places to visit outside gta

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

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

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

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

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

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

Popular Toronto Day Tours

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

Table of Contents

Niagara Falls

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Toronto to Niagara Falls By Car

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

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

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

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

Toronto to Niagara Falls By Train

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

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

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

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

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

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

Toronto to Niagara Falls By Bus

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

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

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

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

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

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

Toronto to Niagara Falls Tour

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

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

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

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

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

Niagara-on-the-Lake

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Toronto to Niagara-on-the-Lake By Car

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

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

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

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

Toronto to Niagara-on-the-Lake By Train

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

Toronto to Niagara-on-the-Lake By Bus

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

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

Toronto to Niagara-on-the-Lake Tour

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

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

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

Toronto Islands

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Toronto to Toronto Islands By Car

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

Toronto to Toronto Islands By Ferry/Water Taxi

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Location for Mill Street W Intersection

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

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

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

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

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

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

Read More: Check Out Great Inns in Ontario !

Toronto to Elora By Car

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

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

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

Toronto to Elora by Transit/Shuttle

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

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

Hamilton Area Waterfalls

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

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

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

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

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

Read More: Our Guide to Exploring Hamilton Waterfalls

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

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

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

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

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

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

Toronto to Hamilton Waterfalls By Car

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

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

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

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

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

Toronto to Hamilton By Train/Bus

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Toronto to Caledon By Car

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

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

Toronto to Caledon By Bus

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

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

Collingwood + Blue Mountain

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Toronto to Collingwood By Car

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

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

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

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

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

Toronto to Collingwood By Bus/Shuttle

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

Wasaga Beach

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

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

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

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

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

Toronto to Wasaga Beach By Car

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

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

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

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

Prince Edward County

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Toronto to Prince Edward County By Car

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

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

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

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

Toronto to Prince Edward County By Train

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

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

Barrie + Oro-Medonte

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Toronto to Barrie By Car

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

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

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

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

Toronto to Barrie By Train

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

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

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

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

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

Toronto to Barrie By Bus

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

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

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

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

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

Gravenhurst + The Muskokas

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Toronto to Gravenhurst By Car

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

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

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

Toronto to Gravenhurst By Bus

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Toronto to Guelph By Car

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

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

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

Toronto to Guelph By Train

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

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

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

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

Toronto to Guelph By Bus

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

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

Grand River + Cambridge

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Toronto to Cambridge By Car

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

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

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

Toronto to Cambridge By Bus

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

Kawartha Lakes

Maps Location for Lindsay

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

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

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

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

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

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

Toronto to Kawartha Lakes By Car

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

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

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

Milton Conservation Areas

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Toronto to Milton By Car

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

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

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

Toronto to Milton By Train/Bus

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

Cobourg Beach + Cobourg

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

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

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

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

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

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

Toronto to Cobourg By Car

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

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

Toronto to Cobourg By Train

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

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

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

Buffalo, USA

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

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

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

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

Toronto to Buffalo By Car

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

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

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

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

Toronto to Buffalo By Bus

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

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

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

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

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

Related Articles

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

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

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

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

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

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Eric Wychopen

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

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The Best Places to Be Outside in Toronto

Yes, toronto is a beach city..

Published on 8/28/2020 at 2:20 PM

When people talk about Canadian cities like Vancouver or Montreal, they inevitably wax poetic about their greenspaces. Not so much Toronto. In fact, it's a common refrain that Canada’s largest metropolis doesn't have much nature at all. Heck, I even used to say it myself. But then I moved to the big city. Turns out, Torontonians know how to keep a secret -- especially when it comes to the city's incredible outdoors scene. 

While tourists are held up in line at the CN Tower or getting bounced around in the crowds ofDundas Square (pre-pandemic, of course), Torontonians are biking along hidden urban trails and partying on the beach. Here, there are ample urban parks and expansive wildernesses on the perimeters. Island adventures are a short ferry away. Turn the right corner, and you'd be forgiven for thinking you wandered over to the Mediterranean.  

So while it pains me to let the cat out of the proverbial bag, here are some of the best places to get oot  and enjoy nature in Toronto. In the words of Stratford, Ontario’s own: “Is it too late now to say sorry?”

MORE:  There are so, so many reasons to fall in love with Toronto right now

Toronto Islands

One of Toronto's biggest outdoor advantages is its positioning on Lake Ontario, meaning you can kick back on urban beaches like Sugar and HTO while the city hums right behind you. But that same inland sea also makes it exceedingly easy to leave the city without actually leaving it: Hop on a 13-minute ferry south from the Harbourfront and you’ll hit a set of 15 islands that are easily one of the best day trips from a downtown core anywhere. 

Toronto Island Park is an interconnected network of pathways and bridges that stretch five kilometers end-to-end -- perfect for a stroll or bike ride (solo, tandem, and four-seaters are available for rent). Centre Island is the hotspot, with an amusement park, William Meany Maze, restaurants, and two beaches; the popular Centre Island Beach and more peaceful Ward’s Island Beach. Hanlan’s Point, with its stone lighthouse built in 1808 is a tad more off the beaten path, but if you do stop here for a dip, keep in mind that the beach is clothes-optional.

MORE:   Ontario is full of beautiful places you've maybe never heard of

Even before Canada legalized cannabis and Toronto became one of the best places in the world to experience cannabis culture, High Park was a great place to hang out with a joint. About half the size of Central Park, the huge city park is great for a nature walk around the ponds or a dip in the outdoor pool on a hot day, and there’s even a zoo for those inclined. In springtime, High Park’s cherry blossoms are a major attraction -- so much so they were blocked off and live-streamed during the early days of the pandemic. In the wintertime, you can skate circles around High Park’s outdoor rink or join in a game of shinny on the ODR (Canada-speak for a game of outdoor ice hockey). 

MORE:    Take a deeper dive into Toronto's outstanding cannabis culture

Scarbrough Bluffs

Twelve-thousand years ago, a glacier retreated from what’s now Scarborough in the east end of Toronto, leaving clay cliffs and white sandy beaches that face turquoise water. The Bluffs are like nothing else in the greater Toronto area, giving off tremendous Mediterranean vibes. Aside from the beach, the Bluffs include terrific walking paths, just be careful of routes that are blocked off and be sure to stay away from the base of the cliffs as they’ve been known to collapse.

MORE:   Falling for Canada? These gorgeous places will seal the deal.

Allan Gardens

While not technically outdoors, the Allan Gardens Conservatory delivers a whiff of nature any time of year: even if it's 10 degrees below freezing. Founded in 1858, the 16,000-square-foot greenhouse inside Allan Gardens park is home to hundreds of plants from around the globe, including tropical orchids, palms, banana trees, and jade vine. There are benches where you can pass an afternoon with a book, or you can opt for a paid tour to learn more about flora you likely won’t find in the wild anywhere in Canada. Keep an eye out for the conservatory’s resident turtles while you're there.

Riverdale Park

On any given warm day in Toronto, hundreds of beautiful people lay out blankets for a picnic and a beer in view of the CN Tower at this east-side park (technically drinking in parks is illegal, but nobody seems to care as long as you’re discreet). Besides the big open space -- ideal for tossing around the frisbee, working out in its outdoor gym, or watching a game of cricket -- Riverdale Park is home to some quality shaded trails. If you follow the trail northbound, you’ll eventually get to Riverdale Farm , where you can hang out with chickens, piggies, and horsies.

The Don River and Evergreen Brick Works

Seven-thousand years ago, Indigenous groups settled around the Don River to catch wild salmon. A lot has changed since then (including Canada paying $145 million reparations to the Mississauga for stealing their land), but you can still see salmon jumping in the Don River while walking or biking along a nearly 10-kilometer trail beside the riverbanks. When you get to the Don River Valley Park, keep an eye out for temporary and permanent public art, including huge murals, gargoyles sculpted out of concrete blocks , and pop-up dance performances.

This is also the home of the former Don Valley Brick Works, which operated for over a century, supplying the bricks for some of Toronto’s most famous buildings. Now called the Evergreen Brick Works , the once- abandoned has been transformed into a place to promote sustainability. You can roam the quarry and wooded trails behind the compound, taste local fruit and veggies at its year-round markets, go for a skate at the rink in the water, and check out indoor and outdoor gardens meant to inspire city dwellers to grow their own produce at home.

Leslie Street Spit

Builders used to drop brick and rubble from old construction sites at the banks of Lake Ontario, forming an oddly-shaped landform that stretches five kilometers off the coast. The site is strangely known as The Spit, but don’t let the name or the fact that this park is technically a dump deter you. Aside from being one of the best places to see the skyline, the Spit is terrific for bird watching -- you can spot hundreds of species that stop for a rest before or after their journey over Lake Ontario to New York state.

The Beaches

Along with being a highly sought after neighborhood with a quaint village vibe, The Beaches is -- yup --  a set of beaches that Torontonians flock to on warm days. The neighborhood also known as The Beach has four stretches of sand where you’ll find handsome Torontonians tossing around frisbees, playing beach volleyball, and sunbathing with a bottle of wine or beer on their blanket next to them (again, drinking in parks is technically illegal, but no one seems to care). At the end of the beaches there’s an off-leash dog beach if you’ve got a pup that likes to flex. During summers not tarnished by a deadly pandemic, The Beaches plays host to a bunch of festivals including an international jazz fest in July. 

Rouge National Urban Park

The first park in Canada of its kind, Rouge National Urban Park is 79-square-kilometers of pure Canadian natural bliss, split between the Toronto suburb of Scarborough and neighboring cities Markham and Pickering. Rouge is home to 1,700 species of plants and animals, including snakes, river otters, coyotes, and deer. There's even a beach from which you can launch a canoe or take a kayak out for a rip. Since farms are allowed in the park, there are some tasty produce markets to try, too. Want to spend the night under the stars? Rouge also has the only official campground within Toronto city limits. 

MORE:   A decidedly not-urban national park awaits up north on the Bruce Peninsula

Trinity Bellwoods Park

If there is a place to see and be seen in Toronto, it’s the west side's Trinity Bellwoods. This extremely popular park gets packed during summer with barely any space between groups of picnic blankets (photos during the pandemic of young’uns close to one another caused a lot of angry fist shaking, but it didn’t prove to cause a further outbrea k). Trinity Bellwoods also has a quality dog park and often hosts food and art fairs. And in the spring, it's pops with color with the emergence of cherry blossoms, which contrast beautifully with the skyline in the distance.

Christie Pits Park

Christie Pits' baseball diamonds gained notoriety when Nazi sympathizers attacked a Jewish baseball team in 1933. But the park has risen above this historical stain to become a summer scene unto itself, one thrumming with life and embracing a local community vibe. The park has plenty of benches for a picnic and a craft beer (I think you get Toronto’s park vibe at this point), and if you can manage it, checking out a free movie in Christie Pits is a quintessential Toronto summer experience. And in the winter, it takes on a second life with its rink and toboggan hill.

MORE: But for real, here's how to move to Canada

Going Awesome Places

Detailed itineraries + travel guides

16 Popular and Secret Weekend Trips from Toronto

Last Updated January 10, 2024 William Tang

You are here: Home » Attractions & Experiences » 16 Popular and Secret Weekend Trips from Toronto

Whether you’re visiting the GTA or living in the city, there are surprisingly a lot of options when it comes to weekend trips from Toronto.  In this guide, you’ll find both popular and hidden secret Toronto getaways that can be done in the spring, summer, fall, or winter whether for a day or the full weekend.  With each trip, you’ll learn the details of what you can do there, where to eat, activities to book, and how to get there.

Simply put, Ontario is yours to discover and so let’s jump into those best weekend trips from Toronto.

Read more about Toronto

• Best patios in Toronto in the summer
• One day road trip itinerary around Toronto
• Provincial Parks to see Ontario Fall colours
• Best easy hike trails around the GTA
• Amazing parks in Vaughan you probably never knew about
• Curling clubs in Toronto that offer sheet rentals

Where to stay in Toronto?

• If you’re looking for a place to stay in Toronto , I highly recommend 1 King West for it’s location, historic suites, and price in comparison with the other big hotels in the city. Make sure you’re also familiar with hotel corporate codes in case you’re eligible!

Table of Contents

Jump straight to the weekend trip ideas from Toronto of interest.

In This Article

Hilton Falls

Dundas valley, grey sauble county falls, wasaga beach, blue mountain, niagara-on-the-lake, niagara falls, prince edward county, bruce peninsula and tobermory, kitchener-waterloo, kawartha lakes.

• Ferris Provincial Park
• Point Pelee National Park

Frequently asked questions

Best weekend trips from toronto.

Chasing Waterfalls

Let’s start off with one that is not so obvious.  We all know the BIG waterfalls that are easy to get to from Toronto but there are actually plenty of hidden waterfalls scattered all around Ontario that are only a couple of hours drive from Toronto.  There are a couple of regions of waterfalls that I first introduced in my day trip idea from Toronto so it’s worth breaking them down.

Right off the 401 and near the city of Milton is a conservation area that you might’ve passed by many times but never knew was there.  This is part of a Conservation Halton park with a great escape to nature and an athlete’s paradise with its 33.5 km of trail.

The Niagara Escarpment and flowing river is the perfect formula for a waterfall and what makes this unique is that remnants of old Mill Ruins can be seen right alongside the thunderous water.

Whether you’re hiking, trail running, mountain biking, or just walking the dog, the trails here are colour-coded and well-marked.  Other activities include bonfires for s’more making near the falls, horseback riding, geocaching, and tons of photography opportunities.

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW

Address: 4985 Campbellville Road, Milton, ON

Hours: Daily 8:30AM – 9:30PM

Time to drive: 41 minutes

Website: Hilton Falls

• Adult (15-64) $7.00
• Senior (65 & over) $6.00
• Child (5-14) $5.25
• Child (4 & under) Free

Highlights:  

• The Waterfalls
• The Mill Ruins
• Horseback Riding
• Recreation Trails
• Bonfire at the Falls

Nearby attractions:

• Rattlesnake Point Conservation
• Springridge Farm
• Halton County Radial Railway
• Terre Bleu Lavender Farm

Good restaurants nearby:  

• Memphis BBQ & Wicked Wings
• Goodfellas Wood Oven Pizza

Where to stay overnight:  

• Best Western Milton
• Home2 Suites Milton

READ THE REVIEWS

Carved out of glaciers some 10,000 years ago, Dundas Valley Conservation Area is one of Southern Ontario’s gems and natural treasures.  There is much to see and do here including a rich mix of plants, wildlife, geological formations, meadows, and streams.  The area features 1,200-hectares Carolinian forests, colourful meadows, cold-water streams, stunning geological formations and an array of rare plants, birds and wildlife.

The environment is so naturally rich here that it is actually designated by UNESCO as a World Biosphere Reserve since is part of the Niagara Escarpment.

Like Hilton Falls, this conservation area is extremely well maintained with its three main trail loops that are easy to navigate and explore.  Whether you’re here to walk your dog, mountain bike or just putting your legs to good use, it’s another great way to spend time away from the big city.

To start your trip, start with the Trail Centre which is housed in a replica of a Victoria train station.  Inside you’ll find food concession, brochures, maps, and interpretive displays.  You’ll be be able to orientate yourself here and it’s also the starting point for guided hikes and workshops.

The network of trail you’ll find here, one of which is the Heritage Trail that extends into the world famous Bruce Trail.  Along the way, you’ll encounter two other waterfalls – Canterbury and Sherman.  They may not be the thunderous kind but they evokes a certain a tranquil serenity as the water roll down jagged edges of rock.

Read next: We have a full guide of the best waterfalls of Hamilton that you should check out.

Address: 650 Governors Road, Dundas, ON, L9E 5E3

Hours: Daily sunrise to sundown

• Off Season Hours: September to June Weekdays:  Concession closed, building open for washrooms from 8:30AM to 3PM Weekends:  8:30 AM to 4 PM

Time to drive: 1 hour

Website:   Dundas Valley Conservation Area

• Vehicle $10
• Vehicle Senior (65 & over) $8
• Equestrians – per horse $15
• Bus (school groups) $175
• Bus (non-school groups) $275
• Note:  Photo permits are required for photo shoots
• Hermitage Ruins
• Griffin House
• Dundern Castle
• HMCS Haida National Historic Site
• Exotic Supercar Test Drive
• Hamilton Waterfalls & Bluffs Hiking Tour
• Hamilton Scavenger Hunt
• Spring Sushi
• Detour Cafe
• Homewood Suites Hamilton
• Sandman Hotel Hamilton

If you’re looking for a bit of a road trip adventure, this might be the weekend trip from Toronto you’re looking for.  In Grey Sauble County (or simply Grey County) there are a number of waterfalls you can encounter on your drive up north along Highway 10 towards Owen Sound.

These waterfalls are perfect for those looking for short hikes and impressively unique waterfalls.

The ones you want to see are:

• Eugenia Falls
• Hoggs Falls
• Inglis Falls
• Indian Falls

I won’t spoil too much for you so make sure to add this to your list of weekend getaways whether with a car or if you’re looking to build an itinerary with your RV rental in Ontario .

Address: 

• Eugenia Falls – County Road 13, Eugenia, ON N0C 1E0
• Hoggs Falls – Lower Valley Rd, Flesherton, ON N0C 1E0
• Inglis Falls – Georgian Bluffs, ON N4K 5N6
• Indian Falls – 318614, Grey Rd 1, Owen Sound, ON N4K 5N4

Time to drive: 2.5 hours to get to the farthest Indian Falls

Website: Grey Sauble Conservation

• Entrance is free however there is a parking fee of $6.00 per vehicle ($8.00 at Inglis on weekends – from May long weekend to Labour Day Weekend & Thanksgiving Weekend) using the Mack Meters method
• Snowshoeing
• Tom Thompson Art Gallery
• Grey Roots Museum & Archives
• Casero Kitchen Table
• Shorty’s Grill
• Kettles Back Home Cooking
• Quality Inn Owen Sound
• Travelodge by Wyndham Owen Sound

REVIEWS OF INDIAN FALLS

Collingwood

The cottage are region of Collingwood is a popular getaway destination for locals living in the GTA and beyond as it’s easy to drive to, has an abundance of things to do, places to eat, and most importantly, has a large beach that’s perfect for those hot summer days.

Wasaga Beach is a long and sandy beach that lies at the southern end of Ontario’s Georgian Bay.  It is in fact the longest freshwater beach in the world at 14km.  Come here for swimming, walking along its trails, suntanning, and its connection with nature.

Address: 11-22nd St. North, Wasaga Beach, L9Z 2V9

Hours: 24/7

Time to drive: 1 hour 40 minutes

Website: Wasaga Beach

Price: Beach is free but parking lots are paid

• Visitor centre
• Recreation trails
• Wasaga 500 Go Karts
• Nancy Island Historic Site
• Wasaga Beach Farmers Market
• Catch 22 Fresh Market Grill
• Grandma’s Beach Treats
• Pizza Dee’s
• Saga Resort
• Oasis by the Bay

The other most popular place to visit in Collingwood is Blue Mountain resort .  In the winter, the mountain transforms to the region’s tallest mountain for snow sports such as skiing and snowboarding.  In the summer, there are plenty of activities on the resort grounds and surrounding areas to take advantage of its location along the Niagara Escarpment.  The most notable adventure activity is Ridge Runner Mountain Coaster .

Address: 190 Gord Canning Dr, The Blue Mountains, ON L9Y 1C2

Time to drive: 2 hours

Website: Blue Mountain Resort

• Canopy tree top trekking
• Mountain coaster
• Golf course
• Scandinave Spa
• Side Launch Brewing Company
• Ridge Runner Mountain Coaster
• Georgian Hills Vineyards
• Plunge! Aquatic Center
• Scenic Caves Nature Adventures
• FireHall Pizza Co
• The Dam Pub Gastropub
• Blue Mountain Resort
• The Westin Trillium House Blue Mountain

The famed wine region of Ontario is one of the most magical places to visit and while staying here overnight is preferable, it’s certainly possible to have a memorable weekend day trip.  Matched with the beauty of the flower-lined streets, cute boutique shops, and historic towns are the endless number of world-famous vineyards, the Shaw Festival , and Fort George .

NOTL for short, the epitome of a perfect Saturday or Sunday itinerary includes renting a bicycle, riding out to a winery for a tasting, walking along the main street, having a fabulous dinner, and slurping on ice cream from Moo .  More trip ideas can be found in this 3 day Niagara Falls itinerary .

While you’re planning your trip here, make sure to check the Niagara-on-the-Lake calendar for events.

When you’re here, also make sure not to miss out on one of my favourite hiking trails in the region, Niagara Glen .  From here, you get an incredible view of the Niagara Gorge.  In the Fall, the colours are absolutely stunning here.

Another area adjacent to NOTL you need to include in your trip is Queenston Heights Park, Whirlpool Aero Car, and White Water Walk.  Many of these spots you can find in our Fall Colours in Niagara video .

Time to drive: 1.5 hours

Website: Niagara-on-the-Lake

• Historic town
• Shaw Festival
• Fine dining
• Parks Canada
• Recreational Trails
• Peller Estates
• Wayne Gretzky Estates
• Reif Estate Winery
• Konzelmann Estate Winery
• Jackson-Triggs Winery
• Fort George
• Wine-tasting Tour with Lunch or Dinner
• Cycle and Wine-Tasting Tour
• Half-Day Winery Tour
• The Olde Angel Inn
• Hob Nob Restaurant
• Prince of Wales Niagara on the Lake
• Queens Landing

GET STARTED HERE

Now this is the big elephant in the room right?  Niagara Falls is commonly referred to as the 8th Wonder of the World, or at least Canadians would love for it to be declared with that title.  What more can I say about the 168,000 cubic metres of water that thunders down the edge of the Niagara escarpment as a plume of cool mist emerges from Horseshoe Falls.  It’s truly a natural icon in Canada.

Without a doubt the Canadian side is the best side.  What makes the area a perfect weekend trip from Toronto is that there are so many ways to see and enjoy the Horseshoe, American, and Bridal Veil Falls.  You can see the Falls up-close from the Hornblower Cruise , in a cave as part of Journey Behind the Falls , or White Water Walk .  Just be prepared to get wet!

Beyond the falls themselves, there’s so much more entertainment to discover here whether it’s the zany Clifton Hills , the casinos, water parks, amusement park, gardens, and parks.

When planning your trip to Niagara Falls, consider the Wonder Pass to make your life easier with you and your family.  With advanced purchase, you get one-day access to Journey Behind the Falls, Niagara’s Fury, the Butterfly Conservatory, and Floral Showcase.  You’ll also get two-day access to WEGO and Falls Incline transit and discounts to local shops and eateries.

If you’re looking for something organized, there’s the small group half-day tour or Gems of Niagara if you’re already in Niagara Falls or the full day tour from Toronto if you don’t feel like driving.

While Niagara Falls isn’t far from Toronto, it is always a winner as a weekend getaway.  Make it better by staying at one of the hotels with tower views of the falls.

Website: Niagara Falls

• Horseshoe Falls
• Observation points
• Clifton Hills
• Behind the Falls
• Hornblower Cruise Voyage to the Falls boat tour (Maid of the Mist but on the Canadian side)
• Zipline to the Falls (or night time illuminated version )
• Whirlpool Jetboat Tours
• Niagara Falls helicopter tour
• Niagara Falls Skywheel
• Illuminations or Fireworks cruise
• Marineland day pass
• Hop-on-hop-off antique double decker bus
• Table Rock House Restaurant
• Blue Line Diner
• Napoli Ristorante and Pizzeria
• Paris Crepes Cafe
• Hilton Niagara Falls Fallsview
• Embassy Suites Niagara Falls Fallsview

On the north shore of Lake Ontario is a county characterized by a charming rural lifestyle with tasteful urban flavour.  Located only 2 hours away from the GTA, you come here for a weekend day to take advantage of the region’s sandy beaches and dunes, beautiful slice of nature, wineries, breweries, and a town of creative and passionate folks.

Prince Edward County is known as “The County” by the locals but may be more modernly called, simply PEC.  What started off as an expanse of agricultural land, the past few decades has been a renaissance of developing must-visit highlights for local and international visitors.  What makes it such a gem is that you wouldn’t know it from driving by along Highway 401 as most people travelling east would continue to Belleville and onwards to Kingston.

In PEC, you definitely want to start off visiting a few wineries.  The most popular ones TerraCello Winery , ThreeDog Winery , and Sandbanks Estate Winery which is known for their Baco Noir .

From there, make sure to hit up my favourite Parsons Brewing Company , which has a fun, contemporary vibe of fresh hop creations, and a fantastic selection of foods to pair with your flight of beers.  There’s a ton of sprawling open space here at the farm and great for kids as well.

Another main attraction in Prince Edward County is Sandbanks Provincial Park .  With the world’s largest baymouth barrier dune formation, you have three sandy beaches that are among the best in Canada with their shallow waters and gentle drop off.  The large sand dune hills are also awesome for some sliding fun.

In the towns of Picton and Wellington make sure to look out for great locally-made goods and farm-to-table restaurants that serve with locally-grown ingredients.

If you come here during the right time of the year, Prince Edward County Lavender is another highlight that you have to visit.  Better yet, plan to come during the Lavender Festival so make sure to check the PEC event calendar .

On your way out, don’t forget about the Glenora Ferry which is an alternative way to get to Kingston as opposed to hopping back onto the 401.

Lastly, if you’re a fan of The Drake Hotel in Toronto, their second property is here and is the Drake Devonishire .

Website: Prince Edward County

• Sandbanks Provincial Park
• Boutique shops
• Art workshops
• Small-town charm
• TerraCello Winery
• ThreeDog Winery
• Sandbanks Estate Winery
• Parsons Brewing Company
• Glenora Ferry
• Prince Edward County Lavender
• Agrarian Bistro Bar
• East & Main Bistro
• Blumen Garden Bistro
• Drake Devonshire
• The Village Suites

BOOK YOUR PEC ACTIVITY

Another jewel of Ontario is the entirety of the Bruce Peninsula.  Stretching between Georgian Bay up to Lake Huron, the turquoise clear waters, stunning coastal landscape, are something you just need to see in person.  It is in fact part of a UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve.

A weekend day trip getaway to the Bruce Peninsula might seem a little far but it’s totally do-able.  From Toronto, you take Hwy 10 and then Hwy 6 all the way up north until you reach the very end which happens to be the town of Tobermory.

Read next: We did an amazing weekend in Tobermory and Bruce Peninsula that will give you an idea of how to plan a trip up to here.

Tobermory is where your adventure starts.  It’s a charming town that’s packed with local artisan shops, fish & chip shacks, bars with patios, and live music.  This is also where you’ll find the harbor where you’ll be able to get on the thrilling Jet Boat Flowerpot Island Express by Blue Heron Cruises that takes you out to Flower Pot Island  and along the way see Big Tub Lighthouse, and two 19th century shipwrecks.

Flower Pot Island is a full day on its own.  There are several trails to follow here that follow a rugged terrain and takes you out to the the flower pot rock formations, picnic shelters on the shoreline next to Beachy Cove, areas to swim and snorkel, light station and lightkeeper’s cottage.

The other place you have to visit is part of Bruce Peninsula National Park .  The renowned trails are a must-do but since you’ll only have one day to see it all, focus your efforts on getting to the park’s famous Grotto.  This area is known for its pristine waters and shoreline sea cave where the adventurous ones will go in for a jump and swim.  Note that the parking day pass to the park is $11.70.  Since this is a national park, you’ll be able to use the Parks Canada Discovery Pass .

For those looking for a bus tour from Toronto, there’s this tour of Tobermory and Flower Pot Island in a day that you can consider.

Time to drive: 3.5 hours

Website: Bruce Peninsula National Park and Flower Pot Island

• Unique geological formations
• Maritime history
• Recreational trails
• Snorkelling and diving
• Flower Pot Island
• Bruce Peninsula National Park
• Bayside Astronomy
• Greig’s Caves
• Lions Head Provincial Nature Reserve
• Shipwreck Lee’s of Tobermory
• Tobermory Brewing Company and Grill
• Crowsnest Pub
• Grandview Motel Tobermory
• Adventure the Bruce Inn

BOOK TOBERMORY ACTIVITIES

Home to my alma mater, the Kitchener-Waterloo region doesn’t always get the recognition it deserves but there are a couple of hidden secrets here that only those in-the-know will tell you.

A quick day trip to the KW has a few key highlights that are quite unique.  The attractions you’ll find here mostly centre on the international communities that have grown here.

The first comes from the large Mennonite community that goes all the way back to the 1790s when they immigrated here from the US, settling on the vast area of farmland and continue to do so today.  While they are easily recognizable by their traditional black suits and broad-brimmed hats for men, and ankle-length dresses and matching bonnets for women, they aren’t to be confused with the Amish.

To best understand their history and faith, the Mennonite Central Committee has an interpretation centre in the village of St. Jacobs, just north of Waterloo.  It’s at St. Jacobs where you’ll find many Mennonite stores selling farm-cultivated produce and goods.  Of particular interest is their maple syrup which is stupendously good.  The Mennonites are well-known for their woodworking skills so anyone in need of hand-crafted furniture would do well to visit here.  The area has grown to encompass the St. Jacob Market District which now also includes a farmer’s market, market road antiques, and small outlet mall.

The second large community in Kitchener-Waterloo is the German community.  Every October, huge tents are set up downtown for Oktoberfest and is billed as Canada’s Greatest Bavarian Festival, and you’ll be surprised to hear that this is the second-largest Oktoberfest in the world.

If you can’t time your visit to come during Oktoberfest, the Heidelberg Restaurant Tavern & Motel is as authentic as it gets when it comes to a German-style restaurant.  Its signature dishes include Pork Hock which is a giant dish of smoked pork knuckles or Schweinshaxe in German.

In addition to these two distinct cultural experiences, Kitchener-Waterloo is a growing scene for craft beer.

Time to drive: 1 hour 10 minutes

Website: St. Jacob’s Market District and KW Oktoberfest

• Mennonite Village
• Authentic German food
• St. Jacob’s Market
• The Mennonite Story
• Block Three Brewing Co
• Descendants Beer and Beverage
• Kitchener Let’s Roam Treasure Hunt
• Heidelberg Restaurant Tavern & Motel
• Borealis Grille & Bar
• Bao Sandwich Bar
• Anna Mae’s Bakery and Restaurant
• Quality Inn Kitchener
• Kitchener Inn and Suites

This community of 9,500 may not be on the top of your list, but trust me, there’s more than meets the eye.

Located on the shores of Lake Scugog, Port Perry is seen as the gateway to a region known for its lake adventures but looking inwards, the city itself is rapidly growing whether it’s the historic Downtown Port Perry, or the parks that surround the lake.

In the summer, there are a number of festivals in Port Perry including the Mississauga First Nation PowWow , the Highland Games, the Dragon Boat Races, StreetFest, and the city’s own annual fair.  Downtown is becoming a small foodie paradise as well with its selection of bakeries, cafes, and restaurants.  On Queen Street, the main artery, you’ll marvel at Victorian-era architecture while shopping at unique boutique shops.

For those that are avid fishermen, the region offers something different for both winter and summer.  In the winter months, Lake Scugog freezes over and you’ll find many ice-fishing huts over the lake.  In the summer, you can easily take 1 of the 4 municipal ramps to take your boat out on the lake.

From Port Perry, you can also head out to the Great Blue Heron Casino where you’re guaranteed to have a great time whether you’re a high roller or you play the penny slots.  Make sure to try the Heron Burger here.

Time to drive: 55 minutes

Website: Discover Port Perry

• Lake recreation
• Historic downtown
• Scugog Shores Historical Museum
• Great Blue Heron Casino
• Ocala Winery
• Palmer Park
• Nature’s Bounty
• Old Flame Brewing Co.
• The Piano Inn and Cafe
• Pickles & Olives Bistro
• Heath Haven Bed & Breakfast
• Utica Guest House

There is a chain of lakes 90 minutes northeast of Toronto that create the most remarkable outdoor getaway.   With beautiful lakes, meandering rivers, rolling farmland, large park spaces to choose from, and well-preserved wilderness, there’s a panoramic beauty here that is why this is another popular weekend destination.  While the Kawarthas span several different counties including Peterborough, it’s the simplified marketing term for the area similar to Muskoka.

The Kawarthas are best known to be part of cottage country.  With many beautiful properties dotting the Trent-Severn Waterway , the overnight travellers will definitely be settling in one of these to relax on the dock, go fishing, or explore the local towns.

A different way to see the lakes is to actually be on the lake.  For fishing enthusiasts, taking a boat out is the obvious choice but there’s something else you can consider.  Did you know that the Kawartha Lakes is the Houseboat Capital of Ontario ?  Rent a houseboat with a company like R&R Houseboat Rentals for the day or more.  What makes the Kawarthas attractive is their tightly connected system of locks as you jump from one lake to the next.

Another fantastic option to consider are the wealth of provincial parks and conservation areas by the lake.  My particular favourite is Balsam Lake Provincial Park .  They have plenty of day-use space with the beach, easy hiking trails, canoeing, birding, and biking.  Overnights at the campsite are also a great way to spend the weekend here.  Otherwise there are the hotels you can see down below.

Lastly, on your way in or out, you must visit the Kawartha Dairy store in Lindsay as they have the best ice cream in Ontario.

Time to drive: 1 hour 36 minutes

Website: Kawartha Lakes

• Interconnected Lakes
• Lock system
• Small towns
• Best ice cream
• Camping and cottages
• Kawartha Settlers Village
• Horseless Carriage Museum
• Balsam Lake Provincial Park
• Ken Reid Conservation Area
• Lock 35 – Rosedale
• Kawartha Dairy
• The Cat & The Fiddle Lindsay
• Just for the Halibut
• Durham Cafe
• Ramada by Wyndham Lindsay
• Days Inn & Suites by Wyndham Lindsay

This is the heart of Ontario’s cottage country and where everyone flocks to in the summer for their cottage residences by the lake.  What makes it so popular is because of its proximity to Toronto and wealth of the quintessential Canadian outdoors – surrounded by 1,600 lakes, painters’ dream rocky landscape, rivers, beaches, rolling green countryside, it’s a lakeside retreat that everyone dreams about.

However, as much as it’s great for a week-long getaway, you can still enjoy the province’s premiere cottage country in a day.  You just need to know where to go.

Huntsville is considered to be the gateway into Muskoka and this is where you’ll start.   In this town there are several attractions to check out.  There’s the Group of Seven Outdoor Gallery which showcases 30 large-scale murals that have been reproduced and scattered throughout town.  These famous painters spent much of their time here and it really showcases the beauty of this region.

Right outside of town is Arrowhead Provincial Park .  It’s a great day-use camp with sandy beaches and a ton of incredible trails but where they really shine is in the winter with their 1.3 km outdoor ice trail and tubing hill.

From here, you’re right by the entrance into the famed Algonquin Provincial Park .  The park itself is massive so you’ll have to pick one or two spots to visit near the West Gate.  Oxtongue River Picnic Grounds is a great place for a packed lunch or you can head straight for a hike.  I recommend Two Rivers Trail (easy) or Whiskey Rapids Trail (moderate)

South of Huntsville and great on your way back home is Sugarbush Hill Maple Farm which is a great opportunity to learn, taste, and purchase that Canadian liquid gold.

Anyone who’s interested in beer and wine will do well to visit Muskoka Brewery and Johnston’s Cranberry Marsh & Muskoka Lakes Winery .

If you’re interested in seeing Algonquin more thoroughly as a day trip, there are Algonquin Provincial Park day tours from Toronto or if you’re interested in multi-day tours, these activities can get you started.

Lastly, the SS Bagwin Lake of Bays cruise is quite the remarkable trip that includes a 2.5 hour trip from Dorset to Port Cunnington Lodge where you’ll have a 3 course dinner before returning back to Dorset.

Time to drive: 2 hour 18 minutes

Website: Discover Muskoka

• Famous provincial parks
• Breweries and wineries
• Lake cruises
• Algonquin Provincial Park
• Arrowhead Provincial Park
• Group of Seven Outdoor Gallery
• Sugarbush Hill Maple Farm
• Treetop Trekking Huntsville
• Muskoka Brewery
• Muskoka Lakes Winery
• SS Bagwin Lake of Bays Cruise
• That Little Place by the Lights
• 3 Guys & A Stove
• The Artisan House
• Red Maple Inn and Suites
• Deerhurst Resort

If you’re looking to head out east for a day-camping experience, Ferris Provincial Park is an excellent choice.  Located in Campbellford, Ontario, it is situated along the banks of Trent River.

From the park, you have access to the suspension bridge above Ranney Gorge.  From here, you’ll get unobstructed views of Trent River, Ranney Falls, and an old tannery.  Just be careful if you’re afraid of heights!

The park also has several hiking trails to choose from, most of which will take you to or close to Ranney Falls and the Trent River gorge.  Along the way, also expect to see stone fences and rare flora and fauna.  The hikes to look for are the Ranney Falls, Ranney Gorge, and Drumlin Trail Systems.

If you’re staying overnight, the provincial park has excellent camping facilities.   You can also stay in Campbellford.

Address: 474 County Rd. 8, Campbellford, K0L 1L0

Website: Ferris Provincial Park

Price:  Pricing is by vehicle

• Regular: $12.25
• Senior: $9.75
• Disabilities: $6.00
• Suspended bridge
• Toonie Monument
• Church Key Brewing Company
• Dooher’s Bakery
• Antonia’s Bistro
• Caper’s Tap House
• Emilyville Inn
• Campbellford River Inn

This one’s a little further away from Toronto but if you’re up for a bit of an adventure, you can consider doing this stretch day-trip to the most southern point of mainland Canada or stay overnight to truly maximize what you can see and do here.

Point Pelee National Park is an ecologically diverse park that has a plethora of natural wonders to be discovered whether in the summer or winter.  70% of the park is composed of marsh that is and 21% is forest.

One of the highlights is to visit the southern most point and you can visit there by shuttle which is offered between April and October.  From here, you can see wild flowers, local birds, dragonfly, and monarch migrations.   In the winter months, you can drive down here.

There are numerous hikes you can do in the old Carolinian forest.  There are simple hikes like the Marsh Boardwalk (1 km loop) that take you through the Ramsar Wetlands, the DeLaurier Homestead & Trail (1.2 km loop) to learn about the land’s history with the First Nations,  the Botham Tree Trail , the Tilden Woods Trail (1 km loop), or there’s the Woodland Nature Trail (2.75 km loop) .

Other activities you can enjoy while you’re out here is cycling, geocaching, canoeing, kayaking, and swimming.

The park also offers guided tours.  They have a Junior Naturalist Program in the summer for kids 7 to 11.  They also have a Freighter Canoe Tour, Wildflower Walk, and Family Migration Hike.

Point Pelee is not to be confused with Pelee Island which can be reached by ferry .

Lastly, since this is a national park, you can use your Parks Canada Discovery Pass for free access.

Address: 1118 Point Pelee Drive, Leamington ON N8H 3V4

Hours: Click here for the full hours.

Website: Point Pelee National Park

Price:  

• Adult: $7.90
• Senior: $6.90
• Family: $16.00
• Adult: $6.10
• Senior: $5.10
• Family: $12
• Natural landscapes
• Water activities
• Leamington Municipal Marina
• Pelee Island Heritage Centre
• Pelee Island Winery
• Birdies Perch
• Freddy’s
• Lakeside Bakery Deli Cafe
• Point Pelee National Park oTENTik Yurts
• Talbot Trail Inn & Suites
• Best Western Plus Leamington

Last but not least is are our friendly neighbours to the south.  Buffalo is just across the border from Niagara Falls and is a great option as a day trip.  While it won’t be enough to truly see the entire city, there’s plenty of time to get a feel for what that revitalization of Buffalo that I experienced all those years ago is all about.

At Buffalo’s core, this is a city that has a glorious past and one that has seen tougher times but is on a new trajectory of growth.  This can be seen from the examples of art deco in its architecture including the City Hall .  Another piece of interesting architecture is the Frank Lloyd Wright’s Martin House .

The best examples of revitalization can be seen from the RiverWorks , the waterfront that’s transformed into an entertainment complex as a venue for skating, hockey, curling, concerts, dining, bars, and concessions.  Canalside is adjacent to RiverWorks and closer to the downtown core.  Here, you’ll have access to waterfront views, public park space, and event venue space for things like summer concerts.

The Albright-Knox Art Gallery and  Theodore Roosevelt Inaugural National Historic Site are two highlights for visitors.

If you’re looking for something with a bit more adventure, check out the ziplines at the abandoned grain elevators or paddleboard the Buffalo River.

When it comes to food, Watson’s Chocolate and and Anchor Bar are classic institutions in the city.  That said, some of the best hops are had at Resurgence Bar .

Of course, if you’re primarily interested in shopping and checking out the sights on the American side of Niagara Falls, there’s always that too!  Also, don’t forget to check out Fort Niagara and the lesser known Buffalo wine trail .

If you like what you see in your planning, add a day or two to your trip to make it a full weekend or long weekend!

Website: Visit Buffalo

• Architecture
• Entertainment
• Local shopping
• Outlet shopping
• American Niagara Falls
• Frank Lloyd Wright’s Martin House
• Albright-Knox Art Gallery
• Theodore Roosevelt Inaugural National Historic Site
• Buffalo City Hall
• Old Fort Niagara
• Fashion Outlets of Niagara Falls
• Zipline at RiverWorks
• Wings Beer and More Bike and Foodie Tour
• Best of Buffalo on Bike
• New Buffalo Foodie Experience
• Resurgence Brewing Company
• Watson’s Chocolate
• Pearl Street Grill & Brewery
• Hilton Garden Inn Buffalo Downtown
• Courtyard by Marriott Canalside

ACTIVITIES IN BUFFALO

Whether you’re looking for a weekend trip from Toronto or just building your own itinerary for your visit to the Greater Toronto Area and Ontario, I’d love to hear from you about whether you agree with this list or have questions.  Drop a comment down below!

Once you’re outside of the GTA, public transportation options become more limited. It may be possible to use extended transportation in the Great Golden Horseshoe through GO Transit , however a car is highly recommended for the trips on this list. There are many locations to rent a car in the city.

Yes, it is quite easy to rent a car, whether it’s through the major car rental companies or car sharing companies such as Turo. Make sure to take advantage of car rental coupon codes when renting a car.

Summer is the best time overall to do weekend trips from Toronto but this is also the busiest time of the year, especially during school holiday. This is why spring and autumn are great times to explore outside of the city especially when you factor in new blooms and the changing of leaves.

What you should read next

• A 3 Day Niagara Falls Itinerary That Goes Beyond Just The Falls
• Top 15 Niagara Falls Wine Tours
• 3 Wineries to Visit on the Niagara Wine Trail
• Guide to 11 of the Best Waterfalls of Hamilton
• 24 Hour Toronto Itinerary

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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Jennifer Nicol Colwell says

September 24, 2020 at 2:26 AM

Thanks for this great guide on Weekend trip from Toronto. Next time, I am going to explore Niagara Falls, Buffalo, and other spots.

Will Tang says

September 24, 2020 at 10:38 AM

Thanks for stopping by! Yes, Niagara Falls is always a winner but make sure to look out for some of the hidden gems like Niagara Glen Gorge!

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Outside Greater Toronto Area, Toronto – Off the Beaten Path

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Off the Beaten Path in Toronto Outside Greater Toronto Area

Toronto is the most important city in Canada. It is the economic and cultural center of the country and draws a number of visitors and tourists every year. There are a ton of great attractions in the city, but there are also some lesser-known things to do off the beaten path in the area. Here are some tips on what to do off the beaten path in the Greater Toronto Area.

Visit 1000 Islands

The 1000 Islands are located in the St. Lawrence River which makes up the border between Canada and the United States. It is a popular attraction for people that are residents of both countries. They are a great place for boating or just relaxing by the water.

Canadian Winery

a popular winery in the Toronto, Canada are is the Stoney Ridge Winery. This place has a quaint and cute look, making it a great place to take the women in your life while you are on a family vacation. It has some visual appeal, but the winery also produces some great wine. You can drive to the winery or get there via a rented private bus tour.

Urban Islands

The Toronto Islands are a spectacular urban park, and sizable too. There are over 600 acres of open space on the islands. They provide a lot of great things to do like biking, jogging, boating, and more. This is a great location to take your family because there are activities available for people of all ages. There are about 24 islands in the area that are named after early settlers in the area. The most popular island in the group is Centre Island.

Editor’s note:  The information contained on this page was compiled using real traveler reviews about things to do off the beaten path in Greater Toronto.

We hand-pick everything we recommend and select items through testing and reviews. Some products are sent to us free of charge with no incentive to offer a favorable review. We offer our unbiased opinions and do not accept compensation to review products. All items are in stock and prices are accurate at the time of publication. If you buy something through our links, we may earn a commission.

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5 Charming Small Towns Near Toronto

Toronto is a bustling, multicultural metropolis with exceptional restaurants, hotels, shopping, and theater. However, consider balancing a hectic Toronto itinerary with nearby communities that are big on small-town charm. These small towns convey the unique aspects of Ontario's history and character, giving visitors to the region a fuller Canadian experience.

Country Fare and a Fetching Downtown in Picton, Prince Edward County

The largest community in the lovely, agricultural region of  Prince Edward County , Picton is one of those  Ontario  towns with a great main drag meant to meander within.

Allow a day to stroll and discover the many shops, such as City Revival, a giant consignment store with designer labels, or grab a coffee at Miss Lily's and peruse the books next door at  Books and Company —how a bookstore was meant to be: with a real live cat, a great second-hand section, and comfy chairs.

Prince Edward County as a whole is famous for its wineries & vineyards, local agricultural fare (hit the Taste Trail), arts & crafts (hit the Arts Trail),  Sandbanks Provincial Park  right on the beach, and plenty of cycling trails.

Things to Do:  Shop, bike, antique shop, wine taste, hike, beach

Distance From Toronto:  215 km (134 mi) or 2 ½ hours by car.

Public Transportation:   GO Train from Toronto to Belleville, which is 30 minutes from Picton, but having a car to visit Prince Edward County is ideal.

Nearby:  Kingston, a historic city and Canada's original capital, is an hour away.

Wine and Culture in Niagara-on-the-Lake

For as much as  Niagara Falls  is grand, brazen and chintzy, Niagara-on-the-Lake is charming, elegant and tasteful. 

Famous especially for its annual Shaw Theatre Festival,  Niagara-on-the-Lake boasts an alluring main street and is surrounded by exquisitely gentrified heritage homes and gardens and wineries.

The area is also known as a golf destination and has several excellent courses close by.

Niagara-on-the-Lake is more of a B&B kind of place, rather than ​a big hotel chain, in keeping with its historic character. Leave the Holiday Inn behind and try one of the town's many charming smaller scale accommodations.

Things to Do:  Wine taste, see a show, garden tour, golf, bike, hike

Distance From Toronto:  130 km (81 mi) or 1½ hour by car.

Public Transportation:  Seasonal GO Train service, lots of busses, and shuttles.

Nearby:  Niagara Falls, Buffalo, St. Catharines

Small Town Charm in Dundas

The town of Dundas is a quiet little find, beloved by its residents who are increasingly people from Toronto making the switch to more affordable housing and green space outside the big city. 

Technically part of Hamilton, Dundas has retained a separate identity in part because of its geographical location in a valley, safeguarded by an abundance of conservation areas, including a wealth of trails and waterfalls.

The town of about 20,000 has dodged the sprawl bullet, maintaining a vibrant main drag that features longstanding restaurants, boutiques, and businesses with well-preserved 19th-century architecture. It's the kind of Main street where drivers just stop to let pedestrians cross. A wave, a smile and everyone's on their way. 

Don't miss the  Dundas Museum and Archives  located on one of Dundas' most sublime residential streets. Quatrefoil is the town's five-star dining pride and joy.

Things to Do:  Shop, hike, visit galleries/museums, bike

Distance From Toronto:  71 km (44 mi) 1 hour by car

Public Transportation:  Closest GO Train is Aldershot or Hamilton - 15 - 20 minutes away.

Nearby:  Royal Botanical Gardens,  Hamilton attractions

Heritage Beauty in Port Hope

Just over an hour from Toronto, the lakeside community of Port Hope has the best-preserved 19th-century streetscape in Ontario. In fact, 300 buildings are heritage-designated giving the town the highest per capita rate of preservation in Canada and a unique, historic charm best enjoyed on foot.

If you are making your way leisurely to Montreal or Kingston, Port Hope is a great place to stop for a break or even overnight. The well preserved ​Waddell Hotel, built in 1845, sits right on the main drag overlooking the Ganaraska River.

Things to Do:  Shop, beach, fish, golf, hike

Distance From Toronto:  109 km (68 mi) or just over one hour by car

Public Transportation:  GO Train to Port Hope station.

Nearby:  Ste Anne's Spa

Riverside Appeal of Elora

The town of Elora and nearby Elmira and Fergus offer up small-town Ontario at its best. Famous for its 19th-century limestone architecture, Elora has maintained the Elora Quarry Conservation Area as a swimming spot. The town is perched prettily on the Grand River and the Elora Gorge. This quaint village is noted for its interesting shops, country inns, and B&Bs. Things to Do:  Shop, tube down the Grand River, hike,  Fergus Scottish Festival ,  Elora Festival ,  Elora-Fergus Artist Studio Tour .

Distance From Toronto:  116 km (72 mi) or 1½ hour by car

Public Transportation:  Not available

Nearby:  St Jacobs Country

Day Trips from Toronto

Niagara Falls, Canada: Planning Your Trip

The 10 Best Things to Do in Ontario

The Ultimate Cross-Canada Road Trip: Montreal to Vancouver

Prince Edward County Travel Guide

The Best Staycation in Every State

Niagara Falls and Toronto 3-Day Itinerary

The Best Small Town in Every State

What to See and Do on Kitsap Peninsula

August in Canada: Weather, What to Pack, and What to See

A Comprehensive Gay Guide to Ottawa, Ontario

12 Best Small Towns in Colorado

The 28 Best Day Trips From Seattle

Affordable Gay Vacation Towns

Don't Miss These Attractions in Ottawa

Your Trip to New York State: The Complete Guide

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Must-Try Food and Drink Destinations Outside the GTA

Christine Peddie

The best day-trip destinations from Toronto offer an escape from the everyday along with enough bites and bevvies to make the outing feel special. Whether you love the feeling of hours at the wheel or prefer to reach your destination sooner, there are options here for you.

Each of these stops offers entertainment beyond food for those who need adventure, shopping, natural wonders and more in their lives. Still, when it comes to eating and drinking, they've also got you covered. From the chicest tables to casual patios offering top-notch fare, these places are your best bets for destination dining.

Even if your summer plans are devoid of exotic escapes, there are still ways to seize the season here at home. Friends or family in tow, hop in a car and focus on nothing but the open road, the glowing summer sun, and the destination ahead. The best day trip destinations for food lovers are bound to surprise, with new sights, new tastes and, most importantly, new experiences you're sure to cherish all season long.

Drake Devonshire

Located just under 3 hours from Toronto, head to Prince Edward County for a relaxing weekend filled with wine tours, brewery visits and, of course, plenty of delicious food. One of the more popular destinations to stay, the Drake Devonshire Inn also boasts a fantastic restaurant overlooking the lake.

St. Jacobs Farmers' Market

Canada's largest year-round farmers' market is most definitely worth the drive to Waterloo. Visit the multitude of food stalls, produce stands, butchers and more!

Castelli Cucina

337 James St N

@castellicucina

Located on the bustling James Street in Hamilton, Ontario, Castelli Cucina is the destination for incredible Italian fare. Find a selection of pasta, pizza, appetizers and a great selection of wines.

The Restaurant at Pearl Morissette

3953 Jordan Rd

@restaurant_pearlmorissette

Located on the renowned Pearl Morissette property, The Restaurant at Pearl Morissette is the epitome of destination dining. Touted as one of the best restaurants in Canada, coming in at No. 14 on Canada's 100 Best list, Pearl Morissette offers a tasting menu rooted in French techniques but uses seasonal and often foraged ingredients.

The Prune Restaurant

151 Albert St

@prunerestaurant

Opened in 1977, The Prune is one of Stratford's most beloved eateries. The perfect après-theatre spot, this storied restaurant, now with indoor dining and a not-so-secret, "Secret Garden Patio," is the place to toast your reclaimed freedom over creative plates inspired by the local bounty and infused with global flavours.

Spencer’s At The Waterfront

1340 Lakeshore Rd

@spencers_w

For less adventurous days, a trip to Burlington is enough to provide the change of scenery you crave. Settle in on Spencer's terrace and bask in stunning views of Lake Ontario. Then, order from a menu of comforting, sophisticated dishes crafted from local, seasonal ingredients and toast to the short drive home.

Redstone Winery

4245 King St

@redstonewinery

Owned by Moray Tawse of Tawse Winery, Redstone has been creating wines with a unique terroir, thanks to the area's intensely red clay soil, since 2010. The sprawling space boasts a patio, picnic area and 80-seat restaurant where striking dishes -- from lamb burgers to hand-cut beef tartare -- are served alongside glasses, tasting flights and bottles of award-winning Redstone wines.

Ravine Winery

1366 York Rd

@ravinevineyard

Taste your way around Niagara, then find your way to Ravine for a feast framed by the land, family legacy and a commitment to organic, sustainable farming and agriculture. From award-winning wines to a menu of deftly-prepared, unfussy dishes, a visit to Ravine is the perfect way to cap off any Niagara tour.

16 Sydenham St

@quatrefoilrestaurant

If city life is running you ragged, head to Dundas, Ontario, where the small-town aura will calm you from head to toe. After strolling downtown, settle in for a leisurely lunch at Quatrefoil, where a series of refined, contemporary French plates never fails to impress.

Matty Matheson's Meat and Three

465 Central Ave

@mattymathesonsmeatandthree

For a Niagara jaunt that's not too posh, Matty Matheson has you covered. Located in Fort Erie, Matty Matheson's Meat and Three serves up all manner of tempting barbecue, from pork butt to brisket, with fried chicken thrown in for good measure.

Langdon Hall Country House Hotel and Spa

1 Langdon Dr

@langdonhall

This is the summer to go big. A stop at Langdon Hall, a Relais & Chateaux property, is a must for the ultimate in lavish living. Nestled in the Cambridge countryside, this 75-acre modern country estate is the place to relax with a cocktail, linger over afternoon tea, or revel in every dish created by executive chef Jason Bangerter.

Lake on the Mountain Resort

264 County Rd 7

@lakeonthemountain

A tad off the beaten path, this cozy Prince Edward Island spot is worth seeking out for a host of reasons, from impressive views to an on-site brewery, two eateries, and more. Located on the shores of the area's mysterious Lake on the Mountain, 62-metres above Lake Ontario, this unique destination is one of PEC's top hidden gems.

@hearts_greycounty

From the team behind Ossington's Côte de Boeuf and Union comes Hearts, the new "it" spot in Grey Bruce. With a menu of locally-sourced, impeccable dishes -- from the justifiably famous Union salad to French hen with crispy fries -- a bottle shop and butchery, a stop at Hearts buoys any trip to the scenic Beaver Valley.

Elora Mill Hotel and Spa

77 W Mill St

@elora_mill

Head to Elora, about 2 hours northwest of Toronto, for shopping, to explore the impressive gorge, and to dine at the Elora Mill's sublime restaurant. The best part? If you overindulge, the hotel offers the area's most luxurious accommodations.

Eigensinn Farm

449357 10th Concession

@eigensinnfarm

One of Ontario's original farm-to-table chefs, Michael Stadtländer, is a legend whose cuisine and unique presentations create synergy between guests and the land. Reopening on August 20, Eigensinn Farm in Singhampton will once again be offering multi-course meals where guests marvel at every morsel.

Cowbell Brewing Co.

40035 Blyth Rd

@cowbellbrewing

Theatre buffs will want to head to Blyth for the 2021 season of the Blyth Festival, moving outdoors for the first time in its 46-year history. After the show, Cowbell Brewing Co. is the place to wet your whistle and tuck into a varied menu of pub-worthy bites. With a patio, spacious restaurant and beer garden, there's enough space for you, your crew, and any dramatic scenes that ensue.

Cambridge Mill

100 Water St N

@cambridge_mill

Located on the Grand River near Galt, one of Cambridge's most charming neighbourhoods, the Cambridge Mill combines gorgeous views with an elegant menu, replete with locally-sourced ingredients.

Bench Brewing

3991 King St

@benchbrewing

With a huge patio, an appealing menu of Bench Bites, traditional as well as funky and sour beers imbued with Niagara terroir, Bench Brewing in Beamsville, Ontario, is a unique Niagara stop that wine-weary beer enthusiasts won't want to miss.

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Best Road Trips From Toronto

Top road trip destinations from toronto.

Experience the awe-inspiring beauty of Niagara Falls. Take a boat tour to get up close to the falls or marvel from many of the jaw-dropping viewpoints.

Explore vibrant Detroit, known for its automotive history and revitalized downtown area. This dynamic city is a must-visit.

Needing little introduction, New York City is brimming with world-renowned attractions. Make sure to visit a Broadway show, explore Central Park and Times Square, and admire the Statue of Liberty.

Discover the capital city of Canada, Ottawa, with historic landmarks and national museums. Parliament Hill, the Canadian Museum of History, is just one of the highlights.

Visit unforgettable Nova Scotia, with rugged coastlines, pretty fishing villages, and historic sites. The Cabot Trail and interesting town of Lunenburg are both must-visits. As is a taste of the delicious seafood.

At stunning Algonquin Provincial Park you can expect pristine lakes, forests and wildlife in abundance! A must for outdoor fans, explore the hiking trails and go canoeing or kayaking.

The historic charm of Montreal, with cobblestone streets and lively festivals makes it pretty special. Head to Old Montreal, climb Mount Royal, and delight at trying the renowned bagels.

With iconic architecture and world-class museums with sites such as Millennium Park, Chicago has plenty to offer. Plus you can unwind after all that exploring with a tasty deep-dish pizza.

Relax on the sunny beaches and enjoy the lively entertainment scene of Myrtle Beach. Whether you're golfing, shopping, or dining, there's something for everyone.

With a rich history, New Orleans has an unrivalled music scene, with Mardi Gras a must-visit festival. Make sure a visit to French Quarter and steamboat cruise on the Mississippi are also on the to-do list.

Enjoy an unforgettable journey to Newfoundland, with its enchanting coastline. Explore Gros Morne National Park, visit historic St. John's, and witness icebergs along the coast.

Cruise through Thousand Islands, where clear waters and charming islands await. Take a boat tour, go kayaking, or explore historic castles in this picturesque region.

Nashville, renowned for its music scene, isn't just for country music lovers. Check out the legendary honky-tonks on Broadway, visit the Country Music Hall of Fame, and indulge in delicious Southern cuisine.

Step back in time and explore the historic charm of Quebec City, with its cobblestone streets, fortified walls, and European ambiance.

Discover the iconic landmarks of Washington DC, the capital of the United States. National Mall, Smithsonian, White House and the Lincoln Memorial are just some legendary sites.

Explore the scenic beauty of Lake Ontario, one of the Great Lakes of North America. Enjoy waterfront activities like boating and fishing, or just relax and take in the stunning views.

Expect an adventure when you arrive at Bruce Peninsula National Park. The ancient forests make way for memorable hikes along the Bruce Trail, where you can visit the famous Grotto, and enjoy views of Georgian Bay.

Journey around Lake Michigan and Lake Huron, with stunning coastline and charming waterfront towns. There are plenty of options for some rest and relaxation on sandy shores as you make your way.

Experience the magic of Orlando, home to world-famous theme parks like Walt Disney World, Universal Studios, and SeaWorld.

Explore the rich history and vibrant culture of Boston, one of America's oldest cities. Walk the Freedom Trail, visit historic landmarks like the Boston Tea Party Ships, and indulge in delicious seafood at Quincy Market.

Discover the natural beauty of Manitoulin Island, the world's largest freshwater island. Explore scenic trails, visit charming villages, and learn more about the Indigenous culture at museums and art galleries.

Discover the historic charm of Philadelphia, home to attractions such as Liberty Bell, Independence Hall, and the Philadelphia Museum of Art. Make sure to order a delicious Philly cheesesteak during your visit.

From the bustling boardwalks of Atlantic City to the scenic beauty of the Jersey Shore, there is plenty to enjoy when you visit New Jersey. Great fun for the whole family along the coast.

The beaches of Miami are renowned, as is the art deco architecture and Latin cuisine. After dancing the night away, relax on South Beach.

Escape to the serene wilderness of Muskoka, known for its outdoor adventures, with some of the finest trails in Ontario's cottage country.

Discover the rich history of Cleveland, home to world-class museums. Visit the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, explore the Cleveland Museum of Art, and enjoy waterfront dining along Lake Erie.

Explore picturesque Gananoque, gateway to the stunning Thousand Islands region. Cruise the scenic waterways, visit landmarks like Boldt Castle, and experience outdoor adventures in this waterfront town.

Longer road trips from Toronto

Embark on a journey to Quebec and the stunning Saguenay Fjord, where historic charm meets natural beauty.

Discover the vibrant city of Calgary, gateway to the Canadian Rockies and host of the famous Calgary Stampede, bursting with western hospitality.

Experience the breathtaking beauty of Banff National Park, renowned for its rugged mountains, turquoise lakes, and plentiful wildlife.

Explore the scenic wonders of Thunder Bay and Quetico Provincial Park, where outdoor adventures like canoeing, hiking, and wildlife spotting await you.

Experience the glitz and glamour of Los Angeles, where Hollywood dreams come to life amidst palm-lined streets and sunny beaches.

Journey to the coastal city of Vancouver, nestled between mountains and ocean, with diverse neighborhoods, and stunning natural beauty of British Columbia.

Gorgeous Scenic Places in GTA and Surrounding Area

Chester hill lookout.

Chester Hill Lookout offers you the best views of a big city landscape. Relatively unknown for tourists or anyone living outside of the Danforth, it’s a place worth visiting. From here you can view the Don Valley Parkway, Prince Edward Viaduct set against a skyline backdrop. It is a perfect place for a romantic date, for photographers who want to snap a perfect IG picture or just to sit and relax while viewing Toronto’s landscape.

Don Valley Pkwy, Toronto, ON M4K 1V4 ( View Map ) ontariotravel.net

Check seasons, hours and other details before you go.

Sheldon Lookout

Sheldon Lookout in Humber Bay Park is a place you have to go. It has numerous trails to walk or bike. Here you can come for fishing or just sit and enjoy the stunning views. There are also a lot of fun things to do for your children. This scenic place received an Honourable Mention in the 2000 Architecture & Urban Design Awards.

Martin Goodman Trail, Etobicoke, ON M8V 3W9  ( View Map ) mytorontoscoop.com

Ashbridge’s Bay

Once part of the large sand dune now Ashbridges Bay Park is a beautiful area on the waterfront in the east end of Toronto. This place has a 3 kilometers trail that runs from Ashbridge’s Bay in the west to the R. C. Harris Water Treatment Plant in the east along Lake Ontario. Opened in 1977 Ashbridge’s Bay Park was improved by Waterfront Toronto, including the building of a skateboard park. It is surrounded by marinas, the treatment plant and a tree line.

1561 Lake Shore Blvd E, Toronto, ON M4L 3W6  ( View Map ) toronto.ca

Rouge National Urban Park

Rouge National Urban Park offers natural, cultural and agricultural landscapes in the Great Toronto Area. It is Toronto’s only campground with one of the region’s largest marshes. For walking lovers it offers amazing hiking opportunities.

Zoo Rd, Toronto, ON M1B 5W8  ( View Map ) pc.gc.ca

Heart Lake Conservation Park

In Heart Lake Conservation Park you will find the best outdoor entertainment. Fishing, water wars in the pool, it has it all. For those who want to workout in a natural environment, Heart Lake Park has a fitness trail with four outdoor fitness stations that offer strength training, cardio activities, enhanced stretching and more.

As stated on the website, with 10 picnic sites located throughout the park, Heart Lake Conservation Park can easily accommodate groups, both large and small. Our friendly customer service representatives will help you determine the best site for your group, and will even set you up with caterers, tent rental and entertainment companies.

10818 Heart Lake Rd, Brampton, ON L6Z 0B3  ( View Map ) trca.ca

Colonel Samuel Smith Park

Along a stretch of wooded shoreline in the Kipling and Lakeshore area there is a Colonel Samuel Smith Park. This place features a unfenced Dogs Off-Leash Area and ice skating trail in a figure-eight shape.

As stated on their website, it is home to a variety of plants, trees, birds and other wildlife, as well as a network of paths.

3145 Lake Shore Blvd W, Etobicoke, ON M8V 4B6  ( View Map ) toronto.ca

Cherry Beach Clarke Beach Park

Looking for a new place to spend your days in nature? Cherry Beach Clarke Beach Park is a perfect place for families and companies. Here you can enjoy a walk in solitude, or bring your whole family and even dog. The park offers a dog-off-leash area and the west side of the beach is popular with kite boarders.

1 Cherry St, Toronto, ON  ( View Map ) toronto.ca

Rattlesnake Point Conservation Area

Rattlesnake Point is perfect in any season. In this conservation area near Toronto you can spend the whole day, walking the trails, seeing the turkey, ecological rarities like the thousand year old cedar and many more interesting things.

According to their website, here you can camp under the stars; find the constellations. Get out of the gym and rock climb on a cliff face, stretch out your stress during Yoga in the Park, or enjoy a day hike with your family and friends in the great outdoors close to home.

7200 Appleby Line, Milton, ON L9E 0M9  ( View Map ) toronto.ca

Forks of the Credit Provincial Park

Forks of the Credit Provincial Park is an amazing place for those who want to escape from a busy city and enjoy their day in nature. Here you can take a walk on various trails, have a picnic with friends and family, and go fishing.

According to their website, there are numerous trails throughout the park – Bruce trail, Dominion trail, Kettle trail, Meadow trail, Trans Canada trail. Horseback riding is permitted on the Trans Canada trail only.

17760 McLaren Rd, Caledon, ON L7K 2H8  ( View Map ) ontarioparks.com

Claireville Conservation Area

Claireville Conservation Area features 848 acres of natural and forested place in Peel Region and Toronto. For those who want to explore local wildlife and natural landscape Claireville if one of the best places. It is perfect for birders, walkers and bikers.

According to their website, Claireville Conservation Area is the largest natural setting of its kind, on the doorstep of four major GTA cities: Brampton, Mississauga, Toronto and Vaughan. The natural landscape here boasts wetlands, valleys, forests, grasslands and the west branch of the Humber River and its tributaries.

8180 Hwy 50, Brampton, ON L6T 0A6  ( View Map ) trca.ca

Looking for Great Places for a Weekend Trip?

We've been there... Finding a great destination for a family trip almost always turned into several hours of research and collecting fragments of information from everywhere. So we decided to change it and created  LocalOntario.ca  (the website you are now on). For you and for us. We try our best to add new places on a daily basis!

Swimming Schools of Toronto and GTA

Dance Studios of Toronto and GTA

Curling Clubs of Toronto and Surrounding Area

Best Ballet Academies of Toronto and GTA

Art Schools of Toronto and GTA

White Water Rafting in Toronto and GTA

DECEMBER 2020

Racetracks of Toronto and GTA

Fencing clubs of Toronto and GTA

Kids Party Entertainment in Toronto

Bowling Alleys of Toronto

NOVEMBER 2020

Best Soccer Clubs of Toronto and GTA

Places in Toronto for Rock Climbing

Go-Kart Tracks in Toronto

Sailing Clubs of Toronto and GTA

Farmers Markets of Toronto and GTA

Welcome to Toronto Water Parks

Glamping Experience in Ontario

Rowing in Toronto and Niagara

OCTOBER 2020

Camping Places in Toronto

Exploring Little Towns around GTA

Maple Syrup Festivals in Toronto

Bike Trails of Toronto and Surrounding Area

Halloween Events in Toronto and Around GTA

Exploring Toronto during Fall

Gelato Cafes in Toronto & around GTA

Skating with Family in Toronto and around GTA

Birdwatching Places of Toronto

Dog Parks of Toronto and Surrounding Area

SEPTEMBER 2020

Horseback Riding around GTA

Dog Sledding Adventures around GTA

Ski Resorts near Toronto and around GTA

Museums and Galleries in Toronto and GTA

Treetop Trekking around GTA

Winter Festivals in Toronto and around GTA

National Parks of Toronto and around GTA

Indoor Playgrounds of Woodbridge

Scenic Places in GTA and Surrounding Area

Pick-Your-Own Peach Farms in Niagara Region

Falls and Conservation Areas near Toronto

Artisan Coffee Shops of Downtown Toronto

Drive-In Theatres near Toronto

Caves, Parks and Islands of Tobermory

Lavender Farms near Toronto

Craft Coffee Shops in Thornhill

AUGUST 2020

Indoor Playgrounds in North York

Sandy Beaches of Toronto

Craft Coffee Shops in Richmond Hill

Craft Coffee Shops in North York

Family Owned Wineries in Prince Edward County

Family-Friendly Animal Farms near Toronto

Best Indoor Playgrounds in Vaughan

Family Owned Wineries in Stoney Creek

Indoor Playgrounds in Richmond Hill

Indoor Playgrounds in Mississauga

Family Owned Wineries in Stouffville

Wineries and Vineyards in Niagara Region

Pick-Your-Own Apple Orchards near Toronto

Best Public Gardens near Toronto and GTA

Butterfly Conservatories near Toronto

Honey Farms in Southern Ontario

Ostrich Farms near Toronto

Family-Friendly Zoos Near Toronto

Family-Friendly Zoos in Niagara Region

Pick-Your-Own Cherry Farms in Niagara Region

We created this website for you and for us. We are trying our best to add new destinations daily. 

Hiking the GTA

Places to hike and things to see in and around the greater toronto area.

Our Favourite Hikes

April 27, 2024

We started our blog with our initial post on April 27, 2014, Since then we’ve done a few “greatest hits” type posts where we featured the stories that have had the most reads. To celebrate our tenth anniversary we’re looking at some of the hikes that were the most fun for us. The places that were the most enjoyable and had the most interesting artifacts or histories. With over 600 posts its hard to choose the most enjoyable ones but the fifteen listed below represent some of our most loved ones. These are presented in no particular order. Click on the title of the article in each box and it will take you to the story. Links to the locations will be at the end of each story.

This large park in Mississauga had so much history from the estate and farms that we ended up splitting it into three posts.

Riverwood Part 1 – The Bird Property (Mississauga)

Riverwood Part 2 – Riverwood Estate (Mississauga)

Riverwood Part 3 – Zaichuk Property (Mississauga)

The Bell Fountain – Belfountain

The park in Belfountain was created as one man’s dream and has a man made waterfall, swing bridge and many other interesting artifacts to explore.

The Bell Fountain – Belfountain

The Caledon Aerial Tramway – Cox Property

This exploration was based on looking for evidence of an aerial tramway that used to carry quarried rock across the ravine.

The Caledon Aerial Tramway – The Cox Property

Kelso’s Kilns

While looking for two old lime kilns near Kelso we also found the remains of another kiln location.

UTM Nature Trail

This nature trail explores the old estate that now forms the campus for the University of Toronto Mississauga Campus and includes a man made pond and stone bridge.

Milton Mill Pond

There’s lots of interesting things to find as you loop around the old mill pond in Milton.

Scotsdale Farm

This park in Halton includes a Bruce Trail side trail as well as several other trails and historic buildings.

Elora Gorge

The scenic gorge in Elora is also home to the refurbished Elora Mill and makes for a great hike.

The Hole In The Wall

Near Limehouse the Bruce Trail passes through this karst formation and makes for an interesting and mildly challenging hike.

Hole In The Wall

The history of the lime industry is on display in the conservation area in Limehouse.

Felker’s Falls

One of several waterfalls that we have explored in the Hamilton Area. They say that Hamilton has 100 waterfalls as all of the rainwater that falls on top of the escarpment makes its way to Lake Ontario.

The Devil’s Punch Bowl

Exploring the upper and lower Punch Bowl Falls makes for an interesting and challenging hike.

The Devil’s Punch Bowl

Albion Falls

This exploration was done when it was still possible to get to the bottom of the falls. It has now been closed to the public due to the large number of rescues that had to be made of people who got injured down there.

The Barber Dynamo – Georgetown

This is a challenging trail that leads to one of the truly unique places in the GTA where electricity was generated to run the Georgetown Paper Mills.

The Barber Dynamo – Georgetown

Abandoned Passmore Avenue

Passmore Avenue runs just south of Steeles Avenue through Scarborough and has several sections that have been closed to traffic.

There are many other places that we thoroughly enjoyed exploring but there’s no room to list them all. By going to our main page at http://www.hikingthegta.com you can use the search feature to look for specific topics such as waterfalls, the Bruce Trail or ghost towns. You can also look for places in a specific town or area near you. Enjoy, and thanks for this first decade of reading our posts.

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Mullet Creek’s Secret Waterfalls

Monday October 12, 2015

Mullet Creek contained a couple of surprise waterfalls and an old dam in the short section we hiked.  It originates in Meadowvale north of the 407  and empties into the Credit River on the University of Toronto Mississauga campus.  It was a gorgeous long weekend and Thanksgiving Monday was a beautiful day for a brief hike before getting the turkey in the oven.  We parked on O’Neil Court and entered the woods through the community walkway.

Reginald Watkins bought 150 acres of land in 1928 north of the now abandoned  Erindale Power Dam .  He tore down one house on the property and enlarged the other which was named Lislehurst.  In 1965 The University of Toronto bought the property and founded Erindale College which is now called University of Toronto Mississauga.  The section of park backs onto the university campus and contains the remains of an old out building at the crest of the hill overlooking the ravine.  It appears that a series of trial excavation holes have been dug to investigate the ruins.

A long thin promontory of land provides access to the creek level.  We followed it down to where Mullet Creek winds it’s way through the ravine and on to the Credit River nearby. The creek splits into sections in the ravine and we crossed each in turn as we made our way north along the valley floor.

There are over 30 varieties of periwinkle.  As an invasive species they grow aggressively, often choking out native plant life.  They are frequently recommended for partially shaded areas or places where growing plants is difficult.  Care must be taken because they can escape and take hold in the wild.  One plant can spread to an area 8 feet across.  They normally bloom in late April to early May but we found a stray splash of periwinkle blue in the undergrowth.

An old steam boiler lies rusting away at the side of Mullet Creek.  It would have originally stood on four metal feet on the bottom.  The lower half contained the fire box and was open on the opposite side to this picture.  The front flue sheet contains the holes that the flues passed through and is matched by a second flue sheet on the back.

Mullet Creek is crossed by the double span of Burnhamthorpe Road.  A recent assessment was done for this bridge as well as sister bridges over the Credit River just east of here.  Original construction had created bridges where the sidewalks were too small to be properly functional. The study was completed to address several concerns.  At just .838 metres high, the guard rail on the river edge of the sidewalk was considered too low for safety.  The proposal was to increase this rail to 1.4 m.  There was also no rail between the sidewalk and road and so a second rail was proposed on the curb side.  The sidewalk was to be increased from 1.7 to 3 metres wide to allow cyclists and pedestrians to safely pass.  Look-out platforms were also created. This was accomplished by widening the road deck on the outside of the bridge.  The west bound span is seen from the creek level in the picture below.

Just beyond the Burnhamthorpe bridge lie the remains of an old dam.  Original wooden sections remain submerged in the water behind later concrete forms while the pre-cast concrete blocks on the top were added later still.

Prior to the arrival of Europeans, Atlantic Salmon were common in Lake Ontario and spawned in the Credit River every fall.  Due to pollution, dams, over-fishing and deforestation they were basically eliminated by the 1890’s.  In the 1960’s and 1970’s Chinook and Coho Salmon were introduced from the Pacific coast.  Chinook Solmon make their only spawning run when they are 4 years old and then die afterward.  This male Chinook has developed the characteristic hooked jaw called a kype and the darker colour of his one and only run upstream.  They can usually grow to lengths of 3 feet and weights of 25 pounds.  This specimen was caught by a young fellow named Jack who was fishing with his family.

As you walk up Mullet Creek toward Mississauga Road you come to several shelves of shale where the water cascades over the edge.  The picture below was taken just one bend in the creek prior to the cover photo which has a larger drop.  These two little water falls make an oasis in the heart of the city.

At one time a parkette stood at the corner of the creek and Mississauga Road.  The remains of the old parking area are starting to grow over but the old rail ties that outline the side and protect the trees in the middle will be around for many years to come.

Mullet Creek extends from here to north of the 407 and must contain other interesting places. Time will tell.

Maple Leaf Gardens

April 20, 2024

Maple Leaf Gardens was home to The Toronto Maple Leafs from 1931 until 1999 during which time they won the Stanley Cup 11 times. Unfortunately none of these was in the last 32 seasons they played there. Previously, The Leafs had been playing in Arena Gardens on Mutual Street which had been built in 1912. When the capacity of 7,500 people was deemed to be too small by the teams managing director Con Smythe he went looking for a site to build a more impressive arena for the team. He eventually settled on the corner of Church and Carlton Streets which he bought from The T. Eaton Company for $350,000. The map below shows the site as it existed in the 1893 Goads Fire insurance Map.

This picture was taken from the historic display board that is inside the front entrance to the facility as it stands today. It shows the building early in the construction phase.

A 12,473 seat facility was designed by the architectural firm of Ross and Macdonald. The construction contract was awarded to Port Credit company Thomson Brothers Construction. They had been the lowest of ten bidders coming in at $990,000 with an additional $100,000 for steel work. Construction began on June 1, 1931 and was completed in just 5 months and 2 weeks. Where are these people when we need a crosstown subway line built? The final cost was $1.5 million, or $25.9 million in 2021 dollars. The image below shows the building under construction and was taken from the Wikipedia article about the building.

The archive photo below shows the building in 1934 and was taken from the same display board inside the front entrance to the modern building. It shows the older homes that still remained beside the arena. These would have been on the map shown above.

The first game in Maple Leaf Gardens was played on November 12, 1931 with the Toronto Maple Leafs hosting the Chicago Blackhawks. This postcard shows the inside of the stadium on that night. Unfortunately the Leafs lost that first game 2-1 to the Blackhawks. The image below shows the opening ceremonies for the building and was taken from the Wikipedia article.

Over the years Maple Leaf Gardens played host to many events including the Ice Capades and a ton of Rock Concerts. Elvis Presley played there on April 2, 1957 and The Beatles on Sept. 7, 1964. Almost every major act played here on their way across North America. I saw my first Rush concert here in November 1982 on their “Signals” tour. It was so good that I saw them again Sept. 1984, March 1986, March 1988, May 1990, Dec. 1991, and May 1994. Rush recorded a concert video of the 1984 “Grace Under Pressure” tour in which I can be seen briefly in a crowd view during the song “The Spirit Of Radio.” These were probably the best seats I had for any concert at The Gardens. I went to at least 25 other concerts here over the years including more than one by each of Jethro Tull and Triumph. Oasis became the last concert to be held at the arena on April 29, 2000.

I also went to several games in the 1999 and 2000 Toronto Rock seasons and watched them win the National Lacrosse Championship both of those seasons. The 2000 Toronto Rock Championship game became the final professional event to be held at Maple Leaf Gardens. The Toronto Maple Leafs played their final game in The Gardens on Feb. 13, 1999 before moving to Air Canada Centre. They lost 6-2 to the Chicago Blackhawks putting loosing bookends on their 67 year run.

After the final events in Maple Leaf Gardens, the facility sat empty for almost a decade as the owners refused to sell it to anyone who might use it in competition with Air Canada Centre. The Gardens was purchased in 2004 by Loblaws for $12 million dollars under an agreement that it wouldn’t be used for sports or entertainment. In 2009 Loblaws partnered with Toronto Metropolitan University (formerly Ryerson University) to create a Loblaws grocery store and an athletic facility for the university.

The interior of the old stadium was gutted and new floors were laid for the grocery store and LCBO that went on the ground floor. A red dot was placed on the floor to indicate the original centre ice from the hockey arena. This store opened on November 30th 2011. A second floor was added and an NHL size rink was put in on the third floor along with a fitness centre. Seating for the new rink consists of 2,796 seats from the original arena. The Mattamy Athletic Centre at The Gardens opened September 9, 2012. The image below shows the rafters where the scoreboard for the NHL games used to hang above centre ice. Tons of speakers and lighting equipment were also suspended here for the various concerts that were held over the last five decades of the 20th century.

Maple Leaf Gardens stands as a monument to Toronto sports and entertainment and lives on as a Loblaws, fitness centre and university ice rink. I have a lot of fond memories of events at The Gardens but unfortunately, being in my early 60s means that I am too young to have witnessed a Stanley Cup victory there.

Perhaps this year will be the year that the Maple Leafs have a successful Stanley Cup run!

Google Maps link: Maple Leaf Gardens

Enoch Turner Schoolhouse

April 6, 2024

The oldest standing schoolhouse in Toronto was built in 1848 just five years after York changed its name to Toronto and became a city. The population of the city stood at about 25,000 and some of the poorest people lived in the St. Lawrence Ward which is seen in the map below. This image is taken from the 1884 Goads Fire Insurance Map of Toronto. Trinity School, as it was then known, is circled in green. Also featured in this story are the East Toronto Brewery (blue) and Little Trinity Church (orange).

Enoch Turner was born in Stafforshire, UK in 1792 and came to York early in the 19th century. He established a brewery in the area of Parliament and Front streets which is shown as the East Toronto Brewery in the map above. There were a lot of Irish immigrants in the area that came from County Cork in Ireland and this is the basis for the name Corktown as this neighbourhood became known. In 1846 Canada passed the “Act for the better establishment and maintenance of Common Schools in Upper Canada”. Toronto was unwilling to introduce a tax to support schools and so all schools that benefitted from public support were closed for a year following this. These were hard times for the poor in Toronto and Enoch Turner had a heart to educate the children in the area surrounding his brewery. He provided funding to build a school on land provided by Little Trinity Church.

It is thought that the school was designed in the Gothic Style at the same time as Little Trinity Church by local architect Henry Bowyer Lane. This architect also designed City Hall and St. Lawrence Market. When the school opened in 1849 there were 240 students and Enoch paid all expenses to operate it for 3 years. At the time it was known as Ward Street School. Thus it became the first free school in Toronto and spurred the development of a free school system in the province. When it was taken over by the Toronto Board of Education in 1851 it was renamed Trinity Street School.

The school only operated until 1859 when students were moved to the Palace Street School which we described in our post Canary Restaurant . The building was then turned over to Little Trinity Church who used it as a Sunday School and Parish Hall.

The side door features four highly ornate hinges, knocker and latch.

The addition on the west end of the building was completed in 1869. A second addition on the south side of the building was made in 1910. The building was used as a recruitment centre in 1899 for the Boer War. A soup kitchen was operated out of the structure during the Great Depression in the 1930s where meals were served to 1500 people each week. It was also used as a base for servicemen during both World Wars.

A fire broke out in Little Trinity Church in 1961 and the church was used as a meeting hall while repairs were made. Following this, the building fell into disrepair and was threatened with demolition.

On October 8, 1970 the Enoch Turner Schoolhouse Foundation was established to try and save the building. Extensive renovations were completed and in 1972 it was opened as a museum. In 2008 the building was turned over to the Ontario Heritage Trust. Part of the Little Trinity Church can be seen to the left in the picture below. The story of that building can be found in our post Gooderham Architecture .

The building has stood for over 175 years and can be rented for weddings and private events. More importantly it stands as a testament to one man’s vision for free education for the poor children in his community.

Related stories: Gooderham Architecture , One Room Schools , Canary Restaurant

Google Maps Link: Enoch Turner Schoolhouse

Shanty Bay Go Karts

March 16, 2024

For years we used to stop at the entertainment facility just north of Barrie on highway 11 as we made our way back home from Gravenhurst. Usually we would grab a coffee or a snack from McDonalds but this section of the highway used to be known for cheaper gasoline. Therefore, if we had seen cheaper gas on the route north we might stop on the way back home to fill up. The image below shows the site from the air and indicated the location of the Go-Kart Track, the Kids Track, The Coffee Time, McDonalds and the Shell gas station. Other blogs online suggest that the business was closed as a result of Covid restrictions. However, when you look at the historic images on Google Earth there haven’t been cars in the parking lot or on the track since 2016. Reliable information seems to be hard to come by online.

The entrance stands empty and the ticket booth has been boarded up for years now. You used to have to but tickets for individual laps and hand them to the attendant between each round on the track.

The one-kilometre long track loops around itself and speeds of kilometres per hour were advertised. A loop could be done in as little as a minute and a half and cost $5.00. Five laps could be had for $20.00. To ride the adult track you had to be at least 11 years old and 52 inches tall. There were 30 carts, some single seaters and some double. There was also a small mini track with a single cart for those too young to go on the adult track.

The rules are still posted near the gate. They also give the conditions that riders from 8-11 years old must meet. They had to be at least 48″ tall. The kids track is 1/4 kilometre long and has a maximum speed of 16 kilometers per hour. Children between 3 and 8 years old could ride for free as a passenger in a two seater adult kart. Children under three cannot ride on the tracks.

The most prominent feature on the mini golf course is the volcano. The mini golf is getting badly over-run and the carpet on the greens is falling apart.

A Coffee Time drive through used to operate on the north end of the building.

The menu sign is broken away except for one panel announcing a new treat called Maple French Sticks.

A Shell gas station used to operate at the front of the building.

There was also a McDonalds restaurant on the south end of the building for those who wanted a meal either during their stay or just a snack while stopping for gas.

It’s too bad that this facility isn’t operating anymore because over the years thousands of people enjoyed a spin around the track.

Related Stories: North Halton Kart Club

Google Maps Link: Shanty Bay Go Carts

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Uxbridge Historical Centre

Saturday, March 9, 2024

The Uxbridge Historical Centre was founded in 1972 and was created around the Quaker Hill school house. It is home to ten buildings and a large number of artifacts that combine to tell the local history of the township and the town of Uxbridge.

When Uxbridge township was opened up for settlement a lot of the early pioneers were Quakers. These members of The Society of Friends came from Pennsylvania along the newly created Yonge Street. Twelve families started to carve out a new life for themselves in 1804. Soon they started to make plans to build a Meeting House for themselves. In 1809 they built their first Meeting House out of logs and replaced it with a frame building in 1820. This was the only church in the township for nearly a generation. Meetings were held in this building until 1925 and it holds the distinction of being the oldest building in Uxbridge Township.

At the same time as they built the first Meeting House they acquired the plot across the road for a cemetery. This was the only cemetery in the area for a decade and has some early grave markers made from local granite.

The home known as the Gould-Carmody house was built in the late 1850s in the area of town that currently is home to the arena. It was built by Joseph Gould who was the first local MPP. He was very influential in the development of the town of Uxbridge. His family sold the home to William Carmody in 1914 and it was moved to its present site in 1988. The decorative bargeboard, or gingerbread, along with the finial at the peak, give the home a distinctive appearance.

The Scott Township Municipal Hall was built in 1860 and served the town council until 1967. After this time, the wood frame building was moved to the farm of Ed and Dorothy Brown and used as a Country Heritage Museum. It was moved to the Uxbridge Historical Centre in 1993. The front entrance has windows on either side which contain 12 over 12 window sashes. The door itself is modest but has pilasters on either side and a lighted transom over the top.

The United Church on site was moved from the west end of lot 16, where it stood closer to Goodwood. It was built in 1870 and dedicated on December 14th. Originally it was a Methodist Episcopal Church and was part of the Uxbridge circuit. It was known either as Forsythe’s or Russell’s Church. In the 1880s the Methodist churches recognized that they had several different types of congregations that basically held the same beliefs with minor variations. They were investing resources to compete with each other for congregants and missions funding and decided that it made sense to unify. The Primitive Methodists and the Episcopal Methodists joined together with the Wesleyan Methodists to become the Methodist Church in 1884. This building then went under the Goodwood circuit. In 1925 the Methodist, Congregationalists and some of the Presbyterian Churches joined together to create the United Church of Canada. After that, the church was known as Fifth Line United Church until it closed in 1966. It was moved to its present location in 1979.

There are many historical pieces of farming equipment that are located on the property and in the various barns and sheds.

The Hilson Shed was built in the 1800s in Uxbridge and was used as a coach house or carriage shed. It was home to the Hilson family horses, carriage and tackle until they were replaced with a family car. It has been part of the Uxbridge Heritage Centre since 1973.

The Nesbitt family drive shed was located on their farm and used by several generations of the family. It has the distinction of having been on the farm that was used for filming seven seasons of Road To Avonlea. This show was based on books that were written by Lucy Maude Montgomery who also wrote Anne of Green Gables. It was disassembled in 1981 and reassembled on the grounds of the Heritage Centre. A sawmill that was located on the same farm was moved to Black Creek Pioneer Village.

This Edwardian styled house was built in town in 1908 for George Stokes. George was a councilor, deputy reeve and later reeve. The house was later sold to George and Nellie Kydd. In 1963 Nellie became the first female mayor in Uxbridge. The house has a unique two story porch along the front and was moved to the Centre in 2002. It now houses the offices and gallery shop.

The Uxbridge Post Office Bell was donated to the town on its centennial anniversary by Bell Canada on Aug. 26, 1972. It was forged by Jim Taylor in England in 1912.

The school is the nucleus for the historical centre and is the third one to be built in Quaker Hill. The first school was built in 1817 by Quaker Ezekial James and was made out of logs. It was the first school in Uxbridge Township. It was located just a short distance south of the present school. It was replaced in the 1850s with a frame building that stood where the present driveway for the school is. The brick school was built in 1924 and served the community until 1969. The two doors were used to allow the boys and girls to have separate entrances so that the boys wouldn’t see the girls ankles when they were changing their shoes as this was considered improper.

The print shop is not an historical building as it was built on site in 1994. It was erected to house the historical printing equipment from the Uxbridge Printing Company. The large square front is known as the Boomtown Style and was used to make small buildings look bigger. It also hid the front gable and allowed the merchant to have more space to advertise their business.

The buildings are open for tours in the summer months and some of them, like the school, can be rented for functions.

Related stories: Cober Dunkard Church , Black Creek Pioneer Village , Markham Museum , Georgina Pioneer Village, Thomson Memorial Park

Google Maps Link: Uxbridge Heritage Centre

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Upper Beamer Falls

Feb. 24, 2024

John Beamer was born in Greenwich Township, New Jersey on November 27th 1759. He emigrated to Upper Canada in 1790 and took up 300 acres of land along the Niagara Escarpment near Grimsby. He passed away on February 9th. 1854 in his 94th year. A ripe old age for those days when hard, dangerous work and lack of medical attention often carried people away at much younger ages. His property included 40 Mile Creek and featured the place where it makes its decent over the escarpment. This water fall now bears his name.

The image below is taken from the 1877 County Atlas and shows the Beamer properties as related to the town of Grimsby. Beamer Falls is circled.

Elizabeth Simcoe was the wife of Upper Canada’s first Lieutenant Governor, John Graves Simcoe. She was known for her landscape paintings and the extensive diary that she kept. These combine to give some detailed insights into the area in the 1790s. Her diary entry for May 18, 1794 reads in part: “We coasted to the Forty Mile Creek forty miles from Niagara and passed in at three o’clock. The mouth of this creek forms a fine scene; a very bold spur of high land appears beautiful in the distance. It is about three miles off.” This describes the escarpment where the creek flows over forming Beamer Falls. During my visit the creek was frozen over above the falls.

Beamer Falls has a washboard formation and a drop of 45 metres. The crest is 20 metres wide.

There is a short trail along the north side of 40 Mile Creek that leads to Beamer Memorial Conservation Area. This 450 metre trail is a side trail to the Bruce Trail and is marked with blue blazes.

The area was the floor of a tropical sea that existed over 400 million years ago. Sediment accumulated and eventually created the Niagara Escarpment and the 40 Mile Creek ravine that we see today. Erosion following the last ice age, about 12,000 years ago was greatly enhanced by the flow of water created by the melting glaciers as the ice retreated. Alternating layers of dolostone and sandstone have been left and the dolostone is much more erosion resistant that the sandstone. This creates the steps that can be seen in the waterfall.

The trail follows 40 Mile Creek to an intersection with the Bruce Trail in Beamer Memorial Conservation Area. Starting in Queenston and running to Tobermory the Bruce Trail runs for over 890 kilometres. There are also over 400 kilomtres of side trails, such as this one. Many people record the sections of trail as they complete them so that they can get awarded end-to-end badges for each of the nine sections. When all sections have been completed you can get an end-to-end badge for the entire trail. I have a map and am in the process of highlighting various hikes but am nowhere near completing a section, let alone the entire trail. And, I’ve been at it for decades. But, then again, I’m all over the place when it comes to exploring.

Lake Ontario can be seen in the distance. This is the opposite view to what Elizabeth Simcoe described 230 years ago, although the forest cover is much different today than it was back then.

The falls have a moderate amount of water at this time of year but can be much more spectacular after a heavy rainfall when they carry a lot bigger flow. There’s parking off Ridge Road in two separate little lots that allow you to easily access the falls.

Beamer Memorial Conservation Area has several interconnected trails, including the Bruce Trail and will likely be the focus of a future exploration. The two closest waterfalls to visit if you are in the area are The Devil’s Punch Bowl to the north and Balls Falls to the south.

Google Maps Link: Beamer Falls

Somerset House Hotel

February 10, 2024

The Somerset House Hotel was built on the south west corner of Church and Carlton Streets in 1895. It served as a hotel for 35 years until the building was sold. The hotel was renovated in 1930 by the architectural firm of Langley and Howland and was converted into a Bank of Commerce. In 1961 the largest merger in Canadian banking history took place and the Imperial Bank of Canada and the Bank of Commerce joined to become the Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce. The CIBC branch at 436 Church Street lasted until a few years ago when it was closed and the structure’s future was in question. The building now houses a Pi Co pizza restaurant and bar. On March 15, 1974 the building was listed on the City of Toronto’s register of historic buildings.

The building was designed by Frederick Henry Herbert who lived from 1866 to 1914. He was born in Bath, England and landed in Toronto in 1887. He first apprenticed with Richard Ough but in January 1889 he set up his own firm. Herbert was responsible for many of the homes of the wealthy in Toronto over the next two decades. He made extensive use of the Queen Anne architectural style as well as the Richardsonian Romanesque. Herbert is credited with designing over 75 houses, 19 commercial buildings, 6 institutional buildings including the 3 story addition to Osgood Hall, and 24 industrial buildings during his career.

The Richardsonian Romanesque style models itself on ancient Roman architecture and Medieval structures. It makes use of solid masonry stonework and bricks. Windows and doors are wide round arches which are semi-circular and standing on columns. Windows are usually recessed into the masonry. The doorways are arched and set on the top of small columns. The Somerset House Hotel has a detailed doorway with carvings above and the name set into the lintel of the second story window.

There are many other Richardsonian Romanesque buildings remaining in the city and one of our favourites is close by at 504 Jarvis Street. That mansion can be seen in our post The Mansions of Jarvis Street . It was built in 1889 for George H. Gooderham of Gooderham and Worts whose family built The Distillery District .

The image below shows the view looking north up Church Street past the Somerset House Hotel to the former Maple Leaf Gardens.

The former Sumerset House Hotel stands across the street from Maple Leaf Gardens and the roof can be seen from the upper floor of the Gardens. I remember seeing the building many times as I went to Maple Leaf Gardens to see various concerts over the years. Rush, Triumph, Alice Cooper, Jethro Tull, Coney Hatch, Motorhead, Judas Priest, Red Rider, Payolas and Tragically Hip are just a few of the acts that brought me into the area and past the old Somerset House Hotel.

This building has so far escaped the ongoing redevelopment of the downtown core and hopefully will remain for generations to come.

Related stories: The Mansions of Jarvis Street , The Distillery District

Google Maps Link: Somerset House Hotel

Oro African Methodist Episcopal Church

Feb.3, 2024

The Oro African Methodist Episcopal Church is a National Historic Site that was designated in 2000. It is the last remaining building in an African Canadian community that was developed in Oro Township between 1830 and 1850. The idea of such a community was first proposed in 1783 by Sir Guy Carlton who was the Commander-in-Chief of British forces in North America. It was thought that integrating African Canadians into a farming community would allow them to settle into a new life in British North America. Carlton had promised freedom to slaves of the American Revolutionaries who fought on the side of the British during the American War of Independence. Many of these people also fought during the War of 1812 under Captain Runchey’s Company of Coloured Men. The 1877 County Atlas image below shows the location of the church as well as a property owned by one of the members. In an apparent act of racism, only the white settlers names are recorded on the map and so I have marked the property of George A Darkman on it as he is featured in this story as an example of the individuals that made up the church. By the time of this map, it was no longer property of the family.

Between 1819 and 1826 twenty-five black men were granted 100 acre plots of land in Oro Township by the British. Eleven of these got their grants in acknowledgement of miliary services. Of these 25 only nine of them would take up their grants and these were along a section of land on Line 1 known as Wilberforce Road. This road was named after the British Abolitionist William Wilberforce who was a politician who fought in British Parliament for the abolishment of slavery in the British Empire. Between 1829 and 1831 another 30 families moved into the community.

A one-acre parcel of land was acquired for use as a burial grounds and to build a church for the community. The church was built in 1849 out of hewn logs which were covered on the outside with clapboard about 10 years later to help keep out the wind and cold weather. By 1900 the community had declined as many of the settlers took advantage of Lincoln’s Emancipation Proclamation. This allowed former slaves to return to the USA and many of the settlers went in search of long lost family members. The British Methodist Episcopal Church declared the building abandoned in 1916 although services were continued until the 1920s.

The building fell into a state of disrepair and by 1947 it was in such poor condition that the local descendants of the original settlers feared that this piece of history would be lost. Efforts were made to restore it with further repairs being made in 1956 and again after vandalism in 1981 when two stolen dump trucks were smashed into the building leaving it seriously damaged.

One of the members of this church was simply known as George. He was born into slavery in Virginia sometime around 1769 and came to Canada prior to 1812. He was one of the soldiers who served in Captain Runchey’s Company of Coloured Men. White settlers were granted 200 acres but black ones were only given 100 acres. George petitioned for a land grant based on his service in the War of 1812 and was granted Lot 15 on concession 2 in Oro Township. In order to receive the land patent it was required that he have a full name and so displaying a sense of humour, he chose George A. Darkman. George left his property to his wife and two children who still lived in the USA and his will is recorded as being the first will to be probated in Oro Township. The will stated that his family had to come to the property within five years and sadly they never made it. Perhaps they were still enslaved themselves. The provision was made that if they didn’t come it would go to a white friend of George, and this is what transpired.

The church was declared a National Historic Site in 2000 but was still left to slowly deteriorate yet again. A cultural heritage assessment was conducted in 2013 and a preservation plan was put into place in 2015. The floor needed to be stabilized and the ceiling joists were reinforced. New cedar shingles were put on the roof and some of the clapboard was replaced. One of the most interesting discoveries during this restoration project was the fingerprint of one of the original settlers which was preserved in the plaster chinking between the logs.

An unmarked graveyard lies in the south part of the property and a cairn was added in 1947 to identify the names of 24 families buried there. 

This church is perhaps the oldest surviving log church from a black congregation in North America and it is fortunate that it has been preserved to help maintain the memory of this important chapter in our shared history. For further reading on early black settlers, see our feature on Griffin House . Also, enjoy our story about Turner Chapel , another African Methodist Episcopal Church. 

Related Stories: Griffin House , Turner Chapel

Google Maps link: Oro African Methodist Episcopal Church

Erindale – Ghost Towns of the GTA

January 27, 2024

Erindale isn’t a ghost town in the traditional sense because it is now part of the larger city of Mississauga. However the older homes that remain scattered through the area provide a ghost of the town that once was. Over the years we have written eight other blogs which focus on various aspects of the local history of Erindale and links to all of these can be found at the end of this post.

Erindale began in 1825 and was originally known as Toronto. It went through several name changes being known as Credit, then Springfield and finally Springfield-on-the-Credit. In 1900 it took the name of Erindale after a local estate owned by Reverend James Magrath. The town was a major stop on the journey along Dundas Street between Hamilton and York (Toronto). It started to decline after 1855 when the railway bypassed it but saw a revival in 1879 when the Credit Valley Railway built a station nearby. A fire in 1919 destroyed much of the town but several buildings were rebuilt.

The Grange was built sometime around 1828 for Sir John Beverly Robinson who was the first Chief Justice of Upper Canada.  He was also considered to be the leader of the Family Compact which controlled the government leading to The rebellion of 1837.  The  regency styled  house with it’s ornate windows was indicative of the status of it’s owner.  Robinson only owned the house until 1833 when it began a rapid change of ownership until around 1910 having seen up to ten owners during this time. Then the Adamson family took up residence here and they stayed until 1973. Sometime during the Adamson years the outside of the home was given an exterior layer, or veneer, of brick from the local Cooksville Brickyards.  The building was given to the city of Mississauga by the land developers and used by the Boy Scouts until 2004.  It has now had it’s bricks removed and been fully restored to it’s original splendor.  The Heritage Resource Centre of Heritage Mississauga is now the occupant of this home.

It is generally believed that the house below is the oldest surviving building in the main area of the village. It was likely built between 1835 and 1845 by a local miller named Ira Van Valkenburgh. It may also have been built by the local carpenter named John Blair. Tradition has it that a store was once located in the house.

The Anglican Rectory was built in 1861 on the site of a former inn that had burned down. The Georgian Style manse was sold in 1960 and converted to commercial uses.

The Royal Exchange Hotel was built sometime between 1819 and 1822, although some sources say 1828, and was once known as the Halfway House. The hotel may have been 100 years old in May of 1919 when it was destroyed by the village fire and never replaced.

In 1877 the Methodist congregation commissioned a new church building as they had been meeting in the room above the Royal Exchange Hotel. The adherents felt that they should no longer meet above a building where alcohol was being sold. Somewhere around 1921 the church lost its spire and in 1925 it became the United Church. When a new building was consecrated in 1964 the building was sold to a Presbyterian congregation. This is ironic as the Presbyterians had rejected a merger with the Congregationalists and the Methodists that saw the creation of the United Church. Local residents each donated $100 and the spire was replaced in 2010.

Emmerson Taylor was the owner of the Royal Exchange Hotel and also owned a saw mill, knitting mill and a fanning mill. This last structure produced furniture and grandfather clocks. He donated the land for the Methodist Church and had this house built around 1875 to 1878. The transom over the front door identifies the home as the Froebel House.

St. Peter’s Church history begins as a home church in 1825 in the home of Colonel Peter Adamson. Construction of a white frame church began in 1826 and it was consecrated in 1828. This building lasted until 1887 when it was torn down and replaced with the present stone church. The church tower was added in 1910. A basement was hewn out under the church in 1934 to be used for the church school.

Erindale Park has a long history and at one time was known as Erindale Lake. In 1902 Erindale Light and Power Company was formed to construct an hydro electric generating plant on the Credit River at Erindale.  This large scale engineering project ran into several delays during construction and didn’t begin producing power until 1910.  A dam was constructed across the valley flooding it and creating the 125 acre Lake Erindale.  A power generating plant was built on the south end of town at the bottom of Proudfoot Street.  A tunnel was constructed to connect the two.  The power plant operated from 1910 until 1923 supplying power to Erindale and New Toronto. It was closed when Ontario Hydro began to supply the area with power from Niagara Falls.  In 1941 the lake was drained and the dam was blown up.  Between 1961 and 1965 the former lake bottom was used as a sanitary landfill.  It has since been covered over with clean soil and Erindale Park has been created.

Erindale was served by School Section #4 and has had several buildings over the years. The bell from the 1872 school has been preserved and is now housed in the 1922 replacement building. This beautiful structure was built in the Colonial Revival and Neo-Classical style of architecture. It became the Springbank Community Centre in 1957 and is now part of the University of Toronto Mississauga.

In 1919 a fire destroyed several of the older buildings on the core of the town including the Parish Hall, Post Office and the Royal Exchange Hotel. A new community Hall was constructed and has operated under a board of directors for almost 100 years. It can still be rented for private functions.

The historical community of Erindale can still be experienced via a walking tour. Heritage Mississauga has provided the details for one and a brochure can be accessed at this link: Erindale Tour . There’s a considerable amount of history in this area and you can read more in the various stories listed below.

Related stories: Winding Lane Bird Sanctuary , J. H. Pinchin Apple And Turkey Farms , Erindale Hydro Electric Dam , Erindale Powerhouse,   UTM Nature Trail , Ghastly Tales Of Sawmill Valley Creek , Erindale Orchards , Credit River At Erindale

Google Maps Link: Erindale

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Time to level up your local game with narcity pro., 9 cities outside of toronto to move to if you're tired of the hustle & bustle of the city.

Reimagine finding your dream home.

Though the bright lights and energy of Toronto make the city an exciting place to live, its hustle and bustle isn't for everyone.

If you're looking for a change of pace, there are plenty of charming, tranquil and cozy areas in the GTA that are perfect for those ready to say goodbye to the 6ix.

As people look further afield for their dream homes, communities outside of Toronto are seeing a 20-year spike in sold homes, according to data collected by Properly — a modern real estate company that's transforming the home buying and selling process.

From the idyllic farmland of King to lakeside living in Clarington, these are the nine cities outside of Toronto that saw the most movement in the last year of the pandemic.

After all, getting familiar with the area you're moving to matters as much as knowing what you want your next house to look like.

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Georgina is described as a "community of communities," each of which brings something special to the area — from the historic streets of Pefferlaw to "Ontario's first cottage country," Jackson’s Point .

Situated on the southwestern shore of Lake Simcoe, Georgina also boasts sprawling beaches, year-round conservation areas and excellent main street festivals.

According to Properly , 1,236 homes were sold in Georgina in the last year — which is pretty huge for a community of under 50,000 people.

If you're itching for that lakeside life and want to avoid the usual headaches of moving, you can buy before you sell with Properly . That means you can get settled in your dream home now, and list your current one later (with water views and an aperitif in hand).

Historically known as the "Flower Town of Canada," Brampton has become one of Canada's fastest-growing cities. Properly reports that 11,515 homes changed hands during the last year of the pandemic; that’s roughly 10.98% of all Brampton residential properties sold in the last 20 years.

It's easy to see why people want to live here too. With more than 700,000 residents (who’re 36.5 years old on average), Brampton offers new home buyers an ideal blend of exciting city life and relaxed suburban charm.

Living somewhere slightly larger has its perks as well. Brampton hosts plenty of events and festivals every year, and the city has over 9,000 acres of parkland to explore.

Nestled in a landscape of rolling hills and farmland, the township of King has that small-town feel while still being convenient for anyone who has to go into Toronto for work.

Commuters can take advantage of the GO Transit station, and Seneca College students can study at the school's King campus.

In fact, the township is so charming that 552 homebuyers decided this was the place for them last year, according to Properly ’s data.

Weekends in King can be spent exploring Cold Creek Conservation Area , making friends with the local horses or treating yourself to some fine dining (many ingredients are grown locally at Holland Marsh).

It makes sense that 2,894 homes were sold in Milton last year alone. Known as the "Place of Possibility," this quaint community’s top schools and high safety rankings make it an attractive location for new families.

Milton’s historic and vibrant downtown area is great to shop, dine and do business, while the rest of the town provides easy access to stunning nature parks and trails .

If you're considering selling your home and making the move to Milton , check out Properly's free Instant Estimate tool to find out the value of your current place and make an informed choice.

Located on Lake Ontario and surrounded by rolling farmlands and scenic trails, Clarington is the real deal when it comes to idyllic GTA living.

According to Properly , there has been a spike in properties being bought in Clarington. Of all the homes sold there in the last 20 years, 11.93% of them changed hands in the last year of the pandemic.

Active people will love how many opportunities there are in Clarington to get out and about. There are 70 parks to choose from, including splash pads and skate parks, plus 30 kilometres of waterfront trails with parks and beaches along the way.

The charming area of Burlington is located close enough to Toronto's centre to benefit from the fun, but far enough away to get a good price on a home. And last year, according to Properly , 3,400 homeowners agreed.

Burlington’s GO Transit station makes wine-country trips to Niagara Falls a breeze, while local lakefront festivals create a lively scene come summertime.

Among the 13 unique neighbourhoods , there's sure to be a home you'll fall in love with. And with Properly, you can buy before you sell so you don't have to wait until the closing date of your old house to begin living that Burlington life.

Located on Lake Simcoe, 90 minutes northeast of Toronto, the Township of Brock is small but has lots of heart. With three urban centres, quaint hamlets and stunning countryside views, Brock is perfect for those who really want to stretch their legs after living in Toronto.

To give you an idea of how different from the big city this area could possibly be, 311 homes in Brock were bought last year, according to Properly — which still works out to 12.84% of all properties sold in the last 20 years.

If you’re ready to move closer to Canada’s largest sunflower-shaped trail (made with over 400,000 sunflowers), Properly can help you buy your dream home now and sell your old home later .

Oshawa is gaining popularity with home buyers who’re looking for a city-away-from-the-city type of place to settle down in.

Properly reported that last year 4,331 homes were bought in this Durham region urban centre, which also has farmers markets and parklands galore.

East Gwillimbury

Located in York Region, East Gwillimbury is 70% farms, forests and recreational areas, making it one of the leafiest areas in the GTA.

It also topped Properly’s list of municipalities that saw the most movement in the last year of the pandemic. Around 14.11% of all homes bought East Gwillimbury over the past 20 years were sold in 2021 alone.

Because most of East Gwillimbury is within the protected Oak Ridges Moraine , it’s an ideal spot for anyone who loves being close to nature and also having easy access to the city. The town is only a short drive away from Upper Canada Mall , and it has its own GO Transit station.

The real estate market is always changing, and having transparent realtors that navigate buying and selling with a fresh, modern approach is key.

With Properly, you can leverage the equity in your current home to buy before you sell with Sale Assurance , and their free Instant Estimate tool gives you data-driven insights into the real market value of your home.

From Brock’s full-time country life to Georgina’s lazy lakeside living or the milder city vibes of Burlington, the GTA has plenty of communities where you can get a break from the hustle and bustle of Toronto.

When you're ready to move, Properly ’s expert agents will help you buy your dream home and move in without the pressure of selling your place first.

After that, all that’s left for you to do is put your feet up and embrace the joy of living your new life in the leafy beauty of the GTA.

To find out more about buying and selling your home with Properly, visit their website or follow them on Facebook , Instagram , Twitter and YouTube .

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10 Charming Small Towns Near Toronto That You Can Get To In Under 1 Hour

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30 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Toronto

Written by Lana Law and Michael Law Updated Dec 23, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Author s Michael and Lana Law live in southern Ontario and enjoy frequent trips into Toronto for dining, shopping, and events.

Toronto, the capital of Ontario , is the largest city in Canada and also one of the most diverse. It's home to a dynamic mix of tourist attractions and memorable places to visit, from museums and galleries to the world-famous CN Tower. And, just a short drive away, is Niagara Falls .

You'll find no shortage of things to do, from the vibrant Entertainment District , featuring the latest musicals and fine dining, to the historic Distillery District , home to unique shops and restaurants set in incredibly restored buildings.

Toronto city center is relatively easy to navigate, with many of the top attractions within walking distance of each other, and a subway system to cover longer distances.

If you are visiting Toronto in winter, head indoors to explore the extensive PATH network of underground walkways that connect shopping, entertainment, and attractions. In summer, wander along the beautiful waterfront and enjoy Toronto's best beaches and parks .

For a complete look at how to spend your time and find interesting places to visit, see our list of top tourist attractions in Toronto.

1. The CN Tower

2. visit the royal ontario museum (rom), 3. ripley's aquarium of canada, 4. art gallery of ontario (ago), 5. day trip to niagara falls, 6. catch a show or dine in the entertainment district, 7. see the animals at the toronto zoo, 8. wander through st. lawrence market, 9. dine and shop in the distillery district, 10. tour casa loma, 11. city hall & nathan philips square, 12. shop at cf toronto eaton center, 13. watch the action at yonge dundas square, 14. see the stars at the toronto international film festival (tiff), 15. stroll through kensington market, 16. visit the aga khan museum, 17. enjoy nature at high park, 18. take a trip to toronto islands, 19. ontario science centre, 20. little italy, 21. head to the danforth for a taste of greece, 22. bata shoe museum, 23. harbourfront centre and toronto's waterfront, 24. black creek pioneer village, 25. hockey hall of fame, 26. graffiti alley, 27. rogers centre, 28. visit the cne, 29. go fishing, 30. winterlicious, where to stay in toronto for sightseeing, tips and tours: how to make the most of your visit to toronto, toronto, canada - climate chart, map of top-rated tourist attractions in toronto.

Highlights : Incredible views over Lake Ontario and the city; high-elevation dining; and a chance to walk outside, 365 meters above the ground.

Toronto's famous landmark, the 553-meter CN Tower , is one of Ontario's must-see attractions and also the most impossible to miss. Towering above the downtown, this Canadian icon can be seen from almost everywhere in the city.

You have the option of simply appreciating the building from the ground, or taking a trip up to one of the observation areas or restaurants for fabulous views over the city and Lake Ontario. The CN Tower, built between 1972 and 1976, was once the tallest freestanding structure in the world, but has long since been surpassed.

The highest viewing area on the CN Tower is from the Sky Pod at 447 meters above the city, with views that, on clear days, extend to Niagara Falls and New York State. Getting here requires taking two elevators.

Below this, at the top of the main elevator is the LookOut level at 346 meters, with floor-to-ceiling windows and the new Glass Floor , which looks down to the original Glass Floor, one floor below, where the Outdoor Sky Terrace is located. As the name suggests, the Glass Floor offers a bird's-eye view directly down over the city.

For those looking for a little more adventure, or perhaps a lot more adventure, there is the " Edge Walk. " This involves a hands-free walk on a 1.5-meter-wide ledge around the outside edge of the main pod, at an elevation of 365 meters. Participants are attached to a safety harness and rope.

Located at 351 meters is the revolving 360 Restaurant , featuring fine dining and some of the best views from a table anywhere in Toronto. 360 is open for lunch and dinner, and visitors who dine here also receive complimentary access to the LookOut and Glass Floor levels of the tower.

Basing yourself in the city center, preferably near the CN Tower, is the best option for exploring Toronto.

Address: 301 Front Street West, Toronto, Ontario

Highlights : Exceptional collections of art, culture, nature, and science in Canada's largest museum.

The Royal Ontario Museum , known as the ROM, is one of Canada's premier museums and one of the top tourist attractions in Ontario , with an international reputation for excellence.

It houses an outstanding collection, which covers natural history, art, and culture from a great variety of periods from all over the world. It is also well-known for featuring exhibitions from across the globe .

A controversial expansion in 2007 saw the addition of the Michael Lee-Chin Crystal , a modern wing featuring glass and sharp angles, added on to a very traditional older building. It's now one of Toronto's most recognizable buildings.

Address: 100 Queen's Park, Toronto, Ontario

Highlights : Home to over 20,000 marine mammals and an incredible underwater tunnel.

One of Toronto's newest top attractions is the Ripley's Aquarium of Canada near the base of the CN Tower . This fabulous facility displays all kinds of marine life and is one of the most popular things to do in Toronto for families.

The most impressive feature is the huge underwater tunnel with a moving sidewalk. You can watch the ocean world go by all around you as sharks glide past and sawfish linger on the tunnel roof above. This is a truly serene experience for all ages.

Another unexpected highlight is the jellyfish display, accented with creative lighting. Further on, touch tanks with stingrays and small sharks allow for a hands-on experience. And, for the engineering-minded, the building's open concept also allows for a look at the Life Support System and filtration equipment operating the facility.

Address: 288 Bremner Boulevard, Toronto, Ontario

Highlights : A huge collection of incredible art with a Canadian focus, along with treasured pieces from around the world.

The renowned Art Gallery of Ontario (AGO) is one of the largest museums in North America .

The collection of more than 95,000 pieces includes works from around the world, from European masterpieces to contemporary art, but also holds an impressive collection of Canadian Art, including a vast collection of works by the Group of Seven. A series of temporary exhibitions are mounted throughout the year.

The AGO occupies a unique-looking building, with a mix of older and modern architecture, on the west side of the city center. Next to the AGO is the hard-to-miss Ontario College of Art and Design, standing high above the street on stilts designed to look like pencils.

Address: 317 Dundas Street West, Toronto, Ontario

Highlights : An easy day trip to one of the world's greatest natural wonders.

If you have never been, a quick day trip from Toronto to Niagara Falls is well worth the time. You can be standing on the edge of the falls in just over an hour.

A tour to Niagara Falls from Toronto is an easy way to see the falls if you don't want to drive yourself. Tours offer hotel pickup and drop-off and include a Niagara Cruise, which takes you up close to the wall of water tumbling that is the main Horseshoe Falls.

Tours also stop at some of the key sites in the area, including Whirlpool Rapids, the Floral Clock, and the beautiful little town of Niagara-on-the-Lake.

Getting from Toronto to Niagara Falls is easier than you might think, with several different options available. A train (Go Train) runs to Niagara Falls from Union Station in summer, from late June to the start of September, as well as the Thanksgiving weekend in October. On weekends you can even take your bike on the train, and enjoy a bike ride along the Niagara Parkway.

If you have enough time, you may also want to consider spending the night at Niagara Falls to explore the downtown area and see the falls lit up at night.

Highlights : One of Toronto's top areas to see the latest shows, grab a meal, or go to a hockey or baseball game.

The Entertainment District in Toronto covers a large area of the city center and includes many of the city's top attractions, like the CN Tower , Scotiabank Arena , Rogers Centre , and many museums.

It's also known for fantastic dining , and most importantly, shows and performances. Most of the action is centered around King Street , between Spadina Avenue and University Avenue.

Toronto's answer to New York's Broadway, the Entertainment District comes to life in the evenings and is a great place for nightlife. This is the place to see major theater productions, including musicals, concerts, and other performing arts.

Some of the most prominent venues in this area are Roy Thomson Hall , home to the Toronto Symphony Orchestra, and the Royal Alexandra Theatre , which hosts the most current musicals.

Highlights : Canada's largest zoo, daily shows in the summer, and 10 kilometers of walking trails.

The Toronto Zoo has an outstanding and diverse collection, with approximately 5,000 animals. Some of the favorites include pygmy hippos, lions, tigers, giraffes, penguins, orangutans, and many more. The zoo is divided into several sections, each representing a major region of the globe.

Some of the other highlights at the Toronto Zoo include the Gorilla Rainforest; the Tundra Trek, featuring polar bears; and the Great Barrier Reef.

The Discovery Zone is a popular area with families, and during the summer months, a splash pad offers fun in the sun.

The zoo lies on the Rouge River about 40 kilometers northeast of the city center.

Address: 361A Old Finch Road, Toronto, Ontario

Highlights : Toronto's freshest meats, cheeses, and vegetable stands, all housed in a historical building from 1845.

The St. Lawrence Market houses a variety of vendors selling various food products, flowers, and specialty items. The St. Lawrence Hall was built in Toronto in 1850 and served as a public meeting place and a concert venue.

If you've been shopping or touring nearby, this is an excellent spot to stop in for a bite to eat or to relax with friends over a cup of coffee. In the summer, outdoor patios on elevated spaces allow you to soak up some of the warm sunshine.

The hall was restored in 1967 but has retained much of its old charm. The building provides a unique atmosphere for the market and is also occasionally used for film and television shoots. The interior features a grand staircase and a gas-lit chandelier.

Once you leave St. Lawrence Market, head north (away from the lake) up to Front Street and then head west for a block and a half to check out the architecturally stunning Gooderham building at Church Street. This building framed in front of the towers of downtown Toronto is an iconic picture of the city.

Address: 92 Front Street East, Toronto, Ontario

Highlights : Historical buildings, trendy restaurants, galleries, and shops, and home to Toronto's best Christmas market.

Toronto's Distillery District is a restored historic area, which has been transformed into a trendy entertainment and shopping district. Charming boutiques, galleries, artists' studios, and restaurants fill the old buildings. This is an interesting place to come during the day or evening and any time of year.

A variety of entertainment events are held here, but one of the most well-known is the annual Toronto Christmas Market . Wooden stalls all decorated for Christmas sell unique gifts; a huge Christmas tree stands in an open square; and cozy outdoor areas are set up, often with couches and large fire pits to gather around.

Restaurants offer outdoor dining despite the cold, with heat lamps and lap blankets. Hot chocolate is always readily available at this time of year.

Highlights : A turn-of-the-century Gothic castle with over 100 rooms, a secret tunnel, and gorgeous gardens with views of Toronto.

Standing in beautifully kept grounds, Casa Loma is an extraordinary building somewhat reminiscent of a medieval castle. It was originally constructed in 1914 for Sir Henry Pellatt, an eccentric Canadian multi-millionaire who was among the first to recognize and exploit the money-making potential of Niagara Falls .

With close to 100 rooms, including three dozen bathrooms, the house is now a museum. Visitors can take a look back in time to a period of European elegance and splendor. Canada's foremost castle is complete with decorated suites, secret passages, an 800-foot tunnel, towers, stables, and five acres of estate gardens .

Address: 1 Austin Terrace, Toronto, Ontario

Highlights : Unique architecture, summer concerts, a winter skating rink, and the city's famous Toronto sign.

Dominating the spacious Nathan Philips Square with its bronze sculpture, The Archer , by Henry Moore, is the still highly acclaimed new City Hall .

It was designed by the gifted Finnish architect Viljo Revell and built in 1965. City Hall consists of two arc-shaped high-rise blocks, 20 and 27 stories high respectively, wrapped around a lower central building topped by a flattened cupola.

In the square in front of City Hall is a man-made pond, which becomes a popular skating rink in winter and is where the often photographed Toronto sign is located. This is a beautiful area to visit in December, particularly at night, when it's decorated for the Christmas holidays.

Address: 100 Queen Street West, Toronto, Ontario

Highlights : Downtown Toronto's best mall, home to all the top retailers, plus a good food court.

The huge CF Toronto Eaton Center mall is located at the north end of the Central Business District. With its own subway station, this ultra-modern shopping complex extends over several blocks and is continually being renovated and enlarged.

Strangers can quite easily lose their way in the bewildering maze of department stores, specialty shops, boutiques, restaurants, cafeterias, and snack bars, which crowd the different levels above and below ground.

Eaton Center is connected to the Hudson Bay store via a skywalk and is also a stop on Toronto's subway system.

Address: 220 Yonge Street, Toronto, Ontario

Highlights : A fun gathering place with huge digital billboards reminiscent of Times Square in New York.

This neon-lit public space is fashioned after New York's Times Square and is a popular gathering spot for Torontonians. The area is complete with seating areas, dancing fountains , and a stage where concerts take place in the summer.

Yonge Dundas Square is best enjoyed in the evening when the flashing neon signs come to life and the place develops a fun vibe. It is by far the best place in the city for people-watching . The surrounding streets are packed with restaurants , many of which have patios.

The square is accessible via Toronto's subway system, or you can park in the large underground parking lot directly beneath the square.

Address: 1 Dundas Street E, Toronto, Ontario

Highlights : Celebrity spotting and an incredible roster of first-run movies.

One of the highlights on Toronto's annual events calendar is the Toronto International Film Festival . Held each year in early September, this world-famous festival attracts some of the most famous names in film.

You can see a movie or simply hang around and hope to catch a glimpse of someone famous walking by. The weather in Toronto this time of year is still hot. Dining outside in the evening and relaxing on an outdoor patio is a major pastime, as limos drive by and photographers and press are out in full force.

The vibe in Toronto for this eleven-day event is electric. Throngs of people descend on the city. If you want to visit Toronto this time of year, book a hotel well in advance.

Highlights : Eclectic and unusual shops along with restaurants serving authentic international fare.

Kensington Market is an area of Toronto with a bohemian and multicultural feel.

On a typical summer's day, the smell of incense wafts through the air; music from a street-side musician can be heard; and the numerous retailers, who mostly operate out of old two-story brick homes, set up their goods on designated areas of their deck-covered lawns or on the sidewalks. This is a fantastic area for a stroll.

The shops, many of which display colorful murals and street art, sell everything from Tibetan blankets to jewelry, bags, purses, and vintage clothing, and there are even a couple of cheese shops.

Restaurants and coffee shops here offer a multicultural festival of choices that include Jamaican, Mexican, Tibetan, or more basic options like pizza or smoothies. You can also find natural food stores, tattoo shops, and fruit and vegetable stands.

Highlights : A priceless collection of Islamic Art in an architecturally stunning building.

The Aga Khan Museum is one of the best institutions devoted to Islamic Arts in North America. It is housed in a spectacular light-filled modern building with beautiful, peaceful surroundings consisting of large reflecting pools.

The permanent collection was first started in the 1950s by the late Prince Sadruddin Aga Khan and the Princess Catharine Aga Khan. You'll see spectacular items, including manuscripts, ceramics, and textiles, with pieces dating from the 9th right through to the 19th century. The items have been sourced across a wide geographic area from China to Spain.

In addition to the permanent collection, visiting exhibitions are showcased on the museum's second floor.

The museum's restaurant is one of Toronto's top dining destinations .

Address: 77 Wynford Drive, Toronto, Ontario

Highlights : Walking trails, ponds, sports facilities, a pool, a zoo, and beautiful gardens.

High Park is a huge green space with sunken gardens, hanging basket gardens, nature trails, natural ponds, and streams, easily ranking as one of the best parks in Toronto .

This 165-acre country property, originally owned by the Howards, was deeded to the City of Toronto in 1873. This deed came with the stipulation that the park was to remain "for the free use, benefit and enjoyment of the citizens of Toronto and it be called High Park."

Park Attractions: Within the park is the High Park Zoo , home to a number of animals, including bison; reindeer; llamas; wallabies; and Toronto's famous Capybara's, Bonnie and Clyde, who escaped from their enclosure and quickly rose to fame, developing their own social media platforms in 2016.

Other things to do and areas of interest in the park include swimming and wading pools, playgrounds, picnic areas, and a scenic train tour. The grounds also include 19th-century recreated gardens, a Coach House, and the Howards' Tomb.

For a week or 10 days in the spring, the sakura cherry trees burst into bloom and herald the start of warmer weather. This colorful spectacle is beloved by the citizens of Toronto, and it always attracts big crowds. The best place to see the trees is near the duck pond.

Annually, the Canadian Stage Company puts on a performance at the open-air theater in the park during the months of July and August, known as "Shakespeare in High Park."

Address: 1873 Bloor Street W, Toronto, Ontario

Highlights : Toronto's best beaches, an amusement park for kids, a boardwalk, and a pier.

The ferry trip from Queen's Quay Terminal to the Toronto Islands, about a kilometer offshore, is the prelude to a thoroughly enjoyable outing.

Things to Do: There are lovely walks on the islands, as well as the opportunity for rowing, sailing, swimming, and other outdoor activities.

In summer, the Toronto Islands are the venue for numerous open-air events. In favorable weather, you'll be treated to a stunning view of the Toronto skyline from the ferry terminal on Ward's Island.

If it's hot during your visit—and don't be fooled, it does get hot in Toronto in the summer—the Toronto Islands are home to some of Toronto's best beaches.

They stretch for kilometers along the offshore islands, and the views from the beaches, along with the golden sands and crystal-clear waters, may have you thinking you are in the Caribbean. That is, until you step into the chilly waters of Lake Ontario and are instantly transported back to reality!

The Centreville Amusement Park is located on Centre Island , one of the Toronto Islands, and features a variety of children's rides.

The Toronto Islands Ferry Service runs from Queen's Quay and travels to each of the main Toronto Islands, and tickets can be purchased in advance online .

Highlights : An IMAX OMNIMAX Dome theater and fascinating interactive displays for all ages.

The Ontario Science Center is a family-oriented attraction with many interesting exhibits to entertain children. It occupies a site overlooking the Don Valley, about 10 kilometers northeast of the city center.

Designed by the virtuoso architect Raymond Moriyama, this modern building was completed in 1969. The emphasis is very much on visitor participation, with 12 permanent exhibitions, a planetarium, and an IMAX OMNIMAX Dome theater .

Visitors to the center are brought face to face with the latest developments in technology, telecommunications, optics, biology, physics, space travel and meteorology, and much more, all presented in an absorbing and imaginative way.

Address: 770 Don Mills Road, Toronto, Ontario

Highlights : Bustling summer patios, authentic Italian food stores, and a popular annual festival.

Toronto's multicultural mix makes it one of the most livable cities in North America . People from around the world have settled here to make this world-class city their home, and with them, they've brought the best of the old country.

Throughout the city, you'll find a number of ethnic enclaves. One of the more popular is Little Italy. Located roughly in the square lined by Dundas and Harbord Streets and Ossington and Bathurst Avenues, the main retail area of Little Italy exists along Collect Street.

This lively area hums with people strolling up and down the wide sidewalks, past Italian restaurants with popular patios (especially during a European soccer game). As you stroll along, keep an eye out for the statues of famous Italian Canadians along the Italian Walk of Fame.

Little Italy is also a good spot to buy imported food and cooking supplies direct from Italy.

Highlights : Toronto's best collection of Greek restaurants and food stores.

Another one of Toronto's famous ethnic enclaves, The Danforth, or as it's also known, Greektown , is the place to go for a taste of Greece. Running along Danforth Avenue from Chester Avenue through to Dewhurst Boulevard, the area has long been associated with the Greek diaspora.

Take a stroll along Danforth Avenue, and pop into any one of the restaurants, shops, and other retail outlets along the way. Some of the city's best Greek food can be found here. Grab a spot on a patio or, if the weather is cool, step inside and be transported to the warmth of the Greek Islands.

The area is home to the famous and well-loved Taste of the Danforth . Hopefully, you'll find yourself here in mid-August when, for a couple of days, the area becomes a giant outdoor restaurant.

Highlights : The largest collection of shoes in the world, including ones worn by celebrities.

Only 50 percent of the human race understands the need for a shoe museum. Those of the feminine persuasion (in case you hadn't figured it out!), will absolutely love the Bata Shoe Museum and its incredible displays of shoes and over 14,000 other artifacts.

All these and more are part of the world's largest collection of footwear-related items , tracing back over 4,500 years.

The museum has some very unique shoes worn by Indigenous people, 16th-century Italians, and of course, celebrities. The celebrity collection includes Elvis' blue patent loafers, Robert Redford's cowboy boots, Elton John's silver platform boots complete with a monogram, and Queen Victoria's ballroom slippers.

Of particular note for Canadians are Terry Fox's singular running shoe and Karen Kain's ballet slippers.

Address: 327 Bloor Street West, Toronto, Ontario

Highlights : Walking trails along the waterfront, views of the Toronto Islands, an ice rink in the winter.

Toronto, like many other cities along the Great Lakes, has done a good job of making its former industrial waterfront areas accessible to its inhabitants.

Harbourfront Centre itself is a performance venue that provides artistic programming all year long at its 10-acre waterfront campus. Indoor and outdoor stages showcase some of the city's most innovative performances.

The area surrounding Harbourfront is one of the most popular places to access Toronto's waterfront. Wide and scenic walking trails along the seawall extend east and west and are backed by restaurants and shops. Many of Toronto's lake cruises leave from this area. The area surrounding Harbourfront is one of the most popular places to access Toronto's waterfront. Wide and scenic walking trails along the seawall extend east and west and are backed by restaurants and shops. Many of Toronto's lake cruises leave from this area.

Come winter, the area doesn't hibernate, in fact, it remains quite lively, with one of Toronto's most scenic and popular ice-skating rinks .

Address: 235 Queens Quay W, Toronto, Ontario

Highlights : A recreated village from 1860, costumed interpreters, and a petting zoo.

One of the most popular things to do as a family in Toronto is to step back in time at the Black Creek Pioneer Village . As you walk through the gates, you'll be transported to village life in the 1860s.

It's not just historical buildings, of which you'll find over 40, costumed interpreters go through their daily routine of living life 160 years ago. Kids and grown-ups alike will enjoy interacting with these fun and friendly characters from the past.

In addition to the human participants, animals also get to play their part, too. Over 70 animals live here, and in many cases are happy for a pet or two.

Address: 1000 Murray Ross Parkway, Toronto, Ontario

Highlights : Home to the original Stanley Cup, a replica Montreal Canadiens dressing room, and interactive exhibits.

For hockey fans, a trip to the Hockey Hall of Fame in downtown Toronto is a necessity. This is the place to learn about the all-time hockey greats: the players, the teams, and the games.

It also offers a chance to see the original 1893 Stanley Cup, along with a collection of important memorabilia, and an interactive display allows you to test your own hockey skills.

Be sure to step inside an exact replica of the Montreal Canadiens' dressing room from the Montreal Forum, view a display of 90 painted goalie masks, and check out the incredible collection of hockey cards.

Address: Brookfield Place, 30 Yonge Street, Toronto, Ontario

Highlight : Colorful artwork along the walls of a narrow laneway.

This long alley in Toronto will look familiar to Canadians who have watched the long-running TV comedy series, Rick Mercer Report . This is where he filmed his controversial news rants.

Even if you have never seen this show, this is an incredible area that seems to go on forever. Tourists love coming here, posing in painted doorways and windows, and taking selfies day and night.

Graffiti Alley runs parallel to, and between, Queens Street West and Richmond Street West from Spadina Avenue to Portland Street.

Highlight : A retractable roof allows for the sun and fresh air to flood in during summer baseball games.

Immediately adjacent to the CN Tower is Rogers Centre , a massive domed sports arena and home to the Toronto Blue Jays (MLB). The unique design includes a retractable roof, which slides back, allowing it to be opened in favorable weather.

This mega-structure was completed in 1989 and can accommodate tens of thousands of spectators and is also used as a venue for other major events, including concerts. The center also offers one-hour guided tours with a behind-the-scenes look at the facility.

Attached to Rogers Centre is the Toronto Marriott City Centre Hotel , with rooms that look out over the field. If you are in town to see a game, staying here is an extremely convenient option and a bit of a unique experience.

Address: 1 Blue Jays Way, Toronto, Ontario

Highlights : Carnival rides, unique foods, midway games, concerts, and an airshow.

When mid to late August rolls around, kids (and some adults) get a bit twitchy in anticipation of the CNE rolling into town. The CNE, also known as the Canadian National Exhibition , is a two-week carnival of craziness that sets up on Toronto's waterfront.

Midway rides, arcade games, and popular musical acts are all part of the heady mix in the hot, humid August weather. In addition to the rides and entertainment, an airshow featuring the Canadian snowbirds, along with other historical planes, also takes place during the same timeframe.

It's not all about entertainment. The CNE is also renowned for its unique fried food offerings . Starting, and still continuing today, Tiny Tom Donuts started the trend that has now evolved (or not, depending on your perspective) to deep-fried butter, deep-fried Red Velvet Oreos, deep-fried corn dogs complete with a pickle, and most recently, deep-fried cheese curds.

Highlights : Easily accessible fishing spots along the shore and charters on Lake Ontario offer the chance to land the "big one."

Toronto, with its enviable lakefront position, is an ideal place to go fishing. Lake Ontario supports a wide assortment of denizens of the deep, including Chinook and coho salmon, rainbow trout, walleye (pickerel), northern pike, sheepshead, perch, and many others.

If you want to head offshore into the deep waters, consider a salmon charter . Although they can be relatively expensive, your captain and first mate will do their best to put you onto the fish.

There's nothing quite like the call of "fish on" and the screaming of fishing line as the fish takes the bait and runs. Depending on the time of year, you could find yourself battling a 30-pound behemoth.

If that's not in your budget, just head to one of the waterfront parks or the Toronto Islands with a casting rod and reel and a bit of bait. You'll definitely catch something, although it won't be as big as the fish caught on a charter. Note that if you're planning on fishing, you need a license, easily purchased online .

Read More: Top-Rated Fishing Lodges in Ontario

Highlight : Discounted multi-course meals at Toronto's best restaurants.

Should you find yourself in Toronto in the depths of winter during the first two weeks of February, don't despair, it's actually a pretty fun place to be. The saving grace for these dark, cold days is the two-week dining festival called Winterlicious .

At this time, over 200 of Toronto's best restaurants come to the rescue of the city's inhabitants and visitors by offering prix fixe (set price) menus for both lunch and dinner. Each menu consists of a starter, a main, and a dessert, and the restaurant usually has a couple of offerings for each.

The hardest part of Winterlicious is figuring out where to go—dining options are as diverse as the city itself, with meals across all cuisine types. Fortunately, the City of Toronto has a website that lists all the options .

The meals offer tremendous value versus what the restaurants would normally charge and are a great way to try out some of the places you've always wanted to go. Beverages are not included, and this is where the restauranteur makes their money back on the discounted food.

Winterlicious has a seasonal counterpart called Summerlicious that follows the same format. This event takes place during the last two weeks of August.

For sightseeing and entertainment, the best place to stay in Toronto is right downtown in the heart of the action. The hotels listed below are all highly rated and in good locations in Toronto's city center, within easy walking distance of many of the main attractions.

Luxury Hotels:

• At the top end of the luxury category is The Ritz-Carlton, Toronto , with a convenient, central location near the Entertainment and Financial Districts.
• The Delta Hotels by Marriott Toronto has a great location near the CN Tower, Ripley's Aquarium, and Rogers Center, and offers good views over Lake Ontario.
• Near Eaton Center Shopping Complex and Toronto's famous City Hall and winter skating rink is the Hilton Toronto . The hotel has an indoor/outdoor pool that is open all year long; rooms on the south side of the building have views of the CN Tower.
• The Sheraton Centre Toronto Hotel is kitty-corner to the Hilton and faces Nathan Phillips Square. It's connected to Eaton Center via the underground PATH system.

Mid-Range Hotels:

• The One King West Hotel & Residence offers very good value with a variety of rooms, some with kitchenettes. The hotel is located in the center of all the action and steps to great restaurants.
• At the top end of the mid-range selection is the Radisson Blu Toronto Downtown on the waterfront. This is a great spot, particularly in summer, near many lakefront restaurants and an extensive waterfront pedestrian area and within walking distance of the CN Tower and other attractions. The hotel also has an outdoor pool.
• North of The Esplanade and within easy walking distance of the Financial District and many attractions is the Holiday Inn Express Toronto Downtown, an IHG Hotel , another quality mid-range hotel.

Sightseeing:

• If you're looking for a thrilling new perspective on the city skyline, hop aboard a 7-minute helicopter tour over Toronto . During this whirlwind excursion, you'll see top landmarks including the CN Tower, Fort York, and the Canadian National Exhibition grounds. The adventure also includes both a printed and digital souvenir photo.

The best time to visit Toronto is in the summer, during the months of June, July, and August. At this time, the weather is warm and slightly humid, and the city is alive with festivals and celebrations. It's a great time to hit the beach; go camping near town; or enjoy a long, lingering dinner on the patio late into the evening.

September is very pleasant, with summer-like temperatures but without the crowds. You'll also have the added benefit of the Toronto Film Festival.

October finds cooler days and nights and the signs of fall, with leaf color change in the Don Valley and throughout the city's parks.

The spring months of April and May are cool but offer longer days, spring flowers, and blooming cherry trees in High Park.

The winter months of November, December, January, February, and March are cold and snowy. At this time of year, it's best to plan indoor activities.

More Related Articles on PlanetWare.com

Places to Visit near Toronto : If you have time to explore areas outside the city, be sure to take a side trip to Niagara Falls , just a 1.5-hour drive away, and check out some other day trip destinations around Toronto . Within easy striking distance are some of Canada's top cities, including Ottawa and Montreal , just four to five hours away by car and easily accessible by train or short flights. For other ideas on what to see and do in the province, see our list of top attractions in Ontario .

Ontario's Outdoors : Between spring and fall, nature lovers may want to enjoy some hiking, canoeing, camping, or relaxing at a lodge in one of the many Ontario parks , or soaking up the outdoors from the comfort of one of Ontario's top fishing lodges .

Canadian Vacation Ideas: If you are coming to Canada for a short or extended vacation and arriving in Toronto, have a look at some of our Canadian itineraries to help plan the rest of your trip, or select a few of the highlights from our list of top tourist attractions in Canada .

More on Canada

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The Moscow Metro Museum of Art: 10 Must-See Stations

There are few times one can claim having been on the subway all afternoon and loving it, but the Moscow Metro provides just that opportunity.  While many cities boast famous public transport systems—New York’s subway, London’s underground, San Salvador’s chicken buses—few warrant hours of exploration.  Moscow is different: Take one ride on the Metro, and you’ll find out that this network of railways can be so much more than point A to B drudgery.

The Metro began operating in 1935 with just thirteen stations, covering less than seven miles, but it has since grown into the world’s third busiest transit system ( Tokyo is first ), spanning about 200 miles and offering over 180 stops along the way.  The construction of the Metro began under Joseph Stalin’s command, and being one of the USSR’s most ambitious building projects, the iron-fisted leader instructed designers to create a place full of svet (radiance) and svetloe budushchee (a radiant future), a palace for the people and a tribute to the Mother nation.

Consequently, the Metro is among the most memorable attractions in Moscow.  The stations provide a unique collection of public art, comparable to anything the city’s galleries have to offer and providing a sense of the Soviet era, which is absent from the State National History Museum.  Even better, touring the Metro delivers palpable, experiential moments, which many of us don’t get standing in front of painting or a case of coins.

Though tours are available , discovering the Moscow Metro on your own provides a much more comprehensive, truer experience, something much less sterile than following a guide.  What better place is there to see the “real” Moscow than on mass transit: A few hours will expose you to characters and caricatures you’ll be hard-pressed to find dining near the Bolshoi Theater.  You become part of the attraction, hear it in the screech of the train, feel it as hurried commuters brush by: The Metro sucks you beneath the city and churns you into the mix.

With the recommendations of our born-and-bred Muscovite students, my wife Emma and I have just taken a self-guided tour of what some locals consider the top ten stations of the Moscow Metro. What most satisfied me about our Metro tour was the sense of adventure .  I loved following our route on the maps of the wagon walls as we circled the city, plotting out the course to the subsequent stops; having the weird sensation of being underground for nearly four hours; and discovering the next cavern of treasures, playing Indiana Jones for the afternoon, piecing together fragments of Russia’s mysterious history.  It’s the ultimate interactive museum.

Top Ten Stations (In order of appearance)

Kievskaya station.

Kievskaya Station went public in March of 1937, the rails between it and Park Kultury Station being the first to cross the Moscow River.  Kievskaya is full of mosaics depicting aristocratic scenes of Russian life, with great cameo appearances by Lenin, Trotsky, and Stalin.  Each work has a Cyrillic title/explanation etched in the marble beneath it; however, if your Russian is rusty, you can just appreciate seeing familiar revolutionary dates like 1905 ( the Russian Revolution ) and 1917 ( the October Revolution ).

Mayakovskaya Station

Mayakovskaya Station ranks in my top three most notable Metro stations. Mayakovskaya just feels right, done Art Deco but no sense of gaudiness or pretention.  The arches are adorned with rounded chrome piping and create feeling of being in a jukebox, but the roof’s expansive mosaics of the sky are the real showstopper.  Subjects cleverly range from looking up at a high jumper, workers atop a building, spires of Orthodox cathedrals, to nimble aircraft humming by, a fleet of prop planes spelling out CCCP in the bluest of skies.

Novoslobodskaya Station

Novoslobodskaya is the Metro’s unique stained glass station.  Each column has its own distinctive panels of colorful glass, most of them with a floral theme, some of them capturing the odd sailor, musician, artist, gardener, or stenographer in action.  The glass is framed in Art Deco metalwork, and there is the lovely aspect of discovering panels in the less frequented haunches of the hall (on the trackside, between the incoming staircases).  Novosblod is, I’ve been told, the favorite amongst out-of-town visitors.

Komsomolskaya Station

Komsomolskaya Station is one of palatial grandeur.  It seems both magnificent and obligatory, like the presidential palace of a colonial city.  The yellow ceiling has leafy, white concrete garland and a series of golden military mosaics accenting the tile mosaics of glorified Russian life.  Switching lines here, the hallway has an Alice-in-Wonderland feel, impossibly long with decorative tile walls, culminating in a very old station left in a remarkable state of disrepair, offering a really tangible glimpse behind the palace walls.

Dostoevskaya Station

Dostoevskaya is a tribute to the late, great hero of Russian literature .  The station at first glance seems bare and unimpressive, a stark marble platform without a whiff of reassembled chips of tile.  However, two columns have eerie stone inlay collages of scenes from Dostoevsky’s work, including The Idiot , The Brothers Karamazov , and Crime and Punishment.   Then, standing at the center of the platform, the marble creates a kaleidoscope of reflections.  At the entrance, there is a large, inlay portrait of the author.

Chkalovskaya Station

Chkalovskaya does space Art Deco style (yet again).  Chrome borders all.  Passageways with curvy overhangs create the illusion of walking through the belly of a chic, new-age spacecraft.  There are two (kos)mosaics, one at each end, with planetary subjects.  Transferring here brings you above ground, where some rather elaborate metalwork is on display.  By name similarity only, I’d expected Komsolskaya Station to deliver some kosmonaut décor; instead, it was Chkalovskaya that took us up to the space station.

Elektrozavodskaya Station

Elektrozavodskaya is full of marble reliefs of workers, men and women, laboring through the different stages of industry.  The superhuman figures are round with muscles, Hollywood fit, and seemingly undeterred by each Herculean task they respectively perform.  The station is chocked with brass, from hammer and sickle light fixtures to beautiful, angular framework up the innards of the columns.  The station’s art pieces are less clever or extravagant than others, but identifying the different stages of industry is entertaining.

Baumanskaya Statio

Baumanskaya Station is the only stop that wasn’t suggested by the students.  Pulling in, the network of statues was just too enticing: Out of half-circle depressions in the platform’s columns, the USSR’s proud and powerful labor force again flaunts its success.  Pilots, blacksmiths, politicians, and artists have all congregated, posing amongst more Art Deco framing.  At the far end, a massive Soviet flag dons the face of Lenin and banners for ’05, ’17, and ‘45.  Standing in front of the flag, you can play with the echoing roof.

Ploshchad Revolutsii Station

Novokuznetskaya Station

Novokuznetskaya Station finishes off this tour, more or less, where it started: beautiful mosaics.  This station recalls the skyward-facing pieces from Mayakovskaya (Station #2), only with a little larger pictures in a more cramped, very trafficked area.  Due to a line of street lamps in the center of the platform, it has the atmosphere of a bustling market.  The more inventive sky scenes include a man on a ladder, women picking fruit, and a tank-dozer being craned in.  The station’s also has a handsome black-and-white stone mural.

Here is a map and a brief description of our route:

Start at (1)Kievskaya on the “ring line” (look for the squares at the bottom of the platform signs to help you navigate—the ring line is #5, brown line) and go north to Belorusskaya, make a quick switch to the Dark Green/#2 line, and go south one stop to (2)Mayakovskaya.  Backtrack to the ring line—Brown/#5—and continue north, getting off at (3)Novosblodskaya and (4)Komsolskaya.  At Komsolskaya Station, transfer to the Red/#1 line, go south for two stops to Chistye Prudy, and get on the Light Green/#10 line going north.  Take a look at (5)Dostoevskaya Station on the northern segment of Light Green/#10 line then change directions and head south to (6)Chkalovskaya, which offers a transfer to the Dark Blue/#3 line, going west, away from the city center.  Have a look (7)Elektroskaya Station before backtracking into the center of Moscow, stopping off at (8)Baumskaya, getting off the Dark Blue/#3 line at (9)Ploschad Revolyutsii.  Change to the Dark Green/#2 line and go south one stop to see (10)Novokuznetskaya Station.

Check out our new Moscow Indie Travel Guide , book a flight to Moscow and read 10 Bars with Views Worth Blowing the Budget For

Jonathon Engels, formerly a patron saint of misadventure, has been stumbling his way across cultural borders since 2005 and is currently volunteering in the mountains outside of Antigua, Guatemala.  For more of his work, visit his website and blog .

Photo credits:   SergeyRod , all others courtesy of the author and may not be used without permission

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Tour of famous Moscow Metro. Explore the Underground World! (2 hours)

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On this tour you take in some of Moscow's most important and highly decorated stations. Carrying up to 7 million passengers a day and covering almost the entire city, the Moscow Metro is one of the most extensive mass transit systems in the world. It's famous for the fine examples of social-realism which decorate many of its stations.

Visit some of the most important stations and get the chance to admire spectacular baroque-style ceilings, marble statues, busts of Communist heroes, stained glass windows, and ceiling mosaics depicting the bright Soviet future. Visit the most remarkable stations like Komsomolskaya, Kurskaya, Kievskaya and others, with the experienced guide who will bring you a full insight into their fascinating history.

• Tour of Moscow's Metro system visiting beautifully decorated key stations on the network.
• System that carries more than 7 million passengers per day
• Views of the most opulently designed tunnels & platforms
• Significance to the country—known as the “People's Palace”
• History & stories relayed by an expert local guide

If you wonder why the Moscow metro is considered one the most beautiful in the world, this tour is made for you!

Important info

Ask a travel expert.

• Professional English-speaking guide assistance. Other languages upon request (additional charge may apply)
• Hotel pick-up and drop-off
• Personal expenses
• Gratuities (optional)
• Food and drinks
• Confirmation will be received at time of booking
• Children must be accompanied by an adult

Departure and return point: nearest metro station to your central Moscow hotel  

Departure time:  flexible

Sights included in program

Thanks ! We will reply you in less than 24 hours (usually within 1-2 hours) .

Our flexible payment options allow you to pay 20% of a deposit first and the remaining 80% in 14 days prior to your tour date - payment can be done both online or over the phone. This gives you the peace of mind knowing your spaces are booked on the tours and that you do not miss out on making the most of your time in Russia.

Also you get the best, top-rated and most experienced and knowledgeable hand-picked tour guide appointed on a priority basis. In our experience, exceptional travel experiences are almost always delivered by exceptional people. With that in mind, we utilize a comprehensive approach to select and employ the best tour guides only. Multilingual and well travelled, each possesses deep insight into the diverse attractions and cultural patterns throughout the region. With us guides undergo a rigorous selection process, achieving outstanding knowledge of local culture and language. Rest assured that the best tour guides only will be working on the tours to give you excellent opportunity to explore the best of the sights during both short and long-term stay in Russia.

Once you complete your reservation, we will send you a booking confirmation email. As the day of the tour approaches, our logistics team will provide you with all relevant information for your tour.

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Top Things to Do in Elektrostal, Russia

Places to visit in elektrostal.

• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Good for a Rainy Day
• Good for Kids
• Good for Big Groups
• Adventurous
• Budget-friendly
• Hidden Gems
• Good for Couples
• Honeymoon spot
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• Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

1. Electrostal History and Art Museum

2. Statue of Lenin

3. Park of Culture and Leisure

4. museum and exhibition center.

5. Museum of Labor Glory

7. Galereya Kino

8. viki cinema, 9. smokygrove.

10. Gandikap

11. papa lounge bar, 12. karaoke bar.

• Statue of Lenin
• Electrostal History and Art Museum
• Park of Culture and Leisure
• Museum and Exhibition Center
• Museum of Labor Glory

'Total disbelief': Friends shocked by man setting himself on fire outside Trump trial, say he was kind but troubled

When Doug Johnson received a text that his friend of over a decade, Maxwell Azzarello , had died after setting himself on fire in New York City, he didn't believe it.

"I was like, 'No, you got the wrong person. I don't know anybody that would do that,'" Johnson told NBC News.

Johnson did some research online out of curiosity, and that's when he saw Azzarello's face pop up in an article.

"Just immediately, chills up my spine, like, in total disbelief," he said.

Azzarello set himself on fire outside the courthouse where former President Donald Trump’s hush money trial  was taking place on Friday.

According to police, he walked into the center of the park where protesters were allowed across the street from the courthouse, opened a backpack and threw numerous pamphlets on the ground. He then pulled out a canister, poured a liquid accelerant on himself, lit himself on fire and then fell to the ground.

Azzarello, 37, later died of his injuries, leaving friends and strangers alike wondering what drove him to his actions.

Johnson, who was part of the same friend group as Azzarello in North Carolina, describes him as smart, funny, charismatic and the most intelligent human being he had ever met.

"I keep hearing on the news, you know, how he was a conspiracy theorist, an extremist — and obviously, you have to be extreme to do something like he did," Johnson said. "But as far as the way the picture's been painted of him so far, I feel like it's a really inaccurate depiction of him."

Selfless, but troubled

A glimpse at social media gives a small window into Azzarello's thoughts. Multiple pictures of pamphlets entitled "Dips--- Secrets of our Rotten World" and "The True History of the World," were posted to his Facebook and Instagram, expressing anti-government views. In his pamphlets, he accused powerful people of running Ponzi schemes and warned of an imminent economic collapse and coup.

On Friday, a user on Substack going by the name M. Crosby — Crosby is Azzarello's middle name — published a blog post where he wrote that he set himself on fire outside of the Trump trial in New York City. The writer said that this "extreme act of protest is to draw attention to ... an apocalyptic fascist world coup."

Mary Pat Cooney, who worked with Azzarello nine years ago at the Liberty Hill Foundation, an L.A.-based social justice nonprofit, described him as a selfless person who was "always happy to help people" if they had a problem.

"He was highly intelligent, thoroughly dedicated, funny and kind — that's the person that I remember," Cooney said.

Azzarello attended the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and graduated in 2009 with a B.A. in public policy and anthropology, according to a university spokesperson. He also earned his master's degree in city and regional planning, with a major in urban planning and policy development from Rutgers University in New Brunswick in 2012.

"I swear, as far as history and politics and, you know, social studies, social matters, stuff like that, there wasn't a topic that he wasn't knowledgeable in," Johnson, Azzarello's friend from North Carolina, said. "And it was like the equivalent of me typing something into Google and then Max is spitting out the information to me, and he was accurate with it."

But beyond Azzarello's brilliance, he seemed to be troubled, according to his friends. Both Johnson and Cooney said Azzarello appeared to change after the death of his mother in April 2022.

Cooney, who kept in touch with Azzarello through Facebook, said the character of his posts became less good-natured after his mother's death.

"In his previous posts, and all our communication — (he was) concerned, righteous, knowledgeable, a good-spirited guy," Cooney said. "The guy that came a little later was a bit more of a ranter, had a different level of anger, and was expressing it in a — I don't know what the right word is, but it was kind of like he was yelling at us to pay attention to him, rather than pleading his case and sharing it for the world."

In August of last year, Azzarello posted a picture of grippy socks to his Facebook with the caption, "Three days in the psych ward and all I got were my new favorite socks."

"I was handcuffed, shoved, and put into a psych ward," Azzarello wrote toward the end of the caption. "I was given no information about why I was there until after my discharge. Though I committed no crime and was released upon my first evaluation, all background checks (like the ones for jobs) will show an incident with police officers that cannot be expunged (until we abolish the government, of course)."

It's not clear what events took place before Azzarello said he was committed to the psych ward.

A string of arrests

Azzarello's alleged stint in a psych ward seemed to precede a string of arrests in St. Augustine, Florida, where he lived before his death.

On Aug. 19, 2023, Azzarello was charged with criminal mischief when he allegedly threw a glass of wine at an autograph by former President Bill Clinton that was on a wall at the lobby of the Casa Monica Resort & Spa, according to a warrant affidavit from the St. Augustine Police Department.

Two days later, Azzarello allegedly returned to the resort and stood outside, where he stripped down to his underwear, yelled and cursed at customers, and was blasting music from a speaker, per an arrest report.

An officer who attempted to make contact with Azzarello said "he just began yelling and was not making any sense." He was arrested for disturbing the peace. Azzarello was put on probation for this incident, which ended earlier this month.

Three days after that, Azzarello was arrested again for criminal mischief after he was seen on surveillance video allegedly vandalizing property belonging to a nonprofit in St. Johns County, including writing with permanent marker on one of their signs, court documents state. He was also seen climbing into the bed of someone's pickup truck and going through their belongings, as well as removing a sign placed at a home by pest control warning them to keep pets and children off the lawn.

"Azzarello was misinterpreting the sign and was telling me that the pest control company was there to exterminate children and dogs," an officer with the St. Augustine Police Department wrote in the arrest report.

Azzarello was also put on probation in connection with these incidents, which ended earlier this month.

His final moments

Two years after the death of his mother, Azzarello made his way to New York City where he self-immolated. It's not clear why or when Azzarello came to the city, but NYPD Chief of Detectives Joseph Kenny said he arrived early last week and that family members were unaware that he was there.

When asked if he felt there was a reason Azzarello would self-immolate outside of the Trump trial, Johnson said Azzarello wasn't specifically concerned about Trump, but would speak generally about the corruption of all politicians.

While struggling to understand why his friend would do this, Johnson hopes people don't remember Azzarello just for his final moments.

“He deserves at least to be remembered for the good person that he was, the selfless person that he was, the charismatic, loving, giving person,” Johnson said. “All he wanted was better for people and it didn’t matter if he knew you or not. He wanted better for everyone.”

 If you or someone you know is in crisis, call 988 to reach the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline. You can also call the network, previously known as the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline, at 800-273-8255, contact the Crisis Text Line by texting HOME to 741741 or visit  SpeakingOfSuicide.com/resources .

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