Ontario offers year-round options for a fun-filled weekend trip, and there is plenty of beauty and culture to be found. If you are looking for the best weekend getaways in Ontario, rest assured there are many places to choose from. And we’ve rounded them up all in one place for you.
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Best Weekend Getaways in Ontario
We have split our Ontario weekend getaways into categories, including romantic getaways, urban areas, resorts, outdoors, and family trips So let’s start with the top weekend getaways in Ontario to enjoy one of these lovely city breaks.
Best Weekend Getaway Spots – Cities and Towns
Ready to support local businesses, explore charming towns, and treat yourself to retail therapy? These are the best cities and towns for weekend getaways in Ontario. From small towns to major cities, this list offers a fantastic range to suit everyone’s interests.
1. Ottawa
Ottawa is our absolute favorite city in Ontario. It has an abundance of museums, historical sites, landmarks, nature, and an exciting food scene. It is home to countless things to do, including outdoor adventures on the Ottawa River, the Canadian National Gallery, the Canadian War Museum, and Parliament Hill making it the perfect place for a long weekend.
Visitors can fly straight into Ottawa from New York or Toronto or drive there from major cities like Montreal (which is a two-hour drive from Ottawa). The capital of Canada is a perfect year-round getaway.
Plan your trip to Ottawa
2. Niagara Falls
Niagara Falls is Canada’s most famous attraction and is a must visit in Ontario, featuring the largest waterfall in the world by volume. The town has everything you need for the perfect long weekend getaway in Ontario, from tourist attractions, restaurants, spas, and luxury hotels.
The whole family will love all the falls attractions, indoor waterparks such as Great Wolf Lodge where kids can have their own room within family room, countless restaurants and entertainment, plus access to many wineries nearby.
Getting there: It is is an hour’s drive from Hamilton and an hour and a half from Toronto. How to Get From Toronto to Niagara Falls – Bus, Train, Transit, And Car
Plan your trip to The Falls
- 25 Best Things to Do in Niagara Falls, Canada
- The Perfect 48 Hours in Niagara Falls, Canada
- 12 Fun Things to Do in Niagara Falls at Night
- How to Get From Toronto to Niagara Falls – Bus, Train, Transit, And Car
- The Clifton Hill Fun Pass in Niagara Falls: Is it Worth it?
- 15 Best Views of Niagara Falls
- Where to Stay in Niagara Falls – Best Areas
- Best accommodation option – Niagara Falls Marriott Fallsview Hotel & Spa
3. Toronto
Toronto has the best city scene in Ontario, and we called it home for 20 years. Its cityscape is recognized worldwide – from the CN Tower to its famed waterfront. If you want one of Ontario’s most iconic weekend getaways, Toronto is easily one of the top three.
Eat at Michelin Star restaurants, admire a mix of historic buildings and skyscrapers, samples local craft beer and cocktails at bars across the city or even spend time at the beach. There are also endless museums, outdoor activities and interactive adventures. The best way to see a lot of Toronto in a short time is on a day tour. Browse tours here.
Getting There: As the capital of Ontario it is a breeze to access with direct flights from around the world.
Best accommodation option in Toronto – The Ritz Carlton is our favorite in the city centre close to the Fairmont Royal York, Roy Thompson Hall and the Princess of Wales Theatre, The CN Tower, the Entertainment District, and the Harbourfront.
4. Kingston
The first capital of Canada is an amazing weekend trip. Located on Lake Ontario, The Rideau Canal, and the St. Lawrence River, Kingston is filled with historic charm, fine dining, and nightlife.
Make sure to book a tour of Kingston Penitentiary, Agnes Etherington Art Centre, Bellevue House National Historic Site, and Murney Tower National Historic Site of Canada. It is a stunning place to just explore on foot from the historic buildings of Queens University to the beautiful waterfront. You can also book Kingston Day Tours here.
Getting There: Kingston is located just a three-hour drive from Toronto or two hours and twenty minutes by train.
Best accommodation option in Kingston – Delta Hotels by Marriott Kingston Waterfront is beautiful, though. The three-star hotel features an indoor rooftop pool and an onsite restaurant.
5. Stratford
Known for its renowned Stratford Festival, visitors can enjoy world-class theatre productions from Shakespearean classics to contemporary plays.
The picturesque downtown area is perfect for leisurely strolls, with its boutique shops, cafes, and restaurants offering local delicacies. Don’t miss the Shakespearean Gardens and a stroll along the Avon River, where you can spot swans and enjoy the serene atmosphere.
Getting There: Stratford is easily accessible from major cities like Toronto and London, either by car or via a scenic train ride on VIA Rail.
Best Place to Stay:
6. Paris
Tiny downtown Paris was named the “Prettiest little town in Canada,” and it is certainly one of the best small towns to visit for a fun Ontario getaway. We may be slightly biased because Paris is our home town and we love our lifestyle with hiking and biking trails, great dining, spas, and scenery surrounding us. Downtown Paris has half a dozen excellent restaurants, local shops, and even a microbrewery, making for an ideal place for a road trip.
Apart from shopping and enjoying cafes of downtown Paris, you can try some activities like river tubing or kayaking on the Grand River, visiting Alexander Graham Bells House or cycling the Hubs of Ontario Trails. Read our complete guide: 27 Things to do in Paris Ontario – A Local’s Guide
Accommodation in Paris – The best accommodation in Paris is the Arlington Hotel located smack dab in the middle of downtown Paris. The Arlington Hotel hotel was established in 1851 and offers historical, chic accommodation.
7. Grand Bend
Grand Bend is another small town gem, perfect for an Ontario getaway. My family had a cottage here growing up and my parents retired here for about 10 years, so we know Grand Bend well.
Set on the shores of Lake Huron, Grand Bend offers a multitude of outdoor activities and its beach is always packed with people and activities. Nature lovers will enjoy a visit to Pinery Provincial Park for some camping. You can relax on a patio in one of the downtown restaurants. catch a show at Huron Country Playhouse, or enjoy its excellent beach.
Getting There: Grand Bend is approximately two hours from Hamilton and one hour from Windsor and is ideally situated for a relaxing getaway. Check out: 25 Best Places to Camp in Ontario, Canada
Best accommodation option in Grand Bend – Amber Hotel is the best accommodation option and is an excellent mid-range choice. You can check the property out on TripAdvisor here.
8. Elora
Elora is another of our favorite small towns and is best known for its 19th-century architecture and striking limestone buildings. The town was founded by Roman Catholic missionaries, and its name translates as ‘sun ray’ or ‘god is my light’ in Hebrew.
Elora is also located next to Elora Gorge – a dramatic gorge cutting through cliffs with the Grand River running through the middle. You can admire the gorge from multiple viewpoints. If you feel inspired for some adventure, go tubing or kayaking on a different section of the Grand River. Read more: 25 Day Trips from Toronto to Escape the City
Getting There: It is just an hour and a half from Toronto so book a hotel and stay for dinner.
Best accommodation option in Elora – The best accommodation option is Elora Mill Hotel & Spa. The historic hotel is set in an old riverside mill and features rooms with a fireplaces, a full service spa, gym, and yoga facilities.
Wine Region Getaways in Ontario
There’s something special about visiting wine regions. There are a surprising amount of wine regions in Ontario, and each place has its own charm with romantic hotels, outdoor adventures, and, of course, wine tastings.
9. Niagara on the Lake
Niagara-on-the-Lake is a small town located in not only the best wine region, but also one of the best vacation spots in Ontario. Filled with historic charm, this town in Ontario is packed with culture, from post-1812 war buildings like Old Fort York and Laura Secord’s house to world-class theater productions at the Shaw Festival.
Some of the best wineries for a wine tasting are Inniskillin, Peller Estates, Calamus Estate Winery, King’s Court Estate Winery, and Flat Rock Cellars. If you want a romantic getaway, book this wine tasting tours and a relaxing hotel for you and your significant other. In the winter, don’t miss visiting the Cie-Wine Festival.
Getting There: Niagara-on-the-Lake is 20 minutes from Niagara Falls, an hour’s drive from Hamilton and an hour and a half from Toronto.
Plan your trip to Niagara-on-the-Lake
10. Prince Edward County
Prince Edward County is an island community is known for its local artists, beautiful beaches, particularly Sandbanks Provincial Park, and world class wineries.
When you aren’t visiting the vineyars, consider stopping at Dunes Beach and Outlet Beach and Cedar Sands Nature trail. A short trail that follows the Outlet River and has beautiful marshland viewpoints.
Make sure to dine at Amelia’s Garden Restaurant. The fine dining restaurant prides itself on organic, seasonal produce and farm to table dishes. You can also book accommodatoin at Angeline’s Inn
Getting There: At just a two-hour drive from Toronto, the route is scenic too, and you’ll skirt along the north shores of Lake Ontario and its little lakeside towns.
Best accommodation option in Sandbanks – The best is Log Cabin Point Cottage Resort.
11. Lake Erie North Shore
Did you know that Lake Erie and Pelee Island are at the same latitude as Tuscany in Italy and Bordeaux in France? The Southern Ontario region is the oldest wine-producing area in Canada. The first winery opened in 1866. Since then, the region has been carving an ever-growing name for itself in the international wine industry.
Some of the best wineries are Pelee Island Winery, Pavillion, Copper’s Hawk Vineyards, Viewpointe Estate Winery, and Mastronardi Estate Winery. Sprucewood Shores Estate Winery is also Ontario’s only beachfront winery – a unique selling point, you’ll agree.
Getting There: Depending on which area you visit in the region, you can either drive a short distance from London or a few hours from Hamilton or Toronto.
Resort Getaways in Ontario
A resort getaway ticks a box that not much else can. These are the best resorts for all inclusive getaways in Ontario.
12. Sir Sam’s Inn and Spa
For the ultimate romantic getaway in Ontario a couples retreat should be on your list. Sir Sam’s Inn and Spa in Haliburton is a relaxing getaway in a dramatic stone-and-timber mansion.
The resort features every luxury from an indoor water spa to an outdoor heated pool with Eagle Lake views to snowmobile parking and private fireplaces. There is also a fine dining restaurant located directly onsite.
And when you aren’t enjoying outdoor activities around Haliburton, you can enjoy complimentary spa access to its waterspa. There are plenty of activities for both summer and winter trips from skiing and snowshoeing to boating and fishing. Book your weekend getaway here
Getting There: Sir Sam’s is a three and a half hour’s drive from Ottawa, so well-placed for a weekend of luxury.
13. Fern Resort
Fern Resort in Orillia is a beautiful family-friendly resort but also romantic for couples too. The resort sits next to Lake Couchiching, and its all-inclusive package includes complimentary meals and activities. You can explore the local area or enjoy onsite entertainment like cross-country skiing, giant chess, a spa, or ice skating.
It is ideal for those wanting an action-packed, family-friendly resort experience. See more details here.
Getting There: Fern Resort is just under a two-hour drive from Toronto.
14. Couples Resort
Couples Resort is a beautiful resort overlooking Galeairy Lake in Algonquin Park. The all-inclusive couple’s only package includes breakfast, five-course dinners, activities like horse riding and ice skating, and access to facilities like a saltwater swimming pool.
Being in the middle of nature there are plenty of hiking trails, paddling and canoe options in the summer with cross-country skiing and snowshoeing in the winter.
Getting There: The resort is three hours from Ottawa or nearly four hours from Toronto. See more availabiltiy and rates on TripAdvisor
15. Deerhurst Resort
Deerhurst is an upscale resort in Huntsville with a lot to offer. The Ontario resort is tucked up near the Hidden Valley Highlands. In winter, it is an ideal base for a ski holiday. For the rest of the year, Deerhurst Resort stands out for its two golf courses, hot tub, spa, and outdoor activities.
Deerhurst can be considered family-friendly or one of the best romantic weekend getaways – it’s up to you to decide which. You can book a weekend stay at Deerhurst Resort here
Getting There: Deerhurst is a two-and-a-half-hour drive from Toronto Check out details here.
16. Cedar Grove Lodge
We loved the romance of Cedar Grove Lodge in Huntsville. It is located on 150 feet of lakefront property on Peninsula Lake. There are plenty of things to do in Huntsville to keep you busy as well. Read: Things to do in Muskoka in Winter
Each room has its own wood-burning fireplace and this romantic retreat has all-inclusive packages where you can eat three meals a day in the dining room. Snuggling up by the fire in the snowy landscape is one of the most romantic places in Ontario. Check availability and rates for Cedar Grove on TripAdvisor
17. Severn Lodge
Severn Lodge is a lovely lakeside resort on the shores of Glouster Pool in Port Severn Township. The property dates back to the 1800s and still has traditional features like beamed ceilings and historical decor. Facilities include a heated pool, onsite beach, private dock, and patios or balconies overlooking the lake. Make reservations here.
Getting There: Severn Lodge is just forty minutes by car from Barrie and two hours from Toronto.
18. Idlewyld Inn and Spa
Idlewyld Inn and Spa is the number one destination for an elegant getaway in Western Ontario. Located in London, Ontario Idelwyld Inn and Spa is set in a classic mansion, the property features a full-service spa, onsite restaurant, courtyard garden, and stained glass windows throughout. It is perfect for anyone wanting an inspiring property for a relaxing city break. Get ready to step back in time.
Apart from its facilities, Idlewyld Inn and Spa also offers an all-inclusive package with a complimentary breakfast. And located in the heart of London, it is a deluxe base for a city break. See more details here.
19. Langdon Hall – Cambridge
Another complete Romantic Ontario getaway is Langdon Hall in Cambridge. This property has the distinction of being recognized by Relais & Châteaux for a standard of excellence.
The Five Diamond dining experience is the perfect romantic evening out and its spa packages include a half-day retreat of a Swedish massage, facials, and manicure and pedicure. There is a huge hot tub, saunas, and steam rooms to chill out in for the afternoon. Compare prices on TripAdvisor
Family Getaways in Ontario
Ontario is fantastic for family fun. We’ve picked these extra-special places for our next section; these are the best getaways for the whole family.
20. Collingwood / Blue Mountain
Collingwood is an action-packed destination in Ontario. In the summer, you can explore limestone caves, and winter it is the best place in Ontario for skiing. You can get all your family zipping down the slopes at Blue Mountain Resort in winter and then escape to the hot tub apres ski. It truly is the perfect weekend getaway anytime of the year.
Blue Mountain and Collingwood is one of the most adventurous and romantic getaways, but we included it under family Ontario getaways because there is so much to do. There are also more challenging adventures for older children, like ATV adventure tours, snorkeling tours, and off-roading.
Getting there: Blue Mountain Village is just over a two-hour drive from Toronto and is full of things to do.
In the Winter, we love to stay at the Blue Mountain Inn Slopeside. In the summer our choices are the gorgeous Westin Trillium House
21. Hamilton
Hamilton needs little introduction, and the major city in Southern Ontario has already been mentioned in this guide as a reference point. However, Hamilton is also an ideal family weekend getaway. One of the coolest activities in Hamilton is the exotic super car driving experience. Get behind the wheel of your dream car on a test drive adventure. As the waterfall capital of the world, there are countless waterfalls to explore, plenty of hikes and even vineyards.
The city is smaller than Toronto and packed with kid-friendly activities like Spencer Smith Park and the beloved Theodore Tugboat tours. You can easily head to rural sections for outdoor activities and are just a short drive from Niagara Falls. Read more: The Best Things to do in Hamilton, Ontario
Best accommodation option in Niagara Escarpment (Hamilton Area) – You can make a base in Burlington to explore the Hamilton portion of the Niagara Escarpment and we recommend The Pearl Hotel & Spa. The best family-friendly option in Hamilton is Staybridge Suites Hamilton Downtown
22. Peterborough
Peterborough sits just off the Otonabee River and perfectly treads the line between urban and residential suburban. You’ll find it much cheaper to visit Peterborough than Toronto, and the friendly downtown atmosphere and price tags are perfect for families covering lots of heads.
There are plenty of things to do with a focus on water sports and adventures. But there is also a lot to do on land including the Canadian Canoe Museum, Peterborough Museum, a rock climbing center, and Riverview Park. The attractions are just a short walk apart – handy for those little legs. Toronto is just an hour and twenty minutes away by car as well.
Best accommodation option in Peterborough – Holiday Inn Peterborough-Waterfront. The property has a policy where children 19 and under stay free with an adult, and kids 12 and under eat free.
23. Sauble Beach
Sauble Beach is a fantastic destination. The tiny beach community on the shores of Lake Huron is famous for its calm, shallow waters are perfect for younger children to learn to swim and older children to hone their water skills.
After you’ve spent a day swimming, Ascent Aerial Park is a great family attraction. You can tackle a high ropes course for some quality bonding. There’s also Sauble Falls Provincial Park to hike and fish in. Plus, Toronto is just under a three-hour drive away.
Best accommodation option in Sauble Beach – It’s a tough call, but Sauble Beach’s best accommodation is Bel-Air Motel & Cottages.
Great Outdoors
Ontario has amazing national parks and provincial parks that are open all year long. So even if it is winter, put on your parka, cozy up by the fire or head out for some cross country skiing and snowshoeing. In summer, take advantage of all the pristine hikes and biking trails and some of the best wildlife spotting on earth.
24. Algonquin Provincial Park
Algonquin Provincial Park is heaven on Earth for nature lovers. The park is more than a whopping 1.9 million acres of natural beauty and full of marked hiking trails and campsites – making it an accessible, beginner-friendly outdoor getaway in Ontario. It is the premier destiantion in Ontario for multi day canoe trips where you’ll spot moose, otters, beavers and even bears.
Its famous trails, like Lookout Trail and Centennial Ridges Trail, are perfect scenic hikes to squeeze into a weekend itinerary. And you have attractions like the Algonquin Logging Museum and Algonquin Art Centre all year round if you fancy a bit of culture.
Getting There: Algonquin Park is just a three-hour drive from Ottawa and three and a half hours from Toronto, so it is easily reached from a major city. If you don’t have your own car, you can arrange a car rental from one of the many car rental companies in the cities and drive yourself to the park.
Best accommodation option in Algonquin Provincial Park – Killarney Lodge is an all-inclusive park hotel with rustic lakeside cabins – well worth a look at.
25. Batchawana Bay Provincial Park
Batchawana Bay Provincial Park is a fantastic weekend getaway and is a 418-acre lakeside park with gorgeous beaches. Whether you enjoy water activities on Lake Superior, relax on the beaches, or get active on the local trails.
Batchawana Bay Park is a fifty-minute drive from Sault Ste Marie, a small city with fantastic mountain biking trails. If you love mountain biking, check out the Berm Baby Berm or Bee Sting trails.
Batchawan Bay is about an 8 hour drive from Toronto so this is best for a long weekend getaway in Ontario
Best accommodation option in Batchawana Bay – If you fancy going RV camping, Wild Rose RV Park is a fantastic seasonal option. If you prefer resorts, Sunset Shores Resort offers cabins just outside the park. Check rates and availaibity
26. Bruce Peninsula National Park
Bruce Peninsula Park is over 30,000 acres in size and is an absolute haven for outdoor enthusiasts. The park straddles the famed Niagara Escarpment and Georgian Bay coastline to enjoy.
The best thing to do in the park is to visit its natural attractions, like Flowerpot Island, Little Cove, and Fathom Five National Marine Park in Tobermory. Read our guide on things to do in Tobermory.
Getting There: From Toronto, it is a three-and-a-half-hour drive.
You can book a day trip from Toronto to Tobermory. This tour includes a guide and driver that takes you to visit the lighthouse and hiking to see the beautiful cliffs of Georgian Bay. You’ll visit The Grotto, Indian Head Cove and Marr Lake.
Best accommodation option– This beautiful waterfront cottage is 5km from downtown Tobermory. It offers kayaking and beautiful views for sunset. Camping is one of the best options for accommodation in Tobermory in the summer. Tobermory Village Campground or Cyprus Lake Campground.
27. Pukaskwa National Park
Pukaskwa National Park is a 460-acre park on the shores of Lake Superior. It is the perfect destination for beginner-friendly water activities, hiking, and camping – especially if you want to get away from the busier parks around Toronto.
Visitors should definitely make time to hike the Bimose Kinoomagewnan Trail. This trail is essential to indigenous Anishinaabe culture and is an excellent mix of cultural and outdoor activity. Read more: The Wild Coastal Trail of Pukaskwa National Park
Pukaskwa is quite far from major cities. It will take around eleven hours to reach Pukaskwa from Winnipeg or Toronto. Pukaskwa is perfect for road trip lovers and should be planned for a long weekend.
Best accommodation option in Pukaskwa NP – Pic River Guest Suite.
28. Manitoulin Island
Spending a weekend on Manitoulin Island a rejuvenating escape amidst breathtaking natural beauty and rich Indigenous culture, making it one of the best weekend getaways in the province.
As the world’s largest freshwater island, it offers an array of activities, from exploring the stunning Bridal Veil Falls to hiking the Cup and Saucer Trail, which boasts some of the most spectacular views in Ontario. Visit the charming villages of Little Current and Kagawong, and immerse yourself in local culture at the Ojibwe Cultural Foundation.
Getting There: Manitoulin is 6 hours from Toronto. It is a 4-hour scenic drive from Sudbury or a ferry ride from Tobermory aboard the MS Chi-Cheemaun, adding to the adventure.
29. Le Boat – Rideau Canal and Trent Severn
Houseboat tours are all the rage in Ontario, and there is no better weekend getaway (or week-long getaway) than renting your own houseboat to navigate Ontario’s historic waterways. We have navigated the Rideau Canal north from Smiths Falls to Ottawa and South from Smiths Falls to Kingston. With beautiful small towns to explore, from Smiths Falls to Merrickville, Westport, and Jones Falls, you’ll see some of the best little hamlets in Ontario.
The locks are 250 year old UNESCO World Heritage Sites that are absolutely awe-inspiring to go through. This is by far our favourite weekend getaway in Ontario and we saved the best for last. Guests drive their own houseboats through these historic waterways creating a memory to last a lifetime.
It is safe to say that we love Ontario, and we bet you will, too, when you try these weekend getaways. For more inspiration in Ontario, you can check out our guides on the best places to visit and things to do across the province. We also have a special guide on the best things to do when visiting Ontario in winter and another on the province’s best hiking trails.
