From lakeside cities to cozy small towns, there's a lot to explore without stressing about traffic.
Here are six VIA Rail trips from Toronto that are under 3 hours away.
St. Marys
Price: $70 + per adult round trip
Distance from Toronto: 2 hours and 45 minutes
Why you need to go: You can enjoy endless charm and cozy vibes in this small town.
St. Marys is a beautiful riverside gem with historic stone shops, delicious restaurants, and a peaceful atmosphere.
The station is located right downtown, so you don't have to go far to enjoy attractions, cafes, and shops. From cozy bookstores to thrift stores, the village has plenty of spots to explore.
During the summer months, you can head to St. Marys Quarry, known as "Canada's largest outdoor freshwater swimming pool."
You can also enjoy some local history at spots like the St. Marys Museum, or explore baseball memorabilia at the Canadian Baseball Hall of Fame & Museum.
St. Marys Tourism Website
Gananoque
Price: $82 + per adult round trip
Distance from Toronto: 2 hours and 50 minutes
Why you need to go: Set in the heart of Ontario's breathtaking Thousand Islands region, this picturesque waterfront town is a hidden summer gem.
As the destination's tourism website notes, you can take in "breathtaking views from all angles and discover the warmth and hospitality of the people that call this place home."
The town offers lots of character, with heritage streets, local boutiques and historic buildings that will transport you back in time.
It's a great place to visit if you love the outdoors. From paddling around the waters to scenic hikes, parks, and more, there's no shortage of things to do.
You can set out on sightseeing cruises through the Thousand Islands, spend time by the water at nearby beaches, or catch a live show at the local theatre for a classic small-town evening.
1000 Islands Tourism Website
Cobourg
Price: $42 + per adult round trip
Distance from Toronto: 1 hour and 10 minutes
Why you need to go: If you're dreaming of soft-sand shores and days spent in the sun, it's worth adding this beach town to your summer bucket list.
Set on the shores of Lake Ontario, Cobourg is a charming destination with a long stretch of soft sand and scenic waterfront.
You can spend the day at the beach, which boasts white-sand shores, sparkling waves, and a boardwalk.
Cobourg's downtown is lined with quaint buildings, independent shops, cafes and restaurants, making it easy to turn a beach day into a full afternoon of exploring.
The town is also home to landmarks like Victoria Hall, a 19th-century building located in the downtown, as well as nearby green spaces like Victoria Park.
Experience Cobourg Website
Stratford
Price: $58 + per adult round trip
Distance from Toronto: 2 hours and 17 minutes
Why you need to go: If you're craving a getaway complete with historic charm and European vibes, Stratford is the place to go.
Located just a train ride away from Toronto, the city offers major small-town vibes and endless things to enjoy, no matter what season.
Nestled along the Avon River, Stratford has a peaceful atmosphere complete with historic architecture, cute boutiques, bookstores and cozy spots to stop for coffee or lunch.
The city is perhaps best known for the renowned Stratford Festival, which transforms the destination into a cultural hotspot from spring through fall with Shakespearean plays, musicals and contemporary productions.
Outside the theatres, the arts scene continues through public art, galleries and creative local shops scattered throughout downtown.
You can take a stroll through the Shakespearean Gardens, wander the riverside paths, or follow some of the region's food trails, which lead to delicious stops.
One of the biggest perks of taking the train is how effortless it is. Stratford's VIA Rail station is located close to the core, so many of the city's best attractions, restaurants and scenic spots are just a short walk from the platform, making it an easy car-free escape.
Visit Stratford Website
Kingston
Price: $70 + per adult round trip
Distance from Toronto: 2 hours and 25 minutes
Kingston is a beautiful getaway from Toronto, offering waterfront scenery, historic sites, and a lively downtown.
You can head to the Kingston Public Market, the oldest public market in Ontario, where local vendors, fresh food and artisan finds add to the city's lively atmosphere.
The main street is lined with limestone buildings, tucked-away courtyards and narrow alleyways to explore, and you can enjoy an ice cream or coffee as you wander along the sidewalks.
The city is full of landmarks, whether you're interested in military history, architecture or unusual attractions. Some highlights include Kingston Penitentiary, Fort Henry and the Kingston Trolley Tours.
The city offers something to enjoy year-round, from winter skating and fall ghost tours to outdoor movies in the warmer months.
Visit Kingston Website
Port Hope
Price: $40 + per adult round trip
Distance from Toronto: 58 minutes
Why you need to go: Located just a short train trip from Toronto, Port Hope is a beautiful spot to soak up some small-town charm.
Perched on the shores of Lake Ontario, Port Hope is home to a cozy downtown and has the "best-preserved heritage main street" in the province, according to Northumberland Tourism.
You can enjoy some of its beautiful sand beaches or stroll along the main street, popping into the local shops and eateries.
The town also offers self-guided tours, which take you to historic sites and filming locations.
Visit Port Hope 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.
