Top Weekend Getaways Near Toronto: Your Ultimate Escape Guide

Weekend Getaways from Toronto

Dave and I have explored every nook and cranny of Ontario and have taken many road trips throughout the province on countless weekend getaways from Toronto. Therefore, we decided that this summer would be the perfect time to compile a comprehensive guide to the very best weekend getaways from Toronto to keep you busy all season long. Are you ready? Let’s go!

1. Niagara Falls

I know, I sound like a broken record because I always include Niagara Falls in my favorite places around the world, but it’s true! This natural wonder is right in the backyard of Toronto, making it one of the best all-around weekend getaways from Toronto. While we often take just a day trip from Toronto, it’s much more fun to enjoy a weekend here.

Stay in the Fallsview Tourist area and our favorite is the Marriott Fallview Resort. Try your luck at the Fallsview Casino, hop on the Hornblower, and take a Journey Behind the Falls. Don’t miss strolling up Clifton Hill and checking out some of the wax museums.

There are amazing romantic packages in Niagara Falls, where you can spend time in a jacuzzi suite overlooking the falls and then enjoy dining with a view after a day of adventure.

• Niagara Falls is a 90-minute drive from Toronto.
• You can also get to Niagara Falls by Bus from Toronto.
• Find out where to stay in Niagara Falls in our complete breakdown here.
• See everything there is to do in Niagara Falls in our Niagara Travel Guide.
• Check out our Niagara Falls Road Trip guide here.

2. Niagara on the Lake

For the ultimate romantic weekend getaway from Toronto, Niagara on the Lake takes the top spot. Stay at the historic Pillar and Post for a romantic escape or unwind in one of its historic hotels or BnBs. There are many options within walking distance from the charming heritage district of downtown.

Located just 90 minutes from Toronto, Niagara on the Lake is brimming with history and beauty. Enjoy a show at the Shaw Festival, hop on the whirlpool jet boat through the Niagara gorge, or rent a bicycle for vineyard hopping. Theater enthusiasts will love visiting this professional theater, while history buffs can stroll to Fort George National Historic Site.

• Niagara on the Lake is 90 minutes from Toronto by car.
• Don’t have a car? Check out car rental prices here.
• See our full list of things to do here.

3. Blue Mountain / Collingwood

Blue Mountain Village and Collingwood is our year-round getaway. With the best skiing in Ontario, we love hitting the slopes in winter. However, summertime is filled with fun and adventure.

Located on Georgian Bay, this area offers a plethora of outdoor activities. Consider taking a boat tour, going rock climbing on the Niagara Escarpment, or exploring the scenic caves and suspension bridge.

This year-round destination shines for skiing and snowboarding in winter, but the village is equally lively in summer, with slopes transforming into slide rides on the Ridge Runner Mountain Coaster and mountain biking trails. After a day filled with adventures, unwind at the Scandinavia Spa Blue Mountain (which is our favorite activity).

• Collingwood is a 2-hour drive from Toronto.
• For those without a car, consider renting one here.
• See our complete Blue Mountain Travel guide here.

4. Whitewater Rafting on the Ottawa River

An extraordinary weekend getaway from Toronto involves visiting OWL Rafting or Wilderness Tours for an all-inclusive weekend of whitewater rafting on the Ottawa River. Having experienced both, we absolutely love spending the weekend making new friends and relaxing on the riverside between rafting excursions.

Sign up for the sport rafting weekend with OWL for a day on a big raft, the only company that ventures through the largest rapids on the river. The second day switches to a sport raft, guided by just four individuals. Both companies offer cabins and camping, along with meals and rafting included in your package—it’s truly an exhilarating experience.

• Read all about it at Ottawa River Rafting.

5. Muskoka

Muskoka is the gateway to cottage country and is located only a couple of hours north of Toronto. This region attracts movie stars and celebrities to its many lakes and serves as the ultimate weekend getaway from Toronto. The Muskoka Region spans a large area, featuring Huntsville, Bracebridge, Algonquin Provincial Park, Gravenhurst, the Muskoka Lakes, Georgian Bay, and Arrowhead Provincial Park.

Enjoy sunset cruises on Lake Muskoka or Rosseau, or explore the 30,000 islands off the shore of Midland. Engaging in various watersports—from sailing and kayaking to paddle boarding and canoeing—offers numerous options. So, how do you decide where to go in Muskoka? Let’s find out.

6. Algonquin Provincial Park

If you seek a rugged weekend getaway from Toronto, Voyageur Quest is your answer. They provide canoe trips to Algonquin Park, taking you to secret locations where you’re likely to spot many moose. For those wanting a hint of luxury within the park, they also offer a cottage retreat on a private island, complete with your own beach and outdoor sauna.

• Algonquin Park is a 3-hour drive from Toronto.
• Voyageur Quest offers canoe tours and luxury cottage rental.
• Algonquin Outfitters provides canoe rentals.

7. Huntsville

Deerhurst is the Grande Dame of Muskoka resorts. Operational since 1896, this lakeside lodge is the ideal year-round getaway. It offers outdoor adventures in both summer and winter, serving as a fantastic base for exploration with amenities such as canoes, kayaking, golfing, hiking trails, and beaches all at your fingertips.

You don’t have to leave the resort, but if you do, you are near all the major Muskoka attractions like downtown Huntsville, Algonquin Park, Arrowhead, and Bracebridge.

• Deerhurst Resort in Huntsville is roughly 2 hours and 45 minutes from Toronto.

8. Lake Rosseau

Goldie Hawn and Kurt Russell once called Lake Rosseau home, and the luxurious JW Marriott Muskoka Resort and Spa is fit for celebrity royalty. Originally known as Paignton House back in 1894, this five-star retreat now attracts weekenders from Toronto, all eager to enjoy what National Geographic called, The World’s Most Beautiful Destination.

Dave and I cherish our first high-end weekend getaway to Lake Rosseau, and it holds a special place in our hearts. There, we relished simply sitting by the dock, sipping wine, and enjoying a boat ride on the tranquil lake.

• Lake Rosseau is a 3-hour drive from Toronto.
• Many hotels are available to fit all budgets in Muskoka; check out rates here.

9. Georgian Bay

Georgian Bay Islands National Park boasts the world’s largest freshwater archipelago. You can only reach this UNESCO Designated Biosphere by boat, and once there, you’ll be immersed in a pristine wilderness perfect for camping, hiking, and mountain biking.

The blend of the Canadian Shield and dense forests have inspired renowned Canadian artists, The Group of Seven. For a unique experience, stay in an oTentik to fully embrace this weekend escape.

• Visit Parks Canada for campsite availability and information.
• Campsites can be booked through Parks Canada.
• Honey Harbour is a 2-hour drive from Toronto.

10. Haliburton

Establish a home base at Sir Sam’s Inn and Spa to explore all that Haliburton has to offer. This spa features an incredible indoor water spa, making it a year-round retreat with skiing, snowshoeing, and snowmobiling at your fingertips during winter.

Haliburton also presents numerous summer adventures, including canoe routes, sunset cruises, and hiking trails. Our favorite is visiting the Wolf Sanctuary at Haliburton Forest, where you can observe wolves in their natural habitat. If you adore dogs, be sure to go dogsledding with Tanya and Hank at Winterdance.

• The Haliburton Highlands are 2 hours and 45 minutes from Toronto.

11. Grey County

Bruce County remains a concealed gem from Toronto, a destination many city dwellers may be unaware of. (Don’t worry, I’m a city slicker too!) This delightful part of Ontario makes for an incredible weekend getaway. Nestled on Lake Huron’s Bruce Peninsula, there is plenty to see and do here.

Establish a base in Walkerton or Wiarton to explore everything this region has to offer. Sauble Beach features Canada’s second-longest freshwater beach at an impressive 11 km.

Grey County is famed for its lovable groundhog, Wiarton Willy, who heralds the arrival of spring. Additionally, you can discover eight beautiful waterfalls, including Hoggs Falls, Eugena Falls, and Inglis Falls. Be sure to stop by the Kincardine lighthouse for fascinating insights into the maritime history of the Great Lakes.

• Wiarton is roughly a 2-hour and 50-minute drive northwest of Toronto.

12. Wasaga Beach

One of our favorite weekend excursions from Toronto invariably features a beach, and the pinnacle of beaches is Wasaga Beach. It truly is! Wasaga Beach boasts the longest freshwater beach in the world, stretching 14 km. Aside from its length, Wasaga Beach is renowned for its sandy shores and shallow waters, ideal for swimming.

So, pack that cooler filled with refreshments and enjoy what Wasaga Beach has to offer.

• Wasaga Beach is a 2-hour drive from Toronto.
• Accommodations in the area mainly consist of motor inn types of motels, so we often opt for camping. We enjoy Craigleith Campground, located about 20 minutes away.

13. Stratford

I admit I am somewhat biased towards Stratford, having grown up just 30 minutes from this lovely Ontario town. Stratford is also a highly favored weekend destination from Toronto for theatre enthusiasts.

This charming town is home to the world-famous Stratford Festival, attracting theatre lovers for eight months of each year. Renowned figures like William Shatner and Christopher Plummer have graced the stages of this festival, which continues to attract high-profile talent. However, Stratford offers far more than just theatre.

For a luxurious getaway, stay at the Bruce Hotel, conveniently located within walking distance of the Festival Theatre. Its central location enables you to enjoy downtown Stratford luxuriously. The hotel’s dining room is rated among the best in Canada, and its lap pool and therapeutic spa are simply divine.

• Stratford is an hour and a half drive from Toronto.

14. Peterborough

Peterborough is situated directly on the Trent Severn Waterway and is home to the highest lift lock in the world. There are plenty of engaging activities in Peterborough to keep you occupied for a weekend. Many of our preferred outdoor activities center around the Lift Lock. You should definitely take a tour of the lock to see it from above, and you can also book a cruise of the lock.

Downtown Peterborough is vibrant, featuring a summer music festival, a campground right in the city center with its own beach, and numerous dining options. In Peterborough, you’ll experience an urban vibe within the heart of cottage country.

• Peterborough is just an hour and a half drive from Toronto, making it a suitable day trip as well.

15. Kawartha Lakes

When I picture the Kawarthas, the first thing that comes to mind is the Tragically Hip: “It was in Bobcaygeon, where I saw the Constellations reveal themselves one star at a time.” It’s such a magical lyric. The second association is the famous Kawartha Lakes Ice Cream. We always made a point to stop for a delightful ice cream cone on our way to cottage country.

The Kawarthas blend seamlessly into Peterborough, allowing both regions to be explored together. Connected by the Trent Severn Waterway, each region is dotted with lakes.

The towns of Bobcaygeon, Lindsay, and Fenelon Falls constitute the main urban areas. You can follow the butter tart trail, visit the horse and carriage museum, or paddle the Trent Severn Waterway by canoe. We thoroughly enjoy canoe trips!

If you prefer not to paddle, consider renting a houseboat to explore the Trent Severn Waterway and its lakes. The Kawartha Lakes is famously recognized as the houseboat capital of Ontario.

• The Kawarthas are located about 2 hours east of Toronto.

16. Port Dover / Norfolk County

Growing up on the shores of Lake Erie, my family had boats at Turkey Point and Port Burwell. This part of Ontario has seen tremendous growth, with many people escaping Toronto for weekends along its rugged shore.

Stretching from Port Dover to Long Point, this lakefront region offers a wealth of outdoor activities. Given that Port Dover provides the best accommodations and amenities, we suggest establishing a base here and taking day trips to other beaches. Lake Erie boasts some of Ontario’s finest sandy beaches.

From wineries and brewpubs to the Turkey Point Hotel—one of my personal favorites—there is much to explore. The Lighthouse Festival Theatre in Port Dover attracts delightful Canadian talent, while Long Point Eco Adventures offers canopy tours and glamping experiences.

• Port Dover is a 1 hour and 40 minute drive from Toronto.

17. Langdon Hall

Langdon Hall is a stunning country escape located in Cambridge, Ontario. This exquisite chateau dates back to 1898 and served as the summer residence for the daughter of New York’s famous Waldorf Astoria founder. It features a delightful day spa equipped with a steam room, sauna, and hot tub offering treatments ranging from pedicures to hot stone massages.

This location serves as a fabulous base to explore the Tri-City area of Cambridge, Kitchener, and Waterloo. Nestled near the Grand River, which offers rafting, kayaking, and cycling trails, as well as a nearby golf course, it’s truly the ultimate romantic destination.

You can remain on-site at Langdon Hall for a remarkable weekend getaway since everything revolves around enjoying its five-star amenities, including afternoon tea, five-diamond dining, and the luxurious spa.

• Langdon Hall is just a 1-hour drive from Toronto.

18. Pearl Hotel & Spa Autograph Collection – Burlington

For a quick getaway from Toronto, the Pearl Hotel & Spa in Burlington is just a 40-minute drive away and serves as a luxurious destination for pampering. Positioned right on the waterfront with stunning views of Lake Ontario, the Pearl provides an excellent romantic escape for couples. No detail has been overlooked in this luxurious resort, named after the family matriarch, Grandmother Pearle.

Things to Do in Burlington

The Pearle Spa features a traditional Hammam sauna, private massage rooms perfect for couples, and a relaxation pool. The resort’s suites exude five-star luxury and the Isabelle Restaurant offers fresh, farm-to-table cuisine with beautiful waterfront views.

Located in downtown Burlington at Spencer Smith Park, there are plenty of local activities ranging from shopping in quaint boutiques to leisurely strolls along the waterfront trail. Burlington Village Square, just across the street, offers a variety of dining and shopping options. This area is designed to mimic an early 19th-century town square, complete with cobblestone streets, cafes, and boutique shops. Our favorite dining spot here is Paradiso, known for its amazing food and wine. Book your stay here.

19. Prince Edward County

This area represents Ontario’s other wine region outside of Niagara on the Lake. Located on an island in Lake Ontario, Prince Edward County consists of three main towns: Picton, Wellington, and Bloomfield, and is quickly becoming one of the best day trips from Toronto. The main attraction here is Sandbanks Provincial Park, featuring magnificent sandy dunes that rise to 25 meters (82 feet).

Consider indulging in a weekend package at the Drake Devonshire, which Conde Nast has recognized as home to one of the most romantic hotel rooms in the world. Savor a glass of champagne on your private balcony while relishing the stunning views of Lake Ontario from your opulent retreat.

• Prince Edward County is just a 2-hour drive from Toronto.

Long Weekend Getaways from Toronto

The following trips are a bit farther away from Toronto than others that are just a couple of hours from the city, but they make for fantastic road trips. Dave and I often packed up the car and made the drive out of the city, returning just in time for work on Monday. However, if you can, we highly recommend turning these trips into long weekend adventures.

20. Ottawa

It’s well-known that Dave and I have a fondness for Ottawa. Just five hours from Toronto by car or a quick one-hour flight from Billy Bishop Airport, Ottawa remains our favorite city escape. Canada’s Capital City offers a vibrant atmosphere and a distinctly different vibe compared to Toronto, blending urban sophistication with a small town feel.

Stay at the Fairmont Chateau Laurier, located on the Rideau Canal, where you are within walking distance of the Parliament Buildings, the bustling ByWard Market, the National Gallery, and Rideau Canal cruises. It serves as a year-round destination, full of activities throughout both summer and winter, especially when Winterlude is in full swing.

• 5 hours east of Toronto by car.
• Flights to Ottawa are available daily from Billy Bishop Airport.
• Traveling by train takes 4 hours and 45 minutes, but public transit options are available to get downtown.

21. Montreal

A visit to Montreal transports you to a delightful slice of Europe. Opt for a stay at the historic Fairmont Queen Elizabeth in downtown Montreal to be within walking distance of Old Montreal and Notre Dame Basilica. Bring along a bottle of wine to enjoy at one of the many restaurants lining the cobblestone streets of Old Montreal, where you can savor authentic French cuisine. Additionally, consider renting a bicycle to cycle along Lachine Canal or hike up to Mont Royal.

• Traveling to Montreal takes just five hours from Toronto by train, from downtown to downtown.

22. Tobermory

If you’re looking for a long weekend getaway from Toronto, head out to the Bruce Peninsula and explore Tobermory. Known for its resemblance to the Caribbean until you dip your toes in the water, Tobermory is a popular destination in recent years for visitors flocking to the Grotto and Flowerpot Rocks at Flowerpot Island. The Bruce Trail stretches 885 km, weaving through the UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve and providing some of the top views along the trail right here.

• Tobermory is approximately a 3 hour and 45-minute drive from Toronto.
• While we typically camp when visiting Tobermory, there are numerous BnBs and small hotels in the area. Check out accommodations in Tobermory here.

23. Manitoulin Island

Manitoulin Island deserves a few days to fully explore from Toronto. Nestled in Lake Huron, it is the world’s largest freshwater island and offers a getaway ideal for outdoor enthusiasts. Spend your weekend at the Manitoulin Hotel and Conference Centre in Little Current while discovering the Great Spirit Circle Trail and its spectacular natural environment.

The Cup and Saucer Trail presents one of Canada’s great hiking experiences. With outstanding Indigenous cultural experiences available, plus impressive natural wonders and exceptional dining options, it truly is worth the journey.

• Manitoulin Island is a 6-hour drive north of Toronto, making it a commitment, but one that is undoubtedly rewarding.

These selections represent our favorite weekend getaways from Toronto. This summer presents a perfect opportunity to start exploring your own backyard. Let us know which getaway you choose.

For those looking to learn about another great trip from Toronto, consider visiting Lake Placid, New York.

For more insights on Ontario Travel and Toronto:

• The Best Things to do in Toronto – A Guide to the Top Attractions
• Where to Stay in Toronto – A Guide to the Best Neighborhoods
• 19 Most Epic Things to do in Ontario
• 35 Iconic Places to Visit in Ontario, Canada
• Best Weekend Getaways in Ontario
• Best Valentines Romantic Getaways in Ontario

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Travel Planning Resources

Looking to organize your next trip? Consider these tried and tested resources to assist your planning.

Find Flights: Start your trip by discovering the best flight deals on Skyscanner.

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Apartment Rentals: Secure the best prices on apartment rentals with VRBO.

Travel Insurance: Don’t embark on your journey without it. Here’s our recommendation:

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Book Your Activities: Searching for walking tours, skip-the-line tickets, private guides, and other experiences? We recommend Get Your Guide.

For additional planning support, check out our Resources Page, where we highlight all the reputable companies we trust for our travels.