Published March 12th, 2023

With winter in our rearview mirror, the warm air of spring brings a renewed energy and rejuvenates our excitement to do short, safe travelling.
Whether you’re looking for scenic drives to enjoy the journey or the fastest way to adventure, there’s something for you.
Here are six delightful day trip options for that are great for families, friends, couples or solo adventurers.

The Big Apple - 1.5 hours from Toronto

Colborne’s popular roadside attraction has been around since 1987, with the photogenic Mr. Applehead being the visual attraction at 40 feet high and 38 feet wide. Chances are you’ve seen it if you’ve travelled the 401 between Toronto and Kingston.
This family friendly hot spot serves up a plethora of delicious apple-based treats, has an on-site restaurant, a colossal candy shop, an on-site brewery, a mini golf course and an observation deck at the top of the massive apple. There’s a dog park, two electric vehicle charging stations and whether it’s a stop on your way or your final destination for a day trip, it’s absolutely worth visiting.

Scenic Caves - 1.75 hours from Toronto

North of the city in The Blue Mountains is where you’ll find the versatile Scenic Caves.
This self-guided attraction lets you explore numerous caves at your leisure, cross a spectacular suspension bridge that s 420 feet long and 82 feet high, and with 15 km of trails, you’ll easily met your daily step count. Bring proper footwear as flip flops simply won’t cut it here.
With ample opportunities for beautiful pictures, be sure your camera and phone batteries are fully charged.

Hamilton’s Waterfalls - 1 hour from Toronto

Home to over 100 waterfalls, you’ll experience, short, tall, big and small waterfalls as each one is unique. Do some research before hand so you can group a few in per visit and check out local restaurants/shops in the area.
Consider starting with some of the smaller, less travelled ones first before you experience the popular ones as they’ll be less crowded and easier to enjoy.

Sandbank Provincial Park - 2.5 hours from Toronto

Boasting beautiful sandbanks and beaches, this gem within a gem in Prince Edward County is certainly worth adding to your destination list. With three beaches and over 600 campsites, plenty of walking and hiking trails, biking options, canoeing/kayaking options and of course, swimming, it’s a wonderful option to enjoy one of Ontario's best parks.
Plus, you can dip into town once you’re done and spend some time exploring some of the eight surrounding regions. The craft beer and wine scene here is worth the visit alone.

Niagara Glen - 1.25 hours from Toronto

In the depths of the Niagara Gorge lays four kilometres of twisting pathways in the Carolinian Forest. There’s nine different trails to traverse and while it sound like a lot, you they’re relatively short trails so you could cross them all off your list in one visit.
You’ll experience wonderful views of the Niagara River, along with the Niagara River Whirlpool. There are some steep areas and jagged rocks so be extra careful when you visit.
Oh, and for goodness sakes stay out of the water.

Trent-Severn Waterway - 2 hours from Toronto

There’s nothing quite like being on the water in the warmer months, especially here.
When you visit, you’ll have nearly 400km of connected lakes and rivers along the Trent-Severn Waterway to paddle on and through. Whether you’re kayaking or canoeing, soak in the natural beauty his Ontario gem offers and create lifelong memories.
This National Historic Site Of Canada is a great way to escape city-life, at least for a day and offers unmatched, fluid serenity.

6 Sweet Day Trips Within 3 Hours of Toronto