Best Weekend Getaways Ontario Has To Offer | Resorts, Romantic Places & More
Who wouldn’t love to experience the greatest weekend getaways Ontario has to offer? Whether you’re travelling solo, with family, or with a loved one, there are plenty of unique options close to cities like Toronto.
It doesn’t matter what time of the year it is or what you want to do. Ontario offers some of the best Canadian weekend getaways; whether it’s a trip for couples, finding some fun outdoor activities or staying in luxury resorts, Ontario has it all. In this post, I’ll give you the best places to escape for the weekend, including romantic places, relaxing resorts, and destinations that offer excellent outdoor activities.
So, no matter what you’re thinking of planning for your next trip, continue reading my list of fantastic getaway options that offer something for everyone. If you can’t take the whole weekend off, don’t worry, my post on day trips from Toronto gives loads of things to do if you’re a busy person and still want to make the most of your weekend.
To find great weekend accommodation options, you can search vacation rentals in Ontario via CozyCozy, which gives you several affordable listings over several platforms (Airbnb & Vacation Rentals, Resorts, Hotels etc.) Definitely one of our favourite hidden gems.
Romantic Weekend Getaways in Ontario
When planning a romantic getaway in Ontario, there are many options to choose between. To make it easier, I’ve selected some excellent destinations for couples to visit at varying times of the year.
Niagara Falls
It would be a crime not to include Niagara Falls on a weekend getaway. Long associated with romance, Niagara Falls is a famous destination for honeymooners on vacation. It’s also the perfect place to visit on a weekend trip.
Only an hour and twenty-two minutes from Toronto, Niagara Falls has many hotels, and almost all of them offer romance packages for couples. Here couples can enjoy the walkways providing non-stop sounds and visuals of the roaring waterfalls in the background.
The best time to visit Niagara Falls is during summer and springtime. Visitors are treated to impressive floral displays in many of the city’s gardens and along the Niagara Parkway.
However, don’t shirk off visiting Niagara Falls in the winter because many hotels offer incredible deals in the offseason, which is perfect for deal-hunters. Many hotel rooms on special during this time are equipped with fireplaces, which makes them extra warm and cozy, perfect for snuggling.
The hotel with one of the best views is the Hilton Niagara Falls. Towering over the falls, the accommodation has two towers with rooms and suites that have floor-to-ceiling glass windows that give couples uninterrupted views of the falls.
The Blue Mountains & Collingwood
Just over two hours outside of Toronto, this destination is ideal for visiting in the winter as it’s one of the most popular ski areas in the area. Here you’ll be able to hit the slopes during the day and enjoy fantastic apres-ski in the evenings. The village has many stores and restaurants to visit when you’re not skiing, but there are also lots of other excellent activities available.
Blue Mountain Resort is also open to visitors in the summer months. You can explore endless hiking trails along the Niagara ridgeline that will allow you to visit waterfalls and enjoy beautiful scenic views. Mountain biking couples will also enjoy this destination due to the trails just a few minutes out of town.
Westin Trillium House is an excellent place to stay in Blue Mountain. It has rooms with cozy fireplaces and patios, as well as panoramic views of the mountainside. There is also an outdoor heated pool and a hot tub for you to relax in after a long day of activities. This is especially attractive in winter months when you can thaw out in the warm pool as snowflakes litter the skyline.
After spending some time at The Blue Mountain resort, head into Collingwood for some great beer and restaurants!
Ontario Wine Country Getaways
Niagara-on-the-lake
The Niagara-on-the-lake wine region is located just south of Toronto. This is a great option if you want to spend your weekends getting away from the hustle and bustle of the big city.
There are many wineries here offering tours and tastings, so you can learn more about how wine is made. Some of these wineries even offer cooking classes where you can learn how to cook using local ingredients.
You can easily find accommodations near the wineries, making it easy for you to plan your next weekend getaway. These places are often very affordable and come complete with kitchens so you won’t need to worry about bringing anything with you.
Be sure to drop into hockey legend and Brantford native Wayne Gretzky’s Wayne Gretzky Estate Winery & Distillery for wine and whiskey tasting
Twenty Valley
Another great destination for couples looking for a romantic getaway, Twenty Valley is located about five hours east of Toronto. This small town has everything you could possibly need if you’re looking for a fun-filled weekend away.
Whether you’re interested in shopping, eating, or simply enjoying the outdoors, this destination has it covered. There are many great restaurants where you can sample local dishes, including Italian, Mexican, Chinese, French, and even American food.
In addition to the variety of restaurants, there are also many unique boutiques where you can shop for gifts. One of my favourites is the Artisan Gallery which sells handcrafted items made by local artists.
During the warmer months, you can go swimming in the river or play tennis at one of the nearby courts. You can also enjoy the beautiful scenery by going for a hike or bike ride along the trails that run through the area
Norfolk County
Ontario’s garden is a place where people come to relax and get away from the city. There are lots of farm-fresh foods, and there are many vineyards and wineries nearby. You can go hiking, biking, or take a tour around the countryside.
There are many hotels and bed & breakfast inns in Norfolk County, but one of my favourite spots is The Inn at Black Creek Vineyard. It’s a charming little hotel with just eight guestrooms. Each room comes equipped with a fireplace, kitchenette, and private bathroom.
Prince Edward County
A two-hour drive out of Toronto is Prince Edward County. It’s the ideal place for those that want a weekend of wine tasting, dining and visiting the beaches in the Sandbanks Provincial Park.
The park is famous for its soft, golden sand beaches that are a popular family destination in the summer. Dunes Beach and Outlet Beach are two of the most beautiful spots in the region.
When not enjoying the sun in the Sandbanks Provincial Park, visitors take advantage of the area’s wine, cider and brewery tours.
The area is also known for its excellent seasonal produce and artisanal foods. Cooking classes are popular among visitors, where they can learn to cook using ingredients from the surrounding areas, also known as farm-to-table meals During the summer and fall, small towns in the area host festivals and events that offer many fun activities over the weekend.
For comfortable accommodation, stay at the Waring House. The property has 49 rooms that are in historic and modern buildings. There is frequently live music and Amelia’s Garden Restaurant that serves delectable local specialties made from fresh ingredients sourced from nearby farms.
Point Pelee wine country
Point Pelee Wine Country is a Canadian wine region located in the southern part of Ontario. The area includes the townships of Point Pelee, Sandwich East, Sandwich West, and the Township Municipality of St. Clair-Eglinton.
The wine region is home to over 50 wineries, making it one of the largest wine regions in Canada.
There are many reasons why you should consider visiting Point Pelee Wine Country. First off, it’s only about 2 hours away from Toronto, which makes it an ideal weekend getaway. You’ll also find beautiful beaches, hiking trails, golf courses, and much more.
Ontario Cities & Towns
Port Perry, Lake Scugog & Durham Region
Durham Region is a beautiful place to go kayaking or hiking during summertime and ice fishing on Lake Scugog in Port Perry during the winter. After having spent the day on Lake Scugog, head into Port Perry for some delicious local craft beer at Old Flame Brewery
Uxbridge is home to Haugen’s chicken whose rotisserie chickens have been turning since the 1950s. There are many great restaurants in Goodwood which happens to be one of the filming locations for Schitt’s Creek. Be sure to pop into Slabtown Cider Co., they make their own apple ciders and serve them right on site.
Elora, Fergus, Guelph (Wellington County)
Wellington County has some of Ontario’s most charming towns near the Grand River. You’ll find yourself immersed in small wildlife viewing, and even rock or ice climbing.
One of the famous Group of Seven painters, A.J. Casson, called Elora “Ontario’s Most Beautiful Village.” There are many things to do in Elora; parks, extreme activities like zip-lining and river tubing, and hiking. You’ll love the authentic, original mom-and-pop shops in the downtown area – trust me, these days it’s all about supporting local businesses.
Fergus is approximately 5 km (3 miles) from Elora, with more small village charm. Stone buildings, quaint eateries and unique galleries make up Fergus’ residential community. Many people visit the town to attend the Fergus Scottish Festival and Highland Games taking place in August every year.
From the beautiful Notre Dame-like Basilica of Our Lady to the Guelph Civic Museum, this quaint, rural city of Guelph boasts an increasing tourism scene. Coupled with Elora and Fergus, visitors come to see the festivals and parks, as well as the downtown area filled with bars, restaurants, shops, and more.
St Jacobs, Kitchener, Waterloo & Cambridge (Waterloo Region)
The highlight of St. Jacob’s is the St Jacobs Farmers’ and Flea Market. Canada’s biggest year-round farmers’ & flea market. Here, you’ll find some good treats, crafts, and fun little knick-knacks every Thursday and Saturday. Another incredible feature is the local Mennonite community and at The Mennonite Story Museum, you can learn more about the community’s migration, history and culture.
Known as the Twin Cities Kitchener & Waterloo are often mentioned together. Kitchener is a wonderful and vibrant place. The town’s mixture of activities, combined with its small-town vibe, makes it the ideal place to explore. Waterloo is a University city, The city may be small, but that is no reflection of what it can offer. From shopping, eating and drinking to outdoor activities and festivals. The biggest festivals are the Kitchener-Waterloo Oktoberfest and the Elmira Syrup Festival.
Cambridge is divided into three areas: Galt, Hespeler, and Preston offer historical sights, outdoor activities, and breathtaking natural spaces which are highly instagrammable. Be sure to include some much-needed R&R at Langdon Hall Country House Hotel (mentioned a little further down in the article)
Kingston
Kingston is home to the oldest university in North America, Queen’s University. The city was founded in 1783 and named after King George III. It is known for its historic buildings, museums, parks, and festivals. There are many things to see and experience in Kingston. Whether you want to go sightseeing or enjoy some fun activities, Kingston is a great place to visit.
There are so many places to check out when visiting Kingston. One of my favourites is the Royal Military College of Canada. This is where the Canadian Army Cadet Corps trains young men and women to become officers. Also, there is a museum dedicated to the history of the college. If you’re looking for something different, take a tour on horseback through the campus. You’ll have a chance to view the grounds and meet the cadets.
Ottawa
Whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway or just something fun and exciting to do together, there are plenty of places to go on a weekend trip to the County’s capital city. The Rideau Canal is one of Canada’s most popular tourist attractions. It was built between 1832-1854 and runs for over 100 km through some of the most beautiful scenery in Eastern Canada. Today it’s used for recreational boating, during the warmer months but during the winter month, it becomes the Country’s largest skating rink.
Byward Market is a lively market that takes place every Saturday morning in the heart of downtown Ottawa. Thousands of visitors come here to shop for fresh produce, local arts and crafts, and delicious food.
Ottawa parliament buildings are also worth checking out. They were designed by Sir Edmund Walker and opened their doors in 1965. It has been designated a National Historic Site of Canada and houses the offices of Parliament Hill.
If you’d like to stay closer to the water, try staying at the Fairmont Chateau Laurier hotel. It offers views of the Ottawa River and offers easy access to everything the City has to offer.
Chateau Laurier Ottawa
If you’re looking for a hotel in Ottawa, there are plenty of options available, but nothing compares to the historic Chateau Laurier Hotel. Located right on the Rideau Canal in Ottawa, Canada, this iconic landmark has hosted royalty and Presidents.
Dine in La Terrasse for views of the Parliament Buildings or head to Zoes for cocktails and light snacks.
Napanee, Greater Napanee, Bon Echo (Lennox & Addington County)
If you’re looking for something a little different from the usual tourist spots, this could be it. Greater Napanee is a great stop on your weekend trip through Ontario with lots of wineries and breweries. With a population of just under 3,000 people, the town of Napanee is small enough that you can walk around and explore the several galleries, studios, boutiques, cafés, and restaurants.
However, if you can include historic Bath & Amhurst Island, stargazing in the County’s Dark Sky locations and the incredible scenery + indigenous culture in Bon Echo Provincial Park, L&A easily becomes a weekend destination in its own right.
London
A weekend getaway in London, Ontario is a great option for those looking for an experience in the city. The city has many things to offer and there are plenty of places to stay that will make your trip memorable.
If you’re planning a vacation in London, Ontario then you should definitely take advantage of all it has to offer. There are tons of fun activities and events throughout the year including festivals, concerts, sports tournaments, comedy shows, parades, fairs, art exhibits, and more. If you want to see some of these events go ahead and plan your visit now! The city offers many different types of accommodations from hotels to bed & breakfasts to hostels. However, if you looking for a little history we recommend The Park Hotel. This hotel has been around since 1859. It was once part of a larger estate that included a mansion and stables. Today, this historic building is one of the most luxurious hotels in London. It offers guests a chance to relax in one of its many rooms. Each room features a private balcony with views of the park and gardens. Guests can dine on delicious meals at the hotel’s restaurant.
Windsor
Another great city in Ontario’s Southwestern corner is Windsor. There are so many things to do in Windsor, Ontario that you won’t even know where to start. Whether you’re into shopping, dining, sightseeing, or exploring nature, there’s always something going on in Windsor. Plus, Windsor is also close to Point Pelee Wine Country!
The main attraction of Caesars Windsor is a hotel and casino, founded by the Caesars corporation in 1985 as a joint venture with the local government of Windsor, Ontario. They are known for their luxurious rooms, gourmet cuisine, and live entertainment.
Burlington, Oakville, Milton (Halton Region)
There are many things to see and do in the Halton region. From the Niagara Escarpment to Lake Ontario’s beaches, there is something for everyone.
Burlington is a city located on the shores of Lake Ontario and nestled between Toronto and Niagara Falls. Burlington is packed with plenty of family-friendly activities, charming alleys, trendy boutiques, as well as culinary delights. Finding fun things to do in Burlington shouldn’t be a problem.
The Pearl Hotel & Spa
New to the neighbourhood is The Pearle. Located on the Burlington waterfront with the lake as its backdrop, The Pearl Hotel & Spa offers rooms that are spacious with high ceilings and large windows. The elegant 151-room hotel is a reflection of the lake houses of yesteryear where Pearl spent most of her summers Elegant and friendly, the hotel embodies the hospitality spirit.
Oakville is a small town located on the shores of Lake Ontario. It’s known for its beautiful beaches, great restaurants and charming downtown area. The village has many things to offer visitors including festivals, art galleries, museums, parks, shops, wineries, golf courses, and much more.
Among the most popular Milton attractions and the main reason for people to visit the area is its access not just to nature but also to hiking and conservation areas. From Rattlesnake Point Conservation Area and Kelso / Glen Eden Conservation Area to Hilton Falls Conservation Area and Crawford Lake Iroquoian Village
Resorts for Weekend Getaway in Ontario
For those who want to escape the city’s hum and drum and relax the weekend away in style, the following three resorts in Ontario offer visitors just that. Each resort is located close to urban centers, like Toronto, so travel time is minimal.
Langdon Hall Country House Hotel
Langdon Hall is a historic hotel located in the Waterloo Region. It offers packages ranging from spa credits and multi-course meals by private chefs. The hotel’s restaurant, The Kitchen at Langdon Hall, serves breakfast, lunch, dinner, and Sunday brunch. They offer a wide variety of dishes including salads, soups, sandwiches, pasta, entrees, and desserts. Their menu changes seasonally but they always feature fresh local ingredients.
Guests can take advantage of their facilities, which include a fitness center, indoor pool, sauna, steam room, and hot tubs. This historic and impressive mansion was built in 1857 and has been restored to its original beauty.
Located in Cambridge spending a day in Cambridge or visiting Cambridge and surrounding areas is easy as there are lots of things to do. Cambridge is known for its gorgeous architecture, cute cafes, restaurants great views of the Grand River.
If you’d like to visit Langdon Hall during the day, be sure to make reservations ahead of time.
Book online at LangdonHall.ca.
JW Marriott The Rosseau Muskoka Resort and Spa
The JW Marriott The Rosseau Muskoka Resort and Spa is a superb choice for those who prefer Ontario’s high-end resorts. Only two and a half hours from Toronto and located in cottage country, the resort’s hillside location gives visitors views looking down on Lake Rosseau, so be sure to get a room with a lake view when booking your accommodation.
You can choose between brightly coloured studios to deluxe suites with separate bedrooms, dining areas and lounges. The largest room is 117 square meters and has a private balcony.
You can explore many activities on the resort’s property, including eating at the resort’s top-tier restaurants, relaxing by the large pool, or getting pampered at the spa. On top of this, you can enjoy other outdoor activities in the surrounding areas.
You can go kayaking on the lake, hiking and biking in the surrounding hills, along with other nature programs. This is a resort that you won’t want to leave once you’re there!
Great Wolf Lodge, Niagara Falls
The Great Wolf Lodge in Niagara Falls is a perfect family-friendly place to escape for the weekend, and it’s only an hour and twenty minutes from Toronto. This lodge offers guests a mixture of fun on-site activities and dining options, but it’s also very close to restaurants, shopping areas and visitor attractions in Niagara Falls.
Inside the resort, there are water rides, pools and games that are just some of the kid’s program’s activities, making the lodge perfect for families with children. Adults can enjoy other activities, including mini-golf, bowling, a fitness center, and a spa.
Children will love the “Kid Kamp” suites that can sleep up to six people. These rooms have a tent-themed area with bunk beds for the kids and a queen bed for parents. The rooms also have large TV screens, private balconies, fridges and coffee makers.
For visitors without kids, there are rooms with queen beds and a loft suite with a cozy living area separate from the bedroom.
Severn Lodge, Port Severn
Just under a two-hour drive from Toronto, the Severn Lodge is a resort in Ontario that gives guests a chance to stay in traditional country cottages. With more than 700 meters of beautiful shoreline for guests to enjoy, the lodge overlooks the Gloucester Pool, directly linking to Georgian Bay and the Great Lakes.
The lodge has water activities that include kayaks, jet skis and tour boats that let you explore the area’s beautiful bodies of water.
In the main building, there are top-notch rooms available that have extra space. There are also great family options. These two-bedroom suites have lots of space due to the living rooms. Each room also comes with a full kitchen, sofa bed, and a large terrace with a screened-in porch with excellent views of the water.
This lodge is closed in the winter months, so if this resort sounds enticing, make sure to plan your weekend getaway in the summer months.
Somewhere Inn Calabogie
Somewhere in the middle of the Ottawa Valley of Lake Calabogie is a roadside motel that makes for the perfect place to go to relax and enjoy nature. There are many beautiful places to see here, such as lakes, forests, and even mountains. A great place to stay if you’re looking for some peace and quiet!
The hotel has a restaurant where guests can eat breakfast, lunch, dinner, and snacks. They offer a variety of options including gluten-free, vegan, vegetarian, and meat dishes. Guests can also order from room service and they will deliver it right to your door.
Pillar and Post Inn Spa
For an excellent hotel located in a top wine-producing region, visit the Pillar and Post Inn & Spa. The Pillar and Post have been around for a long time and have a rich history of producing high-quality products in Niagara-on-The-Lake.
The original Pillar and Post inn opened in 1972 and underwent significant renovations to become the 5-star Vintage Hotel known today. Enter the Pillar and Post and you’ll see the original post and beam design throughout the sunlit lobby of the hotel and the Cannery restaurant.
Elmhurst Inn and Spa
Since 1872, the Elmhurst Inn & Spa has been a popular destination for visitors to southwestern Ontario. It offers guests a unique combination of historic charm and scenic beauty, combined with the modern amenities travellers have come to expect from an upscale boutique hotel.
With 47 spacious guest rooms and two luxury suites, a fine-dining restaurant, the Spa at the Elm Hurst Inn, an array of unique reception spaces for wedding receptions, conferences and other special occasions, electric vehicle charging stations and a wide variety of other amenities, Elm Hurst Inn and Spa has been welcoming guests from around the world for nearly three decades.
Idlewyld Inn and Spa
Since 1878, Idlewylde Inn & Spa has been a local landmark for travellers who want to experience the elegance of a bygone era combined with all the modern amenities they’ve come to expect from a luxurious hotel.
With 21 uniquely designed guest rooms, an on-site spa, and a fine dining restaurant plus reception spaces for intimate weddings, meetings, conferences, and other special occasions. Located in the heart of London’s historic “Old South” neighbourhood, Idlewyld is just minutes from the centre of Downtown London and a quick walk to Wortley Village.
Outdoor Weekend Getaways in Ontario
Ontario is one of the best places in Canada for those that love exploring the great outdoors. Whether you’re travelling solo, with a family, or a loved one, the following weekend getaways will let you take in Ontario’s natural beauty (and they’re all close to Toronto).
Algonquin Provincial Park
Three and a half hours from Toronto, this location is best suited for avid campers during the summer months. If you love the outdoors, such as camping in Huntsville, fishing in Huntsville or hiking in Huntsville then you’ll enjoy the Algonquin Provincial Park. It’s one of Ontario’s getaways that’s excellent for exploring the area’s network of hiking trails, untouched lakes, and dense forests.
Campers have a choice of eight campsites, and if tenting is not your style, there are log cabins situated throughout the park. This makes the Algonquin Provincial Park a cheaper weekend getaway option for anyone that wants to do multiple-day hikes.
In the fall, visitors are treated with beautiful orange, red and yellow leaves in the Provincial Park. However, this time of the year is busy, so it’s best to plan your accommodation accordingly.
When in the area, visit the Algonquin Logging Museum. Logging was allowed in the Algonquin Park before it became the National Historic Site of Canada. Here visitors can learn about the area’s history and check out interactive exhibits and a retired steam-powered train.
Grand Bend
Just under three hours from Toronto is Grand Bend; that’s best for relaxing on the beach over the weekend. This location is perfect for families that want to escape the city for the weekend and spend time suntanning, swimming and playing beach games.
Those that want an adrenaline rush can take advantage of parasailing, skydiving and jet skiing on Lake Huron. Visitors can also visit the Pinery Provincial Park that was created to protect the Oak Savanna and dunes, endemic to the area. There are areas where visitors can relax on the beaches, camp and hike the trails that zig-zag through the park.
Check out the Grand Bend Farmers Market if you’re visiting during summer. This market is perfect for trying local produce and artisanal food on your weekend away.
The Oakwood Resort, which opened way back in 1922, is a family-owned and run resort. The one hundred twenty-four rooms offer visitors a range of lodging options, including suites, cottages and deluxe rooms. The resort has an eighteen-hole golf course, spa, pub, restaurant, and an indoor pool and hot tub, to name a few, which makes this a great place to stay for a weekend away.
Tobermory
Near Manitoulin Island and the Bruce Peninsula National Park, and just under four hours away from Toronto, Tobermory provides amazing weekends for a couples getaway in Ontario, during the summer months. In winter, most of the town’s accommodation is closed, so make sure to come here in summer.
The first thing you’ll notice when arriving in Tobermory is the crystal clear waters of Georgian Bay. Then, the rows of restaurants, art galleries and shops lining the water’s edge will catch your eye.
If you’re after some outdoor activities, then the Bruce Peninsula National Park is a must-visit. The park has endless hiking trails to explore. Organized tours can take you to see unique rock formations on Flowerpot Island. On the way there, you’ll go past the region’s famous shipwreck that is perfectly visible in the clear water.
If you want to stay close to town, then the Adventure Bruce Inn is a great choice. It offers very comfortable accommodation that’s close to everything. If you’d prefer a place out of town, then the Lionheart Guesthouse and B&B is another superb option. It’s south of Tobermory, has a traditional bed and breakfast vibe, and is cheaper than staying in the town.
Final Thoughts on Weekend Trips in Ontario
When it comes to weekend trips, whether it’s a relaxing resort experience, exploring the outdoors or a couples getaway, Ontario has it all – no matter the season.
The nine destinations mentioned above are close to Toronto (and other metro areas), so there is bound to be a location that appeals to your preferred type of weekend getaway. So why not make the most of your next weekend?
If you have a fantastic destination for a weekend away, let me know in the comments below. Whether it’s questions or recommendations – I want to hear them all!
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