33 Best Day Trips From Toronto by a Local Expert
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Are you looking for day trips from Toronto for something to do or somewhere to go on your day off? Or are you only visiting Toronto, but have an extra day to explore outside the city?
I’ve got the perfect list of places if you want to to spice up your life and discover the magic on Ontario. By immersing yourself in nature, going on an adventure, rejuvenating in a spa, or discovering a new town, you will return refreshed!
Having lived in southern Ontario for most of my life, I’ve curated my favourite parks, natural areas, beaches, attractions, and gorgeous small towns for you to explore.
I believe mixing in some variety and adventure into our lives keeps us happy and looking forward to experiencing something new. So, please enjoy discovering these awesome Ontario locations and remember that Ontario has so much more for you to experience.
Planning Your Trip? Use My Favourite Resources Below!
- Accommodations – I always use and recommend Booking.com
- Car Rental – I recommend DiscoverCars
- eSIM – I recommend Airalo
- Booking a Tour – I recommend GetYourGuide
- Custom Itinerary – I will create a personalized itinerary for your dream trip!
Breathtaking Nature Escapes
Let’s start with reconnecting to Mother Nature. It is scientifically proven and generally well known that spending time in nature reduces stress, and improves health and general wellbeing. For me, connecting to these beautiful places has brought me so much peace and joy, I really hope you love them too!
Remember to care for our shared environment and don’t leave any garbage behind or hurt any plants or animals so that we can all keep enjoying these natural places.
1. Niagara Falls
Niagara Falls is one of the world’s most iconic landmarks, and it never fails to impress me. As a former tour guide in Niagara Falls, I’ve experienced it all—from the awe of the Horseshoe Falls mist hitting your face to the unforgettable views from the Skylon Tower or Niagara Helicopter tour.
This natural wonder consists of three waterfalls: the Horseshoe Falls, the American Falls, and Bridal Veil Falls. Together, they make up the Niagara Falls and send an astonishing 168,000 cubic metres of water over the edge every minute.
If you’re only doing a 1 day trip from Toronto, check out my detailed itinerary so you don’t miss unique experiences like Journey Behind the Falls or the Whirlpool Aero Car. For even more activity ideas, check out my detailed guide to the Top 14 Unique Things to Do in Niagara Falls or the Best Places to Eat in Niagara Falls if you need a scrumptious lunch.
Drive Time from Toronto: 1 hour 30 minutes (but expect up to 2–3 hours during peak traffic).
2. Bruce Peninsula National Park & Tobermory
Located on the northern edge of the Bruce Peninsula, this national park is a nature lover’s paradise. Its towering cliffs, turquoise Georgian Bay waters, and the famous Grotto sea cave are simply breathtaking.
The park offers a mix of hiking trails, including sections of the world-renowned Bruce Trail (which actually terminates in Niagara Falls, yes, it’s super long). Camping options range from yurts to backcountry sites. It’s also home to diverse wildlife and vibrant plant life, including beautiful orchids.
For those seeking a deeper connection to the land, the Visitor Centre provides insights into the cultural significance of the area as part of the traditional territory of the Saugeen Ojibway Nation.
Pro Tip
Reservations for parking, camping, and yurts open on February 3, 2025. Be sure to book well in advance if you’re planning a visit between May and October, as spots fill up quickly.
Drive Time from Toronto: 4 hours.
3. Algonquin Provincial Park
Known simply as “the Park” by locals, Algonquin Provincial Park has a special place in my heart. Established in 1893 as Ontario’s first provincial park, it’s a haven for nature enthusiasts with its dark lakes, vast forests, and diverse wildlife.
The park is a dream destination for hiking enthusiasts, with 14 trails ranging from easy walks to multi-day camping adventures.
Canoeing and kayaking are also hugely popular here, with over 2,000 interconnected canoe routes and ample backcountry camping opportunities. For those who prefer staying closer to amenities, there are traditional campsites, cozy yurts, and even lodges.
My dad and I once canoed the remote Tim River route, which was great for us to be away from the busier Highway 60 routes. While I love the solitude of the less-travelled areas, first-timers might find comfort in sticking to the accessible and well-travelled trails and canoe routes off Highway 60.
Be sure to check out the Visitor Centre after your hike. It has stunning views and educational exhibits if you’d like to deepen your understanding of the park and it’s creatures.
You will need to purchase a Daily Vehicle Permit online to stop anywhere in the park, and because cellphone signal is sparse at best in Algonquin, I suggest buying it ahead of time.
Algonquin Park is the ultimate place to disconnect from modern city living, but it does take a while to get there so it might be better if you can make a 2 day trip out of it.
Drive Time from Toronto: 3 hours 30 minutes.
4. Rattlesnake Point Conservation Area, Milton
Rattlesnake Point Conservation Area, located on the Niagara Escarpment in Milton, Ontario, is a natural gem that offers a mix of stunning vistas and exciting outdoor activities. This beautiful spot is home to ancient cedars clinging to the cliffs, breathtaking views, and an array of wildlife.
Visitors can enjoy several hiking trails, including the Nassagaweya Canyon Trail and the Vista Adventure Trail, or check out the view from Buffalo Craig Lookout. For those looking to unwind, the park provides picnic facilities, pavilions, and even outdoor yoga classes.
Rock climbers will appreciate the park’s limestone cliffs, which feature top-rope anchors and sport climbing routes. Please always follow proper climbing etiquette and safety procedures.
Entry costs $12 + tax for adults at the gate, or you can make a reservation to be sure you will get in on busy days and get an entrance fee discount. The park is open from 9 A.M. to 7 P.M. everyday making it a perfect Toronto day trip destination any day of the week.
Drive Time from Toronto: 1 hour.
5. Devil’s Punchbowl Conservation Area, Stoney Creek
Devil’s Punchbowl Conservation Area is a striking natural feature of the Niagara Escarpment. This area is renowned for its dramatic geological formations, including the Upper and Lower Punchbowl Falls and a vertical display of Ordovician and Silurian rock layers.
From the top of the Escarpment you get views of the gorge, the falls, and the surrounding Hamilton cityscape, making it a must-visit for nature enthusiasts and photographers alike.
The area offers access to trails like the Bruce Trail and the Dofasco 2000 Trail, making it a hotspot for hiking and birdwatching, especially during the spring raptor migration. Picnic facilities and pavilions make it an excellent spot for family outings.
History Note
This site holds a personal connection for me, as one of my distant ancestors, Adam Green, was the original owner and settler of the land here. Historical records show he built a water-powered mill at this very location. His sons later fought in the War of 1812 and played key roles in the Battle of Stoney Creek, which is another historical highlight of the area.
There is an $8 vehicle charge for parking and the park is open from sunrise to sunset year-round.
Drive Time from Toronto: 1 hour.
6. Spencer Gorge Conservation Area, Dundas
This Conservation Area showcases the stunning natural beauty of the Niagara Escarpment. Visitors on day trips from Toronto can marvel at two spectacular waterfalls—Webster Falls and Tew Falls—and enjoy panoramic views from Dundas Peak all in one day.
The area is a favourite for outdoor enthusiasts, offering picturesque hiking trails along the Bruce Trail and incredible vantage points to capture the surrounding landscape.
Birdwatchers will find the forested depths of the gorge particularly appealing, while families can take advantage of picnic facilities to relax. This is also a great spot to enjoy fall colours in late October and even into November.
To manage crowds in the summer peak season, reservations are required for popular spots like Dundas Peak and Tew Falls, and parking is limited, so plan ahead to secure your spot.
Drive Time from Toronto: 1 hour.
7. Point Pelee National Park, Leamington
Point Pelee National Park is a literal point of land jutting into Lake Erie and is located close to Leamington. Established in 1918, the park boasts unique marsh and woodland habitats and is a designated Ramsar Wetland.
It is particularly famous for birdwatching, especially during spring and fall migrations, and for witnessing the incredible Monarch butterfly migration in the fall.
Visitors can explore the Marsh Boardwalk, hike the Botham Tree Trail, or cycle along scenic routes. Canoeing and kayaking through the park’s marshlands are unique ways to experience its ecosystems.
For overnight stays, Camp Henry provides cozy oTENTik A-frame cabins, combining camping with modern comforts. The Visitor Centre offers insights into the park’s history and natural features, and a convenient shuttle service takes visitors to The Tip—the southernmost point of mainland Canada.
The daily entry fees for adults is about $9 in the summer and $7 in the winter, and less for seniors, families and groups, but children are free. It is a bit of a long drive for day trips from Toronto, but if you want to get up early for a great nature adventure, it’s worth it.
Drive Time from Toronto: 3 hours 30 minutes.
8. Ganaraska Forest
Ganaraska Forest, located just over an hour from Toronto, is southern Ontario’s largest contiguous forest. It connects parts of Northumberland County, Peterborough County, the City of Kawartha Lakes, and the Durham Region. With its diverse landscapes and hundreds of kilometres of trails, it offers something for every outdoor enthusiast.
Popular activities include hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing, making it a year-round destination.
The Ganaraska Forest Centre, nestled in the heart of the forest, provides helpful amenities such as public washrooms, showers, and educational programs. To access the forest, visitors need either a day pass or a multi-day pass. Want inspiration for day trips from Toronto to escape the city and immerse themselves in nature (and not near Hamilton)- look no further than Ganaraska Forest.
Drive Time from Toronto: 1 hour 15 minutes.
9. Ferris Provincial Park
Ferris Provincial Park is not too far from Peterborough, and is a tranquil retreat offering 198 hectares of natural beauty. The park features over 10 kilometres of fairly flat trails that meander through forested areas and alongside the picturesque Trent River.
The park’s crown jewel is the pedestrian suspension bridge spanning the Trent River Gorge, and an outlook to view Ranney Falls. The fall colours are beautiful here, and Drumlin Trail is particularly stunning in spring, when wildflowers bloom.
Ferris also offers camping facilities, making it an ideal spot for a weekend getaway. Whether you’re hiking, picnicking, or simply soaking in the views, Ferris Provincial Park is a peaceful destination worth the drive.
Drive Time from Toronto: 2 hours 15 minutes.
Adventure and Relaxation
Looking for something more exciting? Or more relaxing? How about both! Here are a couple great day trip from Toronto destinations that can combine outdoor adventures and unique, rejuvenating spa experiences.
10. Blue Mountain Ski Resort, Spas, and Collingwood Caves
Collingwood, nestled in the Blue Mountains region, is a year-round playground for outdoor enthusiasts, with its most popular activities being skiing and cave exploration.
During the winter, the Blue Mountain Resort attracts skiers and snowboarders with its 43 runs, 360 acres of snowmaking, and 30 lit night trails. The resort caters to all skill levels, making it ideal for both beginners and seasoned skiers.
The resort also hosts two gorgeous spas:
1. Iwa Spa offers a holistic wellness experience with a variety of spa treatments and packages. The standout feature is the warm volcanic rock studio (ganban-yoku), where guests can enjoy a unique yoga practice or relaxation session. Personalized touches, like choosing your music and the spa’s welcoming staff, make Iwa Spa a haven for self-care.
2. Scandinave Spa offers its signature Thermal Journey, including hot baths, cold plunges, waterfalls, saunas, and relaxation areas. Massage treatments include access to these facilities, and the spa also features a Forest Bathing Trail, a boutique, and a bistro. Reservations are strongly recommended, but walk-ins may be available. Open daily from 9 A.M. to 9 P.M., it’s perfect for year-round relaxation with stunning views of the Blue Mountain and Niagara Escarpment.
Just down the road from the Blue Mountain Ski Resort is the Scenic Caves Nature Adventures. They have a network of trails through natural caves and caverns. Visitors can explore the longest suspension bridge in Southern Ontario, take in breathtaking views of Georgian Bay, and learn about the area’s designation as a UNESCO biosphere reserve.
The park is open daily year-round. Reservations are recommended, particularly during peak times and during the summer season.
Drive Time from Toronto: 2 hours.
11. Horseshoe Valley Resort and Vettä Nordic Spa
Horseshoe Valley Resort, located near Barrie, Ontario, is a four-season destination offering a range of outdoor adventures. Its famous winter activities include 29 ski runs, 30 km of groomed Nordic ski trails, a dynamic terrain park, thrilling snow tubing runs, and options like fat biking and snowshoeing. In the summer, the resort transforms into Ontario’s premier lift-operated Bike Park, alongside a revitalized golf course and other outdoor attractions.
For relaxation, Vettä Nordic Spa offers an authentic Finnish spa experience within Horseshoe Valley, just up the road from the Resort.
They recommend doing a cycle between hot, cold, and relaxing to optimize your health and wellness. I loved how there were lots of options, so each cycle could be different if you wanted it to be. It was like a choose-your-own-adventure between all the hot tubs, saunas, steam rooms, hot stone beds, cold plunges, cold bucket dumps, and relaxing by one of the many fires, in a hammock, or in a lounge.
You can book a massage here too, or enjoy a healthy lunch in the restaurant or the more affordable café/bistro. Being a fairly new build, the entire space felt thoughtfully designed and wasn’t overcrowded, thanks to their staggered entry system. Trust me, it’s worth booking in advance to secure your spot for a truly rejuvenating escape for your Toronto day trip!
Drive Time from Toronto: 1 hour 30 minutes.
Charming Towns: Culture, Food, and History
Ontario has a lot of amazing and unique small towns, and southern Ontario is full of them. Here are some of my favourites that you can explore with a relatively short drive from Toronto.
12. Niagara-on-the-Lake
Often called the prettiest small town in Ontario, Niagara-on-the-Lake is brimming with history, culture, and charm. Known for its vibrant arts scene, the town is home to the renowned Shaw Festival Theatre and the historic Old Town, which boasts boutique shops, horse-drawn carriages, and stunning 19th-century architecture.
The surrounding countryside is dotted with vineyards, making it a paradise for wine enthusiasts. Visitors can enjoy tastings and tours at award-winning wineries, while the scenic vistas of the region provide a tranquil retreat.
I love to visit often to uncover more of its history or try something new, because there are a lot of things to do in Niagara-on-the-Lake in summer and winter.
Drive Time from Toronto: 1 hour 30 minutes.
13. Fort Erie
Fort Erie, located near the U.S. border, offers a mix of history, recreation, and scenic beauty.
Old Fort Erie is a highlight for history buffs (like me!), providing a glimpse into the War of 1812 and the history of Canada. They have guided tours and reenactment events in the summer, and conclude the season with the spooky Ghost Tours around Halloween, which I loved!
The Fort Erie Race Track can add some excitement to your day trip from Toronto with live horse racing, including the Prince of Wales Stakes, part of Canada’s Triple Crown. I saw Wonder Gadot win in 2018 which was very exciting!
The town also offers serene spots like Windmill Point Park for picnicking and fishing, as well as the Fort Erie Historical Museum. The International Peace Bridge connects Fort Erie to Buffalo, NY, giving you striking views of the Niagara River and Lake Erie.
Drive Time from Toronto: 1 hour 40 minutes.
14. Elora and Fergus
These two towns are close together and blend natural beauty and cultural heritage.
Elora is famous for the Elora Gorge, where visitors can hike, tube, and enjoy spectacular views of the Grand River. The Elora Mill Inn & Spa adds a touch of luxury to the town’s appeal.
Fergus, just a short drive away, features attractions like Templin Gardens and the annual Fergus Scottish Festival & Highland Games. I’ve attended the Scottish Festival twice and absolutely love the unique sports and the heritage behind the Highland Games. Watching someone toss a caber (a large tree trunk) is always impressive!
Both towns are home to delightful shops, restaurants, and an active arts community, making them perfect for a relaxing day trip from Toronto.
Drive Time from Toronto: 1 hour 30 minutes.
15. Stratford
Stratford is home to the world-famous Stratford Festival, where Shakespearean plays and modern classics come to life. I have made regular visits to Stratford over many years, always to catch this year’s Shakespeare play and maybe an extra one too! Tartuffe in particular was hilarious; I’ve never laughed so hard in a theatre.
Visitors can explore the historic town, stroll through the Shakespearean Gardens, and enjoy the scenic Avon River. The town’s charm and the beautiful riverside park, where swans are released in the summer, are so beautiful!
If you want to get some local art, be sure to check out Art In The Park by the river on Saturdays from May into Sept from 10am to 5pm.
Drive Time from Toronto: 1 hour 30 minutes.
16. Paris and Brantford
Located just an hour from Toronto, these cute towns offer a blend of history, culture, and outdoor activities.
Paris is celebrated for its charming cobblestone buildings, historic Penman’s Dam, and scenic walks along the Grand River. Visitors can explore boutique shops, savour delicious dining options, and soak up the small-town charm.
In Brantford, history buffs will appreciate the Bell Homestead National Historic Site, where Alexander Graham Bell invented the telephone. The Mohawk Chapel, Ontario’s oldest surviving church, offers a fascinating glimpse into local heritage. And don’t forget the Twin Valley Zoo or the Glenhyrst Art Gallery.
Paris and Brantford offer a surprisingly diverse list of things to see and do for a short day trip from Toronto.
Drive Time from Toronto: 1 hour.
17. Picton, Prince Edward County
Located in Prince Edward County, Picton is known for its rich history and vibrant arts scene. Visitors can wander the historic downtown, filled with boutique shops, cafés, and the Naval Marine Archives.
Nearby, natural attractions include Sandbanks Provincial Park, as discussed later in this post, and Lake on the Mountain Provincial Park, which is open for day use and has some stunning viewpoints.
Drive Time from Toronto: 2 hours 30 minutes.
Beaches and Lakes: Relax by the Water
Want to relax on some sand under the sun? Here are the best beaches within reach of day trips from Toronto.
18. Sandbanks Provincial Park
Sandbanks Provincial Park, located on the shores of Lake Ontario in Prince Edward County, is famous for its stunning sand dunes and some of Canada’s best beaches.
The park offers clear waters for swimming, scenic hiking trails such as the Sandbanks Dunes Trail, and ample opportunities for camping. It’s a fantastic spot for both relaxation and outdoor adventure.
The park is open from April 25 to October 27, 2025. Reservations are highly recommended during the busy summer months, as the park often reaches capacity on weekends so PLEASE PLAN AHEAD. Day-use permits can be reserved up to five days in advance, and camping reservations can be made online or through the call centre.
Amenities like comfort stations, laundry facilities, and a camp store make visits comfortable and convenient.
Whether you’re planning a day trip to lounge on the beach or an extended camping adventure, Sandbanks Provincial Park is a must-visit destination for nature lovers.
Drive Time from Toronto: 2 hours 30 minutes.
19. Wasaga Beach
Wasaga Beach Provincial Park, located on Georgian Bay, is home to the world’s longest freshwater beach, stretching 14 kilometres and accessible from eight beach areas. This iconic Ontario destination offers plenty of summer fun, including swimming, sunbathing, beach volleyball, and picnicking.
The park is open from April 8, 2024, to October 14, 2024, and again from December 13, 2024, to March 16, 2025, for winter activities like cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. Reservations for daily vehicle permits can be made up to five days in advance, which is recommended for weekends and holidays when the park is busiest.
Facilities include hiking trails, picnic areas, restrooms, and a visitor centre.
Drive Time from Toronto: 1 hour 45 minutes.
20. Cobourg Beach
Cobourg Beach, located along Lake Ontario in Cobourg, Ontario, is a family-friendly destination with soft sands and calm waters.
The beach is open daily from 7:00 AM to 11:00 PM, with amenities like a splash pad, picnic areas, and public washrooms at the Victoria Park Canteen, which operates from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM during the warmer months.
While reservations aren’t required for beach access, arriving early is a smart choice, especially on weekends, as the beach can get crowded. Visitors are reminded to follow safety guidelines and town bylaws, such as no loudspeakers or enclosed tents, to maintain the beach’s peaceful atmosphere.
Drive Time from Toronto: 1 hour 30 minutes.
21. The Toronto Islands
Toronto Island Park, a serene escape just minutes from the city’s bustling core, offer a mix of natural beauty and recreational activities. The many islands are connected by pedestrian-friendly trails and are accessible via ferry from the Jack Layton Ferry Terminal.
Visitors can enjoy biking, picnicking, birdwatching, and exploring historic sites like the Gibraltar Point Lighthouse. The park is open year-round, but ferry schedules vary by season, so it’s best to check in advance. Tickets can be purchased online to avoid long wait times during peak periods.
With its stunning views of Toronto’s skyline and tranquil green spaces, Toronto Island Park is ideal for a quick getaway from city life.
Drive Time from Toronto: Less than 1 hour (including ferry).
22. Muskoka
Muskoka, known as Ontario’s “Cottage Country,” is a picturesque region filled with sparkling lakes, dense forests, and charming small towns. This year-round destination offers a range of activities, from boating and fishing in the summer to snowshoeing and skiing in the winter.
This is where I grew up and the area is famous for its resorts, cozy lodges, and wellness retreats. Visitors can also explore local shops, farmers’ markets, and cultural events that highlight Muskoka’s vibrant community spirit.
Whether you’re seeking a peaceful retreat in nature or an action-packed outdoor adventure in summer or winter, Muskoka provides a quintessential Canadian experience.
Drive Time from Toronto: 2–3 hours.
Unique Experiences
Here are some specific attractions to check out that could take up a large portion of your day trip, and so should be the main focus for the day.
23. St. Jacobs Farmers’ Market, Waterloo
St. Jacobs Farmers’ Market is Canada’s largest year-round indoor/outdoor farmers’ market, attracting over a million visitors annually. Established in 1975, the market features more than 300 vendors offering fresh produce, artisanal goods, and international cuisine.
Open Thursdays from 8:00 AM to 3:00 PM and Saturdays from 7:00 AM to 3:30 PM, it’s a bustling hub of activity.
The surrounding Market District adds to the appeal, with the St. Jacobs Outlet Mall, Market Road Antiques, and the Waterloo Central Railway offering additional attractions. Whether you’re shopping for fresh ingredients or hunting for unique finds, this market is a fantastic destination for a day trip.
Drive Time from Toronto: 1 hour 15 minutes.
24. Dundurn Castle, Hamilton
Dundurn Castle is a museum showcasing the neoclassical mansion and a beautifully preserved slice of mid-19th-century life. Built in 1835 by Sir Allan Napier MacNab, the 40-room castle boasts advanced features for its time, such as gas lighting and running water.
When I went, the tour guide was super welcoming and engaging, teaching us what life in the 1850s was like. The surrounding gardens and the Historic Kitchen Garden showcase heirloom fruits and vegetables, and how a kitchen would have operated in this era.
On the same grounds is the Hamilton Military Museum, which offers fascinating insights into the War of 1812 and other historical events. I loved Dundurn Castle and it is a must-visit for any history enthusiasts and anyone curious about Ontario’s past.
Drive Time from Toronto: 45 minutes to 1 hour.
25. Battlefield House Museum & Park, Stoney Creek
Battlefield House Museum & Park in Stoney Creek, Ontario, is a must-visit for history enthusiasts and families alike. This National Historic Site commemorates the Battle of Stoney Creek, a pivotal event in the War of 1812.
On June 6, 1813, the Gage family homestead became the centre of a fierce battle that marked a turning point in the war. Today, the 100-foot-high Battlefield Monument stands as a powerful symbol of peace and a tribute to the soldiers who lost their lives during the conflict.
The site includes the beautifully restored Battlefield House, offering a glimpse into life in the early 19th century, as well as the Grandview (Nash-Jackson House) and expansive parklands under the Niagara Escarpment. Scenic trails connected to the Bruce Trail provide opportunities for peaceful walks and contemplation.
Each year, the park hosts one of Ontario’s largest and longest-running battle re-enactments, complete with period demonstrations, games, food, and fireworks.
Personal Note on the Re-enactment
I have ancestral ties to this area, and some of my ancestors fought the Americans at the Battle of Stoney Creek. While researching my family history, I learned about the annual re-enactments and decided to not only attend and bring my family, but to also volunteer! Yes, I got dressed up in period costume, and no, I’m not going to show you a picture! 😂
Drive Time from Toronto: 1 hour.
26. Royal Botanical Gardens, Burlington
The Royal Botanical Gardens (RBG) in Burlington, Ontario, is a breathtaking natural escape covering over 2,400 acres of gardens and nature sanctuary.
Established in 1941, this National Historic Site is a haven for nature lovers, families, and anyone seeking peace and beauty. RBG is divided into distinct areas, including the Rock Garden, Hendrie Park, and the Arboretum, each offering unique seasonal displays.
Open year-round, RBG hosts a variety of events such as Music in the Garden, Enchanted, and After Dark, which blend live music, art, and evening entertainment. The Blooms Season showcases vibrant flowers, while the Tea House serves delightful afternoon teas amidst stunning floral surroundings.
Seasonal hours and events may vary, so it’s best to check their schedule ahead of time.
Drive Time from Toronto: 1 hour.
27. Canada’s Wonderland, Vaughan
Located just north of Toronto, Canada’s Wonderland is the country’s premier amusement park. Since its opening in 1981, the park has over 200 attractions, including 18 roller coasters, like the Leviathan, Behemoth, and the world-record-breaking dive coaster, Yukon Striker.
I always favoured the 20-acre water park, Splash Works, which adds even more fun with its slides and wave pools.
Canada’s Wonderland also offers live entertainment, seasonal events such as Halloween Haunt and WinterFest, and diverse food options. The park operates primarily from late spring to early fall, with special winter events extending the fun year-round.
Drive Time from Toronto: 30 minutes.
28. African Lion Safari, Cambridge
African Lion Safari, outside of Cambridge, Ontario, offers a one-of-a-kind wildlife experience just an hour from Toronto.
This family-owned safari park is home to over 1,000 animals representing more than 100 species from around the world. Visitors can drive their own vehicles or take a safari bus to explore seven game reserves, where animals roam freely.
Beyond the safari adventure, the park features attractions like Misumu Bay Wetplay, the “Nature Boy” Scenic Railway, and the “African Queen” Boat Cruise. Kids will love the playground and pets’ corner, while educational presentations provide insight into the animals and their habitats.
The park is open from May to October, with daily operations until mid-September and select dates in the fall. Reservations are highly recommended, especially during peak periods.
Drive Time from Toronto: 1 hour.
29. Indigenous Experience at Chiefswood Park
This park offers an immersive Indigenous cultural experience set against the scenic backdrop of the Grand River. This 20-acre park is part of Six Nations of the Grand River and besides day-use, it features a mix of accommodations, including cabins, camping, and glamping options if you want to stay overnight.
Visitors can participate in guided cultural tours, explore archaeological discoveries, and visit the Chiefswood National Historic Site, which honours Haudenosaunee heritage.
Nature enthusiasts will enjoy walking the trails through the Carolinian forest or renting canoes and kayaks for a peaceful paddle on the river.
Chiefswood Park is a serene retreat that combines cultural education with natural beauty, making it a meaningful and memorable destination for a day trip from Toronto.
Drive Time from Toronto: 1 hour 15 minutes.
Hidden Gems (From a Local)
Here are some of my best day trip from Toronto recommendations that no one seems to know about!
30. Lincoln County, Wines and Breweries
If you love wine and beer, Lincoln County is a dream. Lots of wineries like Kacaba Vineyards, Creekside Estate Winery, and Vineland Estates Winery offer unique experiences, from scenic vineyard views to exceptional farm-to-table dining.
Beer lovers won’t be left out either. I highly recommend Bench Brewing Company for its great food and innovative brews like the Lincoln Lager—a refreshing German Helles-style beer with notes of citrus and sweet malt.
This area, attached to the Niagara Wine Region, is less popular than Niagara-on-the-Lake, but to me, just as beautiful.
Drive Time from Toronto: 1 hour 15 minutes.
31. Ball’s Falls Conservation Area, Lincoln County
Ball’s Falls Conservation Area in Lincoln blends natural beauty and rich history. The stunning waterfalls and preserved 19th-century buildings make it a lovely spot for a day trip.
The Ball’s Falls Centre for Conservation adds to the experience with interactive exhibits about the area’s history and ecology. Guided historical tours are available from Victoria Day to Labour Day, but the park is open year-round for self-guided exploration.
If you’re visiting in the fall, don’t miss the Thanksgiving Festival! I went in 2024 and loved browsing the artisan vendors, chatting with historical interpreters in period costume, and taking a free tour of the historic house. It’s such a unique way to experience this charming spot and a great idea for day trips out of Toronto.
Drive Time from Toronto: 1 hour 10 minutes.
32. Short Hills Provincial Park
This underrated, day-use-only park is a peaceful escape where nature truly shines. Spanning 660 hectares, it’s perfect for hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding. Trails like the Black Walnut Trail Loop and Swayze Falls Loop offer beautiful views of rolling hills water falls, and forests.
I do have to mention that some trails are closed for conservation efforts, and while that can be frustrating, it’s important to respect these closures. They’re helping to protect the deer, birds, and other wildlife that call this park home. I’m also glad some areas of the park are also under rehabilitation, reverting farmer’s fields into native habitats once again.
Plan your day trip from Toronto ahead of time by researching which trails are open and finding the best parking options to access them.
Drive Time from Toronto: 1 hour 30 minutes.
33. Peterborough & the Canadian Canoe Museum
Peterborough is a vibrant town that combines culture, history, and outdoor adventure. The Canadian Canoe Museum is a highlight for me.
It’s home to the world’s largest collection of canoes and kayaks, and its interactive exhibits make learning about Canada’s paddling heritage fascinating. The museum also offers hands-on workshops and canoe trips, which are a must if you love being on the water.
The town itself is charming, with the iconic Peterborough Lift Lock, trails and parks, and a bustling downtown filled with shops and restaurants. If you visit in the summer, check out Peterborough Musicfest. Free concerts by Little Lake add such a fun and lively vibe to this picturesque spot.
Drive Time from Toronto: 1 hour 30 minutes.
FAQs
Now that you know where to go, you’re probably wondering how to get there. Here are my answers to common questions traveling Ontario and taking day trips from Toronto.
What are the best transportation options for day trips from Toronto?
- Driving a car gives you the most freedom and flexibility. If you need to rent a car in Toronto to make your day trip dream a reality, I highly recommend using DiscoverCars to find the best deals from reputable car rental companies.
- You can reach many of the places on this list through public transit, like GoTrain and ParkBus and using town or city busses.
Where do I find the best hotel deals if I want to extend my day trip from Toronto?
I always use Booking.com to find my accommodations, and sometimes a car rental or airplane ticket too actually. But I LOVE their Genius points program that earns me great discounts and upgrades after booking multiple stays with them. I’ve booked over 40 stays through Booking.com and have never had any issues. My favourite feature is that I can sort properties by price to find the best value for my money.
What are the closest day trips from Toronto?
Toronto Island Park is the closest, but anything around Hamilton or Stoney Creek is about an hour away (depending on traffic).
Are there budget-friendly day trips from Toronto?
Yes! Many options like the beaches, hiking trails, and small-town explorations are free or low-cost.
How do I spend a relaxing day trip from Toronto?
Visit Niagara-on-the-Lake to enjoy beautiful wineries or head to Blue Mountain for their award-winning spas.
Wrap Up
Ontario is full of incredible destinations, and these day trips from Toronto are just the beginning. Whether you’re sipping wine in Lincoln County, hiking the serene trails of Algonquin Park, exploring history at Dundurn Castle, or simply soaking up the charm of Peterborough, there’s something for everyone.
Planning a day trip (or a full vacation) can feel overwhelming, but I’m here to help! If you’d like more personalized recommendations or assistance crafting a customized itinerary, check out my Travel Planning Services. Let’s make your Ontario adventure unforgettable!
