This 1-hour train ride from Toronto takes you to a quaint small town with 2 soft-sand beaches
It's a dreamy spot for a weekend getaway.
A small town in Ontario.
You don't need a car to travel to this quaint Ontario town with dreamy beaches. This train ride from Toronto will whisk you away to this enchanting destination, and it's a beautiful spot for a weekend escape.
You can enjoy storybook streets, cozy shops, soft-sand shores and old-world vibes without stressing about the traffic.
Port Hope is a beautiful small town perched along the shores of Lake Ontario. It's known for its 19th-century architecture and has the "best preserved main street in the province," according to its website.
It's just over an hour's drive from Toronto, or you can take a 1-hour train ride on VIA Rail, which takes you right to Port Hope's downtown. Since the train departs Toronto in the evening and returns in the afternoon, it's ideal for a weekend getaway.
There are several heritage inns and chic hotels steps from the downtown where you can book a stay.
You can stroll along the main strip, exploring the charming boutiques and eateries brimming with local goods. Cozy bookshops, inviting cafes and picturesque flower stores line the storybook streets.
Port Hope is a great spot to visit during the summer months, as it's home to two sandy beaches — East Beach and West Beach. West Beach is just a 5-minute walk from the train station, making it a convenient spot to visit.
In addition to its beaches and quaint shops, Port Hope is home to a local theatre, an art emporium, and hiking trails that offer stunning views.
Tickets for the VIA Rail train to Port Hope start at $20 one-way per adult.
If you're planning a weekend escape but don't have a car, Port Hope is a charming summer destination to explore. If you're just interested in visiting for a day, you could take Flixbus, which travels from Union Station to Port Hope in the morning and returns in the evening.
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.