Everywhere Ontario

35 Best Day Trips from London, Ontario 2023 (We’re Locals!)

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Are you looking for the best day trips from London, Ontario? As local Londoners, we’re here to help!

As locals of London for the last 15 years, we’ve honed our expertise in coming up the best places to visit around London, Ontario. And as avid explorers, we’ve managed to visit almost all of these day trip ideas on our list.

Let us take you around our backyard to the best tourist attractions, small towns, and other exciting places to day trip in Southwestern Ontario. Each place to visit is no more than 2 hours from London, and many are much closer.

Boler Mountain in London

Best Day Trips & Places to Visit Near London, Ontario

London is perfectly nestled between many of the best things to do in Southwestern Ontario. The area surrounding London is full of beautiful nature spots, historic sites, tourist attractions, and downright fun places to visit. Check out our top picks.

1. Guess Where Trips

Distance from London: Varies Price: $39 – $65 Location: View Trip Locations

Guess Where Trips offers incredible road trip ideas near London Ontario

If you’re looking for a spontaneous day trip near London, Ontario, you have got to check out Guess Where Trips . With an office located right in London, this local small-business is an expert on unique, one-day itineraries that blend mystery with exploration. 

When you buy a Guess Where Trips itinerary , you will pick an itinerary that hints to the type of journey you’ll embark on, and that gives you an approximate idea of the area you’ll be driving around.

Your itinerary comes equipped with envelopes that reveal each leg of the journey as you go, recommending stops and offering insider tips and discounts along the way. Think Amazing Race within your own backyard!

Because all of their itineraries are planned and ready to go, they make the perfect gift for someone who has it all or who loves adventure and spontaneity. We honestly think it’s the best new way to road trip around southwestern Ontario and see some of the best small towns and attractions in the area.

🗺️ Check out exciting Guess Where Trip itineraries close to you!

2. Clovermead Adventure Farm

Distance from London: 35 minutes Price: $20 (online rate), $27 (walk-in) Location: Google Maps Link

Clovemead Adventure Farm is a very fun thing to do near London Ontario!

Clovermead Adventure Farm is one of the best adventure farms in Southwestern Ontario, and it’s located in Aylmer, just half an hour outside of London. At Clovermead, you’ll get to explore to animals, rides, play equipment, splashpad, fun farm-inspired educational attractions, and so much more.

And of course, a trip to this farm wouldn’t be complete without watching the bees do their busy work of creating honey right in front of your eyes! Make sure you also walk through the gift shop and taste free samples of delicious honey, and pick up some to go as a perfect souvenir of your visit to the farm.

We visited Clovermead last year with some friends and had a blast. The kids had hours of fun exploring and connecting with nature. If you’ve been raised in the city, there’s nothing like a trip to the farm, and Clovermead is just the place to visit near London to accomplish just that.

3. Apple Land Station

Distance from London: 20 minutes Price: $6-9 (Kids 2 and under are free) + additional for Apple Picking Location: Google Maps Link

Apple Land Station is one of the best tourist attractions near London Ontario

One of our new favourite attractions near London, Ontario is Apple Land Station in Thames Centre. As parents of a busy toddler, we are always on the lookout for fun outdoor activities that are reasonably priced, educational and hands-on. If that’s you too, Apple Land Station does not disappoint! 

With a fun outdoor adventure area (with play equipment, a massive sand pile, petting zoo and more) and the chance to pick-your-own apples in their orchards, kids will easily be entertained for hours here. Our son particularly loved the “train” (wagon) ride to the orchards and the barn of animals to observe.

Even if you’re not coming with kids, Apple Land Station is a great place to visit near London for adults and older kids. It’s one of the only places to go apple picking close to the city, and has a seriously tempting indoor market with produce, freshly baked goods and tons more.

With affordable weekday discounts and reasonable prices all season long, Apple Land Station is one of our new go-to tourist attractions near London for the summer and fall seasons.

4. Greenview Aviaries Park and Zoo

Distance from London: 1 hour Price: Adults – $17; Kids – $12.50 Location: Google Maps Link

Peacock in Zoo

Greenview Aviaries Park and Zoo is an incredible local gem not only for its spectacular array of exotic birds and wildlife, but also for its park features that make it so much more than just a zoo. If you have kids around, this is one of the best places to visit near London, Ontario.

Greenview Aviaries has an extensive picnic and playground area, including a splash pad, jungle gym, mini zipline, and kids’ ball pit.

After visiting the animals and playing in the kids’ zone, don’t forget to walk through the miniature Shakespeareland before heading back home to London. This place can get very busy in the summer, but for good reason!

5. Treetop Trekking in Binbrook Conservation Area

Distance from London: 1 hour 25 minutes Price: Zipline + Aerial Game Trek – $47-$64; other activities – various Location: Google Maps Link

Treetop Trekking is an awesome activity in London Ontario!

Get ready to find your inner kid (and inner Tarzan) as you climb and swing across the canopy at Treetop Trekking !

This adventure park is located in Binbrook Conservation Area, just outside of Hamilton (in addition to other locations throughout Ontario).

Treetop Trekking is most well-known for its ziplines and aerial courses, consisting of suspended bridges, balance cables, netted walkways, Tarzan swings and more.

There are also courses geared towards younger kids, making this a fun place for all ages. Not for the faint of heart and definitely for those ready for a thrill!

6. African Lion Safari

Distance from London: 1 hour 15 minutes Price: Adults – $33.95 + tax; Kids – $18.95 + tax (discount if purchased online) Location: Google Maps Link

African Lion in Zoo

African Lion Safari is another top tourist attraction close to London, Ontario. For many of us, it’s the closest thing we will ever get to seeing exotic animals in the wild. There are over 1000 species of animals and birds on over 750 acres of land.

What makes the African Lion Safari so unique compared to other zoos is that there are seven game reserves, where the animals roam freely while you drive around in your vehicle or on the park safari bus! There is also a lake cruise to see monkeys, lemurs, water foul and more!

The African Lion Safari will definitely be a memory to remember. If you choose to bring your own vehicle through the reserves, beware of possible damage that may be done (especially by the monkeys).

7. Twin Valley Zoo Brantford

Distance from London: 1 hour Price: Adults – $20; Kids – $10.50 Location: Google Maps Link

Tiger in Zoo

Brantford’s Twin Valley Nature Park provides an excellent opportunity to see over 80 species of animals and birds up close and personal.

Regular admission or guided tour options are available during the spring-fall months. The Twin Valley Nature Park is a smaller, family run park that comes at an affordable price, making it a great place to visit near London.

Twin Valley Nature Park also offers summer Nature Camps for kids!

8. Hot Air Balloon Ride

Distance from London: 20-25 min Price: $240-$300 + tax per person Location: Sundance Balloons ; Cloud Chasers Balloon Rides

Hot Air Balloon Ride is one of the best day trips from London, Ontario

Nothing says thrill quite like floating through the sky in an open bucket at 2000 feet!

If that catches your attention then you may just find your next day trip being to Sundance Balloons in Belmont, or Cloud Chasers Balloon Rides in Thorndale. Skyward Balloons even features options to parachute from the balloon or flying in Cold War Jets!

Other options a bit further away from London include Skyward Balloons in Cambridge, or Air Display in Barrie.

9. Niagara Falls & Niagara-on-the-Lake

Distance from London: 2 hours Price: Free Location: Google Maps Link

Niagara Falls is one of the best day trips from London, Ontario

Niagara Falls is easily one of Canada’s largest tourist attractions, and unofficially the 8th Wonder of the World for its truly unique geological features and colossal falls.

If you’ve never spent time at the falls, take heart in knowing there are a ton of free and affordable things to do, along with many well-loved tours for the best experience.

As a budget-friendly option, we recommend spending time at the top of the falls outside the Table Rock Welcome Centre, checking out the entertainment on Clifton Hill, and spending time in the Niagara Parks Botanical Gardens.

If you’re driving to the falls on your own, you’ll want to know that visiting the falls up close is free, other than paying for parking. Check out this Guide to Parking for all of the best spots (and even some free ones!).

Another popular way to see the Niagara region is to explore the scenic wine region of Niagara-on-the-Lake . You can easily visit multiple wineries and take a stroll through the picturesque downtown for a quaint day out.

✅ Check out our guide to the best hotels, inns and resorts in Niagara-on-the-Lake .

10. Toronto

Toronto Downtown is one of the best places to go near London, Ontario

Tourists rarely make it far in Ontario without paying a visit to Ontario’s capital city of Toronto. It’s only to be expected that downtown Toronto falls on our list of must-do day trips from London.

Toronto boasts many world-class tourists attractions, museums, educational centers, and parks. The CN Tower is often high on the list of things to see in Toronto, with many people enjoying a visit to the top and a walk on the famous glass floor.

You can also book admission tickets in advance to places like the Royal Ontario Museum , Hockey Hall of Fame and Art Gallery of Ontario , which are some of Toronto’s most popular destinations.

If you’re on a tight budget, we recommend spending time soaking in the busy city streets by walking through some of Toronto’s famous districts, like the Distillery District, Kensington Market, Chinatown, Cabbagetown, and the Waterfront District.

We also enjoy shopping at some of Toronto’s eclectic vintage and thrift stores or walking through the popular Eaton Centre mall.

A good compromise between budget travelling Toronto and seeing the most of the city is to book a walking tour. Because you’re cutting out the need for transportation, the cost goes way down, but you still get the benefit of a guide to show you some of the most interesting parts of the city.

Looking for the best Toronto tours? ✅ Best ‘Spirited’ Tour: Best Distillery District Walking Tour 🍜 Foodies’ Favourite: Kensington Market International Food Walking Tour 🚴‍♀️ Best Bike Tour: Downtown Toronto Bike Tour

If you have the time, we also recommend catching a roundtrip ferry ride ($8.50 per adult) to the Toronto Island for unique attractions and stellar views of the Toronto skyline!

Finally, if you are truly a thrill-seeker, you will want to make sure to check out Canada’s Wonderland for the best rollercoasters in Ontario!

Just be prepared that driving in Toronto can be hectic to say the least. Planning your trip around rush hour is definitely a wise idea, and if time allows, consider booking a hotel overnight so you can experience the best of Toronto at night .

Staying in Toronto overnight? Check out one of these top downtown hotels: ✅Best Luxury Hotel:  Ritz-Carlton Toronto ✅Best Budget Hotel:  Holiday Inn Express Toronto Downtown

11. St Jacob’s Farmer’s Market & Flea Market

Distance from London: 1 hour 15 minutes Price: Free Location: Google Maps Link

Farmers Market

St. Jacob’s Farmer’s Market is Canada’s largest year-round farmer’s market and flea market ! There are hundreds of local food, craft and antique vendors here, many who come from Kitchener-Waterloo’s respected Old Order Mennonite communities.

Not only will you easily enjoy browsing many fresh, local and homemade foods and goods, you will also have the chance to step into a different culture as you see people arriving by horse and buggy. Enjoy diversity on many levels at St. Jacob’s for a truly unique shopping experience!

12. U-Pick Fruit Farms

Distance from London: Various Price: Pay for produce picked Location: Various

Picking Blueberries near London Ontario

Without a doubt, trips to local pick-your-own fruit (and vegetable) farms are always a highlight of our summers. Most offer free admission and often even cheaper prices than you will find in stores, making U-Pick experiences an easy win on a summer day out.

Many farms also sell other ready-picked produce and some even offer additional fun activities for kids!

Here are a few local pick-your-own fruit farms close to London for you to check out this year: Millar Berry Farm (U-Pick Strawberries, Raspberries, Apples) – London Heeman’s Berry Farm (U-Pick Strawberries) – London Talbotville Berry Farm (U-Pick Strawberries) – Talbotville Apple Land Station (Apple Picking) – Thorndale Gabriel Fresh Produce (U-Pick Vegetables) – Komoka Kustermans Family Farm (U-Pick Blueberries) – Mount Brydges Olde Drive Blueberry Farm (U-Pick Blueberries) – Mount Brydges *cash only Park’s Blueberries (U-Pick Blueberries) – Bothwell Blueberry Hill Estates (U-Pick Blueberries) – St. Williams Arrowwood Farm (U-Pick Blueberries) – Melbourne

13. St Mary’s Quarry

Distance from London: 35 minutes Price: $7 per adult; $4.50 per child/youth Location: Google Maps Link

Swimming

St Mary’s Quarry is Ontario’s largest freshwater outdoor swimming pool! Swimming here is truly an experience you will not forget. No sandy beaches to contend with, no fear of currents, just a wide open body of fresh water surrounded with beautiful rocky cliffs and fish swimming below you.

Swimmers can have fun cliff jumping, floating on rafts, and renting stand-up paddleboards ($10). Additional activities (water trampoline, beach volleyball and slides) are subject to restrictions applicable at the time of visiting.

Advanced reservations are required online. The Quarry is expected to be open each year from early July to Labour Day.

14. Erieau Beach

Distance from London: 1 hour 20 minutes Price: Free Location: Google Maps Link

Erieau Pier on Erieau Beach is one of the best day trips from London, Ontario

Erieau is one of Lake Erie’s hidden gems. Erieau is the perfect place to escape to the beach without having to contend with the large crowds and hiked prices that you will find at many beaches closer to Ontario’s larger cities. The village comes alive in the summers, as it is home to many cottagers.

The Erieau Public Beach has great swimming and good amenities for families, such as a pavilion, playground, skatepark and public washrooms.

We recommend enjoying some wood-fired pizza and local craft beer, or some fresh-caught perch or pickerel before making your way back to London. This little village really is the perfect place to retreat to the beach!

👉 Check out our Ultimate Vacation Guide to Erieau .

15. Long Point Provincial Park

Distance from London: 1 hour 20 minutes Price: Day use – $15.50 per vehicle Location: Google Maps Link

Sandy Beach

If you like long walks on the beach, then Long Point Provincial Park is for you. With 2 km of beautiful sandy beaches slowly leading out into shallow warm waters, Long Point is called by many the best beach in Ontario .

As you might expect, Long Point Provincial Park’s main attraction is its pristine sandy beaches leading out to a 40 km sand spit into Lake Erie. While it’s not possible for visitors to access the far tip of the park by foot, you can catch a boat tour that does just that.

The park also offers campgrounds, hiking trails, a bird observatory and many other activities to keep you busy.

We also recommend spending the day, or even booking an overnight glamping stay at Long Point Eco-Adventures .

This glamping and adventure resort gets our vote for one of the top family resorts in Ontario , as it’s filled with fun activities like ziplining, axe throwing, canoeing and kayaking, stargazing and touring the bee apiary and foraging for mushrooms.

Stop in nearby Port Rowan for beach town shopping or at Turkey Point for another fantastic sandy beach.

16. Goderich & Bayfield

Distance from London: 1 hour – 1 hour 20 minutes Price: Free Location: Google Maps Link

Bayfield Ontario

Goderich has been known for over 100 years as the “Prettiest Town in Canada.” The town butts up against the bluffs of Lake Huron, making for spectacular waterfront views, and of course, popular beaches. With well-kept historic buildings, cute boutique shopping, and local fine dining, a day out in Goderich is easily enjoyed.

Check out our full post on Goderich Beach activities so you can be convinced that this town is worth visiting!

Bayfield is another tourist town about 15 minutes south of Goderich, along the shores or Lake Huron. With popular beaches, shoreline walking trails and thriving local businesses, Bayfield makes for a perfect pair with Goderich for your next summer road trip.

17. Grand Bend

Distance from London: 1 hour Price: Free Location: Google Maps Link

Grand Bend Beach is one of the best day trips from London, Ontario

Grand Bend is one of Ontario’s most popular beach destinations. If you’re looking for a crowd, busy main street shopping, and no shortage of ways to have fun this summer, you’re likely due for a trip to Grand Bend.

Grand Bend definitely attracts a young crowd and has a reputation for its beach nightlife. Many have made this their go-to summer beach for good reason!

If you’re looking for camping near Grand Bend, consider booking a site at the Pinery Provincial Park , less than 10 minutes from town.

👉 Read more at in our full guide to what to do at Grand Bend Beach .

18. Port Stanley

Distance from London: 40 minutes Price: Free Location: Google Maps Link

GT's on the Beach, Port Stanley Main Beach

Port Stanley is our go-to beach destination each summer. While there are many fantastic beaches close to London, we find the atmosphere here to be exactly what we crave.

For us, Port Stanley has the perfect mix of a bustling sandy beach, warm Lake Erie waters, and the fantastic GT’s on the Beach where you can enjoy a drink while you sink your toes in the sand.

Nothing comes closer to our memories of our travels to the Caribbean than spending an evening here, where some of the locals have even planted their own palm trees! 

Only a 40 minute drive from London, Port Stanley is the perfect place to relax on a weekday evening or for a full day out. 

👉 We’ve written a full guide to Port Stanley Beach and what to do nearby.

19. Underground Railroad Museums (Chatham-Kent & Essex)

Distance from London: Each approx. 1 hour 30 minutes Price: Various Location: Uncle Tom’s Cabin ; Buxton Museum ; John Freeman Walls Historic Site ; Amherstburg Freedom Museum

Painting of African Slaves

Grow in your understanding of the great freedom movement that has forever shaped North America by visiting some of Ontario’s well-preserved Underground Railroad Sites and Museums.

Hear the stories of the notable Josiah Henson ( Uncle Tom’s Cabin ) and other Black refugees from the American slave trade who bravely escaped into Upper Canada through the Underground Railroad.

View 1800s artifacts and historic buildings at the Elgin (Buxton) Settlement ( Buxton National Historic Site & Museum ), and walk through the old log cabin built and lived in by the fugitive slave John Freeman Walls ( John Freeman Walls Historic Site ).

Learn about Black history in one of the key entry points, Amherstburg, into Canada for fleeing slaves ( Amherstburg Freedom Museum ).

Visit one or many of these incredibly sites to gain an appreciation of the tremendous journeys braved by many Black slaves in our recent past.

20. Stratford

Distance from London: 50 minutes Price: Free Location: Google Maps Link

Actors in Theatre

Stratford is another one of Southwestern Ontario’s charming small-town destinations, and for good reason.

Most known for its live performance Avon Theatre and Stratford Festival, this town, which shares a name with Shakespeare’s hometown of Stratford-upon-Avon, understandably has a fascination with the great Elizabethan writer. 

Whether you choose to enjoy a live theatre show or simply walk the picturesque streets of this historic town, we think you will find your trip to Stratford relaxing and enjoyable. 

Oh yes, and if you happen to be a foodie, we recommend catching a food tour and definitely making a stop at Rheo Thompson Candies for their famous gourmet chocolates.

Tip: If you’re ever on the lookout for great Canadian gifts to send overseas , Rheo Thompson chocolates are a uniquely local, Canadian option!

Paris, Ontario is one of the best day trips from London

Paris, Ontario (not to be confused with the one in France!) is the epitome of historic, picturesque town. While this town is quaint, it does not lack allure for visiting tourists.

From local food tours , to historic cobblestone tours, to viewing the “Lighting of the Paris Falls” of Penman’s Dam, to whitewater rafting on the Grand River, this little town knows the value of keeping its visitors wined, dined, relaxed and ready to return next time.

22. Cambridge Butterfly Conservatory

Distance from London: 1 hour Price: Adults (13+) – $20; Kids – $8 Location: Google Maps Link

Cambridge Butterfly Conservatory is one of the best places to go near London, Ontario

Walk through a majestic tropical garden filled with over 2000 exotic butterflies and moths inside the Cambridge Butterfly Conservatory . With over 40 different species, originating mostly from Costa Rica or the Philippines, you will rarely come across an opportunity like this to be so up close with these charming creatures. 

Kids will not only love seeing real butterflies in each stage of metamorphosis, they will also have the chance to learn about other insects and arthropods, spot exotic birds flying through the gardens, and of course hope for a butterfly to land on them!

If spending the day in an enchanted tropical garden sounds like the perfect way to spend the day out, you will not be disappointed at the Cambridge Butterfly Conservatory.

Just remember to wear bright colours so the butterflies will want to come close!

23. Dorchester Mill Pond

Distance from London: 20 minutes Price: Free Location: Google Maps Link

Dorchester Mill Pond

The Dorchester Mill Pond is a perfect place for a half-day nature adventure just outside of London. The Mill Pond Trail is a 3.3 km loop around, you guessed it, Mill Pond. 

Admission and parking are free. There’s also a picnic and playground area just beside the parking lot, so pack a lunch and set out on this nature adventure! While you’re at it, why not have some fun with a nature scavenger hunt for the kids!

24. Wildwood Conservation Area

Distance from London: 40 minutes Price: In season – $15 per car (off season – free during daytime open hours) Location: Google Maps Link

Canoeing

Wildwood Conservation Area is located between the quaint towns of St. Mary’s and Stratford. Wildwood is another fantastic option for getting out on the water and soaking in Ontario’s fabulous nature. 

Like Fanshawe Conservation Area, Wildwood offers water sports, camping (even back country camping!), and a hiking and biking trail (Lake Trail) for 25 km around the perimeter of Wildwood Reservoir. 

25. Rock Glen Conservation Area

Distance from London: 45 minutes Price: $4 per person (kids 5 and under free) Location: Google Maps Link

Rock Glen Falls, Arkona

Rock Glen Conservation Area is a unique and exhilarating choice for a day trip close to London. This site is home to a picturesque 10.7 m tall waterfall, and happens to be a hot spot for prehistoric Devonian era fossils! 

It’s charming, romantic, adventurous, and not far from the beaches of Lake Huron. We think Rock Glen Falls is perfect to pair with an afternoon on the beach at Pinery Provincial Park, Ipperwash Beach , or Grand Bend . 

 👉 Read more from our day trip to Rock Glen Conservation Area .

26. Cheltenham Badlands

Distance from London: 1 hour 50 minutes Price: $10 reservation fee + $10-$15 parking fee Location: Google Maps Link

The badlands? You’re not the only one who thought this was only a thing of the mid-west. Located just outside the town of Caledon, it’s these unique red clay hills that make the Cheltenham Badlands worth the drive.

Although taking in the sight from the viewing platform is the main attraction here, there are also some hiking trails that to make your visit more complete: the Badlands Trail (0.3 km) and the Bruce Trail (1.3 km). 

We recommend pairing up a trip to the badlands with some unique shopping or fine dining in Caledon, or even more hiking at Forks of the Credit Provincial Park . Consider adding on something fun to do in Brampton if you’re looking for just a little more to round out your day!

27. Hamilton Waterfalls

Distance from London: Various (approx 1 hour 20 minutes) Price: various

Webster Falls

Not only is Hamilton home to many of Ontario’s most beautiful waterfalls , it’s is known as the “Waterfall Capital of the World!”

There are over 100 waterfalls in and around the city of Hamilton, and many of them are in very well maintained conservation areas. For nature lovers, Hamilton is one of the best places to go near London for endless opportunities to explore the outdoors.

Many of the waterfalls easily accessible and close to parking, and others will require a bit of a hike to reach. Of course, because the falls are fueled by rainwater, we recommend visiting in spring and fall! 

Here are 9 of the best-rated waterfalls in the Hamilton area: Sherman Falls Borer’s Falls Buttermilk Falls Chedoke Falls Tiffany Falls Albion Falls Webster Falls Tew Falls Devil’s Punchbowl

Hamilton definitely has all of the best waterfalls near London and is worth a day trip for the adventurous soul!

 👉 See our complete guide to Dundas Peak, Tew Falls and Webster Falls .

28. Rondeau Provincial Park

Distance from London: 1 hour 10 minutes Price: April-October – $18 per car; October-March – $11.25 per car Location: Google Maps Link

Hiking trail

Rondeau Provincial Park makes for an excellent day trip, especially if you are an avid birder or have kids who are eager to get their hands dirty exploring nature. 

Rondeau is a peninsula jutting into Lake Erie (and Rondeau Bay) and for that reason its marshy wetland is an important spot for many species of birds during their migration. In fact, over 330 species of birds have been spotted here! Rondeau is also home to Canada’s largest remnant Carolinian forest. 

The park Visitor Centre runs a Discovery Program for kids from spring to fall, with hands-on activities and hikes with naturalists. Rondeau has 6 hiking trails ranging from 1.2 km to 8 km, and 11 km of sandy beach. Rondeau Bay is also a popular spot for fishing. 

Whether you come for the day, or choose to camp here overnight, we highly recommend a trip to Rondeau Provincial Park this summer!

29. Point Pelee National Park

Distance from London: 1 hour 50 minutes Price: April-October – $7.90 per adult (0-17 are free); November-March – $6.10 per adult Location: Google Maps Link

Monarch Butterfly

Ever wanted to go to the southernmost tip of Canada? No problem! Point Pelee National Park is less than 2 hours from London, and is totally worth the drive! 

Point Pelee is Canada’s most ecologically diverse national park, with marshy wetlands, cedar savannah, and drylands, and home to over 390 species of birds! Plan your visit during the fall monarch butterfly migration for a spectacular experience you will never forget. 

We highly recommend a long, slow stroll along Marsh Boardwalk and Tower, canoeing or kayaking the marshes, hiking some of the 12 km of trails, and of course, taking the shuttle to the tip of the peninsula.

Enjoy swimming along the 20 km of sandy beaches, and maybe camp the night in one of the park’s unique oTENTik structures!

If you’ve got a real sense of adventure, consider planning your trip to be on one of the designated stargazing nights when the park is open until midnight. Point Pelee is, after all, a Dark Sky Preserve and offers incredibly opportunity to view the starry skies above.

If you’re up a 2-day trip from London to go a little bit further south, consider heading to Pelee Island ! Pelee Island is officially Canada’s southernmost inhabited area, and the birthplace of winemaking in Canada.

👉 We visited Pelee Island and wrote all about it on our guide to touring Pelee Island .

30. Town of Elora & Elora Gorge

Distance from London: 1 hour 30 minutes Price: Elora Gorge – $7.50 per adult; $3 per child 6+ Location: Quarry Location ; Elora Gorge Location

Elora Mill Hotel & Spa is one of the top places to go in Southern Ontario.

One of the most beautiful natural areas in Southwestern Ontario is without a doubt the Elora Gorge and the town of Elora. This conservation area is a great place to enjoy the wonder of the Grand River and its gorge that sits surrounded by steep rock cliffs and forests. 

The Grand River includes some intense rapids, and in case you haven’t heard, tubing or white water kayaking is a big thing here! We also recommend a hike at the Elora Gorge (3 km of trails).

If you prefer to keep both feet on dry ground, consider exploring the quaint town of Elora, topped off with dinner in the Elora Mill Hotel & Spa , or even booking an overnight package.

The Elora Quarry , just minutes away from the Elora Gorge, is another attraction of the town. The quarry is a large swim hole surrounded by the area’s steep cliffs.

Day Trips in London, Ontario (Without Leaving the City)

Does just thinking of packing up the car and hitting the road have you tired and worn out? 

There are a lot of awesome attractions and activities in London, Ontario that don’t require leaving the city!

Shop at one of the exciting farmer’s markets or visit a new coffee shop you’ve never been to. Head to some of London’s many thrift stores , plan a romantic date on the town , or spend the day shopping at Masonville Mall .

Here’s our pick for the top things to do in London, Ontario that you could make a full or half day trip out of.

31. Boler Mountain

Distance from London: 15 minutes Price: Ski Day Pass – $34-$71 + tax; Treetop Adventure Park – $35-$53 + tax Location: Google Maps Link

Boler Mountain in London is one of the best day trips from London, Ontario

Boler Mountain is London’s very own solution for fun for both winter and summer thrill-seekers. With skiing, snowboarding and tubing in the winter months, to the Treetop Adventure Park, mountain bike trails, and beach volleyball in the green months, Boler Mountain easily one of the top tourist attractions in Southwestern Ontario.

While you may have no trouble remembering Boler for its ski hills, keep this local gem in mind throughout the spring-fall for an aerial course and zipline that come at a reasonable price, so close to home.

32. East Park London

Distance from London: In London Price: Various (depending on activity); Waterpark only – $6-$28, age dependent Location: Google Maps Link

East Park is your perfect choice for something to do in London that is super fun for kids and adults. The popular waterpark includes large slides, splashpad and a wave pool.

Visitors can choose to only pay for admission to the waterpark, or to purchase access to specific indoor and outdoor activities such as Go Karts, rock climbing, mini golf, batting cages, bumper cars, arcade, and jungle gym.

If you’re looking for a full day of fun, this day trip option has enough to keep everyone well entertained.

33. Fanshawe Pioneer Village

Distance from London: In London Price: $10 Adults; $7 Kids Location: Google Maps Link

Fanshawe Pioneer Village is one of the best day trips from London, Ontario

Fanshawe Pioneer Village is a delightful step back in time! In a truly unique way, visitors will be immersed in the stories of locals who lived in London and its surrounding rural communities during the period of 1820-1920. 

Kids will especially enjoy the hands-on experience of trying out old-fashioned games and chores as they walk through old-time homes and farm yards.

Fanshawe Pioneer Village is also a beautiful place to host events such as weddings. We’ve had the chance to experience this ourselves, and the entire experience was truly incredible!

34. Fanshawe Conservation Area

Distance from London: In London Price: In Season – $15 per car (off season – free during daytime open hours) Location: Google Maps Link

Fanshawe Conservation Area

Fanshawe Conservation Area is one of London’s best places to get out and explore nature. So much can be done here even without having to leave the city! 

Fanshawe Conservation Area offers camp sites (for both tent and trailer camping), canoe/kayak rentals, fishing, boat launch docks, a large day use picnic/BBQ area with pavilion rentals, and over 20 km of gorgeous hiking and biking trails that run the perimeter of Fanshawe Lake. Perfect for adults, kids, groups in all seasons!

👉 Check out our review of London’s best trails , including at Fanshawe Conservation Area.

35. Museum of Ontario Archaeology

Distance from London: In London Price: Adults – $5; Children – $3 Location: Google Maps Link

Dream Catcher

The Museum of Ontario Archaeology is educational for visitors of all ages, as it steps you back in time to learn about human history within Ontario for the last 13,000 years.

With the permanent on-site exhibit of a 500-year old village and a reconstructed longhouse, visitors can grow in their understanding of and appreciation for the way of life for some of Canada’s early indigenous peoples. 

Combined with other permanent and featured exhibits, the Museum of Ontario Archaeology is a highly valuable experience for learners of all ages.

Best Hotels in London, Ontario

Whether you’re visiting London or just thinking of booking a staycation in the city, here’s our top recommendations for hotels that will get you feeling like you’re on a getaway while still being close to home.

Best Western Plus Lamplighter Inn & Conference Centre ($$)

Best Western Lamplighter Inn in London is one of the best places to stay in London, Ontario

⭐Rated: 8.5/10 Stars (Booking.com)

This family-friendly hotel in London is beautiful furnished and well-maintained and features an amazing indoor pool and waterslide. The pool is set in a tropical atrium, which adds to the feeling of a real vacation without leaving London.

We’ve stayed here for a wedding and had an awesome experience. The rooms were comfortable and clean, and the indoor atrium was a welcomed bright spot in the dead of winter.

✔️ Book Best Western Plus Lamplighter Inn

The Idlewyld Inn & Spa ($$$)

⭐Rated: 9.1/10 Stars (Booking.com)

This Victorian era Inn is set in London’s picturesque Old South neighbourhood, just minutes from downtown. Featuring beautiful decored rooms, each with a private bath, your stay at the Idlewyld Inn will be luxurious, cozy and comfortable.

With an alluring spa and intimate restaurant onsite, you won’t even need to leave the Inn grounds to make the most of your stay.

✔️ Book Idlewyld Inn & Spa

👉 For more hotels, check out our full review of the best places to stay in London, Ontario .

Wrap Up: 35 Best Day Trips from London, Ontario

There are truly so many amazing places to see and things to do in Southwestern Ontario, that it is hard to narrow down a list.

If you’re looking for more inspiration, check out our full list of posts on Ontario beaches , or check our all of the posts we’ve written from our travels around Ontario .

We hope that you will find inspiration from our list of favourites and wish you many fun-filled road trips ahead!

Erie

Erie is the owner and author of Everywhere Ontario. She’s lived and traveled around Ontario for over 30 years, visiting small towns and big cities from the shores of Lake Erie to the crisp northern air of Hearst along the Trans-Canada Highway. She is passionate about maximizing fun and supporting local tourist businesses and is always looking to provide the best recommendations to her fellow Ontario travelers. Read more about Erie here .

Ontario Away

Great Ideas for Weekend Getaways in Ontario (+ Mini Itineraries)

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

There Are Plenty of Great Ideas for Weekend Getaways in Ontario!

If you’re looking for a weekend getaway in Ontario, you’re certainly in luck! Ontario is loaded with amazing places to visit , attractions to explore, and things to try so there is no shortage of weekend trip ideas.

No matter where you are travelling from – Ottawa, Toronto, etc – and whatever your style – romantic, fun, relaxing, adventure – there is a getaway for you.

We really like exploring Ontario on mini-vacations or weekend road trips since there are essentially endless options. While we usually travel as a couple, lots of the getaway ideas mentioned below can also work for families with kids or even groups of friends.

We’ve done our fair share of last-minute weekend getaways and still managed to find great ideas with nice accommodations for a good price!

So, whether you are looking for romantic getaways near Toronto or staycation getaway ideas that take you on an adventure, here are our detailed mini-weekend itineraries for you to enjoy.

From hiking and beaches to wineries or spas, here’s our detailed guide on some of the best weekend getaways in Ontario – in summer or winter!

Table of Contents

Relax at an Ontario Resort, Inn, or Spa

large historic inn sitting on the side of reflective river with autumn colours around.

If you’ve been working hard and just want to get away and indulge in total relaxation, there are plenty of resort or inn-style accommodations in Ontario to do that!

Ontario has a nice mix of inns with spas as well as quiet lodge resorts that can take you away from the city and exchange it for nature. This goes for the summer or the winter season!

Below are a number of resorts and inns that you can have a look at. Many of these also make for a great girls’ weekend getaway in Ontario. You can find these accommodations all around the province from Niagara-on-the-Lake to Collingwood, the Ottawa Valley, Muskoka, and more.

We even have a whole guide dedicated to where to stay in Muskoka (with great resorts) if that is where you are looking to go. If you want great inns all around Ontario, we have also a round-up on the best inns in Ontario .

snowy chalet building in winter sitting at the bottom of ski hill covered in snow.

Blue Mountain Resort

As the largest ski resort in Ontario, Blue Mountain certainly has a reputation to be a fantastic weekend getaway in any season. If you’re looking to relax, they offer spa packages and bundles that are sure to make you forget the stressful work week.

If you want to head up to Collingwood for the weekend, you can stay right in the main village at Blue – and don’t forget about booking a time at the famous Scandinave Spa .

cars parked in parking lot in front of red brick buildings with blue sky above.

Pillar and Post Inn & Spa

For a great getaway inn/hotel located in a top wine region, head for the Pillar and Post Inn and Spa .

Located just a short walk from the heart of downtown Niagara-on-the-Lake, Eric has stayed here before and loved it. They have pools, onsite dining, and spa facilities.

Heather Lodge Inn

For a more remote and tranquil escape, head for Heather Lodge Inn . Located in Minden, this more lodge-style getaway is adults-only and offers onsite dining as well as boat rentals and canoeing.

The Haliburton Highlands are a great place for a getaway to reconnect with nature and enjoy peace and quiet.

JW Marriott at Lake Rosseau

Last but not least, you can have a classic Muskoka resort experience at The JW Marriott at Lake Rosseau . Perched on a granite bluff, the Marriott is a secluded resort tucked away in Ontario’s wilderness overlooking Lake Rosseau.

They offer spa packages for couples that include the usage of their “couples-designated” spa areas – making the JW a good stop for a spa weekend getaway in Ontario. Also good to note: This kind of weekend trip can be done in summer or in the winter!

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Discover one of Ontario’s Wine Regions

woman standing beside fountain in front of winery.

Did you know that Ontario is one of Canada’s top wine-producing areas? You’d be surprised how many didn’t! When it comes to producing great wine, we can thank the geography of the province.

The lakes, the soil, the geographical feature that is the Niagara Escarpment – there are so many factors that allow Ontario to make wine. And that means that you get to enjoy it!

We really like wine (and beer, for that matter) so it’s fun for us to go to wineries, learn about them, and enjoy a few tastings. Winery hopping can also be a part of a romantic weekend getaway in Ontario or a classic girls’ weekend getaway.

So if you are looking to indulge in the province through its wine and the locals who make it, here are a number of suggestions for top wine regions in Ontario. These also make for great fall getaway ideas since you get to enjoy the autumn colours and the harvest season!

colourful small town buildings with main road with cars parked and large clocktower in the middle.

Niagara on the Lake

Yes, Niagara on the Lake is first. This fertile area is a mecca for wine-making – and the greater Niagara Peninsula has even more wineries to visit. You can drive around to the dozens of Niagara on the Lake wineries or you can hop on a guided winery tour (recommended). There are many to visit but we like Ravine if you are looking for a suggestion. To make the most of the weekend, you should stay in Niagara-on-the-Lake (the historic town). That way, you can enjoy the town as well as the wineries around.

We like the Pillar and Post Inn and Spa but we also have a guide on Niagara on the Lake accommodations if you want to learn more!

small colourful building in town centre with cars parked on street in front.

Prince Edward County

Another great wine region is Prince Edward County. There are a number of wineries to visit like Sandbanks Estate or Trail Estate . There are dozens so check out our article on wineries in Prince Edward County . You can join a guided tour to the wineries but you can also drive or bike to them yourself. If you head for The County, there are lots of other things to do while on a weekend trip. You can stay in the town of Picton for easy accessibility to restaurants and shops. Stay at the Merrill House for a great location in Picton or the Newsroom Suites for a nice stay in the town of Wellington. We have a guide on where to stay in Prince Edward County if you are interested. Those interested in beer should read our PEC breweries and cideries guide !

Grey County

When people think about Ontario wine, many don’t know that the area just south of Georgian Bay – Grey County – is home to a number of wineries (as well as breweries and cideries). The vast amount of shoreline is also a nice draw to this region and makes for a lovely weekend getaway for couples in Ontario. With top stops like Coffin Ridge Vineyard & Winery and Mudtown Station Brewery and Restaurant in the heart of Owen Sound, it’s a great area to wander about.

The Inn at Cobble Beach makes for a wonderful getaway by the water.

Have an Outdoor Action Adventure

Considering Ontario is huge and full of different terrain – dense forests, tall cliffs, and raging rivers – there are lots of great locations in Ontario to get away and enjoy being a kid again in the outdoors.

Specifically, there are a number of adventure-based activities you can try out all over the province.

The nice thing about adventure getaways in Ontario is that there is a good offering of things to do in all seasons – so don’t think for a second you’re out of luck when it comes to weekend winter getaways in Ontario!

From treetop trekking in the summer to snow tubing and snowshoeing in the winter , check out these active weekend ideas.

Hardwood Hills Ski & Bike

If you’re keen on some physical activity, we suggest heading to Hardwood Hills . Just north of Toronto about two hours driving, this ski and bike facility offers over 80 kilometres of rolling trails through pine forests for mountain biking and cross-country skiing. They also offer disc golf, volleyball, hiking, and running. You can stay nearby in Oro-Medonte at Carriage Hills Resort which comes with its own amenities.

Horseshoe Valley

It may not be the largest ski hill in Ontario, but Horseshoe Valley Resort is a personal favourite. The grounds offer adventurers so many activities from treetop trekking and golf in the summer to skiing/snowboarding and having the longest snow tubing hill in Ontario in the winter. The nice thing about a weekend at Horseshoe is that you can book your stay close to where you get to play!

Rafting the Ottawa River

For an river rafting adventure, head north of Ottawa to either Wilderness Tours or Owl Rafting ! Eric went rafting with both of these companies before and both companies made for a super fun weekend getaway in Ontario. Both companies have a waterfront resorts with meals, bar, and accommodations (from camping to cabins and even select cottages) so you can stay overnight and make a whole weekend out of it after you enjoy the action-packed rafting tour.

Treetop Trekking in Huntsville

Back to the idea of adventure in the trees, Treetop Trekking (mentioned in Horseshoe Valley) also has a course up in Huntsville, too. The Huntsville location is just off of Highway 60 so it’s easy to get to. The area is beautiful if you are looking for a good dose of nature over the course of a weekend. There are other great things to do in Huntsville if you end up spending a weekend there. We’d recommend a stay at Morgan House B&B  which is not too far from the trekking.

Scuba the Ontario Wrecks

If you want to try something a little different, Ontario is actually a great place to go SCUBA diving. This is because some lakes contain a unique underwater environment – including a high concentration of shipwrecks. Tobermory is apparently the “SCUBA capital of Canada” with Fathom Five National Marine Park having over 20 protected wrecks to explore. If you are new to SCUBA, you can always try a SCUBA training course ! If you stay up in Tobermory, check out the Grandview Motel for a popular and cozy accommodation with Georgian Bay views just a short walk from “downtown” Tobermory.

Explore Ontario for Beautiful Waterfalls

small waterfall tricking down rocks through green trees in hamilton.

Oddly enough, Ontario’s unique geography also makes it a home to many gorgeous waterfalls. A big reason for this is the Niagara Escarpment – that large rocky ledge that runs from Georgian Bay all the way to the Niagara Region.

Of course, you can go and see the most famous of them all – Niagara Falls – but there are lots more to explore that are tucked away in nature.

Exploring waterfalls can make for a good cheap weekend getaway in Ontario because the costs are usually just things like the parking fee and/or the entrance fee for the conservation area (on top of some food and a place to stay).

That said, we’ll highlight two main areas for waterfalls in Ontario but know that there are a few others scattered all over the province. For example, you can go up to near Thunder Bay to experience Kakabeka Falls which is quite a wonder!

large waterfall cascading down rocks seen from distance through trees.

Hamilton Region

It’s been said that Hamilton – and the area surrounding it – is the Waterfall Capital of the World. This area has over 200 waterfalls to explore with some being more popular and accessible than others. We wrote up a whole post on our experience checking out Hamilton waterfalls but for those wondering, Tiffany Falls is quite popular, as is Albion Falls. We also liked Felker’s Falls!

Another great area that has a number of waterfalls and conservation areas is Grey County. There are a number of popular ones to head for like Eugenia Falls and Hogg’s Falls . While all of the waterfalls are accessible to hike to in the summer, most of them are also accessible in the winter. To stay nearby, check out the Traverston Retreat B&B !

Dive into Ontario’s Rich History

limestone museum building with green trees behind.

If you are looking to spend the weekend exploring something you didn’t know about, why not dive into Ontario’s past? From Indigenous peoples and European settlers to war with the Americans and modern-day advances in medicine – Ontario has quite the backstory. Around the province, there are a number of museums and attractions where you get the chance to dive into history. We don’t think history is boring and many of these ideas can be used to fill just one piece of a weekend itinerary whether you’re a couple or a family with kids!

Not to talk about Niagara on the Lake again but the area is popular for Ontario history given the proximity to the US border and waterways.

This region has numerous attractions like Fort George Historic Site and other places like the Laura Secord Homestead , the Mackenzie Printery Museum , and the Queenston Heights Park , among others. We mention most of these museums and historic things to discover in our guide on things to do in Niagara on the Lake !

Sainte-Marie among the Hurons

If you want to step back into the 17th century, head for Sainte-Marie among the Hurons . Located in Midland, this re-created settlement and museum represents the spot of the oldest European community in Ontario. To stay nearby in Midland, you might like 1875 A Charters Inn Bed & Breakfast which is a historic home located right in the heart of the town centre.

metal chain link fence with stop sign and entrance sign to museum with building behind.

Diefenbunker Museum

Did you know that Ontario has a secret underground Cold war-era bunker that was for the Prime Minister and is now a museum you can tour?

If you didn’t, visit the Diefenbunker Museum outside of Ottawa in the small town of Carp. We went and it was honestly awesome! You can read more about our experience when visiting the Diefenbunker . If you want to stay nearby, aim for the Brookstreet Hotel which is in Kanata between the bunker and downtown Ottawa (can make a weekend out of a visit to this area)!

large islands with trees on them surrounded by blue water with blue sky above.

1000 Islands History Museum

If the history of the waterways calls to you, head for Gananoque to explore the 1000 Islands History Museum . It’s located right at the waterfront and you can also use this weekend trip to hop on a beautiful 1000 Islands Boat Cruise !

We cruised the 1000 Islands from Kingston but have heard the cruises from Gananoque offer more island time. To stay just a short walk from downtown Gananoque/the waterfront to catch a cruise, we suggest the Sleepy Hollow B&B in an old historic house!

Check out Top Ontario Attractions

niagara falls waterfall with blue boat in water in front.

Then there are the Ontario weekend getaways that are centred around going to see or do something specific. We call these top Ontario attractions – and Ontario has a number of things to visit that are worth building a weekend around!

For this guide, we tried to stick to things that are unique experiences to Ontario so you won’t find any chain companies or brands below!

large waterfalls with mist rising and small red boat sailing towards it.

Niagara Falls

We couldn’t leave a weekend getaway in Niagara Falls, Ontario out of this post. This city – with three magnificent waterfalls to check out – is loaded with things to do and see besides the falls themselves.

From the famous Hornblower Cruise to the White Water Walk and attractions on Clifton Hill, there’s something for everyone here. We have written extensively on the subject including a post on top things to do in Niagara Falls and a guide on where to stay .

We stayed at  A Moment in Time B&B and good hotels with views of the falls are  Marriott Fallsview  or  The Oakes Hotel Fallsview .

Bonnechere Caves

To explore another natural wonder that Ontario has been hiding, plan a visit to the Bonnechere Caves . This incredible cave system is a unique way to learn about nature while also going on a bit of an adventure! They are located close to Eganville (not far from Highway 60). To stay nearby, you can check out the Bide-A-While Bed & Breakfast which is in Renfrew (a short drive from the Caves).

Dynamic Earth & Big Nickel

Lastly, if you are keen to learn more about what goes on underground in Ontario, head up to Sudbury to Dynamic Earth and to see the Big Nickel! Part of the Science North group, these science museums are world-renowned. Plus, nearby you get to visit the largest coin in the world so that’s pretty cool. Don’t count out Sudbury for a great weekend getaway. There are other outdoor-based attractions to draw you up there. We’d suggest a stay at the Northbury Hotel close to the city centre.

Catch Some Sun at an Ontario Beach

pebble beach with stone breakers and blue sky above.

It’s no secret that with enough lakes, rivers, and other bodies of water dotting the Ontario landscape, there are bound to be some great beaches in Ontario. Millions of years of erosion for you mean many places to lay on the comfortable sand and let the summer sun do its thing!

Of course, there are very popular beaches in Ontario like Wasaga Beach and Sauble Beach – but there are lots of other great beaches to head for as well. So, if you’re looking for a relaxing weekend getaway in Ontario in summer, a beachside retreat might be for you.

We’ve listed just a handful of other beaches you might want to make a point of heading to on a weekend.

They are generally located in nice little towns with restaurants and a laid-back atmosphere. Beaches also make for a sure-fire idea for weekend family getaways in Ontario because the beach has something for everyone!

Grand Bend Beach

Located close to Pinery Provincial Park , Grand Bend Beach is a very popular stop for weekend getaways in southwestern Ontario. There are lots to do in the area activity-wise in both the summer and the winter season. You can stay close by to the beach at a resort or campground like the Oakwood Resort .

Long Point is actually also a Provincial Park – but the sandy beaches are well-known to those familiar with Lake Erie. As the fourth oldest park in Ontario, there’s 1.5 km of sand-covered beach. Lake Erie is also typically warmer than Lake Ontario. To stay close by, you can book the Normandale Century Inn in Normandale which is a quick drive from the beach at Long Point. There are also other beaches all over that area of Lake Erie!

sandy dune with trees behind and blue lake water

Sandbanks Provincial Park

Looping back to cover Prince Edward County, a trip to Sandbanks Provincial Park is a great way to hit the beach. There are actually three different beaches here – we cover them in our mega guide to exploring Sandbanks . With the option to camp overnight or make use of the day-use dune areas and stay nearby, there are options for most weekend trippers. We’ve covered where to stay in Prince Edward County before in this post but to stay close to the actual beaches check out Our Space the Perfect Place B&B  which is not far.

There are other beaches in this region like Wellington Beach or North Beach if you want to skip Sandbanks!

Hike/Camp at a National/Provincial Park

orange road sign on ride of highway with trees behind in algonquin park.

Speaking of Provincial Parks – you can absolutely make a weekend getaway out of exploring the great outdoors.

Luckily, you’ve got 340 regulated Provincial Parks to choose from – and that doesn’t include National Parks or conservation areas! While this may seem like a difficult task, there are definitely some that are more popular than others.

Everyone is likely familiar with Algonquin Provincial Park , Forks of the Credit , Arrowhead , or even Killarney , but there are so many other parks in Ontario to explore. Many of these green areas make for dog-friendly weekend getaways because they have “bark parks” attached.

If you stay for a weekend (and depending on which one you choose) you might decide to camp overnight (if you can). Alternatively, you can also just do day hikes but stay close by outside the park. You can even visit more than one in a weekend. It’s really up to you!

Petroglyphs Provincial Park

For a unique park experience in Ontario, head for Petroglyphs Provincial Park . Located just to the northeast of Peterborough, the park is special since you’ll find a large collection of Indigenous rock carvings as well as get the chance to enjoy nature and learn about the traditions of the Ojibway people.

This is a place for learning and connecting and we are so looking forward to visiting. To make a weekend out of it, you could stay at the Burleigh Falls Inn which is in our post on best Ontario inns!

Bruce Peninsula National Park

Often referred to as “heading to Tobermory”, Bruce Peninsula National Park is a popular but unique stop in Ontario. The Bruce Peninsula is a gorgeous area on Georgian Bay with a variety of unique aspects like the Grotto – a famous geological attraction. You can camp in the park but you can also stay close by in the heart of Tobermory if you just want to day hike. The Grandview Motel is a great option for that.

Kawartha Highlands Provincial Park

Lastly, Kawartha Highlands Provincial Park is another great park in Ontario located up near Bancroft. We tried to feature more of “The Kawarthas” since the Muskokas always get the credit when it comes to amazing outdoor areas in Ontario. The park is fantastic to visit for camping, hiking, canoeing, and much more. It is actually the second largest park in Southern Ontario next to Algonquin. It’s actually pretty close to Petroglyphs Park (mentioned above) so a stay at the Burleigh Falls Inn would make sense if you didn’t want to camp overnight.

Explore a Small Ontario Town

small town road with shops and cars driving in gravenhurst ontario.

You don’t have to head to a city to have an amazing weekend. In fact, those of you in the city are likely looking to leave it for the weekend.

So, exploring a small Ontario town might be perfect for you. In fact, we’d argue that the right small town can offer you more to do on a long weekend getaway in Ontario than just heading for an Ontario beach!

Ontario is loaded with small towns that actually have lots of offer visitors like local history and hikes, artisan shops, restaurants, and breweries. Local accommodations that make for a nice overnight getaway can be the piece that brings it all together to create a nice weekend getaway.

Having both of us come from small towns, we definitely have an affinity for discovering smaller places. Below are a number of great small towns to check out – some have rivers running through while others have hiking trails or lakes to enjoy!

historic limestone inn situated by the river with autumn colours around and blue sky above.

Last, but certainly not least, we have the small town of Elora. Located close to Guelph, Elora is known for the Grand River running through it. It’s the home of the luxurious Elora Mill Hotel and the town is a great stop for a quiet weekend full of relaxing, getting out on the river, or hiking/tubing in Elora Gorge Conservation Area . We’ve written a whole detailed guide on what to do in Elora if you want to read about our experience. Aside from the Elora Mill Hotel and Spa , another place to stay close to the town centre would be Etherington Suites – very close to the Grand River!

If you are searching for a cute little town with historic stone buildings, a number of places to eat, a museum or two, local shops, and some green space by the water, you might want to have a look at Perth. This little town is located a short drive north of Kingston and makes for a nice quiet Ontario getaway – especially in spring with the flowers blooming.

If you want to stay right in the heart of Perth, we’d suggest the Perth Manor Boutique Hotel !

cares driving on road in small town with canadian flag flying in foreground.

Gravenhurst

For those wanting to hit up a smaller town but up in the Muskokas, Gravenhurst would be our go-to suggestion. Featuring a great little town centre with a nice brewery and the famous Muskoka steamships cruise down at the Muskoka Wharf, there’s lots to see and do in Gravenhurst . For a nice place to stay, that is close to downtown but also close to the lake, you can check out  The Inn on Bay .

Get Lost in an Ontario City

blue water with historic kingston ontario in background.

It goes without saying that Ontario is huge and there are a number of cities that can definitely make for a nice weekend getaway.

Depending on your interests (and your starting location), some cities might appeal to you over others. Cities also make for a great solo weekend in Ontario because you can kind of blend in among city life and enjoy it at your own pace!

There are a number of cities we really like visiting around Ontario – and all for basically different reasons.

We left Toronto out since (you have to admit) many people are usually looking to leave Toronto for the weekend, not enter it! Below are some of our favourite cities to visit, things to do in each, and accommodations to check out.

large historic city hall with clock and flag pole in kingston ontario.

For a historic city right on Lake Ontario, Kingston makes for an excellent weekend trip since it’s a doable drive from both Ottawa and Toronto. Kingston is fantastic in the summer: You can get ice cream and walk the downtown core to check out the small shops. There are historic trolley tours and even an island boat cruise you can do. In the winter, it’s a bit chilly but still great. You can go ice skating at Springer Market Square. There are also so many bars, breweries, and restaurants in Kingston to satisfy any cuisine in any season. We’d suggest the Hochelaga Inn for a historic bed and breakfast walkable to downtown and The Delta for a downtown hotel on the Kingston waterfront. Having lived in Kingston for a combined decade, that’s why we know and love it. You can read up on things to do , best restaurants , best bars and pubs , coffee shops , and even where to stay in Kingston .

green trees with large parliament buildings behind with summer sky above.

If you feel like you aren’t in touch with Canada’s roots, a trip to Ottawa can fix that! In the summer, you can do a river cruise of the Ottawa River , explore Parliament, or visit one of the many museums like the Canadian War Museum or National Gallery of Canada . Pints in ByWard Market are also a great way to enjoy the weather! In the winter, the city gets cold but there’s always Winterlude and skating on the famous Rideau Canal to enjoy! Whichever season you visit, we’d recommend the Andaz ByWard Market for a central hotel with a stunning rooftop bar. We love exploring Ottawa and have a number of posts to get you started: things to do in Ottawa , one day in Ottawa , best Ottawa bars and pubs , and where to stay in Ottawa !

large limestone church behind smaller historic house with blue sky above.

Last but not least – a trip to Guelph, Ontario is actually a great option! Located not too far from Toronto, Guelph can make for a nice weekend getaway in southern Ontario. The city has a lot of natural beauty with green spaces and the rivers that run through. The area is good for hiking and being outside, in general. There is a nice downtown with bars and pubs , shops, and great restaurants. Of course, there are other things to do in Guelph like renting a boat at The Boathouse and getting ice cream or high tea! If you head for Guelph, the  Norfolk Guest House Inn  makes for a lovely stay a short walk to downtown.

Indulge On A “Food or Drink Trail”

circle of craft beer sample glasses on wooden table.

If you want your weekend getaway to revolve around enjoying Ontario’s vibrant gastronomy scene, then you can definitely make that happen! Ontario prides itself on its local growers, bakers, brewers, and restaurant owners who have created more than one “foodie” hot spot across the province.

While a stop at St. Lawrence Market in Toronto is definitely a noteworthy adventure, there are a number of Ontario weekend trip food routes that are basically just asking you to join. From sweet treats to delicious craft beer, here are a bunch of Ontario food tours/trails that you can follow!

The Butter Tart Tour

Are you a fan of butter tarts? The Canadian classic dessert can be enjoyed in the Kawarthas Northumberland (around Peterborough) at over 50 different locations! You can eat your way across the region sampling butter tarts – find the full details for the Butter Tart Tour here . You can also complete a version by boat! If you do make the tour over the course of a weekend, you will need a place to sleep off those butter tarts. Stay in Bobcaygeon to be in the heart of the butter tart tasting region and check out Riverside Caygeon B&B for a great bed and breakfast!

Oxford County Cheese Trail

Is cheese your thing? Then the Oxford County Cheese Trail is for you! Consisting of 24 stops ranging from cheese shops, restaurants, and other vendors around Woodstock (close to London), the cheese trail is definitely something you’ll want to spend a weekend doing! You can learn all about The Cheese Trail here ! As you will be filled with cheese, stay in Woodstock for a central location to drive to other places on the trail. The Château la Motte Guest House is a super cool-looking historic bed and breakfast that might do the trick.

Brewery Tour

Since Ontario is a hot spot for craft breweries, there are many different ones situated in regions that you can explore. Prince Edward County breweries are great or you could even make a tour out of breweries around the Muskoka region (like Muskoka Brewery in Bracebridge!). Please enjoy responsibly if you do this. Once again, the heart of the region is arguably Gravenhurst so perhaps stay at The Inn on Bay to make your brewery crawl easier to accomplish! This would also work well for a one-night getaway in Ontario.

And there you have it – a pretty detailed list of ideas for weekend getaways in Ontario! Of course, there are so many more weekend ideas to add here.

Also, not all of these will work for you because we have no idea where you are starting from. That said, we hope this is a helpful guide to most. You know we’ll be adding to it as we explore more of Ontario!

As always, Keep Exploring, eh? – E&L

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Eric Wychopen

guy and girl wearing white standing in front of lake in ontario away travel blog

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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The Planet D: Adventure Travel Blog

29 Amazing Weekend Getaways in Ontario, Canada

Written By: The Planet D

Updated On: June 11, 2024

Ontario offers year-round options for a fun-filled weekend trip, and there is plenty of beauty and culture to be found. If you are looking for the best weekend getaways in Ontario, rest assured there are many places to choose from. And we’ve rounded them up all in one place for you.

Table of Contents

Best Weekend Getaways in Ontario

best weekend getaways in ontario The Railway Museum in Toronto

We have split our Ontario weekend getaways into categories, including romantic getaways, urban areas, resorts, outdoors, and family trips So let’s start with the top weekend getaways in Ontario to enjoy one of these lovely city breaks.

Best Weekend Getaway Spots – Cities and Towns

Ready to support local businesses, explore charming towns, and treat yourself to retail therapy? These are the best cities and towns for weekend getaways in Ontario. From small towns to major cities, this list offers a fantastic range to suit everyone’s interests.

weekend trips from london ontario

Ottawa is our absolute favorite city in Ontario. It has an abundance of museums, historical sites, landmarks, nature, and an exciting food scene. It is home to countless things to do, including outdoor adventures on the Ottawa River, the Canadian National Gallery, the Canadian War Museum, and Parliament Hill making it the perfect place for a long weekend.

Visitors can fly straight into Ottawa from New York or Toronto or drive there from major cities like Montreal (which is a two-hour drive from Ottawa). The capital of Canada is a perfect year-round getaway.

Plan your trip to Ottawa

  • Ottawa Attractions – 20 Winter Activities to Embrace the Snow
  • 33 Things to Do in Ottawa – A Complete Guide to the City
  • Amazing Places to Visit on the Rideau Canal
  • The Ultimate Guide To The Canadian Tulip Festival in Ottawa
  • Best accommodation option in Ottawa – Fairmont Chateau Laurier  

2. Niagara Falls

weekend trips from london ontario

Niagara Falls is Canada’s most famous attraction and is a must visit in Ontario, featuring the largest waterfall in the world by volume. The town has everything you need for the perfect long weekend getaway in Ontario, from tourist attractions, restaurants, spas, and luxury hotels.

The whole family will love all the falls attractions, indoor waterparks such as Great Wolf Lodge where kids can have their own room within family room, countless restaurants and entertainment, plus access to many wineries nearby.

Getting there: It is is an hour’s drive from Hamilton and an hour and a half from Toronto. How to Get From Toronto to Niagara Falls – Bus, Train, Transit, And Car

Plan your trip to The Falls

  • 25 Best Things to Do in Niagara Falls, Canada
  • The Perfect 48 Hours in Niagara Falls, Canada

12 Fun Things to Do in Niagara Falls at Night

  • How to Get From Toronto to Niagara Falls – Bus, Train, Transit, And Car
  • The Clifton Hill Fun Pass in Niagara Falls: Is it Worth it?
  • 15 Best Views of Niagara Falls
  • Where to Stay in Niagara Falls – Best Areas
  • Best accommodation option – Niagara Falls Marriott Fallsview Hotel & Spa

best weekend getaways in ontario The Railway Museum in Toronto

Toronto has the best city scene in Ontario, and we called it home for 20 years. Its cityscape is recognized worldwide – from the CN Tower to its famed waterfront. If you want one of Ontario’s most iconic weekend getaways, Toronto is easily one of the top three.

Eat at Michelin Star restaurants, admire a mix of historic buildings and skyscrapers, samples local craft beer and cocktails at bars across the city or even spend time at the beach. There are also endless museums, outdoor activities and interactive adventures. The best way to see a lot of Toronto in a short time is on a day tour. Browse tours here.

Getting There: As the capital of Ontario it is a breeze to access with direct flights from around the world.

Best accommodation option in Toronto – The Ritz Carlton is our favorite in the city centre close to the Fairmont Royal York, Roy Thompson Hall and the Princess of Wales Theatre, The CN Tower, the Entertainment District, and the Harbourfront.

Plan your trip to Toronto

  • The Perfect One Day in Toronto Itinerary
  • 50 Best Things to Do in Toronto, Canada
  • Where to Stay in Toronto – A Guide to the Best Neighborhoods
  • Best Christmas Events in Toronto: A Festive Guide
  • Toronto Tours by Locals – An InsiderS Guide To The City

4. Kingston

weekend trips from london ontario

The first capital of Canada is an amazing weekend trip. Located on Lake Ontario, The Rideau Canal, and the St. Lawrence River, Kingston is filled with historic charm, fine dining, and nightlife.

Make sure to book a tour of Kingston Penitentiary, Agnes Etherington Art Centre, Bellevue House National Historic Site, and Murney Tower National Historic Site of Canada. It is a stunning place to just explore on foot from the historic buildings of Queens University to the beautiful waterfront. You can also book Kingston Day Tours here.

Getting There: Kingston is located just a three-hour drive from Toronto or two hours and twenty minutes by train.

Best accommodation option in Kingston –  Delta Hotels by Marriott Kingston Waterfront  is beautiful, though. The three-star hotel features an indoor rooftop pool and an onsite restaurant.

Plan your trip to Kingston

  • The Ultimate Kingston Ontario Weekend Itinerary
  • Things to do in Kingston – Don’t Miss This Ontario Gem

5. Stratford

weekend trips from london ontario

Known for its renowned Stratford Festival, visitors can enjoy world-class theatre productions from Shakespearean classics to contemporary plays.

The picturesque downtown area is perfect for leisurely strolls, with its boutique shops, cafes, and restaurants offering local delicacies. Don’t miss the Shakespearean Gardens and a stroll along the Avon River, where you can spot swans and enjoy the serene atmosphere.

Getting There: Stratford is easily accessible from major cities like Toronto and London, either by car or via a scenic train ride on VIA Rail.

Best Place to Stay:

romantic weekend getaway in ontario mural in downtown Paris

Tiny downtown Paris was named the “Prettiest little town in Canada,” and it is certainly one of the best small towns to visit for a fun Ontario getaway. We may be slightly biased because Paris is our home town and we love our lifestyle with hiking and biking trails, great dining, spas, and scenery surrounding us. Downtown Paris has half a dozen excellent restaurants, local shops, and even a microbrewery, making for an ideal place for a road trip.

Apart from shopping and enjoying cafes of downtown Paris, you can try some activities like river tubing or kayaking on the Grand River, visiting Alexander Graham Bells House or cycling the Hubs of Ontario Trails. Read our complete guide: 27 Things to do in Paris Ontario – A Local’s Guide

Accommodation in Paris – The best accommodation in Paris is the  Arlington Hotel located smack dab in the middle of downtown Paris. The Arlington Hotel hotel was established in 1851 and offers historical, chic accommodation.

7. Grand Bend

romantic getaways in ontario grand bend

Grand Bend is another small town gem, perfect for an Ontario getaway. My family had a cottage here growing up and my parents retired here for about 10 years, so we know Grand Bend well.

Set on the shores of Lake Huron, Grand Bend offers a multitude of outdoor activities and its beach is always packed with people and activities. Nature lovers will enjoy a visit to Pinery Provincial Park for some camping. You can relax on a patio in one of the downtown restaurants. catch a show at Huron Country Playhouse, or enjoy its excellent beach.

Getting There: Grand Bend is approximately two hours from Hamilton and one hour from Windsor and is ideally situated for a relaxing getaway. Check out: 25 Best Places to Camp in Ontario, Canada

Best accommodation option in Grand Bend – Amber Hotel is the best accommodation option and is an excellent mid-range choice. You can check the property out on TripAdvisor here.

elora ontario

Elora is another of our favorite small towns and is best known for its 19th-century architecture and striking limestone buildings. The town was founded by Roman Catholic missionaries, and its name translates as ‘sun ray’ or ‘god is my light’ in Hebrew.

Elora is also located next to Elora Gorge – a dramatic gorge cutting through cliffs with the Grand River running through the middle. You can admire the gorge from multiple viewpoints. If you feel inspired for some adventure, go tubing or kayaking on a different section of the Grand River. Read more: 25 Day Trips from Toronto to Escape the City

Getting There: It is just an hour and a half from Toronto so book a hotel and stay for dinner.

Best accommodation option in Elora – The best accommodation option is  Elora Mill Hotel & Spa. The historic hotel is set in an old riverside mill and features rooms with a fireplaces, a full service spa, gym, and yoga facilities.

Wine Region Getaways in Ontario

couples getaway ontario wine regions

There’s something special about visiting wine regions. There are a surprising amount of wine regions in Ontario, and each place has its own charm with romantic hotels, outdoor adventures, and, of course, wine tastings.

9. Niagara on the Lake

romantic getaway ontario Niagara winery

Niagara-on-the-Lake is a small town located in not only the best wine region, but also one of the best vacation spots in Ontario. Filled with historic charm, this town in Ontario is packed with culture, from post-1812 war buildings like Old Fort York and Laura Secord’s house to world-class theater productions at the Shaw Festival.

Some of the best wineries for a wine tasting are Inniskillin, Peller Estates, Calamus Estate Winery, King’s Court Estate Winery, and Flat Rock Cellars. If you want a romantic getaway, book this wine tasting tours and a relaxing hotel for you and your significant other. In the winter, don’t miss visiting the Cie-Wine Festival.

Getting There: Niagara-on-the-Lake is 20 minutes from Niagara Falls, an hour’s drive from  Hamilton  and an hour and a half from Toronto.

Plan your trip to Niagara-on-the-Lake

  • 15 Amazing Things to do in Niagara on the Lake – Canada
  • Where to Stay in Niagara Falls – Best Hotels
  • Niagara Falls Road Trip – The Best of the Niagara Parkway
  • Best accommodation option – The Pillar and Post Inn and Spa 

10. Prince Edward County

weekend trips from london ontario

Prince Edward County is an island community is known for its local artists, beautiful beaches, particularly Sandbanks Provincial Park, and world class wineries.

When you aren’t visiting the vineyars, consider stopping at Dunes Beach and Outlet Beach and Cedar Sands Nature trail. A short trail that follows the Outlet River and has beautiful marshland viewpoints.

Make sure to dine at Amelia’s Garden Restaurant. The fine dining restaurant prides itself on organic, seasonal produce and farm to table dishes. You can also book accommodatoin at Angeline’s Inn

Getting There: At just a two-hour drive from Toronto , the route is scenic too, and you’ll skirt along the north shores of Lake Ontario and its little lakeside towns.

Best accommodation option in Sandbanks – The best is  Log Cabin Point Cottage Resort.  

11. Lake Erie North Shore

weekend trips from london ontario

Did you know that Lake Erie and Pelee Island are at the same latitude as Tuscany in Italy and Bordeaux in France? The Southern Ontario region is the oldest wine-producing area in Canada. The first winery opened in 1866. Since then, the region has been carving an ever-growing name for itself in the international wine industry.

Some of the best wineries are Pelee Island Winery, Pavillion, Copper’s Hawk Vineyards, Viewpointe Estate Winery, and Mastronardi Estate Winery. Sprucewood Shores Estate Winery is also Ontario’s only beachfront winery – a unique selling point, you’ll agree.

Getting There: Depending on which area you visit in the region, you can either drive a short distance from London or a few hours from Hamilton or Toronto.

Resort Getaways in Ontario

A resort getaway ticks a box that not much else can. These are the best resorts for all inclusive getaways in Ontario.

12. Sir Sam’s Inn and Spa

Sir Sams Inn Waterspa couples getaway in Haliburton Ontario

For the ultimate romantic getaway in Ontario a couples retreat should be on your list. Sir Sam’s Inn and Spa in Haliburton is a relaxing getaway in a dramatic stone-and-timber mansion.

The resort features every luxury from an indoor water spa to an outdoor heated pool with Eagle Lake views to snowmobile parking and private fireplaces. There is also a fine dining restaurant located directly onsite.

And when you aren’t enjoying outdoor activities around  Haliburton , you can enjoy complimentary spa access to its waterspa. There are plenty of activities for both summer and winter trips from skiing and snowshoeing to boating and fishing. Book your weekend getaway here

Getting There: Sir Sam’s is a three and a half hour’s drive from Ottawa, so well-placed for a weekend of luxury.

13. Fern Resort

Muskoka is a great couples getaway

Fern Resort in Orillia is a beautiful family-friendly resort but also romantic for couples too. The resort sits next to Lake Couchiching, and its all-inclusive package includes complimentary meals and activities. You can explore the local area or enjoy onsite entertainment like cross-country skiing, giant chess, a spa, or ice skating.

It is ideal for those wanting an action-packed, family-friendly resort experience. See more details here .

Getting There: Fern Resort is just under a two-hour drive from Toronto.

14. Couples Resort

Paddling in Haliburton romantic getaway in the outdoors

Couples Resort is a beautiful resort overlooking Galeairy Lake in Algonquin Park. The all-inclusive couple’s only package includes breakfast, five-course dinners, activities like horse riding and ice skating, and access to facilities like a saltwater swimming pool.

Being in the middle of nature there are plenty of hiking trails, paddling and canoe options in the summer with cross-country skiing and snowshoeing in the winter.

Getting There: The resort is three hours from Ottawa or nearly four hours from Toronto. See more availabiltiy and rates on TripAdvisor

15. Deerhurst Resort

romantic getaways in ontario deerhurst

Deerhurst is an upscale resort in Huntsville with a lot to offer. The Ontario resort is tucked up near the Hidden Valley Highlands. In winter, it is an ideal base for a ski holiday. For the rest of the year, Deerhurst Resort stands out for its two golf courses, hot tub, spa, and outdoor activities.

Deerhurst can be considered family-friendly or one of the best romantic weekend getaways – it’s up to you to decide which. You can book a weekend stay at  Deerhurst Resort here

Getting There: Deerhurst is a two-and-a-half-hour drive from Toronto Check out details here.

16. Cedar Grove Lodge

romantic escape cedar grove lodge

We loved the romance of Cedar Grove Lodge in Huntsville. It is located on 150 feet of lakefront property on Peninsula Lake. There are plenty of things to do in Huntsville to keep you busy as well. Read: Things to do in Muskoka in Winter

Each room has its own wood-burning fireplace and this romantic retreat has all-inclusive packages where you can eat three meals a day in the dining room. Snuggling up by the fire in the snowy landscape is one of the most romantic places in Ontario. Check availability and rates for Cedar Grove on TripAdvisor

17. Severn Lodge

romantic places in ontario, severn lodge

Severn Lodge is a lovely lakeside resort on the shores of Glouster Pool in Port Severn Township. The property dates back to the 1800s and still has traditional features like beamed ceilings and historical decor. Facilities include a heated pool, onsite beach, private dock, and patios or balconies overlooking the lake. Make reservations here.

Getting There: Severn Lodge is just forty minutes by car from Barrie and two hours from Toronto.

18. Idlewyld Inn and Spa

weekend getaways in ontario london

Idlewyld Inn and Spa is the number one destination for an elegant getaway in Western Ontario. Located in London, Ontario Idelwyld Inn and Spa is set in a classic mansion, the property features a full-service spa, onsite restaurant, courtyard garden, and stained glass windows throughout. It is perfect for anyone wanting an inspiring property for a relaxing city break. Get ready to step back in time.

Apart from its facilities, Idlewyld Inn and Spa also offers an all-inclusive package with a complimentary breakfast. And located in the heart of London, it is a deluxe base for a city break. See more details here.

19. Langdon Hall – Cambridge

romantic getaway ontario weekend

Another complete Romantic Ontario getaway is Langdon Hall in Cambridge. This property has the distinction of being recognized by Relais & Châteaux for a standard of excellence.

The Five Diamond dining experience is the perfect romantic evening out and its spa packages include a half-day retreat of a Swedish massage, facials, and manicure and pedicure. There is a huge hot tub, saunas, and steam rooms to chill out in for the afternoon.  Compare prices on TripAdvisor

Family Getaways in Ontario

Ontario is fantastic for family fun. We’ve picked these extra-special places for our next section; these are the best getaways for the whole family.

20. Collingwood / Blue Mountain

weekend trips from london ontario

Collingwood is an action-packed destination in Ontario. In the summer, you can explore limestone caves, and winter it is the best place in Ontario for skiing. You can get all your family zipping down the slopes at Blue Mountain Resort in winter and then escape to the hot tub apres ski. It truly is the perfect weekend getaway anytime of the year.

Blue Mountain and Collingwood is one of the most adventurous and romantic getaways, but we included it under family Ontario getaways because there is so much to do. There are also more challenging adventures for older children, like ATV adventure tours, snorkeling tours, and off-roading.

Getting there: Blue Mountain Village is just over a two-hour drive from Toronto and is  full of things to do .

In the Winter, we love to stay at the  Blue Mountain Inn  Slopeside. In the summer our choices are the gorgeous  Westin Trillium House

21. Hamilton

weekend getaways in ontario hamilton

Hamilton needs little introduction, and the major city in Southern Ontario has already been mentioned in this guide as a reference point. However, Hamilton is also an ideal family weekend getaway. One of the coolest activities in Hamilton is the exotic super car driving experience. Get behind the wheel of your dream car on a test drive adventure. As the waterfall capital of the world, there are countless waterfalls to explore, plenty of hikes and even vineyards.

The city is smaller than Toronto and packed with kid-friendly activities like Spencer Smith Park and the beloved Theodore Tugboat tours. You can easily head to rural sections for outdoor activities and are just a short drive from Niagara Falls. Read more: The Best Things to do in Hamilton, Ontario

Best accommodation option in Niagara Escarpment (Hamilton Area) – You can make a base in Burlington to explore the Hamilton portion of the Niagara Escarpment and we recommend The Pearl Hotel & Spa . The best family-friendly option in Hamilton is Staybridge Suites Hamilton Downtown

22. Peterborough

weekend getaways in ontario peterborough

Peterborough sits just off the Otonabee River and perfectly treads the line between urban and residential suburban. You’ll find it much cheaper to visit Peterborough than Toronto, and the friendly downtown atmosphere and price tags are perfect for families covering lots of heads.

There are plenty of things to do with a focus on water sports and adventures. But there is also a lot to do on land including the Canadian Canoe Museum, Peterborough Museum, a rock climbing center, and Riverview Park. The attractions are just a short walk apart – handy for those little legs. Toronto is just an hour and twenty minutes away by car as well.

Best accommodation option in Peterborough – Holiday Inn Peterborough-Waterfront. The property has a policy where children 19 and under stay free with an adult, and kids 12 and under eat free.

23. Sauble Beach

weekend getaways in ontario sauble beach

Sauble Beach is a fantastic destination. The tiny beach community on the shores of Lake Huron is famous for its calm, shallow waters are perfect for younger children to learn to swim and older children to hone their water skills.

After you’ve spent a day swimming, Ascent Aerial Park is a great family attraction. You can tackle a high ropes course for some quality bonding. There’s also Sauble Falls Provincial Park to hike and fish in. Plus, Toronto is just under a three-hour drive away.

Best accommodation option in Sauble Beach – It’s a tough call, but Sauble Beach’s best accommodation is Bel-Air Motel & Cottages.

Great Outdoors

Ontario has amazing national parks and provincial parks that are open all year long. So even if it is winter, put on your parka, cozy up by the fire or head out for some cross country skiing and snowshoeing. In summer, take advantage of all the pristine hikes and biking trails and some of the best wildlife spotting on earth.

24. Algonquin Provincial Park

romantic places in ontario algonquin park

Algonquin Provincial Park is heaven on Earth for nature lovers. The park is more than a whopping 1.9 million acres of natural beauty and full of marked hiking trails and campsites – making it an accessible, beginner-friendly outdoor getaway in Ontario. It is the premier destiantion in Ontario for multi day canoe trips where you’ll spot moose, otters, beavers and even bears.

Its famous trails, like Lookout Trail and Centennial Ridges Trail, are perfect scenic hikes to squeeze into a weekend itinerary. And you have attractions like the Algonquin Logging Museum and Algonquin Art Centre all year round if you fancy a bit of culture.

Getting There: Algonquin Park is just a three-hour drive from Ottawa and three and a half hours from Toronto, so it is easily reached from a major city. If you don’t have your own car, you can arrange a car rental from one of the many car rental companies in the cities and drive yourself to the park.

Best accommodation option in Algonquin Provincial Park –  Killarney Lodge  is an all-inclusive park hotel with rustic lakeside cabins – well worth a look at.

25. Batchawana Bay Provincial Park

best ontario weekend getaway

Batchawana Bay Provincial Park is a fantastic weekend getaway and is a 418-acre lakeside park with gorgeous beaches. Whether you enjoy water activities on Lake Superior, relax on the beaches, or get active on the local trails.

Batchawana Bay Park is a fifty-minute drive from Sault Ste Marie, a small city with fantastic mountain biking trails. If you love mountain biking, check out the Berm Baby Berm or Bee Sting trails.

Batchawan Bay is about an 8 hour drive from Toronto so this is best for a long weekend getaway in Ontario

Best accommodation option in Batchawana Bay – If you fancy going RV camping, Wild Rose RV Park is a fantastic seasonal option. If you prefer resorts, Sunset Shores Resort offers cabins just outside the park. Check rates and availaibity

26. Bruce Peninsula National Park

Bruce Peninsula National Park

Bruce Peninsula Park is over 30,000 acres in size and is an absolute haven for outdoor enthusiasts. The park straddles the famed Niagara Escarpment and Georgian Bay coastline to enjoy.

The best thing to do in the park is to visit its natural attractions, like Flowerpot Island, Little Cove, and Fathom Five National Marine Park in Tobermory. Read our  guide on things to do in Tobermory .

Getting There: From Toronto, it is a three-and-a-half-hour drive.

You can book a day trip from Toronto to Tobermory. This tour includes a guide and driver that takes you to visit the lighthouse and hiking to see the beautiful cliffs of Georgian Bay. You’ll visit The Grotto, Indian Head Cove and Marr Lake.

Best accommodation option – This  beautiful waterfront cottage  is 5km from downtown Tobermory. It offers kayaking and beautiful views for sunset. Camping is one of the best options for accommodation in Tobermory in the summer.  Tobermory Village Campground  or  Cyprus Lake Campground .

27. Pukaskwa National Park

pukaskwa np on Lake Superior

Pukaskwa National Park is a 460-acre park on the shores of Lake Superior. It is the perfect destination for beginner-friendly water activities, hiking, and camping – especially if you want to get away from the busier parks around Toronto.

Visitors should definitely make time to hike the Bimose Kinoomagewnan Trail. This trail is essential to indigenous Anishinaabe culture and is an excellent mix of cultural and outdoor activity. Read more: The Wild Coastal Trail of Pukaskwa National Park

Pukaskwa is quite far from major cities. It will take around eleven hours to reach Pukaskwa from Winnipeg or Toronto. Pukaskwa is perfect for road trip lovers and should be planned for a long weekend.

Best accommodation option in Pukaskwa NP – Pic River Guest Suite .

28. Manitoulin Island

manitoulin island's cup and saucer trail

Spending a weekend on Manitoulin Island a rejuvenating escape amidst breathtaking natural beauty and rich Indigenous culture, making it one of the best weekend getaways in the province.

As the world’s largest freshwater island, it offers an array of activities, from exploring the stunning Bridal Veil Falls to hiking the Cup and Saucer Trail, which boasts some of the most spectacular views in Ontario. Visit the charming villages of Little Current and Kagawong, and immerse yourself in local culture at the Ojibwe Cultural Foundation.

Getting There: Manitoulin is 6 hours from Toronto. It is a 4-hour scenic drive from Sudbury or a ferry ride from Tobermory aboard the MS Chi-Cheemaun, adding to the adventure.

29. Le Boat – Rideau Canal and Trent Severn

le boat rideau canal video

Houseboat tours are all the rage in Ontario, and there is no better weekend getaway (or week-long getaway) than renting your own houseboat to navigate Ontario’s historic waterways. We have navigated the Rideau Canal north from Smiths Falls to Ottawa and South from Smiths Falls to Kingston. With beautiful small towns to explore, from Smiths Falls to Merrickville, Westport, and Jones Falls, you’ll see some of the best little hamlets in Ontario.

The locks are 250 year old UNESCO World Heritage Sites that are absolutely awe-inspiring to go through. This is by far our favourite weekend getaway in Ontario and we saved the best for last. Guests drive their own houseboats through these historic waterways creating a memory to last a lifetime.

It is safe to say that we love Ontario, and we bet you will, too, when you try these weekend getaways. For more inspiration in Ontario, you can check out our guides on the  best places to visit  and  things to do  across the province. We also have a special guide on the  best things to do  when visiting Ontario in winter and another on the province’s  best hiking trails .

Plan your Le Boat Trip

  • Rideau Canal Cruise – Amazing Cruise Holiday with Le Boat
  • Cruise The Rideau Canal to Ottawa – Complete 7 Day Itinerary

Travel Planning Resources

Looking to book your next trip? Why not use these resources that are tried and tested by yours truly.

Book Your Flights: Start planning your trip by finding the best flight deals on Skyscanner. We have used them for years and have found that they have the best flight deals.

Book your Hotel: Find the best prices on hotels with these two providers. If you are located in Europe use Booking.com and if you are anywhere else use TripAdvisor.

Find Apartment Rentals: You will find the cheapest prices on apartment rentals with VRBO . 

Travel Insurance: Don't leave home without it. Here is what we recommend:

  • Safety Wing - Occasional Travelers.
  • Medjet - Global air medical transport and travel security.

Book Your Activities: Looking for walking tours, skip-the-line tickets, private guides, and more? Then we recommend Get Your Guide.

Need more help planning your trip? Make sure to check out our Resources Page where we highlight all the great companies that we trust when we are traveling.

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About The Planet D

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THE BEST Day Trips from London

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weekend trips from london ontario

1. Private:Brewery, Winery, and Cider & Spirit Tastings Tour in SW Ontario

Ultimate Ontario

30 Exciting Weekend Getaways in Ontario: Your Top Places to Visit in Ontario for the Weekend

Planning weekend getaways in Ontario is a great way to see all the beauty of our province bit by bit. We’ve put together a list of 30 different ideas for weekend getaways in the province. We’ve organized the list by region, but make sure you check out all the ideas to help plan the perfect weekend for you to hit the road and savour Ontario.

Weekend getaways in Ontario

If you’re looking for ways to mix up your day-to-day routine at home, then consider taking one of these exciting weekend getaways in Ontario.

Ontario is full of so many fantastic options for things to do. The main thing to keep in mind when you’re planning weekend getaways in Ontario is to choose something that’s close enough to justify going there for a weekend.

That’s why we’ve organized this list of weekend getaways into regional areas in the province, so you can think about how far you’re looking to go, and plan accordingly.

Putting together this list was a lot of fun, and there are so many different types of getaways on this list: quaint and quiet, zen and natural, unique and creative, or urban and entertaining.

Please note that this post may contain some affiliate links. This means we get a small commission for sharing our recommendations, at no cost to you.

Weekend Getaways in Ontario’s Southwest

Go on a bike tour around the lake erie north shore wine region.

On this weekend getaway, stay in Kingsville for the weekend. Jaunt out to the Lake Erie North Shore wine region for one of your two days.

There are over thirteen wineries and five restaurants in the region, along with some great shops in Kingsville and some of the surrounding hamlets. There are some breweries in the area, too.

If you’re looking to add a little something extra, this weekend getaway in Ontario can also lead you over to Leamington for some great beer , food, and views of Lake Erie at the Point Pelee Observation Tower.

Head to the Southernmost Points in Mainland and Island Canada

Start your weekend in the region by heading to Point Pelee National Park. The scenic drive down to the southernmost tip of mainland Canada is a neat experience. There are hiking trails and boardwalk paths you can explore. If you’re short on time, head to the Observation Tower .

Next, take the ferry from Leamington (make sure you book your ticket for the ferry well in advance!) to Pelee Island. The ferry ride is about 90 minutes, depending on weather conditions. Make sure you bring a book. We are big fans of The Wandering Dog Inn on Pelee Island, and there are plenty of great places to check out once you’re there.

Carve out some time to rent a bike, explore the island, go swimming, head to some restaurants, and enjoy living the island life. A Point Pelee winter getaway is another great way to experience this incredible park.

Dip Your Toes into Exciting Outdoor Experiences and Delectable Wineries in Norfolk County

woman walking through a lavender winery in Norfolk County Ontario

Welcome to “Ontario’s Garden.” Stay at Long Point Eco-Adventures or the Port Rowan Inn* as your base for a weekend in the region .

To book your stay at Long Point Eco-Adventures, click here .

While you’re in Norfolk, head to different wineries and breweries, check out some lavender fields if you visit in the summer months, or enjoy many of the farm-fresh markets and roadside farm stands. This is, after all, a great growing region, so whether you visit in the summer or fall, the heaps of farm-fresh foods are a delight.

Make sure you plan to stop at Burning Kiln Winery during your stay–their famous “Kiln Hanger” is award-winning and one of the top-rated wines in the province. Long Point Eco-Adventures also has some exciting outdoor activities like zip-lining and mountain biking, or educational experiences like apiary tours and mushroom foraging hikes.

*Note: The Port Rowan Inn is closed for renovations as of May 2023.

Go “Retro” in Chatham and Nearby Small Towns

Stay at the Retro Suites Hotel in Chatham. This neat hotel has over twenty suites, each with its own unique theme. It’s a destination in and of itself. If you happen to visit in June, or if you love learning about and seeing vintage cars, then make sure you check out their annual Retro Fest .

To book a memorable stay at the Retro Suites Hotel, click here .

Head to their restaurant, the Chilled Cork, for breakfast or dinner, and head to Sons of Kent brewing before you walk around town.

After you’ve enjoyed some time in Chatham, there are some adorable towns in the region to check out, too. Dresden is one of our favourites!

Relax on the Shores of Lake Huron in Grand Bend

Head to Grand Bend for the weekend. This spot is one of the most charming towns in Ontario . Grand Bend is a great place to visit in the warmer months to enjoy the beaches and its access to Lake Huron.

We’re also big fans of Pinery Provincial Park, which is just down the road. It’s a great park for taking long, scenic walks and enjoying more of what the shores of Lake Huron have to offer.

A Weekend in London, And Then Some

A weekend getaway in London is a great option for those looking for an experience in the city. Stay at The Park Hotel; it’s a really impressive property.

To book your stay at The Park Hotel, click here .

London is home to a ton of great restaurants. There are also a lot of unique and local things to do in the area .

If you’re looking to explore a few fun nearby places, there are some great golf courses near London . The town of Strathroy is also beautiful. The Clocktower Inn is a great place to stay overnight or enjoy a meal. MJ’s Roadhouse in Lucan is also a restaurant worth stopping at.

To book a stay at the historic Clocktower Inn, click here .

If you’re keen to venture a little further, the town of Port Stanley is also very charming!

A Weekend in Windsor

Windsor is another great city in Ontario’s Southwest. The range of different activities and things to do in Windsor is pretty exhaustive! If you’re looking for a Las Vegas-style getaway without the flight, Caesar’s Palace in Windsor is an excellent place to stay. They even have their own casino!

If you want to experience Caesar’s Palace right here in Ontario for yourself, click here .

Aside from casinos, Windsor’s Ford City is a neighbourhood well worth checking out .

A weekend in Windsor can also easily be combined with an extension to Pelee Island Wine Country if you have the time.

Weekend Getaways in Ontario’s South Central

Things to do in Collingwood, Ontario

Take in the Scenic Rolling Hills and Hamlets of Mulmur

There are so many beautiful hamlets to be explored on this weekend getaway in Ontario. This is more of a relaxed pace for a weekend escape than others. Stay at Foxingham Farm B&B in Mansfield to enjoy the rolling hills in the spring and summer, brilliant fall colours in autumn, or downhill skiing in the winter.

To book your stay at the charming Foxingham Farm Bed & Breakfast, click here .

Head to Mrs. Mitchell’s Restaurant for a delicious breakfast, dinner, or afternoon tea. Explore the Dufferin Museum and plenty of shopping and farms in the region. Don’t forget to visit the Schitt’s Creek Rosebud Motel and the region of Hockley Valley while you’re here, too.

Head to Lake Scugog and its Surrounding Charming Towns

Regardless of what time of year you visit, this corner of Durham Region is a pretty place. In the warmer months, heading out kayaking off of Lake Scugog is the perfect way to get out on the water. During the winter, ice fishing on the same lake is a favourite local pastime.

Round out your visit by spending some time in Port Perry. Learn various crafts in art classes at Meta4. Sample some delicious local craft beer at Old Flame Brewery. Or enjoy lunch or stay overnight at the Piano Inn and Cafe, or head just outside town to the charming Nestleton Waters Inn.

On your way in our out of Port Perry, you can head to Uxbridge. Make sure you stop at a local favourite, Haugen’s, on your way. Their rotisserie chickens have been spinning for over 60 years! Stop in Goodwood, too, before arriving in Uxbridge. Goodwood is the home of downtown Schitt’s Creek–think Cafe Tropical and Rose Apothecary .

In Uxbridge , there are a lot of great restaurants, hiking and biking trails. You can catch your breath at The Second Wedge for a pint after your adventures.

Enjoy a Weekend of Neighbourhood Culture in Toronto

Of course, it’s challenging to cram all the ideas for things to do in Toronto into a little blurb, but we’d recommend planning your weekend based on a region. We’ve outlined a few neighbourhoods and ideal hotels you can stay at in each one.

Maybe you’d like to book a stay on the waterfront at the Westin Harbour Castle and check out the surrounding areas. Or, perhaps you’d like to stay in the eastern neighbourhoods of the city and book yourself into the Broadview Hotel in Leslieville .

Or maybe you plan to stay more centrally, like booking a stay at The Chelsea Hotel . And if you head to the west, you might be happier booking a few nights at The Drake .

Regardless of which direction you choose on this weekend getaway, Toronto is chock-full of fun-filled activities , water sports , hiking trails , fun facts , and bars for you to check out on your visit.

It’s always fun to see what’s on at the Royal Ontario Museum or the Art Gallery of Ontario when you visit the town, too! There are even some ways to visit these Toronto museums for free .

If you’re looking to take a tour while you’re in Toronto, we’d highly recommend taking an evening helicopter tour of the city. You can book your ticket here.

Head to one of the Most Charming Towns Near the Grand River

This is a bit of a stretch, since not all of these towns connect to the Grand River, but take your pick between a charming weekend in either Stratford, Elora, or Paris.

Both Elora and Paris, while distanced, are situated on different spots along the Grand River. Both are scenic and charming. Stratford is a little further west along Lake Victoria.

Take in the History and Nature of Niagara

White Water Walk in Niagara Falls

This weekend getaway combines the historic charm of Niagara-on-the-Lake with family fun and excitement in Niagara Falls. Depending on the type of weekend getaways in Ontario you’re looking for, you can easily pick one or the other, or do a combination of both.

Begin with all the excitement that Niagara Falls’ attractions offer. You can do exhilarating things like:

  • Zip-Line over the falls (you can book your ticket here )
  • Take a jet boat tour of the Niagara Rapids (make sure you book your tour here )
  • Head to the Butterfly Conservatory

To round out the exciting portion of the weekend, take a breath in charming Niagara-on-the-Lake. Rent a bike and visit local wineries or nature paths along the Niagara River, or simply stroll around town, stopping to shop, have a bite to eat , or just admire the beautiful buildings in the area. Either Niagara Falls or Niagara-on-the-Lake can be its own weekend getaway, but if you’re interested in both areas, it’s definitely worth it to find time to work them both in.

Relax and Enjoy the Outdoors in Collingwood and The Blue Mountains

This is one of the weekend getaways in Ontario that takes you to the scenic mountains of southern Ontario. Collingwood is a wonderful jumping-off point to see the region. They have a lot of great breweries and restaurants, and plenty of fun things to do.

Just a stone’s throw away, The B lue Mountains also offer a ton of fun things to do in the region. If you’re keen on outdoor activities, it is a great place to be. If you prefer more of a relaxing weekend getaway in the surrounds of nature, then this is also the right spot. This is especially true since there are plenty of relaxing spas in the area for you to enjoy during your stay.

To book your stay at Blue Mountain Resort while you’re in town, click here .

Relaxation and Neighbourhood Walks at Langdon Hall and Cambridge

For those who have visited this corner of Waterloo Region, it is certainly a very special place. Langdon Hall is a well-known and renowned place to stay. This historic and impressive estate will certainly leave a lasting and memorable impression on you well after you leave. They offer packages that include spa credits and multi-course meals on the property.

Book your unforgettable stay at Langdon Hall by clicking here .

When you’re ready to explore beyond the relaxing environment and grounds at Langdon Hall, the city of Cambridge, most specifically in the town of Galt, makes for a great place to walk around and explore. Galt has beautiful views of the Grand River, and a lot of great coffee shops, pubs, and restaurants in the area.

For TV and film enthusiasts, its historic homes and charming streets are the places of numerous filming locations, namely for Hulu’s The Handmaid’s Tale and Netflix’s The Queen’s Gambit . Keep an eye out for these locations as you walk around town. And don’t forget to stop at Foundry Brewing before heading back to Langdon Hall.

Take in the Food, Culture and History of St. Jacobs and Kitchener

Plan to stay in or near the quaint town of St. Jacobs over the weekend. The brand new Hampton Inn & Suites is an impressive building with great design and functionality, and it’s right across from the St. Jacobs Country Playhouse.

If you’d like to book a stay at the Hampton Inn & Suites in St. Jacobs, click here .

Enjoy a walking tour of the town of St. Jacobs and check out street art, shops, and great public spaces along the way. Plan to head to the famous St. Jacobs market on a Saturday for plenty of farm-market goods and freshly baked and cooked foods from different corners of the world. The market is famous for its apple fritters, but be prepared for long lines on Saturdays the longer you wait. Aim to go early, if it’s possible! Head to their Antique Stores, too. You’ll be sure to find something unique.

Finish the weekend with a guided Stroll Walking Tour around an area of your choice. Their Downtown Kitchener Mural Arts walk is a great way to learn about local artists in the region. Downtown Kitchener is also home to several wonderful places to grab a coffee or a drink, and restaurants for after you’ve finished your walk.

Weekend Getaways in Ontario’s Highlands, Kawarthas & Northumberland

Stewart Park in Perth Ontario

Relax at St. Anne’s Spa and Visit Charming Local Towns

Plan an Ontario weekend getaway at the spa! St. Anne’s Spa in Grafton is a renowned and relaxing place to get away. While you’ll likely want to spend most of the weekend soaking in the relaxing delights of the spa, make sure you carve out some time to explore one of the local charming towns.

To book your relaxing stay at St. Anne’s Spa, click here .

Port Hope and Cobourg both made our list of the most charming small towns in Ontario ! Each is set on the shores of Lake Ontario and is worth exploring in its own right. Depending on the time of year, each town also has its own theatre with local shows, which would well be worth checking out during your visit.

Meander Through the Charming Small Towns of Lanark County

This region of Ontario is chock-full of charming small towns. We are big fans of Perth, Westport, and Almonte in Lanark County. Each of these towns has historic charm, great restaurants, and local businesses to support, and they are excellent for walking around.

Consider staying locally at a charming bed and breakfast. Clyde Hall B&B is a great place to stay , and its owners are talented pastry chefs.

To book your stay at Clyde Hall B&B, click here .

On top of being home to beautiful small towns, Lanark County is home to both the Lanark County Chocolate Trail , in addition to being the maple syrup capital of Ontario!

Wheeler’s Pancake House is a local favourite sugar shack to visit, with great walking trails through their sugar bush on the property. If the historic charm of the region isn’t enough to convince you, then we hope these sweet culinary delights will be.

Weekend Getaways in Ontario’s Southeast

The Old Third Prince Edward County Winery

Take Your Own Personal Food Tour in Belleville and the Bay of Quinte

Belleville is a great place for a weekend getaway in Ontario. Their downtown district is full of great places to eat, with everything from authentic Mexican food to gourmet restaurants. A bonus is that it’s very walking and bike-friendly, so there are plenty of ways to enjoy the fresh air as you wander.

Take some time to head out of the downtown core to Zwick’s Park or north to Signal Brewery on the Moira River. South to the harbour area is also great for beautiful views over the Bay of Quinte. We’re big fans of grabbing a sunset bite to eat or a drink at The Pier Patio Bar and Grill. This weekend could also easily be combined with…

A Weekend in Prince Edward County

Start your weekend by staying overnight in the charming small town of Picton, or at one of the cute bed and breakfasts across the region.

Merrill House is an incredible historic bed and breakfast in Picton, and makes for an excellent place to stay. Click here to book your room .

You can plan your days around spending time in nature, like at Sandbanks Provincial Park or Lake-on-the-Mountain. Aside from that, the adorable hamlets in the area are great to explore while you’re sipping your way through some of the most amazing wineries and breweries in this region.

Enjoy Quiet Island Life on Amherst Island and Mainland Bath

This is a special little corner of Lennox and Addington County. Amherst Island is a relaxing island, just off the coast of mainland Bath, Ontario.

Stay at The Lodge on Amherst Island in Stella. Make sure you check out all the things to do on Amherst Island . Either on your way there or on your way back from the island, be sure to stop in Bath for a coffee and a snack or lunch at The Lodge Coffee House . The owner is wonderful, and the food and coffee are worth the stop. It’s a great excuse to check out the small and charming historic town of Bath, too, and patronize their local businesses in the region.

Spend a Weekend in Canada’s Intended Capital City

Kingston is a great place to get away for the weekend in Ontario. Its history is one of great importance to our province and country, and the views from downtown out to Wolfe Island and Lake Ontario are beautiful. There are plenty of historic places to check out, and beautiful neighbourhoods to walk around.

Queens University campus also makes for a great place to explore and wander. There are plenty of other awesome things to do in Kingston that you can choose from on your weekend away.

We’d recommend booking your stay at The Smith Hotel , or booking a few nights at The Secret Garden Inn .

Boat and Wander Through the Thousand Islands and Gananoque

Gananoque is the perfect access point to the famous Thousand Islands region. Stay at the Comfort Inn and Suites in downtown Gananoque (we know, this sounds like an odd choice, but it’s honestly the best location to visit the area!) or a local inn or bed and breakfast downtown.

To book your stay at The Comfort Inn and Suites Gananoque, click here .

From central Gananoque, you can head on a boat or kayaking tour of the islands. There are long and short boat tours, some of which go all the way across to the mansions on the American side of the islands.

For a complete list of all the different types of tours your can take to see the Thousand Islands, click here .

You can also rent bikes and bike along the Thousand Islands Parkway, which is a beautifully paved and preserved road along the Canadian shore of the St. Lawrence River.

Gananoque also has a wonderful restaurant scene and a great brewery. While you’re in town, check out what’s on at the Thousand Islands Playhouse.

On your way out of town, be sure to stop at BUSL Cider in Mallorytown for some scenic rural views and tasty samplings at this modern cidery.

Weekend Getaways in Ontario’s East

Skating on the Rideau Canal at Night

Explore Canada’s Capital

Ottawa is a fantastic city to visit on a weekend. There are so many fun things to do and see that would easily fill up more than a weekend. We’d recommend pinpointing what makes you tick when you plan one of your weekend getaways in Ontario based in Ottawa.

Plan to stay at a central hotel. The Andaz Hotel in the Byward Market is a great option, with beautiful views of Parliament from the top floor. If you’re looking to splurge a little, staying at the Fairmont Chateau Laurier is a very special experience.

To book your stay at the Andaz Hotel, click here . To book your stay at the Chateau Laurier, click here .

You can use this list of fun facts about Ottawa to help you plan. Ottawa is home to many informative tours , walks, experiences, markets , and finer things . If you plan to visit in the spring, that’s the perfect time to experience Ottawa’s famous tulip festival while they’re in bloom. You’re sure to find something that’s just right for you when you visit Ottawa.

If you are a fan of guided tours, there are also so many exciting ways to see Ottawa by tour. You can take biking tours, river cruises or walking tours, and far more. To discover all the great tours in Ottawa, click here.

Hire a Houseboat to Cruise the Rideau Canal

This is a very neat experience that would lend itself well to a weekend getaway. If you weren’t aware that you could rent a houseboat in Ontario, then you should definitely check out Le Boat Vacations. Le Boat offers experiences all over the world, but their boat trips along the Rideau Canal between Ottawa and Kingston are not to be missed.

You are essentially given a boat, instructed on how to use it, and you’re off! You’ll need to bring your own food and supplies, so it’s kind of like an elevated camping experience on the water. Plus, you’ll take in the sights of the UNESCO World Heritage site of the Rideau Canal the way it was intended: from the water.

Weekend Getaways in Ontario’s North (Sudbury and Beyond)

Aerial shot of Providence Bay Beach on Manitoulin Island

Spend a Weekend in “The Soo”

Sault Ste. Marie is a great place for a weekend getaway, especially for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. There are so many awesome things to do in “The Soo” . Make sure you save some time to check out the many great restaurants in town while you’re there, too!

Enjoy the Urban and Natural Attractions in Thunder Bay

Thunder Bay is home to some really fun activities and outings . You can go sailing in the summer months, or hiking and downhill skiing in the winter.

It has some pretty phenomenal historical sites to check out in the region , too. And their food scene and culinary delights aren’t to be missed.

Plan to Take in Some Stars in the Dark Sky

We are so lucky to have some incredible places for stargazing in Ontario . Not only can we enjoy the stars from so many different parts of the province, but we have several designated dark-sky preserves right here in the province of Ontario.

One of the newest official dedicated preserves is in Quetico Provincial Park . It’s a rugged park, located north of Lake Superior and bordering Minnesota. It’s one of several excellent places to see the Northern Lights in Ontario .

Head to Enchanting Manitoulin Island on Lake Huron

Manitoulin Island is another excellent island worth checking out on an Ontario weekend getaway. You’ll likely want to make a long weekend out of it if time permits, but it will certainly be worth it.

There are plenty of cruises and hikes that you can take to fully immerse yourself in the nature of the island. There are also several ways for you to learn about the Indigenous peoples of the island, and better understand the history of the place you’re visiting. The North Channel Cruise is especially one of our favourites to take in on this weekend getaway in Ontario.

Enjoy Science and Nature in Sudbury

There are so many exciting things to do in Sudbury . With everything from “sciencey” sites like The Big Nickel and Science North, to the Bell Park Walkway and the Lake Laurentian Conservation Area, it’s perfect for a family weekend getaway.

Sudbury is also an excellent destination for restaurants and delicious food . You’ll be sure to leave happy and satisfied after a visit to some of their amazing restaurants.

The Importance of Taking Weekend Getaways in Ontario

stella-ontario

We are so thrilled that you’ve taken the time to read through our list of weekend getaways in Ontario.

The options are truly endless for exploring this province, and with each trip, you’ll encounter small business owners, passionate hosts in hotels, inns, bed and breakfasts, and places perfect for reflection.

Our emphasis on “slow travel”, and taking in local delights is a philosophy we truly hope will stick at Ultimate Ontario. We see it as the future of travel here, and we hope you do, too.

There’s a lot worth exploring in this province. We hope you find that by the end of your weekend getaways in Ontario, you’ll come back happy for what you’ve seen, but also yearning for your next opportunity to get back on the road.

We’ll see you there.

Bri Mitchell

Bri Mitchell is a travel writer and content creator from Toronto, Ontario. She loves to highlight all things nature, food, wellness, history and adventures in her work. Bri writes and shares her travel experiences from across Canada and beyond on Instagram and TikTok @brimitchelltravels, and in her articles for travelingmitch.com , Ultimate Ontario, and here on We Explore Canada.

Tuesday 24th of August 2021

Spelt Lake Erie incorrectly, " the Lake Eerie North Shore Wine Region

On this weekend getaway, stay in Kingsville for the weekend. Jaunt out to the Lake Eerie."

Kevin Wagar

Thursday 26th of August 2021

Thanks for catching that!

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A Perfect Weekend to Tobermory and Bruce Peninsula National Park

Last Updated February 20, 2023 William Tang

You are here: Home » Travel Itineraries » A Perfect Weekend to Tobermory and Bruce Peninsula National Park

Nestled in the northern tip of the Bruce Peninsula, Tobermory is a special vacation spot for Ontarians and visitors alike in the summer months. There is a plethora of things to do up here in Tobermory and the Bruce Peninsula National Park .  Hikers can enjoy the world-famous and best stretch of the Bruce Trail.

The National Park has such a variety of terrain – jagged edged rocks, amphitheater like overhangs, caves, and your choice of boulder or sand beaches.  Visitors can ride a car-bearing ferry, the Chi-Cheemaun, across to Manitoulin Island or a speedboat out to Flowerpot Island and along the way take in the bay floor which is littered with ship wrecks of a different era.

In the main town of Tobermory is a cute collection of quaint restaurants, art galleries, shops and adventure outfitters.  Want to scuba dive?  Tobermory has that too!  It is truly the jewel of the north!

Read more Ontario content

  • Best weekend trips from Toronto
  • 15 top Niagara wine tours
  • Provincial Parks to see Ontario Fall colours
  • Best easy hike trails around the GTA
  • Amazing parks in Markham you probably never knew about

How to find the best travel deals?

  • Hottest deals – Bookmark the frequently updated travel deals page .
  • Car rentals – Save the most money through car rental coupon codes .
  • Hotels – Use corporate codes or get Genius 2 tier with Booking.
  • Flights – Have you ever heard of the “Everywhere” feature ?
  • Insurance – Make sure you’re covered for all of your adventure activities with the best travel insurance .

In This Article

Getting away from the big city

How to get to tobermory from toronto, day 1 – flowerpot island, day 2 – the grotto and bruce peninsula national park, tobermory trip costs, tips & tricks, close to town.

view of the grotto at bruce peninsula national park in weekend trip to tobermory

Bruce Peninsula and the famed Tobermory is one of the most spectacular places in Ontario. What will impress you the most about this region are the rock formations and the clarity of the water.

It’s not a trick of the lens. You can literally see straight down to the rock floor which is something you’d only expect to see on tropical beaches of the south.

While Tobermory feels like it’s a long distance from Toronto, it’s actually possible to make a trip of it in a weekend.

Personally, the best way to do this trip is to drive up later on Friday afternoon and book 3 nights at a Cyprus Lake campsite at Bruce Peninsula National Park . Alternatively, you could come up Saturday morning as well.

Don’t believe the nay-sayers, Tobermory can be totally done on a 2 day weekend!

The map below shows that it takes roughly 4 hours and 17 minutes from downtown Toronto to get up to Tobermory and Bruce Peninsula.

To maximize your time here, try to head out as early as possible.

Google Map screenshot of the 4 hour journey from Toronto to Tobermory for a weekend trip

Photo Essay of What A Weekend in Tobermory Looks Like

weekend trips from london ontario

Whether you’re coming to Tobermory Friday night or Saturday, you can officially kick things off with lunch in the town of Tobermory where you can’t miss The Fish & Chips Place .

After a tour around town, booked our tickets with Blue Heron Cruises and their tour which is a round trip trip to Flowerpot Island with stops to two 19th century shipwrecks , and excellent views of Big Tub Lighthouse .

To close things off, return to camp such as the one at the the Poplars Campgrounds of Bruce Peninsula National Park which wraps around Cyprus Lake .

End off the day with a nice fire and of course s’mores!

weekend trips from london ontario

After a lazy morning around camp and making breakfast, we spend the rest of the second day exploring Bruce Peninsula National Park where we’re already in.

The beauty of a campsite at the park is that you can easily walk to many of the highlights including The Grotto , Boulder Beach, and various trails including Marr Lake Trail.

On a hot summer’s day, there are plenty of chances to jump into the water and enjoy the crisp clear waters.

We spend the night at our campsite and head back to Toronto early the next day.

A lot of people ask about the costs for trips so trying to be more diligent about capturing this info.  This is the cost per person.

  • Gas – $20
  • Camp food – $20
  • Drinks – $15
  • Camping supplies – $10
  • Flowerpot Island Tour – $45
  • The Fish & Chips lunch – $10

Total Costs:  $120

  • Reserve early – We booked really late and there were literally only 1-2 campsites left for us to pick from.  If you want your pick of sites or a chance to book yurt huts, I would do it as soon as bookings are available. Remember that this is not a provincial park so you’ll be doing reservations with Parks Canada instead of Ontario Parks.
  • No showers – Keep in mind that there are no shower facilities in the park so just a heads up.
  • Gets cold – This is after all the north and when we were there in late June, nights dropped down to 10C.  Water temperatures were ice cold at 3C.  We talked to a few locals and they said at most the water only gets to 10C in late August.  Packing wise, be prepared to layer up at night.
  • Down the rabbit hole – There’s hidden rabbit hole that can get you down into the Overhanging Point amphitheater down below. It’s easy to miss and a little daunting but totally worth the detour.

Places to stay near Tobermory

If you’re thinking about heading up to Tobermory and looking for an alternative to camping, there are a ton of properties available that are great for large groups, families, and couples.

entrance to adventure the bruce inn in tobermory

THE ADVENTURE BRUCE INN

This property is more of an inn but with its proximity to the town of Tobermory, it makes a great stay from a convenience point of view.

Read the reviews

CHECK RATES

front entrance to lionheart guesthouse b&b near tobermory

LIONHEART GUESTHOUSE AND B&B

While this is further south and located right by Lions Head Provincial Park, this is a comfy place to stay that comes with breakfast included.  This os more of a traditional bed and breakfast type of place.  It is also cheaper than staying inside Tobermory.

What you should read next

  • Guide to 11 of the Best Waterfalls of Hamilton
  • Best parks in Vaughan, Ontario
  • Parks you need to visit in Richmond Hill
  • How to find Muskoka cottages
  • Best Airbnb Muskoka cottages on the market

About William Tang

William Tang is the Chief of Awesome behind the award-winning Going Awesome Places which is focused on outdoor adventure, and experiential travel. His true passion lies in telling stories, inspiring photography and videos, and writing detailed itineraries and travel guides. He is a member of Travel Media Association of Canada (TMAC), Society of American Travel Writers (SATW), Adventure Travel Trade Association (ATTA), and Travel Massive. He has also been featured in publications such as Reader's Digest, Entrepreneur, Men's Journal, and Haute Living. Make sure to learn more about William Tang to find out his story and how Going Awesome Places started.

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Marc Bourbonnais says

April 7, 2022 at 7:13 PM

Such a surreal place! Can’t believe this place is in Canada!

Wingman says

June 26, 2020 at 5:15 AM

Gorgeous photos and yet another reason for me to visit the National Park. and thanks for the small chart of COSTS, TIPS & TRICKS, it will help me a lot.

August 26, 2019 at 10:38 PM

That fish and chips place actually looks amazing. I stopped for fish and chips at Dockside Willie’s in Wiarton before heading further into the Bruce. I wish I waited! Well…there’s always next year. Thanks for the guide Will.

Will Tang says

August 27, 2019 at 11:10 AM

Hey Bobby, thanks for reading and thanks for the tip about Dockside Willie’s!

Chanel | Cultural Xplorer says

October 28, 2015 at 10:06 PM

Will be heading to Toronto (and Canada) for the first time this summer and I was looking to add in a couple of small trips as well, glad I came across this post ^_^ Will be bookmarking!

June 17, 2015 at 5:56 PM

Ugh can Canada get anymore beautiful! I love these little hidden gems, can’t wait to get there one day!

June 17, 2015 at 8:23 PM

Thanks for stopping by Pippa! Tobermory sure is a hidden gem. It’s absolutely gorgeous in the summer. Hope you’ll be able to go someday soon.

July 10, 2014 at 10:41 PM

That looks great! There’s just so much to love about Toronto! Thanks for the tip.

July 11, 2014 at 10:42 AM

Thanks for your comments! Yes I think most people don’t realize there’s this dramatic and beautiful landscape just a few hours north of Toronto.

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Whether you need something romantic or two days of family bonding, a weekend away in Ontario is sure to delight any and all travellers.

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haliburton ontario

Explore Haliburton Ontario: A Nature Lover’s Dream

Haliburton Ontario, is a hidden gem tucked away in the heart of cottage country with vast forests, pristine lakes, and a unique small-town spirit. Here, you will be able to truly experience the outdoors in a way you simply can’t in the city. From camping at a rustic campsite on one of Haliburton Forest’s many…

places to visit in montreal

Best Places to Visit in Montréal | A Weekend Getaway Guide

Are you planning a weekend trip to visit Montréal? If so, we have you covered! After enjoying a trip to the city for the first time in over ten years, we wanted to make it possible for every travel lover to experience all this beautiful city has to offer. From world-class museums and stunning architecture…

Lanaudière Québec

6 Things To Do In Lanaudière Québec

During a recent getaway to Trois-Rivières, Quebec, we had the opportunity to visit the Lanaudiere area. Located between the Laurentian Mountains and the Saint Lawrence River, many refer to Lanaudière as “the green region,” and for good reason! With outdoor activities available in all four seasons, it’s the perfect location for any outdoor lover or…

Things to Do in Trois-Rivières

Things To Do In Trois-Rivières, Quebec | A Weekend Guide To The Mauricie Region

Often driven past en route from Montréal to Quebec City, the city of Trois-Rivières is a must-see destination and the perfect place to base yourself for a weekend getaway or road trip. It is the second oldest city in North America after Quebec City. There is a wealth of history to explore, including learning about…

Things To Do In Buffalo

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

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

things to do in rochester ny

Fun Things To Do In Rochester NY | Road Trip Guide For First-Timer Visitors

Less than three hours from Toronto (2 hours and 59 minutes, to be exact, not including traffic, construction and crossing the border) is this beautiful hidden gem of a city called Rochester. Once known as the Flour City due to its Mill history, it is now known as Flower City due to its beautiful horticulture…

things to do in thunder bay

Fun Things To Do In Thunder Bay Ontario | A Weekend Of Culture, Nature & Indigenous Experiences

Along the northwestern shore of Gitchi Gumee or Lake Superior, the largest Great Lake in North America is the city of Thunder Bay, Ontario. There are so many fun things to do in Thunder Bay, whether exploring one of the nearby provincial parks, shopping the market, or visiting an art gallery in its downtown area. …

Ideas For Ontario Weekend Getaways

There are some amazing spots offering relaxing and enjoyable mini-vacation in Ontario. You can hike through Huntsville, go gallivanting through wine country or experience the beauty of Niagara Falls. 

Get a real taste of Ontario in Prince Edward County, the province’s gastronomic capital, and discover our very own London City, just a couple hours’ drive from Toronto. Or perhaps you prefer skiing through the pine forests of Hardwood Hills and then tracking down one of the many gorgeous waterfalls.

You can find river rafting, caves to investigate, and waterfalls to swim under. Plus, there are mine tours, plane rides, and some magnificent rock climbing areas. 

But if you need something less hardcore, there are also lavender fields, fascinating small towns to stroll through, and many historic buildings to see. You’ll find stunning places to visit on your Ontario weekend trips during any season. 

With the abundance of outdoor splendour and thrilling activities, last-minute Ontario getaways prove to be the best decisions ever made.

Find the Best Weekend Getaways in Ontario

Are you planning a couples weekend getaway in Ontario? The romance is aplenty in this fantastic region. With its Victorian architecture, splendid natural beauty, and the friendliest locals.

And if you’re on the lookout for weekend retreats in Ontario, you can be sure that there are numerous safe and secure spots to escape from your busy life and just unwind. 

2 days in ottawa

For fun weekend getaways, Ontario has enough to fill a 3-day itinerary and more. There are beaches to visit, museums to browse, and national parks to explore. Ontario weekend getaways are great for locals and visitors alike because there is so much to do and see that everyone is bound to discover something new. 

See our posts below for Ontario getaway inspiration and advice.

Plan Your Weekend Getaway in Ontario

You won’t be hard-pressed to find incredible places to go in Ontario for a weekend. Whether you’re aiming for an outdoor adrenaline rush or a quiet cabin space to fish and read a book, Ontario getaways offer a little bit of everything. 

You can easily plan the perfect 2- or 3-day staycation in Ontario, even if you’ve lived in the province forever. And if you’re from one of the neighbouring regions, last-minute weekend getaways to Ontario allow you to still have plenty of time to chill out after your journey.

Don’t miss out on the perfect  weekend getaway in Ontario . Pack your bags, select your destination, and go explore!

how to save gas on a road trip

How To Save Gas On A Road Trip | 10 Ways To Plan and Budget

Are you planning a holiday and want to know how to save gas on a road trip? This is no easy question to answer, as several factors influence how much gas your car uses. We’ve done many road trips from Ontario and have discovered the best ways to save gas when driving. With these 10…

Preparing for a Road Trip

Preparing for a Road Trip | A Car Checklist for Safe Travelling

Travelling is one of the most enjoyable things to do, but in the same breath, it can be frustrating. This is why preparing for a road trip can be a real game changer between a stunning vacation and one you’d rather forget sooner than later. With this in mind, we’ve come up with all the…

things to do in kenora

Fun Things To Do In Kenora, Ontario, On Your Next Road Trip

Located near the Ontario/Manitoba border, Kenora is often seen as a quick stopover on a longer road trip to visit Winnipeg, Manitoba. But we quickly learned that it had so much more to offer than that! With a beautiful lakefront view, beaches, hiking trails, and boating, Kenora is an ideal getaway for anyone who enjoys…

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

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

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

thunder bay to winnipeg road trip

2-Day Thunder Bay to Winnipeg Road Trip: All You Need to Know

Ontario is a big majestic province full of spectacular natural vistas, outdoor activities, and fun things to do. This should be no surprise if you’ve read our posts and followed along on our journeys. Although our day trips and weekend getaways are quite popular, nothing beats a good old-fashioned multi-day road trip –– especially when…

things to do in port hope | Port Hope Town Hall

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

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

road trip with dogs

5 Tips For A Successful Road Trip With Dogs Or Cats

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

electric vehicles ontario

Epic Day Trips With Electric Vehicles Ontario | Canada by EV

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

road trips from toronto

Best Road Trips From Toronto | Weekend Getaways & Scenic Drives

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

things to do in huntsville ontario

Things To Do In Huntsville Ontario | Ultimate Weekend Itinerary

When it gets dark in the forest, it gets dark. No street lights, porch lights, or car lights, just the light flickering from the stars, the moon, and their reflections in the ripples of the black lake. This, and the spotty internet in the wilderness, is the true definition of unplugging. Unplugging is one of the…

road trip from toronto

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

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

quebec-city-weekend

The Ultimate Weekend In Quebec City | Travel Guide & Itinerary

Do you believe in love at first sight? Because that’s precisely what you can expect when you first set foot in Quebec City, and a weekend in Quebec City is a full-on love affair. This city has old colonial charms like cobblestone streets, narrow buildings, and a vibrant modern lifestyle. It may be a predominantly…

things to do in collingwood

Fun Things To Do In Collingwood Ontario | Blue Mountain & Collingwood Attractions

If you’re planning a weekend ski trip to Blue Mountain and looking for fun things to do in Collingwood, Ontario, there are plenty of activities to choose from. Whether you want to go hiking or enjoy some live music, they have you covered. You’ll also appreciate the nearby trails and lakes if you love outdoor…

things to do in kingston

40 Fun Things To Do In Kingston, Ontario (Weekend Guide)

If you’re looking to travel locally, Canada has some fantastic places that often go undiscovered by locals. If you’re looking for fun things to do in Kingston, Ontario, you’ve come to the right place! Kingston was featured on The Amazing Race Canada. It was home to the lead singer for the iconic Canadian band The Tragically…

Things To Do In Milton

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

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

spring in ontario

Spring In Ontario | 16 Activities to Have a Blooming Time

Spring in Ontario brings the beginning of nature’s wake from its hibernation and becomes alive with activity, much different from the snow-capped fun of Ontario winter activities. With the busy bees and brooks babbling surrounded by bouquets of bolstering buds, the spring season in Canada is a fantastic festival of natural wonders.  From the fun-filled festivals…

Things To Do In Kleinburg

Things To Do In Kleinburg, Ontario, In A Day

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

things to do in oakville

Fun Things To Do In Oakville Ontario On A Weekend Getaway

Oakville is a great place to visit for a weekend getaway. There are plenty of fun things to do in Oakville, which is located close to Toronto, making it easy to get to. It’s also a short drive from Burlington and Milton (all three towns are in the Halton Region). With Black History Month and…

Things to Do in Guelph

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

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

Cherry Blossom Ontario Guide | Best Locations & Insider Tips

Cherry Blossom Ontario Guide | Best Locations & Insider Tips

When you think of cherry blossom trees, what countries do you think of? Probably Japan, China, or South Korea. However, there’s no need to fly thousands of miles anymore. You can find them in Canada, too, with the help of our cherry blossom Ontario guide. That’s right. Come cherry blossom season in Ontario; you’re in…

Things To Do In Unionville

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

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

uxbridge ontario

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

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

Things to Do in Burlington

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

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

Maple Festivals Ontario

Maple Syrup Festivals Ontario | Seeking Out The Syrup Scene 2024

As winter turns to spring, a sweet aroma fills the air here in Ontario. It’s the unmistakable smell of maple syrup, a beloved culinary tradition that has been a part of Ontario’s and Canada’s cultural heritage for centuries.  And what better way to celebrate this delicious syrup than visiting one of the many sugar shacks…

fun things to do in oakville

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

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

weekend getaways ontario - flower pot

Best Weekend Getaways Ontario Has To Offer | Resorts, Romantic Places & More

Who wouldn’t love to experience the greatest weekend getaways Ontario has to offer? Whether you’re travelling solo, with family, or with a loved one, there are plenty of unique options close to cities like Toronto.  It doesn’t matter what time of the year it is or what you want to do. Ontario offers some of…

places to see in toronto

Places To Visit In Toronto – Top 35+ Toronto Attractions

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

Romantic Getaways Ontario

Romantic Getaways Ontario | Weekend Trips for Couples

When it comes to Valentine’s Day, love and all things romantic, here at Road Trip Ontario, one of us is thoroughly excited, and the other is already dreading all the cheesiness. We’ll let you guess who’s who! Despite this, Ontario is such a beautiful province that some places scream romance; outdoor campfire cuddles, indoor fireplace…

best road trips from toronto

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

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

things to do in kitchener

Fun Things to Do in Kitchener, Ontario

Located in the Region of Waterloo, Kitchener is a wonderful and vibrant place. The town’s mixture of activities and its small-town vibe makes it the ideal place to explore. It’s also only a 75-minute drive from Toronto, making it a great place for a day trip from Toronto.  Whether you enjoy spending an exciting day…

almonte ontario

Almonte Ontario: Best Things To Do On A Weekend Getaway

Almonte Ontario is a charming town filled with history, delicious eats, interesting shops, and picturesque streets. So beautiful that it is the backdrop to many cheesy holidays and Christmas movies. We call them cheesy to sound cool, knowing that we always watch a few when Christmas rolls around.  The 19th Century mill town is surrounded…

things to do in st jacobs

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

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

things to do in fergus ontario

The Best Things to Do in Fergus Ontario

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

places to visit in ontario during winter

13 Best Places To Visit In Ontario During Winter

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

facts about ontario

64 Fun Facts About Ontario | Fun Ontario Facts & Trivia For The Next Road Trip

Is your voice starting to hurt from belting out all those classic road trip tunes? Maybe those repeating dashed white lines are starting to blur? Are you looking for a way to pass the time on your next road trip? How about some fun Ontario trivia that will have you loving the province even more?…

things to do cambridge ontario

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

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

ontario winter getaways

Ontario Winter Getaways | 14 Of The Best Snowy Vacation Spots

As the first snowflakes of winter fall, it’s then that you quickly realize that the cold season is approaching. And looking for new adventures or Ontario winter getaways can be discouraging with the cold front. But this guide delves deeper than just a few winter hotel deals. This guide has some unique Ontario getaways all…

2 days in ottawa

25 Fun Things To Do In Ottawa This Weekend | The Ultimate Ottawa Trip

Road Trip Ontario wouldn’t be complete if we didn’t curate the ultimate list of fun things to do in Ottawa. It is the country’s capital (despite what most Torontonians think, feel or choose to accept), and it’s definitely one of the best places to spend a weekend getaway. Despite the hockey rivalry between the Toronto…

ski resorts in ontario

15 Best Ski Resorts in Ontario | Top Ski Hills Around the Province

When it comes to Ontario ski resorts, the province has over 50 of them. So, you’ll have no problem finding a place to catch freshies down the hills. But what are the best ski resorts in Ontario for your ideal winter break? Knowing which resort best suits you can be challenging if you’re a beginner…

things to do in port perry ontario

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

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

christmas markets in ontario

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

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

winter activities in ontario

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

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

things to do in barrie

Things To Do In Barrie, Ontario | Ultimate Travel Guide

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

Haunted Places in Ontario

Haunted Places in Ontario | Eerie Mansions, Forts & More

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

Indigenous Tourism Ontario

Indigenous Tourism Ontario – 7 Incredible Cultural Experiences

When exploring Ontario, it’s easy to get completely lost in the majestic beauty of the lakes, mountains, and forests around you. And it’s even easier to immerse yourself in quaint towns and busy cities. But another essential and enjoyable part of travelling through this part of Canada is discovering the deep and impressive aboriginal culture…

pumpkin picking ontario

Pumpkin Picking Ontario | 16 Best Pumpkin Patches to Visit

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

apple picking ontario

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

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

things to do in napanee

Things To Do In Napanee Ontario + 5 Days In Lennox & Addington County

If you’re looking for things to do in Napanee on an Ontario road trip –– we got you! This post will guide you through the best Napanee tourism and attractions in Lennox & Addington County (aka L&A).  On the whole, Napanee and Lennox & Addington County have always been a place that We’d drive past or…

Places To Visit in Fall in Ontario

15 Places To Visit in Fall in Ontario | Best Autumn Activities

Ontario provides a charming setting for a relaxing getaway as the weather gets cooler and the leaves begin to turn. Ontario is nestled in east-central Canada for those unfamiliar with our beautiful province. It is home to breathtaking lakes, lush forests, extensive national parks, and the renowned Niagara Falls. With these 15 places to visit…

things to do in stratford ontario

30+ Things To Do In Stratford Ontario | Festivals, Trails, Food, Stores & More

Every time we visit a new city or town in Ontario, two things always happen. One, the destination becomes our new favourite destination and two, we start telling ourselves that we’d be able to live there. Once it’s time to leave, that destination is forever imprinted in our hearts. Of those cities, Stratford stands out….

things to do in woodstock ontario

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

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

gpsmycity

GPSmyCity: Lose Your Self, Without Getting Lost

At Road Trip Ontario, we are committed to showing you what Ontario has to offer. Whether it’s our inspiring Day Trips & Weekend Getaway itineraries, enabling our readers to share stories and photos in our Facebook Group or partnering with Tourism Boards, local entrepreneurs or companies like Firefly Books to giveaway some excellent books (Waterfalls…

what to do in stratford ontario

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

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

bath ontario

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

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

Sandbanks Beach

Sandbanks Beach | Camping, Dunes & Beach in South Eastern Ontario

Sandbanks beach offers camping and activities along a scenic stretch of Lake Ontario. We love visiting the beaches and wineries in Prince Edward County during spring and summer for a much-needed vacation in nature. Are you looking for things to do in South Eastern Ontario? From swimming, cycling, hiking, paddling, and camping, to fishing, boating,…

best beaches in ontario

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

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

Things To Do Waterloo Region

Weekend Things To Do | Waterloo Region Edition

With gorgeous green landscapes and charming cities in its midst, the Waterloo region offers the perfect swirl of man-made and natural wonders to discover. Whether you’re a city mouse or an eager beaver for nature, this region has something for every type of adventurer. A blissful getaway to the Waterloo region in Ontario will provide…

Glamping Ontario

Glamping Ontario | Luxury Yurt, Dome & Cabin Camping

If you’ve been itching to enjoy Ontario’s wilderness but can’t bring yourself to sleep in a tent, on the floor, without amenities like a hot shower and flushing toilets, we have good news for you – glamping Ontario. Glamping is taking the world by storm, and it’s easy to see why.  This type of camping…

places to go in waterloo

Things To Do In Waterloo Ontario | Top Activities & Attractions

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

Winter Camping Ontario

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

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

what is open on christmas day in toronto

What Is Open On Christmas Day In Toronto

With the festive season in full swing, you might already have all your Christmas plans in order. However, if time got away from you and you’re wondering what is open on Christmas Day in Toronto, well… Toronto has a few options available to make your Christmas Day a bit less stressful.  Below is a list…

Christmas Getaways in Ontario

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

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

Christmas Tree Farm Ontario

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

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

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Kitchener-Waterloo Oktoberfest 2

Kitchener-Waterloo Oktoberfest | Best Bavarian Event in Ontario

Known as the biggest Oktoberfest in North America, the Kitchener-Waterloo Oktoberfest is a beer-filled Bavarian festival that is a Wunderbar wonderland of cultural and exciting activities. While November brings Thanksgiving and December is reserved for Christmas tree picking, October is the month of pumpkin picking and celebrating German-Canadian history.  Don’t know your dirndl from your…

things to do in brantford

Fun Things To Do In Brantford On A Day Trip

The city of Brantford in Ontario, Canada, is famously known as The Telephone City. With so many fun things to do in Brantford, Alexander Graham Bell, the inventor of the telephone, called this area home, and this is still a significant point of appeal for tourists. But this city has so much to offer its…

best wineries in prince edward county

Best Wineries in Prince Edward County (1 Weekend, 11 Exquisite Vineyards)

Renowned for its Chardonnay and Pinot Noir, it’s no surprise the residents of “The County” are live amongst the best wineries in Prince Edward County. Prince Edward County has solidified itself as one of the best wine regions in Canada. With superb weather and ideal soil, together with the winds gusting off Lake Ontario, creates…

what to do in burlington ontario

What To Do In Burlington Ontario (Activities for a Weekend Getaway)

what to do in burlington

lake rosseau fishing

Lake Rosseau Fishing: Best Fishing Spots Near Gravenhurst + Ice Fishing

The Muskoka Lakeland region in southern Ontario is a Canadian paradise filled with enchanting natural beauty. Whether you’re exploring fishing spots in Huntsville, boating in Muskoka Lakes, or hiking in Georgian Bay, Muskoka is the ideal getaway destination for those looking to reconnect with nature. If you’re lucky enough to be travelling around Muskoka on…

pickering museum village

Pickering Museum Village, Ontario | Visitor’s Guide

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

andrews scenic acres

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

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

blind-river-ontario

Blind River Ontario, Roadtrip from Toronto | 6-Day Itinerary

A quaint Canadian town tucked away in northern Ontario, Blind River is a charming fishing town. The town gets its name from the Blind River, which flows south from Pathfinder Lake in the Great Lakes Basin into the North Channel of Lake Huron. This body of water is called the “Blind River” because it’s difficult…

Huntsville Hikes,

Huntsville Hikes, ON | 10 Best Muskoka Hiking Trails

Huntsville, Ontario, is the largest town in the Muskoka area. The Muskoka forest and river give Canada a lush, green utopia waiting to be explored. And the many hiking trails near Huntsville showcase the beauty of the land and make for a great active activity.  Whether you’re into challenging hikes or easier walking trails, Ontario,…

events this weekend

Free Events This Weekend

Road Trip Ontario is currently the top Canadian resource for planning a weekend getaway in Ontario. Our newsletter subscribers and Facebook Group members have informed us they enjoy weekend road trips the most. But if you’re looking to attend free local events this weekend and want to get out of the house for a few…

things to do this weekend

Things To Do This Weekend In Ontario — Events, Festivals And More!

Bored? Tired of looking at the four walls? Looking for things to do this weekend in Ontario? We got you! We scoured the province and curated a list of amazing and fun local events and activities, whether riding solo, with your friends or loved ones, or having the little one in tow. You’ll find everything…

Huntsville Camping

Huntsville Camping | Best Huntsville Campgrounds for an Epic Weekend Getaway

Huntsville, Ontario, draws travellers from far and wide. With tree-covered hills and sparkling lakes dotting the landscape, this is a beautiful part of Canada and should be added to any Ontario Itinerary.  There is no better way for those looking to get into the Canadian wilderness than camping, Huntsville camping. Spend your days exploring your…

huntsville fishing spots

Huntsville Fishing Spots: The Top 5 In The Muskoka, Region

With plenty of freshwater lakes, the Muskoka region is a paradise for keen fishers, both beginners and experts alike. Do you love the serenity of fly fishing or the excitement of reeling in fighting fish? Or maybe you’re just like me, who loves peace, wants the fighting fish but gets nothing, nada, not even a…

tiny tim the mini donkey

Spending The Day With Tiny Tim The Mini Donkey

I am a city boy. I was born in Toronto, I live in Toronto, I work in Toronto and I play in Toronto. I find the sensory overload soothing – bright lights, screaming sirens, loud music, cars honking, trains and streetcars rumbling along tracks and the loud obnoxious laughter of drunk individuals bar hopping. I…

Event Submission

Share Your Event On Our Calendar Are you planning to host or promote an event or festival in Ontario? You have landed on the perfect platform! Our events calendar is the most preferred destination for local event hosts like you. We offer both free and paid listing options to make your event more accessible to…

Land Acknowledgement

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

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

Pronunciation

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

African Ancestral Acknowledgement

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

Keep Calm and Road Trip ON

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weekend trips from london ontario

weekend trips from london ontario

Road trips from Quebec

Itineraries and road trips.

One of the best ways to explore the big cities, small towns, family-friendly attractions and vast wilderness of Ontario is by packing all your essentials into your vehicle and hitting the road. Road trips give you the freedom to explore the province at your own pace while pursuing the experiences that best fit your needs and interests. 

Not sure where to start planning? Check out some of our popular itineraries that span across the entire province. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing vacation or an adrenaline-filled adventure, there’s an ideal trip waiting for you in Ontario.

Whether it’s visiting the famous Niagara Falls, exploring the numerous attractions and touring the lush wine regions, there are plenty of activities for all travellers to the Niagara Region.

Aerial view of a person descending a zipline against the backdrop of Niagara Falls

Top things to do in Niagara

A clock tower divides the two-way road, where on either side are parked cars and houses nestled among trees.

3-day Ontario road trip: Wine and culinary delights

People enjoying a day ziplining over Niagara Falls

15-day Ontario family road trip

Pinkish sky illuminating the mist over Niagara Falls with a bird soaring.

4-day Ontario road trip: Niagara family fun

A birds eye view of the tall buildings and parkland of Toronto

Classic Ontario road trip

A family of five in front of a historic home

4-day Black history road trip in Southern Ontario for families

Toronto and gta.

As Canada’s largest populated city, Toronto and the Greater Toronto Area features countless events and landmarks. Experience the CN Tower, Art Gallery of Ontario, Roy Thomson Hall and its many other attractions to see everything this city has to offer.

Several hands on a map

Toronto to Ottawa road trip

A man canoeing on a river with the Toronto cityscape behind him

Top things to do in Toronto

A man takes a selfie on a boat cruise overlooking the Toronto.

3 days in Toronto

An amusement park filled with water slides, roller coasters and free fall rides.

5-day Ontario road trip: Adventures, attractions and sports in and around Toronto

People enjoying the evening in front of and around the large outdoor Toronto sign , which is lit with multicolours as the center piece for the city hall, surrounded with tall buildings.

6-7-day Ontario road trip: Toronto to Ottawa highlight reel

The capital of Canada since 1857, Ottawa boasts numerous historical sites, landscapes, cultural attractions and natural beauty. It includes popular stops like the Parliament Building, Canadian Museum of Nature, ByWard Market, Rideau Canal and more.

Close up of the arm of a person with a wooden paddle in a canoe on a lake

11-day Canadian canoe trip

A dark and cloudy sky over the river looking at Parliament Hill

Top things to do in Ottawa

Northern ontario.

Explore the wilderness in Ontario’s large provincial parks and boreal forests. With urban centres close to nature and numerous outdoors activities available, Northern Ontario is the ideal destination for adventure lovers.

A sail boat sails past a white and red lighthouse atop a rocky coastline

13-day adventure trip: Northern Ontario

Reflections on water of a catamaran sailing towards hills in the distance as the sky is illuminated a purple gray.

5-7-day Ontario road trip: Lake Superior's Ontario coast

A waterfront full of people lounging, walking and wading in a fountain pool, including an area to dock boats, with access to a community building

4-day Ontario road trip: Lake Superior to Lake of the Woods

A person kayaking on the water during a sunset.

4-7-day Ontario road trip: Parry Sound to Northeastern Ontario

Family friendly.

Fun and exciting entertainment across Ontario that will delight adults and kids of all ages.

A stone covered plaque beside a historic log building.

Georgian Bay Black history road trip

Nature and water routes.

Numerous lakes, rivers and streams can be found across the wilderness of Ontario. From the shores of the Great Lakes and Georgian Bay all the way to the coastline of Lake Superior in the north, explore this province’s rugged outdoor landscapes and beautiful waters.

An aerial view of a resort tucked into a forest surrounded by lake

Lakeside summer getaways in Ontario

  • Read more Lakeside summer getaways in Ontario

Aerial view of a small rocky island in a lake

Georgian Bay highlights tour

Several restaurants and accommodations with floating docks surrounding a body of water with paddle boats docked.

5-day Ontario road trip: The Blue Mountains, Wasaga Beach, Orillia and Muskoka

Charming small towns.

These small towns in Ontario highlight their old-world charm that’s perfect for culture enthusiasts. Enjoy their local culinary treats, historical museums, architectural heritage sites, classical theatre, unique shopping boutiques and more.

Children in swimming clothes are having fun in the pool as lifeguards watch the kids

4-day Ontario road trip: Grand River and Stratford explorer

Goderich Square in the middle and streets on either side with trees all around

4-day Ontario road trip: European inspiration

Two people walking on a boardwalk over a marsh as the sun sets

6-day road trip: Southwest Ontario

A child playing with a stick on a beach during the pink sunset filled sky.

4-day Ontario road trip: Southwest and West Coast sampler

Road trips for us travellers.

Travelling from the U.S.? Discover all the memorable sights in southern Ontario, from the attraction-filled big cities in and around Toronto to the wondrous outdoor landscapes of the Niagara region.

A woman carries a standup paddle board to the beach.

Enjoy beaches, wine and nature along Canada’s southernmost shores

Four people share a dish at Quetzal Toronto, a MICHELIN-starred restaurant.

Windsor to Toronto: Entertainment, sports and dining adventure

A couple view the Parliament buildings from Major’s Hill Park in Ottawa.

Road trip to Ottawa, Kingston and Prince Edward County

Two hands toasting two glasses of wine with vineyards in the background.

Niagara to Toronto: Vineyards vistas to downtown views

A family of three feeds a giraffe a carrot at African Lion Safari.

Family road trip to theme parks, attractions and summer fun in the Toronto area

Riders zipline high above the Niagara River at the WildPlay Zipline.

Summer family fun in Niagara Falls and beyond

Experience culture, cuisine and vibrant festivals across the border from Ottawa to Kingston and beyond. Explore Francophone communities, outdoor activities and fun attractions in Northeastern Ontario. 

A group of tourists feed elk on a wilderness tour in Timmins.

Family road trip in Northeastern Ontario

A couple holding hands walking in Ottawa.

From the capital to The County

A young girl plays on the Ottawa sign in the ByWard Market.

Summer family fun getaway in Ottawa

Looking for ontario travel advice.

Our experts are here to help you plan your perfect trip. Call or book today.

ON 2 CONTINENTS

BEST FAMILY DAY TRIPS FROM LONDON, ONTARIO

On weekends and days off, family day trips to nearby places of interest are the best way to spend precious time with our fast-growing children. In this article, I’ll walk you through several ideas for awesome kid-friendly day trips to go on from London, Ontario. These mini road trips are perfect for families with children younger than teenagers and you can enjoy them from spring to fall . The suggested day trips mostly cover the area of southwestern Ontario and some reach further destinations, all under 3 hours of driving.

Family day trips by car are like mini-vacations and we should enjoy them as often as possible. Two weeks of vacation time a year is hopelessly short. Luckily, we have 52 perfect weekends and we should make the most of them. Regular short day trips and scenic drives near home can tremendously increase the joy and fun elements in our life. When we go out and explore new places, it gives us new impulses and energy. As we go to locations and spend time with family, it recharges us. Fun day trips with kids are milestones in the long drag of boring, work-and-duty-filled workdays. They are the stuff our memories are made of. We won’t remember those grocery shopping Fridays or Monday meetings with our boss. We’ll remember and forever cherish the fun-filled time with our kids in lovely places.

I know travelling with children is demanding, especially when they are younger than 7 or 8. Everything is about the right choice, good timing, and preparation. So, let’s have a look at a few points we need to consider before we take our family on a day trip.

If you are looking for ideas for day trips  near London, Ontario with older kids, here is an article focused on teenagers: BEST FAMILY DAY TRIPS WITH TEENAGERS FROM LONDON, ONTARIO

Table of Contents

BEFORE YOU SET OUT

Plan ahead a bit. Choose a day with sunny weather and make sure kids are well rested before the trip. Additionally, pack a day pack with snacks, sandwiches, and water for all members of the crew. Personally, I don’t like to rely on buying food on the go and wherever we happen to be. It’s hard to find good quality and nutritious food as you go. If you don’t search ahead for a particular eatery you want to try and you don’t have sandwiches with you, you’ll end up with roadside junk food chains.

Even though in Canada and the US public washrooms are quite clean and plentiful, the current political mess has shown us that they might not be open and available when you need them the most. So, from now on, we always travel with a portable potty as well. But it’s not a regular baby potty. It’s a simple and cheap version for the whole family. All you need is a utility bucket, a large garbage bag, a box of tissue paper, toilet paper, and a bucket-fitting toilet seat with a lid that you can buy in large home hardware stores. It can literally save your kid’s life and your sanity in those stressful moments when all public washrooms are closed. A must-have van and road trip accessory.

Now, let’s dive into these fun, must-try places to drive near London, Ontario:

BEST PLACES TO GO NEAR LONDON ONTARIO WITHIN 1 HOUR

Short family day trips from London, ON are ideal with young children and toddlers. Small kids are not the best car travellers, so it’s wise to keep the car seat time to the minimum.

GREENVIEW AVIARIES PARK AND ZOO

OPEN IN 2021.

A fun place for family day-tripping from May to October is this private ZOO and leisure park located only one hour of driving from London, ON. It’s best to bring the whole family or befriended friends with kids for extra fun. You can spend there anywhere from 2 to 6 hours. You can start with a leisurely walk around the ZOO, then enjoy a picnic and playtime in the park area.

Boy feeding baby goats

From local to exotic, the ZOO has over 80 different animal species in their care. Bring wet wipes and sanitizing gel to wipe your children’s hands on the go because they’ll pet and feed lots of cute baby goats, ponies, donkeys, and perhaps camels.

If you forget to bring your picnic basket, you can buy refreshments from the on-site bistro. Your kids will love the spacious play area with plenty of climbing structures, zip lines, ball courts, and a splash pad, so bring a bathing suit and an extra set of clothes just in case.

If you go: The ZOO is open 9 am to 8 pm daily from May to Thanksgiving, including the holidays. Admission tickets cost $17.00 for adults (16-64), seniors 65+ save $2 and children (4-15) pay $12.50 each. Small children under 2 have free entry.

Address: 12734 Talbot Trail, Hwy 3, Morpeth, (R.R. 1 Ridgetown), Ontario, Tel: 519-674 3025

Driving time from London, ON : 1:02 hr and 91 km

–> Also read this detailed article about visiting Greenview Aviaries Park & ZOO .
  • PINERY PROVINCIAL PARK

Pinery Provincial Park in Ontario

Coastal sand dunes in Pinery Provincial Park

A favourite locals’ escape to nature, within 60 minutes from London you can be hiking, cycling, kayaking, canoeing, or sweet-doing-nothing on the beach. Plenty of camping spots, but book early. The park has ten hiking trails, a 14-km cycling trail, seven beaches for humans, and two for humans and their dogs.  Special highlights of the park are the oak savanna and coastal sand dunes.

If you go: Open year-round but check out the Ontario Parks website for alerts and updates. Daily use pass for vehicles is $21.00 with tax. You can download the Pinery Provincial Park map here .

Did you know when you buy an annual or seasonal pass this year, it will be valid for the next year as well? Great savings, in my opinion 🙂

Address: 9526 Lakeshore Road, RR#2, Grand Bend, Ontario

Travel time from London, ON : 50 minutes and 70 km

 – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – –

Want to go on a perfect week-long road trip to Quebec with your kids? Check out this detailed 7-11-day Gaspe Peninsula Road Trip Itinerary. You can download a free 35-page pdf guide here below:

Gaspesie Road Trip plan itinerary and travel guide - free ebook to download

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ALPACAS AND WATERFALLS

Here is another nature-filled and fun day trip suggestion – visit a nearby alpaca farm and then hike to a nearby waterfall.

Maybe you don’t know, but London, ON is lucky to have a unique attraction in its backyard – an alpaca farm. S.A.M.Y.’s Alpaca Farm located just outside Strathroy offers alpaca walks. Kids will love to lead a cute and fluffy alpaca on a leash and pose for your family album with them.

After the alpaca farm tour, you can head 15 min west and enjoy a walk in the nature in the Rock Glen Conservation Area. Rock Glen is a small nature oasis hiding a nice waterfall, some easy trails, playground, barbecues, and picnic tables. It’s a great place for a family picnic, in my opinion.

•   S.A.M.Y.’s Alpaca Farm : The farm is open in 2021 and all year-round , but visits are always by appointment. Wear outdoor clothes that can get dirty and protect you from the elements. Alpaca tour costs $30.00 per person, taxes are extra. Family pricing is available for $20/person (with minimum of 3 people) and children under 5 are free. Call for alpaca walk bookings: 226-678 2649

Address : 2432 Cuddy Dive, Kerwood, Ontario

• Rock Glen Conservation Area : Open year-round daily from 9 am to 8 pm, on weekends open from 8 am to 9 pm. Entry fee $4/person. Children 5 or younger are free. Download a Rock Glen map via this link .

Address:  8680 Rock Glen Road, Arkona, Ontario

Driving time from London, ON: 43 km and 38 min to alpaca farm + another 13 min and 15.3 km to Rock Glen Conservation Area

–> Related reading:  28 BEST HIKING TRAILS IN LONDON ONTARIO FOR FAMILIES

CAMBRIDGE BUTTERFLY CONSERVATORY

Cambridge Butterfly Conservatory

One of great family-friendly places to day trip in southwestern Ontario is the Butterfly Conservatory in Cambridge, ON. You’ll learn a lot about butterflies and moths. Besides insects, the conservatory is home to over 100 different types of tropical plants. Throughout the year, they offer various fun and educational events.

If you go: You must purchase timed tickets online in advance. The tickets are issued for a precise time slot so make sure you arrive on time. They are open from 10 am to 5 pm between Tuesday and Sunday. Mondays are closed. They are also closed during three Christmas days and the first day of the new year. The tickets cost $7.50 for kids 3-12, $17 for adults and teenagers, and $12.50 for seniors over 65. Taxes are extra. You can buy timed tickets on this page .

Address: 2500 Kossuth Road, Cambridge, Ontario

Travel time from London, ON : 1:05 hr and 106 km

TWIN VALLEY ZOO

Twin Valley ZOO is a private ZOO near Brantford and is home to over 80 different animal species such as bears, lions, tigers, deer, wolves, monkeys, and birds. Families with children will enjoy a baby goat petting area, picnic tables, and a playground.

If you go: The ZOO is open daily between June 14, 2021 and October 31, 2021 from 9 am to 5pm. Admission tickets cost  $20 for adults, $17 for seniors, $16.50 for teenagers, and $10.50 for kids 2-12. Toddlers and babies under 2 are free of charge. Taxes are included.

Address: 84 Langford Church Road, Brantford, Ontario

Travel time from London, ON : 1:03 hr and 104 km

— > Related reading: Best Coffee, Tea & Ice Cream Shops in London, Ontario

HISTORIC OIL FIELDS IN PETROLIA AND OIL SPRINGS

If you are looking for an interesting place to visit outside London Ontario, I suggest the Historic Oil Fields in Petrolia and Oil Springs. The area around the city of Sarnia is well-known for its oil industry. But did you know that it all started in Enniskillen Township between the villages of Oil Springs and Petrolia? In fact, in 1850, a geologist named Thomas Sterry Hunt discovered oil seeping from swampy gum beds and the area became the very first place where the oil industry started in North America. The boom ended over 100 years ago, but the fields around Oil Springs and Petrolia still produce small quantities of oil.

If you go: You can visit three unique and highly educational places documenting the early history of oil extraction:

  • P etrolia Discovery is an open-air museum open on weekends between May and October from 10 am to 4 pm. Admission is by donation. During summer season they offer tours on these dates: July 10, 2021, August 14, 2021, September 25, 2021 and October 9, 2021. All tours take place between 10 am and 3 pm.
  • Oil Museum of Canada: PLEASE NOTE: THIS ATTRACTION IS TEMPORARILY CLOSED FOR RENOVATIONS. Normally, it is open between 11 am and 4 pm on Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays as well as Thursdays between 11 am and 8:30 pm. Visitors must book their visit time slot by phone (519-834-2840) or online . The tickets cost $5/adult, $4 senior and students, $3 kids 4-12. Family tickets cost $15.
  • Fairbank Oil Fields can be visited in two ways. You can do a self-drive tour or go on a 2-km hike around the property. Download the hiking trail map here .
  • Petrolia Discovery , 4381 Discovery Line, Petrolia, Ontario
  • Oil Museum of Canada , 2423 Kelly Road, Oil Springs, Ontario
  • Fairbanks Oil Fields , 2558 Duryee Street, Oil Springs, Ontario

Travel time from London, ON : 60-70 minutes and approx. 110-120 km

Also read: BEST DAY TRIPS WITH TEENAGERS FROM LONDON, ONTARIO

NEARBY BEACHES

During hot summers, spending time near lakes is probably the most refreshing and fun leisure activity for the whole family. Check out the best beaches within one hour from London, ON. They are all rather busy in July and August, but still worth it because it’s all we’ve got without travelling too far from home.

Lake Huron beaches:

  • PORT FRANKS
  • CANATARA BEACH (Sarnia area)

Lake Erie beaches:

  • PORT STANLEY
  • PORT BURWELL
–> Related reading:   THINGS TO DO WITH KIDS IN LONDON ONTARIO DURING SUMMER

BEST DAY TRIPS WITHIN 2 HOURS FROM LONDON

All the destinations on this list involve 2.5 to 4 hours of total car seat time and are therefore easier for school-aged kids.

POINT PELEE NATIONAL PARK

Pint Pelee National Park

View from the observation deck above the March Boardwalk in Point Pelee National Park

A day trip to the Point Pelee National Park is simply a must-do. It’s the closest national park to London and it’s also special because it’s the southernmost place (together with the Pelee Island) in Canada. The park has tons of cycling and hiking trails, long beaches, picnic areas, and canoe routes.

If you come here more than once a year, you’ll notice the tip of the land changes its shape and position thanks to the lake currents. Make sure you walk the 1-km Marsh Boardwalk loop trail. Or rent a canoe and paddle around the ponds. Don’t forget your picnic basket, hiking shoes, canoe/kayak, or a bike.

The park is also a Monarch butterfly sanctuary. Come between late August and mid-October to see them migrate through the park.

If you go: Point Pelee NP is open daily from 6 am to 10 pm. If you live close, it’s convenient to buy an annual pass. Otherwise, the day passes cost $7.90 for adults, $6.90 for seniors, and $16 for a family arriving in one car. Kids and teenagers are free.

Address:   1118 Point Pelee Drive, Leamington, Ontario

Travel time from London, ON : 1:53 hr and 173 km

–> Also read:  HARVEST FESTIVAL AND POW WOW

The capital city of Ontario is another great destination for quick day trips from London. Toronto has too many amazing attractions and you can fit maybe two or three activities into one day. Below are some two-activities-a-day suggestions for one-day trips unless you want to stay overnight and make it a weekend outing.

If you have young children, I wouldn’t combine two educational attractions into one day. That could be too overwhelming for them. I suggest combining one educational and one fun activity.

Water tank in Ripley's Aquarium in Toronto

Ripley’s Aquarium in Toronto

• CN Tower + Ripley’s Aquarium

Conveniently located beside each other, CN Tower is fun to visit on a clear day when the visibility is the best. Count approx. 2      hours for the tallest tower in Canada and another 3 or 4 hours for the neighbouring Ripley’s Aquarium. Kids will love the huge tanks with sharks and small ones with sea horses. Absolutely fascinating is the jellyfish tank. One could sit there for hours and watch them graciously dance in the changing light.

• Hockey Hall of Fame + CN Tower

Little ice hockey enthusiasts will certainly enjoy a visit to the Hockey Hall of Fame where they’ll learn about all the top players. From there it’s only a short walk to the CN tower.

Castle-like Casa Loma Mansion in Toronto, Canada

Casa Loma Mansion in Toronto

• ROM + Casa Loma

With over 6 million artefacts in its natural history, art, and culture collections, the Royal Ontario Museum is sure to be a hit with all visitors. The promise of seeing mysterious Egyptian mummies and towering skeletons of prehistoric dinosaurs will easily get your kids to agree on going on an educational museum trip.

The young prince and princess wannabes would sure like to visit Casa Loma. Its Gothic Revival architecture is as close to real castles as you can get in North America. Visiting the mansion and the manicured gardens is fun. No transatlantic flight tickets necessary.

–> You might also like: 18 SANITY-SAVING TIPS FOR VISITING MUSEUMS, CASTLES AND LANDMARKS WITH KIDS

Toronto skyline from the Toronto Islands

The best view of Toronto is from Toronto Islands

• Ripley’s Aquarium + Toronto Islands

Aquariums are always a great destination for family day trips. They are educative and fun to visit.

After the aquarium, take a walk to the Jack Layton Ferry Terminal at Bay Street and Queens Quay. Take a ferry to the largest urban car-free community in North America – the Toronto Islands. Not only you’ll have the best view of the Toronto skyline, but there are lots of things to do. Bring your picnic and beach bag, because there are several lovely beaches and splash pads to enjoy. You can rent a boat and paddle around the canals. Besides other attractions, Centre Island has an amusement park, a petting farm, and a cedar hedge maze. Also, you can walk or bike from one end at the Hanlan’s Point to the other on Ward’s Island which is around 5 km.

• Ontario Science Centre +  Toronto Islands

Ontario Science Centre is a fun, educative museum and it’ll be hard to make the kids leave. You’ll probably have to drag them out ? You could make it a whole-day trip just to visit this science museum. The same can be said about the Toronto Islands.

• Toronto ZOO

The largest ZOO in Canada is a whole-day family expedition destination. Arrive early as the parking lot fills out fast. Also, the ZOO is so large, with young kids you won’t manage to see it all. I suggest you choose the zones that interests you the most and then with extra time, tour the rest. Also, if you are on a healthy diet, bring your own food and drinks because what they offer is just fast food. Don’t forget a set of extra clothes so they can enjoy the splash pad.

Toronto ZOO

Feeding girafes at Toronto ZOO

If attractions are open, you must purchase timed tickets before you head out because most places don’t sell them on-site. Buy your tickets online via the links below. These days, attraction tickets are cancellable so you can cancel or reschedule your visit without fees.

There are so many fun things to do in Toronto that one day might not be enough for you. Make it a weekend trip and stay overnight. Check out the best prices on Toronto hotels .

Travel time from London, ON to downtown Toronto : 1:54 hr and 190 km

• Ripley’s Aquarium : Located at 288 Bremner Boulevard in Toronto and open daily from 10 am to 8 pm. Buy tickets HERE .

• CN Tower : Located at 290 Bremner Boulevard in Toronto and open daily between 10 am and 10 pm. Buy timed tickets HERE .     

• ROM: Located at 100 Queen’s Park in Toronto and open between Wednesday and Sunday from 10 am to 5:30 pm. Buy timed tickets HERE .

• Casa Loma: Located at 1 Austin Terrace in Toronto and open between Tuesdays and Sundays between 9.30 am and 5 pm. Buy tickets HERE .

•  Hockey Hall of Fame: Located at Brookfield Place, 30 Yonge Street in Toronto and open from Tuesday to Sunday between 10:30 am to 3:30 pm. Buy tickets HERE .

•  Ontario Science Museum: Located at 770 Don Mills Road in North York. The museum is temporarily closed so check their website for the latest updates . When they open, timed tickets will be sold online.    

•  Toronto ZOO: OPEN IN 2021. Located in 2000 Meadowvale Road in Toronto, closer to Pickering, they open at various times: Monday noon to 4:30 pm, Tuesday – Friday 9 am to 4:30 pm and on weekends 9:00 am to 6:00 pm.  Buy your timed tickets HERE .

• Toronto Islands:  You can reach the island by ferry from Jack Layton Ferry Terminal and take the 13-min ride to Ward Island. Then you walk around to places that interest you. The ferry ticket includes the return fare: $8.19 for adults, $5.37 for seniors and teenagers 15-19, and $3.95 for children 2-14. Infants are free. The ferry runs at regular intervals from early morning to almost midnight. You can buy the ferry tickets HERE but be aware they must be used on the day they are issued for and there are no refunds. Check out the ferry schedule on this link .

AFRICAN LION SAFARI

If you cannot go on Safari to Africa, you can enjoy the African animals close to home. From June to mid-October, the drive-through game reserve is home to many exotic animals such as lions, cheetahs, rhinos, giraffes, ostriches, antelopes, baboons, kangaroos, wildebeests, and zebras. The safari also keeps animals from the Americas as well as from Australasia.

After driving through the reserve, park your car and enjoy the ZOO area with more animal enclosures, aviaries, picnic areas, and entertainment. They offer a parrot show, birds of prey and elephant demonstrations. Children will enjoy a large splash park, petting zoo, and climbing structures.

  If you go: Open daily between June and mid-October from 10 am to 4 pm. Admission tickets cost $27.95 for adults and teenagers. Children between 3 and 12 years of age pay $17.95 each. Those under 3 are free. Taxes are extra. Please note you must purchase timed tickets in advance, and you can do so on this link . Don’t go there without a ticket because they won’t sell it to you on-site.

Address: 1386 Cooper Road, Hamilton, Ontario

Travel time from London, ON : 1:16 hr and 112 km

NIAGARA FALLS

As a family, we love Niagara Falls. We go there several times a year for day trips with children and every time we are there, we discover something new. On each trip to Niagara Falls, it’s fun to check out the Horseshoe Falls and walk the promenade along the river. Then it’s time to add another activity such as a cruise on the Hornblower catamaran or descend and see how it looks behind the falls . For the amazing views, the Skylon Tower observation deck is unbeatable. There is the ‘crazy fun area’ on Clifton Hill , but more natural beauty can be found along the river beyond the Rainbow Bridge.

Stunning views of the Niagara River Rapids along the White Water Walk or perfect hiking in Niagara Glen. I highly recommend a summer visit to the Botanical Gardens and the Butterfly Conservatory . We still have several Niagara Falls bucket list items left: a helicopter flight above the falls, the Whirlpool Aero Car ride, Niagara Falls Imax Theatre , Whirlpool jet boat ride, Zipline to the Falls , Whirlpool Adventure Course and the Niagara SkyWheel.

Plus, Canadian Niagara Falls have a brand new attraction – Niagara Falls Power Station.  This is a fascinating new addition to a wide variety of fun things to do in Niagara Falls. When you visit this technical attraction, you’ll learn how the power of the falls is harnessed to make electricity.  The doors open in early September 2021. We cannot wait to see it.

Niagara Falls in Ontario

Journey behind the Falls

This year, tickets purchased online in advance are a must. Many tickets are timed and you have to arrive for your time slot. Buy your tickets online via the links below. Furthermore, make sure you check social media of all attractions for any last-minute changes and news. If one day is not enough and you would like to stay overnight, check out the latest accommodation prices .

T ravel time from London, ON : 1:56 hr and 201 km

• Hornblower Boat Cruise : Located at 5920 Niagara Parkway, Niagara Falls, Ontario and operates seasonally when the river is free of ice. The regular admission is $30.50 for adults and $20.50 for children 3-12, funicular ride included but tax will be added at checkout. Buy timed tickets HERE .

• Journey Behind the Falls: OPEN IN 2021. Located at 6650 Niagara Parkway, Niagara Falls, Ontario. They are open daily from 10 am to 8 pm.   Buy tickets HERE.

• Niagara River Jet Boat Tour: Located at 55 River Frontage Road, Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ontario and operates seasonally.  Buy your boat tickets HERE .

•  Niagara SkyWheel: OPEN IN 2021. Located at 4960 Clifton Hill, Niagara Falls, Ontario, on top of the Clifton Hill. The unmissable attraction operates all year long from 10 am to 2 am. The tickets cost $14 for everybody above 13 and $7 for children under 12. Tax  is extra. Buy timed tickets HERE .

• Skylon Tower Observation Deck: Located at 5200 Robinson St., Niagara Falls, Ontario and operates all year round. The tickets cost $16.24 for everybody above 13 and $10.44 for children 4-12, kids under 4 are free. Taxes are extra. The access to the observation deck is free if you eat at the restaurant. Buy tickets HERE .

• Butterfly Conservatory: Located at 2565 Niagara Parkway and operates year-round.  Normal opening times are between 10 am and 5 pm. Buy tickets HERE .

• Niagara Falls Imax Theatre : Located at 6170 Fallsview Boulevard, Niagara Falls, Ontario.  Buy your tickets HERE .

• Whirlpool Adventure Course : OPEN IN 2021. Please note, kids must be over 114 cm (3’9″) tall. Adults must have a minimum of 142 cm (4’8″). Located at 3500 Niagara Parkway, Niagara Falls, Ontario. During summer, they are open 9 am to 9 pm.   Buy your tickets HERE .

•  Zipline to the Falls : OPEN IN 2021. Located at 5920 Niagara Parkway, Niagara Falls, Ontario. During summer, they are open daily from 8 am to 10 pm.  Buy your tickets HERE .

• Whirlpool Aero Car: OPEN IN 2021. Located at 3850 Niagara Parkway and operates seasonally between April and November. Normal opening times are between 10 am and 5 pm or 6 pm on weekends. Buy tickets HERE .

• White Water Walk: Located at 4330 River Rd, Niagara Falls, Ontario and is open seasonally between April and November. Normal opening times are between 10 am and 5 pm or 6 pm on weekends. Buy tickets HERE .

•  FREE ACTIVITIES : hiking in Niagara Glen and Botanical Garden

–> You might also like to read about:   HOW TO TRAIN YOUR KIDS TO BECOME HIKERS

Niagara Glen hiking trails along the Niagara River in Ontario, Canada

Hiking in Niagara Glen

FUN DAY TRIPS FROM LONDON, ONTARIO TO USA

If you have explored all of the above-mentioned destinations in southwestern Ontario, it’s time to venture out beyond the Canadian border. Several nearby interesting places are worth the visit. All of them are under 3 hours of driving one way, so if you plan ahead and set out early, you’ll have enough time to enjoy new places across the border.

NIAGARA FALLS, NY

Have you explored the Canadian side of Niagara Falls and now want to know how the falls look like from the other side? Great idea for a one-day trip with your family! The American side of Niagara Falls offers plenty of things to do for the whole day and once there, you’ll see how busy the Canadian side is. Bring your passport and cross the Niagara River over the Rainbow International Bridge. After crossing the border, follow the signs to the parking lot on the Goat Island. Hope you have comfy shoes on because you’ll walk a lot. Aim for the Terrapin Point which is the edge of the Horseshoe Falls on the American side.

I would then walk along the river and explore all the viewpoints and nice pathways that lead towards the Observation Tower.

If you go : Don’t forget your passport.

Travel time from London, ON : 2:10 hr and 200 km

FRANKENMUTH, MICHIGAN

The cute little town of Frankenmuth is a piece of Bavaria in Michigan. Bavarian architecture, pretzels, and sausages, lederhosen, and Octoberfest. A great destination for a fun family trip. From London, ON you need to drive west to Sarnia via Highway 402 and cross the bridge to Michigan. Follow directions for Flint and then Frankenmuth. It takes about 2:40 hr and 256 km.

Make sure you visit Bronner’s Christmas Wonderland store that covers the space of almost 2 soccer fields which make it the largest Christmas shop in the world. Also check out the Cheese Haus, the wooden bridge, go on a river cruise, and try out Bavarian specialties at the Bavarian Inn. Kids will enjoy hunting for 10 gnomes that are spread around the town – get your map at the visitors’ centre.

If you go : Plan your visit during the Octoberfest in mid-September for added fun. Frankenmuth’s Octoberfest is the first official Octoberfest outside Germany. Parking is free and plentiful in the whole town. If one day is not enough, plan to stay overnight. Check out the latest accommodation prices .

Travel time from London, ON : 2:40 hr and 256 km

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I hope this list of family-friendly day trip from London, Ontario inspired you to go out and explore further from home. Which one of these is your favourite? Don’t hesitate to drop me a line 🙂

–>  You might also like other family travel articles:

•  BEST WINTER ACTIVITIES FOR FAMILIES IN LONDON ONTARIO

•  CELEBRATING HALLOWEEN

• VIRTUAL TOUR OF LONDON ONTARIO

• VISITING GREENVIEW PARK & AVIARIES

•  FROZEN LAKE ERIE 

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Best Family Day Trips from London, Ontario

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BEST THINGS TO DO WITH KIDS IN LONDON, ONTARIO DURING SUMMER

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Slavka is a travel writer and blogger based in London, Ontario, Canada. She specializes in family, multi-generational and couple travel in Europe and America. With the main focus on Central Europe and Canada, you can find her exploring cities, castles, caves and mountains in those areas. You can communicate with her in five European languages and follow her travel adventures, videos and advice on www.on2continents.com.

THE BEST Day Trips from London

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Sensational Ontario Getaways for Solo Travelers

Janice Waugh

September 19, 2018 by Janice Waugh

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I'm proud of my province.

From major cities like Toronto and Ottawa to Ontario's small towns and the wonderful, wandering wilderness in between, there is no shortage of Ontario getaways to enjoy.

Over the past few years I've done dozens of solo weekend getaways in Ontario. Those trips have focused on cultural activities like theater, wine, and food.

This year, three other writers and I took more adventurous weekend trips in Ontario.

  • I took a cycling trip.
  • Grace went whitewater rafting and kayaking.
  • Bettine took a break from her usual backcountry camping and went glamping.
  • Our editor Tracey ventured the backroads of Ontario taking the longest route possible to Killarney and the shores of Georgian Bay.

Here's your inspiration from these trips, links to more Ontario getaways and tips on planning your weekender in Ontario.

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A Magical Canadian Solo Kayaking Adventure

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Adventures in Glamping: Georgian Bay, Ontario

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Whitewater Rafting on the Ottawa River

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Bike Ontario: Rail Trails Make it Easy

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A Solo Summer Road Trip to Killarney

On this trip to the famous Killarney Mountain Lodge on Georgian Bay, Tracey took the long way. She turned 4 1/2 hours of highway driving into 7 hours of backroad driving with beautiful scenery, light traffic, and less stress. On her weekend she took a boat tour of Georgian Bay, ate great local fare, and learned a few lessons. Read all about it.

More Ontario Getaways to Consider

If you’re in Southern Ontario, here are few solo weekend getaways which Tracey and I experienced and wrote about. They are just a few hours' drive out of town.

  • Road Trip Ontario: Views, Food and a Bit of Romance
  • The Oxford County Cheese Trail: A Photo Tour
  • Travel Tips for Haldimand County: Fresh Air and Fine Dining

weekend trips from london ontario

Planning Your Weekend Trip in Ontario

I have to introduce you to the Explore Ontario website. The site is organized so that you can plan your trip geographically or by the activity you're interested in. There's a trip planner section that has suggested itineraries as well as a a tool to create your own custom itinerary. They even have a live chat function to get to an Ontario travel counselor. So, if none of the itineraries above strike your fancy, there are many other ways to plan your Ontario getaway.

Thank you to Destination Ontario for sponsoring these trips. As always, Solo Traveler maintains full editorial control over all content on this site.

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The best weekend trips from London

We're having a heatwave and there's never been a better time to plan your next break from the city

Ellie Walker-Arnott

London's teeming with stuff to do, but its endless array of museums, parks and attractions can lose their allure for even the most imaginative city dweller. So when that wanderlust hits (and you don't fancy booking a flight to Porto) here's where to go for an easy weekend away, full of the UK's best  restaurants , museums, shops, stunning scenery and hotels.

When you want to get out of London without any faff, look no further than these gorgeous getaways – from cosy rural retreats to proper city breaks.

This article includes affiliate links. These links have no influence on our editorial content. For more information, click  here .

RECOMMENDED: Stay nearer to home with  17 dreamy day trips close to London , or check out the very best  walks near London.

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Great weekend getaways from London

Edinburgh

1.  Edinburgh

The Fringe in August is of course when the city comes into its own, but Edinburgh’s brimming with things to do and see during the other 11 months of the year. Climbing Arthur’s Seat is obligatory, as is trekking to Edinburgh Castle – then an evening picnic on the Meadows before hitting the dancefloor at small but legendary venue Sneaky Pete’s. Come bedtime, Rabble has gorgeous mid-century ‘rough-luxe’ rooms in the heart of the New Town, with a top-notch restaurant downstairs. While we’re on the subject of food: pop-up-turned-bricks-and-mortar-venture Ting Thai Caravan is well worth a visit to feast on street food to a soundtrack of, say, The Stooges. Still got itchy feet? Glasgow’s less than an hour away by train.

Get there  One hour and 20 minutes by plane; four hours 20 minutes by train from London King’s Cross; around eight hours by car.

The Yorkshire Dales

2.  The Yorkshire Dales

It’s probably the UK’s most famous national park, and for good reason – the Dales has staggering good looks and drama in spades. A weekend gives you plenty of time to roam the vast Bolton Abbey Estate near Skipton and be wowed by the Ribblehead viaduct and the natural amphitheatre of Malham Cove (see if you can spot the pair of resident falcons). The Dales are heaven if you live to stuff yourself silly – it’s well worth touring the Wensleydale Creamery, home of the famous cheese, and nosing around Theakston’s brewery. Speaking of pints, The Black Bull near Sedbergh is in a class of its own, with a fantastic, modern kitchen. It's also an inn, so you can kill two birds with one stone and rest your head here after enjoying their finest food and drink. 

Get there: two hours 15 minutes by train from London King’s Cross to Leeds; around three hours 30 minutes by car.

The Peak District

3.  The Peak District

The Lake District’s slightly gentler cousin has loads to recommend it: pretty market towns like Bakewell (home of the tart!), miles of undulating hills and stately Chatsworth, home to the Duke and Duchess of Devonshire. If the weather’s fine you could spend a whole weekend exploring the Peak District National Park on foot or on two wheels (bikes can be found at Blackwell Mill Cycle Hire), stopping off at the likes of the Devonshire Arms at Beeley for real ale and venison pie. After all that yomping about you’ll want a comfy spot to lay your head, and The Peacock at Rowsley, a historic country house near Bakewell, the plush four-poster beds will do the job nicely.

Get there two and a half hours by train from London St Pancras; around three hours by car.

Padstow

4.  Padstow

This pretty-as-a-picture port really is the cream of Cornish. It’s synonymous with everyone’s favourite seafood chef, Rick Stein – get to his fish-and-chip shop early to beat the queue. Or for a slightly less-trodden path, head to Prawn on the Lawn for the best shellfish you can stuff your mouth with. Mosey around the independent galleries and boutiques, before taking the Black Tor Ferry over the water to Rock for a pint at The Mariners, now co-run by chef Paul Ainsworth. Hire bikes and cycle the 18-mile Camel Trail to Bodmin, sign up for a lesson at Waves Surf School, or just take a kite for a spin on the beach. All that sea air means you’ll sleep like a log – book one of Georgian townhouse St Petroc’s cool, contemporary rooms, or a luxe tipi at Cornish Tipi Holidays if you have a car.

Get there  three hours 43 minutes by train from London Paddington to Bodmin Parkway, and a bus; around five hours 30 minutes by car. 

The Cotswolds

5.  The Cotswolds

Think of the English countryside and chances are you think of the Cotswolds: 750-odd ridiculously green and pleasant square miles straddling Gloucestershire, Oxfordshire, Somerset, Warwickshire, Wiltshire and Worcestershire. Each county has its own unique charm, but for a textbook weekend stick to Gloucestershire, land of Jilly Cooper, honey-coloured stone cottages and retired rock stars. Immerse yourself in nature: go leaf-peeping at Westonbirt Arboretum, take a clay pigeon-shooting lesson at the Cotswold Clay Club and coo over grazing cattle as you drive into Minchinhampton. Push the boat out with a stay at The Wild Rabbit in Kingham – a Pinterest board come to life – and don’t miss The Wheatsheaf Inn’s superlative Sunday roast.

Get there:  one hour 30 minutes by train from London Paddington to Moreton-in-Marsh; around two hours 30 minutes by car.

The Gower Peninsula

6.  The Gower Peninsula

It’s official: this south-westerly chunk of Wales is one of the UK’s best-looking spots (in 1956 it became the first area to be hailed as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty). It’s very close to Swansea but much of its coastline feels pleasingly remote – beaches like pebbly Pwll Du, for instance, are only accessible by foot. Explore ruined Pennard Castle and Three Cliffs Bay, and if the waves are beckoning you sign up for a lesson at Progress Surf School near Llangennith. For a meal to remember, The Beach House at Oxwich Bay has a Michelin star and stunning seafood, while Surfside Cafe on Caswell Bay has been hailed as one of Britain’s best beachfront eateries. Come bedtime, head for award-winning barn conversion Slade Barn, which has beautiful Scandi-style interiors and a surfing beach a five-minute walk away.

Get there four hours by car. 

Winchester

7.  Winchester

It’s always had the looks, but Winchester never used to have that much in the way of personality. Suddenly, though, this handsome cathedral city has become Hampshire’s coolest corner. The food’s fantastic, for starters: you can breakfast on cruffins at Hoxton Bakehouse, settle in for craft brews and tacos at Overdraft, then tuck into a chilli beef burrito pie while flipping through a vintage comic at Piecaramba. Winchester’s the perfect base to explore the rest of Hampshire from, too: nose around Jane Austen’s house in Chawton and join a tour at Hambledon, the UK’s oldest vineyard. Accommodation-wise, you’ll get the VIP treatment at Hotel du Vin – or try gorgeous boutique B&B Hannah’s.

Get there  one hour by train from London Waterloo; one hour 45 minutes by car.

Bristol

8.  Bristol

The West Country’s undisputed foodie capital, Bristol’s got it all. From cheesecake at Hart’s Bakery to modern British plates in a shipping container at Box-E, you could easily spend 48 hours here doing nothing but eating. And then there are the sourdough toasties with a side of Gallic charm at Bar Buvette and Poco’s internationally influenced tapas (don’t miss the merguez with buttered kale at brunch). Make time to visit the Clifton Suspension Bridge, the gorgeously restored lido and Stokes Croft’s street art – and don’t forget to sip some legendary Exhibition cider in The Coronation Tap (it’s so strong it only comes in halves). Bed down in former merchant’s house Number Thirty Eight, or at the utterly lush Bristol Harbour Hotel.

Get there  one hour and 38 minutes by train from London Paddington or if you’re watching your wallet National Express coaches run from Victoria for just £3.90 one way; around 2 hours 30 minutes by car. 

Oxford

9.  Oxford

Those dreamy spires are just the start of Oxford’s charms. As well as being an ancient university city with history in every brick, it’s a young, thriving cultural hub with plenty of great places to eat and drink (The Varsity Club's where it's at if you're after cool rooftop vibes). Tick off the Ashmolean and the Pitt Rivers Museum, then wander through Port Meadow and the University Parks, stopping off for burgers at The Rickety Press. Shop till you drop in the Covered Market, make like Inspector Morse with a pint of Wychwood Hobgoblin at The White Horse on Broad Street (one of the show’s filming locations), then turn in at boutique B&B The Glove House in Woodstock – or bunk up in the Artist Residence, a sweetly chic pub with rooms just outside the city.

Get there  one hour by train from London Paddington; one hour 30 minutes by car. 

North Norfolk

10.  North Norfolk

With its vast skies and meandering waterways, North Norfolk has an eerie beauty all of its own. Start off with a visit to see the seals at Blakeney Point (the pups arrive in the winter), then head to Cromer, where you can tuck into the famous crab at The Jetty, stroll down the pier and stock up on local preserves at the farm shop. Make time to chuff along the North Norfolk Railway from Sheringham to Holt, and see if you can book a tour of Voewood House, an arts-and-crafts masterpiece. After all that fresh air, bed down at The Chequers Inn in Thornham, a gastropub with luxe rooms in a building that dates back to 1499. Or for a splurge, head inland to The Gunton Arms, a plush inn set in a deer park with a magnificently meaty menu.

Get there: three hours 30 minutes by train from London Liverpool Street to Cromer, with changes; around three hours by car.

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Places to visit about 2 hours from London, Canada

Bruce Trail

Niagara Escarpment

Cheltenham Badlands

Toronto Premium Outlets

Mississauga

Organized Crime Winery

Lincoln (Ontario)

Geneva (Ohio)

Harpersfield

Mount Clemens

Sterling Heights

Brown City (Michigan)

Cities 2 hours from London, Canada

2 hours :   Clinton Township, MI

2 hours :   Bolton, Canada

2 hours :   Peck, MI

1 hr 57 min :   Pointe aux Chenes, MI

1 hr 57 min :   Leamington, Canada

1 hr 57 min :   Vaughan, Canada

1 hr 57 min :   Saint Catharines, Canada

1 hr 55 min :   Algonac, MI

1 hr 54 min :   Lottivue, MI

1 hr 53 min :   Almont, MI

1 hr 52 min :   Etobicoke, Canada

1 hr 52 min :   Harrison Township, MI

1 hr 51 min :   Anchor Bay Harbor, MI

1 hr 51 min :   Anchor Bay Gardens, MI

1 hr 50 min :   Anchor Bay Shores, MI

These are approximate driving times in a radius from London, Ontario. Search for vacation spots within driving distance for a day trip or weekend getaway. There are many towns within the total area, so if you're looking for closer places, try a smaller radius like 1½ hours . If you're willing to drive farther, try 2½ hours .

Not sure where to go? Take a day trip from London , or if you have more time you can explore weekend trips from London , but make sure you also check road conditions around London . Looking for small towns or communities around London, Ontario? Get a full list of up to 500 cities nearby London .

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RV campgrounds 2 hours from London, Canada

Saugeen Springs RV Park

Amazing Rocky Park Campground

Durham Conservation Area

Chippawa Creek Conservation Area

Rock Point Provincial Park

Presque Isle Downs Casino

West Haven at Lake Erie RV Park and Family Campground

KOA Campground Mckean

Follys End Campground

Kenisee Lake Thousand Trails

Kenisees Grand River Camp and Canoe

Wheatley Provincial Park

Lakeside Village Motel and Campground

Holiday Harbour Resort - MHP

Wagener County Park

More cities around 2 hours away by plane

Here are more cities based on a flight circle radius of 2 hours. These cities are much further than the ones above since now we're looking at a 2 hour flight.

2 hr 1 min :   Columbus, MS

2 hr 3 min :   Gardner, KS

2 hr 1 min :   Council Bluffs, IA

2 hr 1 min :   West Point, MS

2 hours :   Auburn, AL

2 hr 1 min :   Tuscaloosa, AL

1 hr 59 min :   Vidalia, GA

2 hr 1 min :   Northport, AL

1 hr 56 min :   Rimouski, Canada

1 hr 59 min :   Hilton Head Island, SC

2 hours :   Opelika, AL

2 hr 2 min :   Olathe, KS

1 hr 58 min :   Marshall, MN

1 hr 57 min :   Alexandria, MN

2 hr 1 min :   Atchison, KS

Cities at a radius of

Travel time from London, Canada

cities within 1 hour of London, Canada 1½ hours from London, Canada places within 2 hours of me in London, Canada explore 2½ hours from London, Canada 3 hr radius map from London, Canada 3½ hr drive from London, Canada places within 4 hours of me in London, Canada within 4½ hours of me in London, Canada 5 hour drive from me in London, Canada 5½ hour drive from London, Canada within 6 hours of London, Canada 7 hour drive from London, Canada driving 8 hours from London, Canada 9 hours from London, Canada

Distance from London, Canada

cities within 10 km of me in London, Canada within 20 km of me in London, Canada 30 km radius of London, Canada 40 km drive from London, Canada located 50 km from London, Canada 100 km radius from London, Canada within 150 km of London, Canada 200 km road trip from London, Canada distance of 250 km from London, Canada driving 300 km from London, Canada 350 km trip starting from London, Canada 400 km drive from London, Canada drive for 450 km from London, Canada 500 km from London, Canada day trips from London, Canada

London, Ontario is located at latitude/longitude coordinates 42° 59' 5" N  /  81° 14' 43" W

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  2. Best of London, Ontario

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  3. 12 Top-Rated Things to Do in London, Ontario

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  4. Visita London: scopri il meglio di London, Ontario, nel 2022

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  3. ROAD TRIPS 03, Driving Through Ontario Province, Canada 🇨🇦, #013

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  5. Road trips

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COMMENTS

  1. 35 Best Day Trips from London, Ontario 2023 (We're Locals!)

    Best Day Trips & Places to Visit Near London, Ontario. London is perfectly nestled between many of the best things to do in Southwestern Ontario. The area surrounding London is full of beautiful nature spots, historic sites, tourist attractions, and downright fun places to visit. Check out our top picks. 1. Guess Where Trips. Distance from ...

  2. 13 Best Day Trips From London (Ontario) Canada

    The Twin Valley Nature Park in Brantford makes for one of the best day trips from London, Ontario, for families with small children. Home to over 400 animals from across 80 different animal and bird species, the park is one of the region's best zoos, featuring both local Canadian wildlife and exotic species. 12. Bruce Peninsula.

  3. Great Ideas for Weekend Getaways in Ontario (+ Mini Itineraries)

    Grand Bend Beach. Located close to Pinery Provincial Park, Grand Bend Beach is a very popular stop for weekend getaways in southwestern Ontario. There are lots to do in the area activity-wise in both the summer and the winter season. You can stay close by to the beach at a resort or campground like the Oakwood Resort.

  4. 29 Amazing Weekend Getaways in Ontario, Canada

    2. Niagara Falls. Niagara Falls is Canada's most famous attraction and is a must visit in Ontario, featuring the largest waterfall in the world by volume. The town has everything you need for the perfect long weekend getaway in Ontario, from tourist attractions, restaurants, spas, and luxury hotels.

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  6. 30 Exciting Weekend Getaways in Ontario: Your Top ...

    Planning weekend getaways in Ontario is a great way to see all the beauty of our province bit by bit. We've put together a list of 30 different ideas for weekend getaways in the province. We've organized the list by region, but make sure you check out all the ideas to help plan the perfect weekend for you to hit the road and savour Ontario.

  7. Weekend Ontario Road Trips You Can't Miss

    6- Bruce Peninsula. If you're seeking pristine waters, epic hike trails, scuba diving, island exploring, cruising, and the best of Ontario camping, a drive to Tobermory is one of the best road trips in Ontario. The experience starts as you take Highway 6 and has you passing through towns such as Fergus, Chatsworth, Owen Sound, and Wiarton ...

  8. A Perfect Weekend to Tobermory and Bruce Peninsula National Park

    Getting away from the big city. How to get to Tobermory from Toronto. Photo Essay of What A Weekend in Tobermory Looks Like. Day 1 - Flowerpot Island. Day 2 - The Grotto And Bruce Peninsula National Park. Tobermory Trip Costs. Tips & Tricks. Places to stay near Tobermory. CLOSE TO TOWN.

  9. Best Weekend Getaways Ontario Has To Offer

    Burlington, Oakville, Milton (Halton Region) The Pearl Hotel & Spa. Resorts for Weekend Getaway in Ontario. Langdon Hall Country House Hotel. JW Marriott The Rosseau Muskoka Resort and Spa. Great Wolf Lodge, Niagara Falls. Severn Lodge, Port Severn. Somewhere Inn Calabogie. Pillar and Post Inn Spa.

  10. Ontario Weekend Getaways

    July 8, 2021. The Muskoka Lakeland region in southern Ontario is a Canadian paradise filled with enchanting natural beauty. Whether you're exploring fishing spots in Huntsville, boating in Muskoka Lakes, or hiking in Georgian Bay, Muskoka is the ideal getaway destination for those looking to reconnect with nature.

  11. 25 of the Best Nature Attractions and Hiking Trails in London

    Meadowlily Woods. The Meadowlily Woods is a classic forest destination, with mature woodlands, deep ravines, and agricultural fields. 4.6 kilometres of trails exist in the woods, and people mainly visit the place for wildlife watching and exploration. Details. Location: 65 Meadowlily Rd S #35, London.

  12. Itineraries and road trips

    From Paris to London, Copenhagen, Vienna and Brussels, visit Ontario's European-inspired towns. Read more 4-day Ontario road trip: ... Looking for Ontario travel advice? Our experts are here to help you plan your perfect trip. Call or book today. 1-800-668-2746. Book a virtual appointment.

  13. Best Family Day Trips From London, Ontario

    Family pricing is available for $20/person (with minimum of 3 people) and children under 5 are free. Call for alpaca walk bookings: 226-678 2649. Address: 2432 Cuddy Dive, Kerwood, Ontario. • Rock Glen Conservation Area: Open year-round daily from 9 am to 8 pm, on weekends open from 8 am to 9 pm. Entry fee $4/person.

  14. Fun Bus Tours & Weekend Getaways

    ShortTrips.ca specializes in bus tours and quick weekend getaways from Toronto. Take a tour with us and see what all the hype is about. Short Trips...Lifelong Memories! ... Mississauga, Kitchener, London. More Info. Sat Aug 24. S.S. Keewatin "Titanic-Era" Steamship Tour. Day Trip to beautiful Kingston. ... Ontario Motorcoach Association.

  15. THE BEST Day Trips from London (UPDATED 2024)

    London is a great travel destination with a lot to do and see, but sometimes you need to get away and explore the surrounding areas. Book the best day trips from London, Ontario directly on Tripadvisor and take the stress out of planning. Read 66,086 traveller reviews and view photos of different trips from London to various destinations. Find day trips to take today or this coming weekend.

  16. Ontario Getaways for Solo Travelers

    A Magical Canadian Solo Kayaking Adventure. Adventures in Glamping: Georgian Bay, Ontario. Whitewater Rafting on the Ottawa River. Bike Ontario: Rail Trails Make it Easy. A Solo Summer Road Trip to Killarney. More Ontario Getaways to Consider. Planning Your Weekend Trip in Ontario.

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    Weekend Trips From London-Ontario. Dayton Ohio. Zip and Soar: 15 Things to Do in Dayton. Aviation pioneers took flight, the arts and culture scene soars, and the sense of community makes you feel right at home! ... This can be a single place (e.g. London, UK) or something more creative (e.g. a road trip from Seattle to Portland, the Scottish ...

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    Dreamy day trips from London. 1. St Leonards-on-Sea. Famed for how many Londoners moved here during lockdown (it's even been referred to as Dalston-on-Sea, which is cringe, we'll admit), St ...

  19. Hotel Getaway Package Offers in London, Ontario

    You deserve a Break at TownePlace Suites By Marriott London. 800 Exeter Road. 1. Plan your getaway to London, ON with exclusive offers from Tourism London's hotel partners. From culinary, romance, spa, shopping, family fun packages & more.

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    Our office is open from 9:00am -5:00pm, Monday to Friday, and we can be reached during that time by phone at 1-800-461-8687, or email us anytime. One Day Getaways. Multi-Day Getaways. Custom Group Tours. Motorcoach Rentals.

  21. 17 Amazing Weekend Trips From London

    Get there two and a half hours by train from London St Pancras; around three hours by car. See local Airbnbs. 4. Padstow. This pretty-as-a-picture port really is the cream of Cornish. It's ...

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