11 beautiful day trips from Toronto that feel like a whole different country
No plane ticket required.
A beach in Ontario. An Ontario winery.
You don't have to leave the province in order to enjoy some vacation vibes. These 11 destinations are a day trip from Toronto and feel like a whole different country.
From harbour villages with a New England feel to dreamy beaches that will whisk you away to the tropics, these spots let you enjoy a majestic getaway without a lengthy flight.
Here are 11 beautiful day trips near Toronto that will transport you to another country.
The Cheltenham Badlands
Price: $10 + per vehicle
Distance from Toronto: 1 hour
When: 2025 reopening date to be announced
Address: 1739 Olde Base Line Rd., Caledon, ON
Why You Need To Go: You can take a trip to Arizona without even leaving Ontario. The Cheltenham Badlands are a short drive from Toronto and will have you feeling like you're wandering through the desert.
According to the website, it's "one of Ontario's geological treasures" and was formed at the base of an ancient sea around 450 million years ago.
Muskoka
Distance from Toronto: 2.5 hours
Why You Need To Go: Feeling like a getaway to the Hamptons? Ontario has its own version of this dreamy vacay spot.
Muskoka is known as the "Hamptons of the North" and features luxurious cottages, glimmering lakes and sun-filled beaches.
It's also a celeb hotspot — you never know who you could run into!
Stratford
Distance from Toronto: 2 hours
Why You Need To Go: This European-like city has British roots and was named after Stratford-upon-Avon in England. You can imagine you're in the U.K. as you wander along the quaint streets, catch a theatre performance and stroll through scenic parks and lush gardens.
There are lots of restaurants to enjoy, so you'll want to bring your appetite.
Cobourg Beach
Distance from Toronto: 1.5 hours
Address: 138 Division St., Cobourg, ON
Why You Need To Go: Craving a taste of the tropics? You'll want to keep Cobourg Beach in mind for a summer day trip. With white sand shores and crystal waves, it's a beautiful spot to soak up some sun.
According to the website, you'll "swear you’re sitting somewhere ocean-side in the Caribbean."
The surrounding town is brimming with cute shops and eateries, making it an idyllic place to grab an ice cream, stroll along the shoreline, and enjoy a beachy escape—no passport required.
Fergus
Distance from Toronto: 1.5 hours
Why You Need To Go: Fancy a trip to Scotland? This old-world town has Scottish roots, and it's like a little taste of Edinburgh.
Perched along the Grand River, the historic town has a main street lined with stone buildings where you can find all sorts of unique treasures.
You can also enjoy the annual Scottish Festival for even more highland charm.
Port Stanley
Distance from Toronto: 2 hours
Why You Need To Go: This charming harbour village will transport you to the East Coast without a plane ride. With colourful buildings, warm waters and sandy beaches, it's a beautiful summer destination.
You can lounge on the powder-white shoreline, stroll along the quaint streets and enjoy some ice cream for an idyllic summer day.
Niagara-on-the-Lake
Distance from Toronto: 1.5 hours
Why You Need To Go: You can step into a European fairytale at this Ontario Village. Niagara-on-the-Lake is known for its old-world charm and Victorian-era downtown.
Brimming with restaurants, spas, boutiques and more, it's a great spot to spend a day.
You'll feel like you're vacationing in France or Italy as you explore the surrounding wineries, where you can wander through lush vineyards and sip boozy drinks.
Sandbanks Provincial Park
Distance from Toronto: 2.5 hours
Address: 3004 County Rd. 12, Picton, ON
Why You Need To Go: With rolling white sand dunes and turquoise waters, this provincial park feels like a little slice of the Caribbean.
This summer destination boasts three soft-sand beaches where you can enjoy a tropical escape.
You can spend the day lounging on the shoreline, exploring the trails, swimming in the crystal water, or exploring the nearby small town of Picton.
Blue Mountain Village
Distance from Toronto: 2.5 hours
Address: 156 Jozo Weider Blvd., The Blue Mountains, ON
Why You Need To Go: You'll be transported to Switzerland as you explore this quaint pedestrian village. With cobblestone streets and charming buildings, it feels like a whole other country.
You can enjoy major Swiss Alps vibes during the winter, when the area transforms into a snowy wonderland with ski hills and ice rinks.
During the summer months, the Village comes alive with festivals, outdoor movies and sun-filled patios.
St. Jacobs Village
Distance from Toronto: 1.5 hours
Why You Need To Go: This old-world destination will whisk you back in time as you explore its quaint streets and historic buildings. The area was settled in the early 1800s by primarily German emigrants, and the heritage is still evident in its charming architecture and traditions today.
You can enjoy a meal at one of the cozy bakeries or delicious restaurants, which are brimming with homemade goods and more.
There are lots of local shops to visit, where you'll find a range of unique items and treasures.
The renowned St. Jacobs Farmers' Market is a must-visit. It's Canada's largest market of its kind and is brimming with fresh produce, sweet treats and more.
Wasaga Beach
Distance from Toronto: 1 hour and 45 minutes
Adress: Wasaga Beach, ON
Why You Need To Go: Wasaga Beach is the longest freshwater beach in the world and will have you feeling like you've taken a trip to Miami.
You can relax on the sandy beach, take a dip in the shimmering waters and soak up some sun for a dreamy summer adventure.
The town has shops and restaurants where you can enjoy a cold drink after a day spent outside.
Before you get going, check out our Responsible Travel Guide so you can be informed, be safe, be smart, and most of all, be respectful on your adventure.