With summer coming to a bittersweet end, you can beat the post-summer blues by making the most of the new season by enjoying some iconic fall activities happening in and around Toronto. From pumpkin patches and apple picking to cranberry plunges and scenic hikes, be sure to try these bucket-list fall day trips.
Here are the best fall day trips to take this year.
Downey’s Farm and Pumpkin Patch
Downey’s Farm has been growing fruit for over 25 years, welcoming visitors from all over the Greater Toronto Area. Located North of Brampton, Downey’s Farm is the perfect way to celebrate all that fall has to offer with your family. Come and stock up on fresh seasonal produce, or check out Pumpkinfest, Downey Farm’s biggest celebration of the year that features wagon rides, farm animals, live entertainment, an 8-acre corn maze, and so much more. Pumpkinfest runs from September 17 until October 31st, from 10 am – 5 pm.
Address: 13682 Heart Lake Road, Caledon
Muskoka Lakes Farm & Winery
If you’re up for a longer drive, head to Muskoka to check out the cranberry harvest, a legendary fall activity that kicks off on September 24. Come and see the best cranberry bushes in full form and watch harvesters scour over 27 acres of property to pick and produce around 300,000-400,000 lbs of cranberries. On-site activities include wagon tours, wine tasting, the epic cranberry plunge, and of course, beautiful fall scenery.
Address: 1074 Cranberry Road, Bala
Dundas Peak
For those looking to get some exercise, Dundas Peak provides incredible views of the changing leaves and is only under an hour away from the city. Home to arguably the best lookout point in the province, Dundas Peak is located just outside Hamilton and offers everything you need for the perfect fall day: waterfalls, an incredible hike, and, of course, amazing views of the changing leaves.
Address: Harvest Road, Dundas
Applewood Farm
Apple picking is a must during fall. Head to Stouffville for an afternoon and stock up on crispy Gala, sweet Red Delicious, and tart McIntosh apples. You can also enjoy wagon rides, a corn maze, a sunflower field, the pumpkin patch, farm animals, and much more.
Address: 12416 McCowan Road, Stouffville
The Hanes Corn Maze
Come and get lost in this human-sized puzzle carved into 20 acres of 12’ tall corn stalks. Whether you want to try the corn maze, check out the sunflower fields, challenge your friends in an escape room, find the perfect pumpkin, or enjoy something sweet from the Tiny Shop Bakery, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Address: #1001 Highway #5 West, Dundas
Pumpkins After Dark
Pumpkins After Dark is a Canadian award-winning outdoor Halloween event featuring over 6,000+ hand-carved pumpkins. This one-of-a-kind walk-through experience is definitely the must-see event of the fall season, so it’s definitely worth it to take a day trip out here.
Address: Country Heritage Park, 8560 Tremaine Road, Milton
Fall Colour Excursions
Autumn is easily the most beautiful time of year in Ontario, and there’s truly no better way to enjoy the changing scenery than through the window of a heritage steam train. The South Simcoe Railway is located less than an hour from the city and it’s holding scenic train rides this October through the beautiful Beeton Creek Valley.
Address: 28 Mill Street West, Tottenham
Niagara-on-the-Lake
From the history and vineyards to the great restaurants and scenic views, Niagara-on-the-Lake is even more picturesque during the fall. Spend an afternoon (or the weekend) exploring the tree-lined streets, the wineries, neighbouring farms, and apple orchards, and along the lake, as you take in the beautiful views of the fall scenery.
Address: Historic Old Town, Niagara-on-the-Lake
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