Best Weekend Getaway from Toronto

Do you need a break but only have a weekend to relax? Then, a weekend getaway from Toronto is for you. Whether it’s family-friendly, couple-centric, or ideas for the single someone, we’ve got you covered. Consider this your Toronto getaway planner with tips on where to eat, where to stay, what to do to, and how to chill.

Weekend Getaways for Families

Is it a family weekend getaway without a short drive? Niagara Falls is filled with wilderness and wonder for kids of all ages. Great Wolf Lodge combines everything you need while being in proximity to other local Niagara Falls attractions. Restaurants, pools, a water park, and even a spa make this your ideal Niagara Falls headquarters.

Let’s not forget the awe-inspiring falls, where you can get plenty of selfies or take an exciting Niagara River Gorge Jet Boat Adventure. It’s the ultimate whitewater boating experience, but still child-friendly, on the safe side of the Niagara gorge.

After the exhilaration of the river, head to the Niagara SkyWheel, which provides you with a bird’s-eye view 53 meters above the falls from the comfort of your private gondola. This ride is even more spectacular at night when you can see all the city lights.

A trip to Niagara Falls isn’t complete without a trip on the Maid of the Mist. This is the iconic boat ride to the foot of the raging falls.

And remember, if you’re on a tight budget, there’s plenty of other hotels right in the heart of all the action. You’ll still be close to arcades, restaurants, attractions, and of course, the falls.

Weekend Getaways for Couples

Nothing says romance more than a trip to wine country. Although most people are drawn to the popular Niagara-on-the-Lake area for wine tours, you might want to try Prince Edward County.

The County offers the pristine white beaches of Sandbanks Provincial Park, lovely vistas, and of course, plenty of wine and beer to sample. It’s located close to Belleville, so you can find very affordable accommodations or choose to stay on the “island” itself. One of the funkier, on-trend hotels, Drake Motor Inn, offers a romantic stay with a retro vibe.

Lunch calls for a visit to County Cider Company, where you can sample a wide selection of ciders made with locally grown fruit. Enjoy an eclectic selection of Ontario-influenced food on the patio with an unparalleled view of Lake Ontario and the estate’s orchards.

Some of the more unique experiences for couples in Belleville include a trip to Lake on the Mountain Provincial Park to take in the stunning views of the Bay of Quinte. While in town on your romantic getaway, you can pop into Lake on the Mountain Brewing Company to sample some of their best brews in their secret beer garden.

For a lovely and romantic dinner, make reservations at Blumen Garden Bistro to enjoy gourmet food in a cozy, upscale cottage setting.

Weekend Getaways for Singles

Travelling solo is all about “me time” and downtime, alone and uninterrupted. So, what activities for singles do you start with?

If you love cooking or want to become a better cook, book yourself in for the Cooking in the County package at The Waring House. Located in the serene Prince Edward County, the unique cooking class experience covers recipes, instructions, and the prep of a delicious meal. Whether you’re a novice or foodie, it’s also a great place to meet fellow lovers of local and fresh food.

If you love the theatre, then Stratford is just the ticket. The Stratford Festival offers an exceptional Shakespearean experience, just a two-hour drive from Toronto. The city is also known for the scenic parkland along the Avon River. Fine dining, local boutiques, and interesting architecture add to this Ontario attraction. You can stay at a local B&B to add a little more charm to your getaway.

If you seek peace and solace, Idlewyld Inn & Spa in London offers a full-service spa inside an 1878 Victorian mansion. Here, you’ll discover the overwhelming elegance of a bygone era, combined with the sophisticated amenities of today. Exclusive fine dining, first-class spa services, and accommodating staff will make your escape unforgettable.

Weekend Getaways for the Outdoors

You can drive in practically any direction from Toronto and arrive at a provincial park. One of the closest weekend getaway options offering everything you need, including trails, beaches, camping, and local flair, is Presqu’ile in Brighton. It’s known for birdwatching, beaches, and biking and hiking trails, so you can spend the day enjoying what nature has to offer along the shores of Lake Ontario.

After a long day in the great outdoors, you can hunker down at a local hotel or take a short drive to Cobourg or Port Hope. Both towns offer excellent accommodation and dining options for the outdoors types.

If you’re up for a slightly longer drive that’s well worth it, head north to Algonquin Park. This massive park offers 7,653 km² of the stunning Canadian landscape, from rivers to lakes and mountains to woodlands. You can spend the weekend canoeing, hiking, biking, or climbing your way to some of the most exceptional views Ontario offers. Relax in one of the local charming cottage rentals, campsites, or motels after a day in the fresh air.

Popular Killbear Provincial Park in Parry Sound gives you a taste of Muskoka with gorgeous beaches, massive rock formations, and beautiful trails. You can camp or spend your evenings in Parry Sound for exceptional dining or at any of the many comfy lodgings nearby.

Weekend Getaways for the Carless

No car? No problem. You can channel your inner gambler with an easy, affordable trip to one of Ontario’s many casinos. Whether you’re looking at Casino Rama in the Barrie-Orillia area or Fallsview Casino in Niagara Falls, you’ll be getting in on the action in no time. You can hop on public transportation to get to either of these attractions. Short trips from anywhere in Toronto, whether by subway, streetcar, bus, or rideshare, will get you to the GO train, which has lines to Barrie regularly and Niagara Falls during the summer. Once you’ve arrived, accommodations, food, and gambling are all right there, and no car is required thanks to the many bus tours available.

If you’re carless, and the casino isn’t your style, a Fully Guided Niagara Wine Tour, with Transport is in order. From transportation to sampling, and stop-offs for lunch to behind-the-scenes tours of your favourite wineries, you’ll be toasting the town without the need for a car! Plenty of hotels are available in Niagara wine country for a good night’s sleep before heading home.

With these tempting options, booking your weekend getaway from Toronto is easy!