip. Or, swing by the Ultimate Ontario Facebook community and share a photo of your trip. The Ultimate Ontario community is awesome and we would love to hear your ideas.

From Waterfalls To Vineyards On The Niagara Parkway From Niagara Falls To Niagara-On-The-Lake

The Niagara Parkway has everything you want for an Ontario road trip. This drive isn’t a long one. But what it lacks in distance, it makes up for with a combination of history, flavours, and incredible views.

The Niagara Parkway can be done in about 30-minutes. But that’s only if you want to do the drive itself. If you want to really experience one of the best Ontario drives, you’ll want to give yourself between 2-4 hours, plus anything that you want to do in Niagara Falls.

Along the Niagara the Niagara Parkway you’ll experience historic sites such as the monument to Isaac Brock and the historic homestead of Canadian hero Laura Secord .

You’ll also encounter some of the most incredible scenery in the province. This, of course, starts with the legendary Niagara Falls. But as you continue on this road trip through southern Ontario you’ll also take in some of the most beautiful views of the Niagara River.

If you’d like to take a tour while you’re in Niagara Falls, we’d highly recommend booking this helicopter tour while you’re there. But if you prefer staying closer to sea level, booking this jet boat tour is an excellent way to see the beauty of the Niagara River from the water.

As the Niagara Parkway makes its way closer to Niagara-on-the-Lake, the escarpment views change from towering cliff faces to the agricultural beauty of Niagara wine country. Along the way, you can stop for some tasty bites at one of the many roadside produce stands.

Distance: 24.1 km

Driving Time : 20 minutes

Recommended Time: 2-4 hours

Experience Ontario’s Rich History Along The Loyalist Highway And Highway 2 From Picton To Kingston

Another one of Ontario’s most beautiful drives is the Loyalist Parkway that stretches the shores of Lake Ontario. This gorgeous Lake Ontario road trip begins in the quaint Prince Edward County town of Picton.

After winding through northern Prince Edward County cheese country, road trippers will take a scenic trip on the Glenora Ferry across Lake Ontario waters before continuing along the Loyalist Parkway towards Kingston.

Along the mainland shores, you’ll experience some of Ontario’s most historic towns. Some towns, like Bath, Ontario, were settled by the United Empire Loyalists as far back as 1784. Make sure you stop at The Lodge Coffee House in Bath . Along with the blue waters of Lake Ontario, you’ll find majestic colonial homes, small-town diners, and some of the most gorgeous properties in the province.

As the drive pulls through the historic city of Kingston, you’ll find an incredible selection of restaurants. There’s everything from great local pubs to high-end fare. If you’re thinking of breaking up your Loyalist Parkway/HWY2 Ontario drive into two days, Kingston also offers a wonderful place to stop for the night.

You can also combine your visit to Kingston with incredible sites such as historic Fort Henry, the Kingston Penitentiary, and Kingston’s incredible waterfront.

Distance: 87.1 km

Driving Time: 60 minutes

Recommended Time: 3-5 hours

Wildlife And Landscapes On The Highway 60 Corridor Through Algonquin Park

There are few more iconic natural areas in Ontario than Algonquin Park. Algonquin is one of Canada’s most famous landmarks, with people from all over the world travelling to this gorgeous area near Huntsville.

The HWY 60 corridor, which passes through southern Algonquin Park could make it one of the best Ontario drives on scenery alone. But add easy access to Ontario’s most incredible natural playground, and the high likelihood of seeing local wildlife to the list, and this becomes one of the best drives in the country.

The HWY 60 corridor drive is a straight shot from the East Gate to the West Gate. But your drive can easily be extended by combining it with camping, beaches, museums, and more. A stop at the Algonquin Park Visitors Centre at kilometer 43 is a must.

Make sure to include some dips into the park roads to maximize your HWY 60 road trip. Some of the most beautiful sections lie within the dirt roads of Algonquin Park.

Along the way you may see moose, black bear, deer, bald eagles, beavers, and much more.

Distance: 56.5 km

Driving Time: 40 minutes

Recommended Time: 3-4 hours

Alternatively, if you’d like someone else to drive, and take a day tour from Toronto to Algonquin Park, booking this tour is a great idea!

Blue Waters And Towering Cliffs Of The Lake Superior Circle Tour

One of the most epic and scenic drives in Ontario is the route around the world’s largest freshwater Lake (by area), the aptly named Lake Superior.

The Lake Superior Circle Tour stretches for an incredible 2,092 kilometres. It’s far and away from the longest of the drives in Ontario on our list. However, it’s also a bit of a cheat. You see, part of the Lake Superior Circle Tour dips into the states of Minnesota, Wisconsin, and Michigan in the United States.

Don’t have a passport? No problem! It’s just as easy to circle back near the border and look for new and unique Lake Superior scenery on the way back. This route is still an epic 767 km one-way journey and is perfect for those RVing in Ontario.

With all of this road to travel, a drive along the Lake Superior Circle will have dramatic landscape changes happening before your eyes. You’ll pass lighthouses, waterfalls, sparkling lakes, and towering cliffs. And all of these will be dotted with some of the routes’ most fascinating historical markers. These include the magnificent Agawa Rock indigenous pictographs .

One of the things that make the Lake Superior Circle one of the best Ontario drives is that it can be as active, or relaxed as you would like. The drive itself is beautiful enough that you can sit back and enjoy the views. But you can also take part in incredible activities such as some of Ontario’s best hiking , biking, climbing, kayaking, and canoeing.

No matter how you tackle the Lake Superior Circle, you’ll soon realize why this greatest of lakes holds such an important place in the history and culture of Ontario.

Distance: 2,092 kilometres

Driving Time: 24 hours

Recommended Time: 5-7 days

Fishing Towns And Ferries of the Georgian Bay Coastal Route

The Georgian Bay Coastal Route is another big undertaking among the best drives in Ontario. This 1,350-kilometre route explores some of the most beautiful and accessible areas of the Great Lakes shoreline in the province.

What makes the Georgian Bay coastal route such a magical journey isn’t just the views and landscapes, and the azure waters of the Georgian Bay shores, but also the serene pace of driving through some of Ontario’s most idyllic small towns.

Georgian Bay is contained within the southeastern section of Lake Huron. And the coastal route winds through some of the Ontario heartland’s most important regions including Manitoulin Island , Sudbury, Killarney, and the Bruce Peninsula.

As you travel the Georgian Bay coastal route watch out for incredible Ontario lighthouses such as Big Tub Lighthouse in Tobermory and Kagawong Lighthouse on Manitoulin Island.

You’ll also get the chance to feel the sand between your toes at some of the best beaches in Ontario. And for those looking to take a dip, you can jump in the mystical waters of Bruce Peninsula Provincial Park’s Blue Grotto .

Distance: 1,350-kilometre

Driving Time: 10 hours

Recommended Time: 3-4 days

Visit Canada’s Southernmost Point On The Niagara Falls To Pelee Island Drive

For one of the most beautiful drives in southern Ontario, you’ll want to make sure you have an Ontario Provincial Park pass . You’ll be passing through some of the province’s most gorgeous agricultural country as you drive along the shores of Lake Erie from Niagara Falls to Pelee Island.

Along this Lake Erie coastal trail, you’ll pass some of southern Ontario’s most beautiful parks including Turkey Point, Long Point National Wildlife Area, Rondeau Park, Hillman Marsh, and, of course, the southernmost point in Canada at the tip of Point Pelee National Park .

It’s not just nature that you’ll experience on this most southern of the Ontario drives. You’ll also roll through some of the most picture-perfect towns in the province such as Port Stanley and Leamington.

Make sure you have an appetite as well because along this Ontario drive you’ll find loads of roadside food stands, produce markets, and plenty of small, locally run restaurants serving the region’s signature perch platters.

While you could continue your drive down to the border town of Windsor, Ontario to explore some of its incredible neighbourhoods such as the Ford City neighbourhood , I recommend topping it off with a ferry ride to Pelee Island, the province’s most southern wine region.

Distance: 414 kilometres

Driving Time: 6 hours 30 minutes

Recommended Time: 12 hours across two days

Hop Between Idyllic Islands On The Long Sault Parkway

The Long Sault Parkway, which skirts from island to island between the towns of Ingleside and Long Sault isn’t just one of the best drives in Ontario, it’s also one of the province’s most unique places .

This Instagram-worthy drive hops across 12 different islands in the St. Lawrence River. You can experience some of the provinces best camping on the Parks of the St. Lawrence sites. And treat yourself to some delicious small-town cooking in both Ingleside and Long Sault along the way. I highly recommend the pizza at Water View in Long Sault.

The Long Sault Parkway isn’t a long trip, but there are plenty of places to picnic along the way. It’s also a popular place for SCUBA divers exploring some of the shipwrecks in the St. Lawrence River.

Make sure you stay for some of the island chain’s legendary sunsets as well. And if you’re visiting during Canada Day, be prepared for one of the best small-town fireworks presentations in the province!

Distance: 11.6 kilometres

Driving Time: 22 minutes

Recommended Time: 2 hours

Now It’s Time to Experience These Unique Places in Ontario For Yourself!

There are countless unique places that can be found throughout Ontario. While they vary in landscape, people, and experiences, they all hold the opportunity for a truly fascinating getaway. No matter which region of Ontario you’re looking for, there’s always something awesome waiting for you.

Many of these businesses and restaurants are anxious for visitors after a tough year. So let’s support local and make the most of your Ontario glamping experience.

Do you have a favourite attraction or restaurant in Ontario? Head over to the  Ultimate Ontario Facebook Community  and join the conversation! You’ll find an amazing group of people passionate about Ontario and who love to share their local secrets.

Kevin Wagar is a founder and editor of Ultimate Ontario. He has been working in the travel media industry since 2015 when he founded his family travel website Wandering Wagars – Adventure Family Travel . Over the years Kevin has developed a deep love for his home province of Ontario and aims to showcase the incredible experiences and amazing small businesses found within it.

Monday 12th of July 2021

Like the articles, and maybe I’m missing it but you should see if you can key word search some of the subject lines. Or even if you were to # the town name people could search based on key words. I’m headed out to Torrance later on this month for a week, I knew about the dark sky reserve but was curious to know if you had any other areas of interest close by to Torrence you could recommend for some day trips, hikes or anything out that way. Travelling with my wife for her bday at the end of the month. Great Blog…signed up for the news letter

Kevin Wagar

Thursday 15th of July 2021

Hi Jeff, Thanks for the tips. We'll look into that. If you're heading out to Torrance Barrens, swing by nearby Hardy Lake Provincial Park. This non-operating park has some incredible trails to explore. And, of course, you're not too far from Gravenhurst which has some fantastic Georgian Bay boat tours.

Carol Puttock

Monday 14th of June 2021

Great suggestions! Beyond taking Hwy 60 through The Park, do you have any circular day trip route suggestions around the Haliburton/Muskoka area? We like to do convertible runs with a lunch stop with friends!

Tuesday 15th of June 2021

You could always do the Huntsville - Pembroke - North Bay - Huntsville Loop. It's about a 6.5-hour journey that takes you completely around Algonquin Park.

A shorter, but also very beautiful route would be to go Huntsville - Whitney - Bancroft - Huntsville, which is a 4.5-hour loop and has a very different feel to it.

Lyle Michener

Thursday 8th of April 2021

Outstanding and tantalizing possibilities for travelling throughout our beautiful province. With my wife who passed away in August of 2020, I have travelled many of these routes and plan to explore these again in the very near future. Your descriptions have offered new experiences to be enjoyed. Thank you so much for this wonderful service

Hello Lyle, our deepest condolences on the passing of your wife. Thank you so much for the kind words. We're thrilled to hear of your upcoming adventures. Safe and happy travels.

Privacy Overview

Road trips for US travellers

Itineraries and road trips.

One of the best ways to explore the big cities, small towns, family-friendly attractions and vast wilderness of Ontario is by packing all your essentials into your vehicle and hitting the road. Road trips give you the freedom to explore the province at your own pace while pursuing the experiences that best fit your needs and interests. 

Not sure where to start planning? Check out some of our popular itineraries that span across the entire province. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing vacation or an adrenaline-filled adventure, there’s an ideal trip waiting for you in Ontario.

Whether it’s visiting the famous Niagara Falls, exploring the numerous attractions and touring the lush wine regions, there are plenty of activities for all travellers to the Niagara Region.

Top things to do in Niagara

3-day Ontario road trip: Wine and culinary delights

15-day Ontario family road trip

4-day Ontario road trip: Niagara family fun

Classic Ontario road trip

4-day Black history road trip in Southern Ontario for families

Toronto and gta.

As Canada’s largest populated city, Toronto and the Greater Toronto Area features countless events and landmarks. Experience the CN Tower, Art Gallery of Ontario, Roy Thomson Hall and its many other attractions to see everything this city has to offer.

Toronto to Ottawa road trip

Top things to do in Toronto

3 days in Toronto

5-day Ontario road trip: Adventures, attractions and sports in and around Toronto

6-7-day Ontario road trip: Toronto to Ottawa highlight reel

The capital of Canada since 1857, Ottawa boasts numerous historical sites, landscapes, cultural attractions and natural beauty. It includes popular stops like the Parliament Building, Canadian Museum of Nature, ByWard Market, Rideau Canal and more.

11-day Canadian canoe trip

Top things to do in Ottawa

Northern ontario.

Explore the wilderness in Ontario’s large provincial parks and boreal forests. With urban centres close to nature and numerous outdoors activities available, Northern Ontario is the ideal destination for adventure lovers.

13-day adventure trip: Northern Ontario

5-7-day Ontario road trip: Lake Superior's Ontario coast

4-day Ontario road trip: Lake Superior to Lake of the Woods

4-7-day Ontario road trip: Parry Sound to Northeastern Ontario

Family friendly.

Fun and exciting entertainment across Ontario that will delight adults and kids of all ages.

Nature and water routes

Numerous lakes, rivers and streams can be found across the wilderness of Ontario. From the shores of the Great Lakes and Georgian Bay all the way to the coastline of Lake Superior in the north, explore this province’s rugged outdoor landscapes and beautiful waters.

Lakeside summer getaways in Ontario

• Read more Lakeside summer getaways in Ontario

Georgian Bay highlights tour

5-day Ontario road trip: The Blue Mountains, Wasaga Beach, Orillia and Muskoka

Charming small towns.

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Travelling from the U.S.? Discover all the memorable sights in southern Ontario, from the attraction-filled big cities in and around Toronto to the wondrous outdoor landscapes of the Niagara region.

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Life In Pleasantville

Food, Travel, Life

12 (Back) Road Trips in Ontario’s Beautiful Southwest

Road trips are a great time to reconnect….

When I hear the words road and trip, I think of rolled-down windows and off-key singing to an endless loop of tunes. 

I think of reconnecting to the person I’m travelling with and laughing at old and newly created memories.

When the opportunity to take a road trip through Southwestern Ontario’s Oxford County came my way, I knew it would give me a chance to reconnect to my past as well. 

My childhood landscape was filled with corn fields (I even had my first kiss in one) and barns and silos dotted the horizon of my day-to-day adventures. Visiting tiny towns that are nestled among gently rolling hills, would feel like going home, and it did.

My sister and I decided on a girls’ weekend theme and climbed into our kid-free/husband-free car, where we cranked some retro Barenaked Ladies  and hit the road. After a short 90 minute drive from Toronto, we pulled into Coyle’s Country Store to kick off our weekend of window shopping and dining ( one of the 12 suggested road trips that you can choose from Ontario Southwest’s website ). 

Dinner was served in the heart of town, at the well-known Niko’s Eatery & Bar. We took advantage of the Oxfordlicious set menu (offered across Oxford region to celebrate local ingredients) and filled up on Lake Erie Perch, steak and fresh steamed veggies. Niko’s has a family centred appeal, with Nonna making the baklava each week in the kitchen and that approach can be felt in both the food and warm service. 

The next stop was a highlight for both of us. September and the return to school routines is always welcome, but it also knocks you on your back in many ways. School and extracurricular activities leave little time for relaxation and escape. And the Elmhurst Inn & Spa in Ingersoll was calling to us loudly. From the moment we checked in, we could feel the zen taking over. We settled into our rooms, found our plush robes and headed down to the tranquil spa for an evening treatment.

Do you have a friend or family member whose baking sets your heart aflutter? Now imagine walking into a cozy café filled with that kind of baking. I am not exaggerating when I tell you that we started salivating as soon as we walked through the door of the Olde Bakery Café .  My sister zeroed in on the freshly baked raspberry turnovers, which she managed to hold off on until she had lunch. And lunch did not disappoint. This café is home to young culinary talent, including chef, Kate Rine (her food blog is here ), whose Portuguese Stone soup was absolutely phenomenal. The food is made in an in-house kitchen, which also features a separate and completely gluten-free baking area. Everyone knows everyone’s name, and you feel like you’re hanging out in a friend’s kitchen having coffee. We need more gathering places like this one. 

We pulled into a third-generation dairy farm and home of Gunn’s Hill Artisan Cheese , where we were treated to a tour and tasting by award-winning cheese maker and owner, Shep Ysselstein. This family owned business, in an absolutely beautiful area of Oxford County, is an Ontario (and Canadian) treasure. We wandered aisles of new and old cheese, and we learned about the flavouring and textures. It was visually stunning to see the rows of cheese. You can book tours for $5/person as long as there are five people in your group. Not only is it a fascinating learning experience, you will be rewarded with delicious samples at the end.

We finally pulled our well-fed selves into the brand new Holiday Inn Express in Woodstock , so we could powder our noses and put on our cowgirl boots for dinner at Walter’s Dinner Theatre in the beautiful town of Bright. Once again, we found ourselves travelling down a gravel road and winding our way through stunning farmlands. We pulled into Walters’ and were surprised by the number of cars and eager theatre-goers. In all my years of going to concerts, I’ve never had an experience like this one. We walked into a converted barn, with all its old-fashioned quaintness, and saw a room filled with tables for eight, clustered around a state-of-the-art stage. We were treated to a homemade meal (buffet-style and perfect for chatting with the other guests) and had the chance to share a meal with a table of strangers. Once again, we were touched by the simplicity and hospitality of being in a place where people want to know your name. The live show (which goes on after dinner) was very entertaining and the audience was delighted. Their schedule of shows changes every year, and it’s recommended that you book well in advance. 

If you’re looking for a road trip that takes you down beautiful back roads and helps you discover all that Ontario has to offer, visit the Ontario’s Southwest website for trip suggestions and tips (there are 12 different packages), as well as over 40 deals and special offers. You can also follow them on Twitter , Facebook , and Pinterest .

Disclosure: I was not compensated for this post, but I was gifted the experiences I shared with you, thanks to the generosity of Ontario’s Southwest and the destinations I visited during this road trip. The feedback and photos are my own. 

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Nice pics! It always amazes me how much i have yet to see in this beautiful province, looks like i need a road trip soon, thanks for the inspiration!

HI Mary: Thanks so much for stopping by and reading. It was honestly SO relaxing and the scenery in Southwestern Ontario (on those rolling back roads) was stunning in September. The team at Ontario Southwest Tourism has put together 12 amazing road trips to take the thinking and planning out of it for you.

With two of our kids in college & university, I am always having hubby take the back road after we drop our kids off. It is a wonderful way to find places you weren’t normally visit.

There’s also http://stonecroftfolk.com , an old farmhouse with folk concerts – the two left are Emily Flack and Lenny Gallant

I’m from the UK but I have friends in Ingersoll. I went quite a few times as a teen with my parents and this brings back some great memories of the area. My Dad could never remember the name of Tilsonburg so used to call it Tinklywinkly!

I really was blown away by the farmhouse concert. Even though it wasn’t my genre of music, it was a magical experience in an absolutely BEAUTIFUL setting. It’s lovely to hear that there are other options. Thank you for sharing.

Thanks for commenting. I absolutely love the rolling hills and farms. It’s just a beautiful and unassuming part of our province. It’s lovely to hear you have good memories from your visits to Canada 🙂

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31+ Best Ontario Road Trips: Where to Hit the Road & When [2023]

Hit the road Jack~🎶Seriously though, who doesn’t love a good road trip? Ontario has so much to offer and what better way to experience the province than with the open road? There are so many places which are best explored by a car that you’ll be missing out without one! Whether you’re looking for a weekend trip or a week-long adventure, these are the best Ontario road trips.

Below you’ll find a number of amazing Ontario road trip ideas including scenic drives, arts and culture, family-friendly destinations and more. No matter your interests, I guarantee you’ll be inspired to plan a future adventure.

Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links where I may receive a kickback at no extra cost to you. It helps keep IBB alive so thank you !

View from Above the Horseshoe Falls on a Niagara Helicopter Tour

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Top Road Trips in Ontario: Niagara Falls

Arguably the most popular of all the southern Ontario road trips, approximately 30 million people visit Niagara Falls each year. As someone who grew up in the area, I completely take the beauty of the Horseshoe Falls for granted. I mean, it’s a Canada bucket list item for so many people! While I don’t visit as often as I should, I’ve still been a number of times… meaning I have plenty of insider info so you can make the most of your Niagara Falls visit. For example, you don’t have to break the bank during your visit since there are so many  free things to do in Niagara Falls . I have even more tips in my full insider’s guide to Niagara Falls .

Are you wondering what to see and do in Niagara Falls? First, head to the Niagara Parkway where you’ll find a number of amazing things to do in this iconic Ontario road trip destination. Get up close and personal to the falls with Niagara Parks attractions like Journey Behind the Falls or their newest addition, The Tunnel . Just check out these views and you’ll see what I mean! Of course, there’s always our mini Las Vegas, Clifton Hill. There’s plenty of fun to be had and I can definitely say I’ve spent more time than I’d like to admit at the Great Canadian Midway embracing my inner child with all the games.

If you’re looking for more nature than crowds, I highly recommend heading to the Niagara Glen Nature Reserve . These hiking trails are absolutely gorgeous as you follow them through the dense Carolinian forest to the shores of the Niagara River. This is one of my favourite fall Ontario road trips as the contrast of oranges and reds against the turquoise water is just extraordinary! Though chances are you came to see the falls but what if I could you the Niagara Region is home to over 10 of them? This alone makes a perfect day trip and is a great reason to turn your day trip into a weekend adventure. Check out my guide to the waterfalls in Niagara Region for more details.

For More Ideas of Things to See & Do in Niagara Falls… Top 5 Ways to Experience the Beauty of the Niagara Gorge The Best Indoor Attractions in Niagara Falls for Those Rainy Days Top 5 Ways to Experience the Niagara Gorge Don’t Miss the Top Hiking Trails in Niagara Falls Enjoy a Natural Escape in Niagara Falls at the Heartland Forest Plan a Spring Visit to Chase Cherry Blossoms in Niagara Embrace the Snow with a Visit to the Winter Festival of Lights

Views Along the Niagara Parkway in Niagara-on-the-Lake

• Niagara-on-the-Lake

A hop, skip and jump away from Niagara Falls, you’ll find the ever-gorgeous countryside of Niagara-on-the-Lake. Chances are you’ve come here because of all the incredible wineries in Niagara BUT it’s much more than that.

It’s possible to visit both Niagara Falls and Niagara-on-the-Lake in the same trip, however I highly recommend dedicating time to each destination separately. There are so many things to do in both of these top Ontario destinations! Take it from this local, I’m always finding more to explore in both areas. It’s certainly a pet peeve of mine when people recommend visiting them both on the same day, however they can certainly both be done in one weekend. 

Park your car in the heart of town and take a stroll along adorable streets as you’re enveloped in 19th Century charm fit for the Victorian era. Grab a bite to eat at one of the many amazing restaurants in town and enjoy the views of Old Fort Niagara across the river. I also recommend hopping on a bike and enjoying some of the Niagara Parkway. At 55 km long, you’ll pass by orchards, historical buildings, wineries and more. 

Looking to Spend More Time in Niagara-on-the-Lake? Don’t Miss These Great Things to Do in Niagara-on-the-Lake Plan a Spring Visit to See the Cherry Blossoms in Niagara

View of Sherman Falls from the Bruce Trail in Ancaster

Hamilton & Dundas

The Hammer has come a long way in the past decade. While its industrial roots still hold strong, the city has plenty to offer visitors. As the waterfall capital of the world, you won’t want to miss exploring some of the best waterfalls in Hamilton . If you’re itching for some beautiful viewpoints, you can’t miss a visit to the ever-famous Dundas Peak . You don’t think of Hamilton as full of natural wonders but your mindset will quickly be changed after tackling some of the best hikes in Hamilton !

As I mentioned, the city has a fascinating history with a strong industrial heritage. Pay a visit to Dundurn Castle for a glimpse of life back in the 1800s or head to the Steam and Technology Museum. Located in the original Hamilton Waterworks building,  you’ll find the oldest surviving Canadian-built stationary steam engines. If the weather isn’t on your side, you can’t go wrong with any of these top indoor attractions in Hamilton !

If you’re a fan of things that go bump in the night, then you’ll love exploring Hamilton. As one of the older cities in what is now Canada, there are plenty of ghastly tales! From the horrific experiments of an insane asylum to the mass graves from the cholera pandemic, ghost chasers won’t want to miss these haunted spots in Hamilton .

I can’t forget to mention Hamilton’s thriving arts scene. Hamilton’s Supercrawl Festival continues to grow and grow each year and now includes year-round performances from local artists. The city also has a fantastic restaurant repertoire that’ll please even the strongest of critics. Take a look at the top restaurants in Hamilton and you’ll see what I mean. It’s easy to make a full day of it while exploring ‘Steeltown’!

See All That Hamilton Has to Offer With These Guides: Top 15 Spots for Street Art in Hamilton Best Views in Hamilton for Sunrise, Sunset & Any Time Between Experience These 10+ Amazing Art Galleries in Hamilton

Winter Hike in the Forest Behind The Hive Centre in Orono

Durham Region

There is so much natural beauty to be found just an hour away from downtown Toronto. One such area is Durham Region, making it one of the top year-round Ontario day trip destinations from Toronto. Durham Region consists of the aforementioned Clarington as well as the cities and municipalities of Ajax, Brock, Oshawa, Pickering, Scugog, Uxbridge and Whitby as well as Mississaugas of Scugog Island First Nation. weekend trips in Ontario.

Within Durham Region, you’ll find a number of incredible craft breweries, great restaurants and small town hospitality. Check out one of the beautiful conservation areas, discover a flourishing arts and culture scene and cast a line with some of the area’s fishing opportunities. Here are a few spots within Durham Region to explore.

• Town of Ajax

Did you know that you can find a taste of Europe in the town of Ajax? It’s true! Not to be confused with the City of Pickering just next door to Ajax, Pickering Village was once an original Quaker Settlement that dates back to the 1800s. Here you’ll find stunning European-style architecture that will remind you of old towns in Germany. Settle into one of the patios for a bite to eat and check out the shops in this little neighbourhood. Afterwards, head to the waterfront or Greenwood Conservation Area for some quality nature time and don’t forget to enjoy a pint of craft beer at Falcon Brewery! For a full list of ideas, check out my Ajax guide .

• Municipality of Clarington

The Municipality of Clarington is another great day trip option from Toronto. Small town enthusiasts will enjoy the area as there are a number of adorable town clusters like Orono and Bowmanville. You’ll find antique markets, great craft beer, delicious restaurants and more. Plus you have Darlington Provincial Park where you can enjoy some quality beach time and the perfect spot to catch a sunset over Lake Ontario! You can even visit an old POW camp … if you dare! Whatever you choose to do, I guarantee you’ll have a memorable time in Durham Region. Take a look at my Clarington guide for some more Ontario road trip ideas in this area.

• Lake Scugog

Another fantastic destination is Lake Scugog during the summer months. A popular spot for both locals and visitors alike, many head to Port Perry which is located right on the lakeshore. The town itself is picturesque with beautiful architecture, fantastic restaurants, boutique shops and a number of talented artists. Afterwards, you can walk right to the waterfront and enjoy the lake views. Many bring their boats or get out for a paddle to experience the lake from the water. It’s also a great starting point to explore this adorable rural area with the Sideroads of Scugog trail! Check out my guide to Lake Scugog for more information.

Lake Ontario Views From Waupoos Estates Winery in Prince Edward County

• Prince Edward County

Just 90 minutes east along highway 401 and you’ll see signs for Trenton and Carrying Place, leading you to the getaway for Prince Edward County! It’s comprised of nine townships each with something unique to offer visitors exploring the area. Prince Edward County is home to over 30 wineries just waiting to share their vintages with you. You’ll also find a number of art galleries and historical buildings for the more culturally inclined. With some wellness retreats and even a lavender farm , you can easily find a little peace and quiet during this Ontario road trip.

If you’re a cyclist, you’ll definitely want to bring your bike and tackle the Millennium Trail through sprawling vineyards past century farms. There’s even an alpaca farm which is sure to be a treat no matter how old you are!

Prince Edward County is home to not one but three provincial parks:  Sandbanks Provincial Park , home to beautiful sandy beaches; its smaller, calmer sibling at North Beach; and Lake on the Mountain – home to the mysterious body of freshwater with no apparent source. Any of these parks are great for a family outing filled with swimming and picnics. Don’t feel like making anything? That’s perfectly fine as there are plenty of food trucks and restaurants throughout Prince Edward County!

Whether you come for the unique geological formations of PEC’s provincial parks or to do some touring of the area’s wineries, Prince Edward County is the perfect way to escape for a day.

A Sunny Autumn Day in Kitchener’s Victoria Park

• Waterloo Region

I can’t forget to include my old stomping grounds in Waterloo Region! Kitchener, Waterloo and Cambridge have so much to do in each of them that you could easily spend a day in every city. They all have an amazing number of outdoor spaces, incredible eats and amazing craft breweries .

Kitchener is my favourite of the three, though I might be a little biased since that’s where I used to live. Previously known as Berlin, Kitchener has seen a huge transformation over the past decade. I remember when I first moved to the areafor school that you never step foot in the city unless it was to go to the bus terminal or for a show at Elements. Now you’ll find a number of incredible restaurants in downtown Kitchener , an old school arcade bar, plenty of patios and even a speakeasy! The warmer weather also brings out Waterloo Region’s top-notch food truck scene which I highly recommend you indulge in whenever you’re in town.

Downtown Kitchener has become a truly experimental space where entrepreneurs of all kinds take an idea and run with it which has created a creative community of unique businesses that make Kitchener stand out from other cities in Waterloo Region. There’s even a beautiful park just minutes from the downtown core. Kitchener has a number of great trails for those looking for a breath of fresh air in the city!

If You’re Looking for More Trails… Check Out These Great Hikes in Waterloo Stretch Your Legs with These Top Trails in Cambridge

If you’re going to come for anything though, I highly recommend paying us a visit during Oktoberfest. It’s the largest one outside of Germany and always draws a big crowd every year! Though it guarantees your day trip will be turned into a weekend getaway .

Sunset Views Along the Thames River in Mitchell, Ontario

• Perth County

Looking for a small town getaway? Just an hour past Kitchener, you’ll find plenty of country fun in Perth County! Chances are you’ve heard of it (though you may not know it!) as this is where you’ll find Stratford, Ontario. You’ll know this town for one of two reasons – the first being the incredible Shakespearean prowess of the Stratford Festival and the second… Justin Bieber. Can you tell I’m a little reluctant to include the latter reason?

There are some incredible adventures waiting for you in Perth County! Have you ever heard of a demonstration forest? How about getting some in-season produce from a farm gate? Don’t forget some traditional Mennonite cooking to keep you fuelled up – and that’s just scratching the surface! Take a more in-depth look at all the fun things to do in Perth County but be warned… you’ll want to turn your day trip into a weekend after reading it.

Even if you’re not a fan of Shakespeare, Stratford is one of the best Ontario road trips from Toronto. It’s bursting with public art, has plenty of great restaurants, fantastic boutique shops and the picturesque Avon River runs through town. Stratford is so easy to explore, especially with the tourism board’s nine self-guided audio tours! I absolutely loved the Stratford Garden Tour but the Bronze Stars of Stratford tour focusing on the city’s talent is fantastic s well as the Epitaphs and Headstones tour that tells you all about the city’s haunted side! Of course, no trip to Stratford is complete without experiencing part of the Chocolate Trail. All the details are in my Stratford guide !

One of the Many Beautiful Lookouts over Georgian Bay in the Blue Mountains

Ontario Weekend Road Trips: South Georgian Bay

Collingwood, The Blue Mountains, Owen Sound – oh my! The southern shore of Georgian Bay is full of adventure opportunities. Grey County has plenty to offer with its incredible waterfalls  and natural getaways. It’s also a great destination for scenic drives near Toronto with a number of winding county roads.

Looking for Great Views Along Georgian Bay? These Incredible Lookouts Offer Some of the Best Views!

The Blue Mountains are a prime winter destination for those looking for great powder in Ontario. Those aforementioned waterfalls are fierce in the spring thaw and extra gorgeous while surrounded by fall foliage. Apple picking, watching the salmon spawn and a gathering of scarecrows make this a perfect autumn getaway .

The outdoors are calling with a plethora of hikes, the odd golf course and plenty of beautiful Georgian Bay coastline to enjoy in the summer months. To top it all off, Grey County is a budding wine region offering unique vintages thanks to the area’s terroir. You can even stay at one of the wineries if you choose to make this a weekend trip! As you can see, South Georgian Bay is a destination for all seasons .

I’m reluctant to mention Wasaga for a few reasons. The first, it’s often over-run by party people and that’s honestly not a reason for me to take a road trip. Second, there is very little open unless it’s peak season. It’s really unfortunate as it could be a year-round destination with the provincial park there but alas, that’s not the case. Though if you really want peace and quiet, that may be the time to go!

You’ll Be Blown Away By the Sheer Size and Power of Lock 21 in Peterborough!

Peterborough & The Kawarthas

Okay, so Peterborough can definitely be done as a day trip from Toronto but you’ll honestly want to plan to spend a weekend . As the ‘Gateway to The Kawarthas’, Peterborough and the surrounding area is the perfect mix of city life with pristine nature.

One of the city’s premier attractions is Lock 21 , the world’s largest hydraulic lift lock. Even if you’re not an architecture or engineering nerd, you’ll be impressed by the sheer power of it! While it’s awesome to see it in action from the shore, you need to hop on a  Liftlock Cruise and experience it for yourself.

No trip to Peterborough is complete without a visit to the  Canadian Canoe Museum . It is home to the world’s largest collection of canoes, kayaks and paddled watercrafts. Spend a few hours exploring and learning about their Indigenous origins and how they have transformed over the years. Chances are it’ll inspire you to get out on the water which you can do right in the heart of Peterborough. Bring your own kayak or rent one and get out for a paddle on Little Lake !

RELATED:  A weekend honestly isn’t even long enough to get a true taste. Check out my guide to all of the incredible things to do in Peterborough and The Kawarthas – you’ll see what I mean!

While I can’t recommend exploring neighbouring areas such as Curve Lake, Buckhorn, Lakefield, and Petroglyphs Provincial Park, you can find a solid dose of nature right in the city. Grab a coffee and enjoy a gorgeous walk along the Trans Canada Trail as it follows the Otonabee River. There are also tons of great hikes on the outskirts of town if you’re really looking to get the blood pumping!

I haven’t even gotten to all of the incredible restaurants you’ll find in Peterborough. You wouldn’t expect this but it has one of the highest ratios of restaurants to population per capita! Foodies, that means more incredible eats than you’ll know what to deal with, so be prepared to plan a few overnight stays to eat your way across the city.

Napanee Falls Just After Sunset

Bay of Quinte

Nestled along the shores of Lake Ontario, the Bay of Quinte is home to five distinct communities. Each one certainly deserves at least a day dedicated to it, however the area itself makes for the perfect weekend road trip in Ontario! Meander around Brighton, Quinte West, Belleville, Tyendinaga and Napanee for a memorable Ontario weekend getaway.

Napanee may have been put on the map by Ontario punk princess Avril Lavigne, but the town deserves recognition in its own right. Stroll through town to admire the historical buildings and enjoy the riverfront views along the Riverwalk and the stunning Napanee Falls. Just steps from Napanee’s main street, pop into the local shops, fantastic cafes and tasty restaurants that dot the downtown core. Good eatin’ is always important so be sure to eat at these top Napanee restaurants . I’m barely scratching the surface here though so check out my full guide to Napanee for even more fun things to do in the area!

• Tyendinaga Mohawk Territory

Of all the spots in the Bay of Quinte, I have to say Tyendinaga is my favourite. This is one upcoming tourism destination that you don’t want to miss! There are a number of young entrepreneurs and talented artisans that are sharing their craft in the area. Plus this is where you’ll find the Lil Crow Cabin complex and home to some of the cutest accommodations you’ll find in Ontario. Their pods are so cozy and the cabin features a hot tub, a dedicated wellness area and more on this gorgeous waterfront property! Don’t forget to stop by the Coffee Shop Cafe on Highway 49 for a croiffle. Don’t know what that is? Read my guide to the Bay of Quinte to find out!

Views of Ottawa from Inside the Parliament Buildings

Best Road Trips Ontario: Ottawa

A trip to Canada’s capital city is always a great idea! Plan to stay in the heart of the city so you can leave your car behind. Downtown Ottawa is extremely walkable which is one of the reasons I love visiting! Plus there are so many things to do for all interests and ages.

Get your bearings by exploring downtown with your first stop being the Byward Market . There are a number of great shops, restaurants and of course, a BeaverTail! No trip to Ottawa is complete without that iconic treat. If you’re a history buff (or just interested in catching a glimpse of Canada’s inner workings), take a guided tour of the Parliament buildings. The National Gallery of Canada is not to be missed, especially since it was updated for Canada’s 150th birthday back in 2017.

Don’t forget a stroll along the Trans Canada Trail as it follows the Rideau Canal . Snap an iconic photo of Ottawa’s skyline from the Alexandra Bridge Lookout at Nepean Point. When your feet get tired, this is when you’ll want to hop in your car and enjoy some quality spa time just across the provincial border at Nordik Spa-Nature in Chelsea, Quebec. I haven’t visited this location but if it’s anything like their sister property Thermëa in Winnipeg … you won’t want to leave.

That’s just the tip of the iceberg! I haven’t even talked about the plethora of museums, the Cold War bunker or the old jail turned hostel. In a city of just under a million people, you know there’s plenty more to explore.

One of the Many Beautiful Homes You Can See When Touring the 1000 Islands

• Thousand Islands

Just three hours from Toronto, you’ll find the famous cluster of islands along the St Lawrence River. The Thousand Islands (or 1000 Islands, they’re used interchangeably) is actually comprised of over 1800 islands which straddle the Canadian and US border. As you can imagine, it has plenty of adventure to offer both on land and in the water!

First things first, I  highly recommend taking a Thousand Islands cruise . This is something you’ll want to book early in the morning before the big bus tours come. I mean, there are worse things than starting your day off with a beautiful tour of this gorgeous archipelago! Some of the highlights include the smallest international bridge as well as the ever-famous Boldt Castle on Heart Island. There are a number of options available with multiple departure points from Kingston to Brockville. If you’re looking for departures from the American side, you can book a 3.5 hour tour here which stops at Boldt Castle and a 5 hour tour here that additionally visits the Rock Island Lighthouse.

The Heart of the Adorable Town of Gananoque, A Great Ontario Road Trip Destination

Best Road Trips in Ontario: Gananoque

Speaking of the 1000 Islands, if you’re a fan of charming small towns then you need to plan a visit to Gananoque! It’s the perfect spot to call home base as you explore the Thousand Islands.

The heart of town is absolutely adorable with plenty of great local shops and restaurants. Gananoque is also the place to be if you’re looking to take a closer look at the Thousand Islands! Hop on either a half-day or full-day kayaking tour so you can experience Thousand Islands National Park from the water in a more intimate way.

Or if you’d rather opt for a thrilling ride, take to the skies with a helicopter tour ! You’ll be blown away by the incredible views over Alexandria Bay. It might be hard to stay focused as you’re admiring the sights around you but be sure to listen to your pilot as they’ll have plenty of interesting tidbits to offer about the area. Click here to book your tour now !

If you’re looking for a small town Ontario road trip destination to add to your list, Gananoque is definitely a great option. For more ideas of things to do, check out my full guide to Gananoque !

Some of the Iconic Windswept Pines You’ll find in Georgian Bay Islands National Park

Top Road Trips from Toronto: Muskoka

Its natural landscapes are what brought the Group of Seven to the area and many more people since then. Muskoka is a beautiful natural getaway that any nature lover will appreciate. Full of small towns that boast plenty of charm, you can’t go wrong with a weekend in Muskoka.

Spanning almost 4000km², you’ll find the turquoise waters of Georgian Bay in the west. You won’t want to miss a trip to Georgian Bay Islands National Park in the warmer months. Hop on the DayTripper which will take you to this pristine landscape as you walk along the beautiful Canadian shield while admiring the iconic Eastern White Pines. In the east, you’ll find Ontario’s very first provincial park. I wouldn’t be surprised to hear Algonquin referred to as one of the top 10 places to visit in Ontario. Personally, I haven’t spent nearly enough time in the park but the little that I have seen was beautiful!

Huntsville makes the perfect home base to explore both the aforementioned parks as well as Arrowhead Provincial Park . There are also a number of incredible restaurants, adorable shops and delicious craft beer. Huntsville can be quite busy in the summer so I recommend planning a mid-week trip during peak season. Or there’s always an off-season weekend adventure !

No Trip to Sudbury is Complete Without a Visit to the Big Nickel!

Ontario Road Trip Ideas: Sudbury

I’ve had the pleasure of exploring Sudbury a number of times, usually as part of a larger Northern Ontario adventure. That being said, Sudbury is easily a fantastic destination all on its own!

Who doesn’t love a good oversized attraction? Sudbury is home to the Big Nickel which I always love passing by to see, no matter how many times I visit. You’ll find it at the site of Dynamic Earth , an interactive earth sciences museum focusing on Sudbury’s mining heritage, history, and geology. This is run by Science North, another must-visit attraction in the city. Inside you’ll see just how cool science is with a number of interactive exhibits that are fun for all ages. Science North sits on the southwestern shore of Ramsey Lake. In the winter, this is where you’ll find one of the popular skating trails you’ll find in Ontario ! There’s plenty of winter fun to be had in Sudbury .

As you can imagine, Sudbury is home to plenty of outdoor fun in all seasons. Follow the Bell Park Boardwalk from Science North towards downtown and you’ll pass by Canada’s largest mural which has taken over the old Sudbury General Hospital. Keep walking into downtown Sudbury where a plethora of street art will greet you along many of the city streets. At the other end of Ramsey Lake, you’ll find the Lake Laurentian Conservation Area with plenty of awesome hiking trails as well as winter trails for the colder months.

Combine all of this with a number of amazing restaurants and you’ve got the recipe for a fantastic weekend! Check out some of these hotels and plan your weekend getaway in Sudbury .

Views of the Flowerpots on a Sightseeing Cruise from Tobermory

Beautiful Places in Ontario: Tobermory

With turquoise waters that rival the beauty of the Caribbean, Tobermory is easily one of the most popular summer road trip destinations in Ontario. Locals and visitors alike descend upon this tiny town, meaning you’ll need to plan well in advance if you’re looking to visit during peak season.

Why do so many plan a visit to Tobermory? There are a number of reasons! The natural beauty of Bruce Peninsula National Park and Fathom Five draw many people – myself included. You won’t want to miss a trip to Flowerpot Island to see these incredible geological formations up close. There’s also a sunset cruise on the Chi Cheemaun if you’d like to enjoy some of that beauty from the water.

RELATED: Is Tobermory on your must-visit list? Don’t miss my guide where I’ll give you the full lowdown on all the things to do in Tobermory .

In my honest opinion though? Don’t visit in the summer. I say visit either in May or early June while the weather is warming up and before the kids are out of school. An even better option? Go after the Labour Day weekend which is normally the first weekend in September. Everything in Tobermory normally stays open for a few weekends past this and it means you’ll still have summer-like weather and the crowds will easily be cut in half.

Or if you are going to visit in the summer, stay further south. On your way from Toronto, you’ll pass right by the little town of Wiarton which makes a fantastic home base for exploring the Bruce Peninsula. You won’t have the insane crowds to contend with in Tobermory, there are plenty of great eats and you’ll be paying much less for your accommodation. You’re trying to get away from the insanity of the city after all!

Plus on the Lake Huron side in Oliphant, you can go on a tour and snorkel local shipwrecks . How amazing is that?! Trust me when I say you’ll enjoy your getaway much more by staying in Wiarton and driving a little to get to Tobermory than staying in the busy-busy of this overrun town. Convinced? Take a closer look at Wiarton and get planning your summer Ontario road trip.

Enjoy a Stroll Along the Boardwalk in Point Pelee National Park

Windsor & Essex County

When your answer to “what did you do this weekend?” is I went to the furthest point in mainland Canada, you know you had a great trip!

That’s right, Essex County is home to Point Pelee National Park at the southernmost tip of Ontario. A year-round destination, it has something to offer visitors of all ages. With beautiful ice formations come winter, bird watching in the spring, and long stretches of beach perfect for summer, you’ll always have an incredible visit. Though if you’re going to go at any time, I recommend the fall to catch a glimpse of the Monarch butterflies as they migrate to Mexico!

If you know of any city in the county, chances are it’s Windsor, Ontario. You may have visited Caesar’s Palace for a weekend of adult fun, but the city has plenty more to offer. Take a stroll around downtown to hunt for street art. When you get thirsty, pop into one of the many craft breweries around the city. If you’d like to enjoy the countryside, hop in your car and drive to one of the wonderful wineries in Essex County . Visit some of the small towns and indulge in some yummy eats or visit a provincial park. There are so many great things to do in Windsor and Essex County that you’ll need a few weekends to see it all!

Enjoy Some of the Best Views on Manitoulin Island from the Cup and Saucer Trail

• Manitoulin Island

Did you know Ontario is home to the largest freshwater island in the world? If you didn’t, you’re not alone as I’d say 1 in 2 Ontarians have no clue. Okay, I totally made that up but it’s crazy how many people don’t realize Manitoulin Island exists!

It took me way longer than I’d like to admit to finally visit but it was surely worth the wait. Manitoulin Island is one of the most interesting places in Ontario by far with plenty of small town hospitality, incredible cultural experiences, lots of great eats and most importantly: plenty of natural beauty. From the province’s top art gallery at Perivale to Indigenous experiences in Wikwemikong , you have to check out all the amazing things to do on Manitoulin Island . The list alone will have you staying for at least a week!

When planning your stay, I’d highly recommend booking accommodation close to the middle of the island. Manitoulin doesn’t seem that big when you look at it but when you’re driving, you quickly realize why it’s the largest freshwater island. Getting from one end of Manitoulin to the other takes about three hours. By staying in the middle, you’ll shave off travel time aka less driving, more exploring. Providence Bay or Mindemoya are great options for accommodation.

Take In the Breathtaking Sights and History at Lake Superior Provincial Park

Sault Ste Marie & Lake Superior

This is easily one of the best places to go in Ontario, though I might be a little biased. I absolutely fell in love with Sault Ste Marie and the surrounding area since my first visit in August 2017.

Known traditionally as Bawating meaning ‘place of the rapids’ in Ojibway, the water has always played an important part for the city. It’s a gateway for the natural beauty of Lake Superior and offers a number of incredible museums and art galleries. Sault Ste Marie is home to the famous Agawa Canyon Tour Train which people come from all over the world to experience. This iconic train ride will take you into the heart of Algoma Country where you’ll begin to understand why the Group of Seven were so enamoured with the area.

RELATED: Sault Ste Marie also has no shortage of amazing places to eat! Fuel up “Soo-style” at these top restaurants in Sault Ste Marie .

If outdoor exploration is the name of your game, Sault Ste Marie is the perfect home base. Head north along the Trans Canada and experience the beauty of the Lake Superior Coastal Drive . It’s one of the top northern Ontario scenic drives for a reason! There are a number of incredible hikes in both Pancake Bay and Lake Superior Provincial Parks which will keep you busy for days. Closer to town there’s also the Hiawatha Highlands, home to the ever beautiful Crystal Falls .

The Soo is a destination for all seasons, especially if you’re an outdoor wanderer. I honestly can’t believe I haven’t written an in-depth guide for Sault Ste Marie yet so you’ll have to stay tuned! Until then, take a look at my post from when I first visited Northern Ontario for more in-depth information about the cities attractions as well as this list of awesome winter activities to experience in Sault Ste Marie .

Views of the Sleeping Giant from The Bluffs in Thunder Bay

Best Scenic Road Trips in Ontario: Thunder Bay

Thunder Bay is the last larger city you’ll find along the Trans Canada Highway before you hit Manitoba. It’s quite the trek from Sault Ste Marie as it’s an 8 hour drive but you’ll be treated to plenty of natural beauty along the way. I mean it when I say this stretch is one of the best drives in Ontario!

If Thunder Bay is on your Ontario road trips list, chances are it’s because of Kakabeka Falls . It’s known as the ‘Niagara of the North’ and a huge draw for visitors, but there are a number of gorgeous waterfalls around Thunder Bay you’ll want to add to your itinerary. The other major destination is Sleeping Giant Provincial Park . Hike to the Top of the Giant for some of the best views in Northwestern Ontario, say hello to the famous ‘sea lion’ and enjoy being at one with nature. Mind you both of these destinations are outside of town, so don’t forget to spend some time enjoy the awesome things to do in Thunder Bay .

You wouldn’t expect it but Thunder Bay has branded itself a foodie haven . With classic diners, upscale restaurants and everything in between (even vegan eats!), you won’t go hungry. Two of the city’s famous eats are their Persian doughnuts and their Finnish pancakes. My mouth is watering just thinking about trying them! Don’t forget to wash them down at the local craft brewery afterwards. As you can see, you’ll need at least a few days to explore everything so settle into Thunder Bay for a taste of the north.

Mikisew is One Stunning Provincial Park!

Ontario Provincial Parks

You may have noticed that there are a few scattered throughout this article and honestly, an Ontario road trip to a provincial park is always a good idea. With over 100 operating provincial parks that offer hiking trails, camping, and other fun activities, there are an overwhelming amount of options! Here are a few of my top recommendations so you can enjoy the best road trip in Ontario and you can check out all of my Ontario Parks guides here .

• Rondeau Provincial Park

The second oldest provincial park in Ontario, Rondeau is a lesser-known camping destination that should not be scoffed at. Protecting over 3200 hectares of important ecosystems, you can explore them via over 15 kilometres of hiking trails, paddling Rondeau Bay, and camping at one of the over 260 available sites. Soak up the sun on the beach, go for a bike ride and pop by the visitors’ centre to learn more about the importance of this area. You can find out more in my Rondeau Provincial Park guide !

• Mikisew Provincial Park

This park might be small but it sure is mighty! Here you’ll find six hiking trails, four beaches, over 250 campsites and an 18 hole disc golf course. Thanks to its location on Eagle Lake, you can drop your boat in, go for a paddle and cast a line to see if you can catch your dinner! I absolutely loved my few days here and would go back again in a heartbeat. Click here to read about my Mikisew experience !

• Long Point Provincial Park

Long Point Provincial Park is one of the most popular in the summer months. It’s home to some of the best beaches in Ontario and is a popular spot for fishing and paddling. Families will love this park as well since the shoreline is shallow and Long Point offers a discover program that the kids will adore. Add the fact that this park is a great home base for exploring the shores of Lake Erie and you’ve got yourself a fantastic Ontario road trip destination! Find out all the ins and outs of this park by checking out my Long Point Provincial Park guide .

One of the Beautiful Sunflower Fields Near Grand Bend

What About Some Surprise Day Trips in Ontario?

With already so many options for a day trip, you might be feeling a little overwhelmed. What if I told you there was the option of having a surprise trip delivered to your doorstep? With  Guess Where Trips , all the planning is done for you – just hop in your car and you’re on your way!

Head to their website and choose from their available tours based on your trip style. Looking for an outdoor adventure? How about a little wine action? Would you prefer some indoor comforts? Guess Where Trips has you covered! You can also choose to fill out their travel questionnaire and they’ll pick a trip for you that I guarantee you’ll adore. Whether you’re looking for a family getaway, a romantic adventure, an awesome girls’ trip, or some solo exploration, these itineraries will ensure you have a memorable escape.

Once you’ve selected your trip, Guess Where Trips will mail you a package where you’ll receive 5-6 envelopes. Within them, you’ll find your instructions on what to see and where to go for your surprise adventure! Be sure to open the travel details envelope before you go as this will tell you everything you need to pack to fully enjoy your adventure. After that, it’s having the willpower not to open all the envelopes to find out where you’re going!

Views of the McKay Island Lighthouse from the Water of Lake Huron

Multi-Destination Ontario Road Trips

Oh yes, there are plenty more Ontario destinations just waiting for an epic road trip! With these destinations being more than 5 hours from Toronto, I highly recommend making an extended trip out of them. You can even chain a few of these destinations together for one epic Ontario road trip itinerary. This section also includes some of the best road trip destinations from Toronto (in my opinion) so I highly recommend checking them out!

If you’re looking for what I’d say is the best of these Ontario road trips… I’d combine them all. Yes, you’ll need a few weeks to fully enjoy a Toronto to Thunder Bay road trip but it’s one you will NOT forget! Honestly, I consider this Northern Ontario road trip to be one of the best road trips in Ontario.

First I’d say head to Tobermory and take the Chi Cheemaun ferry to Manitoulin Island. Spend 3-4 days here fully exploring the island before continuing along Highway 6 to meet up with the Trans Canada Highway. Stop in at Chutes Provincial Park for some waterfall action along the way. Now you can head all the way to Sault Ste Marie, however I’d recommend enjoying a few of the stops between Sudbury and Sault Ste Marie – like popping by the town of Bruce Mines. Why? You can stay overnight in a lighthouse at Bruce Bay Cottages! I’d say that’s worth stopping for – if you can manage to snag a night there!

Continue north to my “second home” of Sault Ste Marie. Now your time here can vary but I’d say spend at least 3-4 days to explore the city proper. Then you can either choose to stay in town and plan some hiking day trips up the coast of Lake Superior at the provincial parks or you can stay at rental properties along the way. I’d recommend spending a night in White River or Marathon to break up your drive and so you can stop in at Pukaskwa National Park . From Marathon to Thunder Bay it’s about 3.5 hours. You’ll pass by Neys Provincial Park along the way which you may want to plan a stop at. Upon arriving in Thunder Bay, you’ll want a few days to tackle everything I mentioned above as well as put your feet up before turning around and making the trek back south.

RELATED: Looking for a more in-depth guide to this route? Don’t miss my recommendations of where to stop between Sault Ste Marie and Thunder Bay !

You’ll certainly want to spend at least a week exploring this stretch as it is easily one of the best scenic drives in Ontario… maybe even one of the best road trips in Canada. As you can imagine, you can make this trip as short or long as you want. You can also save a few of the aforementioned stops (and any others that may pique your interest!) for the return journey.

Once you’re heading south past Sault Ste Marie and towards Manitoulin, I’d recommend taking the Trans Canada all the way if you’ve already explored the island. This way you can stop by French River Provincial Park for a hike to stretch your legs while on your way to what I’d say is your last stop on this crazy Northern Ontario road trip – Killarney Provincial Park . This route alone would take at least three weeks to be done right but it will take you some of the best places in Ontario to visit.

Just Some of the Breathtaking Scenery You’ll Enjoy Along the Lake Superior Coastal Drive

When Should I Go On My Ontario Road Trip?

Chances are you’ll explore Ontario in summer since that’s prime road trip weather but they really are the perfect travel plan for any season. However, some destinations offer some extra magic depending on the season. Here are some of my suggestions on what destinations you should visit depending on the time of year!

Where Should I Go For Spring in Ontario?

Spring means those April showers bring May flowers… and cherry blossoms. Yes, that’s right – we have a plethora of cherry blossom locations across the province where you can enjoy these ephemeral beauties. The majority of them are in Southern Ontario so if you’re coming from the north, you’ll have a bit of a trek ahead of you! So, where should you go for a spring Ontario road trip?

The Royal Botanical Gardens

Located on the border of Hamilton and Burlington, the Royal Botanical Gardens have a beautiful collection of cherry trees. Within RBG’s Rock Garden, you’ll find the very unique Prunus ‘Asagi’. While most cherry blossoms are either pink or white, these blossoms are greenish-yellow in colour. This tree is so unique that it’s the only one found in Canada! As you can imagine, spring is a fantastic time of year to visit as a number of their flowers are flourishing. Be sure to check out RBG’s bloom calendar and plan your visit accordingly!

Toronto’s High Park

This is probably the mecca of all cherry blossom collections within Ontario. High Park is home to the largest concentration of cherry trees thanks to a generous donation from the Japanese ambassador to Canada in 1959. The majority of these 2000 donated trees were planted in High Park. You’ll find them in three different locations with the largest cluster being at Hillside Gardens.

Spring Means the Cherry Blossoms Are In Bloom at Toronto’s High Park

How About an Autumn Road Trip in Ontario?

Sweater weather means the air is crisp as we’re on the cusp of winter. Break out the scarves, a toasty drink and let’s hit the road to do some leaf-peeping ! Any of the destinations listed above will make a great autumn getaway, but a few places are extra special to visit during fall.

RELATED: If you’re wondering what you should do to truly experience fall in Ontario, be sure to check out my guide !

Grey County

I hinted at some of the fall fun you can have in Grey County earlier in this post, but here’s where I’ll explicitly say it. Grey County is a fantastic autumn destination ! Start your day with some apple picking at one of the local orchards. You’ll definitely want to enjoy the windy roads of the Beaver Valley as you admire the gorgeous fall colours. Starting to feel a little parched? There are a number of great Ontario cideries in the area to quench your thirst. If you find yourself in Meaford between mid-September to mid-October, don’t be frightened as the scarecrows that invade are very friendly! Grey County is a great spot for families of all ages to enjoy some autumn fun.

Let’s be honest – cottage country is always a good idea. Muskoka is home to a number of fall gems including the Bala Cranberry Festival , plenty of scenic hikes and much more.

If you talk to anyone in Southern Ontario and ask them where to go in the fall, chances are they’ll say Algonquin Provincial Park . While I have never been to Algonquin in the autumn months, it’s common knowledge that it’s one of the most scenic places in Ontario. Add the beauty of the autumn colours and you’ve got a match made in heaven! As a result though, it’s one of the most popular destinations in the fall. You’ll want to go early to avoid the crowds, especially as there are a number of bus tours that come in from Toronto.

Lake Superior Provincial Park

It’s a much longer drive but Mother Nature will reward you with incredible sweeping views of Lake Superior . Stop in Sault Ste Marie and pop by to say hello to Crystal Falls in the Hiawatha Highlands . Afterwards, follow the Trans Canada Highway north with a quick pitstop at Chippewa Falls. It’s the middle of this coast to coast highway after all! Then enjoy the stellar views as the highway winds along the Lake Superior coastal drive. There’s a reason why it’s one of the most scenic routes in Ontario Canada!

No trip would be complete without some great hikes. See if the waters will be calm enough so you can say hello to Mishipeshu at Agawa Rock . If you’re an avid waterfall chaser like myself, you can’t miss the Pinguisibi trail and Sand River Falls . Hunting for fantastic views? Check out the beach at Old Woman Bay and then head across the street to tackle the Nokomis Trail .

Feel Like You’re in a Hallmark Movie in the Town of Niagara-on-the-Lake

What About a Winter Ontario Road Trip?

I love a good winter road trip. It’s seriously one of my favourite ways to enjoy winter in Ontario . You just need to make sure you’re prepared! I highly recommend ensuring your car has winter tires, especially if you’re renting a car . All-season tires are ineffective as of -7°C (~20°F) and can lead to a higher chance of accidents when the weather turns sour. Ontario winters can really be difficult with high fluctuations of temperature, sudden snowstorms and more so it’s best to be prepared! Be sure to give yourself more time when travelling and don’t forget to take the short days into account. However, that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t go for it. I’m all about winter travel and can recommend a number of great winter destinations for some epic Ontario road trips!

As I mentioned earlier, Niagara-on-the-Lake is a tourism hot spot and easily one of the popular places in Ontario to visit. While most flock to its picturesque beauty in the warmer months, it’s also home to the  Niagara Icewine Festival . Downtown NOTL is transformed into a beautiful winter wonderland as you sip on wine, enjoy live music and indulge in local eats and treats. I’d highly recommend it as a romantic winter getaway! Take a look at my Niagara Icewine Festival post for more details about what you expect and where to stay.

Winter Camping at a Provincial Park

Many might think camping is only for the summer and fall but trust me, winter camping is awesome. I can count on one hand how many times I’ve camped and half of that was winter camping! Many of Ontario’s provincial parks are quickly booked for the warmer months, especially if you want to spend a night in a cabin or yurt. Luckily you’ll have a lot more availability in the winter and it’s a great way to slowly introduce yourself to winter camping!

If you’re looking to leave the big city lights behind and check out nature’s lights,  Killarney Provincial Park is the perfect destination. Four hours from Toronto, the stars will light up the night sky as Killarney is the province’s first provincial park to be designated as a dark sky preserve. I had the pleasure of winter camping in one of their yurts and I slept like a baby every night! Plus you’ll be able to trek up to one of Ontario’s top hiking trails, The Crack, with little (if any) people. If you need to reset and relax, Killarney is the perfect place for an Ontario winter road trip.

Another awesome winter destination is  Windy Lake Provincial Park . If you’re an avid angler or just want to try your hand at ice fishing, this is the only park where you can rent all the gear you need right from the park! With four yurts and two cabins, you’ll be nice and toasty after a day out on the ice. The park also offers over 15km of cross-country ski trails thanks to the Onaping Falls Ski Club. Don’t have skis? They’ve got you covered as there are rentals available! Pair this with snowshoeing and you’ve got yourself the perfect Ontario winter destination! Take a look at my post about Windy Lake Provincial Park for more details. Also, don’t forget to spend a day or two in Sudbury since you’re already close by!

Views of Lake Superior from the Alona Bay Lookout

What About Road Trips From Ontario?

There are plenty of destinations beyond Ontario’s borders that make a fantastic road trip from Toronto! If you’re craving poutine then I highly recommend a trip to Montréal . Just a few hours beyond you’ll find Québec City which will give you a taste of Europe without leaving Canada.

Looking to cross the border into the United States? Detroit is easy to combine with a road trip to Windsor and Essex County . Or you can hit the road in the opposite direction and say hello to New York State. There’s plenty to do in Buffalo, the Finger Lakes, Rochester or if you’re really adventurous there’s always New York City! Though I’d personally recommend heading a little further south to Pennsylvania . I’ve had the pleasure of visiting a number of amazing destinations including the steel city of Pittsburgh and even the mysterious Centralia.

The Sun Setting on Another Beautiful day in Providence Bay, Manitoulin Island

These Are Must Do Ontario Road Trips!

If you’re wondering what the best road trips from Toronto are, that really depends on what you’re looking for. Any of the aforementioned destinations will make for an awesome getaway. If you’re asking yourself “ where should I go on a road trip from Toronto? ” or wondering what epic summer road trips await you in Ontario…

• Niagara Falls
•  Stratford
• The Blue Mountains
• South Georgian Bay
• Peterborough
• The Kawarthas
• Essex County
• Sault Ste Marie
• Thunder Bay

…and who knows what you’ll find along the way! That’s one of the best parts about a road trip. It allows you the flexibility to stop and enjoy whatever gem you happen to come upon. Don’t forget to click the links throughout this article for more in-depth guides and tips for your Ontario road trips. If you’re a bit of an over-planner like me, don’t forget to leave some free time because you never know where you might want to stop along the way!

Well, all that’s left now is to take a look at the Ontario road trip map below and start planning your adventure! I mean, if you’re really looking for an epic trip, there’s plenty to see across the country! Check out these Canada road trip ideas for even more inspiration.

Disclaimer This post contains affiliate links where I may receive a kickback at no extra cost to you. It helps keep the site alive so thanks! Read more in IBB’s  disclaimer and privacy policy .

Ready to Road Trip Ontario? Pin these Ontario Road Trips for later!

14 Comments

Wowza what an epic post Lindz! This must have taken you aaaages! Ontario must be starting to look gorgeous at the moment if the cherry blossoms are just starting to flower.

I heard that your side of the country is considering starting to ease self isolation restrictions…so I guess you’ll be able to get out and enjoy it all soon! I hope you are holding up okay working from home.

Lindz author

Haha I’ve been picking away at this one for a while now whenever the inspiration to write would flow through my fingers. Ontario is seriously amazing and I know I’ll be updating this post as I’m able to explore more of it!

The re-opening is very slow with mainly just garden centres being open for curbside pick up as well as some construction projects but I know I’ll be waiting until it’s really all clear to travel. Gotta play it safe! And thank you, I’m doing alright! I was working from home already so other than missing the travel aspect of my life, my day to day hasn’t changed too much. I was unintentionally training for this apparently haha!

There is so much beauty in Canada! I’d love to take a road trip to some of these places one day!😍

I have passed by the thousand islands region multiple times, I really want to have a serious road trip down there soon!

We loved visiting Niagara Falls and want to go back and see the amazing places in Ontario! Winter looks incredible, so romantic and Christmassy! Grey County also looks beautiful! So many awesome places to visit and now I want to plan a trip to Canada!

Great Post! I love going on road trips and this post shows there is so much to see and do in Ontario.

madhu sharma

Wow Ontario has so much to offer, never knew about them.thanks for sharing ,saving it for future

What an outstanding post and photos for Ontario travel! We live in BC and always enjoy traveling and camping in this Province. We were recently in Niagara Falls & Niagara-On-The-Lake, while on our cross Canada train journey. Still as beautiful as ever! 🙂

This area looks absolutely amazing! The landscapes are so beautiful! I didn’t even know that there were 10 more waterfalls in the Niagara region! Thank you for sharing this very thorough article!

I’ve never been to Ontario but would love to do so one day. The waterfalls and the rainbow over Niagara are stunning!

Hello, last September myself and my husband rented an RV for the first time and set off from Toronto. We had never been to Canada before and our first stop was Bruce Peninsula , we stayed at a campground called Lands end which was gorgeous, lots of paddling around Lake Huron. Tobermory was next and the weather was beautiful, such a great place to visit, then the ferry to Manitoulin island and the cup and saucer trail. We ended up on the shores of Lake Superior at a campground called Wild rose which is just by Pancake bay, wonderful scenery and the best location of our trip!!! Great restaurant next door too called the voyageurs I think!

You are SO right about Sault Ste. Marie. Having been fortunate enough to grow up in the Sault and area I can attest to its incredible natural beauty. Lots to do if your into nature – and being some distance from hustle and bustle of big cities it affords you the solitude many people seek. Shhh – don’t tell too many people – keep it our little secret. LOL:-)

yes , great stuff , but i wish everybody who creates these kind of posts would include a actual place name with pictures ; lots of times the scenes are really great and would love to see the actual place ; but a great post

Hi Garry – that’s a really great point. Thank you for sharing! I’ll go in and update the locations for these images to the best of my ability. Some were taken on a whim on the road so an exact location might be hard to pinpoint but I can try!

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The World As I See It

One Ontario lady with a passion for travel and inspiring others to get outdoors and explore more

• Canada / Ontario / Travel

31 Ultimate Ontario Road Trips to Take in 2024

by Stephanie · Published January 1, 2024 · Updated January 11, 2024

One of my favourite things to do is road tripping in Ontario. Driving down winding roads, over green hills with sweeping views, and finding charming places to explore. And the back roads of Ontario lead to some of the best places to visit in Canada. So, if you’re looking for awesome places to visit here are some of the best Ontario road trips.

Along with sharing my top picks for road trip destinations, you’ll discover the best time to go. I’m sharing the best road trips to take in summer, winter and fall. Plus, my insider tips for a successful getaway!

One thing all of these road trips in Ontario have in common is a hint or a hefty dose of the great outdoors. Many others will have you learning about the province’s history, its people, and why these are some of the top Ontario destinations.

So, pack your bags, fill up your gas tank, and let’s start planning your next Ontario road rip.

15 Best Ontario Road Trips to Take this Summer

Depending on your interests, one of these unforgettable Ontario road trips will suite your style. There’s everything from epic outdoor adventures to charming small towns to explore.

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. By clicking through and purchasing through these links I may make a small commission to help run this blog, at no extra cost to you. Thx!

Bruce Peninsula

The Bruce Peninsula tops every list of Ontario road trips. The growth in visitors to Bruce Peninsula National Park and its world-famous Grotto has reached epic proportions over the past few years. It’s now one of the most popular road trips from Toronto.

Beyond the crowds in the summer, the Bruce Peninsula will wow you with its incredible natural beauty and wonders. It’s an ideal road trip destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Two of the top parks to visit are Bruce Peninsula National Park and Fathom Five National Marine Park.

Tobermory is the ending point to Ontario’s Bruce Trail as well as at the tip of the Bruce Peninsula. Along with the Bruce Trail hikes , there are a ton of great hiking trails along the Bruce Peninsula.

The region is also filled with cool geological formations and outstanding orchids. Plus, the Bruce is home to great small towns like Lions Head and Tobermory .

Both towns are both great places to use as your base to explore the Peninsula. You can also take your car, via ferry, over to Manitoulin Island if you want to extend your road trip.

Road Trip Tip : Because of its popularity, I recommend planning your Bruce Peninsula road trip for during the week. The best times are before the May long weekend or after Labour Day, to avoid the bulk of the traffic.

Driving time from Toronto – 3 hours Suggested days – 3 days

A great way to enjoy one of the best road trips in Ontario is to take one of the Guess Where Trips ! These themed surprise road trips take you to various areas of the province. You can choose from an array of trips that cover everything from waterfalls to markets and even spooky places. And if you use my special code, STEPHANIE10 , you’ll get 10% off your purchase.

Ontario’s Huron Coast

If you’re looking for Caribbean-like beaches then head to Ontario’s west coast. Otherwise known as Huron County , many vacationers flock to the Blue Flag beaches of Lake Huron in the summer.

There are over 80 km of shoreline and over a dozen incredible beaches. One of the most popular Ontario beach destinations is Grand Bend. But there’s so much more to discover along Ontario’s west coast.

Ontario’s Huron coast is home to a bunch of adorable small towns including Bayfield, Blyth, and Kincardine . Some towns have a European feel like Goderich . Goderich has a rich history that will have you stepping back in time – like at the Historic Gaol .

Another gem on the Huron Coast is Southampton! There are a variety of things to do in Southampton . You’ll find charming cafes and shops. Plus, there’s a fantastic beach and boat tour.

You’ll also find so many great areas for hiking and camping, like at Pinery Provincial Park. There’s also an array of great restaurants and cafes and even live theatre.

And the best way to end a day on Ontario’s Huron coast is with one of their infamous magical sunsets. There are plenty of awesome viewpoints along the coast.

Driving time from Toronto – 2.5 hours Suggested days – 3 days

Niagara Falls

One of the most popular Ontario road trips is Niagara Falls! That goes for both Ontarians and citizens from the United States.

Whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway or some solid fun, you’ll find it in Niagara Falls. Book a room with a view and wine tasting for a couple’s escape.

Enjoy high octane entertainment at Clifton Hill. There’s everything from a Ferris wheel with epic views to rides and fun houses.

But there’s more than wine and the Las Vegas-style strip to Niagara Falls. For nature lovers there are awesome hiking in the Niagara Gorge.

For families there’s Bird Kingdom and Butterfly Conservatory. And don’t forget about Journey Behind the Falls and the Hornblower Niagara Cruises.

In the Niagara area there’s also another charming road trip destination that has a lot to offer road trippers! Niagara-on-the-Lake! This charming small town is home to wineries, history, theatre and even a few ghosts !

Road Trip Tip : Book your accommodation in Niagara Falls within walking distance to the attractions you hope to visit. And make sure that your hotel offers free parking. This will ensure you can avoid paying for parking downtown and you can enjoy drinks after dinner and don’t have to worry about driving.

Driving time from Toronto – 1.5 hours Suggested days – 2 days

Lake Superior

This is not a weekend road trip by any imagination. But taking a road trip to Lake Superior is beyond unforgettable. I’d even say it deserves a spot on any top road trips in the world list.

Whether you’re adding a stop at Lake Superior on your epic Ontario road trip north or a camping getaway in the park, you’ll find a wealth of things to do along the coast of this mighty lake.

I think everyone should visit the Lake Superior area, it’s one of the most scenic places in Ontario. Lake Superior Provincial Park is one of Ontario’s most incredible parks. It’s home to a wealth of history – like the Agawa Rock pictographs, and nearly a dozen epic hiking trails.

Lake Superior is the world’s largest freshwater lake. With such a massive coastline, the Lake Superior Circle Tour is one of the best bucket list road trips. It covers over 2000 km in both Ontario and three different US states.

The Trans Canada Highway, that runs through the park, is one of the best scenic road trips in Ontario. You’ll find a bunch of great lookout stops along the way.

Road Trip Tips : If you are not planning on camping in Lake Superior Provincial Park consider starting your Lake Superior road trip in Sault Ste. Marie. At roughly 7 hours north of Toronto, it’s a good place to sleep before you begin exploring Lake Superior Provincial Park. The park is 2 hours north of Sault Ste. Marie.

Bonus tip: Also note that there are no gas stations in the park, so be sure to gas up beforehand.

Driving time from Toronto – 9 hours Suggested days – 4-7 days

For more information on a road trip to Northern Ontario, check out my Northern Ontario road trip itinerary . It includes all the must-stop locations, including provincial parks, scenic lookouts, and things to do along the way.

It’s well-known for its theatre, but there are so many more things to do in Stratford then taking in a show at the Stratford Festival.

Stratford has an incredible food scene that celebrates everything from Indian food to vegan. And one of my favourite parts is each restaurant’s commitment to farm to table fresh food.

Beyond theatre goers, Stratford is the perfect destination for foodies. Along with all the great restaurants, it’s home to some of the best chocolate in Ontario. There’s even a Chocolate Trail for visitors to indulge in!

Set along the Avon River in Southern Ontario, Stratford is a great place to explore the outdoors . Whether it’s hiking or renting a paddleboat, you’ll be swept away by its tranquil natural beauty.

Rounding out the wealth of things to do, Stratford has a museum, art galleries, ghost walks, street art, and fabulous local shops.

Road Trip Tip : If you’re staying outside of the main downtown core and driving into town you’ll find various free parking area. You can park for free along sections of the Avon River as well as in a downtown parking lot beside the University of Waterloo Campus on Downie Street (called Cooper Lot).

Driving time from Toronto – 2 hours Suggested days – 2-3 days

If you’re planning a few days in Stratford check out these amazing places to stay in Stratford .

Gananoque & the Thousands Islands

One of the best summer road trips in eastern Ontario is to the Thousand Islands area . The Thousand Islands area is home to adorable small towns , like Gananoque and Rockport.

Set on the shores of the St. Lawrence River, Gananoque is one of the most charming small towns in the area. It’s the perfect place to base yourself for exploring the area.

There is a wealth of things to do in Gananoque , that range from exploring downtown shops to dining. One of the top activities is taking a scenic cruise through the Thousands Islands and visiting Bolt Castle.

It’s a great area for nature lovers as there are a bunch of great places to hike, like right in Gananoque and nearby Marble Rock Conservation Area. You’ll also want to hike or bike the scenic Thousands Islands Parkway. Consider packing a picnic lunch and stopping at one of the many lookout spots along the way.

A big draw is the incredible Thousand Islands National Park . Eastern Ontario’s only national park, it’s an incredible stretch of islands that are great for boaters, campers or for road-trippers looking for a perfect place to kayak.

Another couple of must-stops in the area is the 1000 Islands Tower with its epic views of the Thousand Islands National Park and area.

Plan a road trip to the southern most town in Canada this summer! The town of Kingsville Ontario is full of fun things to do in the summer.

The charming downtown of Kingsville is packed full of fun shops selling everything from local makers’ goods to sweet treats. Two of the best are Dutch Boys Chocolate and Miller’s Bakery.

You’ll also find plenty of incredible restaurants to choose from. My favourite is El Diablo. But if you’re looking for a pint, you’ll find it and great food at the Kingsville Brewery.

History buffs will love the self-guided walking tour of the historic sights around town. And nature buffs will love nearby parks and cycling the Greenway trail.

Another popular activity in Kingsville is indulging in a wine tasting. You’ll find one of the best wineries in Ontario here, the tasting room for Pelee Island Winery .

Road Trip Tip: I suggest at least a two day road trip to Kingsville which pairs well with adding a few days on Pelee Island, since the ferry over is in town.

Driving time from Toronto – 3.5 hours Suggested days – 2-3 days

Brant County

Brant County is the wild card on this list of road trips in Ontario. But I promise you’ll be surprised. Located west of Hamilton, Brant County has something for everyone.

The area is rich in history, with sites like where the last battle of the War of 1812 took place on Canadian soil by Canadians and where the first long-distance phone call was received. You’ll find a bunch of great museums and self-guided walking tours too!

There are also some of the plenty of small towns to explore. One of which, Paris, is known as the prettiest small town in Canada .

Other cute small towns to visit include St. George and Mount Pleasant. The area has some incredible places to eat at, food tours, a charming tea shop, and one of the most unique places to stay in Ontario.

For nature lovers, there are lots of great hiking trails along the Grand River . In addition, one of the top activities in the summer is to paddling along the Grand River.

Manitoulin Island

For those looking for one of the best Ontario road trips that’s filled with outdoor adventures then head to Manitoulin Island. It’s the largest freshwater island in the world and home to hiking trails, small towns, and plenty of cultural experiences.

The Island is located in Lake Huron, above the Bruce Peninsula and west of Sudbury. You can access Manitoulin via ferry from Tobermory in the summer months, or via Highway 6 all year round.

Across the island you’ll find a handful of small towns like Little Current, Providence Bay, and Kagawong. All have something unique to offer, from museums to lighthouses, and even street art.

One of the most popular things to do on Manitoulin Island is hike the Cup and Saucer trail. This incredible trail has over 12 km of trails to explore. The main one, the Red Trail, is a 6-km loop. It takes you up the Niagara Escarpment and two a variety of epic viewpoints.

However, there are plenty of other hiking trails on Manitoulin. A few other trails to check out including Bebamikawe Memorial Trail and Billings Connection Trail. One large park not to miss is Misery Bay Provincial Park. Its home to a variety of trails and some of the most unique landscapes on the island.

Manitoulin is also home to 10 lighthouses, 2 amazing waterfalls, and over a dozen art galleries and trading posts. There’s something for everyone!

Road Trip Tip : As one of the top summer Ontario road trips, Manitoulin is large but many popular hotels book up fast, especially on weekends. I suggest planning your visit for during the week or just after Labour Day.

Driving time from Toronto – 6 hours Suggested days – 3 days

Pelee Island

If you’re looking for one of Canada’s best-kept secrets then head down to Pelee Island. Located in the middle of Lake Erie, it’s a short ferry ride from the shoreline of Southern Ontario. Its remote location helps keep it off the radar of many. But it’s worth the drive!

Pelee Island is ideal for those looking to relax on the beach, be inspired , or explore one of Canada’s top ecological gems. The island is home to a wealth of birds, wildlife, and unique plant life – many of which are endangered and not found anywhere else.

There’s also a vineyard with wine tasting. Pelee Island Winery is the largest private estate winery in Canada. Plus, you’ll find a museum, sweet café with the best butter tarts, and some of the best sunrises and sunsets in the province.

Road Trip Tip : When planning your road trip to Pelee Island make sure you check the schedule for ferries and know where exactly it’s leaving from. Being prepared by planning and booking ahead will make for a stress-free road trip. And a great stop on your road trip to Pelee Island is Point Pelee National Park .

Driving time from Toronto – 5 hours Suggested days – 2-3 days

Elora is known as the ‘most roadtrippable town in Canada.’ It even has a sign for it in Victoria Park!

This beautiful town along the Grand River is full of historic limestone buildings. It’s one of the best road trips from Toronto all year round.

Visitors will find plenty of charming cafes, shops and restaurants in town. It’s great for those looking for a girl’s getaway or romantic escape.

One of the top things to do in Elora is visit the Elora Gorge! Carved out by the Grand River, the gorge is set in a conservation area.

The Elora Gorge Conservation Area is home to hiking trails, river tubing, and stunning natural scenery. It also features camping in the summer months.

Another fun experience in Elora is afternoon tea at Wild Tart! This lovely tea room serves up three tiers of delightful treats. I love their desserts that almost look too pretty to eat.

Driving time from Toronto – 1.5 hours Suggested days – 2 days

Prince Edward County

If you’re looking for a great weekend getaway in Ontario for you and the girls or your significant other then head to Prince Edward County . This picturesque area of Ontario is home to some of the best wine in the province.

The County is best explored on a 3 day road trip. In the summer you’ll find bountiful things to do like enjoying the beaches and hiking trails. One of the best parks in Ontario, Sandbanks Provincial Park, is a must visit!

The most popular town in the County to explore is Picton! Home to unique shops and incredible restaurants, there’s plenty of things to do in Picton to keep you busy. In town there’s a museum, art galleries and more.

Prince Edward County is a perfect summer road trip! You’ll be able to enjoy lavender farms , patios with views, local ice cream shops, and sunflower fields .

driving time from Toronto 2.5 hours suggested days – 3 days

Perth County

One of the up and coming destinations for an unforgettable summer road trip in Ontario is Perth County! There are a wealth of things to do in Perth County for everyone from foodies to families. It’s also full of charming small towns to explore!

Perth County is Ontario’s farm country and so is full of incredible places to stop for great food. There are a wealth of farm gates where you can grab fresh local produce. Plus, at many you can meet the farm animals and some even have a bunch of family-friendly fun activities.

But there are also a ton of great restaurants and cafes in Perth County! You’ll find everything from fresh homemade treats to cozy meals. Plus, many are owned and operated by Mennonites.

If you love the outdoors then Perth County is the place you want to go. The county is full of parks and conservation areas to visit where you can hike, bike, or paddle.

Road Trip Tip : There are few tips to help you have a great Perth County road trip. Bring cash, especially for farm gates. Plus, check opening times for the small town businesses you hope to visit to avoid missing out. And don’t forget to pack a cooler for all the great food you’ll want to bring home!

Driving Time from Toronto – 2 hours Suggested days – 2 days

Thunder Bay

For those looking for one of the best outdoor road trips in Ontario, I highly recommend Thunder Bay. Set on the northern shore of Lake Superior, you’ll find a ton of things to do in Thunder Bay .

There’s something for everyone, from outdoor enthusiasts to history buffs. Plus, you’ll find plenty to entertain and inspire art lovers. This city has it all!

Thunder Bay is worth the drive! The city is full of rich history, like the Fort William Historical Park , the Terry Fox monument and historic walking tours.

Outdoor adventures are plentiful! You can hike to one of the best views in Ontario at Sleeping Giant Provincial Park. The Top of the Giant Trail is a bucket list worthy hike but there are a ton of great trails in the park.

Or if you’re looking to chase waterfalls then you’re in luck! There are a variety of them in and around the city. One of the most popular is Kakabeka Falls, which is known as Niagara of the North!

There’s a thriving art scene too! Check out the art installations along Prince Arthur’s Landing or all the street art you’ll find wandering the streets.

If you’re looking for something unique then head to the Amethyst Mine. At the Mine you can learn more about these jewels and even dig for them.

Road Trip Tip : Whether you’re driving from Toronto or elsewhere in Ontario, a road trip to Thunder Bay is a long haul. Be prepared! Make sure your gas tank is full and you have snacks to keep you fueled. I highly recommend stopping for all the fun roadside attractions and lookouts along the way.

Driving Time from Toronto – 15 hours Suggested days – 4-5 days

If you’re looking for destinations that make for the best Ontario road trips for families then I highly recommend Sudbury!

A few hours north of Toronto, there are a ton of fun things to do in Sudbury for families ! One of the top attractions is Science North. This multi-level science museum is full of interactive exhibits that kids and adults will love.

Be sure to head to Science North’s sister museum, Dynamic Earth! Here you can learn all about the city’s mining history in a fun and interactive way. Plus, you can find out what it feels like to go deep in a mine with an underground tour.

Sudbury is also a great road trip destination for outdoor adventurers! The city is home to over 300 lakes and dozens of parks.

Some of the best hiking trails in Sudbury are right in the city. There’s a scenic trail around Ramsey Lake and a boardwalk trail across the street.

Another fun spot to enjoy outdoor recreation for the whole family is Kivi Park. It’s home to hiking trails, an epic playground, and a disc golf course.

Driving time from Toronto – 4 hours Suggested days – 3 days

5 Unforgettable Winter Ontario Road Trips

If you’re looking for epic road trips in Ontario this winter then I have 5 unforgettable ones! These Ontario winter getaways are perfect for those looking for adventurous outdoor fun or cozy trips. Don’t shy away from a winter road trip in Ontario!

One of the best Ontario road trips in winter is to Canada’s capital city, Ottawa. There are so many amazing things to do in Ottawa, from fun festivals to outdoor activities.

One of Canada’s best festivals, Winterlude , takes place every February in Ottawa. Winterlude hosts a ton of fun and family-friendly attractions and activities.

The city is also home to many museums to check out if you’re looking to escape the cold and snow for a day. Two of my favourite are the Canadian Museum of Nature and National Gallery of Canada.

A must winter attraction in Ottawa is skating the Rideau Canal. But don’t forget to end your trip with a tasty BeaverTail.

Plus, if you’re coming from Toronto, a road trip to Ottawa is made better with all of the incredible stops along the way. With three different routes to choose from, there’s everything from small towns to parks along the way.

Road Trip Tip: If you’re looking to explore further and have more time consider visiting a few places in Quebec. Set on the border of Quebec, there are a bunch of great things to do in the winter that is close to Ottawa like, North America’s largest spa – the Nordic Spa, snowshoeing in Gatineau Park, and the Quebec City Winter Carnival.

Driving Time from Toronto – 4 hours Suggested days – 3 days

One of the best Ontario road trips to take in the winter is to Barrie! Located an hour north of Toronto, Barrie is set along the picturesque shores of Lake Simcoe.

While it’s a popular summer destination, many of the top things to do in Barrie happen during the winter season. The city is surrounded by ski hills, making it an ideal spot for affordable winter getaways .

Within a 20-minute drive from downtown Barrie there are over 3 different places to ski. Horseshow Resort is a great option for outdoor adventurers. It’s home to downhill skiing, tubing and a resort to stay at.

For those looking for road trip destinations in February, Barrie is perfect! Along with the skiing, February boasts one of the best Barrie festivals , Winterfest.

Taking over downtown Barrie, Winterfest is full of fun sights like ice sculptures and family-friendly activities. Or you can pop into one of the many cute downtown Barrie coffee shops .

Driving time from Toronto – 1 hour Suggested days – 2 days

Blue Mountain Village

One of the top places to go on a winter road trip in Ontario is Blue Mountain Village . Only a 2 hour drive north of Toronto, Blue Mountain is the perfect winter destination.

If you’re looking for small town charm and a bunch of winter activities all in one spot then Blue Mountain is where you want to go. For those visiting during December, you’ll find one of the best free light displays in Ontario . Plus, the village hosts an annual Christmas market that’s full of great local gift ideas.

What can you do on a winter road trip to Blue Mountain? Book your stay in one of their beautiful apartments where everything you need is right at your doorstep.

Blue Mountain offers a range of fun winter activities like skiing and snowshoeing. There are also a ton of great restaurants and shops to check out.

Road Trip Tips : Blue Mountain is a popular destination in the winter. I suggest booking well ahead if you plan to visit on a weekend or opt for a less busy time during the week. And if you plan on staying and skiing be sure to check out package deals to save some money.

Driving Time from Toronto – 2 hours Suggested days – 2 days

Sault Ste. Marie

Another great winter destination for an epic Ontario road trip is Sault Ste. Marie. It’s worth the drive! Marie.

It’s a solid 7 hour drive from Toronto, but there are a ton of things to do in Sault Ste. Marie in the winter. And since it’s located right across the US border there are a host of day trip options too, like popping over to Michigan.

What can you do on a road trip in the winter to Sault Ste Marie? Once you’re in the Soo, as it’s affectionately called, try out the Clergue Park skate trail, go ice fishing, and cross-country skiing in Hiawatha Highlands Conservation Area!

Road Trip Tip: It’s a long drive up to Sault Ste. Marie and driving in Northern Ontario is different than Southern Ontario. More snow, more wind, and colder temperatures, blend for dangerous driving conditions. Plan ahead. Always make sure you have plenty of gas, windshield fluid, and other necessary winter road trip essentials .

Driving Time from Toronto – 7 hours Suggested days – 3 days

Looking for history, festivals, and fun? Then plan a road trip to Kingston this winter. Known as the Limestone City, Kingston has so much to offer to those looking for things to do in Ontario in the winter.

There’s something for everyone’s interests, whether you’re looking for outdoor adventures or fun family-friendly activities.

What should you do in Kingston during your winter road trip? There is a range of events and fairs throughout winter in Kingston, from holiday markets to FebFest.

You can also grab a pair of skates and head to Market Square for a skate. Or, if you’re looking for fun indoor winter things to do there’s are a couple awesome escape rooms and the theatre. In addition, the city is full of cozy cafes.

Driving Time from Toronto – 2.5 hours Suggested days – 3 days

Best Road Trips in Ontario in the Fall

The region of Muskoka is one of the best Ontario road trip destinations in the fall. Full of tree lined winding back roads, there are countless ways to enjoy fall in Muskoka .

Along with scenic drives, some of the best fall activities include hitting the trails. Some of the best fall hikes in Muskoka include Arrowhead Provincial Park and Hardy Lake Provincial Park .

Another top thing to do is enjoy one of the fall colour boat tours in Muskoka. Taking you out on one of the beautiful lakes, each offers unique views and interesting history.

Muskoka boast a wealth of stunning scenery! One fantastic way to experience the fall colours is to add one of the many Muskoka lookouts to your road trip itinerary.

You can choose to base yourself in one of the many small towns in Muskoka or stay a night or two in each. If you’re planning to visit more of central Muskoka, I recommend staying in Bracebridge. There is a ton of things to do in Bracebridge . Plus, it’s close to many of the other attractions in the area.

If you plan to visit more of northern Muskoka and Algonquin, I suggest basing yourself in Huntsville.

Road Trip Tip : If you’re planning to rent a cottage consider buying your food from local farmers’ markets and shops instead of bringing it from the city. Not only will you help support the businesses and local farmers that rely on the short summer season but the food will be fresher and tastier! And here’s an epic itinerary for a great Toronto to Muskoka road trip .

Driving time from Toronto – 2 hours Suggested days – 2-3 days

I’ve been travelling to the Haliburton Highlands for my entire life. And even after over 40 years, I think the Haliburton area makes for one of the best road trips in Ontario!

The area is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. Some of the top things to do in the Haliburton Highlands include hiking, boating and skiing.

Haliburton is a dreamy destination in the fall.  One of the best places to soak in the fall colours is Sculpture Forest. The park is home to interesting sculptures and pieces of art that line its winding trails.

Another fun place to visit is Haliburton Forest. This massive recreation site is home to a wealth of attractions. There are hiking trails, Treetop Trekking, and more.

It’s also home to the Wolf Centre where you can learn all about wildlife in the area. Plus, the museum houses a pack of wolves that you can watch through one way glass.

The village of Haliburton is a great place to explore too. There are a number of art galleries, shops, and plenty of great restaurants.

Road Trip Tip: Head to Skyline Park for sweeping views of downtown Haliburton. It’s an especially special view in the fall.

Driving time from Toronto – 2.5 hours Suggested days – 2-3 days

One of the best Ontario road trips to take in the fall is around Caledon! The region is home to some of the top scenic drives from Toronto. They feature tree lined twisting roads full of brilliant fall foliage.

Filled with incredible parks, hiking is one of the top things to do in Caledon . The most popular park in the area is Forks of the Credit Provincial Park. Along with trails, the park features a waterfall.

The Caledon Trailway stretches through the region too. This stretch of old railway turned trail is perfect for a fall cycle or hike.

In the fall, it’s all about the bounty of the harvest season. There are a number of amazing farms in Caledon that are a must-visit. Visiting these farms are one of the top things to do in the fall !

Places like Downey’s Farm and Davis Family Farm are great for families. Activities on the farm include pick your own pumpkin, corn mazes, and more.

Caledon is also home to one of the best scenic drives in Ontario. Forks of the Credit Scenic Road offers an amazing fall drive. The road is lined with trees and full of twists.

Kawartha Lakes

Another great destination for an awesome fall road trip in Ontario is Kawartha Lakes. Much like Muskoka, this cottage country region is full of small towns and stunning scenery.

Two lovely towns to explore are Bobcagon and Lindsay. Bobcagon has an adorable downtown with shops to browse and restaurants to dine at. You’ll find the same in Lindsay and more.

The Kawartha Lakes is one of the best places to see fall colours in Ontario ! Along with scenic drives, the area is full of fantastic parks.

Balsam Lake Provincial Park and Ken Reid Conservation Area are both must-visit parks in the fall! Another hidden gem is Queen Elizabeth II Wildlands Park. This park is one of the least disturbed in central Ontario.

My favourite spot to go in the fall in Kawartha is Doube’s Trestle Bridge! Spanning over 650 feet long and standing nearly 100 feet above the valley, it offers epic fall views.

Lanark County

One of the best road trips in Ontario is to Lanark County. This area, west of Ottawa, is full of small towns and parks to explore.

The town of Almonte is one of the most popular towns in the area. You’ll find a waterfall right downtown as well as plenty of unique and vintage shops to browse. Almonte is full of great places to eat, like Sterling and North Market.

I recommend planning a weekend road trip in the fall to Lanark County! Along with scenic drives, the parks are home to some brilliant fall colours.

Two great parks in the county to add to your road trip itinerary are Silver Lake and Murphy’s Point Provincial Parks. Another gem is Mill of Kintail Conservation Area.

Perth is another top destination in the area. Full of historic stone buildings and a river running through it, it gives dreamy European vibes.

Some of my favourite things to do in Perth are centered around its downtown. It’s full of interesting shops, including plenty of antique stores, as well as cute cafes.

Be sure to pop into Code’s Mill for one of the best chocolate shops in Ontario. Plus, this historic mill is home to a restaurant, boutique, and donut shop.

One of the hidden gems of the area is Carleton Place. You’ll find a surprising number of things to do in Carleton Place .

Downtown is lined with unique boutiques, coffee shops, and fabulous food stops. There’s something for everyone in Carleton Place. You’ll find a museum, art gallery, and street art.

Road Trip Tip: I recommend basing yourself in Carleton Place for a Lanark County road trip. It has budget-friendly accommodations. Plus, many of the towns and areas of interest in the county are within 30 minutes.

Driving time from Toronto – 3.5 hours Suggested days – 3 days

More Ideas for Amazing Ontario Road Trips

Another one of the best cities in Ontario to road trip to is North Bay. This may surprise you if you haven’t explored the city, but it’s such a gem!

The city’s downtown is home to a long list of historic buildings, fun shops and great restaurants. You’ll also find an array of street art and a museum.

If you’re visiting in the summer, one of the best things to do in North Bay is to take a Lake Nipissing cruise. Learn about the history of the area and see the stunning islands on this massive lake.

I also recommend strolling the waterfront. It features a scenic trail along the water, gardens, and sweet views.

North Bay is an ideal location for outdoor enthusiasts. There’s a massive waterfall just west of downtown, Duchesnay Falls. Plus, there are a bunch of fantastic parks to hike.

My favourite park in the city is Laurier Woods Conservation Area. With boardwalk trails and scenic views, you’ll feel a world away. Plus, in the summer it’s full of lady slipper orchids!

Road Trip Tip: On your way to North Bay, add a stop at Crystal Caves. This incredible shop is one of the many Ontario hidden gems that’s a must-see!

Driving time from Toronto – Suggested days – 3 days

Country Path

For those looking for fun Ontario staycation ideas I recommend taking a Country Path road trip. This charming road trip takes you to some of the best places to visit in Clarington .

A Country Path is perfect for a mini staycation. This planned route includes a variety of local businesses. Plus, there’s a warm and inviting Inn to stay at that’s close to all the stops.

This road trip is great to take throughout the year. During the holiday season, you’ll find plenty of festive places to do some shopping for gifts. In the summer, you’ll find farm fresh produce and long days for exploring.

My favourite time to do it is in the fall. In the fall, you’ll get to experience the harvest season and scenic country roads. A top stop in the fall is Knox’s Pumpkin Farm. Explore the grounds, feed the animals, and pick a pumpkin.

South Georgian Bay

Another awesome Ontario road trip destination is Southern Georgian Bay. A great place to base yourself in is Collingwood. From here you can explore all of the adorable small towns that dot the bay.

For outdoor buffs, you can also dive for shipwrecks, take on one of the many hiking trails in the area, or enjoy a paddle down the Nottawasaga River. In the winter, the area is popular for skiing, snowboarding and tubbing.

There are plenty of things to do in Collingwood that range from shopping to cycling. There are also a bunch of incredible restaurants too.

For foodies, I highly recommend enjoying the Apple Pie Trail or go strawberry picking. Plus, don’t forget to check out all the farm markets.

driving time from Toronto – 2 hours Suggested days – 2 days

A surprising road trip destination is Pickering. Beyond being a commuter town, there’s so much more to this Durham Region gem!

Whether you’re into exploring the great outdoors or local history, you’ll find a wealth of things to do in Pickering.

One of the top attractions is the Pickering Museum Village. The museum is home to a living history village. It’s a great place for families or history buffs. They offer a range of tours and fun events throughout the year, from ghost walks to escape rooms.

Where Pickering meets Lake Ontario you’ll find a neighbourhood reminiscent of beach towns, Nautical Village. This adorable area is home to a marina and a beach.

Nautical Village lakefront is perfect for summer sun or a stroll on part of the Waterfront Trail. It’s also where you’ll find a bunch of great shops, cafes and restaurants to either grab takeaway for a picnic or to eat on one of the amazing patios.

Pickering is home to a wealth of great places to hike. There’s a range of parks to choose from. On the western border of Pickering you’ll also find, Rouge National Urban Park .

As one of North America’s largest parks, the Rouge is home to a variety of habitats, from forest to wetlands as well as farmers’ fields. And you’ll find one of the best boardwalks in Ontario here!

Driving Time from Toronto – 1 hour Suggested days – 2 days

Ontario is home to some incredible places to camp and many of these parks make for the perfect road trip!

If you’re looking for a few great parks that are ideal for camping and home to beautiful lakes then I have you covered! My favourite place to camp is Awenda Provincial Park . The campsites offer shade and privacy. Plus, there’s plenty of things to do in the park and area.

Grundy Lake Provincial Park is a popular camping destination thanks to its lovely lakes and scenic trails. In addition, the park is easy to access as it’s right off the Trans Canada Highway, just north of Parry Sound.

Another is Silent Lake Provincial Park. It’s home to over 19 km of trails, camping and in one of the most beautiful areas of the Kawartha’s.

driving times vary

Group of Seven

If you’re an art lover or nature addict you’ll love a road trip across Ontario to all of the Group of Seven locations . You can road trip from Toronto to Algoma Country and find scenic places that inspired their art work.

Group of Seven chose some of the most beautiful natural scenery in Ontario paint, like Killarney Provincial Park and Algonquin Park .

Some top Group of Seven destinations worth road tripping to include; Huntsville , Lake Superior, Sudbury, and Kleinberg.

Note : Drive times are noted from Toronto by highways for all road trips. But I highly recommend that all great road trips are made infinitely better when you opt for the back roads. It may take a bit longer to get to your final destination but imagine the hidden gems you’ll find!

Looking for fun and quirky places to stay along your road trip? Try one of these dreamy Airbnbs in Ontario that is worth road-tripping for!

Are you looking for more of the best road trips in Canada?

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British Columbia Road Trip Guide: 4 BC Road Trip Itineraries

Books to Help You Plan Your Next Road Trip in Ontario

Are you looking for more information to help plan your next Ontario road trip? There are a host of great books that will inspire you to dig deeper into Ontario. But I’ve done the work for you! Here are a few books to check out.

Backroads of Ontario  – where you’ll discover incredible places and hidden gems that you’ll find on the backroads of Ontario. Including a few of these small towns as well as the scenic drives to take to get you there.

Top 160 Unusual Things to See in Ontario  – if you’re on the hunt for more interesting places to visit and things to see during your Ontario travels then this is a fun book to pick up.

Discover Ontario  – in this book you’ll read about stories from the people and places that make up Ontario. There’s everything from unusual places to interesting people and the book shares their history and more.

Ultimate Bucket List of Ontario Road Trips

Niagara Falls Muskoka Stratford Thunder Bay Manitoulin Island Lake Superior Thousand Islands National Park Pelee Island Ottawa Ontario’s West Coast Kingston Prince Edward County

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Tags: Canada Ontario

I'm a Canadian gal with a passion for travel, the great outdoors as well as coffee and books. I hope to inspire others to feel the same way! Traveling mostly solo, I love to explore my own backyard of Ontario as well as exotic cities around the world.

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Lovely ideas! Thank you for sharing.

This makes me so sad that I have never road tripped in Ontario even though I have visited Toronto numerous times. This must be remedied. Great post.

You’ll definitely have to make sure to change that when you return to Toronto! Most of these Ontario road trips are perfect if you’re leaving from Toronto!

I was only in Ontario briefly as a kid for Niagra Falls, so I had no idea how many great things there are to do in this part of Canada. I look forward to visiting one day and trying one of these road trips.

I hope you get a chance to return! You’re right, there is so much more to Ontario than Niagara Falls!

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Hey there, I'm Stephanie and am the gal behind The World As I See It. I have a passion for travel, hiking, and local travel in Ontario! Let me take you along on my journey exploring my own backyard - including Ontario small towns, cafes, and trails to cities around the globe. I hope you will be inspired to get out and explore your backyard and beyond!

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Going Awesome Places

Detailed itineraries + travel guides

Weekend Ontario Road Trips You Can’t Miss

Last Updated January 10, 2024 William Tang

You are here: Home » Attractions & Experiences » Weekend Ontario Road Trips You Can’t Miss

Blessed with beautiful waterfalls, incredible parks, local surprises, culinary gems, crystal waters, and more, Ontario is one of the most road trip friendly provinces in Canada. If you only have 2 days to work with, what are the must-do weekend Ontario road trips?

Let’s jump right into the best places to road trip in Ontario!

Read more about Ontario

• One day road trip itinerary around Toronto
• Provincial Parks to see Ontario Fall colours
• Best easy hike trails around the GTA
• Best parks in Scarborough
• Toronto parks you can BBQ in
• Yurts in Ontario you can book

Need to rent a car?

• If you need a car for your weekend Ontario road trip, make sure you know about ways to save money with car rental coupon codes .

In This Article

1- Oxford County

2- niagara region, 3- algonquin, 4- hamilton, 5- thousand islands, 6- bruce peninsula, 7- kawarthas, 8- prince edward county, frequently asked questions, 8 best weekend ontario road trips.

Ontario is a large province and there are so many incredible routes you can take when building your own road trip. That said, we often don’t have the time for a big week-long vacation and so it made sense to focus in on the type of Ontario road trips where you can pull it off in a weekend or maybe even a long weekend.

For the purposes of this guide, we’re going to focus on road trips from Toronto, Ottawa, and London.

The name might sound familiar but you might’ve heard of Woodstock, Ontario. Oxford County is where Highway 401 and 403 converge and where you’ll find other towns such as Tillsonburg , Ingersol , Otterville , and more.

What makes this region special is that it is in fact the dairy capital of Canada. While that means that there are many farms and grazing lands, they’ve rapidly become a culinary destination that’s perfect for road trippers.

The star attraction has to be the Oxford County Cheese Trail , a collection of over 20 businesses that have cheese-related offerings and experiences. If you’ve taken a look at how we did our 2 day Oxford County Cheese Trail itinerary , you’ll see that this is an awesome choose-your-own adventure that spans the best cheesemakers in Canada and also many other local businesses that will blow you away.

As far as road trips in Ontario go, Oxford County is truly a hidden gem.

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW

Time to drive:

• 1 hour 45 minutes from Toronto
• 5.5 hours from Ottawa
• 40 minutes from London

Website: Tourism Oxford

Highlights:  

• Oxford County Cheese Trail
• Cheese Makers
• Farm Experiences
• Culinary Experiences
• Local Markets
• Pick-Your-Own Farms

Nearby attractions:

• Habitual Chocolate
• Early Bird Coffee Roasting Lab
• Gunn’s Hill Artisan Cheese
• Udderly Ridiculous Farm Experiences
• Ingersoll Cheese and Agricultural Museum
• Upper Thames Brewing Company

Good restaurants nearby:  

• SixThirtyNine
• Brickhouse Brewpub
• Charles Dickens Pub
• Finkle Street Tap & Grill

Where to stay overnight:  

• Elm Hurst Inn & Spa
• Chateau la Motte Guest House
• Days Inn Wyndham Woodstock
• Comfort Inn & Suites Ingersoll

MORE ABOUT OXFORD COUNTY

It goes without saying that Niagara is the most well-known part of Ontario with not only the natural wonder of Niagara Falls but also the global acclaim of its wineries.

While vacations to see the waterfall are an easy default, an even better weekend Ontario road trip is to complement the falls with truly spectacular parts of the region that show you the authentic Niagara.

The Niagara Region is made up of 13 municipalities where Niagara Falls is just one small part of it. The best part of any drive through here is that you’ll be continuously surprised by how bountiful the Niagara Escarpment is in its natural landscapes and fertile lands to produce Ontario’s best fruits and vegetables.

With this being a large region, it’s undoubtedly challenging to plan a trip which is why we’ve put together a 3 day adventure itinerary of Niagara Falls , filtered down the best Niagara Falls wine tours , selected the top restaurants in Niagara-on-the-Lake , and also written an extensive Niagara Parks Power Station review .

For the visual planners, we’ve also produced a number of videos with Visit Niagara that covers the fall colours , unexpected culinary experiences , drinks in Lincoln , the Lakeshore Route , and fall harvest .

If you’re looking to put together one of the best scenic road trips in Ontario, you have to include Niagara Falls of course, a drive down The Niagara Parkway , stay a night in Niagara-on-the-Lake, see the Toronto skyline on a clear day from Port Dalhousie , be in awe of the giant ships that pass through the Welland Canal at Port Colborne , and drive through the charming town of Jordan Station .

If you know where to go, you can really dine like kings and queens on your road trip to Niagara.

• 2 hours from London

Website: Visit Niagara

• Natural Wonders
• Outdoor Experiences
• Family-Friendly Activities
• Outlet Shopping
• Inniskillin
• Peller Estates
• Wayne Gretzky Estates
• Reif Estate Winery
• Konzelmann Estate Winery
• Jackson-Triggs Winery
• Tawse Winery
• Henry of Pelham
• Cave Spring Vineyard
• Bench Brewing Company
• Breakwall Brewing Company
• Br i mstone Brewing Company
• Kame & Kettle Beer Works
• Ironwood Cider House
• Lincoln County Cider
• Spirit In Niagara
• Dillon’s Small Batch Distillers
• Ball’s Falls Conservation Area
• Decew Falls
• Short Hills Provincial Park
• White Water Walk
• Niagara Glen Nature Centre
• Niagara Falls Helicopter Adventure
• Half Day Wine & Cheese Tour with Lunch
• Zipline To The Falls
• Niagara-on-the-Lake Wine Country Tasting Tour
• Fall for Niagara Tour
• Whirlpool Jet Boat Tours
• Taris on the Water
• Root & Bone
• Patio Andaluz
• Prince of Wales Niagara on the Lake
• Queens Landing

MORE ABOUT NIAGARA REGION

Algonquin Provincial Park is one of the best Ontario Parks there is. Home to a vast wilderness of forests, rivers, lakes, moose, bears, logging history, campsites, and trails, this is an outdoor enthusiast’s dream.

Certainly, a weekend doesn’t do Algonquin justice but you can make the most out of a weekend or long weekend here depending on the type of trip you want to plan.

If you want to forgo car camping, backcountry camping, and/or portaging, using Huntsville as a hub is a great option because not only do you have access to Algonquin Provincial Park from the West Gate but you also have Arrowhead Provincial Park which should not be overlooked.

Another thing to consider is that Algonquin neighbours on Ontario’s Muskoka so this is also a perfect pairing between an Ontario road trip and cottage life.

No matter what season you go, you’ll be able to find beauty in Algonquin which you’ll see in our winter adventures in Muskoka and a 4 day Algonquin portage .

• 3 hours from Toronto
• 3 hours from Ottawa
• 4 hours and 16 minutes from London

Website: Algonquin Provincial Park

• Car camping
• Backcountry camping
• Winter activities
• Fall colours
• Oxtongue River-Ragged Falls
• Algonquin Logging Museum
• Lookout Trail
• Beaver Pond Trail
• Arrowhead Provincial Park
• Audio driving tour from Toronto to Huntsville
• Algonquin group camping adventure
• 3 day Algonquin Park canoe trip
• The Artisan House
• That Little Place by the Lights
• Family Restaurant & Pizza
• Henrietta’s Pine Bakery
• Holiday Inn Express & Suites Huntsville
• Comfort Inn Huntsville
• Best Western Plus Muskoka Inn

MORE ABOUT ALGONQUIN

You never would’ve guessed it if you’ve never been but Hamilton has a high concentration of the most photogenic waterfalls in Ontario. This is thanks to the geology of the Niagara Escarpment that cuts through the city resulting in steep drops in the rock where various waterways flow through.

If you’ve read the guide to the best waterfalls of Hamilton , you’ll know that there are 11 incredible cascades that you can easily explore across a weekend road trip in Ontario or if you’re in a rush, you can also do a few of them on a day trip.

What you’ll love about Hamilton’s waterfalls is that they’re all easily accessible and most don’t require too much hiking to get to. The only thing to be aware of i that parking may be limited in some spots especially during the summer and a few of the more popular waterfalls have entry fees.

The best time to come is in the spring when the snow melts and the water rages downwards or in the fall when you have the cascades nestled in the backdrop of the changing leaves.

While you’re in Hamilton, you’ll get an appreciation for how the city is much more than its moniker of being a Steel Town. There are a surprisingly wealth of culinary, art, history, and outdoor experiences here.

• 1 hour from Toronto
• 5 hours from Ottawa
• 1 hours and 17 minutes from London

Website: Tourism Hamilton

Highlights:

• Hiking trails
• Historic buildings
• Farmers’ Market
• 11 of the best waterfalls of Hamilton
• Dundurn Castle
• HMCS Haida Tribal-class Destroyer
• Dundas Valley Conservation Area
• Hamilton’s Farmer’s Market
• Collective Arts Brewing
• Canadian Warplane Heritage Museum
• Carnegie Gallery
• Exotic Car Drive in Hamilton
• Hamilton Ghost Walk
• Hamilton Scavenger Hunt
• Chicago Style Pizza Shack
• The Ancaster Mill
• Memphis Fire Barbeque Company
• Sandman Hotel Hamilton
• Homewood Suites by Hilton Hamilton
• The Barracks Inn

MORE ABOUT HAMILTON’S WATERFALLS

Along the St. Lawrence River there are literally more than 1,800 islands that straddle the border of Canada and the U.S. This is a hub of outdoor experiences both on land and water that makes for a great road trip destination in Ontario.

The 1000 Islands offers plenty for visitors to do. With your car, you’ll be able to explore the small town charm of Gananoque which is considered to be the “gateway to the Thousand Islands”. There are plenty of shops, restaurants, and hotels.

With Gananaoque as your base, you’ll be able to enter Thousand Islands National Park, take a Thousand Islands cruise to see the famous archipelago. Along the way you’ll see the smallest international bridge and also Boldt Castle on Heart Island.

A weekend here will also allow you to experience the Thousand Islands in a number of different ways including getting on a paddle board, kayak, or canoe to get up close to all of the natural beauty here.

In the evening, grab a pint at the Gan Brewing Company , watch a show at the Thousand Islands Playhouse , and watch a sunset from Sculpture Park .

• 1.5 hours from Ottawa
• 4 hours 37 minutes from London

Website: 1000 Islands Tourism

• Small town charm
• National Park
• Water sports
• Thousand Islands National Park
• 1000 Islands Tower
• Thousand Islands Playhouse
• 1000 Islands Drive-In
• Shorelines Casino Thousand Islands
• Helicopter Tour with Cider Mill and Lunch
• 10, 20, or 30-Minute Scenic Helicopter Tour
• 1000 Islands Kayaking Day Trips
• City Cruises Gananoque
• Rockport Cruises
• Gan Brewing Company
• Purple House
• Maple Leaf Restaurant
• Riva Italian Restaurant
• Howard Johnson by Wyndham Gananoque
• Seaway Manor B&B
• The Bulloch House

MORE ABOUT 1000 ISLANDS

If you’re seeking pristine waters, epic hike trails, scuba diving, island exploring, cruising, and the best of Ontario camping, a drive to Tobermory is one of the best road trips in Ontario.

The experience starts as you take Highway 6 and has you passing through towns such as Fergus, Chatsworth, Owen Sound, and Wiarton , before you make your way up the Bruce Peninsula . Make sure to read our article on hidden waterfalls near Toronto that is can be incorporated into a weekend road trip or as a day trip on its own.

At the end of the road is the harbour village of Tobermory. This is where your adventure begins and you get to have some of the best fish & chips in the province.

From Tobermory, take a cruise to Flowerpot Island, a part of the Fathom Five National Marine Park which is home to a number of shipwreck dive sites and historic 19th-century lighthouses.

Southeast of the town is Bruce Peninsula National Par k where you’ll find the famed Grotto and the winding paths of the most scenic part of the Bruce Trail where you’ll still see the dominating rocky features of the Niagara Escarpment . This is also a great park to for camping. They are also one of the few parks with their own yurts in Ontario as well.

Other spots not to miss are Lion’s Head Provincial Nature Reserve , Black Creek Provincial Park , and Greig’s Caves that showcase the incredible landscape of the region.

READ MORE: A perfect weekend in Tobermory

If you have more than a weekend, a car ferry over to Manitoulin Island is something you should definitely look into!

• 3.5 hours from Toronto
• 7.5 hours from Ottawa
• 3.5 hours from London

Website: Visit Bruce Peninsula

• Bruce Peninsula National Park
• Flower Pot Island
• Fathom Five National Marine Park
• Lion’s Head Provincial Nature Reserve
• Black Creek Provincial Park
• Greig’s Caves
• Bruce Peninsula Day Trip from Toronto
• Tobermory Wave Adventures
• Eco Adventures Bruce Peninsula
• Blue Heron Cruises
• Bruce Anchor Cruises
• Shipwreck Lee’s of Tobermory
• Tobermory Brewing Company and Grill
• Crowsnest Pub
• MellowOut B&B
• Jacob’s Stone
• The Whippoorwill Cottage
• The Inn at Cobble Beach

MORE ABOUT TOBERMORY

While most of us think of Muskoka as idyllic cottage country but I’d argue that the region of the Kawartha Lakes and Peterborough & The Kawathas (two separate tourism regions but are combined as part of Kawarthas Northumberland ) holds its own especially when you consider that it is easier to get to, is dotted with numerous lakes and waterways, and has awesome lakefront home rentals.

What makes the entire Kawarthas unique is the Trent-Severn Waterway , a scenic 386 km route of lakes, rivers, locks and canals managed by Parks Canada . There are a total of 45 locks and with 18 of them in the Kawartha Region between Kirkfield and Peterborough.

During your road trip through here, you’ll want to plan several stops at locks along the way. You’ll be mesmerized by the ingenuity of how boats of all shapes and sizes can move from one lake to another which are at different levels.

Towns are centralized around many of the locks so after you’re done watching boats pass through, you’ll be able to spend time exploring the communities of the Kawarthas. A weekend through here will allow you to explore Bobcaygeon, Lindsay, Fenelon Falls, Buckhorn, Kirkfield, and Peterborough .

What makes this Ontario road trip a little different from others is that you’ll be able to decide how much exploring of the region you want to do versus relaxing and enjoying any one of the cottage properties here. There’s no wrong way to plan a trip here.

Make sure to bring a cooler so you can pack one (or many) tubs of Kawartha Dairy Ice Cream .

• 1.5 hours from Toronto
• 3 hours 40 minutes from Ottawa
• 3 hours from London

Website: Peterborough & The Kawarthas / Kawartha Lakes

• Trent-Severn Waterway locks
• Lake activities
• Kawartha Settlers’ Village
• Lock 32 (Bobcaygeon)
• Lock 34 (Fenelon Falls)
• Peterborough Lift Lock
• The Canadian Canoe Museum
• Ken Reid Conservation Area
• Balsam Lake Provincial Park
• Murphy’s Lockside Pub & Patio
• Just For The Halibut
• Ashburnham Ale House
• St. Veronus Cafe and Tap Room
• Days Inn & Suites by Wyndham Lindsay
• Luxury Cottage Kawartha Lakes
• Sundown Cottage
• Kawartha Luxury Waterfront Boathouse

MORE ABOUT KAWARTHAS

Last but not least is Prince Edward County (PEC for short), located between Toronto and Kingston on the northeastern shore of Lake Ontario. If you take a look at the map, PEC is actually an island as well.

Over the years, this destination has really grown to become a weekend tripper’s dream with its idyllic combination of Sandbanks Provincial Park , wineries, lavender fields, micro-breweries, cute B&Bs, galleries, and historic towns.

What’s drastically changed in the region is that no longer do people only come for PEC’s beaches and sand dunes but now they’ve become a ‘ Gastronomic Capital of Ontario ‘ thanks to its fertile land filled with organic farms, vineyards, fine-dining restaurants, and gourmet food trucks.

As far as Ontario road trips that you can’t miss, Prince Edward County does not disappoint. You can easily spend a night at a boutique hotel such as Drake Devonshire , and have a nice weekend hopping around the island, you can book a campsite and take in the stunning landscapes.

If you’re coming from Ottawa, consider taking the Glenora Ferry which can take cars and people from Kingston to Prince Edward County.

READ NEXT: 16 Popular and Secret Weekend Trips from Toronto

• 2 hours 19 minutes from Toronto
• 2 hours 50 minutes from Ottawa
• 4 hours 11 minutes from London

Website: Visit PEC

• B&B getaways
• Sandbanks Provincial Park
• Lake on the Mountain
• Millefleurs Lavender Field
• Armstrong Glassworks
• Sandbanks Estate Winery
• Karlo Estates Winery
• Rosehall Run Vineyards
• TerraCello Winery
• Three Dog Winery
• Lighthall Winery
• Black Prince Winery & Canadian Cellars
• Parsons Brewing Company
• Lake on the Mountain Brewing Company
• Barley Days Brewery
• The County Cider Company
• Prince Edward County Private Tour from Toronto
• Diamond J Ranch
• The County Wine Tours
• Blumen Garden Bistro
• East & Main Bistro
• Acoustic Grill
• The Miller House Cafe Brasserie
• Drake Devonshire
• Newsroom Suites
• Owl’s Nest Suites

MORE ABOUT PRINCE EDWARD COUNTY

The peak of road trip season is in the summer when the weather is the best throughout the province and everything is open. That said, it is also the busiest. Fall is a fantastic season to do Ontario road trips because of the changing leaves. The quietest is in the winter but some reasons have winter-specific activities and sights to see.

If you follow this guide , you’ll know that we highly recommend Oxford County, Niagara Region, Hamilton, Algonquin, Thousand Islands, Bruce Peninsula, the Kawarthas, and Prince Edward County.

With a 3 day long weekend, you’ll have a lot of flexibility to have a more thorough road trip so this is your chance to go a little further than normal. Depending on where you live, this could be Bruce Peninsula with an add-on to Manitoulin Island, or a longer camping trip in say Algonquin or Sand Banks Provincial Park.

Looking to hit the road from Toronto? For a drive that’s less than 2 hours, we recommend Oxford County, Niagara Region, Hamilton, Algonquin, Thousand Islands, Bruce Peninsula, the Kawarthas, and Prince Edward County.

If you live in Ottawa, an easy road trip are drives out to Thousand Islands, Prince Edward County, and Algonquin.

The best road trip on the weekend is to Oxford County, Niagara Region, Hamilton, and Bruce Peninsula.

There are quite a few scenic drives in the province including the Niagara Parkway, through Algonquin Provincial Park (Highway 60), the Lake Superior Circle Tour, the Georgian Bay Coastal Route, Prince Edward County, The Long Sault Parkway, and Pelee Island.

In the winter your best bet is to stay in southern Ontario for safe driving. This means the best Ontario road trips would be to Niagara Region (skating rink at Wayne Gretzky Estates, ice wine festival, lights at Niagara Falls), Prince Edward County (cozy B&B stays), Collingwood (Blue Mountain), Algonquin (a number of trails are open, snowshoeing, cross-country skiing), and Hamilton (frozen waterfalls).

What you should read next

• 16 Popular and Secret Weekend Trips from Toronto
• Top 15 Niagara Falls Wine Tours
• A 3 Day Niagara Falls Itinerary That Goes Beyond Just The Falls
• Waterfalls Near Toronto – Exploring the Cascades of Grey County
• Unique Winter Getaways in Ontario
• Outdoor Wellness Retreats in Ontario

About William Tang

William Tang is the Chief of Awesome behind the award-winning Going Awesome Places which is focused on outdoor adventure, and experiential travel. His true passion lies in telling stories, inspiring photography and videos, and writing detailed itineraries and travel guides. He is a member of Travel Media Association of Canada (TMAC), Society of American Travel Writers (SATW), Adventure Travel Trade Association (ATTA), and Travel Massive. He has also been featured in publications such as Reader's Digest, Entrepreneur, Men's Journal, and Haute Living. Make sure to learn more about William Tang to find out his story and how Going Awesome Places started.

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5 Cute Southern Ontario Towns Worth the Road Trip

These destination spots outside toronto offer undeniable charm..

• Writer Jim Bamboulis

Sprinkled across Southern Ontario’s lush countryside, small, quaint towns exude undeniable charm with locals eager to welcome you. From picturesque Elora to peaceful Picton , these adorable destinations offer heartwarming allure, making for worthy road trips from Toronto.

Paris, filled with outdoor adventure, culinary delights, and loads of cultural richness, is located about two hours west of Toronto. In Paris, the Cobblestone Capital of Canada because of its cobblestone buildings, explore charming boutiques, indulge in French-inspired cuisine, and top it off with a stroll along the bank of the Grand River.

Called Ontario’s most beautiful village by Group of Seven artist A.J. Casson, Elora offers adventures, dining, and culture. While Elora’s lovely, limestone-rich town centre with artisan shops and trendy cafés will fascinate, its stunning, expansive gorge will pump your adrenaline and leave you in awe. Come in July and take in the Elora Festival, an intimate and much revered three-week choral festival going strong for more than 40 years.

Photo by Sue Thompson

Wineries and breweries pepper Huron County as you head to Goderich, known for its historic octagonal town centre, The Square, home to the courthouse, bright shops, and eclectic finds. Goderich’s three-day Celtic Roots Festival is a hit every August, but you can enjoy the old town feel anytime. Head to Goderich Harbour Restaurant, a.k.a. The Old Saltie, for classic fish and chips, stroll the 1.5-kilometre boardwalk, take a dip in Lake Huron’s turquoise waters at St. Christopher’s Beach, and experience a sunset from Lighthouse Park.

Photo by Miguel

Niagra-on-the-Lake

Locals venture in droves to Niagara-on-the-Lake (NOTL), a vibrant and timeless, classic yet modern enclave 20 kilometres north of Niagara Falls. A year-round hot spot, NOTL is surrounded by award-winning wineries and best explored on foot, thanks to its many boutiques, restaurants, and spas. January features the delicious Niagara Icewine Festival, and the Shaw Festival celebrates theatrical excellence from February to December. Whether you stroll along picturesque Front Street with its majestic homes or flower-lined Queen Street, Niagara-on-the-Lake enthralls every time.

Photo by Rick Harris

Meanwhile, on Lake Ontario’s north shore, Picton has the beauty of a Hallmark movie set. Located in Prince Edward County (PEC), this ever-popular gem boasts historic Loyalist architecture, quaint Main Street shops, artisanal sips and bites, and a thriving arts scene. A must-stop is the century-old Regent Theatre, a pristine Edwardian film and performance house that dominates the streetscape. On the whole, PEC is considered to be the Gastronomic Capital of Ontario, and the Taste Trail self-guided tour and Countylicious twice-annual restaurant promotion help foodies experience local flavours.

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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!

You might also like: 20 Driving Tips for Scotland

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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Ultimate Southern Ontario Road Trip

Sandwiched between three of the five Great Lakes, Southern Ontario , while primarily farmland and forest, also contains the Niagara Escarpment, home to the world-famous Bruce Trail. While the Greater Toronto Area (GTA) is the most heavily populated region of the province, those exploring Southern Ontario will quickly find that traveling just a short distance will get them away from the hustle and bustle of the Big Smoke, leading them to quaint small-town communities and plenty of natural attractions.

Multi-lane highways offer quick access to most locations in the southern portion of this region, but quieter secondary roads make up the bulk of the rest of the routes. Most travellers will not have to stray off a paved road anywhere here unless they want to!

Exploring the Big Smoke aka Toronto

It is safe to say that Toronto offers something for everyone. Museum lovers can check out the Art Gallery of Ontario, the Royal Ontario Museum or the Hockey Hall of Fame, all located in the downtown core and just a short walk from Union Station. To the east on the Scarborough/Pickering border, nature lovers will find the Toronto Zoo, which features over 5,000 animals and Rouge Urban Park, Canada’s newest National Park. It is a safe bet to say you have seen the Distillery District, home to 40 boutique shops, art galleries and micro-breweries, as a backdrop to a few movies you have watched. Located at 55 Mill Street, it is an easy 20 minute walk from Union Station. If you are fearless, try the Edge Walk at the top of the CN Tower, the hard to miss tower near the foot of Yonge Street. Here you walk on a 1.5 metre (5 foot) ledge and lean out at an angle, 356 metres (1,168 feet) above the ground! 

Waterfalls and Wineries

Leaving the city behind, it is time to jump on the QEW. This multilane highway connects Toronto to Niagara Falls, passing through the cities of Oakville, Hamilton, Grimsby and St Catharines on the way. Waterfall lovers will want to spend some time in the Hamilton area, detouring off the QEW at Exit 88 and following Red Hill Valley Parkway south to visit Alboin Falls, Felker’s Falls and the Devil’s Punchbowl. Known as the waterfall capital of Ontario, a little more exploring in Hamilton area will lead to Borer’s Falls, Tew Falls and Webster’s Falls, to name just a few. 

Ontario has two main wine producing areas, and while traveling along the southwestern shores of Lake Ontario leading to the town of Niagara-on-the-Lake, it would be hard to toss a stick and not hit a winery. The majority of the wineries can be found by an easy out-and-back off the QEW, along Highway 55 between the QEW and Niagara-on-the-Lake or along the Niagara Parkway. Worthwhile stops include the Magnotta Winery near Beamsville, Alvento Winery at Jordan, Wayne Gretzky and Trius Wineries near Virgil and Reif and Inniskillin Wineries off the Niagara Parkway. Plan to pick up a few bottles, but don’t sample too many on your route!

The scenic community of Niagara-on-the-Lake is home to both the Shaw Festival and the Fort George National Historic Site, well worth a visit before following the Niagara Parkway to Niagara Falls. As you make your way south, plan a stop at Niagara Glen, which is found off the parkway just south of the Lewiston-Queenston Bridge. Stairs lead down deep into the Niagara Gorge and 4 km (2.5 miles) of trails lead through Carolinian forest and along the rushing Niagara River.

Niagara Falls itself is definitely a site to see, and it is quite easy to get caught up in all the tourist trappings surrounding these stunning falls. Fallsview Boulevard and the Clifton Hill District have plenty of attractions and restaurants, all within easy walking distance of the falls. Just to the north, visit the historic Queen Street District with many buildings still featuring their 1850’s architecture.

Motorcycles and Migrating Birds

Leaving Niagara Falls behind, continue south on the parkway to Fort Erie before picking up Highway 3 and heading west along the shores of Lake Erie. If you are into motorcycles and it happens to be Friday the 13 th , take a detour south at the town of Jarvis to Port Dover. From spring to fall, on this superstitious day, literally a thousand bikes invade this small lakeside community. If you are into bikes, you will be in heaven. If you are not, well, you have been warned! 

The shores of Lake Erie are also a birdwatcher’s paradise. Just west of Port Dover, Turkey Point along with Long Point National Wildlife Area and Inner Bay are migratory stopovers. While we are turning the steering wheel northwest from here, those who want more bird watching opportunities may want to continue west along Highway 3 to Point Pelee National Park. Here you will find several hiking trails and a long sandy beach, perfect for getting up close to our winged friends.

Shakespeare and Lake Huron Sunsets

From Long Point, secondary roads lead north through quaint smaller communities including Tillsonburg, Ingersol and St Marys to Stratford. Home of the Stratford Shakespeare Festival, park the car and explore this historic town full of unique boutiques, visit the Shakespeare Gardens along the shore of the Avon River or partake in one of two historic walking tours.

From Stratford, County Roads 20 and 83 lead to the tourist town of Grand Bend, a summer beach destination. Following Highway 21 north on route to Owen Sound, it is possible to visit four spectacular Provincial Parks – The Pinery, Point Farms, MacGregor Point and Inverhuron. There is just something about watching a sunset over the Great Lakes, and it’s worth spending an evening at any of these parks.

Flowerpots and Grottos

Picking up Highway 6 at Owen Sound, this often busy, two lane highway leads north to the tip of the Bruce Peninsula and Tobermory. This area is home to the most rugged section of the Bruce Trail, Greig’s Caves, Bruce Peninsula National Park and the famous Grotto. Side roads off Highway 6 provide access to the Bruce Trail and hikers can complete loops or out-and-back treks along the rugged escarpment. 

A boat ride from Tobermory to Fathom Five National Marine Park leads to Flowerpot Island. Here, trails allow you to explore these ancient rock sea stacks, ravaged over time by the relentless pounding of the Georgian Bay waters. While the Grotto is a must visit, it has become extremely popular and any visitors must book a four-hour parking slot with Parks Canada. Plan to visit the park’s visitor centre in Tobermory and hike the Burnt Point Loop Trail. Weaving in and out of the forest, it offers great access to the beautiful turquoise waters the Bruce is famous for.

Caves and Endless Beach

Making your way back down Highway 6 to Owen Sound, head east on Highway 26 with the next stop on the road trip being the Scenic Caves, west of Collingwood. Home to a maze of caves and crevices that run deep underground through limestone cliffs, they can be explored via trails, suspension bridges and walkways.

Continuing east leads into Wasaga Beach, home to the longest freshwater beach in the world. You will walk a long way out into the water before you even reach your waist! 

Insider tip: Beach One is often quite busy but the further west you go, the less crowded the beaches become.

Backroads to the Big Smoke

From Wasaga Beach, it is time to head south and back to the GTA. While you can jump on Highway 400 and speed back to the city, there is a host of Conservation Areas to check out along the backroads, including the Duncan Escarpment, Eugenia Falls and Mono Cliffs to name just a few.

Here your 2 nd Edition of the Southern Ontario Mapbook will be your guide. While it is less than two hours from Wasaga Beach to Toronto, you could easily spend two or three days exploring and hiking some spectacular escarpment scenery. 

The last stop on this southern Ontario Road Trip is located just north of Brampton. The Cheltenham Badlands, unique in Eastern Canada, were formed at the base of an ancient sea over 400 million years ago. 

Ready to Explore?

This road trip through Southern Ontario has only touched on the many interesting locations spread throughout this region of the province. With over 300 hiking trails, many leading to some spectacular scenery and natural attractions, there is no shortage of sites to see. Detours on your road trip can lead you to the Elora Gorge, the 10 metre (33 foot) Hilton Falls, the 18 metre (59 foot) Inglis Falls, the Raptor Centre at Mountsberg Conservation Area, or a climb above the former bays of Algonquin Lake. And at 885 kilometers (550 miles), regardless of where you spend a day on the Bruce Trail, the landscape will not disappoint. All of these adventures are conveniently mapped out and described in our Southern Ontario Mapbook . 

Ready to head out and visit the many great Southern Ontario destinations? Pick up a copy of the recently released 2 nd Edition of our Southern Ontario mapbook and get out there! For those that prefer mobile, the BRMB Maps app and Web Map are the perfect addition to the paper mapbook. 

Did we miss your favourite Southern Ontario location? Drop us a line or post a photo on Instagram ( #brmblife ) and let us know.

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Home » Blog » Great Road Trips to Take in Southern Ontario

Great Road Trips to Take in Southern Ontario

There’s nothing like the joy of the open road on your way to a new destination. What would make it better is if you could leave the driving to someone else—and bring all your friends with you! If you’re considering a road trip in Ontario, going on a bus tour or renting a bus and driver for your group is a great option. There’s no need to think about traffic or parking, there’s no luggage limit, and there’s an onboard bathroom! You won’t have to worry about a thing; simply pack your favorite delicious snacks, lay back, and relax.

Now that you know how you’re going to get there, where do you want to go? Southern Ontario is rich with some amazing little spots to visit, whether your pleasure is camping, lounging on the beach, or enjoying nature. Within a few hours’ drive are some locations that make for a perfect bus trip.

Niagara-on-the-Lake

Only a 90-minute drive from Toronto, the town of Niagara-on-the-Lake is a terrific spot for a mini vacation. From its unique buildings to its incredible wineries, this lovely locale has so much to offer. The downtown Heritage District is an excellent shopping venue, and for accommodations, perhaps reserve a room at one of the many bed and breakfasts. Depending on your budget, these gorgeous homes with their beautiful architecture are a lovely alternative to a hotel.

The Shaw Festival runs from April to December, and seeing one of their 13 plays is a must. The theatre at the Shaw is world-class, so you’re sure to be in for a wonderful performance. Set aside a day to tour one of the numerous wineries in Niagara-on-the-Lake and then stay for dinner. Afterwards, catch an outdoor concert at the amphitheatre at Jackson-Triggs Winery.

Thousand Islands

The Thousand Islands region is about a three-hour bus ride from Toronto. Located in southeastern Ontario, it’s about 15 minutes from the U.S. border crossing into Upper New York State. ( Gananoque , a beautiful waterfront community, is the gateway to the islands.) The Thousand Islands are a perfect location for a getaway that’s rich in interesting things to see and do. History buffs will appreciate the old lighthouses and ancient castles (and learning that pirates and Prohibition bootleggers once controlled its waters!). Outdoor activities like diving, fishing, kayaking, and golf are also plentiful. Scenic cottages line the peaceful waters of the Thousand Islands; it may be worth renting one during your stay.

Tobermory is located at the very tip of Bruce Peninsula, with Georgian Bay on one side and Lake Huron on the other. It is 295 km northwest of Toronto and about a four- to five-hour drive. This is one of the most stunning locations in Southern Ontario. Its varying habitats, forests, cliffs, and abundant wild orchids make it a very special place to visit. In fact, its natural beauty is why it’s at the centre of the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve . Besides the glistening water that surrounds it, Tobermory also boasts two provincial parks: Fathom Five National Marine Park and Bruce Peninsula National Park.

Discover Fathom Five National Marine Park by taking a tour boat out to Flowerpot Island (and see if you can spot the shipwrecks!). Once there, tour the lighthouse museum, explore numerous hiking trails and caves, and, of course, the natural stone pillar flowerpots. In Bruce Peninsula National Park, head to another popular tourist destination called The Grotto, a sea cave with impossibly blue waters. The Cove Island Lighthouse is located on another nearby island, reachable by private tour and lush with spectacular scenery.

You won’t want to miss strolling around the harbour and marina in Tobermory; it’s a nice way to relax and watch the collection of boats sail through. There are also several delicious restaurants where you can savor a relaxing meal after a long day of sightseeing.

Sandbanks Provincial Park

Sandbanks Provincial Park is located in Prince Edward County, 220 km east of Toronto (just below Trenton), and takes about three hours by bus. This is an ideal destination if you love camping, as there are over 500 car campsites and five different campground areas. The park has many hiking trails and a baymouth barrier dune formation that is known to be the biggest in the world. In the spring and fall, thousands of birds migrate to the area—it’s quite an impressive sight!

You can find a variety of other activities here, including fishing, canoeing, swimming, and speed boating. Park staff run the National Heritage Education Program that offers educational courses and events throughout the summer. There are also many family-friendly activities like campfires and slideshows in the evenings. After visiting the park, you may want to experience the rest of Prince Edward County, especially its wineries, antique shops, and biking tours.

Ottawa is a five-and-a-half hour drive northeast of Toronto. This is a small but charming city where the Parliament Building sits atop Parliament Hill overlooking the Ottawa River. Tours are free of charge, so it’s definitely worth going to explore the inner workings of our nation’s government. During the summer, the Ceremonial Guard of the Canadian Army marches onto the East Lawn of Parliament Hill to take part in the Changing of the Guard (also free). The ceremony starts every morning at 9:50 a.m., but get there early if you want a good viewing spot.

The Rideau Canal is 200 km long and divides Central Ottawa. In Lower Town, the National Gallery of Canada and Notre-Dame Cathedral are must-sees. The area below the Parliament Buildings is Upper Town, a fantastic shopping and dining area. Additionally, it’s host to the architecturally fascinating Bank of Canada building. Other interesting sites to see in Ottawa are:

• Dows Lake Pavilion
• Royal Canadian Mint
• ByWard Market
• National War Memorial
• Peace Tower
• Canadian War Museum
• Canadian Tulip Festival
• Canadian Aviation and Space Museum

Now that you have some ideas for great road trips in southern Ontario, it’s time to start planning your next getaway. Imagine what a relaxing vacation you could have with no worries at all, including driving. You know you deserve it, don’t you?

At Parkinson Coach Lines, put your travel and safety needs in our hands. We have been renting and chartering buses in Toronto since 1922. Give us a call at (905) 451-4776 for more information or request a quote .

Southern Ontario Road Trips To Get You Through Winter!

December 4, 2020

By Jennifer Merrick | December 4, 2020

Elmhirst's Resort -sleigh ride Photo Jennifer Merrick

I admit our family’s Southern Ontario road trips don’t always begin particularly well. It’s usually an early start, so the kids grumpily gather their stuff for the car as their parents gulp down coffee like it’s water. But as the day progresses, spirits lift and smiles return. The change in scenery, the novelty of a new activity, or maybe even a gooey dessert, but most of all, time together, turns out to be exactly what we need.

Here are some Southern Ontario Road Trips to enjoy a break in routine and time with loved ones.

The Festival Theatre, Stratford, Photo Hailey Eisen

Home of the bard, day trips to this southwestern Ontario town have traditionally meant taking in a world-class show. But even when its stages are empty, Stratford merits a standing ovation for its charm, food and shops. Walking the trails along the beautiful Avon River, sampling shortbread on the Christmas Trail or enjoying a wood-oven pizza and a brew at Jobsite Brewery, you’ll almost (but not quite) forget about the performances.

Elmhirst’s Resort

Sleigh ride at Elmhirst Resort. Photo Courtesy Elmhirst Resort

Located in Keene, Ontario, near Peterborough, this 340-acre scenic property on Rice Lake is the ideal spot to escape for the day (or longer) with a smorgasbord of activities on offer. The Escape the Maze experience, a cross between a scavenger hunt and an escape room puzzle, is a clever and fun way to explore the grounds. Or indulge in a spa service like Tui Na Massage (deep tissue Chinese-style treatment), Oxgeneo Premium Facial or the I Feel the Earth Move Pedicure .   For more adrenaline-fueled pursuits, visitors can take to the skies on a sightseeing flight to view the land of shining lakes or try snowkiting. Of course, there are also more traditional winter activities like ice skating, sleigh rides and snowshoeing. Hungry after all these activities? Enjoy a farm-to-table meal at the Hearthside Dining Room .

Hamilton Waterfalls

Websters Falls,  Hamilton. Photo Courtesy Hamilton Tourism

The Hamilton Region is home to more than 100 waterfalls dotting the Niagara Escarpment that cuts through the city. Webster Falls is the largest and most popular though equally impressive is nearby Tews Falls with its 135-foot drop (second only to Niagara Falls). The Webster Side Trail leads to Dundas Peak , a lookout with jaw-dropping views of the valley.

Other waterfalls include Tiffany Falls , where a short walk along a forested trail and over bridges leads you to this beauty hemmed in by cliffs . Devil’s Punch Bowl (gotta love the name) consists of two separate falls that create one of the escarpment’s most impressive and geologically significant views with its layers of stratified rock.

Sandbanks Provincial Park

Sandbanks Provincial Parks. Photo Jennifer Merrick

Winter brings its own brand of beauty to this popular park in southeastern Ontario. Its trails are open year-round, and on windy days, you can watch the kite surfers. After working up an appetite, Prince Edward County offers culinary options galore at their restaurants, artisanal food producers, wineries and distilleries.  Treat yourself to s’mores by the fire and wine samples at Sandbanks Winery or a scrumptious brunch at the Drake Devonshire .

Halton Region Conservation Areas

Crawford Lake Halton Photo Jennifer Merrick

  In the middle of Toronto and Hamilton is a protected greenbelt zone, where nature takes precedent over suburban sprawl. Six conservation areas offer interpretive trails and programming, and each offers something different to the visitor. Crawford Lake has a 14 th -century Iroquois village to explore, in addition to the wheelchair-accessible boardwalk around the lake, where evidence of the settlement was discovered. Rattlesnake Point has 6 miles of cliff edge and forest trails with five panoramic lookout points. A highlight of Hilton Falls is a 32-foot waterfall that cascades over the Niagara Escarpment. Like neighbouring parks Mount Memo and Kelso , it offers hiking trails showcasing unique geological features and historical ruins.

For bird lovers, nearby Mountsberg is not to be missed. Its extensive wetlands provide a natural habitat for many native species, which visitors can observe at bird watching blinds. The area is particularly known for its birds of prey, and visitors can learn more about these majestic birds at the park’s Raptor Centre .

Categories: Canada , Featured , News & Reviews , Ontario Tags: Family Travel , Grey County , Hamilton , Peterborough , Toronto

Jennifer Merrick

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Road Trips from Toronto – The 10 Best Ontario Road Trips

Our top 10 Ontario Road Trips take you to some of the province’s most amazing destinations and places to visit.

Ontario offers stunning scenic drives, perfect for your next weekend road trip from Toronto. Just a few hours from the city there are beautiful natural landscapes, charming small towns, and exciting attractions waiting to be explored.

Table of Contents

10 Best Ontario Road Trips

• Niagara-on-the-Lake – 2 Days
• Algonquin Park – 2 Days
• Prince Edward County – 2 Days
• Ottawa – 1 Day
• Niagara Falls – 2 Days
• Camping at Killbear Provincial Park – 2 Days
• Rideau Canal Towns – 1 Day
• Grey County Waterfalls – 1 Day
• Manitoulin Island – 2 Days
• Thunder Bay – A Northern Ontario Road Trip – 2 Weeks

Map of the 10 Best Places to Visit in Ontario

These 10 road trip destinations are an easy drive from Toronto. Click on any of the coloured circles on the map to see our detailed articles.

Niagara-on-the-Lake

Duration: 2 Days

Niagara-on-the-Lake is our pick for the best Ontario road trip destination.  Its beauty, relaxed atmosphere and many attractions keep us coming back year after year.

Start your visit with a stroll down flower-lined Queen Street and do some shopping in the quaint downtown shops.  Treat yourself to some tasty fudge or ice cream. A visit to this heritage downtown is not complete without indulging in afternoon tea at the historic Prince of Wales hotel.  The dainty sandwiches and scones are delicious!

There are many fine restaurants, pubs and breweries to try.  Enjoy the traditional English-style pub fare and live tunes at the Olde Angel Inn, Ontario’s oldest operating inn. 

Learn about Canada’s early history on a tour of Fort George and the many museums and historic sites in the area.

The town is the largest wine producing region in the Niagara Peninsula. Visit renowned Niagara-on-the-Lake wineries , sipping several celebrated Ontario vintages. We highly recommend indulging in a gourmet dinner right at the vineyard.

Top off your visit by experiencing world-class theatre at the renowned Shaw Festival .

With its beautiful setting, quaint shops, renowned wineries, and cultural attractions, Niagara-on-the-Lake is the perfect weekend escape!

See our article, Best Things to Do in Niagara-on-the-Lake , for more great spots to visit in this picturesque and charming town.

Algonquin Park

With its vast and diverse landscape, Ontario has many places with great hiking options.  One of the best places for hiking is Algonquin Park.  This is Ontario’s oldest and largest Provincial Park.  Algonquin serves up easy to access, premier hiking.  There are more than 15 trails to choose from just along the main Highway 60 corridor.

Make a day trip, or spend a weekend and explore these trails.  Top picks include the easy 1.5-km Spruce Bog Boardwalk loop to see a fascinating bog ecosystem up close.  The 2.1-km Whiskey Rapids Trail treats you to river views while the 3.5-km Hemlock Bluff loop you through hemlock stands and Jack Lake vistas.

For a challenge, we recommend hiking the 10.4-km Centennial Ridges loop. The panoramas from the high ridges are well worth the effort.

You’ll need to book your campsite reservation 5 months in advance, as these popular campgrounds fill up fast.

For more information on camping and hiking, see our article Best Hiking Trails in Algonquin Park .  In the article, we’ve selected our 6 top picks for an unforgettable Algonquin adventure.

Prince Edward County

Prince Edward County, located on the shores of Lake Ontario is just 2 hours from Toronto, making it a great weekend getaway.

Start with a wine tasting tour.  The region’s viniculture has grown rapidly in the last two decades with over 30 wineries to visit.  You’ll discover amazing vintages like Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. Can’t decide which wineries to go to?  We’ve got you covered with our 10 Best Wineries in Prince Edward County .

Make sure to spend time at Sandbanks Provincial Park .  Its massive sand dunes and landscapes are impressive and somewhat unique in Ontario.  For beach goers, Sandbanks has three white sand beaches.  North Beach Provincial Park, located nearby, also has excellent beaches.

For history buffs, the charming town of Picton has lots to offer.  Discover 19th century buildings and visit Macaulay Heritage Park. 

Just outside of town, take a relaxing stroll along the rows of purple flowers at the lavender farm.

Be sure to sample some local beer on an outdoor patio at one of the many craft breweries in Prince Edward County .

Prince Edward County has become a popular Ontario destination.  With its natural beauty, outdoor adventures, and of course the wineries, the County provides an unforgettable escape.

To discover everything there is to see, check out our article Best Things to Do in Prince Edward County .

Duration: 1 Day

In just one day you can see the best of Ottawa, Canada’s capital.  Take a walking tour with a focus on hitting the iconic downtown sites.

Start on Parliament Hill with its Gothic Revival buildings and monuments honouring famous Canadians.  Snap photos at the Rideau Canal Locks and the castle-like Château Laurier hotel.  Don’t miss the ByWard Market , bustling with shops, cafes and restaurants.  As the sun sets, see the city and the Parliament buildings light up!

With a second day, go further and visit the great museums that Ottawa has to offer.  Visit the National Gallery to admire Canadian and European artworks. Discover natural history at the Museum of Nature and Canada’s heritage at the War Museum and Museum of History.

Just beyond the city, see the waterfalls at Rideau Falls Park and tour the grand Rideau Hall.

Ottawa offers vibrant city sites, natural beauty and world-class museums for an unforgettable visit, no matter how long you stay.

For a detailed description of this walking tour and more information on all of Ottawa’s great museums, see our article, Ottawa in a Day .

Niagara Falls

Get ready to jam in a lot of activities on a weekend in Niagara Falls.

Start at iconic Horseshoe Falls for a breathtaking view of the famous falls.  To get even closer, take the elevator down to the tunnels and prepare to get wet on the thrilling Journey Behind the Falls .

For families, head over to Clifton Hill to ride the go-karts or mini-golf with the huge dinosaurs.  Ride the Sky Wheel for panoramic views of both the falls and the city.

At night, there’s still plenty to do.  Try your luck at the casinos’ endless gaming options or visit the Niagara Falls Power Station.  At night their mesmerizing “Currents” light show brings the falls’ history to life.

On the next day, see the falls again from totally different perspectives.  Enjoy the Hornblower cruise up the Niagara River right up to the tumbling water of the falls.  For another drier view ride the Zipline and soar over the gorge.

For a slower pace, walk among fluttering butterflies at the Conservatory or visit the local History Museum.

Visiting Niagara Falls is one of the best road trips from Toronto . See our article, 2 Days in Niagara Falls , for the 12 Best Things to Do in a packed and fun-filled weekend.

Ontario Camping at Killbear Provincial Park

Ontario has a plethora of drive-in and backcountry camping opportunities.  In addition to the many private campgrounds, the province operates over 100 provincial parks that have car camping.  Our favourite place to camp is Killbear Provincial Park.

Located just 3 hours north of Toronto, this is an easy park to visit for a day or the entire weekend. 

Pitch your tent at one of the park’s many campsites, like family-friendly Beaver Dams or popular Kilcoursie Bay.  There are over 1000 campsites to choose from.

Hike the trails and see the lighthouse or take in the bay views from Twin Points.  After an exhilarating day, unwind on the rocks to enjoy the perfect sunset.

One of the most unique activities at the park is cliff jumping .  From the ledge at Harold Point, cliff jump 10 metres into the waters of Georgian Bay below.

See our article, Camping and Cliff Jumping at Killbear Provincial Park , for even more details on how to enjoy camping at this park.

Rideau Canal Towns

This scenic road trip travels from Kingston to Ottawa.  Along the way, discover charming towns and learn about the historic Rideau Canal. Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site , the Rideau Canal is an engineering marvel.  It is the only 19 th -century canal still fully functioning on its original route.

Stop at Jones Falls to see the massive stone dam, built entirely by hand in the 1820s. Walk the easy loop to see the locks, blacksmith shop and the fortified lockmaster’s home. Have a picnic at Chaffey’s Lock.  Then explore Perth ‘s downtown , lined with heritage buildings.

Continue to Smiths Falls to visit the canal museum in an old grist near the original lock station. Here you can see functioning canal locks up close. Nearby is a railway museum with its collection of vintage railcars. Finish the day by wandering the heritage village of Merrickville , grabbing a tasty ice cream.

We highly recommend doing this drive in the Fall to enjoy the seasons’ changing colours.  For more details on this fabulous road trip, see our article, Rideau Canal Towns – A Scenic Road Trip to Ottawa .

Grey County Waterfalls

Head over to Grey County for an amazing waterfall road trip.  Just two hours from Toronto, Grey County makes a perfect weekend or day trip escape.

Start at Holstein Dam located at Jubilee Park.   Bring your swimsuit to cool off in the whirlpool below McGowan Falls .  The hike to Hoggs Falls is one of the best-kept secrets along the Bruce Trail.

The star of the show is the mighty Eugenia Falls , the highest in Grey County at 30 metres.  Visit the waterfall and walk the trails of this lovely Conservation Area.

Another amazing waterfall is 18-metre high Inglis Falls , which cascades over a series of limestone shelves of the Niagara Escarpment.  There are several more waterfalls to enjoy.

Our guide Grey County Waterfalls Road Trip directs you to all eight must-see waterfalls in the region.

Manitoulin Island

Manitoulin Island is the perfect destination for outdoor adventures, small town charm, and Indigenous cultural experiences. It is one of the best road trips in Ontario.

To get to the island, take the car ferry from Tobermory to South Baymouth on the island or cross the famous Little Current Swing Bridge to access Manitoulin from the north.

Make your first stop at Bridal Veil Falls .  It is a beautiful 11-metre waterfall.  Walk behind the waterfall for a different perspective.

Another must-do activity on the island is the Cup and Saucer Trail .  This can be a challenging hike.  Once you get to the top, you are rewarded with stunning vistas over Lake Manitou and beyond.

The island has many lovely towns to explore.  At the village of Kagawong, learn about the area’s history at the Old Mill Museum.  Gore Bay is known for its museums and brewery, and Providence Bay is home to a long sandy beach and a lovely boardwalk.

Experience Indigenous culture by visiting the First Nations communities of Wikwemikong and M’Chigeeng. See their cultural sites and attend a traditional Pow Wow festival.

See our article Manitoulin Island Road Trip , for more details on all the places to visit on this fabulous road trip.

Thunder Bay – A Northern Ontario Road Trip

Duration: 2 Weeks

As well as all the great road trip ideas in southern Ontario, a longer trip to the vast beauty of Northern Ontario should not be missed.

This trip to Thunder Bay can be done in one week.  However, we recommend spending 2 weeks or even longer.  With its towering forests, the rugged Canadian Shield and Lake Superior’s stunning shoreline, there are so many worthy places to stop along the way.

Drive north from Toronto to Highway 17 and the road trip route to Thunder Bay.  Enjoy the city of Sudbury’s attractions before continuing west to the city of Sault Ste Marie .  The route has many small towns to discover.  Learn about their mining and forestry heritage.

Continue along the Lake Superior shoreline to some of Ontario’s best provincial parks.  Include time in your trip plan to climb Sleeping Giant , considered Ontario’s best day hike.

In Thunder Bay , visit historic Fort William and see the magnificent Kakabeka Falls, the second highest waterfall in Ontario after Niagara Falls.

Return home by driving the same route back, visiting places you missed, or better yet, drive the northerly Highway 11 to see even more of remote Northern Ontario.  See the polar bears at the Cochrane Polar Bear Habitat.  Visit the historic mining towns of Timmins and Cobalt .  Make a final stop at North Bay to take a boat cruise and watch the sunset over Lake Nipissing.

With so much natural splendour and opportunities for adventure, a Northern Ontario road trip is the perfect summer getaway.  For more details, check on our article, The Ultimate Northern Ontario Road Trip .

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Andy is the co-founder of Avrex Travel, where he shares his many travel experiences. Andy enjoys videography and creating great Road Trips for his readers.

Ontario Fall Colours Road Trips & Drives

Fall Colour Changes Make for Amazing Ontario Road Trips! 

Find below more than a dozen routes & suggested fall colour foliage road trips.

Pick Resorts and Cottage Country Destinations

• Alliston Nottawasaga Valley-Hockley Valley-Alton-Caledon
• Algonquin Park Area Fall Colour Drives-Choice of 3 routes
• Lake Simcoe-Round the Lake, Barrie, Orillia Fall Colours

Georgian Bay Fall Colour Routes

Muskoka fall colour road trips.

• Barrie to Orangeville Fall Colours Route

Haliburton – Huntsville Fall Colours Route

Lake simcoe fall colours circle tour, lake ontario shores from grafton to picton.

• Lakefield to Barry’s Fall Colours Bay
• Land O’Lakes: Lennox Addington Fall Historic Tour
• North Bay to Timmins, Gogama, Sudbury, North Bay Fall Colors (Colours)
• North Bay – Sudbury Fall Route colours (colors)
• Peterborough – Kawarthas Fall Route colours

Sault Ste. Marie Fall Route Colours

Fall leaf color report.

Before heading out check the designated  fall colour progression report for updates on leaf color changes.

Alliston | Nottawasaga Valley | Hockley Valley | Alton | Caledon

Driving Directions:  Take Highway 400 north to Highway 89. Travel west on Highway 89  through Alliston to County Road 18 (Airport Road). Proceed  south on County Road 18  to County Road 1 to Hockley Valley enjoy the fall colours. Leave Hockley Valley going back west to County Road 18 and proceed south to Mono Mills, and west on Highway 9 to Highway 400.

For latest fall colour changes please see  Fall Colour Report

Discover rural Ontario  Fall Fairs  and  Ontario attractions and events, activities .

York, Durham & Headwaters Area Tourism

Algonquin Fall Colours Getaways

The diversity of the Algonquin area resort destination is unmatched in North America. We have developed 3 suggested fall colour routes which could form part of an Algonquin Park circle tour drive or road trip. We have provided fall colour (color) road trips, the  Southern Algonquin Route ,  Algonquin East Side  and the  Northern Algonquin Route  as recommended touring routes with identifies attractions accommodation, and driving directions.

Algonquin Park Area Tourism

Barrie Lake Simcoe Backroads Fall Colours

The Lake Simcoe and Simcoe County area north of Toronto is easily accessible via Highway 400, or Highway 404 from the Toronto area. A round the lake road trip should be planned with an overnight stay in the Barrie or Orillia area. There are several side trips starting in the Barrie area that will take you through rural Ontario to Wasaga Beach Dufferin County

Four Road Trip Options start in Barrie Ontario Canada

Barrie to Horseshoe Valley to Orillia return to Barrie fall colours (colors) route Barrie to Elmvale, Wasaga Beach return via Minesing fall colours (colors) Barrie start to Lake Simcoe fall colours circle tour Barrie Simcoe County to Dufferin County

Georigan Bay fall colours can be outstanding either from a boat or canoe looking back at t he shoreline or with a road trip including the many bays, inlets and coves. The Bruce Peninsula and the Niagara Escarpment provide some of the most outstanding colour scenery in Canada. Take the Georgian Bay challenge and complete a road trip right around the Bay and you will realize that Georgian Bay should really be positioned as its own Lake (Lake Georgian Bay).Manitoulin Island, the largest island in a freshwater lake in the world is part of Georgian Bay and it is worth the drive to Tobermory to catch the MS Chi-Cheemaun passenger-vehicle ferry to the Island. Apple festivals, harvest festivals and fall fairs dominate during September and October as fun family activities.

Orillia & Lake Country Fall Tours & Trails

BruceGreySimcoe Tourism

Barrie-Stayner-Alliston-Orangeville-Hockley Valley-Caledon

Driving Directions: Take Highway 400 to Barrie Bayfield St. exit (Highway 26) west to Stayner. A beautiful view of fall colours is behind the Simcoe County buildings with extensive trails. Proceed on Highway 26 to Stayner south on County Road 42  (Airport Rd.) which changes to County Road 18 to Mansfield. Continue south to Highway 89.  Go west on 89 for a nice diversion in Violet Hill with a stop to Mrs. Mitchell’s. for lunch. Return on 89-Travel east on Highway 89 to Highway 50. Proceed on Highway 50 south to Loretto. Go west again to Hockley on Country Rd 1 and 7 and enjoy the fall colours. After leaving Hockley go south on 3rd line E.  to Highway 9 go weston Highway 9 to Horseshoe Rd. Turn right on Horseshoe Hill Rd. to Highway 24. Turn right on Highway 24 to Caledon.  Make your way back to Highway 400 by driving east through a variety of back roads. 

Driving Directions:  Take Highway 11 north to Highway 118 east. Travel east on 118 to Hiwghway 35 and proceed south on 35 to Minden. Take 121 east to the picturesque village of Haliburton, then take Highway 118 west from Haliburton Village back to Highway 35. Proceed north to the village of Dorset, to the Lookout Tower at Dorset.***** Proceed north on 35 to Dwight and go west on Highway 60 to Huntsville, return home via Highway 11 from Huntsville.

Haliburton Highlands Tourism

Driving Directions:  One of the interesting fall colour routes close to Toronto is a tour around Lake Simcoe using a combination of Highway 400, Highway 11, and a number of side roads that take your through Barrie, Orillia, Lagoon City, Beaverton, Sutton, Keswick, Holland Landing. This tour route can be started on the East Side of Lake Simcoe, or the West Side going north.

Discover the beauty of Northumberland and the shores of Lake Ontario. Drive the 401 north east to Grafton. Take the 401 to Exit #487, Lyle St. Grafton. Turn North on Lyle Street, for about 1.5 km to Academy Hill Road. Turn Left, follow this road until you can go no further, turn left and Ste. Anne’s main building will be 500 metres away on your left. Look for the Haldimand Hills Spa Village Signs and this will take you to St. Annes Country Inn and Spa for a magnificent view of Lake Ontario. Travel back to Grafton towards the 401, however proceed through Grafton to Highway 2. Travel along the old lake Highway 2 through Brighton to Trenton and proceed south on Highway 33 to Picton. Explore the area of Prince Edward County and return via Highway 49 to Marysville for your return to Grafton via the 401.

Southeastern Ontario Tourism

Lakefield to Barry’s Bay Fall Colours

Driving Directions:  Drive north from Peterbourgh along the river on county road 23 to Lakefield. Proceed north from Lakefield on Highway 28. You will start to see the transition of land forms and colours in the Canadian Shield—more rock, contrasting evergreens with backdrops of fall color will provide many photographic opportunities. Take Highway 28 to Bancroft, and proceed north to Highway 62 and Maynooth. Stay on 62 to Barry’s Bay where you will pass through the Hamlet of Maple Leaf, and Combermere(watch for scenic lookout sign just before Combermere. Interesting Side Trips: Buckhorn, Harcourt.

Discover Muskoka fall colours north of Toronto via Highway 400 and Highway 11. Muskoka starts at the Severn River (part of Trent-Severn Historic Waterway) and runs west to Georgian Bay, East to Haliburton and North of Huntsville. It is a vast area with many fall travel routes to explore and is close to Algonquin Park. There are a variety of events taking place in the fall including studio tours, fall fairs, colour festivals including the Cranberry Festival, antique shows, and more. The town of Port Carling is an interesting hub where Lake Muskoka, Lake Joseph, and Lake Rosseau meet.

Other Muskoka Tourism Fall Colour Road Trip Resources:

• Best Photo Locations
• Road Trips Map
• Best Fall Colour Experiences

North Bay to Timmins, Gogama, Sudbury, North Bay Fall Colors

Driving Directions:  A direct drive to Timmins will take you into gold country, not just because of the fall colors but as a result of the gold mining. Allow for an overnight stay to get the most out of the attractions in the area. Proceed north on Highway 11 from North Bay and travel through the towns of Marten River, Temagami, New Liskeard, to Matheson. In Matheson travel west to Timmins on ighway 101. Return to North Bay by travelling west on Highway 101 to Highway 144. Go south through Gogama to Sudbury, and east on Highway 17 through Sturgeon Falls to North Bay. 

Northern Ontario Tourism

North Bay – Sudbury Fall Route Colours

Driving Directions: Take Highway 11 north through Huntsville, Burks Fall (side trip to Magnetawan), Sundridge, South River, Trout Creek (side trip to Port Loring) Powassan, Callander, to North Bay. Go west on Highway 17 to Sudbury through to Sturgeon Falls West Nippising (side trip to Lavigne, Chrystal Falls), to Sudbury. Return on Highway 69 south through French River, Pointe au Baril, and Parry Sound (side trip to Ahmic Harbour). Continue South on Highway 69 to Highway 400.

Peterborough – Kawarthas Fall Route Colours

Driving Directions:  Take Highway 11 north to Highway 12 Orillia. Follow the signs toward Casino Rama and turn left at the Rama Road and follow the Rama Road to the first stop lights or County Road 45 Monck Road–turn right and proceed east to Norland. A stop here to see the animals is fun for the family. The fruit tarts are out of this world. Proceed east to Norland and turn right at Highway 35 and proceed south to County Road 8 and turn left to Fenlon Falls. Proceed to Bobcaygeon, take County Road 36 to Noggies Creek, to County Road 507 and proceed to Buckhorn. Proceed south on County Road 23 towards Lakefield and Peterborough.

Attraction Destinations With Fall Colour Views

Ontario Treetop Trekking locations Blue Mountain Resort Scenic Caves Nature Adventures Rounds Ranch Haliburton Forest & Wildlife Reserve Abbey Gardens Wye Marsh Wildlife Centre

Driving Directions:  Proceed to Sudbury via Highway 400 and 69 north to the Highway 17 Trans Canada. Proceed to Sault Ste. Marie through Blind River. Return on the same route or travel through Sudbury on Highway 17 to North Bay and south on Highway 11.

Sault Ste Marie - Algoma Tourism

Sault Ste. Marie to Wawa Fall Route Colours

One of Canada’s Top Ten Drives. Highway 17 from Sault Ste. Marie to Wawa, Ontario is one of the most spectacular drives in Canada. This highway winds its way north along the shore of one of the world’s largest freshwater lakes offering scenic views of and in the autumn, spectacular colours as the forest changes from maple and birch, to birch and conifers.

Fall Colours Report Updates

Fall color reports are updated twice a week by the Ministry of Tourism until the end of October. See the latest  Ontario Ministry of Tourism Fall Colour (colors) Report. A number of fall drives, travel routes, circle tours, regional Ontario travel and tourism association routes, and suggested Ministry of Tourism great fall drives have been identified in addition to the fall drives and road trips above. 

Fall Colour Pumpkin Halloween Routes

Fall Colours will be ending in many resort destinations in mid to late October . Fall foliage viewing can turn into pumpkin  and  Halloween road trip fun.

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Ontario fall fairs & fall harvest festivals, lake simcoe fall colour routes, deerhurst resort quiz time what is your muskoka persona.

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Love Exploring

Incredible Canadian Road Trips You Can Do In One Weekend

Posted: July 25, 2023 | Last updated: July 25, 2023

Hit the road

British Columbia: Nanaimo to Tofino

British Columbia: Vancouver to the Fraser Valley

The river valley makes for some of the most fertile farmland in Canada and many local food producers welcome visitors for either formal or self-guided tours. History lovers can also stop at the Fort Langley National Historic Site , an interpretive center that served as a working Hudson’s Bay Company fur trading post 150 years ago.

British Columbia: Vancouver to Whistler

Just the name of the road from Vancouver to Whistler – the Sea to Sky Highway – is enticing. The route, which actually terminates just north of Whistler in Pemberton is only 101 miles (163km) long, but it’s worth slowing down and taking the time to drink in the coastal views and stop to learn about British Columbia’s rich Indigenous history from the Cultural Journey interpretive kiosks posted along the way. 

British Columbia: Kelowna to Osoyoos

While the lakes and surrounding desert-like landscapes are beautiful, the geography of the area is also prime for grape growing. The highway is dotted with wineries, many of which offer tours and tastings to the public. The famed Golden Mile Bench, BC’s first official wine sub-region sits on the southern part of the journey between Oliver and Osoyoos, featuring wineries like Culmina Family Estate, Tinhorn Creek and Road 13. 

Discover what else to see in the Okanagan

Alberta: Banff to Jasper

The Icefields Parkway gets its name from the Columbia Icefield, the largest ice field in the Rocky Mountains. One of the Icefield’s “toes,” the Athabasca Glacier, can be accessed at about the halfway point of the journey, with its edge within walking distance of the main road. The glacier can be further explored via an on-site discovery center, snow coach tours, and the Glacier Skywalk, a glass-floored platform that juts out 918 feet (280m) over the Sunwapta Valley. 

Discover more of Canada's beautiful national parks

Alberta: Calgary to Bar U Ranch

Alberta’s Bar U Ranch National Historic Site offers a rare hands-on picture of Canada’s Wild West. The ranch dates back to the late 1800s and now offers interactive learning experiences to help visitors understand what life would have been like for Western Canada’s pioneering cowboys and cattle ranchers. The ranch is near the village of Longview, in the heart of Alberta’s still very active cattle ranching country.

Alberta: Edmonton to Drumheller

Those seemingly extraterrestrial hills also conceal a treasure trove of prehistoric fossils, making Drumheller the dinosaur capital of Canada. The Royal Tyrrell Museum is a world-class paleontology center, full of awe-inspiring dinosaur exhibits. For something a little less serious, the World’s Largest Dinosaur sits at the visitor center in downtown Drumheller. Guests can climb a stairway inside of the dinosaur and stand in its open mouth to get a better view of the town.

Brilliant destinations for dinosaur fans

Northwest Territories: Inuvik to Tuktoyaktuk

Saskatchewan: Regina to Moose Jaw

Moose Jaw is one of Canada’s more well-known cities, not because it’s particularly big and bustling, but because of its uniquely Canadian name. The municipality leans into its reputation – it actually has dubbed itself “Canada’s Most Notorious City.” The drive from Saskatchewan’s capital city Regina is a fairly quick one at just 44 miles (71km), but it does lead drivers through some spectacular Saskatchewan farmland. 

Saskatchewan: Saskatoon to Great Sand Hills

Yukon: Whitehorse to Dawson City

Manitoba: Winnipeg to Gimli

Ontario: Toronto to Niagara

Ontario: Toronto to Muskoka

One of Ontario’s many lakeside cottage getaways, Muskoka is just a little more than a two-hour drive north of Toronto. It sits between Georgian Bay, which is part of the Canadian side of Lake Huron, and Lake Couchiching with approximately 1,600 smaller lakes scattered in between. All of that lakeside property gives visitors plenty of opportunities to relax or play by the water. 

Discover Canada's lesser-known lakes

Ontario: Windsor to Stratford

Stratford, located on the Avon River (it’s all named after the Stratford in the UK), is best known for its Shakespearean theater festival. The city was first settled in 1828 and its rich history is apparent at every turn. While theater is Stratford’s calling card, visitors can also take in various parks and gardens or hit the self-guided Stratford Chocolate Trail to try some treats. Stratford is also the former home of Justin Bieber and fans can download a map of the singer’s childhood haunts.

Ontario: Ottawa to Perth

Quebec: Montreal to Centre-du-Québec

Quebec: Quebec City to La Mauricie National Park

The natural beauty of La Mauricie is enough of an experience on its own, but the park is also near the city of Shawinigan, which sits right on the Saint-Maurice River. It’s also not far from the luxurious Baluchon eco-tourism resort, a secluded property that features a fine dining restaurant, outdoor activities and a Nordic spa.

New Brunswick: St. John to the Bay of Fundy

Prince Edward Island: Central Coastal Drive

The Green Gables Shore features PEI’s most famed sites, particularly those connected to L.M. Montgomery’s beloved Anne of Green Gables novels. The route goes through the Cavendish area, which is home to the Green Gables house as well as some key museums. The Red Sands Shore is a bit quieter and more relaxed, full of small coastal villages and cozy coves. 

Explore PEI with our full guide to the region

Nova Scotia: Cabot Trail

Nova Scotia: Halifax to Lunenburg

The east coast of Nova Scotia is home to some of the most postcard-perfect towns in all of Canada, including the famously charming fishing village of Lunenburg. Founded in 1753, the town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site thanks to its planned layout and traditional wooden architecture. Today Lunenburg is popular with tourists because of its history and delicious seaside seafood restaurants. 

The drive from Nova Scotia’s capital city of Halifax is about 62 miles (99km) and can be completed in about an hour and 15 minutes, but it’s worth making a detour to Peggy’s Cove in St. Margarets Bay. Peggy’s Point Lighthouse is probably the most photographed lighthouse in all of Canada, while the rest of the site offers a glimpse of life in a traditional Maritime fishing village.

What to see and do in Nova Scotia

Newfoundland and Labrador: Viking Trail

If Gros Morne isn’t enough, the Viking Trail continues northwards to L’anse aux Meadows National Historic Site, located at the tip of Great Northern Peninsula. The archeological site is the only confirmed Norse encampment in all of North America, and its artifacts are estimated to be over 1,000 years old. Today the site features a recreated base camp and costumed interpreters as well as original artifacts.

Newfoundland: Irish Loop

As they travel towards the bottom of the peninsula, visitors will find Ferryland, one of the oldest European settlements in North America, where archeologists have found remnants of homes built in the 17th century. Fans of more recent history will also want to stop at the Cape Race lighthouse, which received the distress call from the doomed Titanic in 1912 . 

Now discover Canada's most beautiful small towns and villages

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10 Things Southerners Always Bring On A Road Trip

If we’re getting in the car, you better believe these things are coming with us.

A great Southern road trip is as much about the journey as it is reaching the final destination. Whether it’s a jaunt to the beach to kick off summer or an annual trip to Grandma’s house for the holidays, most Southern families can’t make it a year without packing up the car for a long drive . There’s something nostalgic and even a little sweet about spending uninterrupted time in a small space with the ones you love—even when they're driving you up the wall. When Southerners go for a ride—be it for three hours or eight—there are a few things you can bet they’ll be toting along. Keep reading to find out 10 things Southerners always bring on a road trip.

Homemade Snacks

Like popcorn at a movie, everyone knows the most important part of a road trip is the snacks. And while Southerners love a bag of salt and vinegar chips or granola bar as much as the next person, they know the only proper way to snack on a road trip is with homemade goodies. Search any Southern car, and gallon bags of homemade snack mix , cheese straws , fire crackers , and puppy chow are most likely on board, too.

A Flashlight

Southerners are nothing if not prepared, so they wouldn’t dare embark on a drive of any significant length without having a few “just in case” items. Number one on most Southerners' list: a flashlight in case of car trouble. Bonus: It comes in extra handy on a camping trip or a for late-night crab hunting on a beach vacation.

Peanuts and Coca-Cola

This classic combo may seem like a strange pairing, but there’s something about pouring a packet of salted nuts into an ice-cold bottle of Coca-Cola that makes perfect sense on a road trip. It’s salty, sweet, and as easy to slurp down while keeping one hand on the wheel.

A Paper Map

Yes, most of the time we use navigation apps or in-car GPS system to do the directing, but Southerners just can’t seem to quit paper maps . Cell phone towers don’t reach everywhere just yet, so a trusty Rand McNally is always good to have as back up. There’s something to be said for finding your path the old-fashioned way.

A Sack Lunch

Fast food stops are for the faint of heart. Real road warriors know that a sack lunch is the way to go. We guarantee mom’s pimiento cheese or chicken salad sandwich tastes better than anything you can find under the Golden Arches. Bonus points if your lunch is packed safe and sound in an Igloo cooler.

A Good Book

When the conversation stalls and all the kids have dozed off, it’s the perfect time to do a little reading. Paperback or e-reader, a good book to get lost in is essential road trip packing.    

Jimmy Buffet’s Complete Disc Set

If you’re on a Southern road trip, the soundtrack has to be Jimmy. A playlist queued up with favorites from “Changes in Latitudes, Changes in Attitudes”; “Son of a Sailor”; and “Songs You Know By Heart” is not only a must for Parrot Heads, but a favorite for all. Though this larger-than-life Southern icon passed away earlier this year , his spirit will live on forever via our road trip playlists.

A Cozy Blanket

This one’s a little self-explanatory, but no less important. Southerners are all about comfort on a long car ride, so blankets, pillows, pajama pants, and sleeping accessories of all shapes and sizes are always along for the ride.  

An Extra Dose of Patience

Even when a chorus of “Are we there yets?” resounds from the third row, well-seasoned road trippers maintain a sense of calm. These days—and this drive—won’t last forever, so it’s best to enjoy the road you're on.

A Sense of Adventure

The best part of a road trip can be all the surprising stops along the way. Whether it’s a pop-up produce stand, a gas station for a quick boiled peanut break, or a quirky roadside attraction , Southerners know that sometimes unexpected pitstops can lead to the best memories and be well worth the delayed ETA.  

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Spring In Ontario | 16 Activities to Have a Blooming Time

Spring in Ontario brings the beginning of nature’s wake from its hibernation and becomes alive with activity, much different from the snow-capped fun of  Ontario winter activities . With the busy bees and brooks babbling surrounded by bouquets of bolstering buds, the spring season in Canada is a fantastic festival of natural wonders. 

From the fun-filled festivals to the humble splendours of a weekend away in the wild, an Ontario spring brings the goods to create remarkable memories. 

Wondering how to discover the splendid pearls of springtime fun in the vast sea of spring activities in Ontario? We’ll unearth some of the top excursions in this Canadian season of joy to ensure you have an incredible getaway.

Table of Contents

When Does Spring in Ontario Start?

With plenty of spring showers and growing greenery to look forward to, this season of new beginnings starts around late March and till late June. 

The weather in Ontario can be pretty fickle, which can fluctuate between mild and cold weather throughout the season. The silver lining is that there are plenty of events to get lost in during the season, which will prompt you out of your cozy bed on rainy days to explore.

Note:  Take a look at the weather in Ontario, Canada, beforehand, as the  ever-changing spring weather pattern  might put a damper on your plans if you don’t plan accordingly.

Things to Do in Spring – Ontario Sights & Attractions

Get ready to jump into the springtime stream of possibilities, as Ontario’s best activities and attractions will have you dive into this season swimmingly. Take a look at what you should add to your itinerary to make the most out of this joyful season:

1. Enjoy the Easter Celebration 

Easter in Ontario is a festive holiday with themed events, from egg hunts to endless parades of egg-laden events. Whether hunting for a family-fun adventure or just looking for a hopping time, you’re in for a treat.

Make your way to Milton in Southern Ontario to participate in Canada’s largest Easter egg hunt, which has a 23-acre hunting ground to search for these colourful treasures. By teaming up with family or friends, you’ll ensure you’ll have an eggcellent time at this spring event.

After filling your baskets, you can head to various food vendors on the property to celebrate your victories or losses in style.

If you want to get into the Easter spirit, you can travel to Toronto to watch the Toronto Beaches Lions Easter Parade in full throttle.  After a slight absence , this spectacular float-filled event is back and better than ever, with a wide variety of floats to enjoy.

Known as the biggest Easter parade in North America, you’ll be able to delve into the festive spirit along Queen Street. A pinnacle of the community since 1967, you’ll have a blast waving at the various organizations and floats as they walk and ride by.

2. Go to the Various Flower Festivals in Ontario

While embarking on some spring activities in Ontario, one thing is sure — this province knows how to celebrate the unfurling wonders of flowers in the season. 

With a stunning selection of flower festivals to choose from, budding botanists and flower enthusiasts will experience the true meaning of flora frenzy. Here are a few blossoming events to dive into during spring:

• Canadian Tulip Festival  – An opulent occasion in the Commissioners Park in Ottawa, this event has been a staple of celebrating Canada’s historic liberation from the Netherlands. As the days get brighter and warmer in May, the Canadian Tulip Festival blooms in full glory, with hundreds of thousands of tulips providing a picturesque backdrop of vibrant colours and inviting aromas. With tulip night shows and fireworks displays, you’re in for an illuminating experience. Painters and photographers flock to the area to immortalize the beauty of this annual marvel.
• Peony Festival  – An ode to this pillowy plant, this occurrence in mid-June takes place in the Oshawa Valley Botanical Gardens.
• Warkworth Lilac Festival  – A celebration with a charming edge, this festival has a stunning array of lilacs to discover and explore for May. This is an excellent opportunity to craft a handmade bouquet for Mother’s Day to ensure you have the perfect gift.

3. Take a Trip to Flowerpot Island

What better way to commemorate the spring flower theme than by travelling to the wondrous nature setting of Flowerpot Island? This idyllic space forms part of the Fathom Five National Marine Park and has abundant hiking trails and camping facilities, perfect for a spring adventure.

The island is named after the unique rock formations peppered on the island that resemble flower pots. You can book a tour boat to this space to access the island when weather conditions are safe. 

This island is a must for nature lovers, from snorkelling through the aquamarine waters to watching the sky become bespeckled with stars when you camp. It is also the perfect activity to add to your  weekend getaway  plans. 

4. Dust Off The Canoe/Kayak Snd Head To Algonquin + Arrowhead

Algonquin Provincial Park is a stunning wilderness destination during spring, where you can canoe and kayak on the numerous lakes, hike the rocky ridges and forested trails, and listen to the captivating call of the loon.

The diversity of wildlife, including moose, beavers, bears, wolves, 30 varieties of reptiles, amphibians, and many birds, will blow you away. The Mizzy Lake Trail offers an incredibly excellent opportunity for wildlife viewing.

If you plan to hang out in Huntsville , visit Arrowhead Provincial Park, where you’ll find the highly photographed Big Bend Lookout.

5. Victoria Day & Cottage Country

The Victoria Day weekend marks the unofficial beginning of summer, largely because we’ve grown tired of waiting –– but it’s technically still spring!

Some of our favourite places to visit if you’re in Southern Ontario are Muskoka , Prince Edward County , Niagara and everywhere in between. You’re guaranteed a wonderful time with plenty of hiking trails, canoeing, kayaking, fishing, boating, or doing nothing.

6. Enjoy a Sugar Rush at a Maple Fest

As Mid-February and March bring the sweet sensation of the  sugaring season , the sap of maple trees begins to flow once more to produce some sweet treats. As the maple season only lasts a few months, this is a fantastic opportunity to peer into the beautiful world of the maple syrup-making process.

Make your way to the Proulx Farm in Cumberland to dive into the beautiful sugary activities of the Maple Fest. From horse-drawn carriage adventures to the array of maple-infused creations (such as maple syrup pie and taffy).

Tip:  Looking to take a slice of the fun home? Be sure to visit the gift shop to purchase the ultimate candied souvenir to commemorate your syrupy adventure.

7. Take Instagram Worthy Pictures Of Cherry Blossoms

As the days get warmer, the first surefire sign of spring is when the cherry blossoms appear all over Ontario, bringing some colour back from the grey winter. Although High Park in Toronto is widely known and the most popular, there are plenty of other places to enjoy their beauty.

Depending on the weather, it typically takes place in mid to late April, but it only lasts about three weeks after the first blossoms.

8. Tee Up On An Ontario Golf Course

Ontario has many excellent golf courses. After a long winter, Spring brings warmer temperatures and longer days. The best time to play golf is during these warm months. If you want to enjoy some fresh air while playing golf, there are several opportunities in Ontario. 

• Glen Abbey Golf Club – Located in Oakville and designed by legendary gol­fer Jack Nicklaus, the Glen Abbey Golf Course has hosted the RBC Cana­dian Open, a PGA Tournament, and Canada’s National Open Championships 28 times. The property is also the home to the Academies, the headquarters of GolfCanada, the Canadian Golf Museum, and the TaylorMadePerformanceLab.
• Forest City National Golf Course – Forest City National offers 18 holes of golf, an extensive driving range, and putting greens for you and your family to enjoy.
• Royal Ottawa Golf Club – The Royal Ottawa is one of the oldest golf clubs outside Britain, founded in the spring of 1891. The first nine-holer was built on 50 acres of land donated to the club by Charles Maguire, a real estate developer, on the banks of Lake Ontario, just west of the former Rideau Rifle Range.

9. Pick Your Own Greenery at a Flower Farm

With flowers crammed in every nook and cranny in Ontario during spring, you can bring the season of thriving flora home with you after a flower-picking excursion. This magical province has an abundance of farms to choose from to obtain the bouquet of your dreams. Here are a few to explore to step up your flower-arranging game:

• Thames River Melons – If you love   picking your own apples  or   picking your own pumpkins , then Thames River Melons is the place for you! Visiting Thames River Farm is an excellent way to experience the unique charm of Woodstock . Here, you can pick your delicious fruits and vegetables with various options.
• Windecker Woods Flower Farm  – With a kaleidoscope of colourful flowers, you can snip and clip your way to the springtime flower bunch of your dreams.
• Garden Party Flower Farm  – A stunning 2-acre farm in St. Agatha, this picking adventure is the perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in nature (and take a piece home with you!).
• Makkink’s Flower Farm  – A picturesque space embellished with farm events throughout the year, this flower-picking experience is a must. You can expect to harvest some peonies and dahlias in spring.

10. Try to Find and Capture Some Fireflies

While they might only be humming around in late June (as spring is nearing its end), this glowing encounter is a sparkling spectacle worth searching for. These bright bugs usually ignite in brilliant bunches in Southern Ontario, making it the ultimate opportunity to embark on a camping expedition with a shining twist.

You can try your luck at Algonquin Provincial Park, embellished with beautiful natural scenery like forests and lakes. If you didn’t find fireflies on your camping trip, you could enjoy abundant adrenaline-fuelled activities on the premises. You’re in for an adventure of a lifetime, from canoeing to various backpacking trails.

11. Early Spring Bird Watching

Head to Ontario’s Southwestern parks this spring, get your binoculars out and be on the lookout for raptors, swans, hummingbirds, majestic birds of prey, and many songbirds.

There’s no better time than now to join birders alike at Point Pelee National Park in early May to take part in the Festival of Birds. As if the 390+ species of birds weren’t enough, you may also have the opportunity to hike wildflower trails, cycle the Centennial Trail, and spot Canada’s largest butterfly- the Giant Swallowtail, known for its residence in Pelee.

12. Taste Test Ontario Wine

Many great wines are made in Ontario, and we’re very thankful for them!

Ontario has thousands of vineyards spread across thousands of acres, making this province the largest producer of wine in Canada. Niagara,  Prince Edward County  and Essex-Peele-Island County are well-known classics. Still, Norfolk County,  Lennox & Addington County  (The County’s Southern part is already part of Prince Edward County’s Wine Region), Georgian Bay, and others produce some fantastic reds & whites. 

13. Or Taste Test Ontario Beer

Ontario has no shortage of great breweries; we’re also very thankful for them. These days every city and town has a brewery making delicious craft beers. You’ll have to wait till Fall for Kitchener-Waterloo Oktoberfest, the best Beer Party in the province! However, we’ve stumbled upon several faves while road-tripping, and we tend to consider spring an excuse to explore more! 

• MacKinnon Brothers Brewing Company –  MacKinnon Brothers are located on a 200-year-old family farm, in  Bath, Ontario  and through the generations, it thrived as a farm. The brother decided to add a farm-based brewery by renovating the old barns and planting hops and malting barley in the surrounding fields. 
• Elora Brewing Company –  The Elora Brewing Company is an award-winning craft brewery, pub, bottle shop, and music venue brewing hundreds of beers, making it the city’s top late-night hot spot. With the gorgeous Elora Gorge in their backyard, popping in for lunch or dinner with a delicious beverage is a must.
• Baked By Bees –  One place you don’t want to miss is Baked By Bees out in  Burlington . Here you’re going to get to sample some delicious mead-fermented beverages. 
• Kingston Brewing Company –  The building is an 1800s-era brick and stone, built initially as a telegraph office. You’ll find an extensive collection of beer memorabili­ties that will keep your eyes busy for hours and inspire lots of conversation. Kingston Brewing Co. is Ontario’s oldest brewpub, established in 1986, and offers beers, ciders, and sodas made on the premises. It’s a must on your next  trip out east to Kingston .

14. Grab The Freshest Produce At An Ontario Farmers Market

The best way to learn about a county or region in Ontario or around the world, for that matter, is to visit a local Farmers Market. Here you will find produce, products and even services unique to a particular part of Ontario. Enjoying the freshest fruits, veggies, meats and fish or top-quality handmade goods is a great way to support the local economy.

One of the most impressive Farmer’s Markets we’ve visited during our travels is  St. Jacob’s Farmers’ Market  in the Waterloo Region.

15. Spring Into Romance At 1000 Islands

The Thousand Islands Region, located between Toronto and Ottawa , and 50 minutes from Kingston , provides the perfect getaway for anyone looking to experience the beauty of spring.

Explore the archipelago by boat and travel through the narrow channels of the St Lawrence River to discover the hidden gems of the over 1800 islands. A day cruise lets you enjoy the sights of secluded beaches, quaint family cottages, and luxurious homes on Millionaires’ Row.

If romance is in the air, stop at Boldt Castle to learn the heartbreaking story of George C. Boldt and his wife. After she died before the castle was finalized, the Thousand Islands Bridge Authority completed the task and opened the grounds for exploration.

Important note: Be sure to pack your passport as the castle is on the American side of St. Lawrence.

16. Get The Vehicle Ready For An Ontario Road Trip

We’d be remiss if we didn’t suggest getting an early start on some fantastic Ontario road trips .

No matter the time of year, road trips are a great idea, but they tend to slow down during winter. Though the weather isn’t always ideal, you won’t have as many crowds as in the summer. Start with some day trips , then move to weekend getaways and multi-day road trips .

Please Note: Ensure that attractions and facilities are open since they are more likely to be available during summer.

Be sure to join our newsletter for bi-weekly destination inspiration. We got you covered!

Top Tips for an Opulent Ontario Spring Experience

From ruining your shoes in mud puddles to getting caught in a sudden flash rain session, the unpredictable weather an Ontario spring is known for can be tricky to navigate. Take a look at some top tips to keep your wits about you during this season:

• Always take a light jacket on your day trips  – While the weather report might call for a rain-free day, you should always carry something warm and waterproof just in case.
• Keep an eye on road conditions  – In some parts of Ontario, snow and icy conditions persist. If you’re on the road, drive carefully to avoid accidents.
• Be aware of ticks in long grassed areas  – While strolling along a meadow in spring is a romantic idea, you’ll need to check your body for ticks afterwards to ensure you didn’t capture an unwanted visitor.
• Check to see what produce is in season –  With spring comes an abundance of in-season Ontario fruit and vegetables. After the cold winter months, you can add some colour to your salad, from greenhouse strawberries to red onions. 
• Invest in a good pair of walking shoes –  Blisters and frosty toes are so last season. As spring calls for frolicking around in nature’s finest settings, this is the perfect time to purchase a good pair of  water-resistant walking shoes  to take on these trails comfortably. 

Springtime in Canada’s Ontario

While it might be a rainy season, you’ll have a few silver linings in the form of blissful and adrenaline-fuelled adventures. From enjoying the sensory pleasures of flower picking to swaying your hips to the beat at Easter parades, you’ll feel springtime bliss in your body. 

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