Bay of Quinte
The Bay of Quinte is located on the north shore of Lake Ontario and is host to sandy beaches, clear blue lakes and lush green golf courses. So whether your go-to vacation activity is fishing, kayaking, paddleboarding, golfing or wine tasting, you'll find options here.
Other reasons to go: There's much to do in this region — catch a live show at the Stirling Festival Theatre, or bring along your fav history buff and learn some town lore at the Glanmore National Historic site.
Drive from Toronto: 2.5 hours
Muskoka
Muskoka has been coined "The Malibu of the North" because even celebrities flock here to vacation, and what's good enough for the stars will hopefully meet your standards too. North of Toronto, the region actually has over 1,600 lakes so there's a lot to discover.
Other reasons to go: This is a place best enjoyed dockside, in an iconic Muskoka chair, at a cottage by the water. Add in a boat ride on the lakes or into the many surrounding ports with cute restaurants and shops and you'll make the most of your vacation.
Drive from Toronto: 2-3 hours
Niagara Region
Downtown Niagara-on-the-Lake.
This suggestion may have locals rolling their eyes since Niagara Falls isn't necessarily the most original suggestion, it's also a notorious tourist hot spot, but there are so many fun things to do in the area that it's still worth a visit.
Other reasons to go: Beyond the Falls, there are several historic towns nearby to check out — Niagara-on-the-Lake is often referred to as the prettiest town in Ontario, and neighbouring St. Catharines has some of the best wineries in the country.
Drive from Toronto: 2 hours
Ottawa
It's not news that Ottawa is a beautiful place to visit. Between the historic neo-Gothic Parliament Buildings and picturesque canal views, there's a lot to admire. But there are so many things to do in Ottawa beyond sightseeing, and exploring them will help to make a vacation here feel less like your eighth-grade social studies field trip.
Other reasons to go: Ottawa has a thriving food scene, which makes patio and bar hopping, in any season, a must. For outdoorsy types, there is no shortage of parks, hikes and rivers to visit in the surrounding area.
Drive from Toronto: 4.5 hours
Prince Edward County
Prince Edward County is among the go-to destinations for local winos. Boasting internationally renowned vineyards, it also has a growing food scene and plenty of breweries. But if you're not into grapes, PEC is on the eastern shore of Lake Ontario and home to Sandbanks Provincial Park, which has some of the best sandy beaches in the province.
Other reasons to go: Don't miss out on productions from The Festival Players theatre company, or make plans to attend the Annual Great Canadian Cheese Festival in Picton to indulge in great cheeses, wines and craft beers.
Drive from Toronto: 2.5 hours
Thousand Islands
Arial view of Thousand Islands region.
The Thousand Islandsis something out of a fairytale. It's even got castles! Situated on the St. Lawrence River, separating Canada and the US, the region has a mix of both Canadian and American cultures, which offers a unique experience for visitors.
Other reasons to go: There are several outdoor activities for you to do, including hiking in the Thousand Islands National Park and canoeing down the river. Boat tours, fine dining, shopping and live shows are also plentiful in the area.
Drive from Toronto: 3 hours
Tobermory
Tobermory is one of these destinations that every Ontarian has to visit at least once in their life. It's an outdoorsy vacation haven because of the Bruce Peninsula National Park, which has some of the most beautiful landforms, greenery and crystal clear waters in Ontario.
Other reasons to go: Apart from being a nature paradise, there are also several quaint shops and cozy restaurants that will warm you up after your outdoor adventures.
Drive from Toronto: 4 hours
So, travellers — go forth and vacation!
This article has been updated since it was originally published on July 12, 2016.
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.
