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Top 9 Day Trips in Toronto
Sometimes, all you need is a good day trip to unwind from all the ruckus that stresses all of us out—whether it’s about work, relationship, or personal issues.
This is why planning a holiday trip somewhere is integral, but sometimes, you just get stuck picking the right spots.
Fortunately, we’re here to narrow down the creme de la creme of day trip spots in Toronto, and you’ll be back on your feet in no time if you’re just in the mood to visit a great place for the day! So, without further ado, here are our best places to go on a day trip in the city.
Rattlesnake Point
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Address: 7200 Appleby Line, Milton, ON L9E 0M9, Canada
Website: https://www.conservationhalton.ca/parks/rattlesnake-point/
Contact Details: +19058540262
Opening Hours: Reservation basis
Cost: $$$
This stunning spot on the Niagara Escarpment is not only a feast for the eyes but a haven for rock climbing enthusiasts, be you a novice or a pro.
If you’re new to the climbing scene, Rattlesnake Point offers more than 200 routes to choose from, with limestone cliffs that vary in height from a manageable 12 meters to an exhilarating 25 meters. The rock quality here is solid and provides a good grip, essential for climbing.
Whether it’s sport climbing, traditional climbing, or bouldering, there’s a challenge waiting for everyone.
Pro Tip:
Consider timing your visit to coincide with either sunrise or sunset (around 5 PM to 7 PM). The views from the cliffs are already stunning, but they become truly magical when the sun is rising or setting.
Scenic Caves Suspension Bridge
Media from mylahjo
Address: 223-401 Scenic Caves Rd, The Blue Mountains, ON L9Y 0P2, Canada
Website: https://sceniccaves.com/products/suspension-bridge
Contact Details: +17054460256
Opening Hours: Daily 9AM to 6 PM
Cost: $$$
Get ready to tread on Southern Ontario’s longest suspension bridge, a whopping 420 feet of heart-pumping excitement suspended in the air.
As you cross, you’re rewarded with awe-inspiring views of the lush Blue Mountain area and the sparkling Georgian Bay. It’s a sight that will leave you breathless – and not just from the walk!
Before you head out, there’s a bit of planning needed. Make sure to grab your general park admission, as this is your golden ticket to the bridge.
Timing is key—the last entry to this sky-high experience is two hours before the park closes each day. So, plan accordingly to avoid disappointment!
Pro Tip:
Try to catch the early morning or late afternoon light. Not only does it make for spectacular photos, but the play of light and shadows over Georgian Bay during these times is truly a sight to behold.
Plus, you’ll likely dodge the bigger crowds, making your bridge adventure even more serene and personal.
St. Jacobs Farmers’ Market
Media from stjacobsmarket
Address: 878 Weber St N, Woolwich, ON N2J 4A9, Canada
Website: http://stjacobsmarket.com/
Contact Details: +15197471830
Opening Hours: Saturdays only 7 AM to 3:30 PM
Cost: $$
Venture out to St. Jacobs Farmers’ Market, the largest of its kind in Canada, nestled in a village rich with Mennonite heritage.
With over 400 vendors, both inside and outside, offering everything from the freshest farm produce to unique artisanal crafts, your shopping bags (and stomachs!) will be full of local delights.
A little planning goes a long way for this trip. The market is open year-round but operates only a couple of days a week, particularly Thursdays and Saturdays in the winter.
This is the perfect opportunity to support local farmers and artisans while discovering some truly unique finds. And don’t forget to bring a cooler—you’ll definitely want to take home some of the fresh meats, cheeses, and other perishables.
Pro Tip:
Immerse yourself in the local culture by exploring the surrounding village. After rummaging through the market, why not catch a show at one of the local theaters, or enjoy a scenic tour?
Alton Mills
Media from alton.mill
Address: 1402 Queen St W, Alton, ON L7K 0C4, Canada
Website: http://altonmill.ca/
Contact Details: +15199419300
Opening Hours: Daily 10 AM to 5 PM
Cost: $$
This unique space, housed in a beautifully restored old stone mill, is a cultural oasis, offering a delightful blend of art, history, and relaxation. Wander through the gallery spaces showcasing local artists, find unique gifts in the shop, or simply unwind in the cozy café.
For art enthusiasts and casual visitors alike, spending an afternoon here is a treat for the senses.
Each corner of the mill tells a story, blending the rustic charm of its past with the vibrant creativity of the present.
Pro Tip:
Make sure to check out the museum section of the Arts Centre. It offers fascinating insights into the mill’s historical significance and the evolution of the local arts scene.
Scandinave Spa
Media from scandinaveblue
Address: 152 Grey County Rd 21, The Blue Mountains, ON L9Y 0K8, Canada
Website: https://www.scandinave.com/blue-mountain/
Contact Details: +18779888484
Opening Hours: Daily 9 AM to 9 PM
Cost: $$$
For a relaxing escape from the hustle and bustle of Toronto, the Scandinave Spa is an idyllic choice. Nestled in a 25-acre forest near Blue Mountain, this spa offers a unique Scandinavian bath experience.
The setting alone, with its expansive views of the Niagara Escarpment, sets the tone for a serene getaway. Here, you’ll find a range of Scandinavian baths and hydrotherapy circuits, designed to cleanse the body, stimulate blood circulation, and release endorphins.
Paired with massages, these treatments are perfect for rejuvenation, especially after a day of hiking or skiing.
The Scandinavian bath experience includes a body-warming stage with steam baths and saunas, followed by a refreshing rinse in nordic waterfalls and cold-plunge baths.
Afterward, relax in various serene areas, soak up some sun in the solarium, or lounge in hammocks and Muskoka chairs. Additionally, the spa features a forest bathing trail for a self-guided, meditative walk in the woods, complementing your spa experience.
Pro Tip:
Don’t miss out on embracing the cold-water plunge. This step is crucial for the full hydrotherapy experience and has been praised for its benefits to the nervous system and overall resilience.
Doube’s Trestle Bridge
Media from curtissnapshot
Address: Trans-Canada Trail, Kawartha Lakes, ON K0L 2W0, Canada
Website: http://www.ktct.ca/
Contact Details: N/A
Opening Hours: 24/7
Cost: $$
This bridge, steeped in history, offers an extraordinary view from 100 feet above the ground, spanning 650 feet across the scenic Buttermilk Valley.
Originally built in the 1880s as a rail link between Peterborough and Lindsay, this wooden structure was later converted partly into steel, reflecting its evolving role in transportation.
Now repurposed as part of The Great Trail, this bridge entices hikers, cyclists, and nature lovers alike. Its location, just a short journey from Toronto in the Kawartha Lakes region, makes it an ideal day trip.
The trail itself stretches over 54 kilometers, offering ample opportunities for exploration and the chance to immerse yourself in the tranquility of nature.
Pro Tip:
Visit during autumn when the landscape transforms into a vibrant tapestry of fall colors, making the view from the bridge even more breathtaking.
The bridge’s rich history and its transformation from a key transportation route to a recreational trail add a unique layer to your hiking experience.
Lake Erie
Media from mjamesbrown
Address: TD Canada Trust Tower, 161 Bay St. #2700, Toronto, ON M5J 2S1, Canada
Website: N/A
Contact Details: N/A
Opening Hours: 24/7
Cost: Free
Exploring the shores of Lake Erie can be an exhilarating adventure, with each beach offering its unique charm.
Among the 1,400-kilometer stretch of coastline, locations like Long Point, Turkey Point, Port Stanley, and SandHill are ready to welcome you with warm waters and the quintessential beach town ambiance.
Headlands Beach State Park, just 40 minutes from Cleveland, is a must-visit for sand dune enthusiasts. This expansive beach, covering 35 acres, is ideal for soaking up the sun or exploring the nearby Headlands Dunes State Nature Preserve.
If you’re seeking a mix of city and beach experiences, Edgewater Park Beach in Cleveland is perfect. It’s a dog-friendly location with a massive park and beach area, providing stunning city skyline views.
Vermilion’s Main Street Beach is another gem for those who love small-town vibes and romantic getaways. It’s a place where sunset strolls near the lighthouse and leisurely canoeing come together beautifully.
Pro Tip:
Plan your visit during the off-peak times, either early in the morning or later in the afternoon. This timing not only offers a more peaceful beach experience, away from the larger crowds, but also provides some of the most stunning lighting for photography.
Kelso
Media from beautifully_chaotic_me
Address: 5234 Kelso Rd, Milton, ON L9E 0C6, Canada
Website: https://www.conservationhalton.ca/parks/kelso/
Contact Details: +19058785011
Opening Hours: Daily 9 AM to 7 PM
Cost: $$
Kelso Conservation Area, nestled in Milton, Ontario, is a fantastic spot for a day filled with mountain biking and a refreshing swim.
While the biking trails here may not be the most technically challenging, they offer a mix of thrilling climbs up the Niagara Escarpment and beautiful single-track paths.
The variety of trails means there’s something for every level of mountain biker, whether you’re looking for a relaxed ride or a more intense workout. After biking, you can cool off with a swim at the beach located at the base of the trails.
Before heading out, remember that there’s a daily entrance fee, which gives you access not only to Kelso but also to other parks in the Conservation Halton group, like Hilton Falls.
This opens up even more possibilities for mountain biking adventures. It’s also important to be prepared for the multi-use nature of these trails; having a bell on your bike is recommended to alert hikers and other riders as you approach.
Pro Tip:
Bring or rent a kayak or canoe for a paddle on the lake after your mountain bike ride. This combination of land and water activities provides a full-day experience, allowing you to explore the area from different perspectives.
Paddling on the lake is not only a great way to cool off but also offers a peaceful contrast to the adrenaline of mountain biking.
Port Perry
Media from portperrybia
Address: 215 Water St, Port Perry, ON L9L 1B8, Canada
Website: http://www.portperrymarina.ca/
Contact Details: +19059853236
Opening Hours: Daily 8 AM to 6 PM
Cost: $$$
Exploring the area around Lake Scugog, especially near Port Perry, offers a delightful mix of outdoor relaxation and cultural experiences. Kinsmen Beach on Lake Scugog is a charming spot to spend an afternoon, offering the tranquility of a lakeside setting not too far from Toronto.
After soaking up the sun and enjoying the serene waters, a visit to Old Flame Brewing Co. in Port Perry can be a perfect way to end the day. This brewery, set in a historic building, offers a great selection of lagers and beers – a refreshing experience for beer enthusiasts.
Port Perry itself offers a variety of dining options. From international cuisine at places like Marwan’s Global Bistro, which is known for its butter chicken, to other local eateries, there’s plenty to satisfy your culinary cravings.
In addition, the town is rich in history and paranormal lore, with attractions like the haunted Town Hall and Jester’s Court Pub, adding an intriguing twist to your visit.
Pro Tip:
If you’re a winter enthusiast, the same region offers unique experiences like ice fishing, snowmobiling, snowshoeing, or cross-country skiing on Lake Scugog.
Matching your visit with these seasonal activities not only diversifies your experience but also allows you to see the area in a different light, depending on the time of year.
