Toronto is a busy city with plenty to explore, but sometimes a quick escape is needed. Luckily, there are many amazing places to visit near Toronto, offering everything from breathtaking nature to charming small towns. Whether you’re looking for a summer retreat, a winter wonderland, or a year-round adventure, we’ve compiled a list of the best places to visit near Toronto that cater to all kinds of travelers. So, pack your bags and get ready to explore these stunning destinations just a short drive from the city!
Here is the list of the 7 best places to visit near Toronto.
Niagara Falls
One of the most iconic places to visit around Toronto, Niagara Falls is something every tourist and resident should be able to experience. Only 1.5 hours away from the city, this globally known wonder offers a spectacular view and much to see.
Things to Do:
- Go on a boat tour by Hornblower Cruises for closer proximity to the falls.
- Clifton Hill is also home to a bunch of entertainment, food, and activities like the Niagara SkyWheel.
- Visit Niagara-on-the-Lake, a beautiful little town famous for its wineries and historical locations.
- Experience your luck at Fallsview Casino or have fine dining with the view of falls.
Best Time to Visit:
- Summer: Outdoor events, boating tours, fireworks.
- Winter: Partly frozen waterfalls, very magical icy sight.
Blue Mountain Resort
If you’re looking for adventure and relaxation, Blue Mountain Resort is one of the best places to visit near Toronto in both summer and winter. Located about two hours north of the city, this resort town offers year-round excitement.
Things to Do:
- Winter: Ski or snowboard on Blue Mountain’s trails or enjoy snow tubing.
- Summer: Go hiking, mountain biking, or try the thrilling Ridge Runner Mountain Coaster.
- Find your Zen in the woods at Scandinave Spa.
- Browse the many shops, restaurants, and events at Blue Mountain Village.
Prince Edward County
Another haven for foodies and wine lovers, Prince Edward County is a beautiful, quaint destination only 2.5 hours away from Toronto. The county boasts a handful of sandy beaches, wine estates, and an energetic arts scene.
Things to Do:
- Sandbanks Provincial Park offers beautiful beaches and dunes to visit.
- Wine taste at notable wineries like Hinterland, Norman Hardie, and Closson Chase.
- The quaint towns of Picton and Wellington offer shopping in boutiques and farm-to-table cuisine.
- Fresh seafood with other gourmet food delights can be relished at local restaurants.
Best Time to Visit:
- Summer: Beach days, wine tours, and outdoor dining.
- Fall: Stunning fall colors and festivals during harvest.
Also Read, Best Indian Restaurants in Toronto
Algonquin Provincial Park
For nature lovers, Algonquin Provincial Park is high on the list of best places to visit near Toronto. It’s about 3 hours north, and this large park offers year-round outdoor activities.
Things to Do:
- Summer: Canoeing, kayaking, hiking, and camping.
- Winter: Snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and wildlife spotting.
- Visit the Algonquin Logging Museum and Visitor Centre to learn about the park’s history and ecosystem.
- Watch for moose, deer, and other wildlife along the scenic Highway 60 Corridor.
Elora & Elora Gorge
For those in search of a quaint town with a beautiful natural setup, Elora is one of the best places to visit from Toronto. It is approximately 1.5 hours away and is highly recognized for its limestone cliffs and beautiful views of the river.
Things to Do:
- Go tubing or swimming in Elora Gorge.
- Hike the trails or make your way across the suspension bridge at Elora Gorge Conservation Area.
- Art galleries, shops, and historic sites fill downtown Elora.
- Indulge in luxury with views at Elora Mill Hotel & Spa.
When to Go:
- Summer: Fun in the water, hiking, exploration of town
- Fall: Excellent colors and culture events
Stratford
Stratford is among the best places to visit around Toronto, known for its theatre scene. It is approximately two hours away from the city, and this small town is proud to boast one of the world’s most famous festivals, Stratford Festival.
Things to Do:
- Watch a Shakespearean play at the Stratford Festival that runs from April to October.
- Take a walk around the Avon River lined with beautiful gardens.
- Historic downtown Stratford: boutiques and coffee shops
- Gallery Stratford for contemporary art
Best Time to Visit:
- Summer & Fall: Take in the festival, outdoor dining, and river walks.
Rattlesnake Point & Crawford Lake Conservation Area
For a day’s quick retreat into nature, Rattlesnake Point and Crawford Lake offer the best hiking trails with breathtaking views. Just one hour away from Toronto, the two conservation areas are ideal to be visited during a day-trip.
Things to Do:
- Hike through the various trails at Rattlesnake Point and enjoy panoramic views from atop.
- Go on a tour around Crawford Lake, a picturesque meromictic lake containing an indigenous longhouse village.
- Go rock climbing or have a picnic in the peaceful surroundings.
- Snowshoeing and winter hiking adventures are possible during winter visits.
Best Time to Visit:
- Year-round: Excellent for hiking and outdoor activities throughout the year.
Conclusion
There are a variety of incredible destinations around Toronto, making it pretty easy to plan an unforgettable getaway. Whether one seeks base-jumping thrill, a relaxed spa retreat, or even some cultural experiences, these places to visit near Toronto are for anyone and everyone.
These trips, ranging from the mighty Niagara Falls to the serene Algonquin Park, promise to create memories that last forever. So the next time one needs to break away from city life, taking a look around any of these breathtaking destinations should be on top of the to-do list.
