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53 Best Day Trips From Toronto (2024 Local Guide)

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Day trips are the perfect way to get out and explore a new place without having to spend too much time or money.

And Toronto is a great city from which to launch day trips, thanks to its convenient location and wealth of attractions.

After living in Toronto for most of my life, I’ve discovered all of the best one day trips you can take from downtown Toronto or the suburbs out to nearby cities, towns, and hiking areas.

Don’t limit yourself to the downtown core on your next trip to Toronto.

Discover the 53 best Toronto day trips to explore more of what Ontario has to offer (and tips on how to get there!).

How to Get Around Ontario

There are a few different ways to get around Ontario depending on your budget and how much time you have.

If you’re just looking to get out of the city for the day, then the GO Train is a great option as it runs frequently and takes you right into the heart of most destinations.

If you don’t have your own car, other options are VIA Rail , although it can be quite expensive, and Parkbus.

The best way to get around Ontario is to rent a car and drive. This gives you the freedom to go wherever you want whenever you want.

If you’re looking for a cheap rental car in Toronto, I recommend booking via Discover Cars.

53 Best Day Trips From Toronto

1. Niagara Falls

Distance from Toronto : 130 km

Drive Time : 1 hr 45 min

Niagara Falls is one of the most famous waterfalls in the world.

It is actually a group of 3 waterfalls, namely Horseshoe Falls, American Falls, and Bridal Veil Falls.

The falls are situated on the border between Canada and the United States and they are absolutely stunning.

You can get a great view of all 3 waterfalls from Table Rock Centre.

To get even closer to the falls, you can take a ride on the Niagara Falls Incline Railway which will take you down 125 feet to the base of Horseshoe Falls.

For a more unique experience, you can take a ride on the Hornblower Cruise (formerly the Maid of the Mist), a boat that will take you right into the heart of the falls.

Just be sure to bring a raincoat as you will definitely get wet!

There are also plenty of other things to do in Niagara Falls such as visiting Niagara Parks Botanical Gardens, taking a wine tour , or exploring the many shops and restaurants in Niagara Falls.

Toronto to Niagara Falls

🚗 Drive : Take the QEW (Queen Elizabeth Way) west towards Hamilton and continue on it until you reach Niagara Falls.

Read more about the drive from Toronto to Niagara Falls here.

🚐 Tour: The easiest way to get to Niagara Falls is on this one day tour from Toronto , that includes a ride on the Hornblower Cruise!

🚇 Train : The GoTrain runs from Toronto to Niagara from May to Thanksgiving annually, with direct service to Niagara Falls. You can also go to Burlington GO Station and connect on the 12B Go Bus to Niagara to be more flexible on when you leave/return.

🚌 Bus : Megabus runs a service from Union Station to the Casino in Niagara Falls.

👉 I recommend this day tour to Niagara Falls from Toronto !

Distance from Toronto: 220 km

Drive Time : 2 hrs 20 min

Muskoka is a cottage country region located in central Ontario.

It is a popular summer getaway for Torontonians and it’s easy to see why with its stunning scenery, crystal clear lakes, and a plethora of outdoor activities.

There are many charming towns located in Muskoka such as Huntsville, Bracebridge, and Gravenhurst.

In these towns, you’ll find plenty of cute shops and restaurants as well as some great museums and art galleries.

Some of the best things to do in Muskoka include taking a scenic boat cruise, visiting one of the many waterfalls in the area, or hiking to a lookout point for stunning views of the landscape.

Don’t forget to try the local craft beers!

Turn it into a weekend trip by staying at a cute Airbnb cottage.

Toronto to Muskoka

🚗 Drive : Take the 401 east out of Toronto and then take exit 269 onto Highway 11 North towards Huntsville.

🚌 Bus : Take the Ontario Northland bus from Downtown Toronto north to Gravenhurst. They run 4x per day in the summer. Or take ViaRail from St. Patrick Station to Highway 407 Station. Transfer to the Ontario Northland bus here.

👉 I recommend this day trip to Muskoka

Distance from Toronto : 115 km

Drive Time: 1 hr 45 minutes

Paris, Ontario is a beautiful small town located in southwestern Ontario.

It is known for its picturesque setting along the Grand River as well as its many bridges which earned it the nickname “The Little Venice of Canada”.

Some of the best things to do in Paris include strolling through the charming downtown area, visiting one of the many art galleries or museums, or going for a hike or bike ride along the Grand River.

Don’t forget to try some of the delicious local food such as maple syrup, fresh produce, and craft beer.

I highly recommend a stop at Twisted Treats for a $4 ice cream the size of a small child, topped with the best peanut and fudge sauces in Ontario!

Toronto to Paris

🚗 Drive : Take the 401 west out of Toronto and then take exit 275 onto Highway 24 south towards Paris.

4. Toronto Islands

Distance from Toronto: 10 km

Drive Time: 20-30 min

The Toronto Islands are a group of small islands located just offshore from Downtown Toronto.

They are accessible by ferry and make for a great day trip or even a weekend getaway.

There are 3 main islands to explore which are Centre Island, Ward’s Island, and Hanlan’s Point.

There are plenty of things to do on the islands such as swimming at one of the many beaches, exploring the nature trails, or renting a kayak or canoe . You can also bring a picnic and sit in one of the lovely parks for the day.

Be wary of the beaches, as some are nude beaches (and many people don’t know the boundaries between them).

Kids will love visiting Centre Island to see Centreville, a cute amusement park.

Be sure to bring your camera as there are some great views of the Toronto skyline from the islands!

Toronto to the Toronto Islands

⛴️ Ferry: Take the ferry from Bay Street in Downtown Toronto to Centre Island. The ferry ride takes about 15 minutes.

🚖 Water Taxi: You can also take a water taxi from the Harbourfront to Hanlan’s Point. The ride takes about 10 minutes.

👉 This tour is my favourite in the Toronto Islands

5. Turkey Point on Lake Erie

Distance from Toronto : 160 km

Drive Time : 2 hrs

Turkey Point is a small town located on the shores of Lake Erie in southwestern Ontario.

It is a popular summer getaway for Torontonians due to its beautiful sandy beaches, clear blue water, and lovely sunsets.

There are also many great restaurants and cafes in the town centre.

Some of the best things to do in Turkey Point include swimming, sunbathing, kayaking, and windsurfing.

You can also visit one of the many parks or go for a walk along the beach.

Don’t forget to try the local ice cream!

Toronto to Turkey Point

🚗 Drive: Take the 401 west out of Toronto and then take exit 359 onto Highway 3 east towards Turkey Point.

Small Town & City Lover Toronto Day Trips

6. Stratford

Distance from Toronto: 150 km

Drive Time: 1 hr 30 min

Stratford is a small town located in southwestern Ontario, about two hours west of Toronto.

The town is most famous for being the home of the Stratford Festival, one of the largest theatre festivals in North America.

However, there is much more to Stratford than just theatre.

The town has a charming downtown area with many Victorian-era buildings and cute shops.

You can also visit one of the several parks, go for a walk or bike ride along the Avon River, or take a boat tour.

In the summer, you can cool off at the Splash Pad water park.

And in the winter, you can go ice skating at the Stratford Rotary Complex.

No matter what time of year you visit, there is always something to do in Stratford!

Toronto to Stratford

🚗 Drive : Take the 401 west out of Toronto and then take exit 268 onto Highway 7 towards Stratford.

🚐 Tour: You could also book a small-group or private day tour from Toronto. That way, you don’t have to worry about driving and can just enjoy the day.

🚇 Train : Take the VIA Rail from Union Station West towards Sarnia. Get off at the Stratford stop.

Distance from Toronto: 190 km

London is the largest city in southwestern Ontario and is about a two-hour drive from Toronto.

There is plenty to see and do in London, especially if you are a fan of history or art.

Some of the most popular attractions include the Royal Canadian Regiment Museum, the London Regional Children’s Museum, and the Banting House National Historic Site.

If you are looking for something more outdoorsy, you can visit one of the many parks or go for a walk or bike ride along the Thames River.

And in the winter, you can go skating at the Western Fair Sports Centre.

No matter what time of year you visit, there is always something to do in London!

Toronto to London

🚗 Drive: Take the 401 West out of Toronto. Follow signs for London.

🚇 Train : Take VIA Rail West to London from Union Station.

8. Kingston

Distance from Toronto: 260 km

Drive Time : 2.5 hrs

Kingston is located in southeastern Ontario on the shores of Lake Ontario. It’s about a 2.5 hour drive from Toronto and makes for a great day trip.

Kingston is well-known for its many museums, including the Kingston Penitentiary Museum, the Fort Henry National Historic Site, and the Museum of Health Care.

There are also plenty of opportunities to enjoy the outdoors here. You can go for a walk or bike ride along the waterfront, rent a canoe or kayak and explore the Thousand Islands, or go for a hike in one of the many parks.

And in the winter, you can go skating on the Outdoor Skating Rink at City Park.

Kingston is a common stop on Ontario road trips, as it’s halfway between Toronto and Ottawa.

Toronto to Kingston

🚗 Drive: Take the 401 East out of Toronto and take Exit 617 for Kingston 10. Continue on this road until you reach Kingston.

🚇 Train : Take VIA Rail East directly to Kingston.

9. Hamilton

Distance from Toronto: 70 km

Drive Time : 1 hour

Hamilton is a city located in southern Ontario. It’s about an hour drive from Toronto and makes for a great day trip.

The city is home to some excellent museums, including the Art Gallery of Hamilton, the Canadian Warplane Heritage Museum, and the Dundurn Castle.

Hamilton is also a great place to enjoy the outdoors. Some of the best places to go for a walk or hike include the Waterfront Trail, Webster’s Falls, and the Devil’s Punch Bowl.

The most popular hiking spot is Dundas Peak.

Toronto to Hamilton

🚗 Drive : Take the QEW towards Hamilton.

🚌 Bus : The Go Bus runs from Renforth Transitway Station or Square One in Mississauga to Main St. in Hamilton.

10. St. Jacob’s and the Farmers Market

Distance from Toronto: 120 km

Drive Time: 1 hour 15 minutes

St. Jacobs is a small town located in southern Ontario. It’s about an hour and fifteen minutes drive from Toronto and makes for a great day trip.

The town is home to the world-famous St. Jacobs Farmers Market. This market has been in operation for over 40 years and is one of the largest in Canada.

The market is open every Wednesday and Saturday from 7am to 3:30pm.

In addition to the market, St. Jacobs is also home to the Mennonite Heritage Village Museum. This museum is dedicated to preserving the history and culture of the Mennonite people.

Toronto to St. Jacobs

🚗 Drive: Take the Gardiner Expressway West. Follow signs to exit onto the 427. Exit to the 401 West. Exit onto Highway 8 towards Waterloo. Continue to Highway 7, then follow signs for Highway 85 North. Follow signs to St. Jacob’s and the market.

Distance from Toronto : 95 km

Drive Time: 1 hour

Guelph is a city located in southern Ontario. It’s about an hour’s drive from Toronto and makes for a great day trip.

The city is home to the McMaster Museum of Art, the Guelph Civic Museum, and the Church of Our Lady Immaculate.

Guelph is also a great place to enjoy the outdoors. Some of the best places to go for a walk or hike include the Royal City Park, the Eramosa River Park, and the Arboretum.

Toronto to Guelph

🚗 Drive : Take the 401 West out of Toronto and take exit 295 for Highway 6 North towards Guelph. Follow this road into Guelph.

🚌 Bus : From Renforth Station, you can take the Go Bus to the University of Guelph.

12. Peterborough

Distance from Toronto : 140 km

Drive Time : 1 hour 30 minutes

1.5 hours from Toronto is the city of Peterborough. This city is located in the Kawarthas, a region known for its many lakes and rivers.

The main attraction in Peterborough is The Liftlock, the world’s highest hydraulic boat lift. The Liftlock is located on the Trent-Severn Waterway and lifts.

1,500 metric tons of water 43 meters up in order to allow boats to pass through.

Definitely, a must-see!

Other attractions in Peterborough include the Art Gallery of Peterborough, the Petroglyphs Provincial Park, and the Fisherman’s Paradise.

If you’re looking for a short drive from Toronto, Peterborough is the perfect place for a day trip!

Toronto to Peterborough

🚗 Drive : Take the 401 east out of Toronto and take exit 437A for Highway 115/7 toward Lindsay/Peterborough. Follow this road into Peterborough.

🚇  Train: Take the Go Train to Oshawa Station. You will then need to transfer to a Go Bus. Take Bus 88 to get to the heart of Peterborough.

13. Kitchener Waterloo

Distance from Toronto: 110 km

Kitchener Waterloo is a region located in southern Ontario. It’s about an hour and fifteen minutes drive from Toronto.

This region is home to the Waterloo Region Museum, the Mennonite Heritage Village, and the Doon Heritage Village.

Kitchener Waterloo is also a great place to enjoy the outdoors. Some of the best places to go for a walk or hike include the Huron Natural Area, the Grand River Trail, and the Walter Bean Trail.

It’s also home to Waterloo University and Wilfred Laurier University.

This has fostered a large pub scene with some of the best bars outside of Toronto.

Toronto to Kitchener Waterloo

🚗 Drive : Take the 401 west out of Toronto and take exit 275 for Highway 6 North towards Guelph/Kitchener. Follow this road for about 35 minutes before taking the exit for Waterloo/St. Jacobs. Once you’re in Kitchener, follow the signs to the attractions you want to see.

🚌 Bus : Take the 40 Go Bus from Renforth Station to Hamilton. Transfer to the 25J Go Bus and take it to Weber St. E @ Queen St. N.

14. Brantford

Distance from Toronto: 105 km

Brantford is a city located in southwestern Ontario. It’s about a one hour drive from Toronto with lots of activities to check out.

The city is home to the Canadian Museum of Indigenous History, the Bell Homestead National Historic Site (home to the inventor of the telephone!), and the Brant County Museum.

Brantford is also a great place to enjoy the outdoors. Some of the best places to go for a walk or hike include the Grand River, the Happy Rolph’s Bird Sanctuary, and the Elora Gorge Conservation Area.

Brantford makes the perfect summer day trip from Toronto.

Toronto to Brantford

🚗 Drive : Take the 401 west out of Toronto and take exit 298 for Highway 403 towards Hamilton/Brantford. Follow this road into Brantford.

🚇 Train : VIA Rail runs a direct service from Union Station to Brantford (the 73 to Windsor).

Distance from Toronto: 60 km

Drive Time: 45 minutes

Milton is a town located in southern Ontario. It’s about a 45 minute drive from Toronto, past the airport.

The town is home to the Milton Museum, the Halton County Radial Railway Museum, and the Country Heritage Park.

Milton is also a great place to enjoy the outdoors. Some of the best places to go for a walk or hike include the Halton County Radial Railway, the Milton Heights Conservation Area, and the Bruce Trail.

Milton makes a great day trip from Toronto for anyone interested in history or the outdoors.

Toronto to Milton

🚗 Drive : Take the 401 west out of Toronto and take exit 322 for Guelph Line/Highway 25 towards Milton. Follow this road into Milton.

🚌 Bus : From the Union Bus Terminal, take the 21B Go Bus to Milton. This terminates at Milton Station.

16. The Kawarthas

Distance from Toronto: 140 km

Drive Time: 1.5 hours

The Kawarthas is a region located in central Ontario. It’s about a one-and-a-half-hour drive from Toronto and makes for a great day trip or weekend getaway.

The Kawarthas is home to the Kawartha Lakes, the Haliburton Highlands, and the Peterborough Petroglyphs Provincial Park.

The region is also a great place to enjoy the outdoors. Some of the best places to go for a walk or hike include the Kawartha Trans Canada Trail, the Lindsay Tract Conservation Area, and the Otonabee River Provincial Park.

The Kawarthas make a great day trip or weekend getaway from Toronto for anyone interested in nature or the outdoors.

Toronto to The Kawarthas

🚗 Drive: Take the 401 east out of Toronto and take exit 436 for Highway 28 towards Lindsay/Peterborough. Follow this road into The Kawarthas.

🚇  Train: Take the Go Train to Oshawa Station. You will then need to transfer to a Go Bus. Take Bus 88 to get to the heart of Peterborough. You will then need to connect via local buses within the Kawarthas.

Fergus is a town located in southern Ontario. It’s about a one-and-a-half-hour drive from Toronto and makes for a great day trip.

The town is home to the Earl Grey Golf Club, the Fergus Market, and the Fergus Falls.

Fergus is also a great place to enjoy the outdoors. Some of the best places to go for a walk or hike include the Guelph Radial Trail, the Elora Cataract Trailway, and the Grand River Conservation Authority.

Combine a trip to Fergus with a visit to Elora.

Arrive in August to see the Highland Games, which are a holdover of Fergus’ founding Scottish members.

Toronto to Fergus

🚗 Drive : Take the 401 West out of Toronto and take exit 275 for Highway 6 North towards Guelph/Kitchener. Follow this road into Fergus.

Hiking Day Trips Near Toronto

18. Algonquin Provincial Park

Distance from Toronto: 300 km

Drive Time: 3 hours

Algonquin Provincial Park is a large park located in central Ontario. It’s about a three hour drive from Toronto and makes for a great day trip or weekend getaway.

This is one of the best day trips from anywhere in Ontario!

The park is home to over 7,000 lakes, as well as numerous hiking trails. Some of the best hikes in the park include the Algonquin Lookout Trail, the Barron Canyon Trail, and the Booth’s Rock Trail.

Algonquin Provincial Park is a great place to see wildlife. The park is home to moose, deer, bears, wolves, and many other animals.

You can camp in the park or stay in one of the nearby towns, such as Huntsville or Dwight.

To break up the drive, consider a day trip from Toronto to Muskoka or Wasaga Beach before continuing on a weekend getaway to Algonquin Park in the summer.

Toronto to Algonquin Provincial Park

🚗 Drive : Take the 400 north out of Toronto and take exit 312 for Highway 11 North towards Barrie/Orillia. Follow this road into Algonquin Provincial Park.

🚐 Tour: A day trip via a small group tour like this allows you to see the best of Algonquin without being too exhausted to drive home.

19. Scarborough Bluffs

Distance from Toronto: 20 km

Drive Time: 30 minutes

The Scarborough Bluffs is a park located in the east end of Toronto. It’s about a half-hour drive from downtown Toronto and makes for a great day trip.

The park is home to over 15 km of hiking trails, as well as Bluffers Beach.

The park is a great place to see wildlife. The park is home to many birds, including bald eagles.

You can also go for a swim in the lake or relax on the beach.

I love starting a summer morning on a paddleboard beneath the limestone cliffs.

Toronto to Scarborough Bluffs

🚗 Drive : Take Eastern Avenue to Kingston Road, continue on Brimley Road South to Bluffers Park.

🚌 Bus : Take the Go Train from Union to Kennedy Station. Take the 175 TTC bus to Bluffer’s Park.

20. Lions Head Provincial Park

Drive Time: 4 hours

Lions Head Provincial Park is a park located in Bruce Peninsula National Park. It’s about a four-hour drive from Toronto and makes for a great day trip or weekend getaway.

The park is home to over 15 km of hiking trails, as well as the Lions Head Lighthouse.

Toronto to Lions Head Provincial Park

🚗 Drive: Take the Gardinery Expressway West to the Ontario 410 North. Exit onto the 401 West and continue onto the 410 North. Continue onto Highway 10 to Owen Sound. Follow to Ontario 6 North, following signs for Tobermory.

21. Thousand Island National Park

Distance from Toronto: 320 km

Thousand Island National Park is one of the most beautiful places in Ontario. It’s made up of over 20 islands and is a great spot for camping, hiking, canoeing, and fishing.

The park is also home to some of the best bird watching in the province. You can see bald eagles, ospreys, herons, and kingfishers, to name a few.

For a day trip, I would recommend taking a hike on one of the many trails in the park, and then spending some time exploring one of the islands by canoe or kayak.

Toronto to Thousand Island National Park

🚗 Drive : Thousand Island National Park is located on Highway 401, about 3 hours east of Toronto.

22. French River Provincial Park

Distance from Toronto: 325 km

Drive Time: 3.5 hours

If you’re looking for a day trip that’s a little off the beaten path, French River Provincial Park is the perfect place. The park is located in the heart of cottage country, and is a popular spot for canoeing, fishing, and camping.

The French River is one of the most popular canoeing routes in Ontario, and there are plenty of companies that offer canoe and kayak rentals.

For a day trip, I would recommend taking a scenic drive through the park, stopping at some of the lookout points, and then renting a canoe or kayak to explore the river.

Toronto to French River Provincial Park

🚗 Drive : French River Provincial Park is located on Highway 69, about 3.5 hours north of Toronto.

23. Spencer Gorge Conservation Area

Distance from Toronto: 75 km

Spencer Gorge Conservation Area is one of the best day trips from Toronto for nature lovers. The park is home to two waterfalls, and is a popular spot for hiking and picnicking.

The trails in Spencer Gorge are relatively easy, and there are plenty of places to stop and take in the views.

For a day trip, I would recommend hiking to the top of Tew’s Falls, and then spending some time exploring nearby Hamilton.

Toronto to Spencer Gorge Conservation Area

🚗 Drive: Spencer Gorge Conservation Area is located on Highway 403, about 1 hour west of Toronto.

🚌 Bus : The Go Bus runs from Renforth Transitway Station or Square One in Mississauga to Main St. in Hamilton. From there you can hike to the conservation area or cycle.

24. Killarney Provincial Park

Distance from Toronto: 275 km

Drive Time: 4.5 hours

Killarney Provincial Park is one of the most popular day trips (and multi-day trips) from Toronto, and for good reason. The park is located in cottage country, and is a popular spot for camping, canoeing, and hiking.

The park is also home to some of the best scenery in Ontario, with its rocky shores, clear waters, and lush vegetation.

For a day trip, I would recommend taking a hike to one of the many lookouts in the park, and then spending some time exploring the town of Killarney.

Toronto to Killarney Provincial Park

🚗 Drive : Killarney Provincial Park is located on Highway 400 North.

25. Craigleith Provincial Park

Distance from Toronto: 165 km

Drive Time: 2.5 hours

Craigleith Provincial Park is one of the best day trips from Toronto for hikers and nature lovers. The park is home to a variety of trails, ranging from easy to difficult. There are also plenty of places to stop and take in the views.

For a day trip, I would recommend taking a hike to one of the lookouts in the park, and then spending some time exploring the town of Collingwood.

Toronto to Craigleith Provincial Park

🚗 Drive: Craigleith Provincial Park is located on Highway 26, about 2.5 hours north of Toronto.

26. Killbear Provincial Park

Killbear is another longer day trip from Toronto, and may work better as a weekend trip.

The park is located in cottage country, and is a popular spot for camping, canoeing, and hiking.

For a day trip, I would recommend taking a hike to one of the lookouts in the park, and then spending some time exploring the town of Parry Sound.

Toronto to Killbear Provincial Park

🚗 Drive: Killbear Provincial Park is located on Highway 400, about 4 hours north of Toronto.

27. Petroglyphs Provincial Park

Distance from Toronto : 210 km

Drive Time : 2.5 hours

Petroglyphs Provincial Park is one of the best day trips from Toronto for history buffs and nature lovers. The park is home to over 500 Indigenous rock carvings, as well as a variety of hiking trails.

Toronto to Petroglyphs Provincial Park

🚗 Drive : Petroglyphs Provincial Park is located on Highway 407 East.

28. Cheltenham Badlands

Distance from Toronto: 65 km

The Cheltenham Badlands is one of the best day trips from Toronto for nature lovers and photographers. The Badlands is a small area of exposed red clay, which was formed over 12,000 years ago.

The Badlands is located in the Town of Caledon, and is a popular spot for hiking, picnicking, and photography.

Toronto to Cheltenham Badlands

🚗 Drive: Take the Gardiner to the 410 North. Follow to Hurontario Street in Caledon. Continue to Olde Base Line Road, and follow signs to the Badlands.

29. Rattlesnake Point Conservation Area

Distance from Toronto : 65 km

Rattlesnake Point is another great day trip from Toronto for nature lovers and photographers. The point is located in Milton, and offers stunning views of the Niagara Escarpment.

The point is also a popular spot for hiking, picnicking, and rock climbing.

30. Ferris Provincial Park

Distance from Toronto : 185 km

Drive Time : 2 hours

Ferris Provincial Park is a great day trip for those who want to escape the hustle and bustle of the city. The park is located in the town of Bancroft, and is popular for its hiking trails and scenic views.

For a day trip, I would recommend hiking to the top of Ferris Provincial Park. The hike is about 3 kilometers long and takes approximately 2 hours.

The views from the top are absolutely stunning, and you can see for miles. There are also a few other shorter trails that lead to lookout points.

31. Dundas Peak

Dundas Peak is one of the best day trips from Toronto for those who love hiking and photography. The peak is located in Hamilton, and offers stunning views of the city and the Niagara Escarpment.

The hike to the top of Dundas Peak is about 3 kilometers long and takes approximately 2 hours.

32. Kelso Conservation Area

Kelso Conservation Area is a great day trip for those who want to escape the city and enjoy some of nature. The conservation area is located in Milton, and offers hiking trails, a beach, and picnic areas.

Adventurous Day Trips From Toronto

33. eramosa karst caves.

Estimated time: 1 hr

The Eramosa Karst is a geological formation that includes over 600 caves and sinkholes. The caves are located in the city of Guelph, and many of them have been turned into walking trails.

If you are looking for an adventure, then exploring these caves is definitely for you!

34. Elora Gorge

Estimated time: 1 hr 30 min

The Elora Gorge is a popular spot for tubing, swimming, and hiking. The gorge is located in the town of Elora, and is a great place to spend a day in the summer.

People come from across Ontario to rent tubes and float down the rapids of the Gorge. Then they head to the Elora Mill for a lovely meal after their fun!

If you are looking to cool off on a hot day, then the Elora Gorge is the perfect day trip for you!

35. Grand River Rafting

Distance from Toronto: 115 km

Driving time: 1 hr 30 min

Grand River Rafting is a popular activity for those who love adventure. The company offers both half-day and full-day trips, depending on how much time you have.

The Grand River is located in the city of Kitchener, and is a great place to spend a day.

If you are looking to get wet and wild, then rafting down the Grand River is the perfect day trip for you!

36. Collingwood Suspension Bridge

Distance from Toronto: 145 km

Driving time : 1 hr 45 min

The Collingwood Suspension Bridge is a popular spot for hiking and photography. The bridge is located in the town of Collingwood, and is a great place to spend a day.

If you are looking for a scenic day trip, then the Collingwood suspension bridge climb is for you!

37. Hardwood Hills

Distance from Toronto: 285 km

Driving time: 3 hrs

Hardwood Hills is a popular spot for hiking, mountain biking, and skiing. The hills are located in the town of Barrie, and is a great place to spend a day on 2 wheels.

Best Winter Day Trips From Toronto

38. blue mountain village.

Distance from Toronto: 170 km

Driving time: 2 hrs

Blue Mountain Village is a popular spot for skiing, snowboarding, and shopping. The village is located in the town of Collingwood, and is a great place to spend a day in the winter.

Don’t forget to stop in at the Nordic Spa to warm up after a day on the slopes. The outdoor hot pools will help you and your muscles forget about falling off the chairlift four times in front of your friends.

If you are looking for a winter day trip, then Blue Mountain Village is the perfect place for you!

39. Horseshoe Valley

Distance from Toronto : 135 km

Driving time : 1 hr 30 min

Horseshoe Valley is a popular spot for skiing, snowboarding, and tubing. The valley is located in the town of Barrie, and is a great place to spend a day in the winter.

There are also several restaurants and bars in the area, so you can warm up with a drink after a day on the slopes.

If you are looking for a winter day trip, then Horseshoe Valley is the perfect place for you!

40. Ellicottville

Distance from Toronto : 240 km

Driving Time: 3 hrs

Ellicottville is a popular spot for skiing, snowboarding, and shopping. The town is located in the state of New York, and is a great place to spend a day in the winter.

The hills are always covered in snow, and the town is filled with quaint shops and restaurants.

If you are looking for a winter day trip, then Ellicottville is the perfect place for you!

Beach Day Trips Near Toronto

41. The Beaches Neighbourhood

Distance from Toronto : 14 km

Driving time: 30 min

The Beaches neighbourhood is a popular spot for swimming, sunbathing, and picnicking. The neighbourhood is located in the city of Toronto, and is a great place to spend a day in the summer.

There are also several restaurants and cafes in the area, including Tori’s Bakeshop which caters to all allergies.

If you are looking for a summer day trip, then The Beaches neighbourhood is the perfect place for you!

42. Grand Bend Beach

Distance from Toronto: 225 km

Grand Bend Beach is a popular spot for swimming, sunbathing, and surfing. The beach is located in the town of Grand Bend, and is a great place to spend a day in the summer.

There are also several restaurants and cafes in the area, as well as a boardwalk that is perfect for people watching.

If you are looking for a summer day trip, then Grand Bend Beach is the perfect place for you!

43. Sandbanks Provincial Park

Driving time: 2 hrs 30 min

Sandbanks Provincial Park is a popular spot for swimming, sunbathing, and hiking. The park is located in the town of Prince Edward County , and is a great place to spend a day in the summer.

There are also several campgrounds in the area, so you can make a weekend of it.

If you are looking for a summer day trip, then Sandbanks Provincial Park is the perfect place for you!

44. Georgian Bay

Distance from Toronto: 180 km

Georgian Bay is a great spot for swimming, sunbathing on sandy beaches, and sailing. The bay is located in the town of Midland.

45. Wasaga Beach

Wasaga Beach is a popular summertime destination for Toronto residents. The long sandy beach stretches for 14 km, making it the longest freshwater beach in the world.

Visitors can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, picnicking, and hiking along the Georgian Bay shoreline.

There are also several restaurants and cafes located nearby.

Cabins on the beach make this a great weekend trip as well as a day trip from Toronto.

46. Cobourg Beach

Cobourg Beach is located on Lake Ontario and offers a wide range of activities for visitors.

The beach is popular for swimming, sunbathing, and picnicking in the summer months.

There are also several walking trails nearby where you can enjoy views of the lake.

In the winter, the beach is a popular spot for ice fishing.

Wine Tasting One Day Trips From Toronto

47. Niagara-on-the-Lake

Distance from Toronto: 135 km

Niagara-on-the-Lake is one of the closest day trips from Toronto, and definitely one of the most popular.

It’s renowned for its wineries, Victorian architecture, and charming shops.

This picturesque town situated along the Niagara River is also a great place to try your hand at stand-up paddleboarding or kayaking .

There are dozens of wineries in Niagara-on-the-Lake, so you’ll definitely want to dedicate an entire day to exploring them. Many of the wineries offer free tastings, so it’s a great way to sample what the area has to offer without breaking the bank.

Be sure to stroll down Queen Street, which is lined with cute cafés, restaurants, and boutique shops.

And if you’re a theatre buff, you can catch a show at the Shaw Festival, which runs from April to October.

👉 This is my favourite half day winery tour!

48. Prince Edward County

Distance from Toronto: 205 km

Estimated time: 2 hrs

This is another great wine region that makes for a perfect day trip from Toronto. Prince Edward County is located on the shores of Lake Ontario and has become a popular getaway for city dwellers looking to escape the hustle and bustle.

The area is home to over 40 wineries, many of which offer free tastings. So if you’re a fan of wine, this is the place for you.

In addition to its wineries, Prince Edward County is also known for its beaches, art galleries, and local shops.

If you’re looking for a place to stay, there are a number of bed and breakfasts, hotels, and Airbnbs in the area.

49. Caledon

Estimated time: 1 hour

Caledon is a small town located in the headwaters of the Credit River. It’s a great place for a day trip if you’re looking to get out of the city and explore the countryside.

There are a number of cideries in Caledon, making it the perfect place to go for a cider-tasting tour. The Spirit Tree Estate Cidery is one of the most popular and offers free tastings of their award-winning ciders.

Caledon is also home to a number of farms, so be sure to stop by one of the roadside stands to pick up some fresh fruits and vegetables.

Day Trips From Toronto With Kids

50. african lion safari.

Distance from Toronto: 90 km

Driving time: 1 hr 20 min

The African Lion Safari is a popular day trip destination for families with young children.

The park is home to over 1,000 animals, including lions, tigers, giraffes, and elephants.

Visitors can take a guided tour through the park on a safari bus or go on a self-guided tour in their own vehicle.

There are also a number of shows and animal encounters that take place throughout the day.

51. Canada’s Wonderland

Distance from Toronto: 45 km

Driving time: 45 mins

Wonderland is Toronto’s largest amusement park and a great place to take the kids for a day of fun.

The park has over 200 rides and attractions, including roller coasters, water slides, and live shows.

And if that’s not enough to keep the kids entertained, there’s also a 20-acre water park, Splash Works, that’s sure to make a splash.

Shopping Day Trips Near Toronto

52. aberfoyle antique market.

Driving time : 1 hr

Aberfoyle Antique Market is a popular day trip destination for antique lovers and bargain hunters.

The market is located in an old wool mill and has over 150 vendors selling everything from furniture to vintage clothing.

53. Buffalo (New York)

Distance from Toronto: 160 km

Just a short drive from Toronto is the city of Buffalo, New York. This American city is a great place to go for a day of shopping, as it has a number of large malls and outlet stores.

If you’re looking for designer brands at a fraction of the price, be sure to check out the Fashion Outlets of Niagara Falls.

And if you’re looking for a more unique shopping experience, head to Elmwood Village, where you’ll find a number of local shops and boutiques.

Map of One Day Trips From Toronto

How many days do I need in Toronto?

You could easily spend a week in Toronto and still not see everything the city has to offer.

However, if you only have a few days, I suggest spending at least two days exploring the downtown core and its attractions and then taking a day trip or two to explore some of the other great places nearby.

When are the best times to visit Canada?

The best time to visit Canada depends on what you’re looking to do.

If you want to experience all that the country has to offer, I recommend visiting in the summer or fall .

However, if you’re looking for excellent skiing, winter can be a great time to visit as well.

Best Spring Day Trips From Toronto

Spring is a great time to visit wineries in Niagara-on-the-Lake, check out theatre in Stratford, or head to Paris for some lovely hiking near Toronto.

Best Summer Day Trips From Toronto

Summer is the perfect time to visit the beach in Wasaga Beach Provincial Park, go hiking in Algonquin Provincial Park, or take a dip in the pool at Blue Mountain Resort.

How to take day trips from Toronto without a car?

There are a number of ways to take day trips from Toronto without a car. You can take the GO Train, which offers service to many of the destinations on this list. You can also take the Greyhound bus or use ride-sharing services like Uber or Lyft.

Or consider renting a car to allow yourself more freedom from bus schedules.

Related Posts:

• How to Get From Toronto to Niagara Falls: 7 Best Ways for an Epic Day Trip
• 21 Best Road Trips in Ontario from Toronto: Unforgettable Places You Need to See
• 15 Best Hotels in Toronto with Private Hot Tubs
• The Best Toronto Food Tours: Reviews of the Top 10 for Travellers
• 25 Jaw-Dropping Things to Do Tobermory, Ontario

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Canada Travel Planning Guide

🚑  Should I buy Canada travel insurance?

100% YES!  — Canada has “free” healthcare but it’s only for citizens! Foreigners visiting need travel insurance in case anything happens on their visit. I recommend World Nomads – starting at just $5 a day!

💧 Can you drink the water in Canada?

Yes  — In all major cities in Canada, you can drink the tap water. There are very few, rural areas that you can’t. However, you should never drink river or lake water anywhere in the country! I recommend a Brita Water Bottle for long hikes and backcountry camping to stay safe and hydrated.

🚙💨  Is it safe to rent a car in Canada?

Yes  — Renting a car is a necessity in most of Canada! If you want to go on road trips or adventures outside of the major cities, you’ll need to rent a car. ( Read more )

📲  Will my phone work in Canada?

Maybe  — Some American companies work in Canada, but many will not. If your phone doesn’t work in Canada, I recommend getting a Canadian SIM card so you can get around and stay in contact with loved ones. We don’t have a lot of free WIFI in Canada, so you’ll need your phone for maps.

🏩  What’s the best way to book my Canada accommodations?

My go-to for Canadian hotels is Booking.com . For hostels, I use Hostel World . If you want a home-y feeling, check out VRBO (which is cheaper and safer than Airbnb).

Or get free accommodations with Trusted Housesitters!

✈️  What’s the best site to buy Canada flights?

For finding cheap Canadian flights, I recommend  Skyscanner .

🎫  Do I need a visa for Canada?

Likely Not  — US, UK, and EU passport holders don’t need Canadian visas. However, some other countries do ( check here! ). And if you plan to stay for more than 4 weeks (an average tourist visa length), you will need to look into visas to live in Canada.

Nina Clapperton is the founder of Nina Out and About. She has lived in 18 countries in the past 10 years, explored more than 30 countries, and has done most of it solo. A Canadian native, she also shares her favourite things to do in the True North. She helps over 100,000 people per month plan their expat adventures and Canadian trips.

Want to move abroad, but don’t know how to start?

Get an expert’s tips & tricks, pick which country to move to – and do it.

17 Awesome Day Trips From Toronto (+ How to Get There)

Links in this article may earn us a little money if you book/ order stuff. More here

Check Out These Day Trips From Toronto – Told By Our Local!

If you want to explore outside of Toronto – and/or you’re short one time – a day trip around southwestern Ontario is a great idea. This area of the province is packed with day trip ideas that have something to offer you in every season (except beaches in winter, obviously).

Eric would know – he grew up north of Toronto (near Barrie) and spent lots of time driving around Ontario for work once upon a time. Recently, and with Lisa, we’ve played tourist quite a bit. Now that we call the “Greater Golden Horseshoe” home once again, it’s an area we know quite well!

While it’s true that many Toronto day trips are best done with a car , Ontario transit is improving so we’ll tell you about all the ways to get somewhere whether that be by car, bus, train, or tour!

From classic small towns like Elora or Niagara-on-the-Lake to attractions like Niagara Falls and plenty of beaches, here is our list of great day trips from Toronto in both summer and winter!

Popular Toronto Day Tours

• Niagara Falls Day Tour from Toronto (w/ Optional Boat Cruise)
• Day Tour to Niagara on the Lake & Niagara Falls
• Bruce Peninsula National Park & Tobermory Day Trip

Table of Contents

Niagara Falls

Address for Table Rock Welcome Centre: 6650 Niagara Pkwy, Niagara Falls, ON, Canada

Did you know one of the top natural attractions in the world is a day trip from Toronto? Honestly, you probably did – but it’s good to mention it again anyway!

Niagara Falls is one of the best places to visit in Ontario and a popular sightseeing attraction in all of Canada – and for good reason!

Just so we are clear: Niagara Falls, Ontario is a city in Canada while Niagara Falls, New York is the city in the United States just across the river from it – and “Niagara Falls” is also the name of the three waterfalls that people come to see. This includes:

• Horseshoe Falls also known as the “Canadian Falls” is the biggest one people think of first
• American Falls is the name of a smaller waterfall on the American side (also beautiful)
• Bridal Veil Falls is the smallest one right beside the American Falls!

In any case, a visit to the Niagara Falls region is a great idea. There are lots of great attractions that have to do with the Falls themselves like: the famous Hornblower Boat Cruise , Journey Behind the Falls , Skylon Observation Tower , and much more.

There are even fireworks each evening in the summer, and the Falls are lit up every night all year round for you to enjoy. In winter, the Festival of Lights means Friday and Saturday Fireworks from November to early January!

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The downtown core of the city – located around Clifton Hill – is loaded with restaurants, casinos, museums, games, and attractions for the whole family like the Niagara Skywheel, Dinosaur Adventure Golf, and many, many more.

North of the main falls area along the Niagara River, there are other natural attractions like the Niagara Whirlpool Jet Boat Tours , the White Water Walk , the Whirlpool Aero Car , The Botanical Gardens + Butterfly Conservatory , and more.

In short, you’d have plenty to do and see in Niagara Falls to fill up a day trip. Because Niagara Falls is so popular (especially in the summertime), it would be a good idea to book tickets for top activities ahead of time to make it easier for yourself.

You can start your visit at the Welcome Centre – it’s right at the edge of Horseshoe Falls.

We’ve also written extensive guides on visiting Niagara Falls:

• Things to Do and See in Niagara Falls, Canada
• How to Get to Niagara Falls from Toronto – More Detailed
• Where to Stay in Niagara Falls (just in case you decide to stay over)!

Toronto to Niagara Falls By Car

Niagara Falls isn’t that far from Toronto – it’s just around the end of Lake Ontario to the southeast. That said, the driving distance is around 130 kilometres and might take as little as 1 hour and 30 minutes.

The most direct/popular route is to hop on the Queen Elizabeth Way (QEW)/403 towards Hamilton but you could also take a more scenic route on Highway 81 through areas like Beamsville.

Once you get closer to the Falls on the QEW, follow signs and exit onto ON-420/ Niagara Veterans Memorial Highway East. You can then find parking near the Falls for a high price (but convenient) or find a cheaper lot (but have to walk a bit).

HOWEVER, if you are driving you have to account for traffic in and out of Toronto and through Hamilton. During morning and afternoon commuter times, you might expect to add on 30 minutes to an extra 2 hours of driving time.

Toronto to Niagara Falls By Train

If you want to take the train, you have two options which can be limited depending on the time of year: the GO Train and the ViaRail. Both trains leave from Toronto Union Station in downtown Toronto.

Address of Union Station: 65 Front St W, Toronto, ON

As of early 2024, the GO Train from Toronto to Niagara Falls Station now makes daily trips (not just weekend or seasonal). This new Toronto to Niagara Falls GO train schedule makes the GO train much more doable and convenient as a viable option for a day trip.

The ViaRail train also leaves from Toronto Union Station but only runs once per day in the morning taking about 2 hours to get to Niagara Falls. There is also one return ViaRail train each day. You can  check the ViaRail website  for schedules and details.

Address for Go/ViaRail Station: 4267 Bridge Street, Niagara Falls, ON

Both trains arrive at the same station in Niagara Falls located north of the main Falls area. You can hop on the WEGO bus (now operates year-round), call a cab, or just walk – it’s a nice walk along the river (about 25 minutes) to the Falls!

Toronto to Niagara Falls By Bus

For buses direct to Niagara Falls from Toronto, you have two options: Megabus or FlixBus.

The Megabus and the FlixBus now leave from the new Union Station Bus Terminal located right downtown beside Union Station (the central train station). It’s at the corner of Bay St & Lakeshore Blvd. on the 2nd floor.

Address of Union Bus Terminal Downtown: 81 Bay St, Toronto, ON

Megabus and Flixbus have numerous daily departures for trips that take about 2 hours and good fares (approximately 20 CAD one way). You can check here on the  Megabus website and here for the FlixBus website for their schedules to Niagara Falls.

Once you arrive in Niagara Falls, buses get into the bus station in Niagara Falls which is right across from the train station.

Address of Niagara Falls Bus Terminal: 4555 Erie Ave, Niagara Falls, ON

Toronto to Niagara Falls Tour

Another way to get to Niagara Falls that is easy and takes the stress out of the logistics and traffic is by hopping on a shuttle or tour.

Tours are also a good cost-effective way to see the Falls without having added expenses like daily parking. Luckily for you, Niagara Falls is very popular so there are many that you can choose from!

Before you book a tour, definitely look into the itinerary – some tours are just for Niagara Falls while others give you free time/wine tastings in Niagara on the Lake (mentioned below).

In any case, tours are a good way to sit back and relax while a guide takes you to the best experiences and sights!

• This Niagara Day tour from Toronto is popular and includes different activities at Niagara Falls
• This popular day tour from Toronto to Niagara Falls includes a stop in Niagara-on-the-Lake (another great spot for a day trip – read the next section!).

Niagara-on-the-Lake

Address for Downtown NOTL: 6 Picton St, Niagara-on-the-Lake, ON L0S 1J0, Canada

If you want to explore Ontario’s premier wine region, you have to check out Niagara on the Lake.

Yes, you COULD visit Niagara-on-the-Lake (NOTL) when you visit Niagara Falls – but you could just as easily make either of them their own day trip since there is enough to explore.

Niagara-on-the-Lake is both a region and also a lovely little town in the region. Think of it as the capital of the area. This historic town is full of charm – shops, restaurants, historic sites, waterfront parks, and more.

That said, the region is well-known in Canada for its wine. NOTL is a fertile area with a unique climate that is shaped by the Niagara Escarpment. As such, there are well over 90 wineries in the Niagara Region – many of which are in Niagara on the Lake.

Niagara-on-the-Lake is also one of the few places in the world that can produce Ice Wine – a sweet wine that is harvested from frozen grapes!

In any case, we would recommend a day in NOTL – the region has loads to check out on its own and it’s beautiful.

We did a wine tour of the region from Niagara Falls but you can sign up for a tour once you get to town. You can also do a self-guided tour which is easy when you have a winery map!

We wrote an article about some of our favourite wineries in Niagara on the Lake if you are interested in scouting out a few before you go!

• Our Detailed Guide on Things to Do in Niagara on the Lake
• Niagara-on-the-Lake Wine Tours – Our Awesome Day Tasting!
• Our Niagara on the Lake Accommodation Guide – Just in case!

Toronto to Niagara-on-the-Lake By Car

The best (and only) way to get to Niagara-on-the-Lake (the town) -and to get around the whole region once there – is with a car.

Niagara-on-the-Lake is located about 20/25 minutes north of Niagara Falls so you drive there the same way – on the QEW/403 highway towards Hamilton.

Once you get close, you can get off in St. Catharines or in Glendale and follow signs into the region (usually via Highway 55 which runs through the whole region) directly to the town of Niagara-on-the-Lake.

The drive will take about 1 hour and 30 minutes in total. You’ll find paid parking downtown NOTL – and free (sneaky) parking near the Fort if you don’t mind a bit of a walk!

Toronto to Niagara-on-the-Lake By Train

There is no direct train from Toronto to Niagara-on-the-Lake (the town). You can get to “Niagara College” which is a campus IN Niagara-on-the-Lake if you train to St. Catharines but NOT close to the main old town.

Toronto to Niagara-on-the-Lake By Bus

You also can’t get to the town of Niagara-on-the-Lake by bus right from Toronto. You’d have to take a Megabus to St. Catharines and then take regional buses into the region (not super easy for a day trip).

The other option is to get to the Niagara Falls bus station (mentioned above in Niagara Falls) and then take the WEGO NOTL route (only in the summer) or take a taxi (about 25 minutes) from the bus station to NOTL.

Toronto to Niagara-on-the-Lake Tour

Since a car is the only way to get there for a single-day trip, you could also look into a tour to get there and back without hassle.

A tour is also nice because then you have a designated driver!

• A classic Day Trip from Toronto to Niagara on the Lake (includes stops in Niagara Falls)
• Another Day Tour from Toronto to Niagara Falls which includes a stop in Niagara-on-the-Lake.

Toronto Islands

Address for Jack Layton Ferry Terminal: 9 Queens Quay W, Toronto, ON M5J 2H3, Canada

If you want to get out of the city for a day – but don’t want to go too far at all, you can head across the lake to Toronto Islands!

“The Island” is made up of 15 large and small islands that are connected by bridges or walkways. It’s the largest car-free neighbourhood in any city in North America! The Islands are a popular escape in most seasons – you can even visit in the winter.

There are many attractions (like Centreville Amusement Park ), beaches (there’s even one clothing option), smaller parks, and green spaces for picnics, biking paths, the opportunity for boat rentals, and more! There are also a handful of cafes, bars, and restaurants around the island.

We visited the Islands this past summer and loved it. We took the ferry from downtown (more on that right below).

Once there, we went to the beach, walked almost the whole length, got a bite to eat, and came home after a long day just enjoying the slower pace compared to being in the big city!

Believe it or not – people do live on the island. Since there are no cars, a bike is a very popular way to get around. You’ll find bike rentals everywhere.

Our Tip: Check out this Island Bike Tour With a Local to make the most of your time on the island!

Toronto to Toronto Islands By Car

It’s a car-free set of islands. You can’t drive there nor can you drive on the Islands, silly.

Toronto to Toronto Islands By Ferry/Water Taxi

To get to the Island, you have to go by boat but you have two options: The official ferry or a private water taxi. We bought a ticket for the ferry.

Three ferry routes leave from the same spot (Jack Layton Ferry Terminal) in downtown Toronto – but the ferries run to three separate locations on the Island: Centre Island, Hanlan’s Island, and Ward’s Island.

The ferry only takes like 13 minutes to cross but loading and unloading can take a few extra (especially in summer).

The nice thing is that when you buy a ticket, it includes the price for a return ticket. So you show a ticket to get on the ferry but to come home from the Island you just get on any ferry you like.

For example, we took the first ferry to Centre Island and came home from Ward’s Island Ferry Dock. No problem. You can buy a Ferry Ticket online (which we recommend because the lineup to buy in-person was massive in the summer).

The other option to get to the island is to hop on a private water taxi. Because they are smaller to load and faster to cross, they are a bit more expensive than the regular ferry ticket – but generally worth it if you don’t like long lines.

There are a few companies if you want to shop around at the pier – or you can check out Toronto Harbour Tours for this.

Location for Mill Street W Intersection

If it’s a small-town vibe you’re after, then heading for Elora, Ontario is the day trip for you. Located to the northwest of Toronto (kind of between Guelph, Arthur, and Kitchener), this picturesque spot is consistently considered one of Ontario’s prettiest small towns.

We visited on an extended weekend in the fall (October) and the colours were amazing. Of course, there is so much to see and do in any season – we wrote a massive guide on visiting Elora !

Elora is known for a few things: the mighty Grand River running through it and creating an impressive gorge, the historic old architecture, local shops and restaurants, and loads of walking trails in the area.

Right on the water, the impressive Elora Mill Hotel and Spa sits in an old mill building – we stayed there and it was beautiful. Nearby, Victoria Park offers views of the Elora Gorge, the waterfall, and the iconic “Tooth of Time” rock formation in the river.

As for the town, we loved our dinner and drink stop at Elora Brewing Company and took to the walking trails along the river and beyond (we did a big loop towards Fergus and back).

In the summer, you can go river tubing at Elora Gorge Conservation Area (very popular) and swim at the Elora Quarry (very busy).

Read More: Check Out Great Inns in Ontario !

Toronto to Elora By Car

Driving from Toronto to Elora takes about 2 hours (plus or minus 15 with or without traffic) depending on where you leave from.

The best way is the 401 Westbound towards Guelph, then take the exit for Highway 6 (towards/through Guelph).

If you stay on Highway 6 after Guelph, you’ll end up in the nearby town of Fergus, so you’ll need to adjust your course slightly. Fergus is only 5-10 minutes up the river driving from Elora. The signs are pretty clear once you’re in the region.

Toronto to Elora by Transit/Shuttle

The only option to not drive to Elora is to take the ParkBus – a private company that runs day trip shuttles from Toronto to parks, conservation areas, and hiking trails around Ontario.

They run trips to both Elora Gorge Conservation and the Elora Quarry (both in the warmer months) which you can check out on the ParkBus destinations page .

Hamilton Area Waterfalls

Address for Albion Falls: 885 Mountain Brow Blvd, Hamilton, ON, Canada

It’s been said that Hamilton, Ontario is the waterfall capital of the world – and we would believe it!

The region just west of Toronto on Lake Ontario is home to well over 100 naturally occurring waterfalls. The number of waterfalls is thanks to the Niagara Escarpment that runs through southwestern Ontario (and beyond).

You can visit Hamilton – the city – but we’d suggest checking out the conservation areas, parks, trails, and waterfalls in the region all around the Hamilton area as well.

We spent a day physically driving around the area chasing waterfalls and going for hikes in conservation areas – and it was awesome!

Read More: Our Guide to Exploring Hamilton Waterfalls

If you don’t want to read our whole post on waterfalls – linked right above – here are the quick notes to get you started. We explored a few popular waterfalls and a few smaller ones to get a variety.

This included Albion Falls, Buttermilk Falls, Devil’s Punchbowl out in Stoney Creek, and the classic Tiffany Falls.

We didn’t get to explore the amazing view from Dundas Peak with Webster Falls nearby. You can also explore Eramosa Karst Conservation Area (with caves) close to Albion.

If you need a great view and hike, Albion Falls is a great option with parking to go on a short hike (about 15 minutes) to Buttermilk Falls. It’s easy terrain – just watch the path in places because it’s a steep drop!

We also really liked Felker’s Falls in Felker’s Falls Conservation Area. You park in a small residential neighbourhood and walk into the small park to get a set of falls all to yourself.

The trails were nice, too – very dense bush even though the car was just a few hundred metres away!

Toronto to Hamilton Waterfalls By Car

Since this day trip is to “explore the waterfalls around Hamilton” it is a must that you have a car.

We spent a whole day driving around the countryside from fall to fall and had a great time – and we only saw a fraction of the waterfalls/conservation areas.

That said, you can get to Hamilton the same way you go to Niagara Falls – on the QEW/403 towards Hamilton. The drive from Toronto to downtown takes about an hour to 1 hour 30 minutes (or a little more) with traffic.

Once you arrive, you might want to know which waterfalls you want to head for and have a bit of a plan.

For example, Dundas, Downtown Hamilton, and Stoney Creek are three very different areas so you shouldn’t just “go for it” or else you’ll waste time crisscrossing your path! The good news: most of the park areas have parking lots (some free, some paid).

Toronto to Hamilton By Train/Bus

You certainly can get to Hamilton by GO Bus from Toronto Union Station Bus Terminal. The ride takes about 50 minutes to get to downtown Hamilton. You can find more information on prices and routes with GO Transit here .

That said, once you get to Hamilton – for a day trip – it would be hard to then get to enough waterfalls using other public transit to make the trip possible. This is a day trip that just requires a car to complete in a worthwhile way.

Address for Cheltenham Badlands: 1739 Olde Base Line Road, Caledon, ON L7C  0K6

Caledon is one of those things on this list that you’ll have to read more into because we cover a lot when we say “visit Caledon”.

Caledon is a rural town that is located northwest of Toronto – and it is divided into several small little villages and areas.

There’s a tiny “downtown” in Caledon Village which you can check out, but the reason to head for the area is for the hikes and the nature.

Caledon is home to some top conservation areas (in the Credit Valley) with waterfalls, walking trails, fishing, and geological attractions unlike anywhere in Ontario. There are MANY but we will focus on three:

One of the most popular parks to check out is Belfountain Conservation Area . It’s popular for day-trippers because there’s a lovely bridge that overlooks a dam/waterfall.

We went for a hike there and it was beautiful. There is even a picnic place for families. If you head for Belfountain, be sure to stop for a coffee and treat at Higher Ground Café !

Another very popular feature of the Caledon area is Forks of the Credit Provincial Park . This small Provincial Park is day-use only and packed with hiking trails, bridges, and a waterfall.

The Bruce Trail and Trans Canada Trail – as well as the Park’s trails- all run through this varied, rolling landscape. We had a great visit and even made our Forks of the Credit guide with a sample hiking itinerary (with detailed photos)!

The last feature of the area that you can check out is the Cheltenham Badlands . As the name suggests, this rock formation resembles the red, rocky Badlands of Utah or Alberta.

The eroding earth is very cool to see up close (but you can’t walk on it, which is good because that protects it from human activity).

They redid the visitor area so that you can now read all about the history, hit the hiking trails, and have a place to park that you must pay for and off the main road. Our advice is to go early since the lot is small!

Toronto to Caledon By Car

Spoiler: This Caledon “explorer’s day trip” is best/only done with a car. Caledon isn’t too far from Toronto – but where you are starting will greatly dictate your route. Generally speaking, Caledon is to the northwest of Toronto past Brampton.

Once you get out of Toronto in the west end, you can take any of Highway 10, Dixie Road, or Airport Road northwest into the area. The driving distance is about 60 km and will take 45 minutes or longer (like an hour) with traffic.

Toronto to Caledon By Bus

Honestly, it would be hard to maximize your time in the area if you travelled by bus to Caledon. That said, you could get to Brampton GO Station via bus or train from Union and then take bus 37 towards Orangeville and get off in Caledon Village.

You’d have a hard time from there, though. Maybe pay for a taxi to take you around?

Collingwood + Blue Mountain

Address for Blue Mountain Resort: 190 Gord Canning Dr, The Blue Mountains, ON L9Y 1C2, Canada

Summer or winter, it doesn’t matter – it’s always a good idea to head up to Collingwood and the Blue Mountains on a day trip!

The town of Collingwood – located on the shores of southern Georgian Bay – is small with a nice walkable downtown area full of shops and places to eat. The nearby Millennium Overlook Park or the Collingwood Museum are other places to visit!

We loved Duncan’s Cafe for brunch/lunch – but there are many more places to try!

You have to drive through Collingwood to get to the actual “Blue Mountains” which are a raised geological area. There, you’ll find Blue Mountain Resort – arguably the best summer/winter resort in the province.

From top slopes in the winter to dozens of activities in the summer, it’s a popular spot to check out. We went for a visit to The Village last summer (Lisa’s first time) and it was an absolute hub of activity.

Another place you can check out if you’re heading to this area of the province is the Scandinave Spa at Blue Mountain . This VERY popular spa experience is the perfect way to unwind (especially in the winter) with outdoor baths, waterfalls, massages, fire pits, and more.

Toronto to Collingwood By Car

By far the easiest way to get to Collingwood is by car. Collingwood is located to the north of Toronto on the south shore of Georgian Bay (getting into Ontario cottage country) about 2 hours and 20 minutes driving (about 160 km driving distance).

The best route is very similar to how you drive to Caledon – through Brampton, Orangeville (Highway 10), and then just follow County Road 124 the rest of the way.

The other route is up Highway 400 (past Barrie) but then heads west on Horseshoe Valley Road until it becomes Highway 26.

Highway 26 will take you right through Stayner, downtown Collingwood, and Blue Mountain. This route also takes longer because traffic is usually awful on the 400.

Once you arrive in Collingwood, there’s plenty of street parking. If you are heading for Blue Mountain, you will find that they have large parking lots, too.

Toronto to Collingwood By Bus/Shuttle

You can get to Collingwood in the winter season by private tour/shuttle services that run from Toronto to Collingwood. Check out AU Coach Tours with downtown Toronto pick-ups to Blue Mountain.

Wasaga Beach

Address for Nancy Island: 119 Mosley St, Wasaga Beach, ON L9Z 2X1, Canada

Speaking of southern Georgian Bay, how about a day at the beach? How about a day at the longest freshwater beach in the world?! Well, that’s Wasaga Beach for you.

Located in the town of Wasaga Beach north of the city (just east of Collingwood), the stretch of shoreline offers visitors 14 kilometres of sandy beach and summer and winter fun.

Officially Wasaga Beach Provincial Park , the beach is Blue Flag certified (that means it’s really good/safe for world standards) and also includes walking and cross-country ski trails in the winter!

Along the waterfront (in the summer), there are a TON (seriously, very many) restaurants, bars, stores, and shops – you name it, it’s there! The area also has a bit of natural and war history to check out at Nancy Island Historic Site.

Toronto to Wasaga Beach By Car

Once again, for a day trip, the best/only option to get to Wasaga Beach is by car. The town and beach are located about a 2-hour drive north of Toronto with a driving distance of about 150 kilometres.

The route is the same way you would head to Collingwood but instead head slightly east instead of west when you reach Georgian Bay.

You can also go up Highway 400, get off in Barrie, and snake along smaller highways and county roads to get there.

Once you get there, you’ll find ample parking. Some lots and spots are 5 dollars close to the beach. You can also park inside the official park – but it’s 3 or 4 times that price.

Prince Edward County

Address for Beacon Bike and Brew: 188 Picton Main St, Picton, ON K0K 2T0, Canada

This is probably one of the farthest day trips we have on the list, but a day trip to Prince Edward County is worth it!

This “island-like” region (it’s technically a peninsula) extends into Lake Ontario. It’s a great region with unique geography from sandy dunes to fertile land for wine grapes!

As such, PEC – also often called “The County” – is known as another of Ontario’s wine regions! We really like PEC and we’ve spent quite a bit of time exploring the whole region.

That said, there are lots of things to see and do in Prince Edward County . The main towns – Picton and Wellington – offer you shops, cafes (like Beacon Bike and Brew ), restaurants, and more.

You can head for the beach or hike the massive dunes when exploring Sandbanks Provincial Park . It’s a great place in Ontario if you want to try day camping !

Read More: Our Guide to Discovering Sandbanks Provincial Park (+Dunes Trail)

However, the region is best known for its wineries. There are close to 40 wineries – bigger operations and smaller family-run ones. Check out Huff Estates or Sandbanks Estate Winery – famous for their Baco Noir.

We have a post on the best wineries in Prince Edward County (it’s a work in progress as we visit more)!

There are also lots of breweries like Parson’s Brewing Company and Lake on the Mountain Brewing Co . (another of our favourites).

You also can’t forget about The County Cider Company ! We really can’t do the area justice – you have to go and see for yourself. Just remember if you have alcoholic beverages, you shouldn’t be driving (and have a designated driver).

Toronto to Prince Edward County By Car

The best (and only) way to get to and get around the County is by car. There’s just no way around it. The drive from Toronto is pretty easy – just take Highway 401 east, get off in Belleville (or exit #522), and head south into the County.

To head right to Picton, the drive will be about 2 hours and 30 minutes (210 km driving distance) but once you’re there you have the whole region to explore!

Parking will vary but all wineries and breweries have parking plus there’s ample street parking in Picton, Wellington, etc.

Alternatively, if you have a group of people you could look into renting a limo or hiring a taxi for a whole day. If you split the cost, it would make for a more manageable trip – plus then you have a designated driver secured all day!

Toronto to Prince Edward County By Train

You can’t travel to Prince Edward County by train. The best you could do is to get to Belleville on the ViaRail.

Then you’d have to rent a car or get a taxi to get into the County – even then you’d need a direction like Picton or a specific winery.

Barrie + Oro-Medonte

Address for Flying Monkeys Brewery: 107 Dunlop St E, Barrie, ON L4M 1A6, Canada

If you want to spend a day at the beach/another lovely little waterfront, then you should head for Barrie! Barrie is a relatively large city located north of Toronto up on the shores of Lake Simcoe at Kempenfelt Bay.

As a day trip, you wouldn’t need to visit most of the city (it sprawls out quite a bit). You would be perfectly fine heading for the small downtown area by the waterfront (Dunlop Street East).

Here, you’ll find a few shops, restaurants, pubs ( Donaleigh’s Irish Public House ), and even a great brewery – Flying Monkeys – with a nice patio.

At the waterfront, there are numerous parks with walking trails that run for kilometres. Heritage Park is close to downtown and if you walk south, you can find the main one – Centennial Park and Centennial Beach.

If you want to get out on the water, you can rent a canoe, kayak, or paddleboard from the small stands along the shoreline. You can even check out the Spirit Catcher sculpture – and there are stalls for ice cream, too!

If you are heading up to Barrie, you might also be interested in heading a bit further north. Just a bit farther up the highway, you’ll find the township of Oro-Medonte and more for a variety of the areas ski hills/recreation areas!

Specifically, check out Hardwood Hills Ski and Bike – mountain biking, hiking, and disc golf in summer and cross-country skiing in winter.

You might also try Snow Valley Resort , Horseshoe Resort , or Mount St. Louis Moonstone for winter skiing/tubing and some summer activities (Horseshoe is open in summer).

• How to Get to Barrie From Toronto – In Detail
• 25 Things to Do and See in Barrie !

Toronto to Barrie By Car

Barrie is located basically due north of Toronto. As such, the easiest way to get from Toronto to Barrie is by car.

The driving distance is about 100 km and it’ll take about one hour and 30 minutes (depending on traffic) on Highway 400 (the major highway you take all the way there).

As you get close to Barrie, get off at Bayfield Street to head for downtown and the waterfront. There is lots of paid parking once you get downtown or to the waterfront.

If you want to head for any of the ski hills north of the city mentioned above, you need a car. Many are accessible past Barrie on Highway 400 or Highway 11 northbound.

Toronto to Barrie By Train

Depending on the time of day, you could take the GO Train to Barrie but they usually only run at night in this direction (to bring commuters home).

So, to go to Barrie in the morning, you’ll need to take the GO Bus OR a combo of train and bus (see more below). The overall trip would take about one hour and 30 minutes. Here’s the  GO Route Planner for this Toronto-Barrie route .

If you do take the train, you will head for Allandale Waterfront GO Station which is right by the waterfront and a short walk to downtown.

Just so you know: Barrie city transit is included in your GO fare if you get off the train and travel within 30 minutes of getting into Barrie. You can learn more  on the city of Barrie website here .

Address for Allandale GO Station: 24 Essa Road, Barrie, Ontario

Toronto to Barrie By Bus

There are more options for taking the bus to Barrie. As we mentioned above, you can take the GO Bus or Ontario Northland.

To be honest, the Northland is a direct trip whereas you may have to change via the GO Bus so you pick your battle here. You can check for fares and times on Ontario Northland .

Both the GO Bus and the Ontario Northland now leave from the new Union Station Bus Terminal in Toronto at 81 Bay Street. It’s at the corner of Bay St & Lakeshore Blvd.

Whichever you take, all buses end at the same station near the Barrie Waterfront downtown.

Address Barrie Bus Terminal: 24 Maple Avenue Barrie ON L4N 7W4

Gravenhurst + The Muskokas

Address for Sawdust City Brewing: 397 Muskoka Rd N, Gravenhurst, ON P1P 1G3, Canada

If you want your chance at getting a taste of the famous “cottage country” region in Ontario known as the Muskokas, then head to Gravenhurst! This small town just off Highway 11 has plenty of natural beauty to check out for a day.

Nestled up in the bottom of Lake Muskoka, Gravenhurst has a nice little downtown, some historic sites, and a great Wharf area with a boardwalk to check out.

Of course, you can go much higher up into Ontario – but these wouldn’t be day trips. You might be able to check out nearby Bracebridge, but that’s about as far as you’d wanna go in a single day. There are great Muskoka accommodations (like resorts) nearby you could visit for a day.

Once you’re in town, there are lots of great things to do in Gravenhurst . A classic thing to do is to take a cruise on the vintage Muskoka steamships and check out the Discovery Centre to learn about the area.

You might want to visit Gull Lake Rotary Park or Lookout Park overlooking the water. Just be sure to book in advance if you want to cruise because they can sell out in the summer WELL in advance!

Oh, and if you’re passing through downtown Gravenhurst don’t forget to check out Sawdust City Brewing . This brewery does amazing craft beer and has a great venue for tastings and events – we even wrote about our visit to Sawdust City !

Toronto to Gravenhurst By Car

Unsurprisingly, the best way to get to Gravenhurst and explore it is by car. Gravenhurst is located north of Toronto (past Barrie) up Highway 11.

It’s about 2 hours of driving (170 kilometres driving distance) so if you leave in the morning you can get in a whole day of hiking, eating, and enjoying!

Once you get to Gravenhurst, there’s free parking down at the waterfront Wharf area and street parking along the main street through “downtown”. We had no problem finding parking!

Toronto to Gravenhurst By Bus

The Ontario Northland bus does go from Toronto to Gravenhurst around 3 times a day – but the trip takes 2 hours and 50 minutes.

We’d say it’s a great idea but for a day trip you might want that extra hour back so perhaps driving is best. That said, you can see the prices and schedule for Ontario Northland here .

Address for The Bookshelf: 41 Quebec St, Guelph, ON N1H 2T1, Canada

If you are feeling the green vibes and want another option for the country, then you should head to Guelph! This growing farm town is very agriculturally-conscious, and there’s lots to see and do!

We like Guelph quite a bit. It’s got a nice downtown core with restaurants, bars, and plenty of shops.

As for things to do and see, there’s a famous Farmer’s Market on Saturday, a massive Basilica on the hill, a civic museum, The Bookshelf , and more. You can even skate at City Hall in winter!

If you want to connect with nature, you can rent a canoe/kayak on the rivers (and eat ice cream at “ The Boathouse Tearoom “), walk the numerous walking trails through the parks, check out the Arboretum, or head north of the city to Guelph Lake Conservation Area with a beach!

Oh, and Guelph is known for its breweries – so be sure to visit Brothers Brewing right downtown or Royal City Brewing for a taste of some great craft beer!

If you need more Guelph knowledge, we’ve got a bunch of great posts about travelling to and exploring Guelph, Ontario:

• How to Get to Guelph from Toronto – All Ways in Detail
• 21 Things to Do and See in Guelph
• Awesome Pubs and Bars in Guelph

Toronto to Guelph By Car

As with most places on this list, it’s easiest/best to get to Guelph by car for a day trip. Guelph is located west (and a bit south) of Toronto. Just take Highway 401 for about 1 hour and 20 minutes (traffic depending).

It’s about 90 kilometres driving distance so not too far – and it’s an easy one. You then take Highway 46 (which is exit #299). This turns into Gordon Street and you’ll drive right downtown Guelph.

Once downtown, there are lots of places to park whether you’re looking for street parking or parking lots. Parking in the Baker Street lot means you can go eat at Baker Street Station Pub which is a quick walk from downtown.

Toronto to Guelph By Train

You actually can get to Guelph by train with ViaRail but it does not work for a day trip there and back.

There are now several train-only (direct, no transfers) trips from Toronto to Guelph one in the morning, then around lunch, then a bunch in the late afternoon (to serve the commuters heading home to Guelph from Toronto).

These train trips take about 1 hour 30 minutes – so a day trip on the GO Train is possible. It’s also cheaper with a Presto Card, FYI.

Also, since weekday and weekend schedules vary slightly, it’s important to check the GO Transit Schedule ahead of time to know how and when you are travelling.

Toronto to Guelph By Bus

As for the bus, you could theoretically take the GO Bus the whole way if you left early in the morning.

Otherwise, you’d have to take the GO train/bus combo later in the morning (you can check the GO Transit Schedule ) to make it worth your time for a day trip.

Grand River + Cambridge

Address for Downtown Cambridge: 25 Queens Square, Cambridge, ON, Canada

If you want more of a hidden gem day trip from Toronto, you might consider heading to Cambridge, Ontario!

Once known as Galt, this smaller city close to Kitchener is located right on the Grand River – an important feature in Ontario’s landscape and history. The city is made up of smaller towns like Preston, Hespeler, and Galt/West Galt – each with its unique charm.

There are lots of things to do in the Cambridge area such as shop/cafe/pub hop, check out the McDougall Cottage Historic Site, or just simply wander the Grand.

The historic buildings (Central Presbyterian Church, seen above) make for lovely photographs. There are many pathways along parts of the river that cut through tranquil parks and green spaces.

Outside the city centre (this is where a car comes in), there are things like the Cambridge Butterfly Conservatory, Shade’s Mills Conservation Area, and Chicopee Resort for winter tubing and summer fun, too!

Eric has played disc golf at Chicopee in the summer and it was an absolute blast!

One of the top activities along the Grand River is river tubing in the summer. There are a few places you can do it but Cambridge is certainly a popular location. Tubing the Grand launches north of the city centre just upriver!

Toronto to Cambridge By Car

No surprise, but it’s best to head to Cambridge in a car. The city is located to the west and a little south of Toronto (south of Guelph). Just take Highway 401 westbound out of the city.

You can then take exit #286 or #282 and head south into Cambridge. 282 takes you RIGHT into downtown along the river.

The total driving distance is about 100 km and 1 hour (of course, traffic-depending). Once you get there, there’s street parking and a handful of lots to park in.

Toronto to Cambridge By Bus

Since Greyhound shut down its routes in Canada in 2021, there is, unfortunately, no bus option between these two cities.

Kawartha Lakes

Maps Location for Lindsay

One more day trip to the other famous Ontario Cottage region doesn’t hurt, right? Then you may want to check out Kawartha Lakes!

Kawartha Lakes is an actual place, the Kawartha Lakes are a grouping of lakes, and the “Kawarthas” is the name that has come to represent this area of unique rocky landscape and lakes!

The region is known to include towns like Bobcaygeon (also the name of a famous song by the Tragically Hip – a Canadian band), Lindsay, and Buckhorn, and features popular lakes like Stoney and Sturgeon.

There are a few parks in the area – such as Kawartha Highlands Provincial Park and Petroglyphs Provincial Park but they are farther to the east.

Heading more south (close to Campbellford) you’ll find the Ranney Gorge Suspension Bridge on the Trent-Severn Waterway. This is a great stop if you want another short walk and amazing photos!

Oh, and don’t forget to eat some Kawartha Dairy ice cream. You can find it all over Ontario but it bears the name of the famous region being founded in Bobcaygeon!

Toronto to Kawartha Lakes By Car

Given the large nature of the area, this day trip is best done by car. Luckily, there are a few ways to get to the area – and it depends on where you are heading in the region.

To drive to Bobcaygeon, for example, you’ll head to the northeast of Toronto for about 2 hours (traffic depending) on Highway 401 to Highway 115 then to Highway 35.

The distance is about 160 kilometres so it’s not too long but it’ll certainly be a bit of a trek. You will want to start in the morning to not waste the day.

Milton Conservation Areas

Address for Rattlesnake Point CA: 7200 Appleby Line, Milton, ON L9E 0M9, Canada

If you want an area that is jam-packed with outdoor adventure in all seasons, you should head for Milton, Ontario!

If you’re a local, you might be laughing, but hear us out. Milton is home to some top conservation areas with excellent trails for hiking, snowshoeing, and scenic views.

The reason Milton has such a great outdoor scene is because of the Niagara Escarpment. It runs along the edge of town (and includes part of the Bruce Trail) and shapes the landscape.

As such, there are three places in particular that – if you head out to Milton – you should check out: Rattlesnake Point Conservation Area , Kelso Conservation Area , and Crawford Lake Conservation Area .

In the summer season, these places can get pretty busy (because of the stunning views/vantage points from the high cliffs).

So if you plan on being a day-tripper from Toronto, be sure to be safe when you visit and be flexible enough to check out another area. If you go in the winter, bring your skis and/or snowshoes to make the most of the trails!

Toronto to Milton By Car

Exploring the Milton/Halton area is easiest by car – especially if you plan on visiting more than one place while out for the day.

The drive to Milton is pretty easy – you just take Highway 401 west out of Toronto and head for exit #320. All three areas above can be found from this exit.

The drive will take about an hour (for about 70 km driving distance) but since you are going against commuter traffic in the morning and afternoon you might be spared super stuffy traffic in/out of the west end. Good luck!

Toronto to Milton By Train/Bus

Milton has a GO Station in the town centre that is serviced by GO Bus and Train – the issue is much like the day trip to Barrie: if you wanted to go to Milton in the morning, the train would be coming against you to bring commuters to work. That said, you can still have a look at the GO Transit website .

Cobourg Beach + Cobourg

Address for Cobourg Beach: 138 Division St, Cobourg, ON K9A 3P3, Canada

If you haven’t had enough of beaches – and you don’t want to drive to get to one – then you have one more potential option: heading to Cobourg, Ontario!

This small town on Lake Ontario boasts one of the best beaches in the province – and it’s right downtown close to the centre!

Cobourg Beach is a public beach with lots of amenities and green space, food options nearby, a splash pad for kids, and there are even camping grounds.

A highlight is that there are walking trails along the water that extend along the shoreline – so there’s more to do than just visiting the beach.

As for Cobourg itself, the downtown core is small but full of little shops, cafes, places to eat, bars, an art gallery, and more! Oh, and don’t forget to photograph the lighthouse if you go. It’s quite nice down by the Harbour!

Toronto to Cobourg By Car

The best option (as per usual) is to drive to Cobourg. From Toronto, you head east on Highway 401 for about 1 hour and 30 minutes (120 km driving distance).

Take exit #472 and head south to the water. Once you get there, you can find parking on the street or in a paid lot.

Toronto to Cobourg By Train

You actually could take the ViaRail train to the beach (there is no GO service). Cobourg has a ViaRail station not too far from downtown. The trip will take an hour each way.

The good news is you could do it – leave in the morning and return to Union at night. The potential bad news is for the price you could rent a car and pay for a tank of gas for cheaper (season-dependent).

In any case, it’s an option! You can check for times and prices at the ViaRail website .

Buffalo, USA

Address for City Hall: 65 Niagara Square, Buffalo, NY 14202, United States

If you’re looking for day trips to the USA from Toronto, Buffalo, New York is probably your best bet! Buffalo is surprisingly not far from Toronto – making it a popular spot for cross-border shopping.

Once you get downtown, you can check out the Canalside area, the Naval and Military Park, the Theodore Roosevelt Inaugural National Historic Site, and more!

Mind you, this is an international border so you will need to bring ID with you to go there and back!

Toronto to Buffalo By Car

Being located across the border and south of Niagara Falls, driving to Buffalo is a good option – but you should get a head start in the morning.

From Toronto, you take our friend the QEW/Highway 403 towards Hamilton and then head for Niagara Falls.

You can then choose: cross into the USA at Niagara Falls and the Rainbow Bridge OR drive south to Fort Erie and cross on the Peace Bridge (closer to actual Buffalo)!

The trip will take anywhere from 2 to 3 hours (about 170 km driving distance). The thing is, you pass through so many areas that MAY slow you down that it’s just hard to nail down an exact time.

Toronto to Buffalo By Bus

Luckily, because it’s a popular city, you can take both the Greyhound, Megabus, or FlixBus to Buffalo. Yes, Greyhound shut down Canadian operations in 2021 but only routes in Canada – they still run cross-border Toronto to Buffalo.

The Megabus, FlixBus, and Greyhound all leave from the new Union Station Bus Terminal located at 81 Bay Street Union Bus Terminal.

As for time, Greyhound can do it in about 3 hours one way (some slightly more, some slightly less). It depends on the day of travel.

You can check schedules and prices with Greyhound , FlixBus , or the Megabus . All buses arrive at the same station.

Address for Buffalo Downtown Terminal: 181 Ellicott St, Buffalo, NY 14203, United States

Related Articles

If you’re planning on visiting Toronto , we’ve got a ton of knowledge for you:

• 27 Things to Do and See in Toronto
• Where to Stay in Toronto: A Neighbourhood + Hotel Guide
• A Perfect Day in Toronto Itinerary
• Our Favourite Toronto Coffee Shops in Toronto
• The Best Ice Cream Spots In Toronto
• Our Favourite Bars in Bars and Pubs in Downtown Toronto

And there you have it – a rundown of some of the best day trips from Toronto.

Of course, there are a handful more places to check out and dozens of single attractions, but we think we’ve rounded up the best trips to keep you busy for a full day! Let us know where you end up – we’d love to hear it!

As always, Keep Exploring, eh? -E&L

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Eric Wychopen

Hi, we're Eric and Lisa - an Ontario-born Canadian and a German! After settling in Ontario together, we realized that there is lots more to explore in this beautiful Canadian province! On Ontario Away, we as well as local contributors cover everything from cities and hikes to wineries, attractions, accommodations, and more.

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

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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 Southern Ontario, it’s perfectly situated to explore the region, with plenty of fantastic weekend getaways and day trips from Toronto. Admittedly, most of our itineraries use Toronto as the starting point, hence the CN Tower in our logo.

When you feel like you need a break from city life to breathe fresh air, get your body moving or explore nearby history and culture, you can visit incredible places around Toronto . Within a couple of hours, you can paddle across spectacular lakes and rivers, get ‘lost’ among wildlife on hiking trails, eat sweets at quaint cafes or sip vino at the top wineries in the province. 

If you haven’t got a weekend to camp in Huntsville or discover Kingston , We’ve compiled a list of the best road trips from Toronto for a weekend getaway so that you can explore Ontario one weekend at a time. 

Renting a car is an option if you don’t have a car or have friends with cars. With so many car rental options in Toronto, finding one that fits your needs shouldn’t be hard.

Last Updated: June 27, 2023

The Best Day Trips From Toronto

Before we get started, you should know that a day trip at Road Trip Ontario is considered a journey requiring no more than two hours from Toronto. With a maximum of four hours of total driving, visitors should be able to make the most of their destination – whether a big city or a small town. Bigger cities can double as a weekend getaway .

We should also note that travel time varies based on location, and if you are leaving from Toronto, we can guarantee that most of your time will be spent in traffic trying to escape the city. However, once you hit the open road, you’ll be happy.

1. Niagara Falls 

Distance from Toronto: 128km Time: 1hr 45min

A list of day trips in Ontario would not be complete without the world-renowned, bucket-list destination of Niagara Falls. Yes, it is a tourist hotspot, but it’s a must-see destination if you’ve never witnessed the mighty falls. 

You can choose from many incredible ways to experience the magical falls. Perhaps take a boat tour to see the falls from the water or explore the tunnels behind the falls, listening to the roar behind the water curtain. For a birds-eye view over the extraordinary area, take a trip up the Skylon Tower. 

It’s truly an awe-inspiring moment to witness the force of the tumbling waters and a lot of fun for children and adults alike. Love it or hate it, it’s one of the world’s top natural attractions, and it’s an easy day trip from Toronto.

Are you looking for a winter getaway? You can plan a day trip to Niagara Falls from Toronto any time of year. There is something truly magical about seeing the falls surrounded by ice and snow. Plus, you can check out the Niagara Falls Winter Festival of Lights or the Niagara Ice Wine Festival.

2. Niagara-on-the-lake

Distance from Toronto: 129km Time: 1hr 22min

This quaint, picturesque little tourist town is usually visited in conjunction with Niagara Falls or as an individual trip to discover the 30 different wineries. You can join a tour of the best wineries , or pick some individual farms that appeal to you. 

The town has cute tourist features such as horse-drawn carriages and souvenir shops. But it’s beautiful and charming in its own right, and the wine is worth the journey alone.

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3. brantford .

Distance from Toronto: 103km Time: 1hr 4mins

As the birthplace of the phone, and hockey legend, Wayne Gretzky, Brantford is a city full of history and adventure. Tour Alexander Graham Bell’s home or explore the Canadian Military Heritage Museum.

An Artisans’ village offers a unique shopping experience, and the vibrant farmers’ market provides fresh local produce. Nature enthusiasts can head to Brant Conservation Area for some outdoor fun.

Brantford is the perfect destination for all, from historical sites to open-air activities.

Distance from Toronto: 111km  Time: 1hr 20mins

No, don’t jump on a plane to France. Instead, visit the holder of the accolade ‘Ontario’s prettiest town’ down the road from Toronto. Situated on the Grand River, this is an excellent day trip in Southern Ontario for alternative markets and for foodies to feast on world-class menu options in this small food capital. 

You can raft down the majestic river, visit the historic Penman’s Dam or search for epic viewpoints along the 100km of hiking trails in the area. Don’t miss out on the cheese shops, bakeries and open-air cafes while you’re there.

5. Royal Botanical Gardens

Distance from Toronto: 64km Time: 45min 

A super quick drive from Toronto, near Hamilton, is a stunning oasis and the most extensive botanical garden in Canada, covering 2,400 acres. The gardens are a fantastic and scenic destination for a day trip in Southern Ontario. 

There are over 2,400 plant species in the gardens and 27km of nature trails for you to explore. You can check out the historical outdoor plant collections, the indoor Mediterranean Garden and the at-risk species.  The Royal Botanical Gardens also hosts plenty of events, workshops and courses.

6. Burlington

The Royal Botanical Gardens is located in Burlington, an awesome city in its own right, between Toronto and Niagara Falls in Halton Region .

The culturally lively metropolitan, located on the northern beaches of Lake Ontario, is an easy day excursion from bustling Toronto. The Canadian city has abundant family-friendly activities, quaint alleyways, trendy boutiques, and gastronomic delights. 

So finding Fun Things to Do in Burlington Ontario (A Day Trip from Toronto) should be no problem.

7. Oakville

Distance from Toronto: 38km Time: 30min 

Oakville, located in Halton Region and Burlington’s neighbour, is only a 30-minute drive from the city of Toronto. Even though it has been acknowledged as one of the best places to live in Canada, the small town of Oakville is often overlooked as a top tourist destination. But it is well worth exploring, offering a variety of activities such as exploring its vibrant arts scene, shopping, dining, entertainment, festivals, and taking in its beautiful landscapes.

The town has a feeling of a small-town charm that makes it easy to wander around for hours while discovering something new. Furthermore, it has a special connection to African Americans who escaped slavery during the Civil War and chose Oakville as their home.

Distance from Toronto: 55km Time: 40min 

Also located in Halton Region, and, unfortunately not, the first place that comes to mind as a day trip from Toronto is Milton . There are various things for people to enjoy, from beautiful nature hikes to skiing at the local slopes. You can also make a day out of a picnic or attend any festivals and museums Milton offers throughout the year.

9. Andrews Scenic Acres

Distance from Toronto: 59km Time: 42min 

If you haven’t had the chance to visit Andrews Scenic Acres Farm in Milton , now is a perfect time!

Established by the Andrews family in 1980, this farm was originally only meant to be a berry-picking destination, but today, it’s much more. On-site, you’ll find a tasting room, retail shop, vineyard, gardens, apple orchard and cidery.

In addition to the scenic views, it’s a great spot for visitors of all ages to learn about and pick your fruits and vegetables, climb hay stacks, go for tractor rides, hide in cornfield mazes and grab awesome Instagram pics in sunflower fields.

10. Rattlesnake Point

Distance from Toronto: 64km

This is a fantastic place to go near Toronto on a spontaneous day trip. For those weekend mornings, you wake up with no plan and a craving for adventure. It’s only a 45-minute drive from the city to the conservation area, offering awesome rock climbing spots (suitable for beginners, too) and 13 hiking trails. 

You’ll find five lookout points dotted around the conservation area with such phenomenal views over the Niagara Escarpment that you’ll find it hard to believe that you’re so close to the city. The region is teeming with diverse plant and animal life and vast green meadows that make for a perfect picnic spot. 

11. Waterloo

Distance from Toronto: 113km Time: 1hr 10min 

Waterloo, in Waterloo Region , primarily a University town, is often lumped in with the neighbouring city of Kitchener, earning the duo the nickname of the Twin Cities. Catering to those interested in everything from the past and nature to museums to attending theatrical performances, there are tons of exciting and dynamic things to do in Waterloo .

12. Kitchener

Distance from Toronto: 108km Time: 1hr 15min 

Kitchener is a great destination for a day trip from Toronto, just 75 minutes away. With its unique blend of activities, small-town charm, and proximity to Waterloo, Kitchener provides the perfect mix of fun and relaxation for the whole family. From exploring the great outdoors and visiting galleries and museums to the stellar dining experiences and brewery options. Kitchener has something for everyone.

13. St. Jacob’s

Distance from Toronto: 121km Time: 1hr 20min 

Located in the township of Woolwich, In Waterloo Region, just outside the City of Waterloo, St. Jacobs Village is small but packed with things to see and do . It’s a quaint little village that offers a unique old-world charm centred around its incredible Mennonite history and products, which can be found at the incredible St.Jacob’s Farmers’ Market –– a destination in its own right! (Be sure to check their hours of operation before heading out)

If you’re looking for an excursion with a little bit of history, St. Jacobs Village is the perfect destination!

14. Cambridge

Distance from Toronto: 97km Time: 1hr 13min 

Also located in Waterloo Region, Cambridge is yet another perfect day trip from Toronto, which offers a variety of historical attractions, outdoor activities, and gorgeous natural spots.

Cambridge is part of the Municipality of Waterloo, divided into the three neighbourhoods of Galt, Hespeler, and Preston. It is situated at the meeting point of the Speed and Grand rivers, which catalyzed the development of the local milling, manufacturing, and brewing markets.

The Cambridge Butterfly Conservatory is a must-visit spot in Cambridge!

15. Woodstock

Distance from Toronto: 142km Time: 1hr 33min 

In the county of Oxford is the city of Woodstock ! Here, you can experience a unique culture that pays tribute to its history as the Dairy Capital of the province, marked by events such as the Dairy Capital Stampede, Cowapolooza and Cheese Fest.

We recommend visiting the One-of-a-kind-Antique Mall for three floors of antique hunting, getting cheese from Gunn’s Hill Artisan Cheese, picking your fruits and veggies from Thames River Melons, and exploring the Woodstock Museum National Historic site and Upper Thames Brewing Company.

16. Stratford

Distance from Toronto: 149km Time: 1hr 49min 

Every time we visit a new city or town in Ontario, we become more and more enamoured with it. One such destination is the beautiful and vibrant city of Stratford .

Whether you’re an art enthusiast or a nature lover, there is something for everyone in Stratford. The streets are filled with quaint shops and markets, and three surround Stratford City Hall like a triangle. Art festivals, galleries, and museums abound here, allowing you to immerse yourself in the culture and creativity of the city.

Nature lovers will be just as happy with all the outdoor exploration opportunities near the Avon River.

Distance from Toronto: 115km Time: 1hr 28mins

Escape from the big city to the quaint village of Elora , in Wellington County , for one of the best Toronto day trips. Sitting on the Grand River banks, it will feel like you’ve landed in rural Italy rather than Southern Ontario. 

It makes for a fantastic one-day trip from Toronto for foodies, shopaholics, thrill-seekers, nature lovers…pretty much everyone! In the summer, you can dive into the Elora Quarry swimming hole, tube down the gorgeous river and enjoy various other extreme activities. Get some fresh air in the winter on the hiking trails or the zip-line.

For those wanting to take it easy, you’ll love all the charming local shops and art galleries. And for foodies, you can spend the entire day eating your way through fine dining restaurants and quirky cafes.

Distance from Toronto: 107km Time: 1hr 23mins

Also in Wellington County and next door to Elora is Fergus, a scenic heritage community home to beautiful parks and tons of greenery. The scenic town is brimming with fun and leisurely things to do.

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 Scottish Festival and Highland Games in August every year. 

Distance from Toronto: 98km Time: 1hr 18mins

Situated on the shores of Lake Simcoe, Barrie is a city that sits on the snow belt, making it a great stop after a day of skiing and snowboarding, with all the popular ski resorts in the area; Snow Valley Ski Resort, Horseshoe Valley, Hockey Valley Resort, and Mount St. Louis Moonstone.

With many shops and boutiques, one can explore the local cuisine through the various cafes and restaurants. After hitting the slopes, Barrie is the perfect destination for lunch, dinner and shopping.

20. Blue Mountain Village 

Distance from Toronto: 159km  Time: 2hr 13mins

Regardless of the season, Blue Mountain Resort makes an incredible day trip from Toronto packed with exciting adventure seekers and outdoor enthusiasts. It’s a popular skiing and winter destination, and people flock to the stunning area to enjoy various winter activities, from skiing to skating and even dog sledding!

The warmer months are just as exciting when the mountainsides turn golden in the fall, bursting with wildflowers in the spring and basking in the sunshine in summer. You can explore the many beautiful hiking trails or jump on a mountain bike for some off-road adventure. 

After an exciting day in the mountains, explore the pedestrian-only village that’s packed with boutiques and eateries.

21. Collingwood

Distance from Toronto: 171km  Time: 2hr 7mins

If you want to make the most of your ski trip to Blue Mountain, consider taking a little detour to Collingwood . This charming city is full of unique indoor and outdoor activities that will make your /day trip/weekend getaway extra special.

From taking a scenic hike to exploring a museum, there is something for everyone. Foodies will also enjoy the restaurants featuring delicious cuisine, while culture fans will find plenty of art galleries, festivals and other events to attend.

22. Wasaga Beach 

Distance from Toronto: 148km  Time: 1hr 52mins

It doesn’t get much better than this for an epic beach day trip in Ontario. It may not be the seaside, but it is the longest freshwater beach in the world, with 14 km of beach on Ontario’s Georgian Bay. In only two hours, you’ll find yourself relaxing on the shores feeling like you’ve escaped to a tropical island. 

In summer, the waterfront is a hive of activities, with plenty of stores, restaurants and bars to feast and shop to your heart’s content after a day in the water. 

When the weather gets chillier, Wasaga Beach is still an epic day trip. You can go for scenic walks, hit the cross-country ski trails in the Wasaga Beach Provincial Park, and dip in the icy waters if you’re brave enough!

23. Port Perry

Distance from Toronto: 82km Time: 1hr 11mins

This is one of the best day trips from Toronto because you can be ice fishing and knocking back beers in less than an hour. Part of the ‘cottage country’ region and boasting Lake Scugog’s fantastic ice fishing spot, if you’re not sitting in a hut in the middle of the frozen lake, there are plenty of other things to do in Port Perry .  

Downtown is heart-achingly pretty, with a treasure trove of artisanal shops, quaint bakeries and lively eateries. Stroll along the walking trail in Palmer Park and have a picnic with all the goodies you found in town. Rummage for antiques and collectables at Caviar and Cobwebs or sample local brews at the Old Flame Brewery. 

Be sure to bring an appetite for all the tasty treats and a fishing license to try ice fishing.

Which of These Best Toronto Day Trips Are You Excited For?

There’s something for everyone to enjoy on these day trips from Toronto. If you want to get your blood pumping, you have many adventure activities on your doorstep. If you need a ‘beach’ break, you’ll find sandy shores and crystal clear waters a short drive away. 

And if you want to explore the region, all you need to do is choose one of these incredible places to visit outside of Toronto. 

Which one of these Ontario day trip ideas will be your next excursion?

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8 Smart Tips For Cross-Border Shopping in Buffalo

If you’re looking for a quick day trip from Toronto and a productive shopping trip in one, Buffalo is the perfect city to visit. Not only is the merchandise selection different than what you’ll find in T.O., but the prices are often better too (even with the current exchange rate!) To learn our tricks of the trade for shopping in this nearby U.S. city, check out our 8 tips for cross-border shopping in Buffalo below.

1. Plan Your Itinerary in Advance

Deciding which spots you plan on visiting in Buffalo ahead of time is always a good idea so that you can plan out your day(s) accordingly.

Some shopping destinations we highly recommend are:

• Fashion Outlets of Niagara Falls USA (1900 Military Rd, Niagara Falls, NY)
• Boulevard Mall (730 Alberta Dr, Amherst, NY)
• Stores: Macy’s, Express, Victoria’s Secret (click here for the full directory)

Boulevard Mall Surrounding Area:

• Trader Joe’s (1565 Niagara Falls Blvd, Buffalo, NY)
• Target (1575 Niagara Falls Blvd, Amherst, NY )
• Nordstrom Rack (1579 Niagara Falls Blvd, Amherst, NY)
• Ulta Beauty (1701 Niagara Falls Blvd #100, Amherst, NY)
• TJ Maxx (3050 Sheridan Dr, Amherst, NY)

Walden Galleria Mall (1 Walden Galleria, Buffalo, NY)

• Stores/Restaurants: Lord & Taylor, Macy’s, Express, Zara, Forever 21, The Cheesecake Factory, PF Chang’s (click here for the full directory)  

2. Look for Coupons & Visitor Passes

Many stores/malls in Buffalo offer coupons and visitor passes that can help increase your cross-border savings even further. For example, at Macy’s you can get 10% off with their Visitor Savings Pass , and the Fashion Outlet also offers a Savings Pass to save you 10% or more at participating stores. Make sure to check out the websites of all the spots you plan on visiting to see what deals are available!

3. Use Cash & Convert Your Money Beforehand

While credit cards are a convenient way to pay for your purchases in Buffalo, most Canadian credit cards charge foreign transaction fees; so unless you have a U.S. credit card, cash is always the best method of payment!

Also, in terms of getting your cash, make sure to convert your money to the U.S. before your trip across the border so that you can look for the best exchange rate.

4. Consider Staying Overnight for Larger Duty-Free Allowances

Although Buffalo makes for the perfect day trip from Toronto, you may want to consider staying overnight in order to receive a larger duty-free allowance. For example, Canadians who visit the U.S. for less than 24 hours aren’t entitled to a duty-free allowance (meaning you’ll probably have to pay duty at the border when coming back into Canada). However, if you stay longer than 24 hours, your allowance increases to $200 per person, and if you stay longer than 48 hours, your allowance increases to $800 per person.

If you do your research, you can likely find a suitable hotel that meets your budget for one or two nights. A lot of hotels in Buffalo actually offer discounted rates for visitors coming from Canada!

5. Avoid Visiting During Peak Times

In terms of time of day to arrive in Buffalo, the earlier the better (the stores usually open around 9:30/10am). This way you’ll have the whole day to spend there if you’re just doing a day trip, and you’ll likely avoid heavy traffic near the border.

In terms of the actual day of the week to visit, we recommend going mid-week if you can (weekends are usually a lot busier). And in terms of time of year, you should avoid going on major American or Canadian holidays like Black Friday or Boxing Day – unless you don’t mind insane crowds and long wait times!

6. Pick the Right Border Crossing & Consider Getting NEXUS

Although the Lewiston-Queenston Bridge is a popular border crossing for Torontonians, you’re likely to get through the Rainbow Bridge much faster as it has a higher number of lanes. You might also want to consider getting a NEXUS card so that you can whiz through your border crossings even quicker (however, it’s worth noting that every person in the car must have NEXUS in order to use the designated lanes).

7. Shop Online & Ship to the Border

As we all know, one of the most annoying things about shopping online from Canada is finding something you like on a U.S. site, only to be hit with astronomical duty and shipping fees. But if you’re planning a cross-border trip to Buffalo anyways, why not shop whatever you want online and then ship it to a U.S. address where you can pick it up? CBI is a great company to use, as it costs only $5.95 USD for them to hold your package (for as long as you want), and it’s located right near the border!

8. Fill Up on Gas Before You Leave

One final tip: before you leave Buffalo, you should definitely fill up on gas as it’s usually much cheaper in the U.S. than in Canada. Plus, you’ll need it for the ride home!

Do you have any tips for cross-border shopping in the U.S.? Let us know in the comments!

Featured Image: studio5p-architects.com

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6 of the best day trips from Toronto

Nov 2, 2022 • 5 min read

Go beyond Toronto and see some of Ontario's best places with these top day trips from the city © Russell Monk / Getty Images

Toronto offers plenty of fantastic things to see and do , but make some time on your vacation in  Canada to step beyond this major city. There are many places in Ontario worth adding to your bucket list. 

1. Experience the best of Niagara Falls

Travel time: 1 hour 30 minutes

Niagara Falls is a wonderful sight to see, especially at night when the falls are illuminated, or during the fireworks display that takes place at 10pm every evening in the summer months. The observation deck of the Skylon Tower is an incredible vantage point or you can watch from Table Rock . Take an unmissable ride on the famed boat tours of Horseshoe Falls  (not available during the winter season) where you'll feel the mist from the falls all around you.

But a trip to Niagara isn’t complete without a visit to the famous Clifton Hill Street. From wax museums and mirror mazes to haunted houses, there are tons of fun and carnivalesque attractions to explore in this little area. You can also enjoy sweet treats from the Fudge Factory and get an incredible view from high on the Niagara SkyWheel. It’s a great destination for both couples and families.

How to get to Niagara Falls from Toronto: Travel from Toronto to Niagara Falls through GO Transit starting from Toronto’s Union Station or through Megabus from near the Toronto Eaton Centre. Driving your own car or rental will take around 1.5 hours.

2. Go wine tasting in Prince Edward County

Travel time: 2 hours 30 minutes

While the vineyards of Niagara-on-the-Lake  are well-loved by many Torontonians, Prince Edward County is becoming another favorite destination for wine lovers. They may be newer to the scene, but with a few dozen wineries perfecting their craft in the County, they certainly know what they’re doing. Browse the directory of wineries to narrow down your hit list of vineyards and find the perfect terroir for you.

Prince Edward County is also a popular getaway destination for millennials, as it’s home to Instagram-worthy spots like the June Motel and the Drake Devonshire Inn . "Rosé all day," as they say.

How to get to Prince Edward County from Toronto: If you’re visiting on a weekday, ride the Greyhound bus from Toronto to Belleville, then take the Deseronto Transit bus into Prince Edward County. Otherwise, you’ll have to rent a car for the 2.5-hour drive.

3. Hike to a waterfall in Hamilton

Travel time: 1 hour

With more than 100 waterfalls in its vicinity, Hamilton has often been called the "waterfall capital of the world." Some require hiking on rough trails (be very careful when the temperature drops), some you can walk right up to, and some you can see in the comfort of your air-conditioned vehicle. Tourism Hamilton has a helpful guide that can help you choose which falls to visit. Parking lots can get busy during the weekends, but don’t be tempted to park illegally – the Hamilton police keep an eagle eye out for infractions.

After you’ve exhausted the waterfall hikes, grab a meal (and perhaps a drink) along King William Street. This popular street in downtown Hamilton is filled with trendy and amazing restaurants such as Black Forest Inn  (great German food) and HAMBRGR (unique burgers).

How to get to Hamilton from Toronto: To visit Hamilton from Toronto, take GO Transit from Toronto’s Union Station or rent a car for the hour-long drive.

4. Get outdoors at Blue Mountain

A popular skiing destination in the winter, Blue Mountain  offers year-round adventure activities including canoeing, kayaking, zip-lining and mountain biking.

Once you’ve had your adventure fix, shop and dine in the adorable and picturesque Blue Mountain Village. While you’re there, check out the Ridge Runner Mountain Coaster, a rollercoaster-like ride up the mountain and through the trees. It’s quick but exciting, and you can control your own speed.

How to get to Blue Mountain from Toronto: Take an AUC Tours shuttle or Greyhound bus from Toronto to Blue Mountain Village or rent a car for the 2.5-hour drive.

5. See a Shakespeare play in Stratford

Travel time: 1 hour 50 minutes

Stratford is a beautiful town filled with arts, culture and a love for all things Shakespeare. The Stratford Festival  is a theater festival running annually from spring to fall, with around half a million visitors each year.

Catch a live performance at the Avon Theatre, grab some of the best vegan food you’ll ever have at The Planet Diner and sample local stouts and ales at the Shakespeare Brewing Company . If you didn’t already know, Stratford is also famous as the hometown of Justin Bieber.

How to get to Stratford from Toronto: Take the VIA Rail from Toronto’s Union Station or rent a car. The Stratford Festival also offers a Direct Bus from Union Station to Stratford for theater ticket holders.

6. Travel to Bruce Peninsula National Park and s ee the Grotto in Tobermory

Travel time: 4 hours

The Grotto might be the most beautiful natural wonder in Ontario. Located in Bruce Peninsula National Park , this limestone sea cave has stunningly crystal-clear water and is fun to swim through. If you have more time, take a short ferry ride to see Flowerpot Island. With incredible rock formations, clear blue waters and forested cliffs, the Bruce Peninsula is a stunner.

The drive to Tobermory from Toronto is around 4 hours and many visitors prefer to stay overnight. But you can definitely make it a day trip if you start early and leave later.

How to get to Tobermory from Toronto: Rent a car for the 4-hour drive. Alternatively, the Parkbus picks up near Toronto’s Bloor-Yonge Station at 8:30am with a drop-off at the Grotto for 1:30pm, then picks up from the Grotto at 5:30pm, returning to Bloor-Yonge Station at 10:15pm.

This article was first published September 2019 and updated November 2022

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Hit Refresh with a Health & Wellness Trip to Toronto

Ideas & inspiration, 6 top toronto spas for last-minute spontaneous pampering, the perfect toronto weekend itinerary for maple leafs fans, 5 life-changing weekend getaways in toronto, wine & cocktails, toasty treats: where to find the best warm cocktails in toronto this season, toronto's best sports bars for watching the big game, the classics, local picks: top 10 spots for comfort food in toronto, global tastes, toronto's best restaurants for plant-forward dining, festivals & events, 9 black history month events to check out in toronto, museums, galleries & attractions, 10 amazing toronto escape rooms & games for all ages, 5 great toronto attractions if you are blind or visually impaired, bipoc owned, 10 black-owned businesses in toronto to support right now, shopping guides, where to buy uniquely toronto gifts & souvenirs, style & design, an architecture buff’s guide to queen’s park, 5 iconic toronto buildings for architecture buffs, outdoor adventures, 6 fun outdoor winter activities you must try in toronto right now, discover the best parks in toronto for winter fun, toronto’s best skating rinks for every kind of skater, indigenous stories, 10 ways to support indigenous creators.

Top Shopping Districts in Toronto

The city's major shopping neighbourhoods are made for hours of browsing with fabulous stores side-by-side within walking distance from each other. For these shopping trips, it's best to park your car or bike nearby since you surely won't leave empty-handed.

Find luxe labels along Bloor Street West in glitzy-glam Bloor-Yorkville. The Westside serves locally designed and generally hip finds while the emerging design area of King Street East, in the heart of historic Old Town, promises the latest in high-end design and art-inspired wares.

Explore Shopping Districts

Shopping in the distillery district.

From cobblestone streets to industrial-era buildings, it’s easy to see where Old Town Toronto...

Shopping on King Street East

Shopping on queen west.

Queen West is home to some of the city’s most cutting-edge boutiques among the art galleries...

Shopping on King West

Toronto’s King Street is aptly named. Once populated primarily by warehouses and industrial...

Shopping in Bloor-Yorkville

It won’t take you long to realize why Bloor-Yorkville is known as Toronto’s Fifth...

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North America Tours & Trips from Toronto

Find your perfect adventure! We have 56 tours of North America that start in Toronto, Canada. The most popular month is September, and tour lengths range between 4 and 35 days.

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56 north america tour packages from toronto with 1,252 reviews.

• In-depth Cultural
• Train & Rail

Ontario & French Canada with Ocean Train to Halifax

• Coach / Bus

Canadian Contrasts

Breakfasts were not that great and I was not impressed with them and there was no dinner or lunch included in our program,otherwise it was Ok

Grand Canadian (19 Days)

• €100 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Historic Cities of Eastern Canada

This was the first time I’d been on a holiday to North America and also the first time I’d been on an escorted holiday. The group size was around 30 people (mainly couples), in total there were four single travellers on the holiday, most people on the holiday would have been over 50 years old. This holiday isn’t suitable for someone who can’t stand heights or who doesn’t like boat trips as two boat trips are included and lunch up the CN Tower is included, while some of the hotels in Canada are very tall and don’t have that many rooms per floor – I was on the 30th floor of the hotel in Toronto. The first day we got an oldish, not very luxurious coach but the tour director did say the coach and driver would just be for that day and for the rest of the trip we would have a different coach, which was a newish Globus branded coach which had better seating and more leg room than the coach we had on the first day. Apparently the different coach and driver on the first day was down to working hours for the main driver so I imagine it happens every time. In Ottawa the tour director promised us something that wasn’t advertised. It turned out this was the Royal Canadian Mounted Police Museum. I found this disappointing as it wasn’t very interesting and an included tour of the Parliament building or the Royal Mint would have been of far more interest to me. Local guides provided tours in Quebec City and Montreal. I think the one of Quebec City worked well but the one of Montreal was 2 hours, mainly on the coach (after already having spent most of the morning on the coach) alighting only to go inside a Cathedral and at a photo opportunity from a vantage point so I would have preferred a bit more walking around Montreal. For included meals be aware that you won’t have the full restaurant menu to order from but a special menu which doesn’t have as many options, in some cases there was only one available option for starter or dessert. If you book this tour and it’s possible I’d recommend arriving on Thursday and departing on Sunday as both Toronto and Montreal are huge cities and the tour only gives you limited time in both cities. For me it wasn’t possible to stay an extra night in Montreal and I don’t feel there wasn’t enough time to see the city.

Essence of Eastern Canada (End Toronto, 8 Days, Toronto Airport And Post Trip Hotel Transfer)

Essence of Eastern Canada (End Montreal, 8 Days)

Our Tour Director (Laurel) was very experienced and kept us well informed in each area we visited with good local knowledge and humor . The driver (Karl) too is very good with his knowledge of the roads and we always felt safe with his driving, and he handled the luggage very carefully. We did the Ottawa river cruise, but felt a little let down with it, but maybe our expectations were unrealistic. The hotels were good, with only one being a bit too far out of town. I would recommend this tour to my friends, as all our fellow travelers were friendly and keen to get along which is important group travel.

Ontario & French Canada (6 destinations)

Great tour, lovely locations and hotels.

Best of Eastern Canada (End Montreal, 9 Days)

Optional excursions were reasonably priced. Suggest you put together other places in each city as a walking guide or short taxi or uber ride. Example access to close by museums open late and could walk to from hotel. Free time activities and what they are and where located is helpful.tour guide can offer to accompany a group interested to explore more during free leisure tome.Provide more detail info about the logistics of site visits. Niagara falls..suggest more water proof gear clothing and shoe types etc. Terrain to expect when visiting certain sites and possible alternatives.climbing and how difficult-easy or more strenuous or advanced climbing activity. Overall, small groups so much better than filling up bus. Thank you for giving single travelers their own bus space. Would love to watch more travel videos on longer driving distances.

Great Canadian Rail Journey

I really had a great time all the people were so friendly and nice .The accommodation was fantastic the meals really good and James was full of info and a very helpful friendly guy.It was the trip of a lifetime .

Best of Eastern Canada (End Toronto, 9 Days, Toronto Airport Departure Transfer)

Very nice tour. Would have liked more time in a place or two but, overall, good.

Canadian Highlights

• Christmas & New Year

Eastern Canada Highlights in a Week

WY were fantastic. The hotels that were booked were above our expectations, central to all the tours we were booked on. Instructions regarding travel and meeting places were very clear and the included tours gave us a wonderful taste of each place, with a balance of free time for our own exploring. One of our flights was delayed by almost 6 hours (NOT WY’s fault) and we arrived in Toronto very early in the morning. WY organised our driver, contacted the hotel and thus we avoided what could have been a difficult situation in an unfamiliar city. Thank you WY - We absolutely recommend you as a reasonably priced, high quality, well organised tour group!!

• Sightseeing

Toronto, Niagara, and Chicago with Western Classics ending Las Vegas

Best of Eastern Canada & USA (Classic, 16 Days)

Canadian Train Odyssey

I would like to see more meals offered. Not use to locating evening meals in unknown city. Understand if stopping at place and everyone buys their own, but evening meals???? Breakfast in past has been standard.

What people love about North America Tours from Toronto

Well organized and we managed to see everything we wanted.

I LOVED this tour. This was my first time as a solo traveller. The tour guide and the driver were both excellent. The experiences were incredible. Trying to arrange the amount of cities, and experiences solo, with hotels, travel etc is not possible for anywhere near the amount paid. Value for money is excellent. Hotels overall were good. There were some that were a little out of the cities, however the tour guide and driver did their best to accommodate by driving everyone back into the city if they wanted to go. Most of the experiences were really good. The Montmorency Falls as an extra trip with meal was a little pricey. There was not enough time at the Falls and the best view would be down the bottom. This could have been a free trip, without the meal, I would suggest this is looked at. Also in Montreal the tour guide who took us round, was not very engaging and it was difficult to hear her. Everything else was spot on. Well organised, excellent value for money, lovely people, beautiful country, wide range of experiences. LOVED IT. Will definitely be doing another tour.

Tours starting from Toronto

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10 Best Shopping Spots in Toronto

By: Author Jessica Lam

Posted on Published: February 19, 2023  - Last updated: January 9, 2024

Categories Ontario , Things to Do in Toronto

Searching for the best shopping spots in Toronto to visit during your trip?

If you’re in the mood to do a lil’ shopping, there are plenty of awesome neighbourhoods and streets to shop in and around Toronto.

While it’s nice and easy to hit up a mall , sometimes you just want to meander through cute neighbourhoods .

You’ll also typically find more independent boutiques and stores outside of the mall, and it’s always nice to support local business owners.

Here are some of the best Toronto shopping spots, whether you’re looking to shop for unique souvenirs or luxury goods!

Be sure to also follow me on Instagram and TikTok – I share a lot more content on those platforms that don’t make it to the blog!

More shopping in Toronto

If you’re looking for more shopping in Toronto , you might enjoy these posts:

• Looking for more places to shop? Peep out the best malls or unique stores in Toronto .
• Searching for Toronto brands? Shop from these sustainable Toronto brands , made-in-Toronto brands , or Toronto swimwear brands .
• Into sustainable fashion? Check out these vintage stores or consignment stores in Toronto .
• Shopping for gifts? Shop the best Toronto gift baskets , foodie gifts , or Toronto-themed gifts .

Best shopping neighbourhoods in Toronto

• Stackt Market

If you’re looking for a really unique shopping experience in Toronto, hit up Stackt Market.

Stackt is North America’s largest shipping container market, and you’ll find all kinds of cool shops here.

I love Our Haru for their adorable pet products made by independent South Korean designers, including ‘lil hats, scarves, and sunglasses for your doggo.

You’ll also find a few food vendors (bao or tacos , anyone?) alongside a small-batch microbrewery offering Stackt-exclusive beers.

They even host a lot of fun and cool events throughout the year, including during the holidays !

LOCATION: 28 Bathurst St, Toronto, ON

• Kensington Market

Kensington Market is one of the coolest and most eclectic neighbourhoods in Toronto .

It’s a neighbourhood that’s been home to many different ethnic groups over the decades, so you’ll find a lot of small ethnic grocery stores and shops here!

They have a lot of great multicultural food spots in Kensington, so you can do a little food crawl or cafe crawl .

Stop into Seven Lives for their amazing tacos , Little Pebbles for their epic croissants , and FIKA Cafe for their delicious coffee .

If you’re looking for a nicer restaurant, hit up Sunny’s Chinese for modern and upscale Chinese cuisine .

Kensington Market is also a fantastic spot for vintage shopping , and I especially love Sub Rosa Vintage and Space Vintage.

Cocktail Emporium is a really fun cocktail supplies shop in Kensington Market, and they’re housed in an adorable and Instagrammable pink building!

• Distillery District

The Distillery District is probably one of the most popular tourist spots in Toronto outside of the CN Tower, but it’s still well-loved by locals.

This historic area used to be home to a spirits distillery, and it’s now a trendy neighbourhood filled with great restaurants , shops, and cultural centres like theatres and galleries.

Take a walk around and peep out all the cute shops in the area, including Hoi Bo for sustainable, Toronto-made clothing and Yummi for fancy candles.

Wildly Delicious is a unique specialty food shop that makes everything from jams to sauces, and you’ll literally want to take everything home.

Plus, they have some fantastic sandwiches in their mini restaurant if you’re feeling hungry!

And if you’re in the mood to hit up a restaurant, visit one of the Distillery District’s best restaurants .

Rosedale is one of the wealthiest neighbourhoods in Toronto , and you’ll find plenty of trendy shops and restaurants to explore.

Located just north of Yorkville , you can hop off the subway at Rosedale or Summerhill Station and take a walk around the chic neighbourhood.

Coco Market is a super cute wellness and specialty food shop where you can find everything from yoga accessories to locally-made food products.

You can also shop European-style home decor at Putti Fine Furnishings, which has an especially amazing selection during the holidays!

If you’re looking to grab a bite in the middle of shopping, Pantry is a gorgeous quick-serve lunch spot and Terroni offers up Italian eats on their stunning rooftop patio .

For dessert, grab some macarons at Nadège Patisserie, one of Toronto’s best bakeries .

Best shopping streets in Toronto

• Queen Street West

Probably the first spot that pops into my head when I think of shopping streets in Toronto is Queen West.

You’ll find tons of cute boutiques and cool vintage shops along Queen West, especially once you go west of Spadina.

Some of my fave vintage shops on Queen West are Mama Loves You, House of Vintage, and Public Butter!

Queen West is also a super ~hip~ area, so you’ll find plenty of amazing restaurants and fun street art around the neighbourhood to explore.

Stop into North of Brooklyn for amazing pizza , Smoque N’ Bones for fantastic BBQ , or Matty’s Patty’s for delicious burgers .

Ossington is actually known as one of the coolest streets in the world, and you’ll find plenty of trendy restaurants, bars, and boutiques in the neighbourhood.

Most of the action is between Queen and Dundas, so just take a walk down Ossington and stop into whatever piques your interest.

You can stop into The Latest Scoop for women’s clothing or Reigning Champ for Vancouver-made clothing.

Fuel up with some coffee at one of the many trendy coffee shops in the neighbourhood, including Pilot Coffee Roasters, Sam James Coffee Bar, and 135 Ossington.

If you’re feelin’ hungry, dine at Favorites Thai BBQ for amazing Thai cuisine , Mamakas Taverna for delicious Greek food, or Té for modern Korean eats .

And of course, you can’t make a stop to the Ossington neighbourhood without grabbing a scoop of ice cream at Bang Bang, though expect to wait in long lines during the summer months.

• Bloor-Yorkville

Dubbed as the “Mink Mile” of Toronto, the Bloor-Yorkville area is the place to go if you’re looking to shop luxury and designer goods downtown.

Though there are primarily luxury stores like Chanel and Moncler in the neighbourhood, they do have mid-range stores like Aritzia , Reformation, and Roots!

Aritzia even has an A-OK Cafe at their Yorkville store, which is a super cute in-house coffee shop they have in a few of their stores.

There are plenty of other awesome cafes in Yorkville worth visiting as well if you’re in the mood for a cup of joe.

Yorkville Village has been home to Toronto Fashion Week in recent years, so you’ll also find some cool independent designer stores around the area.

While you’re here, stop into Eataly to shop imported Italian groceries and eat freshly-made Italian pizzas and pastas.

If you’re hungry, there are also tons of fantastic restaurants worth visiting, whether you’re in the mood for Mediterranean cuisine or upscale Italian eats!

Pay a visit to Planta for elevated vegan eats, Aburi Hana for upscale Japanese cuisine , or Alobar Yorkville for Michelin-Star dining .

• Toronto’s East End

The East End of Toronto is really underrated, and there are a lot of great restaurants and shops in the area!

When I say the East End, I’m referring to Corktown, Riverside, East Chinatown, and Leslieville.

The Apartment Life is a really cool vintage furniture shop in Corktown, and it’s actually right by the store where they filmed Kim’s Convenience (which you can watch on Netflix ).

Common Sort is an awesome consignment shop in Riverside where you can buy or sell gently-used clothing, and it’s very curated with a lot of trendy stuff.

You can also walk along Gerrard East to peep out a bunch of cute stores.

If you’re looking for spots to eat, hit up O’SOMAE for brunch , Reyna on King for Mediterranean eats, or Oji Seichi for authentic ramen .

Just pay a visit and you’ll see how charming the east end of Toronto is!

Best shopping centres & malls in Toronto

• Toronto Eaton Centre

Of course, the most obvious spot to go shopping in Toronto is the Toronto Eaton Centre.

I went to Toronto Metropolitan University next-door for 4 years, so I frequented the mall almost every single day (mostly for the food court ).

They’ve got all the popular stores you’ll typically find in large Toronto malls , like Aritzia and UNIQLO.

The Eaton Centre is also connected to the PATH, which is the largest underground shopping complex in the world.

To get there, make your way to the Hudson’s Bay and Pusateri’s (a high-end grocery store in Toronto), then shop around/get lost while wanderin’ around.

Since most of the shops and restaurants in the PATH cater to the 9-5 crowd, it’s best to explore during the day and on a weekday!

LOCATION: 220 Yonge St, Toronto, ON

• Yorkdale Mall

Yorkdale is a well-known Toronto mall for luxury shopping, and it’s about a half hour subway ride from downtown.

Technically it’s located in North York , but North York is considered part of Toronto.

They have designer stores like Alexander McQueen, Balenciaga, and Saint Laurent, as well as affordable and mid-range brands like H&M, Aritzia, and Reformation.

The main thing I get excited about when coming to Yorkdale is the food – they’ve got so many incredible restaurants and food spots inside the mall!

You can visit TORA (sister restaurant to Miku, one of Toronto’s best sushi restaurants ), Konjiki Ramen ( Michelin Star -accoladed ramen from Tokyo), or Restoration Hardware (which makes a mean burger ).

If you’re looking for more casual eats, you can visit Chick-fil-A’s first Toronto location here, and Bingz Crispy Burger will also be opening soon.

Yorkdale is a massive mall with plenty of shops worth checking out, so expect to spend a whole day shopping here!

LOCATION: 3401 Dufferin St, Toronto, ON

Best shopping in Toronto:

These were some of the best neighbourhoods and streets to go shopping in Toronto!

Whether you’re shopping for fun souvenirs or luxury goods, there are plenty of awesome shopping spots you can visit in the city.

If you’re looking for more things to do in the city, check out my posts on the most fun things to do in Toronto or free things to do in Toronto .

Have you shopped at any of these spots? What are your favourite places to go shopping in Toronto? Let me know on Twitter or Instagram !

Be sure to keep up with me on  Instagram , TikTok ,  Twitter , Facebook , and  Pinterest  if you aren’t already!

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Shopping in Toronto

11 Great Toronto Shopping Spots

Shopping in Toronto can fit any taste or budget

TripSavvy / Kristjan Veski 

A landing spot for many immigrants and a vast city rich with Canadian history, Toronto is home to one of the world's most diverse communities. Just a little over an hour and a half away from New York City by plane, and a bit closer to Detroit, Toronto has fantastic shopping, whether you're looking for retro bargain finds or upscale couture.

The capital of the province of Ontario, Toronto can be a gold mine for visiting shoppers, but beware of two things: the sales tax, and the weather. Mentally tack on about 1 3 percent to the price of clothing, housewares, souvenirs, and other goods, and bundle up (or find the PATH walkways) if you're visiting in winter, as temperatures drop to an average high of about 30 degrees Fahrenheit (minus 1 degree Celsius) from December through February.

The Toronto Eaton Centre

TripSavvy / Kristjan Veski

The Toronto Eaton Centre is a bright and airy shopping mall in the heart of Toronto's downtown that houses more than 230 stores—one of Canada's largest malls and, measured by visitors, consistently the city's biggest tourist attraction. The stores will appeal to the budget conscious and spendthrifts alike.

The mall has undergone several renovations over the years since it opened in 1977. The Toronto Eaton Centre connects underground with the Toronto PATH network of shops and businesses, making it great for cold or rainy days . More than just a place to shop, the multi-level, glass-domed Toronto Eaton Centre is home to several excellent places to eat and features a huge mobile of a flock of Canadian geese, Flight Stop , designed by artist Michael Snow.

Bloor-Yorkville

TripSavvy / Kristjan Veski 

The Yorkville neighborhood is a delightful anomaly in the midst of Toronto high-rises and shopping malls. Tucked into a pocket of downtown, the quaint Victorian architecture in Yorkville houses dozens of restaurants, boutiques, and art galleries. Bloor Street runs adjacent to Yorkville and features shopping that is upscale and includes high-end names like Holt Renfrew, Prada, Hermes, and Gucci.

Winners (Various Locations)

Raysonho Open Grid Scheduler / Grid Engine / Wikimedia Commons / Public Domain

Winners is much like TJ Maxx in the U.S., selling designer labels at up to 60 percent off regular prices. Stores are large and a lot of sorting and searching is required, but the payoff is often worth it. In addition, Winners has locations  throughout Toronto, making it an easy addition to any shopping trip you make.

Hudson's Bay Company

Canada's oldest corporation has several different store chains in Toronto and thousands across Canada. The flagship store is right across from the Toronto Eaton Centre. The Bay is a good old-fashioned department store, complete with everything from clothes to household items, and a place to have lunch. The Bay is particularly famous for its Hudson's Bay Blanket, sold for more than two centuries. The Bay also features a TOPSHOP women's clothing department from the popular U.K. retailer.

TripSavvy / Brakethrough Media 

Toronto has one of the largest Chinatown areas in North America. You will find bargains on exotic trinkets, jewelry, clothing, and household items. Plus, of course, where there's a bustling Chinatown, there's delicious food, and Toronto's Chinatown is no exception. There are numerous restaurants serving not just authentic Chinese, but also Vietnamese and other Asian fare. Chinatown runs along Spadina Avenue from King Street to College Street.

Queen Street

Queen Street cuts east/west through Toronto and morphs from funky retro to chic shops and restaurants to antique shopping to The Beaches district at the far east end. Especially famous for attracting shoppers is Queen Street West (University Avenue to Spadina Avenue): Edgy, hip, and trendy all describe this area of Toronto that also boasts some of the best-known clubs and cafes. The Queen Street West area has, in fact, become so popular that the truly bohemian have moved even further west to what is now known as West Queen West (between Bathurst Street and Niagara Street).

Kensington Market

Kensington Market is a favorite area in Toronto. If you're someone who wants to get away from high-rises and department stores, Kensington Market offers a nice respite from the usual big commercial trappings. Adjacent to Chinatown, Kensington Market has a plethora of retro shops, cheap and used clothing stores, cool cafes, furniture shops, great restaurants, and a variety of ethnic and organic produce stores.

St. Lawrence Market

Close to downtown and central to the historic St. Lawrence neighborhood, St. Lawrence Market includes the South Market, which has over 50 specialty food vendors and a gallery on the second floor, and the North Market, which carries on a tradition of over a century of hosting a Saturday Farmers' Market. On Sundays, more than 80 antique dealers fill the North Market building.

Yonge and Eglinton (Midtown)

Known as "Yonge and Eligible" due to the young professionals that frequent this area, Yonge and Eglinton is less pretentious than Bloor-Yorkville and offers cool, unique finds mixed with mainstream appeal. A mall and indoor shopping concourse are on the corner, or walk north on Yonge Street and peruse a variety of clothing, home decor, and bookstores. Buy yourself something pretty and head to one of the many area clubs and eateries to hang with the beautiful people. Yonge and Eglinton is about a 15-minute subway ride from Union Station or Eaton Centre on the Yonge-University line heading north.

For your indoor shopping pleasure, the PATH is an underground system of over 17 miles of walkways mainly running parallel to Yonge Street and Bay Street. Lined with stores, restaurants, and services, the PATH's atmosphere may be lacking, but on days when the weather is crummy, it's a good way to stay toasty and dry.

Vaughan Mills

Foreign visitors flock to Vaughan Mills , one of the largest malls in Canada, located beside Canada's Wonderland . It has almost 1.3 million square feet (110,000 square meters) of retail space. Vaughan Mills is open 362 days a year, closing only on Good Friday, Easter Sunday, and Christmas Day.

The Legoland Discovery Centre is an indoor family attraction located at the mall.

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THE 10 BEST Places to Go Shopping in Toronto

Shopping in toronto.

• Gift & Speciality Shops
• Art Galleries
• Shopping Malls
• Antique Stores
• Department Stores
• Flea & Street Markets
• Shopping Tours
• Fashion Shows & Tours
• Factory Outlets
• Farmers Markets
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Old Toronto
• Waterfront Communities-The Island
• Good for a Rainy Day
• Good for Kids
• Budget-friendly
• Good for Couples
• Good for Big Groups
• Hidden Gems
• Honeymoon spot
• Adventurous
• Good for Adrenaline Seekers
• Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

1. St. Lawrence Market

2. CF Toronto Eaton Centre

Recommended Shopping & Fashion Experiences (4)

3. Yorkdale Shopping Centre

4. Norma Reed

5. Yorkville Village

6. Scarborough Town Centre

7. Brookfield Place

8. Toronto Dominion Gallery of Inuit Art

9. Dufferin Mall

10. Bay of Spirits Gallery

11. The Power Plant

12. The Image Centre

13. Manulife Centre

14. First Canadian Place

15. Durdy Bayramov Art Foundation

16. Thompson Landry Gallery

18. Cynthia Findlay Fine Jewellery & Antiques

19. Bayview Village Shopping Centre

20. Toronto Christmas Market

21. CF Shops at Don Mills

22. Canvas Gallery

23. Carrot Common

24. Bernardi's Antiques

25. The Market Gallery

26. Abbozzo Gallery

27. Petroff Gallery

28. Queen's Quay Terminal

29. Immersive Van Gogh Exhibit

30. Sandra Ainsley Gallery

What travellers are saying

• Shopping Trip to Toronto Premium Outlets
• Hire Photographer, Professional Photo Shoot - Toronto
• Fashion Shopping Tour in Toronto with a Local Stylist
• St. Lawrence Market
• CF Toronto Eaton Centre
• Yorkville Village
• Yorkdale Shopping Centre
• Scarborough Town Centre
• Dufferin Mall
• Cynthia Findlay Fine Jewellery & Antiques
• Brookfield Place

THE 10 BEST Places to Go Shopping in Toronto

Shopping in toronto.

• Gift & Speciality Shops
• Art Galleries
• Shopping Malls
• Antique Stores
• Department Stores
• Flea & Street Markets
• Shopping Tours
• Fashion Shows & Tours
• Factory Outlets
• Farmers Markets
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Old Toronto
• Waterfront Communities-The Island
• Good for a Rainy Day
• Good for Kids
• Budget-friendly
• Good for Couples
• Good for Big Groups
• Hidden Gems
• Honeymoon spot
• Adventurous
• Good for Adrenaline Seekers
• Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

1. St. Lawrence Market

2. CF Toronto Eaton Centre

Recommended Shopping & Fashion Experiences (4)

3. Yorkdale Shopping Centre

4. Norma Reed

5. Yorkville Village

6. Scarborough Town Centre

7. Brookfield Place

8. Toronto Dominion Gallery of Inuit Art

9. Dufferin Mall

10. Bay of Spirits Gallery

11. The Power Plant

12. The Image Centre

13. Manulife Centre

14. First Canadian Place

15. Durdy Bayramov Art Foundation

16. Thompson Landry Gallery

18. Cynthia Findlay Fine Jewellery & Antiques

19. Bayview Village Shopping Centre

20. Toronto Christmas Market

21. CF Shops at Don Mills

22. Canvas Gallery

23. Carrot Common

24. Bernardi's Antiques

25. The Market Gallery

26. Abbozzo Gallery

27. Petroff Gallery

28. Queen's Quay Terminal

29. Immersive Van Gogh Exhibit

30. Sandra Ainsley Gallery

What travellers are saying

• Shopping Trip to Toronto Premium Outlets
• Hire Photographer, Professional Photo Shoot - Toronto
• Fashion Shopping Tour in Toronto with a Local Stylist
• St. Lawrence Market
• CF Toronto Eaton Centre
• Yorkville Village
• Yorkdale Shopping Centre
• Scarborough Town Centre
• Dufferin Mall
• Cynthia Findlay Fine Jewellery & Antiques
• Brookfield Place