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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Whoever denounces winter blues as a real condition, can shove it. You definitely deserve a vacation, no explanation necessary, and you should leave ASAP.
While Florida is overdone and Mexico is less of a vacation for your liver, Bahamas could be your perfect winter escape.
Blessed by an always sunny climate, the tropical Islands are little slices of heaven; one of the main islands is even called “Paradise Island.” And for good reason – pure Instagram bliss is inevitable with picture perfect beaches and blue skies for days.
Here are eight reasons why vacationing in the Bahamas is #LifeGoals.
1. Sunwing flies direct
Departing from Toronto, Sunwing has more direct flights than any other leisure carrier, meaning getting to your sunny Island destination is easier than ever. Flights from Toronto to Nassau (the Bahamas capital) are scheduled every Thursday and Sunday until April 29, 2018.
2. The flight is only three and a half hours long
Paradise is closer than you think. The flight to Nassau averages at approximately three and a half hours. Better yet, if you hate flying or are just fancy, passengers can upgrade to Elite Plus for only $50. Hello, legroom.
3. You’re treated like royalty the second you arrive
Sunwing is the only Canadian operator who offers signature vacations with RIU Hotels and they want every vacationer to feel like Beyonce upon arrival. Think things like welcome cocktails, in-room liquor dispensers, 20% discounts on select local excursions, spa credits, poolside waiter service, and daily champagne breakfast.
4. There are no annoying kids at RIU Paradise Island
The RIU Paradise Island is an adult-only resort so your vacation won’t be riddled with the screams of spoiled children. That sounds like pure bliss in itself.
5. There’s a sh*t ton of food and endless cocktails
Unlike Cuba (sorry for naming names) the food is actually delicious in the Bahamas. The RIU features daily buffets for all meals, a number of a la carte restaurants and a cappuccino bar. Was a huge fan of the buffet doughnuts and Steak Restaurant. Two words: surf & turf.
6. Your Instagram will thank you because.. beaches
White sand. Blue skies. Crystal clear waters. The beaches in the Bahamas are glorious. The serene environment is basically begging you to have an Insta photo shoot. Don’t be shy – live your truth!!! Even if it’s five outfit changes and 30 different angles.
7. Exploring the island is easy
Sunwing took it upon themselves to scour the Island for the best it has to offer and then neatly packaged those experiences into exclusive excursions. Sailing on a catamaran and visiting the local fish market are a must. Conch (the dish of the Bahamas) is freshly caught and diced up right before your eyes. If you’re a fan of ceviche, you’ll LOVE it.
8. The Bahamas is really, really cool
The Islands are rich with culture and have way more to offer than just idyllic beaches and blue shores. Among the pastel colour buildings, there’s so much history, including pirates, canons and an old fort. The Bahamas is also a major producer of cigars and chocolate with a number of workshops you can visit.
You won’t want to leave, ever. Enough said.
To book a vacation to the Bahamas, head to the Sunwing website.
What do you think about vacationing in the Bahamas?
Featured images: Aly Zorn
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