Are you looking to escape the hustle and bustle of Toronto for a day? Explore the beauty and charm of nearby destinations with exciting day trips from Toronto. From picturesque vineyards to historic towns and stunning natural landscapes, there is a plethora of options to choose from. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, a history buff, or a foodie, these day trips offer something for everyone. Join us as we uncover the best day trips from Toronto that will leave you refreshed and inspired.
Niagara Falls
Travel tips
- Distance from Toronto: Approximately 80 miles
- Time to get there: Around 1.5 to 2 hours by car
- How to get there: You can take a bus from Toronto to Niagara Falls with Greyhound or Megabus. The bus stations in Toronto are located at Union Station and Bay Street. If you prefer to travel by train, you can take VIA Rail from Union Station in Toronto to Niagara Falls.
- Click for Google maps directions: Niagara Falls
Exploring Niagara Falls: Things to do
Niagara Falls is a must-see destination for anyone visiting the Toronto area. The sheer power and beauty of the falls are truly awe-inspiring. One of the top activities to do at Niagara Falls is to take a boat tour on the Hornblower Niagara Cruises. This experience allows you to get up close to the falls and feel the mist on your face as you witness the grandeur of nature.
For those looking for a more adrenaline-pumping adventure, you can try the Whirlpool Jet Boat Tours, where you’ll navigate through the swirling waters of the Niagara River. If you prefer a more relaxed experience, you can visit the Niagara Parks Botanical Gardens or take a leisurely stroll along the Niagara Parkway to enjoy the stunning views of the falls.
Don’t miss the opportunity to visit the Skylon Tower for a panoramic view of the falls and surrounding area. You can also explore the charming town of Niagara-on-the-Lake, known for its quaint shops, wineries, and historic sites.
Whether you’re a nature lover, adventure seeker, or simply looking to marvel at one of the world’s natural wonders, Niagara Falls offers something for everyone. Plan your day trip from Toronto to Niagara Falls and create unforgettable memories at this iconic destination.
Prince Edward County
Travel tips
- Distance from Toronto: Approximately 160 miles
- Time to get there: Around 2.5 to 3 hours by car
- How to get there: You can reach Prince Edward County by driving east on Highway 401 from Toronto. Alternatively, you can take a bus from Toronto to Belleville and then transfer to a local bus to reach the county. The closest train station is in Belleville.
- Click for Google maps directions: Prince Edward County
Exploring Prince Edward County: Things to do
Prince Edward County is a charming destination that offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, culinary delights, and cultural experiences. One of the top attractions in the county is the Sandbanks Provincial Park, known for its stunning beaches and sand dunes. Visitors can enjoy swimming, picnicking, and hiking in this picturesque setting.
Wine enthusiasts will appreciate the thriving wine scene in Prince Edward County, with numerous vineyards and wineries to explore. Take a wine tour and sample some of the region’s best vintages while enjoying the scenic countryside views.
For history buffs, a visit to the Macaulay Heritage Park is a must. This historic site features restored 19th-century buildings and offers insight into the county’s past. Don’t miss the opportunity to stroll through the quaint towns and villages, such as Picton and Bloomfield, to discover local shops, galleries, and eateries.
Outdoor enthusiasts can partake in activities like cycling along the Millennium Trail, kayaking on the Bay of Quinte, or birdwatching at the Prince Edward Point National Wildlife Area. The county’s natural beauty and diverse landscapes provide ample opportunities for outdoor adventures.
Whether you’re looking for a relaxing getaway or an active exploration, Prince Edward County has something for everyone. With its unique attractions, scenic vistas, and welcoming atmosphere, this destination is truly a hidden gem waiting to be discovered.
Algonquin Provincial Park
Travel tips
- Distance from Toronto: Approximately 180 miles
- Time to get there: Around 3.5 to 4 hours by car
- How to get there: You can take a Greyhound bus from Toronto to Huntsville, then transfer to a Parkbus that goes directly to Algonquin Provincial Park. Alternatively, you can take a Via Rail train to Washago and then a shuttle to the park.
- Click for Google maps directions: Algonquin Provincial Park
Exploring Algonquin Provincial Park: Things to do
Algonquin Provincial Park is a must-see destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike. The park is renowned for its stunning landscapes, diverse wildlife, and plethora of recreational activities. One of the top things to do in Algonquin Provincial Park is hiking along the numerous trails that wind through the lush forests and around the pristine lakes. The park offers trails of varying difficulty levels, making it suitable for both novice and experienced hikers.
For those interested in wildlife viewing, Algonquin Provincial Park is home to a wide array of animals, including moose, black bears, and beavers. Birdwatchers will also delight in the opportunity to spot various bird species in their natural habitat. Canoeing and kayaking are popular activities in the park, with many lakes and rivers to explore.
Fishing enthusiasts will appreciate the abundance of fish species in the park’s waters, making it an ideal spot for a relaxing day of fishing. Camping is another popular way to experience the beauty of Algonquin Provincial Park, with several campgrounds offering both tent and RV camping options.
Overall, Algonquin Provincial Park provides a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, allowing visitors to reconnect with nature and enjoy the great outdoors in a serene and picturesque setting.
Stratford
Travel tips
- Distance from Toronto: Approximately 90 miles
- Time to get there: Around 2 hours by car
- How to get there: You can take the VIA Rail train from Toronto Union Station to Stratford Station. Alternatively, you can also take the Greyhound bus from Toronto Coach Terminal to Stratford Bus Terminal.
- Click for Google maps directions: Stratford
Exploring Stratford: Things to do
Stratford, known for its world-renowned theater scene, is a must-see destination for culture enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. The city offers a unique blend of arts, history, and outdoor activities that make it a perfect day trip from Toronto.
Start your day by exploring the charming streets of downtown Stratford, lined with boutique shops, art galleries, and cozy cafes. Don’t miss a visit to the Stratford Festival, where you can catch a live performance of a classic Shakespearean play or a contemporary production.
For nature lovers, a stroll along the Avon River is a must-do activity. Enjoy the scenic views of the river and the lush greenery that surrounds it. You can also rent a kayak or paddleboard to explore the river at your own pace.
History buffs will appreciate a visit to the Stratford Perth Museum, where you can learn about the rich heritage of the region through interactive exhibits and guided tours. The museum showcases the history of the city, from its early settlers to its thriving arts community.
End your day with a delicious meal at one of the many farm-to-table restaurants in Stratford. The city is known for its culinary scene, with a focus on fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Indulge in a gourmet meal paired with a glass of Ontario wine for the perfect ending to your day trip.
Whether you’re interested in theater, nature, history, or food, Stratford has something to offer every type of traveler. Plan your day trip from Toronto to this vibrant city and experience the best of what Ontario has to offer.
Blue Mountain
Travel tips
- Distance from Toronto: 90 miles
- Time to get there: Approximately 2 hours
- How to get there: You can take a Greyhound bus from Toronto Coach Terminal to Collingwood, then transfer to a local bus to Blue Mountain. Alternatively, you can take a GO train from Union Station to Allandale Waterfront Station in Barrie, then take a bus to Blue Mountain.
- Click for Google maps directions: Blue Mountain
Exploring Blue Mountain: Things to do
Blue Mountain is a popular day trip destination from Toronto, offering a perfect blend of outdoor adventures and scenic beauty. One of the top attractions is the Blue Mountain Resort, known for its skiing and snowboarding opportunities in the winter months. The resort also offers hiking and mountain biking trails during the warmer seasons, making it a year-round destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
For those seeking a more leisurely experience, the Blue Mountain Village is a charming pedestrian village filled with shops, restaurants, and cafes. Visitors can stroll through the cobblestone streets, enjoy live music performances, and indulge in delicious local cuisine.
Nature lovers will appreciate the stunning views from the top of Blue Mountain, accessible by gondola or hiking trails. The panoramic vistas of Georgian Bay and the surrounding countryside are truly breathtaking, making it a must-see spot for photography enthusiasts.
In addition to outdoor activities, Blue Mountain also hosts events and festivals throughout the year, showcasing local artists, musicians, and culinary delights. Whether you’re looking for adventure or relaxation, Blue Mountain offers something for everyone, making it a memorable day trip from Toronto.
Thousand Islands
Travel tips
- Distance from Toronto: Approximately 160 miles
- Time to get there: Around 2.5 to 3 hours by car
- How to get there: You can drive from Toronto to Thousand Islands or take a bus from Toronto Coach Terminal to Kingston, then transfer to a local bus to reach Thousand Islands. Alternatively, you can take a train from Toronto Union Station to Kingston and then proceed to Thousand Islands.
- Click for Google maps directions: Thousand Islands
Exploring Thousand Islands: Things to do
Thousand Islands is a must-see destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike. This picturesque region, situated along the border of the United States and Canada, offers a unique blend of natural beauty and recreational activities that make it a perfect getaway from the hustle and bustle of city life.
One of the top things to do in Thousand Islands is to take a boat tour along the St. Lawrence River, where you can marvel at the stunning landscapes dotted with lush green islands and historic lighthouses. The region is famous for its scenic cruises that provide a close-up view of the charming cottages, grand estates, and diverse wildlife that call the islands home.
For those seeking adventure, Thousand Islands offers a range of outdoor activities such as kayaking, fishing, and hiking. Explore the numerous trails that wind through the islands, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding waterways and forests. You can also visit Boldt Castle, a magnificent historic landmark located on Heart Island, and learn about the fascinating history of the region.
In addition to its natural beauty, Thousand Islands is also known for its charming waterfront villages, where you can stroll along the quaint streets, browse local shops, and savor delicious seafood at waterfront restaurants. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing retreat or an action-packed adventure, Thousand Islands has something for everyone to enjoy.
Bruce Peninsula
Travel tips
- Distance from Toronto: Approximately 155 miles
- Time to get there: Around 3 hours by car
- How to get there: You can drive to Bruce Peninsula from Toronto via Highway 401 and Highway 6. Alternatively, you can take a bus from Toronto to Owen Sound and then transfer to a local bus to reach Bruce Peninsula. There is no direct train service to Bruce Peninsula.
- Click for Google maps directions: Bruce Peninsula
Exploring Bruce Peninsula: Things to do
Nestled along the shores of Lake Huron and Georgian Bay, Bruce Peninsula is a natural wonder that offers a unique blend of outdoor adventures and stunning landscapes. This must-see destination is renowned for its crystal-clear waters, rugged cliffs, and diverse wildlife.
One of the top attractions in Bruce Peninsula is the Bruce Peninsula National Park, home to the famous Grotto. The Grotto is a mesmerizing sea cave with turquoise waters that are perfect for swimming and snorkeling. Hiking enthusiasts will also enjoy the park’s numerous trails, including the Bruce Trail which offers breathtaking views of the surrounding area.
For those interested in wildlife, Bruce Peninsula is a paradise for birdwatching and spotting rare species such as the Massasauga rattlesnake. Kayaking and canoeing are popular activities along the peninsula’s pristine coastline, allowing visitors to explore hidden coves and secluded beaches.
Don’t miss the opportunity to visit Flowerpot Island, known for its iconic sea stacks shaped like flowerpots. The island is accessible by boat and offers scenic hiking trails and opportunities for picnicking by the water.
Whether you’re seeking adventure or simply looking to unwind in nature, Bruce Peninsula has something for everyone. Plan your trip to this natural gem and experience the beauty of Ontario’s great outdoors.
