Ontario Day Trips

DAY TRIPS

Ontario Day Trips | From Toronto & More

If you’ve never travelled to Ontario, Canada, you may not know about all the fantastic places to visit outside Toronto. The Ontario region isn’t just Canada’s economic hub, and it’s also known for its wealth of natural diversity. 

Taking one of many Ontario day trips will expose you to breathtaking natural beauty, ranging from dense forests and vast provincial parks to sparkling lakes and waterfalls.

Latest Ontario Day Trips

Things To Do In Buffalo
Day Trips | New York | Weekend Getaways

Explore Buffalo: Fun Things To Do In Buffalo For An Unforgettable Experience 

Buffalo is the type of place where you can walk into a local bar along Elmwood in Elmwood Village or Allen St. in Allentown, and the regulars will start giving you a list of their favourite places, restaurants, and things to do. The conversation may include feelings about the Buffalo Bills, Buffalo Bisons or the…

things to do in port hope | Port Hope Town Hall
Day Trips | Northumberland

Things To Do In Port Hope | A Day Trip To The Cozy Side Of Southern Ontario

Are you looking for things to do in Port Hope? From some pretty cool architecture, landscapes, and activities paired with a slow-living feel. Port Hope is an urban southern Ontario setting dipped in character and charm. While Port Hope can be considered a small settlement, this enchanting location packs a punch by offering a variety of…

road trip with dogs
Day Trips | Resources | Road Trips | Weekend Getaways

5 Tips For A Successful Road Trip With Dogs Or Cats

Heading out on a road trip to check out the beautiful destinations here in Ontario is an exciting experience, but that becomes even more memorable when you can share that journey with your best furry friend.   Over the last 20+ years, we have had the opportunity to take countless road trips and adventures with our…

electric vehicles ontario
Day Trips | Resources

Epic Day Trips With Electric Vehicles Ontario | Canada by EV

Seeing the electric vehicles Ontario has on the road nowadays is increasingly common. After all, it’s a zero-emissions method to get around the country, and who doesn’t want that positive tick on their moral compass?   In 2022, 5.5% of all new vehicle sales in Ontario were fully electric, and the cumulative number continues to rise….

road trips from toronto
Road Trips | Day Trips | Weekend Getaways

Best Road Trips From Toronto | Weekend Getaways & Scenic Drives

Looking to get out of the city for a day or two? Here are some of the best road trips from Toronto, perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer vacation. Last Updated: June 27, 2023 While Road Trip Ontario is based in Toronto, we’d be lying if we said we didn’t love that bright…

road trip from toronto
Day Trips | Durham Region | Outdoors Ontario

Fun Things To Do In Durham Region | Activities & Cool Places to Explore

There’s an endless list of fun things to do in Durham Region. Explore the region during its fall season, bursting in reds, oranges and golden hues or get your winter warmers on and head out to discover Durham’s snowy period –– if you dare. Located east of bustling Toronto lies the Durham Region, the economic centre…

Things To Do In Milton
Day Trips | Halton Region

Fun Things To Do In Milton, Ontario | A Day Trip For Nature Lovers

Are you looking for some fun things to do in Milton, Ontario? Well, look no further! There are plenty of activities to choose from. However, Milton isn’t typically the first destination that comes to mind when planning a day trip from Toronto, but it is worth exploring, especially if you love nature! Whether you want to go…

Things To Do In Kleinburg
Day Trips | York Region

Things To Do In Kleinburg, Ontario, In A Day

Looking for things to do in Kleinburg? Kleinburg, Ontario, is a small community in the northwestern part of the Greater Toronto Area.  The town has become known for its picturesque rural setting and quaint village atmosphere. The downtown area features several boutique shops, restaurants, and cafes, while the surrounding countryside offers plenty of opportunities for…

Things to Do in Guelph
Day Trips | Wellington County

28 Fun Things To Do In Guelph | Top Sights And Activities For A Day Trip

Noted as one of Canada’s first planned towns, Guelph is a charming city with surprises. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a longtime resident, there’s always something new to discover in Guelph, which is probably why you’re here. To help make the most of your time in the city, here’s a list of eight fun…

Things To Do In Unionville
Day Trips | York Region

16 Things To Do In Unionville, ON: A Complete Day Trip Travel Guide

Unionville is a charming historic village in Markham, York Region, and what was once a hidden gem is now a popular destination for a quick day trip. Markham’s former village was established in the 1790s and is now a thriving community honouring its history while embracing modernity. Unionville is about 40 kilometres (25 miles) northeast…

uxbridge ontario
Day Trips | Durham Region

Uxbridge Ontario, Travel Guide | Things To Do & Places To See

Nestled amidst the rolling hills and picturesque countryside of Ontario’s Durham Region and a 20-minute drive from one of our other favourite spots, Port Perry, lies Uxbridge, Ontario. With its rich history, vibrant arts scene, and breathtaking natural beauty, Uxbridge is a hidden gem just waiting to be discovered. Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast, a…

Things to Do in Burlington
Day Trips | Halton Region

16 Fun Things to Do In Burlington Ontario (A Sweet Day Trip from Toronto)

Looking for fun things to do in Burlington Ontario? No worries, we got you covered!We have family in Burlington, which you’d think gives us an advantage from a local perspective, but the truth is, we’d visit our family, then head back to Toronto! It wasn’t until we started exploring Burlington as a local we realized…

How to Day Trip Ontario the Right Way

Of course, you’ve heard of the iconic Niagara Falls, one of the prime attractions in Ontario that attracts tourists in droves year after year. The collection of waterfalls is situated in the city of Niagara Falls, Ontario, and borders the state of New York in the United States. 

This is just one of many prolific tourist destinations that you will fall in love with when you visit the wonderful region of Ontario in Canada. You can also check out the CN Tower, the Royal Ontario Museum, and Horseshoe Falls. There is an abundance of activities and sightseeing options in the region just begging to be explored. 

Ontario is also home to Ottawa, the capital of Canada, where you can see iconic tourist attractions like Parliament Hill, Rideau Canal, and the National Gallery of Canada. But Ottawa isn’t the only city brimming with cool spots and attractions. 

Whether in Hamilton, the Durham Region, Sudbury, or any of Ontario’s small towns, you’re bound to have a blast if you follow our comprehensive itineraries and useful day trip guides.  

If you’re looking for inspiration for day trips in Ontario, you’ve come to the right place. Whether you’re planning a day trip from Toronto or looking for Ontario day trip ideas, we’ve got you covered.

Best Day Trips From Toronto

We’ve got write-ups on the best day trips from Toronto below to help you plan an unforgettable Ontario road trip. Whether you’re exploring in Elora, visiting Southern Ontario, or spending the day in Brantford, there are plenty of Toronto day trips for you to choose from. 

The great part about Ontario is that you don’t have to drive far to see some awe-inspiring scenery and cool local stores, attractions, and landmarks. There are plenty of beautiful places near Toronto in summer, winter, spring, and autumn. 

ontario day trips
Elora, Ontario

Our posts on the best Toronto day trips cover all the intriguing spots you can visit en route to your destination, not to mention how to get there and some tips for planning ahead. There is an abundance of places around Toronto, each more charming than the last.

Ontario Day Trip Ideas For An Epic Road Trip

Click on any one of our posts below to learn about all the fun things to do outside Toronto. We’ve got a diverse round-up of the best attractions in the area and the most interesting day trips for you to embark on. Why not discover some of the most charming Ontarian towns you may not have heard of before? 

No matter where you go in Ontario, you’re bound to find attractions and activities galore to enjoy and indulge in on your trip to this alluring Canadian region.

All Posts

Things To Do In Buffalo
Day Trips | New York | Weekend Getaways

Explore Buffalo: Fun Things To Do In Buffalo For An Unforgettable Experience 

Buffalo is the type of place where you can walk into a local bar along Elmwood in Elmwood Village or Allen St. in Allentown, and the regulars will start giving you a list of their favourite places, restaurants, and things to do. The conversation may include feelings about the Buffalo Bills, Buffalo Bisons or the…

things to do in port hope | Port Hope Town Hall
Day Trips | Northumberland

Things To Do In Port Hope | A Day Trip To The Cozy Side Of Southern Ontario

Are you looking for things to do in Port Hope? From some pretty cool architecture, landscapes, and activities paired with a slow-living feel. Port Hope is an urban southern Ontario setting dipped in character and charm. While Port Hope can be considered a small settlement, this enchanting location packs a punch by offering a variety of…

road trip with dogs
Day Trips | Resources | Road Trips | Weekend Getaways

5 Tips For A Successful Road Trip With Dogs Or Cats

Heading out on a road trip to check out the beautiful destinations here in Ontario is an exciting experience, but that becomes even more memorable when you can share that journey with your best furry friend.   Over the last 20+ years, we have had the opportunity to take countless road trips and adventures with our…

electric vehicles ontario
Day Trips | Resources

Epic Day Trips With Electric Vehicles Ontario | Canada by EV

Seeing the electric vehicles Ontario has on the road nowadays is increasingly common. After all, it’s a zero-emissions method to get around the country, and who doesn’t want that positive tick on their moral compass?   In 2022, 5.5% of all new vehicle sales in Ontario were fully electric, and the cumulative number continues to rise….

road trips from toronto
Road Trips | Day Trips | Weekend Getaways

Best Road Trips From Toronto | Weekend Getaways & Scenic Drives

Looking to get out of the city for a day or two? Here are some of the best road trips from Toronto, perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer vacation. Last Updated: June 27, 2023 While Road Trip Ontario is based in Toronto, we’d be lying if we said we didn’t love that bright…

road trip from toronto
Day Trips | Durham Region | Outdoors Ontario

Fun Things To Do In Durham Region | Activities & Cool Places to Explore

There’s an endless list of fun things to do in Durham Region. Explore the region during its fall season, bursting in reds, oranges and golden hues or get your winter warmers on and head out to discover Durham’s snowy period –– if you dare. Located east of bustling Toronto lies the Durham Region, the economic centre…

Things To Do In Milton
Day Trips | Halton Region

Fun Things To Do In Milton, Ontario | A Day Trip For Nature Lovers

Are you looking for some fun things to do in Milton, Ontario? Well, look no further! There are plenty of activities to choose from. However, Milton isn’t typically the first destination that comes to mind when planning a day trip from Toronto, but it is worth exploring, especially if you love nature! Whether you want to go…

Things To Do In Kleinburg
Day Trips | York Region

Things To Do In Kleinburg, Ontario, In A Day

Looking for things to do in Kleinburg? Kleinburg, Ontario, is a small community in the northwestern part of the Greater Toronto Area.  The town has become known for its picturesque rural setting and quaint village atmosphere. The downtown area features several boutique shops, restaurants, and cafes, while the surrounding countryside offers plenty of opportunities for…

Things to Do in Guelph
Day Trips | Wellington County

28 Fun Things To Do In Guelph | Top Sights And Activities For A Day Trip

Noted as one of Canada’s first planned towns, Guelph is a charming city with surprises. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a longtime resident, there’s always something new to discover in Guelph, which is probably why you’re here. To help make the most of your time in the city, here’s a list of eight fun…

Things To Do In Unionville
Day Trips | York Region

16 Things To Do In Unionville, ON: A Complete Day Trip Travel Guide

Unionville is a charming historic village in Markham, York Region, and what was once a hidden gem is now a popular destination for a quick day trip. Markham’s former village was established in the 1790s and is now a thriving community honouring its history while embracing modernity. Unionville is about 40 kilometres (25 miles) northeast…

uxbridge ontario
Day Trips | Durham Region

Uxbridge Ontario, Travel Guide | Things To Do & Places To See

Nestled amidst the rolling hills and picturesque countryside of Ontario’s Durham Region and a 20-minute drive from one of our other favourite spots, Port Perry, lies Uxbridge, Ontario. With its rich history, vibrant arts scene, and breathtaking natural beauty, Uxbridge is a hidden gem just waiting to be discovered. Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast, a…

Things to Do in Burlington
Day Trips | Halton Region

16 Fun Things to Do In Burlington Ontario (A Sweet Day Trip from Toronto)

Looking for fun things to do in Burlington Ontario? No worries, we got you covered!We have family in Burlington, which you’d think gives us an advantage from a local perspective, but the truth is, we’d visit our family, then head back to Toronto! It wasn’t until we started exploring Burlington as a local we realized…

fun things to do in oakville
Day Trips | Halton Region

What To Do In Oakville This Weekend | The Perfect Day Trip From Toronto

Wondering what to do in Oakville this weekend? Don’t worry we got you covered! The town of Oakville is located in the beautiful natural surrounding of Halton Region and is a whopping 30-minute (30 Kilometre) drive from downtown Toronto. Full disclosure: The 30-minute drive time is largely dependent on there being no other cars on…

places to see in toronto
Day Trips | Weekend Getaways

Places To Visit In Toronto – Top 35+ Toronto Attractions

If you are looking for places to visit in Toronto, we got your back!Toronto is all about art, culture, multicultural experiences, food, green urban spaces, museums, sports, and friendly locals (like us, eh). So what’s not to love? As you know, Road Trip Ontario is based in Toronto and locals (one of us born and…

best road trips from toronto
Day Trips

23 Day Trips from Toronto: Best Places to Visit in Southern Ontario

Toronto, the largest city in Canada, is bustling and full of activities to keep you busy. As a born and bred Torontonian, it can get hectic as much as we love our place as the official/unofficial centre of Canada’s universe. We sometimes must escape from high tourism and construction (our unofficial 5th season). Located in…

things to do in st jacobs
Day Trips | Waterloo Region

10 Fun Things To Do In St Jacobs | Historical Tours, Markets & Hidden Gems

While it is quite small, there is lots to see in St Jacobs Village, Ontario. This quaint village is in the township of Woolwich, just outside the city of Waterloo. You might know other places in the Waterloo region like Cambridge and Kitchener, but those hardly compare to St. Jacobs’ small-town charm. The village is…

things to do in fergus ontario
Day Trips | Wellington County

The Best Things to Do in Fergus Ontario

Fergus is a scenic heritage community that is home to beautiful parks and tons of greenery. The scenic town is brimming with fun and leisurely things to do in Fergus.  Stone buildings, quaint eateries, pretty boutiques, and unique galleries make up the residential community of Fergus. Many people visit the town to attend the Fergus…

places to visit in ontario during winter
Day Trips | Outdoors Ontario | Road Trips | Seasonal | Weekend Getaways | Winter

13 Best Places To Visit In Ontario During Winter

Ontario is a large province with many activities and attractions for all kinds of people. Whether you love spending your time in the confines of a city or being out and about in nature, you won’t go wrong with these places to visit in Ontario during winter. The province turns into a winter wonderland packed…

Things To Do In Elora Ontario On A Day Trip: 34 Attractions, Inns & Restaurants
Day Trips | Wellington County

Things To Do In Elora Ontario On A Day Trip: 34 Attractions, Inns & Restaurants

One of the many small villages in rural Ontario is Elora, located along the gorgeous Grand River in Southern Ontario. It’s a charming destination for a day trip from Toronto. There are so many things to do in Elora Ontario, for every type of traveller. One of the famous Group of Seven painters, A.J. Casson,…

things to do cambridge ontario
Day Trips | Waterloo Region

Fun Things To Do In Cambridge Ontario | 27 Of The Top Activities & Attractions

Searching for the best things to do in Cambridge Ontario? This charming city in Southwestern Ontario is a suitable day trip from Toronto and offers historical sights, outdoor activities, and breathtaking natural spaces.  The city falls within the Municipality of Waterloo and can be divided into three areas: Galt, Hespeler, and Preston. It is located…

things to do in port perry ontario
Day Trips | Durham Region

20 Fun Things To Do In Port Perry, Ontario | An Amazing Toronto Day Trip

Where else can you go from being in downtown Toronto, Canada, amongst the hustle and bustle surrounded by the concrete jungle one minute? Then an hour later, you’re sitting in the middle of a frozen lake with friends, ice fishing, drinking beer and eating apple fritters the size of your head. Port Perry, Ontario, is…

christmas markets in ontario
Day Trips | Festivals | Seasonal | Weekend Getaways | Winter

Christmas Markets In Ontario | 15 Festive Fairs to Visit This Season

‘Tis the season to be jolly and spend your days strolling through the many holiday markets Ontario offers. Whether you’re looking for gifts, festive food, or just a place to soak in all the Christmas spirit, there’s a market waiting for you, and we have the top Christmas markets in Ontario waiting for you to…

winter activities in ontario
Road Trips | Day Trips | Outdoors Ontario | Seasonal | Weekend Getaways | Winter

Winter Activities in Ontario | 15 Fun Things to Do in the Snow

Are you searching for the best winter activities in Ontario? The season can be a beautiful and exciting time in our province. The landscape is covered in snow, and this white wonderland just begs to be explored.  Whether you’re staying at home, visiting the attractions in your own backyard or enjoying one of the many…

things to do in barrie
Day Trips | Road Trips | Weekend Getaways

Things To Do In Barrie, Ontario | Ultimate Travel Guide

Barrie is in an exciting spot. It sits on a snow belt, making it a fantastic ski and snowboarding destination. Snow Valley Ski Resort, Horseshoe Valley, Hockey Valley Resort, Mount St. Louis Moonstone and Blue Mountain, a bit further north. It’s in the same county as Collingwood and Wasaga Beach. This makes Barrie great for…

Haunted Places in Ontario
Road Trips | Day Trips | Fall | Seasonal

Haunted Places in Ontario | Eerie Mansions, Forts & More

One of the best things to do in the fall and Halloween seasons is to visit a few spooky places. Real ghost hauntings are exciting, so seeing the most haunted places in Ontario might be the perfect road trip. While we at Road Trip Ontario are deathly scared of artificial haunted houses, we can appreciate…

pumpkin picking ontario
Day Trips | Fall | Festivals | Outdoors Ontario | Road Trips | Seasonal

Pumpkin Picking Ontario | 16 Best Pumpkin Patches to Visit

The whisper of fallen leaves, the crisp air, and cozy nights in – fall in Ontario is for family, friends, festivities and thankful spirits. Sorry if we went a little wax-poetic on you, but it’s pumpkin picking Ontario time! From delectable pies to spiced lattes (love it or hate it), pumpkins are the symbol and…

apple picking ontario
Day Trips | Fall | Festivals | Outdoors Ontario | Road Trips | Seasonal

Apple Picking Ontario | 25+ Pick-Your-Own Orchards to Visit this Fall

When you hear apple-picking Ontario, who doesn’t get excited? There is something quite magical about strolling through apple orchards in Ontario and selecting your very own fruit to take home with you. Couple that with a full day of farm fun, like corn mazes and wagon rides, and you have the ideal day out with…

things to do in woodstock ontario
Oxford County | Day Trips

Fun Things To Do In Woodstock Ontario | A Day Trip From Toronto or Stratford

Welcome to Oxford County and Woodstock. If you’re thinking of Woodstock, the Woodstock Music and Art Fair held August 15–18, 1969, featured loads of amazing musicians performing for 3 Days of Peace & Music. No, it’s not that Woodstock. The only similarity besides the name is that the Woodstock Music festival took place on a…

bath ontario
Weekend Getaways | Day Trips | Lennox and Addington County | Road Trips

Things to Do In Bath Ontario & Amherst Island | What To Do On A Day Trip From Napanee & Prince Edward County

A true treasure found in Ontario’s Lennox & Addington County, the village of Bath makes for a history-rich day trip from its neighbouring towns, and naturally, we’ve put together a great list of things to do in Bath Ontario. If you search for a town named “Bath” you may also come across the city in…

what to do in stratford ontario
Festivals | Day Trips

What To Do In Stratford Ontario: The World in a Weekend Festival

If you’re looking for what to do in Stratford Ontario, this weekend, you’re in luck! The town is about to come alive with the sound of music — and puppets and theatrical shows. For one weekend in August, locals and visitors are promised a weekend of delight with the World in a Weekend Festival.  Being…

best beaches in ontario
Day Trips | Outdoors Ontario | Seasonal | Summer | Weekend Getaways

Best Beaches in Ontario | 40 Sandy Shores to Visit This Summer

The best beaches in Ontario can be beautiful year-round, but it’s a complete shame not to enjoy them in the summer. With soft, sandy shores and clean, shallow waters, these Ontario beaches are ideal for anyone.  Whether your goal is to get the kids (and maybe pets) out of the house for a day in…

places to go in waterloo
Day Trips | Waterloo Region | Weekend Getaways

Things To Do In Waterloo Ontario | Top Activities & Attractions

Waterloo is a charming Canadian city located in the southern part of Ontario. The city may be small, but that does not reflect what it can offer. From shopping, eating and drinking to outdoor activities and festivals – this little city has a lot going on. Given its tiny size, it is sometimes joined with…

Winter Camping Ontario
Day Trips | Outdoors Ontario | Road Trips | Seasonal | Weekend Getaways | Winter

Winter Camping in Ontario | Best Parks, Tents & More Tips

Ontario’s winters are icy, with cold temperatures and frequent snowfall. There is no escaping it during the colder months, so you might as well embrace it. Rather than hiding inside until the season passes, why not try winter camping in Ontario? The snow might stop the fun for some, but this time of the year…

Christmas Getaways in Ontario
Day Trips | Festivals | Outdoors Ontario | Road Trips | Weekend Getaways

Christmas Getaways in Ontario | 6 Top Spots for a Happy Holiday

The soft glitter of snow, hot chocolate brewing, and a sense of embedded excitement in the air — Planning Christmas getaways in Ontario is a magical time. Peppered with candy canes and winter activities, holiday destinations in this Canadian province are a tough act to beat. Are you looking to amp up your annual Christmas…

Christmas Tree Farm Ontario
Day Trips | Festivals | Road Trips | Seasonal | Winter

Christmas Tree Farm Ontario | 6 Top Jolly Tree Lots to Explore

Christmas time in Ontario is the season of gift-giving, joyful spirits, and magical moments. Whether you prefer to spend this holiday at home or on a winter getaway, you’re in for a dazzling time filled with frosty memories. The traditional green and red decorations and trimmings are a holiday staple, but nothing shines brighter than a…

pickering museum village
Day Trips | Durham Region

Pickering Museum Village, Ontario | Visitor’s Guide

The Pickering Museum Village sits comfortably on the banks of Duffins Creek and is the largest living history pioneer village in Durham Region. It comprises 19 heritage buildings dating back from 1810 to 1920.  Among these historic buildings is a chapel, inn, blacksmith, and a store. On-site you’ll also find beautiful heritage gardens, orchards, two…

andrews scenic acres
Day Trips | Halton Region | Outdoors Ontario

Andrews Scenic Acres Farm in Milton, Ontario | Visitor’s Guide For A Day Trip

Have you been to visit Andrews Scenic Acres Farm in Milton? If not, consider this your sign to head there as soon as you are able. What began as a dream in 1980 has become the Andrews family’s pride and joy.  The farm was meant to be a pick-your-own berry farm but has become so…


Land Acknowledgement

While Road Trip Ontario will take us through numerous traditional territories throughout the province, we are based in Toronto.

As such we acknowledge that we are on the traditional territory of many nations including the Mississaugas of the Credit, the Anishnabeg, the Chippewa, the Haudenosaunee and the Wendat peoples and is now home to many diverse First Nations, Inuit and Métis peoples. Toronto is covered by Treaty 13 signed with the Mississaugas of the Credit, and the Williams Treaties signed with multiple Mississaugas and Chippewa bands.

Pronunciation

  • Anishnabeg: (ah-nish-naw-bek)
  • Haudenosaunee: (hoodt-en-oh-show-nee)
  • Métis: (may-tee)

African Ancestral Acknowledgement

Road Trip Ontario also acknowledges all Treaty peoples – including those who came here as settlers – as migrants either in this generation or in generations past – and those of us who came here involuntarily, particularly those brought to these lands as a result of the Trans-Atlantic Slave Trade and Slavery. We pay tribute to those ancestors of African origin and descent.

Keep Calm and Road Trip ON