Weekend Ontario Road Trips You Can’t Miss

Ontario is one of our favorite provinces in Canada and there is only one way to really experience its beauty—a road trip! With its diverse landscapes, charming small towns, and busy cities, Ontario is that girl when it comes to road trips.

And what’s great about these road trips is you won’t need weeks living out of your rental Hyundai; just a few days will do the trick. These weekend Ontario road trips you can’t miss and we’ve got all the details for you.

Whether you’re headed north, south, east, or west, we’ve got you covered with some of the best road trips Ontario has to offer, so let’s jump in!

8 Best Weekend Ontario Road Trips

Ontario is a large province with some of Canada’s most notable cities and natural wonders. It’s home to the busy city of Toronto, the famous Niagara Falls, and vast stretches of beautiful forests and lakes. 

The province is so large that many people have lived in Ontario their whole lives and have never explored it fully. This is your chance to take a weekend Ontario road trip and see all the amazing places you’ve been missing out on.

Depending on what your starting point is and what you’re interested in, there are many different weekend road trip options to choose from. With some road trips leaving the foodie heaven of Toronto and others starting from the nation’s capital Ottawa, you can tailor your trip to your preferences and explore new destinations.

Either way, these weekend road trips will give you a taste of Ontario’s diversity and utter goodness.

What is the Ontario Region?

Ontario is located in the eastern central part of Canada. Its southern border is shared with the United States, with Michigan to its west and New York state to its east.

Ontario can be divided into different regions for travel purposes. These include the Greater Toronto Area (GTA), Central Ontario, Eastern Ontario, Northern Ontario, and Southwestern Ontario. Each of these regions has its own unique attractions and activities for travelers to experience.

Overall, the province is the second largest in Canada by land area and the most populous, with over 14 million residents. Yeah, that’s a lot of people and a lot of places to explore! It’s multicultural and dynamic and is one heck of a destination for all kinds of travelers.

1. Oxford County

One of our favorite weekend destinations in Ontario is Oxford County, especially if you’ve had enough of the big cities and want some good ol’ Canadian charm. Oxford County is located in Southwestern Ontario, about a 90-minute drive from Toronto or a 5-hour drive from Ottawa.

If you’re thinking the name sounds familiar, it’s because the county is home to the town of Woodstock, famous for hosting one of the most epic hippie-filled music festivals in history. However, there’s much more to see and do here than just relive your favorite 60s moments.

This is not the location of the famed Woodstock Festival, which was located in New York State but it is home to some of the most beautiful pastoral farmland, charming small towns like Tillsonburg, Ingersol, Otterville, and all kinds of unique experiences.

But dairy is the real show-stopper here. Oxford County is home to the “Dairy Capital of Canada” and produces some of the best cheese and ice cream in the country (yes, you need to try every flavor!) There are seriously over 20 businesses that offer some type of cheese and other dairy products, making it a great destination for foodies.

For all of our lactose lovers, we’ve compiled a 2 day Oxford County Cheese Trail itinerary. You’ll see that this is an awesome choose-your-own-adventure that spans the best cheesemakers in Canada and also many other local businesses that will blow you away.

Oxford County also has some awesome outdoor recreation activities to get your heart pumping. From hiking and cycling trails to water sports on the Thames River, there’s something for everyone. The area is also home to several conservation areas and parks, perfect for a day of exploring or a picnic with family and friends.

There are berry farms overflowing with plump red fruit in the summer. If you’re lucky, you’ll be able to pick your own fresh berries and enjoy them with some ice cream from a local dairy farm. Geez, we’re craving some summer berries now!

As far as road trips in Ontario go, Oxford County is truly a hidden gem.

2. Niagara Region

You can’t go to Ontario and miss out on the iconic natural wonder that is Niagara Falls. But beyond the famous waterfalls, the Niagara Region has so much more to offer for a fun Weekend Ontario Road Trip.

With 13 municipalities in the Niagara Region, your weekend will be packed with some of the country’s best wineries, restaurants, and scenic drives. Sadly, there will not be nearly enough time to do everything, but we’ve put together loads of itineraries to keep you busy.

Check out this 3 day adventure itinerary of Niagara Falls, our favorite Niagara Falls wine tours, and the top restaurants in Niagara-on-the-Lake, and we’ve also written an extensive Niagara Parks Power Station review.

But to give you an overview of what a weekend in Niagara could look like, here are some must-do activities in the Niagara Region.

The Niagara Escarpment is one of our favorite stops, with outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and even zip-lining. If you’re a fan of history and culture, don’t miss out on the Welland Canal and Fort George National Historic Site.

If you’re a fan of pretty places then you got to head to Niagara-on-the-Lake, it feels like walking straight into a postcard of the cutest town. With charming boutiques, eateries, and wineries, it’s a perfect place to spend an afternoon strolling around.

Of course, no trip to the Niagara Region is complete without experiencing the epic Niagara Falls up close. Take a boat ride or feel the rush from behind with a visit to Journey Behind the Falls.

Beyond the tourist attractions, the Niagara Region is also known for its delicious food and wine scene. From farm-to-table restaurants to award-winning wineries, you will be overindulged with reds, whites, and everything in between.

You can even take a bike tour through the Niagara wine country, stopping at different wineries along the way and enjoying tastings of their finest creations. Surprisingly, staying on a bike for a little boozy adventure isn’t as difficult as you may think!

But above all, make sure to take some time to simply relax and enjoy the beauty of nature in Niagara. With its stunning parks, you’ll be amazed by the pure beauty of the scenery.

For the visual planners, we’ve also produced a number of videos with Visit Niagara that covers the adventures in Niagara, Niagara Parks Power Station, fall colours, unexpected culinary experiences, drinks in Lincoln, the Lakeshore Route, and fall harvest.

If you’re looking to put together one of the best scenic road trips in Ontario, you have to include Niagara Falls, The Niagara Parkway, stay a night in Niagara-on-the-Lake, see the Toronto skyline on a clear day from Port Dalhousie, be in awe of the giant ships that pass through the Welland Canal at Port Colborne through the charming town of Jordan Station.

3. Algonquin

For a wintery wonderland and one of the best weekend Ontario Road Trips, make your way to Algonquin Provincial Park. This iconic Canadian destination is known for its stunning lakes, forests, and wildlife, making it the perfect spot for outdoor adventure. And it’s just really beautiful. If you still have any iPhone storage (no one does) then this is where you’ll use the rest of it up, ha!

Algonquin Provincial Park is one of the best Ontario Parks there is. Home to a vast wilderness of forests, rivers, lakes, moose, bears, logging history, campsites, and trails, it doesn’t get any more Canadian than this. And while it’s known for its summertime activities like camping, canoeing, and hiking, Algonquin is just as magical in the winter months.

A weekend will only give you the tip of the iceberg when it comes to exploring Algonquin, but it’s so worth it, and hey, who says you can’t come back for more? To get the most out of your trip, consider staying in Huntsville as a hub, this will give you access to Algonquin Provincial Park from the West Gate and Arrowhead Provincial Park from the East Gate. Both parks are out of this world for hiking, but Arrowhead is where you can find one of the best skating trails in the province.

During your weekend at Algonquin, you can explore the park’s various trails on snowshoes or cross-country skis. Depending on how much time you have, there are plenty of options to choose from for all levels of adventurers. You can also try your hand at ice fishing on one of the park’s many frozen lakes or take a scenic drive along Highway 60 where you might spot some wildlife. The moose are literally ginormous, so keep your eyes peeled!

At night, cozy up in a rustic cabin or tent and listen to the sounds of nature as you fall asleep. And if you’re lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of the extraterrestrial Northern Lights dancing across the sky.

No matter what season you go, you’ll be able to find beauty in Algonquin which you’ll see in our winter adventures in Muskoka and a 4 day Algonquin portage.

4. Hamilton

For a springtime road trip in Ontario, you’ve gotta pack your bags and head over to the city of Hamilton. Known as the waterfall capital of the world, there are over 100 waterfalls within a short driving distance from each other. We’ve even made a guide to the best waterfalls of Hamilton to make it easy for you!

Because of the Niagara Escarpment that cuts through the city, there are loads of steep drops and cliffs that make for the perfect conditions for waterfalls. Keep an eye out for Webster’s Falls, Tews Falls, and Albion Falls to name a few! And in the spring, as the snow is melting, the waterfalls are in full force, and you’ve gotta see it to believe it.

What you’ll love about Hamilton’s waterfalls is that they’re all easily accessible and most don’t require too much hiking to get to. The only thing to be aware of is the parking is tragic, especially during the summer and on the weekends. We know it’s hard to take days off but trust us, the weekdays are the way to go if possible! 

Another thing to note is that some of the more popular waterfalls have an entry fee. But don’t worry, most are just a few dollars per person, and it all goes towards maintaining the trails and keeping them open for everyone to enjoy.

Besides the waterfalls, Hamilton is also home to some amazing hiking trails with stunning views of Lake Ontario and the surrounding areas. Some popular options include Dundas Peak, Devil’s Punchbowl, and the Bruce Trail. If you’re feeling adventurous, there are also plenty of opportunities for rock climbing and mountain biking.

For a taste of city life, check out downtown Hamilton where you’ll find an eclectic mix of restaurants, bars, and cultural attractions. Be sure to check out the Royal Botanical Gardens for a stunning display of flowers and gardens, or take a stroll through Dundurn Castle for some history and beautiful architecture.

While you’re in Hamilton, you’ll get an appreciation for how the city is much more than its moniker of being a Steel Town. There is a surprising wealth of culinary, art, history, and outdoor experiences here.

5. Thousand Islands

Getting out of Ottawa and heading east, you’ll come across the stunning region of Thousand Islands. Located between Canada and the United States, this area is made up of 1,864 scattered islands along the Saint Lawrence River.

If you’re a busybody who wants your road trips to be full of activities, Thousand Islands will keep you moving. It’s a hub of outdoor experiences, both on land and water, making it a great road trip destination in Ontario.

With your car, you’ll be able to explore the small-town charm of Gananoque, which is considered to be the “gateway to the Thousand Islands”. You’ll find unique shops, some of the best fish and chips, as well as opportunities for kayaking, fishing, and boating.

With Gananoque as your base, you’ll be able to enter Thousand Islands National Park and take a Thousand Islands cruise to see the famous archipelago. Along the way, you’ll see the smallest international bridge and also Boldt Castle on Heart Island.

The unique destination is also home to two UNESCO Designated Biosphere Reserves, Frontenac Arch and the Rideau Canal. These areas are perfect for hiking, biking, camping, and bird-watching.

In the evening, grab a pint at the Gan Brewing Company, watch a show at the Thousand Islands Playhouse, and watch a sunset from Sculpture Park.

Before you leave Thousand Islands, make sure to take a detour to Kingston, known as the “Limestone City” for its beautiful architecture. Here you can explore Fort Henry National Historic Site and take in the stunning views of Lake Ontario.

6. Bruce Peninsula

Get away from skyscrapers and head to the gorgeous waters of the Bruce Peninsula. Located on the northern tip of the Niagara Escarpment, this national park boasts turquoise waters, rugged cliffs, and stunning vistas.

This is one of our favorite weekend camping spots in Ontario because it’s a great place to relax, hike, swim, and spot wildlife.

The experience starts as you take Highway 6 through towns such as Fergus, Chatsworth, Owen Sound, and Wiarton before you make your way up the Bruce Peninsula. Make sure to read our article on hidden waterfalls near Toronto. You can either incorporate it into your weekend or do it as a day trip. Either way, you gotta check it out!

At the end of the road is the harbor village of Tobermory. Oof, make sure to bring your appetite because holy cow, the fish and chips here are out of the world. The flaky batter is filled with perfection, and the fish fillets are big. This town is also where you’ll find the ferry that will take you to Flowerpot Island, another one of those must-dos when visiting the Bruce Peninsula.

But let’s not forget about what draws most people to Bruce Peninsula National Park – the Grotto! A natural sea cave with crystal-clear blue water, this is the perfect spot for swimming and cliff jumping. On a warm day, the turquoise waters will feel more like you’re in the Mediterranean rather than Canada.

For those looking for a more dry experience, there are plenty of hiking trails that wind through the park’s rugged terrain. With over 20 km of trails, you can explore various landscapes including forests, cliffs, and shoreline. Keep an eye out for wildlife such as black bears, foxes, and deer.

Camping is a popular way to experience Bruce Peninsula National Park. The park offers both frontcountry and backcountry camping options. Frontcountry campsites are located near amenities such as washrooms and showers, while backcountry sites require a short hike to reach them. Whichever option you choose, sleeping under the stars in this beautiful park is an experience like no other.

Other spots not to miss are Lion’s Head Provincial Nature Reserve, Black Creek Provincial Park, and Greig’s Caves which showcase the incredible landscape of the region.

READ MORE: A perfect weekend in Tobermory

If you have more than a weekend, a car ferry over to Manitoulin Island is something you should definitely look into!

7. Kawarthas

The Kawarthas region is a popular summer destination for Ontarians looking to escape the city and enjoy some time on the water. And those people would be right! This region is home to over 250 lakes and rivers, making it the perfect weekend road trip for water lovers.

It’s also one of the easiest regions to get to from Toronto, with a drive time of only 1.5 hours, and has some of the most beautiful lakefront properties to really feel like you’re on vacation.

What makes the entire Kawarthas unique is the Trent-Severn Waterway, a scenic 386 km route of lakes, rivers, locks, and canals managed by Parks Canada. There are a total of 45 locks with 18 of them in the Kawartha Region between Kirkfield and Peterborough.

Fun fact: The Trent-Severn Waterway is known to be one of the highest hydraulic lift locks in the world. It’s called Lock 21 which connects Lake Ontario and Lake Huron with a height difference of 20 meters.

During your road trip through here, you’ll want to plan several stops at locks along the way. It really is a masterpiece watching boats navigate through the locks and taking in the beautiful scenery along the way.

Towns are centralized around many of the locks so after you’re done watching boats pass through, you’ll be able to spend time exploring the communities of the Kawarthas. A weekend through here will allow you to explore Bobcaygeon, Lindsay, Fenelon Falls, Buckhorn, Kirkfield, and Peterborough.

The thing we love most about the Kawarthas is there isn’t this long list of must-dos that you need to check out. On this Ontario road trip, you are able to enjoy the outdoors, relax, and take in some small-town charm.

Make sure to bring a cooler so you can pack one (or many) tubs of Kawartha Dairy Ice Cream.

8. Prince Edward County

You know those gorgeous lavender fields you always see on Instagram? They’re located in none other than Prince Edward County! This charming area is known for its picturesque scenery, quaint towns, and award-winning wineries and it’s one of the most wholesome weekend Ontario road trips.

Think picnics, microbreweries, art galleries, and cute boutiques. Located between Toronto and Kingston on the northeastern shore of Lake Ontario. If you take a look at the map, PEC is actually an island as well.

Over the years, this destination has really grown to become a weekend tripper’s dream with its cozy bed & breakfasts, Sandbanks Provincial Park, and impressive culinary scene. You won’t have a problem filling up your itinerary with all the things to do in Prince Edward County.

What’s drastically changed in the region is that no longer do people only come for PEC’s beaches and sand dunes but now they’ve become a ‘Gastronomic Capital of Ontario‘ thanks to its fertile land filled with organic farms, vineyards, fine-dining restaurants, and gourmet food trucks. We were blown away by how amazing the food was and are already planning to come back for more!

If you’re looking for a unique experience, make sure to check out PEC Lavender Farm which offers guided tours and workshops on all things lavender. And of course, no visit to PEC is complete without stopping by some wineries such as Norman Hardie Winery or Sandbanks Estate Winery. You can also take part in a wine tour to explore multiple wineries and learn about their unique processes.

But the experience of Prince Edward County goes beyond just food and wine. You can spend your days exploring the charming towns of Wellington, Bloomfield, and Picton filled with historic homes, boutique shops, and art galleries. For nature lovers, there are plenty of hiking and biking trails to explore, as well as opportunities for fishing, boating, and water sports on the lake.

As far as Ontario road trips that you can’t miss, Prince Edward County does not disappoint. You can easily spend a night at a boutique hotel such as Drake Devonshire, and have a nice weekend hopping around the island, or you can book a campsite and take in the stunning landscapes.

If you’re coming from Ottawa, consider taking the Glenora Ferry which can take cars and people from Kingston to Prince Edward County.

READ NEXT: 16 Popular and Secret Weekend Trips from Toronto

Road Trip Packing List

Any type of packing list really comes down to location and time of the year. If you decide to travel to Ontario in the winter months, plan on it being really cold and needing lots of layers. If you’re coming in the summer months, your list will be on the lighter side. Below are a few basic packing list essentials for every road trip, no matter the season.

• Hiking – With most of these road trip suggestions you read above, almost always we recommend a hike of some sort. Hiking comes with many terrain types so we suggest packing comfortable/water proof hiking boots/shoes, hiking gaiters, a water bottle to keep hydrated of course and your favorite set of hiking poles. Don’t forget your favorite hiking back pack to store all this in!
• Camping – Another activity we highly recommend in Ontario. Be sure to check out our full list of camping gear before your road trip. Some must haves include a sleeping pad like the Therm-A-Rest NeoAir XLite paired with the Therm-A-Rest Compressible Pillow, a powerbank to charge all your electronics in your tent, a comfy pair of sandals, and of course a sleeping bag! We always carry a headlamp with us when camping in case we need to see inside the tent or wonder outside the tent at night as well.
• Car chargers – If it’s a road trip then of course you’ll be in the car often. Car chargers for your gear is an absolute must.
• Toiletries – We always say when traveling anywhere to take a first aid kit. Sunscreen and bug repellent are a must as well!
• Snacks – What’s a road trip without your favorite car snacks?!

Ontario Road Trips Are Low-Key The Best

So now the only question is which epic road trip through Ontario is up first? I don’t know about you, but a visit to all the gorgeous wineries and breweries in Prince Edward County sounds like the perfect way to kick off a road trip season.

But then again, those waterfalls and caves along the Niagara Escarpment are calling my name too. Ugh, there are just too many good options! Luckily with 52 weeks in a year, you have plenty of time to explore all of Ontario’s incredible destinations.

Frequently Asked Questions