This lakeside town near Toronto is a spring gem with storybook streets and dreamy harbours

It's a magical spot for a spring day trip.

Lead Writer, Travel

Looking for a quick day trip from Toronto? This charming town boasts lake views, quaint streets, cute shops and more, making it an idyllic spot for a spring escape.

Oakville is a picturesque gem perched along the shores of Lake Ontario, about 40 minutes away from Toronto. The town is full of springtime charm and offers a range of events and things to do this season.

"Oakville is just moments away from anything you could want – lush green spaces, a beautiful waterfront, a charming downtown filled with unique boutiques, delicious dining, and an amazing arts and culture scene," Rebecca Edgar, Executive Director, Visit Oakville, said in a press release.

"This season, we encourage everyone to explore what our vibrant town has to offer."

Some seasonal highlights of the area include Spring Time on the Farm at Bronte Creek Provincial Park, where you can enjoy historical demonstrations and cute farm animals, and Bronte Lake Notes, which features free live music in the park.

You can also check out events like the Oakville Family Ribfest and Oakville Festivals of Film & Art, both taking place in June. A full list of spring events in Okaville is available on the website.

With over 200 kilometres of trails, the area is a beautiful place for a spring stroll. You'll want to visit Gairloch Gardens and Neyagawa Park for enchanting blooms and cherry blossoms.

You can grab an ice cream cone and explore the quaint shops, check out some of the town's many delicious restaurants, or stroll along the picturesque harbours for a dreamy spring outing.

Oakville is accessible by GO Transit and VIA Rail from Toronto, so you don't need a car to visit this quaint spot.

Visit Oakville Website

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.

  • Lead Writer

    Madeline Forsyth is a Toronto-based Lead Writer for Narcity Media. After earning her B.A. (Hons) at Queen's University, she spent a year travelling much of the world as a flight attendant. Now, she uses her experience in the travel industry and passion for writing to share stories about buzzworthy events and adventures across Canada and the globe. Madeline has been published in PopSugar and has interviewed sports and entertainment personalities for Narcity. She has covered and photographed restaurant openings as well as event launches such as the world premiere of the Dr. Seuss Experience. Some of her favourite things to write about include charming small towns and anything to do with Harry Potter.

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