12 last-minute long weekend road trips within 3 hours of Toronto

May 16 2019, 10:04 pm

If you haven’t made plans for the upcoming long weekend yet, we got you.

While there are more than enough events to keep you busy in Toronto, you might want to consider stepping out of the city for the upcoming long weekend.

Take a break from your hectic city life by planning an unforgettable weekend away.

Read below to learn more about our favourite long weekend day trips from Toronto that are all within three hours of the city.

Prince Edward County

Drive 2.5 hours east of the city and you’ll see nothing but vineyards, scenic beaches, and lush countryside as far as the eye can see. Spend your days checking out the beautiful lake views and the famous Sandbank Provincial Park and complete your trip by eating your way through the Taste Trail which features artisanal cheese makers, cafes, wineries, and restaurants that serve dishes made from fresh local ingredients.

Niagara-on-the-Lake

Filled with history and unparalleled vineyards, breweries, and restaurants, Niagara-on-the-Lake is stunning in the spring months. Spend the weekend either on foot or on a bicycle, and explore the tree and flower lined streets, the wineries, and the lake.

Muskoka

Muskoka is always a good idea, especially during the long weekend when it’s finally warm enough to sit dockside and enjoy the epic views. The best part is, you can spend the weekend checking out the scenic views in a number of adventurous ways with kayaking, ATVing, hiking, zip lining, and boating being popular options.

Blue Mountain

Regardless of the season, there’s always lots to do in Blue Mountain and spring is no exception. From zip-lining and downhill roller coasters to Scandinavian baths and indulgent food, you’ll be able to keep yourself busy from sunrise to sunset. Blue Mountain will be hosting a range of family-friendly activities this May long weekend including scavenger hunts, rib eating contests, live music, campfires, fireworks, and more.

St. Jacobs

While any time of the year is a great time to check out St. Jacobs, May is a great time to visit because it’s not as busy with tourists as the summer months. Steeped in history and set in a charming location along the Conestoga River, St. Jacobs has a unique Mennonite history that’s unlike anything you’ll ever experience in the city. From the beloved St. Jacobs Farmers’ Market and antique stores to the horse-drawn trolly tours and the iconic covered (kissing) bridge, you’ll find plenty of things to do while in town.

Algonquin Park

Algonquin Park is the oldest provincial park in Canada and consists of thousands of lakes, rolling canopies of lush trees, and a variety of campsites that are suitable for all campers, from those who prefer comfort to those who like to rough it. Canoeing is a popular activity, as the Park’s interconnected ecosystem joins up with a variety of lakes and rivers, creating a truly remarkable experience. Make sure to keep in mind that Algonquin is known for its wildlife and be sure to keep your distance.

DeCew Falls

Located about 1.5 hours from Toronto (on a good traffic day), you’ll find DeCew Falls, a picturesque plunging waterfall located by a historic mill. Spend an afternoon exploring the mill, hiking along the Bruce Trail and, if it’s warm enough, you can even take a dip near the Falls

Dundas Peak

If you’re in the mood for an adventure, pack the car, and head just under two hours west of Toronto to Dundas Peak where you’ll discover nature trails filled with beautiful views of Dundas and Hamilton. Part of the Spencer Gorge/Webster Falls Conservation Area, hikers can enjoy the Spencer Adventure Trail, which connects from Christie Lake all the way to the Dundas Peak. From waterfalls and green views as far as the eyes can see, this is one of the most stunning natural areas in Ontario.

Beamsville

If your idea of the perfect afternoon includes wine tastings, you can discover some outstanding locally made wine in Beamsville such as Thiry Bench, Fielding Estate, and Angel’s Gate. As the wineries are close to each other, you can easily go wine tasting at several vineyards in one day. Sounds like a perfect afternoon to us.

Inglis Falls

While Owen Sound is a bit of a trek from Toronto, over three hours to be exact, Inglis Falls is definitely worth the trip. Known for being the most popular waterfall in Owen Sound, Inglis Falls is an 18-metre high cascade waterfall, created by the Sydenham River meeting the edge of the Niagara Escarpment.

Haliburton Highlands

Just under three hours from downtown Toronto, you’ll find some of the most picturesque lake views in the province. And what could be more quintessentially Canadian than spending an afternoon canoeing on a peaceful lake? In the Haliburton Highlands, you’ll find a series of lakes, many of which don’t allow motorized boats, which are the perfect setting for perfecting your paddle.

Elora Quarry

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Just under two hours from Toronto, you’ll find the Elora Quarry, a scenic oasis surrounded by sheer cliffs that are more than 12-metres high. There’s definitely something to do for everyone as there are trails with scenic routes for hiking, with views of the water below where tubers and kayakers make their way down the waterway.

Disclaimer: To ensure your safety and well-being when visiting parks, please stay on marked trails, abide by trail closure signs, and hike with a friend for increased safety. To avoid hazards, we recommend keeping a safe distance back from slopes, bluffs and river edges.

For more information on how to stay safe while enjoying the outdoors, please visit Parks Canada’s website.

Stay safe and enjoy the great outdoors!

Ainsley SmithAinsley Smith

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