Last Updated on September 28, 2023
Want to escape the city? Here are 12 exciting short trips from Toronto that you can take at any time of year!
When I was growing up, Ontario’s slogan was “yours to discover.” I’ve always thought this was such a great slogan because there truly is so much to see in this province. And it’s all discoverable by taking a classic road trip.
Head out on a short trip from Toronto to embrace “Muskoka time” in cottage country, or to dine in Niagara-on-the-Lake’s cute restaurants. If you want to enjoy Ontario’s great outdoors, road trip to Algonquin Provincial Park!
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- How to Go On Short Trips From Toronto
- Short Trips From Toronto: Here are 12 You Should Do!
- 1. Go wine touring in Prince Edward County.
- 2. Stand at the southern tip of Canada in Point Pelee National Park.
- 3. Visit the quaint town of Elora.
- 4. Discover Georgian Bay at Bruce Peninsula National Park.
- 5. Enjoy art, history, and nature in Thunder Bay.
- 6. Hike The Crack in Killarney Provincial Park.
- 7. Visit Creemore, the village with a big heart.
- 8. Take in nature in Algonquin Provincial Park.
- 9. Relax and dine in Niagara-on-the-Lake.
- 10. Go camping and kayaking at Rockwood Conservation Area.
- 11. Experience the historic town of Almonte.
- 12. Embrace “Muskoka time” in cottage country.
How to Go On Short Trips From Toronto
Want to go on short trips from Toronto, but don’t have a car? There’s a few options!
Car-sharing and car rentals
Renting a car is the simplest way to go on short trips from Toronto. Discover Cars compares the prices for a vehicle from a variety of suppliers to ensure you get the cheapest rate, and you can reserve your car rental in advance. Reserve a car rental here!
If you live in Toronto, you can use a car sharing service instead of renting a car. There are a couple that operate in Toronto, but I use Communauto. Membership is free, and it allows you to use an app to reserve vehicles that are typically available within walking distance.
Public transit
You’d be surprised how many places you can go using Toronto’s public transit system! The TTC combined with GO Transit connects you to many of the towns outside of the city.
Parkbus
Parkbus is a service that connects city dwellers with nature through accessible transportation options. They operate bus services to several National and Provincial Parks from major cities across Canada. While it’s possible to book this service for multi-day trips, I find that it’s especially awesome for when you’d like to go on a daytrip. You can check out Parkbus, here!
Short Trips From Toronto: Here are 12 You Should Do!
1. Go wine touring in Prince Edward County.
Unwind in Prince Edward County, a scenic region on Lake Ontario known for its wineries, cideries, and farm-to-table cuisine. The gastronomic area is a 2 to 3.5 hour drive from Toronto (depending on traffic), making it a great road trip destination for a weekend getaway in Ontario.
From Toronto, take HWY 401 east until you reach exit 522. This will take you south to the relaxed area with quaint towns, pretty farms and stunning beaches.
One of the best ways to experience the countryside is to rent a bike and winery hop. Rent bikes in Wellington and bike to wineries such as Sandbanks Estate, Karlos Estate, Hinterland and Closson Chase.
If you’re not a wine drinker, check out The County Cider Company. It has marvellous views of Prince Edward Bay from the hilltop. Enjoy a craft cider tasting, go on an orchard tour or have pizza on their outdoor patio.
Prince Edward county has a mix of quirky places to stay. If you’re looking for a trendy place, try The Drake Motor Inn, a hip retro motel named one of the Best New Affordable Hotels in the World by Conde Nast. For a charming luxurious stay, try Merrill House, a gothic revival mansion beautifully restored with contemporary elements.
Submitted by Cecily from Groovy Mashed Potatoes
2. Stand at the southern tip of Canada in Point Pelee National Park.
Point Pelee National Park is just a 3.5 hour drive south from Toronto. This National Park is known as “the point” because of the way that it stretches out into Lake Erie.
After reaching “the tip” of the park, which is as far out on the peninsula as is possible to go, visitors can say that they have officially stood on the most southern mainland point in Canada. This region of Ontario is so south, it’s actually aligned with the most northern border of California!
At 1,564 hectares Point Pelee is Canada’s smallest national park. Comparatively, Algonquin Park, which is further north in Ontario, is 763,000 hectares! This park may be small, but don’t let its size fool you.
The park’s unique ecology and location makes one of North America’s most renowned spots for birdwatching. In the spring and fall, you can watch bird and butterfly migrations. Throughout summer, come to Point Pelee to go swimming, hiking, kayaking, and more.
Point Pelee is also a designated Dark Sky Preserve, which means that the park is one of the best places to admire the night sky in Canada. During the night, the sky glows from the light of millions of visible stars.
On Dark Sky Nights the park is open until midnight, which allows you to drive in for the evening if you’ve opted to stay in accommodations outside of the park. You can see the dates for designated viewing nights, here. This park is small enough to explore over the course of a weekend, making it perfect for short trips from Toronto.
For accommodations, consider staying in nearby Essex County, which is a short drive away and known for it’s fantastic wineries! Or, book the beautiful Rose Cottage – It’s a beautiful waterfront lakehouse that has modern amenities and treats you to beautiful views of Lake Erie. You can book the Rose Cottage, here.
Submitted by Erin from Pina Travels. Read more about Point Pelee National Park, here!
3. Visit the quaint town of Elora.
If you are looking for the perfect short trips from Toronto, consider a day trip to one of the cutest little villages in Ontario, Elora. Located along the Grand River, it’s a charming day trip destination about 90 minutes from Toronto.
One of the famous Group of Seven painters, A.J. Casson, called Elora Ontario’s Most Beautiful Village.
There are tons of things to do in Elora. If you love the outdoors, there are parks and extreme activities like river tubing and zip-lining while hiking in the beautiful Elora Gorge will make you one with nature.
Another popular attraction is the Elora Gorge, where you can cool off with a refreshing swim during those hot and humid summer days.
In addition to nature, there are tons of authentic family-owned shops, with numerous places to eat and drink, from fine dining and cute cafes to brunch spots and Elora’s very own brewery. Elora also has several art galleries, where you can not only see art but make your own art at one of the many classes.
No need to board a plane! With just a quick drive from Toronto, you’ll find yourself in a quiet and quaint place to relax.
Submitted by Christopher Rudder from Rudderless Travel, Road Trip Ontario & Travel Horror Stories Podcast
4. Discover Georgian Bay at Bruce Peninsula National Park.
Bruce Peninsula National Park is a 3.5 hour drive north from Toronto. With the lush forest and stunning views of Georgian Bay at the edge of cliffs, it’s no surprise why the park is known as one of the most beautiful places in Ontario!
It is worthwhile embarking on a day trip to Bruce Peninsula National Park or book a camping site for a longer stay. Due to its popularity, campsites do sell out ahead of time so it is best to plan your visit far in advance.
Spending a weekend camping is the best way to see the park, especially because you can wake up early and explore the park undisturbed before the flock of day-trip visitors arrive.
While visiting Bruce Peninsula National Park you can hike through the forest, swim, canoe, scuba dive, and so much more. The Grotto is definitely the most popular place to visit in the park, and for a good reason. There, you can swim in the crystal clear waters and admire the unique and natural sea cave.
Head to the nearby town of Tobermory to explore boutique shops and great seafood restaurants. From there, you can take a glass-bottom boat tour. On your tour you’ll see shipwrecks or head to Flowerpot Island for more adventures.
Submitted by Devin from Deventuretime
5. Enjoy art, history, and nature in Thunder Bay.
Looking to have truly epic short trips from Toronto that includes art, history, and one of the best hikes in the province? Head north to Thunder Bay.
This isn’t your traditional Ontario weekend getaway as Thunder Bay is roughly 1400 kilometres north of Toronto, along the Trans Canada Highway. The best way to make Thunder Bay a short trip from Toronto is to fly there. Otherwise, you may need some extra days to drive there and back.
Located on the northern shores of Lake Superior, there is a wealth of things to do in Thunder Bay. For outdoor enthusiasts, there are a bunch of incredible waterfalls like the mighty Kakabeka Falls. Thunder Bay is also known for its hiking trails, like the Top of the Giant Trail in Sleeping Giant Provincial Park.
Thunder Bay is rich with history. To learn more about the area be sure to visit Fort William Historical Park, take one of the city’s four self-guided historic walking tours and don’t forget to stop at the Terry Fox monument.
A few other musts to add to your Thunder Bay itinerary is a visit to an amethyst mine, try one of their famous donuts at the Persian, and check out Ouimet Canyon, also known as the Grand Canyon of the North.
Submitted by Stephanie from The World As I See It
6. Hike The Crack in Killarney Provincial Park.
Killarney Provincial Park is easily one of Ontario’s best provincial parks. Spanning 485 square kilometres, the park is home to turquoise and Gatorade blue lakes, the glistening quartzite peaks of the La Cloche mountain range and a never-ending horizon of windswept pine trees.
The park is located along the northern shores of Georgian Bay and is a 4 hour drive from both Toronto, making it a perfect short trip from Toronto to Georgian Bay.
Once you’re at the park, there is plenty to do. I highly recommend hiking The Crack. This trail offers one of Killarney’s best panoramic views. Ambitious hiker-paddlers can make the trek to Silver Peak, the highest point in the park, which has views of the surrounding lakes and Georgian Bay.
Considering the distance and the abundance of activities, you’ll definitely want to stay for a few nights in Killarney Provincial Park. I recommend camping – George Lake Campground is easily accessible and perfect for car camping.
Alternatively, you can rent a canoe for a few days and paddle to one of the many backcountry camping sites. OSA Lake is a personal favourite and can be visited on a two-night camping trip departing from George Lake Campground.
If camping isn’t your thing, however, you can stay at the Killarney Mountain Lodge, a beautiful hotel right outside the park.
Submitted by Mikaela of Voyageur Tripper
7. Visit Creemore, the village with a big heart.
Only 90 minutes north of Toronto, an ideal short trip is to the charming village of Creemore. Take the scenic backroads where you will be treated to an idyllic countryside drive along the way, which is a highlight in itself.
Through the rolling hills of the incredible Niagara Escarpment, gaze upon the large heritage homes, farms, towering trees, creeks and ponds. This entire area is a huge draw for road cyclists and hiking enthusiasts for the nearby Bruce Trail.
Creemore, first settled in 1842, was named after the Irish Cro Mor, meaning “big heart”. That’s why today, Creemore is often referred to as the village with a big heart.
There is a strong sense of community there, everyone is welcoming and proud to show off their village. It’s a thriving arts and culture hub filled with artists, galleries, and year-long festivals.
Stroll the lovely little shops that line the main street or stop in at one of Creemore’s many eateries. It’s also home to their very own Creemore Springs Brewery. Take a tour and learn about their unique fire-brew process using a copper kettle followed by a sampling on their patio.
Or, join the locals every Saturday morning at the lively Farmer’s Market. Creemore is that quintessential charming small town. It’s no wonder that it is often described as “one of the prettiest towns in Ontario” by Harrowsmith Magazine.
Submitted by Renee of Dream Plan Experience
8. Take in nature in Algonquin Provincial Park.
Algonquin Provincial Park is a lovely place for short trips from Toronto. This beautiful Provincial Park is just a 3-hour drive from Toronto via the ON-400 N and ON-11. Algonquin Park was established in 1893 and therefore is Canada’s oldest provincial park!
If you love water sports, Algonquin has plenty to keep you entertained. Rent a kayak and explore Canisbay Lake, one of Canada’s many beautiful lakes. At Canisbay Lake you can also build sandcastles at the small beach or go for a swim.
Canisbay Campground is located just a minute walk from Canisbay Lake, making it an excellent place to set up your tent or park your RV. The campground has many facilities available and due to all it’s trees, the campsites are shaded – which is especially nice during those hot summer days!
There are plenty of hiking trails, both short and easy as well as more challenging hikes, suitable to any fitness level. If you are visiting during the summer months, be sure to sign up for one of the fun and educational Discovery Programs.
Rangers will share their extensive knowledge about the animals and plants that call Algonquin Provincial Park their home.
Submitted by Lotte from Phenomenal Globe Travel Blog
Read more about Algonquin Provincial Park, here.
9. Relax and dine in Niagara-on-the-Lake.
Niagara-on-the-Lake is a charming historic town that’s just 20 minutes from Niagara Falls and about 90 minutes from Toronto along the QEW. This little town makes for perfect short trips from Toronto!
Niagara-on-the-Lake is on the shores of Lake Ontario and at the mouth of the Niagara River. It’s well known for its abundance of wineries (there are over 30 wineries there alone!), adorable shops, award-winning restaurants, gorgeous scenery and much more.
In Niagara-on-the-Lake you’ll be transported back into the Victorian era by the presence of horse-drawn carriages, tree-lined streets adorned with flower gardens, and stunning architecture.
There are plenty of boutique shops to browse through during your visit. Or, enjoy a quiet walk down at the lake and see some historic sites from the War of 1812, like Fort George, Fort Mississauga, or the Butler’s Barracks.
Be sure to visit Nolaa’s Bakery for some decadence (and everything is keto, so you don’t have to feel so bad!) or Balzac’s Coffee to get your caffeine fix while strolling through town.
There are some incredible restaurants to try like Treadwell Cuisine, a farm-to-table restaurant. And of course, drop by one of Niagara-on-the-Lake’s numerous wineries with fabulous restaurants like Trius, Peller Estates, or Two Sisters Vineyards.
For a real treat, stay at the Prince of Wales hotel and indulge in luxury with High Tea and an afternoon in the spa. While you’ll surely leave Niagara-on-the-Lake with some wine, keep in mind that there is lots to do in this quaint town that doesn’t involve wineries!
Submitted by Sarah from In Search of Sarah
10. Go camping and kayaking at Rockwood Conservation Area.
Rockwood Conservation Area is a Grand River Park in Rockwood, Ontario, and it’s one of the best short trips from Toronto. This conservation is a great destination because it’s an easy 1.5 hour drive from Toronto. Simply take Highway 401 headed west, and at Campbellville exit onto Guelph Line 1 headed north.
If you don’t have your own vehicle, you can book to take the bus to Rockwood for a day trip or for the weekend, using the service Parkbus. If you’re staying overnight, book a site at Rockwood’s campground, or stay nearby in Guelph.
Rockwood has two easy hiking trails. The Pothole Trail and the Cedar Ridge Trail. The trails run along the Eramosa River, and although they aren’t very long or challenging, both trails give you stunning views overlooking the river below.
At one end of the Cedar Ridge Trail, you’ll find one of Rockwood’s interesting attractions, a collection of natural caves! Some of them stretch back quite far, so much so that you’ll need a headlamp or the flashlight to be able to explore them.
Aside from the trails, you can spend an afternoon relaxing on Rockwood’s public beach. The beach has both a sandy area and a grassy area, and the swimming is perfect plenty of shallow water that eventually becomes deeper.
This is also the perfect spot to launch a kayak, canoe, or paddle board. If you don’t have your own, you can rent them hourly from Inside Out Nature Centre.
Submitted by Erin from Pina Travels. Read more about Rockwood Conservation Area, here!
11. Experience the historic town of Almonte.
The historic town of Almonte in the Mississippi Mills region is a fun destination for a weekend getaway or day trip. It’s just a 40 minute drive from Ottawa, or a 4 hour drive from Toronto.
The charming and old-fashioned downtown area features restored historic buildings that have been used as film sets in several TV movies! Notably, Almonte was the home of the founder of basketball, James Naismith, and his contribution is honoured with a statue and a museum.
Visitors can start their day on Mill Street, which is lined with antique stores, bookshops, and independent businesses selling clothing, outdoor equipment, and home decor. There are lots of great things to do in Almonte and a walking path, called the Riverwalk, runs along the water just behind Mill Street and offers great waterfall views.
Visitors who wish to learn more about the historic legacy of the regional wool and textile industry can stop by the Mississippi Valley Textile Museum. Another unique spot to drop by in Almonte is The Dairy Distillery, which manufactures various vodka products and typically offers short tours and tastings.
For accommodation, try the Almonte Riverside Inn, the Menzies Inn Bed & Breakfast or the Almost Home B&B. Otherwise you will need to consider staying in the western suburbs of Ottawa.
Plan your visit on Saturday morning from May to October when The Almonte Farmers Market operates it’s a great place to shop for groceries, baked goods and locally handcrafted items.
Contributed by Claire from Claire Pins Travel
12. Embrace “Muskoka time” in cottage country.
Muskoka is one of the classic short trips from Toronto. It is home to crystal blue lakes, gorgeous views of the Canadian shield, and a variety of local wildlife. Not only is the region wonderful, but the drive in is also incredible.
You’ll love taking the regional highway 12 North from Toronto to drive through farmland and past stables full of horses. It may take 20 extra minutes to arrive, but the journey is well worth it, especially on a warm day with the windows rolled down.
Otherwise, you can take the 400N and highway 11 for a more direct route that will take you through great swaths of Canadian shield as you wind past the smaller lakes in mid-Ontario.
Rent a cabin for the full Muskoka cottage country experience. You’ll want to find one with the classic brightly painted Muskoka chairs on a dock where you can sip your morning coffee while listening for loon calls.
Adventurous travelers can take to the water, trailing behind motorboats on tubes or water skis. If you prefer a slower pace, take a kayak or canoe through the lakes, following the curves of different islands.
Even if you aren’t a water enthusiast, you’ll love visiting Muskoka. The region moves at its own, slower pace. In Ontario, it’s commonly called “Muskoka time.” So take a breath, slow down, and enjoy a slow stroll through the old villages. And, be sure to grab some local pastries from Don’s Bakery.
Submitted by Nina of Nina Out and About
Looking for more Ontario travel inspiration?
- 18 of the Best Ontario Parks to Explore
- Why You Need to Visit an Alpaca Farm in Ontario
- Your Essential Guide to Visiting Point Pelee National Park
- First-Timer’s Guide to Hardy Lake Provincial Park
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Erin has been traveling for over a decade, both solo, and with her partner. She’s now traveled to countries across 6 continents, and has lived in 2 countries abroad. Erin also hosts the travel podcast, Curious Tourism, where she interviews travel industry thought leaders and experts about responsible tourism. Learn more about Erin, and get in touch with her, here.
All of these road trip destinations sound amazing! I really hope that I can visit Canada one day once we can travel freely again 🙂
All the trips sound great and the scenery in the photos is absolutely stunning
I have friends in Ontario, so this gives me so many more options when I next visit! I love the Georgian Bay area, and think it’s funny there is a ‘Tobermory’ there too (I used to live in Scotland, where the original Tobermory is) 🙂
I have a friend in Toronto that I’ve been meaning to visit for over the last decade. :[ These places would be great destinations to tack on–I’d love to check out the national parks!
Those cliffs look amazing! And those cute little towns could be charming European villages! Definitely worth a trip!
What great little trips to take! I think I would love to visit Elora. Usually I would pick more of a nature destination, but after this year I’m just longing to see people and towns! It looks like a great little town!
These are great ideas for road trips from Toronto! I’ve been to a couple of them before but most of them I haven’t managed to visit yet!
Thank you for curating such an excellent collection. Point Pelee National Park would be at the top of my list if I lived in Toronto. I learned something new… Creemore (a brand I’ve seen and tasted) comes from its namesake in Ontario!!