I know all about wanting to travel on a shoestring budget. The itch to explore every inch of the globe is real, my friends. But, unfortunately, the state of my bank account just isn’t in line with my ambition to travel the world.
Luckily, there are some pretty rad places just around the corner, and plenty of adventure to be had not too far from Toronto!
Here are four day trips to take outside of Toronto this summer.
Elora, Ontario
Elora might just be one of my favourite places to explore. A trip to Elora is less than two hours by car, and it’s most certainly worth it. There is so much to do and see, you might think you’ve gone a lot farther than two hours outside of the city.
Things To Do
Elora Brewing Co.
If you’re anything like me then travel is defined by food and craft beer. I always try and find a local brewery no matter where I go, so of course one of my first stops in Elora is their brewery!
Elora Gorge & Quarry
Not only is the town of Elora super beautiful, they’ve also got to beautiful conservation areas to visit. The Gorge is the place to go for casual walks, as well as tubing down the Grand River. You can also camp at the Gorge campgrounds. The Quarry is a large swimming hole with high cliffs and good times.
Prince Edward County, Ontario
I am definitely making a trip to PEC this summer. There is just so much to do, I’m not sure how you could fit it all in one day! But, being just about two hours outside of Toronto, it’s a great place to make multiple day trips this summer. While we’ve already built a list of things to do in Prince Edward County that can’t be beat, here are some other things to add to your to-do list while you’re there.
Things To Do
Designed by Tiffany Pratt, who designed Paris Paris and Cafe Cancan here in Toronto, The Vic Cafe is a beautiful space and totally Instagrammable. You’ll love all the colours and fun vibes, as well as the all day breakfast!
Okay, I know I said day trips outside of Toronto, but trust me, you’re going to want to visit The June. It feels more like you’re hanging out in Palm Springs than just a few hours outside of Toronto, so you know the photos ops are going to be prime. Plus, you can always just go for a hang at the lobby bar if you’re going to be in the area anyway!
Caledon, ON
Just north of Brampton is a large county called Caledon. And when you head out that way, you’ll be in for a treat!
While it might be closed for conservation, there are still a few lookout points for a great view! Since it’s so close to Toronto, you’ll have plenty of time to admire its beauty.
Hamilton, ON
Okay, you might be thinking I’m a little bit crazy to suggest heading out to a location that’s literally a Go Train ride out of Toronto, but hear me out, okay? There are tons of amazing places in Hamilton, and when was the last time you made the trek?
The Waterfalls
Did you know there are a TON of waterfalls within Hamilton? It’s the waterfall capital of the world! What a better way to spend a summer day then chasing waterfalls?
Not only are these gardens super pretty, but the RBG actually hosts concerts here, too! The Strumbellas will be playing there on July 7th, how cool is that? Plus, if you head over right now, you might catch a glimpse of the cherry blossoms and save yourself the headache of seeing them at High Park!
With so many amazing places to adventure just outside of Toronto, maybe I don’t have to worry so much about travelling all over the world this year. I can’t wait for the summer weather to hit!
“Fall” in love with Ontario this season. It’s time to take in the some of the specular sights that our beautiful province has to offer.
Skip the pumpkin patch this autumn, grab your car keys and hit the road. Check out these 10 road trips that are definitely worth taking this fall with bae or your bestie.
Drive safe!
Mono Cliffs Provincial Park
Image: Instagram/@olia.m.g
This Southern-Ontario provincial park is nestled within the town of Mono, right along the Bruce Trail. This back-to-nature beauty is also part of the Niagara Escarpment Park System and the Biosphere Reserve.
Prince Edward County
Image: Instagram/@escapetoronto
Known for their wineries and Instagram-worthy hotels, this gem will please everyone that’s packed in the car. Bring a picnic blanket and get cozy at Sandbanks Provincial Park, or grab a meal in Picton.
Port Dover
Image: Instagram/@davidpuddyrealestate
Located just a few hours southwest of the city, the Cape Cod of Ontario is begging for your patronage. This road trip wonder will also prove to be perfect for the bike enthusiast in your life.
Niagara-on-the-Lake
Image: Instagram/@andy.bby
People flock here in the summer for a taste of Ontario wines, but we definitely prefer it in the fall. Take a drive town the tree-lined old town that features heritage homes and sprawling views.
Paris
Image: Instagram/@aidasahaie
Voted the prettiest little town in Canada, this short drive west of the city is also known as the cobblestone capital of our country. Park your car and check out their picturesque museum, or grab a meal at the iconic Arlington Hotel.
Collingwood
Image: Instagram/@explorecollingwood
This gateway to Blue Mountain sees flocks of tourists year-round. If you’re looking to immerse yourself in historic sites and cultural highlights including a museum, this is the drive for you. This beautiful town also boasts a harbour, walking trails and parks.
Cobourg
Image: Instagram/@megboothh
Just a short drive east of the city, this small town boasts boutique shops and beautiful beaches. Take a walk through the historic downtown or the conservation area to get your fill of fall nature.
Bayfield
Image: Instagram/@amberlyn_reid
This idyllic community in Bluewater has a small population but a big heart. Just two and a half hours west of the city, this beauty sits on the eastern shore of Lake Huron. Once you park your car in this fairy tale town, be sure to check out the artist’s studios or the boutiques down Main Street.
Unionville
Image: Instagram/@aaron.lo
This little village in Markham is a short drive from the city and boasts a vibrant shopping, food and fashion scene. Walk along the historical Main Street and take in the sights that have been relatively untouched since 1794.
Elora
Image: Instagram/@chenni.li
This small town just an hour and a half west of Toronto boasts history and happening hot spots. This short drive will prove to be ideal for those looking to hike or cycle, as it hits a portion of the Trans-Canada Trail that highlights incredible scenic views.
Windsor
Image: Instagram/@bloglecahier
Warm up with a little whisky in Windsor this fall. J.P Wiser’s recently opened its own brand experience centre with a bar and a view of the Detroit River. Guests are allowed to stop by for a tour to learn about J.P Wiser’s grain to glass whisky process and partake in whisky tastings
Where will you road trip to this fall? Share your favourite destinations in the comment section.
Featured Image: lynny_from_the_block