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Feeling stuck in the hustle and bustle of the city? A quick escape might be closer than you think.Â
From blooming gardens and hidden lakes to riverside adventures and cultural gems, these Ontario travel day trip destinations offer the perfect mix of relaxation and exploration – all within a 1.5-hour drive of Toronto (or less). Go ahead and plan your mini getaway!
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Looking for a peaceful nature escape that’s a bit more remarkable than your typical hiking trail?
Whistling Gardens in Norfolk County offers over 20 acres of stunning botanical gardens, including North America’s largest public peony collection with over 1,000 varieties. Wander through 4 km of accessible trails, take in the vibrant blooms, and don’t miss the musical fountain show.
Whistling Gardens isn’t just a feast for the eyes. It’s also an environmental sanctuary, with reforested areas, wetlands for local wildlife, and an exotic bird aviary. Whether you’re a nature lover, photographer, or just looking to slow down, this attraction has something for everyone.
Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy by the fountains, wander the garden centre, or book a guided tour for a more in-depth experience.
If you have extra time after exploring the gardens, use the Norfolk Tourism App to find nearby restaurants and hidden gems. And if you decide to stay the night, the app makes finding accommodations a breeze—so you can turn your day trip into a mini getaway without the hassle.
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Nestled along the Grand River, this breathtaking destination is famous for its 22-metre-high cliffs, panoramic views, and riverside trails that wind through 350 acres of pristine conservation land.
Water lovers, take note: tubing down the Grand River is a must, whether you’re up for a gentle float along calmer sections or ready to take on the faster rapids. You can also cool off at the nearby Elora Quarry, a picture-perfect swimming hole surrounded by towering limestone walls.
For those who prefer to stay dry, Elora Gorge offers scenic hiking trails that offer panoramic views of the gorge and its dramatic cliffs. With options for camping and picnicking, it’s easy to turn your day trip into an overnight adventure.
When you’re ready to refuel, the historic Elora Mill & Spa offers a farm-to-table dining experience overlooking the gorge. It’s the perfect way to wrap up a day of adventure with locally inspired dishes and stunning views of the river.
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Calling all foodies! Set on a repurposed tobacco farm, this award-winning winery offers not just exceptional wines, but a full day of activities to enjoy in Norfolk County.
Start with a wine tasting—choose from a variety of experiences that let you sip your way through their appassimento-style wines, crafted using Italian techniques and local grapes. If you’re curious about the process, book a guided tour of the vineyards, kilns, and production room. You’ll hear stories about the winery’s history, sip wine as you walk, and even get an exclusive peek into the barrel room. After your tour, the Back Kitchen restaurant is the perfect spot to refuel.
Burning Kiln Winery hosts many events throughout the year – like the Concerts in the Vineyard series, a Harvest Hike, Crafts at the Kiln or other seasonal workshops.
Want to turn the day trip into something more? Download the Norfolk Tourism App to find accommodations, discover nearby gems like Long Point Eco-Adventures or plan a scenic drive through Norfolk’s countryside.
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With its mix of history, nature, and extraordinary geological wonders, Crawford Lake Conservation Area is an Ontario travel destination worth the drive.
The star of the park is the meromictic lake, a rare natural phenomenon where the water’s layers never mix. The sediment at the bottom has stayed undisturbed for centuries, preserving clues about the area’s past – which was once home to a thriving Indigenous community.
You can discover this history firsthand at the reconstructed 15th-century longhouse village, where interpretive displays and artifacts tell the stories of the Wendat people who lived here over 600 years ago.
For nature lovers, the 1.9-kilometre boardwalk trail around the lake offers breathtaking views of its turquoise waters and the surrounding forest. It’s an easy and peaceful walk that’s great for all ages, with plenty of photo opportunities along the way.Â
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If you’re looking for an easy escape without leaving the city, the Distillery District is the perfect pick. Just a quick drive or transit ride from anywhere in Toronto, this historic neighborhood offers cobblestone streets, stunning heritage architecture, and a vibrant atmosphere that feels like a world away.
What was once a 19th-century whiskey distillery has been transformed into a pedestrian-only cultural hub packed with artisan shops, art galleries, craft breweries, and some of the city’s best restaurants. Sip handcrafted cocktails at the Spirit of York Distillery, grab a bite at Cluny Bistro and Boulangerie, or browse one-of-a-kind boutiques for unique finds.
With so much to discover just minutes from home, the Distillery District is an effortless way to spend a day exploring Toronto’s hidden charm.
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Why wait to take a break from city life? These Ontario travel destinations prove that you don’t have to go far to find extraordinary experiences. Pack your bag, hit the road, and make memories that will last forever.