Best Ontario Road Trips From Toronto

Ontario is a treasure trove of incredible road trip destinations, offering a perfect blend of natural beauty, adventure, and family-friendly fun. Whether you’re planning a peaceful getaway or a thrilling exploration, the diverse landscapes of Ontario provide ample options for a memorable journey. With options to suit every interest, from picturesque beaches to charming towns and vineyards, there’s something for everyone.

Why Ontario Road Trips Are Perfect for Families

• Flexibility: Road trips provide the freedom to explore Ontario at your own pace, making spontaneous stops to enjoy scenic views, local attractions, and hidden gems along the way.

• Affordable Adventures: With no need for flights, road trips can often be more budget-friendly, allowing you to invest in experiences and unique activities.
• Variety of Experiences: Whether you’re a nature lover, foodie, history buff, or adventure seeker, Ontario offers a wide range of attractions that appeal to all ages.

Top Ontario Road Trip Destinations From Toronto

1. Niagara Falls and Niagara-on-the-Lake

• Distance: ~130 km (1.5 hours by car)
• Transportation Options:
  • Car: Round-trip gas cost approximately CAD 25.
  • GO Train & Bus: One-way fare is approximately CAD 25 per person.
  • Taxi: Starting fares around CAD 200+ (one-way).

Highlights:

• Horseshoe Falls: A world-famous natural wonder, with opportunities for boat tours that get you close to the falls. Hornblower Cruise tickets start at CAD 32 per adult.
• Niagara-on-the-Lake: A charming town with historic sites, boutique shops, and scenic waterfront views.
• Niagara Parkway: Known for its beauty, this scenic route offers plenty of picturesque spots to stop and take in the surroundings.
• Butterfly Conservatory: Over 2,000 butterflies in a tropical rainforest setting. Entry is CAD 17.

Pro Tips:

• Visit during off-peak hours for a quieter experience.
• Bring a light rain jacket for the boat tour, as you may get wet from the mist of the falls.

2. Prince Edward County

• Distance: ~200 km (2.5 hours by car)
• Transportation Options:
  • Car: Gas costs approximately CAD 35 for a round trip.
  • Bus: Limited public transportation options; fares vary.

Highlights:

• Sandbanks Provincial Park: One of Ontario’s top beaches, perfect for swimming, hiking, and picnicking. Entry fee: CAD 21 per car.
• Vineyards: A wine lover’s paradise, with popular stops like The Grange of Prince Edward for tastings (starting at CAD 10).

• Picton & Wellington: Quaint towns with galleries, local shops, and artisanal markets.
• Local Cuisine: Visit The Drake Devonshire for a lakeside dining experience or enjoy fresh produce at local farmers’ markets.

Pro Tips:

• Book accommodations well in advance, especially during summer.
• Rent a bike to enjoy the county’s scenic trails and vineyards.

3. Muskoka

• Distance: ~180 km (2 hours by car)
• Transportation Options:
  • Car: Gas costs approximately CAD 30 for a round trip.
  • Train & Taxi: VIA Rail to Gravenhurst (~CAD 50 one-way) plus taxi fare (~CAD 40).

Highlights:

• Lake Muskoka: Perfect for kayaking, canoeing, or relaxing by the water. Kayak rentals start at CAD 30/hour.
• Bracebridge Falls: A picturesque waterfall right in the town’s heart.
• Cranberry Marsh: Learn about cranberry harvesting through guided tours (CAD 15 per person).
• Hiking Trails: There are plenty of nature trails, such as Kearney Trail, with stunning views of the forest and lake.

Pro Tips:

• Pack a picnic, as some remote areas may have limited dining options.
• Muskoka is busy in summer, so make sure to reserve your stay early.

4. Blue Mountain and Collingwood

• Distance: ~160 km (2 hours by car)
• Transportation Options:
  • Car: Gas costs approximately CAD 28 for a round trip.
  • Bus: Toronto to Collingwood shuttle (~CAD 35 per person, one-way).

Highlights:

• Scenic Caves Nature Adventures: Take a walk on the suspension bridge and explore caves in the Niagara Escarpment. Entry fee: CAD 27 per person.
• Blue Mountain Resort: Ideal for outdoor activities year-round, including skiing, ziplining, and hiking.
• Collingwood Town: A charming town with great restaurants, local shops, and breweries like The Collingwood Brewery for craft beer tastings.

Pro Tips:

• Wear comfortable shoes for hiking and exploring.
• Consider visiting off-peak to avoid heavy crowds.

5. Thousand Islands

• Distance: ~300 km (3 hours by car)
• Transportation Options:
  • Car: Gas costs approximately CAD 50 for a round trip.
  • Train: VIA Rail to Kingston (~CAD 70 one-way), plus taxi fare (~CAD 25 to the boat tours).

Highlights:

• Boat Tours: A must-do activity to explore the 1,800 islands, with prices starting at CAD 40 for a tour.
• Boldt Castle: A historic castle located on Heart Island, accessible via boat (Entry fee: CAD 14).
• Paddleboarding and Kayaking: Rent equipment to explore the beautiful St. Lawrence River.
• Kingston: A charming town rich in history, with attractions like Fort Henry (Entry fee: CAD 10).

Pro Tips:

• Arrive early to catch the first boat tours of the day for a more peaceful experience.
• Explore the local shops in Gananoque for unique souvenirs and local goods.

Fare Options for Ontario Road Trips: By Car, Train, Taxi, or Bus

By Car:

Driving is one of the most flexible and convenient ways to explore Ontario, especially with family or a group. Here’s an overview of the costs:

• Fuel: Gas costs around CAD 1.40-1.60 per liter, with average road trip distances resulting in gas expenses of CAD 25-50 (depending on the destination).
• Tolls: Ontario has a few toll roads; for instance, the 407 ETR toll highway can cost approximately CAD 5-30 for a one-way trip, depending on the distance.
• Parking: Most towns and parks charge a small parking fee, ranging from CAD 5-15 per day.

By Taxi:

Taking a taxi is a more expensive option, especially for longer distances. For example:

• Toronto to Niagara Falls (one-way): Starting around CAD 200+
• Toronto to Blue Mountain (one-way): Starting around CAD 150+

Taxis are best for short distances within cities or for convenient door-to-door service.

By Train:

Ontario’s VIA Rail and GO Train services are an affordable option for many destinations:

• GO Train (Toronto to Niagara Falls): Around CAD 25 per person one way.
• VIA Rail (Toronto to Kingston): Around CAD 70 one way.
  Train travel is relaxing and provides scenic views, but it may not always be as direct as driving.

By Bus:

Taking the bus is another budget-friendly option, especially for longer routes:

• Toronto to Niagara Falls by Greyhound or Megabus: Around CAD 20-30 one way.
• Toronto to Collingwood (Greyhound Bus): Around CAD 35 one way.

Bus travel can be slower and less flexible, but it’s often the most affordable option for budget-conscious travelers.

Budget-Friendly Tips for Your Ontario Road Trip

• Use Gas Apps: Apps like GasBuddy can help you find the cheapest gas stations along your route.
• Pack Snacks and Drinks: Save on food expenses by packing your own snacks, especially for long stretches between destinations.
• Stay at Budget Accommodations: Look for motels, inns, or budget-friendly hotels. Booking in advance can often save you money.
• Take Advantage of Free Attractions: Ontario has many beautiful parks and nature reserves that are free to explore, including hiking trails and beaches.

FAQs About Ontario Road Trips

What is the best time to take a road trip in Ontario?

The best time is late spring to early fall, especially for enjoying the outdoors. Fall is particularly beautiful for its foliage.

Can I travel from Toronto to Niagara Falls without a car?

Yes, you can take the GO Train or Greyhound Bus, both offering regular routes from Toronto to Niagara Falls.

Are there any free attractions in Ontario during road trips?

Yes, many provincial parks, such as Algonquin Park, offer free entry. Be sure to check for free hiking trails and natural sights along the way.

How much should I budget for a road trip from Toronto to Muskoka?

A road trip to Muskoka can cost around CAD 30-50 for gas, depending on your vehicle. Accommodations may cost CAD 100-200 per night during peak season.

Conclusion

Ontario offers a wealth of diverse and exciting road trip destinations, each with unique attractions, scenic routes, and opportunities for adventure. Whether you’re heading to Niagara Falls, exploring the vineyards of Prince Edward County, or immersing yourself in the charm of Muskoka, Ontario’s road trips are perfect for family getaways or relaxing solo journeys. Plan your trip, consider your fare options, and get ready to create lasting memories on your Ontario road trip adventure!