The best day trips from Toronto

Toronto offers plenty to see and do, but there are more places in Ontario worth adding to your bucket list. From great winemakers to incredible nature trails and delicious local eats, here are some fun and easy day trips you can make from Toronto, all of which also attract locals.

Swim the Grotto in Tobermory

The Grotto might be the most beautiful natural wonder in Ontario. Located in Bruce Peninsula National Park, the Grotto is a limestone sea cave with stunningly crystal-clear water, and fun to swim through. Book online in advance to secure a 4-hour time slot at one of the limited parking spots. If you have more time, take a short ferry ride to see Flowerpot Island.

The drive to Tobermory from Toronto is more than 3 hours, so many locals prefer to stay overnight. But you can definitely make it a day trip if you start earlier and leave later. With incredible rock formations, clear blue waters and forested cliffs, the Bruce Peninsula is a stunner.

Getting there: Rent a car for the 3½-hour drive. Alternatively, the Parkbus picks up near Toronto’s Bloor-Yonge Station at 8:30 AM with a drop-off at the Grotto for 1:30 PM, then picks up from the Grotto at 5:30 PM, returning to Bloor-Yonge Station at 10:15 PM.

Wine tasting in Prince Edward County

While the vineyards of Niagara-on-the-Lake are well-loved by many Torontonians, Prince Edward County is becoming another favorite destination for wine lovers. They may be newer to the scene, but with a few dozen wineries perfecting their craft in the County, they certainly know what they’re doing.

Prince Edward County is also a popular getaway destination for millennials, as it’s home to Instagram-worthy spots like the June Motel and the Drake Devonshire Inn. 'Rosé all day,' as they say.

Getting there: If you’re visiting on a week day, ride the Greyhound bus from Toronto to Belleville, then take the Deseronto Transit bus into Prince Edward County. Otherwise, you’ll have to rent a car for the 2¼-hour drive.

Stroll Clifton Hill at Niagara Falls

Niagara Falls is a wonderful sight to see, but a trip there isn’t complete without a visit to the famous Clifton Hill Street. From wax museums, to mirror mazes, to haunted houses, there are tons of fun and carnivalesque attractions to explore in this little area. You can also enjoy sweet treats from the Fudge Factory and get an incredible view from high on the Niagara SkyWheel. It’s a great destination for both couples and families.

If you’re in the mood to get a little soaked, take a boat tour around Niagara Falls and see it up close. After dark, the Falls are illuminated in a sea of colors against the city lights.

Getting there: Travel from Toronto to Niagara Falls through GO Transit starting from Toronto’s Union Station or through Megabus from near the Toronto Eaton Centre. You can also rent a car for the 1½-hour drive.

Hike to waterfalls in Hamilton

With more than 100 waterfalls in its vicinity, Hamilton has often been called the ‘waterfall capital of the world.’ Some require hiking on rough trails, some you can walk right up to, and some you can see in the comfort of your air-conditioned vehicle. Parking lots can get busy during the weekends, but don’t park illegally – the Hamilton police keep an eagle eye out for infractions.

After you’ve exhausted the waterfall hikes, grab a meal (and perhaps a drink) along King William Street. This popular street in downtown Hamilton is filled with trendy and amazing restaurants such as Frat’s Cucina (great Italian food) and HAMBRGR (unique burgers).

Getting there: To visit Hamilton from Toronto, take GO Transit from Toronto’s Union Station or rent a car for the 45-minute drive.

Watch live theatre in Stratford

Stratford is a beautiful town filled with arts, culture and a love for all things Shakespeare. The Stratford Festival is a theatre festival running annually from spring to fall, with around half a million visitors each year.

Catch a live performance at the Avon Theatre, grab some of the best vegan food you’ll ever have at The Planet Diner and sample local stouts and ales at the Shakespeare Brewing Company. If you didn’t already know, Stratford is also famous as the hometown of Justin Bieber.

Getting there: Take the VIA Rail from Toronto’s Union Station or rent a car for the 1¾-hour drive. The Stratford Festival also offers a Direct Bus from Union Station to Stratford for theatre ticket holders.

Get adventurous in Blue Mountain

A popular skiing destination in the winter, Blue Mountain offers year-round adventure activities including canoeing, kayaking, zip-lining and mountain biking.

Once you’ve had your adventure fix, shop and dine in the adorable and picturesque Blue Mountain Village. While you’re there, check out the Ridge Runner Mountain Coaster, a rollercoaster-like ride up the mountain and through the trees. It’s quick but exciting, and you can control your own speed.

Getting there: Take an AUC Tours shuttle in the winter or Greyhound bus year-round from Toronto to Blue Mountain Village or rent a car for the 2½-hour drive.

Get more travel inspiration, tips and exclusive offers sent straight to your inbox with our weekly newsletter. Make sure you're ready for anything with travel insurance from our trusted partners.