Top 10 destinations for road trips from Toronto
Toronto is the most populous city in Canada, and there’s so much to see and do that the available attractions are practically endless. Even with all that at your doorstep, however, there are some features that Toronto simply can’t offer. Additionally, you may just want to get off of the city’s busy streets. Fortunately, there are plenty of options available well within driving distance.
1. Find small-town charm in Huntsville
Driving time from Toronto: 2.5 hours Distance from Toronto: 230 km
If you’re looking for a relaxing road trip destination, Huntsville has got you covered. Located near Algonquin Provincial Park, Huntsville offers breathtaking natural sites, especially if you visit Fairy Lake and the surrounding tall trees area. The town itself has numerous comforts to offer as well, including locally owned restaurants with traditional food and specialty shops run by local crafters.
2. Embark on an outdoor adventure in The Blue Mountains
Driving time from Toronto: 2 hours Distance from Toronto: 170 km
The Blue Mountains is a top-tier destination for travellers looking for outdoor adventure. The most popular attraction, of course, is the local ski resort where you can venture down thrilling slopes on skis or a snowboard. There’s still plenty to do outside the winter months as well, including cross-country skiing, biking, and hiking. There’s even an extravagant mini-golf course in the area.
3. Enjoy time by the lake in Simcoe County
Driving time from Toronto: 1.5 hours Distance from Toronto: 120 km
When you visit Simcoe County, you’ll find quite a few different attractions waiting for you, with the most popular being the lakes. Whether you visit Lake Simcoe or Lake Couchiching, you can enjoy time on the water in a boat or simply go for a swim. Fishing is popular here as well, or you can opt for kayaking or paddle boating, especially around the local rapids.
4. See the breathtaking beauty of Niagara Falls
Driving time from Toronto: 1 hour Distance from Toronto: 120 km
Niagara Falls is one of the most iconic natural features in the world. This massive waterfall draws in visitors from across oceans to see the magnificence of its massive falls. Being in Toronto, all its majesty is just a short drive away. You can take a boat ride below the falls where the refreshing mist will wash over you, and you can even go for a zip line ride.
5. Find fun in the sun in Prince Edward
Driving time from Toronto: 2 hours Distance from Toronto: 200 km
If you’re looking for a summer road trip from Toronto destination, head east to Prince Edward. This island adventure lets you find peace and tranquillity all while offering beachfront fun given its border with Lake Ontario. The island is fairly isolated as well, so you’ll have to take a ferry with your car to the island proper. Once you arrive, you can enjoy rolling hills and quite a few wineries.
6. Visit the city of a hundred steeples in Montreal
Driving time from Toronto: 5 hours Distance from Toronto: 540 km
The city of Montreal is the second-most populous city in the country behind Toronto, and it has much to offer travellers looking to experience some of the best Quebec can offer. In fact, some would argue it’s the cultural capital of all of Canada, especially when it comes to French language productions and events. You’ll find numerous theatres and restaurants here with French twists.
7. Experience the variety of activities available in Peterborough County
Driving time from Toronto: 1.5 hours Distance from Toronto: 160 km
Visiting Peterborough County opens up a wide variety of activities you can enjoy on your road trip. You can stay near the lakes and streams if you’re interested in boating and kayaking, or you can hit the countryside where you’ll find scenic vineyards that offer exciting tours. There’s even an opportunity to take to the sky with a tour of the region via a private plane.
8. Explore the parks of the Parry Sound District
Driving time from Toronto: 2.5 hours Distance from Toronto: 250 km
When you visit the Parry Sound District, you’ll be greeted with impressive natural features all well-preserved in designated park areas. You can visit several lakes and even venture out into the harbour with a boat for tours of the nearby islands. In fact, the sheer number of islands has made the area well-known, as the 30,000 islands make it the largest freshwater archipelago in the world.
9. Hit the beach with a trip to Bruce County
Driving time from Toronto: 2 hours Distance from Toronto: 180 km
Bruce County is geographically a peninsula, so you’ll never be far from the shore when your road trip takes you here. You can enjoy a relaxing afternoon by the beach next to the calm waters of Lake Huron and Georgian Bay. There are even several lighthouses you can tour. Of course, you’ll find adventure farther inland as well, with a wide variety of hiking trails available with various difficulty levels.
10. Trek through cottage country in Haliburton County
Driving time from Toronto: 2.5 hours Distance from Toronto: 210 km
Road trips that lead to Haliburton County are especially rewarding as they take you right through Canadian cottage country. With quaint towns and vibrant natural surroundings, this county offers a satisfying reprieve from the hustle and bustle of the city. You’ll find extensive hiking paths and vineyard tours, and you can also explore the community’s art and history in town.