We love telling you how amazing it is to live in Toronto.
But for all the great reasons to embrace life in Canada’s most vibrant metropolis, there’s an equally compelling draw to escape the city every chance you get: amazing road trip opportunities.
Not only are we blessed with a world-class city to call home, we’re also privy to some exceptional territory within just a few hours’ drive when we need a change of scenery.
Here are 8 of our favourite day trips out of Toronto:
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Prince Edward County
When Toronto’s beloved Drake Hotel opened the Drake Devonshire Inn last year, Prince Edward County immediately made its way onto our radar. And that was before we discovered all of the other amazing reasons to make the two-and-a-half-hour trip eastward, like the stunning Sandbanks Provincial Park, unparalleled hiking trails, and local artisanal shopping.
Bruce Peninsula
Go for the crystal-clear turquoise waters, stay for the… crystal-clear turquoise waters. Seriously, look at these waters. If Mediterranean colour palettes aren’t enough of a draw, a Tobermory-bound trip also offers one of the most scenic drivers anywhere in the province. Stopping for pie at one of the many en-route apple orchards is a particular culinary highlight.
Niagara-on-the-Lake
Many Ontario towns are pretty, but none offer the combination of eye candy and things to do of NOTL. The town’s steeped in history, surrounded by some of the country’s best vineyards, and features incredible spas and B&Bs. You can even swing by the casinos at nearby Niagara Falls if that’s your thing. Need more reasons to consider NOTL your next day trip destination? We have you covered.
Scarborough Bluffs
Yup, we’re counting Scarborough as a day trip. Part of the reason is because we think too many downtown dwellers overlook Scarborough as a notable spot to spend a day – but it definitely is. Mostly for its strong culinary draw, but also because the Bluffs are the most underrated glimpse of nature in the entire GTA.
Killbear Provincial Park
Killbear boasts the quintessential Canadian lakescape with plenty of activities to complement the visual feast. Whether you’re into canoeing, kayaking, fishing, camping, 30,000 islands, hiking, biking, sailing, windsurfing, boating, or all of these combined, you’ll find it at Killbear.
Muskoka
It goes without saying that Muskoka – Ontario’s Hamptons – is always a good idea. It’s an even better idea as a mid-week escape, when weekend traffic doesn’t cut your trip in half. Having a friend with a cottage is a major bonus.
Collingwood/Blue Mountains
Blue Mountain Village offers a reason to hit Collingwood year-round, a perfect day trip if a drive further north to the Bruce Peninsula seems a too little ambitious. Mountain views and activities – hiking and downhill biking in the summer; skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing in the winter – are complemented by notable shopping, dining, and special events in the village below.
St. Jacob’s
Yes, it’s saturated by tourism, but the town’s unique Mennonite heritage is definitely worth taking in. The farmer’s market and antique shops are especially notable, as is the Millrace Footpath for a leisurely stroll. It’s the perfect mix of overstimulation and rural relaxation.
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