10 Fun Toronto, Canada Day Trips For A Spontaneous Getaway

Toronto is not only the largest city in Canada, but also one of the most diverse urban centers in the world. In 2021, 42.5% of Toronto residents reported that their mother tongue is neither English nor French. In practice, this means that the city is home to many different cultures, including fun celebrations that range from Diwali to the Toronto Caribbean Carnival to Lunar New Year parades. But, while Toronto is certainly full of activity, there are other parts of Ontario that are well worth a visit. Toronto is a great destination for a fall getaway, but it also serves as the perfect basecamp to explore some of Canada's most incredible national parks and charming historic towns in every season.

With this in mind, we have compiled a list of essential day trip destinations near Toronto, Canada. For this guide, we have used our own expertise as well as feedback from hundreds of traveler reviews and the must-visit places recommended by local tourism boards. We compiled a list of small towns, lakeside villages, and provincial parks that promise both adventure and an escape from busy city life. Whether you're traveling in the summer or in the heart of winter in the Great White North, these destinations are bound to impress.

Those who love to chase waterfalls should consider heading to Inglis Falls Conservation Area, located in the southwestern Ontario city of Owen Sound. This tranquil nature preserve offers nearly 500 acres of rushing rivers, dense forests, and spectacular falls. The crown jewel of the area, though, is the Inglis Falls waterfall, which stretches an impressive 60 feet from rocky cliffs to the stony riverbed below. To experience this natural wonder, visitors can head down a paved path to a wheelchair accessible platform that looks out at the falls. Bird watchers will be thrilled to see local bobolinks making their nests on the forest floor. Hikers, meanwhile, will be pleased with the 4.61 miles of trails that wind through the area.

Inglis Falls Conservation Area is an excellent place to explore regardless of the season, though weather-appropriate gear is essential in the colder months. The thundering rapids are framed by lush greenery in the warmer months, while winter transforms the cascade into otherworldly ice formations. The best time to see Inglis Falls, however, is during the peak of fall foliage when the stunning contrast between the water and the vibrant autumn leaves creates an unforgettable visual. To arrive in Owen Sound, the drive is approximately 2.5 hours from downtown Toronto. Keep in mind that parking fees at Inglis Falls Conservation Area are cashless and cost $10 CAD per vehicle, equal to about $7 USD, at the time of writing. While bus transportation from Toronto to Owen Sound is available, having your own car is the most efficient way to get around. 

Embarking on a day trip from Toronto to Europe may sound like nothing more than a dream, but the town of Cobourg almost makes it possible. One of the few North American cities that feel like popular European destinations, Cobourg boasts historic buildings that look straight out of a foreign postcard. Visitors can explore Cobourg's history by embarking on the Poppy Trail, a self-guided World War I-themed walking tour that begins at the spectacular Victoria Hall. Built in 1860, this structure's stunning old courtroom and concert hall provide a glimpse into Cobourg's ornate past. Travelers can explore the interior by signing up for a free tour of Victoria Hall. Other points of interest on the Poppy Trail include Victoria College and St. Michael the Archangel Roman Catholic Church, a 19th-century Romanesque Revival basilica.

Beyond Cobourg's picturesque streetscapes, the town is home to a sprawling white sand beach on the shores of Lake Ontario, with a long boardwalk and volleyball nets in the sand where visitors love to savor Ontario's short but sweet summer. The town also boasts a bourgeoning arts scene. At the Art Gallery of Northumberland (AGN), visitors can explore a collection of approximately 1,000 pieces that focus primarily on Canadian art and sculpture. Entry to AGN is free, but donations are encouraged. As you wander in Cobourg, you will likely spot the countless murals that dot the town's streets. Grab a sweater, a cup of local coffee, and enjoy the peaceful and colorful atmosphere. The journey from downtown Toronto is roughly 90 minutes by car (without traffic), or an hour-long trip on the VIA Rail train from Toronto's Union Station terminal. 

Travelers looking for a place to enjoy the outdoors year-round should definitely plan a trip to Arrowhead Provincial Park in Huntsville, Ontario. Located along the wooded shores of Arrowhead Lake, this nature preserve offers excellent water sports in the summer. Rent a kayak or canoe at the park and absorb the tranquility of surrounding forest as you paddle. Unlike some of the busier surrounding lakes, Arrowhead does not permit motorboats. This helps to reduce noise pollution and allows visitors to take a relaxing dip without worrying about a jet-ski or a wakeboarder zooming by. 

Summer may be a popular time at Arrowhead Provincial Park, but other seasons offer their own unique charms. During autumn, visitors can enjoy jaw-dropping views of fall foliage on the park's 9 miles of winding forest trails. One of the most stunning hikes, Stubb's Falls Trail, takes visitors through 1.5 miles of woodlands before culminating in a cascading waterfall. This trail is just as spectacular in the winter, with snowshoeing trails and shimmering icicles. Ice skaters are also guaranteed to enjoy a day trip to Arrowhead Provincial Park, thanks to the iconic ice trail that winds through magical snow-covered pines. The park hosts Fire and Ice nights on select dates in the winter, when the trail is illuminated by glowing torches and the moonlit sky. Be sure to reserve tickets to the ice trail in advance, as it can get busy. Arrowhead Provincial Park is just under three hours north of downtown Toronto by car. Turn your visit into an overnight getaway by staying in the charming nearby town of Huntsville. 

For a summer getaway with boats, kayaks, and beyond, head to the stunning Lake Simcoe. Situated between Lake Ontario and Lake Huron's Georgian Bay, Lake Simcoe boasts much warmer waters than the Great Lakes that surround it. This makes activities like waterskiing, wakeboarding, and kayaking even more enjoyable. Cruising on a pontoon rental or paddling through the water on a stand-up paddleboard are also popular ways to spend a summer afternoon on Lake Simcoe.

Lake Simcoe is home to several public boat launches, but there are also boat rentals available for day trippers. Pontoon rentals tend to be on the pricier side and may require the driver to obtain a Pleasure Craft Operator Card (PCOC), while non-motorized paddle boats are a budget-friendly way to enjoy the water without any paperwork. That being said, folks who are simply looking for a relaxing day on the sand may opt to go to Centennial Beach, a top-rated public beach with a lifeguard and a playground. There are also several provincial parks on Lake Simcoe, including Sibbald Point and McRae Lake Provincial Park, with campsites available in the summer. 

Getting to Lake Simcoe from Toronto is relatively easy by car, and the journey is roughly 90 minutes from the downtown core to Barrie, the nearest major city to Lake Simcoe. Visitors traveling by public transit can take the GO train or bus from Toronto's Union Station to Barrie's Allandale Waterfront in under two hours.

Canada is world-famous for its winter wonderland, and there may be no better place in Ontario to hit the snow than the Blue Mountain Resort near the town of Collingwood, Ontario, an underrated mountain ski village with a famous spa. As the most expansive ski hill near Toronto, Blue Mountain offers great slopes for skiers and snowboarders of all levels. It offers both gentle runs for beginners and challenging terrain for those looking to sharpen their skills. However, the majority of the mountain caters to an intermediate-level crowd. With 43 trails that wind down a total of 365 acres of skiable terrain, Blue Mountain has enough thrills to keep you entertained until the ski lifts close. The surrounding Blue Mountain Village is full of shops, restaurants, and cozy cafes, while the nearby Scandinave Spa Blue Mountain offers relaxing thermal baths to soak your muscles after a long day on the slopes. 

Lift ticket prices at Blue Mountain vary greatly depending on when you visit. Generally, an adult single day ski pass costs between $49 and $96 CAD, or $35 to $68 USD. However, the most spontaneous of visitors may end up paying between $69 and $159 CAD, or somewhere between $49 and $113 USD. You may be able to get a discount by purchasing your passes in advance online. In addition to downhill thrills, Blue Mountain also offers snow tubing, mountaintop ice skating, snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing. The drive to Blue Mountain is roughly two-and-a-half hours from Toronto, and Flixbus also provides direct trips to Collingwood for those visiting without a car. 

Napa Valley may be a long journey from Toronto, but you don't have to travel to California to enjoy wine country. Just a couple of hours east of Toronto, Prince Edward County, Ontario is known as one of Canada's top wine-growing regions. With 40 top-notch cellars — including the world's first vegan-certified winery — Prince Edward County is a fantastic place for a wine tasting adventure. Whether you book a guided tour or explore the region's wineries at your own pace, visitors will have the chance to sample a diverse assortment of vinos, ranging from fruity chardonnay to pinot noir to sparkling sips.

The easiest way to get to the Prince Edward County wine region is by car. The nearest wineries are about two hours from downtown Toronto and provide delicious eats in addition to wine. That being said, depending on whether all members of your group plan to imbibe, it can be a good idea to hire a driver for easy transportation between wineries. There are several charming towns in the region with historic architecture, antique stores, boutique hotels, and outstanding restaurants. If you're visiting in the summer, be sure to check out Sandbanks Provincial Park, home to the world's largest baymouth barrier sand dunes. If you don't have a vehicle to get to Prince Edward County, take the VIA Rail train from Toronto to Belleville — local bus transportation from Belleville into Prince Edward County is available in the summer months. 

Skip the tourist traps in Niagara Falls and head to Niagara-on-the-Lake instead. Located 25 minutes from the falls on the scenic shores of Lake Ontario, Niagara-on-the-Lake offers some of the most beautiful historic gems in Ontario. The town was founded in 1792 after British loyalists fled to Canada en masse from the United States. There, they constructed classic British-style buildings, which have been carefully preserved through the centuries, giving Niagara-on-the-Lake its timeless charm.

To explore the town's history, embark on a self-guided walking tour of the area. There are various sights worth seeing around town, including the 19th-century McFarland House and surrounding gardens. The local courthouse, meanwhile, offers more Victorian neoclassical vibes. The seasonal Niagara Apothecary museum, open regularly from May to September, is a 19th-century pharmacy that offers a fascinating glimpse into the region's past. It's no wonder that Nigara-on-the-Lake is considered a National Historic Site of Canada. 

The Niagara-on-the-Lake Museum is home to an impressive collection of 50,000 artifacts, making it a must-visit attraction. To see history come to life, visit the seasonal Fort George National Historic Site, once a stronghold during the War of 1812. From April to October, visitors can explore this military site and see old-fashioned musket demonstrations. However, simply strolling the boulevards of this historic town feels like a trip back in time. Getting to Niagara-on-the-Lake from Toronto takes roughly two hours by car or train. Like Prince Edward County, the Niagara region is also known for its lush vineyards and award-winning wineries.

To trade the big-city energy for a different kind of thrill, head to Canada's Wonderland in the city of Vaughan. This world-class amusement park offers over 200 attractions that appeal to all age groups. Hard-core adventurers will love the 18 roller coasters at Canada's Wonderland, especially Leviathan. As the highest and fastest rollercoaster in all of Canada, Leviathan ascends 306 feet before zooming down a gravity-defying drop at almost 92 miles per hour. Of course, there are plenty of other rides for those who prefer to take it easy. The paddle boat experience at Swan Lake provides a tranquil moment on the water, while the Maple Park Treehouse playground entertains the youngest of visitors. Recently, the park opened a world recording-breaking launch coaster inside of its iconic mountain, Wonder Mountain.

Canada's Wonderland and its on-site waterpark are open all season long, from May to October for its annual Halloween Haunt event. However, that does not mean that winter at Canada's Wonderland is totally off-limits. Every year from mid-November to early January, the park hosts Winterfest, a winter wonderland experience where visitors can enjoy holiday-themed attractions, interactive ice skating, and access to around 20 rides, as well as delicious themed eats and live entertainment. General admission tickets to Canada's Wonderland start at $40 CAD, equal to roughly $28.50 USD. The journey is around 45 minutes from downtown Toronto by car. Alternatively, GO Transit provides direct service to Vaughan from Toronto's Union Station. 

Many don't know that Toronto itself has a thriving secret hidden wilderness, and nowhere is this more evident than Rouge National Urban Park, one of the largest urban parks in North America. Although this national park is technically located in the Greater Toronto Area suburb of Markham, it is incredibly easy to get to from the city. Activities at the park range from canoeing down the Rouge River to hiking the steep Mast Trail, which stretches 1.4-miles each way through the park's Carolinian forest. During the winter, many trails remain open for snowshoers and cross-country skiers. Visitors can sign up for a complimentary guided walk with a park volunteer, which includes special options for pet owners and families with small kids. 

Although visiting the park is generally free, some workshops include a small fee and require prior registration, such as the Learn To Camp workshop that equips visitors with the skills to go camping in the wilderness. Rouge National Urban Park is a 30 to 45-minute drive from downtown Toronto, however, it's also accessible by Toronto's TTC public transit system or GO Transit from Union Station.

Europe may be the continent most famous for its palaces and grand estates, but that doesn't mean that North America is lacking. Oshawa, Canada is home to one of the most opulent mansions of the 20th century — a 15,000-square-foot structure called the Parkwood Estate. Designated a National Historic Site of Canada in 1989, Parkwood provides a tantalizing glimpse into the glamorous lives of the ultra-wealthy. The estate's original owner, Robert Samuel McLaughlin, founded the McLaughlin Motor Car Company before eventually spearheading the Canadian branch of General Motors. He spent his fortune on the Parkwood Estate, designed in an Edwardian Baroque revival Beaux-Arts style by architectural visionaries Darling and Pearson. These days, the mansion stands alongside the Royal Ontario Museum as one of the duo's many spectacular projects.

To view Parkwood National Historic Site in all of its glory, visitors can sign up for one of the many available tours. The "Auto Baron's Experience" tour provides a glimpse into the McLaughlin family's opulent entertainment spaces. Other experiences include the "Loo & Behold" tour, which explores the estate's ornate bathrooms. The "Servant's Life Experience" shows what life was like for the many staff members who kept the estate in immaculate shape. Parkwood National Historic Site is located in Oshawa, a city just one hour east of downtown Toronto by car, also accessible by GO Transit.

Though there are many incredible day trip destinations around Toronto, our guide focuses primarily on the places located less than three hours away from the city center. Keeping in mind that only 69.4% of people in greater Toronto regularly get around by car, the vast majority of these places are accessible by public transit. The destinations that require a vehicle — Inglis Falls Conservation Area, Arrowhead Provincial Park, and Blue Mountain — each boast outdoor experiences that are truly unique and worth the road trip.

In addition to my own travel experiences in Ontario and the expertise of our Toronto-based editorial staff, this guide also includes the most highly-rated locations based on hundreds of reviews from Tripadvisor, as well as widely recommended places featured on Reddit forums. While Cobourg and Niagara-on-the-Lake stand out for their historic atmosphere, Parkwood National Historic Site made the list for its incomparable grandeur. Rouge National Urban Park is both accessible and extraordinary in size and natural beauty, while Canada's Wonderland is exceptional in an entirely different category. Some of these destinations, such as Prince Edward County and Lake Simcoe, are best enjoyed in the summer. However, to live like a true Canadian, be sure to embrace the outdoors in the winter months too.