Scenic Day Trips from Toronto

Location: Belfountain, Ontario (about 1 hour northwest of Toronto)

Looking for a quiet, nature-filled day trip from the city? You’ll love Belfountain Conservation Area, a peaceful retreat nestled in the hills near the charming village of Belfountain. The best way to get there? Take the scenic Forks of the Credit Drive, a beautiful route that winds along the Credit River and sets the mood for a relaxing escape.

• Scenic Arrival – Take the Forks of the Credit Scenic Drive for jaw-dropping views on your way to the park
• Outdoor Serenity – Enjoy hiking, fishing, and picnicking in a peaceful setting of mature forest and gardens
• Leashed Dogs Welcome – Bring your pup along for the walk—just keep them on a leash
• Suspension Bridge Views – Snap some photos from the suspension bridge overlooking the picturesque waterfall
• Perfect for Relaxation – It’s a great spot for yoga, meditation, or simply unwinding in nature

Address: Belfountain Conservation Area, 10 Credit Street, Belfountain, ON L7K 0E5
Phone: 800-367-0890

Location: London, Ontario (easy drive from Toronto)

No passport? No problem! A day trip to London, Ontario offers a dose of history, culture, and fun—without leaving Canada. Named after its famous English namesake, this charming city features attractions with a familiar twist and makes for a great getaway just a couple of hours from Toronto.

• History Meets Innovation – Visit the Banting House to learn how insulin was discovered right here in Canada
• Explore Art & Culture – Stop by Museum London for an inspiring mix of art and local history exhibits
• Kid-Friendly Fun – The London Regional Children’s Museum is a hit with families looking for hands-on fun
• Covent Garden Vibes – Stroll through the Covent Garden Market for fresh food, local goods, and great coffee
• Brews & Views – Join a local brewery tour or stretch your legs on the scenic Thames Valley Trail

Address: London, ON N0L 1E0

Location: Caledon, Ontario (less than an hour from Toronto)

Looking for a quick escape from the city? The charming town of Caledon and its surrounding countryside offer the perfect blend of nature, family fun, and local flavor. Just a short drive from Toronto, it’s a top spot for scenic road trips, seasonal adventures, and hidden-gem experiences.

• Scenic Drives – Especially stunning in the fall, Caledon is known for its vibrant foliage and winding country roads
• Outdoor Fun – Enjoy hiking trails, conservation areas, and even exotic critters at Little Ray’s Reptile Zoo
• Local Harvest Adventures – Visit family-friendly farms with pick-your-own produce, hay rides, corn mazes, and petting zoos
• Art Stops – Discover local talent at art galleries and studios that welcome drop-in visitors
• Sip & Savor – Along your route, explore microbreweries and wineries offering tastings and small-town hospitality

Address: Caledon, ON L7C 1J6

Location: Cobourg, Ontario (about 1 hour from Toronto by car or train)

When you’re craving sun, sand, and a relaxed coastal vibe, Cobourg Beach makes for a fantastic day trip. With its wide sandy shoreline, charming historic touches, and family-friendly features, it’s easy to see why this lakeside town has been a beloved getaway since the early 1900s.

• Beach Bliss – Enjoy the spacious sandy beach, shallow swimming areas, and a splash pad perfect for kids
• On the Water – Rent a kayak or paddleboard from Green Canoe Outfitters or bike along the lakeshore
• Historic Charm – Stroll past early 20th-century vacation homes that give the area its classic holiday atmosphere
• Downtown Discoveries – Explore King Street for boutique shopping, cozy cafés, and great dining options
• Culture Fix – Check out the Art Gallery of Northumberland or step back in time at the Sifton-Cook Heritage Center

Address: Cobourg Beach, Cobourg, ON K9A 3P3

Location: Hamilton, Ontario (about 1 hour from Toronto by car or train)

History buffs and curious travelers will love a visit to Dundurn Castle, a beautifully preserved 40-room mansion in nearby Hamilton. Built in 1835 and once home to Canadian political leader Sir Allan Napier MacNab, this grand estate offers a fascinating peek into 19th-century life—with plenty of modern comforts for its time, like gas lighting and running water.

• Step Back in Time – Take a guided tour through the grand rooms and working kitchens to see how both the wealthy and their servants lived
• Architectural Elegance – Marvel at the neoclassical design and preserved interiors that bring the 1800s to life
• Beyond the Castle – Don’t miss seasonal garden tours and Historic Cooking Workshops hosted on-site
• Easy Access – Located in Hamilton, it’s a stress-free trip by car or GO train from Toronto
• Family-Friendly & Educational – Perfect for curious minds of all ages who enjoy history, architecture, and hands-on experiences

Address: Dundurn Castle, 610 York Blvd, Hamilton, ON L8R 3E7
Phone: 905-546-2872

Location: Stoney Creek, Ontario (about 1 hour from Toronto)

If you're in the mood for something a little off the beaten path, the Eramosa Karst Conservation Area is a fun and fascinating day trip destination. Located in Stoney Creek, this natural gem is home to a collection of karsts—caves and underground passages formed by dissolving limestone rock—and offers a unique chance to explore up to sixteen different karst features.

• Explore Caves & Passages – Discover small caves, sinkholes, and hidden tunnels created by natural erosion
• Scenic, Easy Trails – Wander 7 km of mostly flat, shaded trails, ideal for families and casual hikers
• Kid-Friendly Adventure – The unique landscape is a hit with kids who love to explore and climb
• Perfect Picnic Spot – Bring lunch and enjoy a laid-back picnic surrounded by natural beauty
• Quiet & Relaxing – A peaceful spot that feels far removed from the city, yet it’s just an hour away

Address: Eramosa Karst Caves, Upper Mount Albion Rd, Stoney Creek, ON L8J 3X9
Phone: 905-627-1233