As fall approaches, it’s the perfect time to plan some energizing weekend getaways from Toronto. It’s a chance to soak in the beautiful views, enjoy a change of pace, and watch the leaves change colour in scenic small towns. Everyone deserves a little escape, so here are 5 stunning weekend getaways just a short drive from the city.
Jump ahead:
Elora: Where History Meets Art
Distance: 1 hour 50 minutes (115km west via ON-401)
Elora is just as beautiful as its name suggests. The village is known for its natural scenery and historic architecture. It’s also a hub for art and culture, showcasing the town’s creativity and beauty. Stroll through galleries, browse artisan shops, and sample local breweries to get a true feel of what it’s like to live in Elora.
Must-Do Activities
- Go canoeing or kayaking on the Grand River
- Explore gift shops and try restaurants in Downtown Elora
- Go tubing at Elora Gorge Falls
- Swim and have a picnic at the Elora Quarry Conservation Center
- Join a workshop at the Elora Center for the Arts
Where to Eat
- Lost and Found Café – A cozy spot with a homey vibe, serves soup, pastries, and coffee
- Elora Mill Restaurant – For something more upscale, enjoy refined local flavours and wine tastings here.
Where to Stay
- Kat Florence Hotel (modern luxury mixed with heritage, spa, rooftop pools, complimentary massages)
- Elora Mill (three room styles: French, Modern, and Rustic + a pool and restaurant)
- The Village Inn Elora (budget-friendly, family-owned)
Best Time to Visit
In spring or summer, when the weather is warm enough to take part in all the fun water activities.
Paris: Canada’s Prettiest Little Town
Distance: 1 hour 24 minutes (112km via west ON-403)
Ontario has its very own Paris, and it’s just as lovely as the one in France. Nestled between the Grand and Nith Rivers, it’s known for its picturesque river valley setting, historic downtown, and natural beauty. Along the riverbank, quaint streets are lined with cafes, boutiques, and specialty shops, making it the perfect little town to explore on a weekend.
Must-Do Activities
- Hike the Nith Trail
- Enjoy the scenic beauty while kayaking down the Grand River
- Browse the local shops and vendors at the Paris Wincey Mills market hall
- Learn about the local heritage and history at the Paris Museum & Historical Society
Where to Eat
- Stillwaters Plate & Pour – Enjoy contemporary Canadian cuisine with the best riverfront views in Paris
- The Paris Wincey Mills Co. – An indoor market offering a variety of foods, perfect for sampling local flavours
- Little Paris Bread Co. – Taste freshly baked cinnamon buns, sourdough, and a variety of baked goods
- Chocolate Sensations – Specializes in handmade chocolates, making it the perfect spot for a sweet treat
Where to Stay
- Arlington Hotel (boutique hotel with historic charm and themed rooms + located in the heart of downtown Paris)
- Davidson Motel (budget-friendly and traditional-style rooms)
Best Time to Visit
Spring, summer, and fall are the best times to visit, when the weather is not too chilly and you can still stroll the streets, hike, kayak, and really take in the gorgeous views.
Niagara-On-The-Lake: Romance on the Shores
Distance: 1 hour 46 minutes (132km west via Queen Elizabeth Way)
If you’re looking for a romantic getaway, Niagara-on-the-Lake is one of the best weekend getaways from Toronto. Nestled on the shores of Lake Ontario and right at the mouth of the Niagara River, this town feels like a fairy tale setting, with flower-lined streets, historic inns, performance theatres, and carriage rides.
Must-Do Activities
- Horse-drawn carriage rides
- Visit a lavender farm
- Visit the Butterfly Conservatory
- Walk through the Niagara Parks Botanical Gardens
- Explore Queen Street and visit all the cafés, shops, and galleries
- Bike along the lake at the Niagara River Recreation Trail
- See live plays at the Shaw Festival
Where to Eat
- Balzac’s – A cute Parisian-inspired cafe with indoor and patio seating
- Il Gelato di Carlotta – The perfect place to visit on a hot summer day. They offer everything from gelato and sorbetto to specialty coffees and pastries
- Avo & Co. – Casual restaurant with salads, poke bowls, and toasted sandwiches
- Zees Wine Bar & Grill – Best for contemporary Canadian cuisine
- Ravine Vineyard Estate Winery – Romantic fine-dining with farm-to-table dishes
Where to Stay
- Prince of Wales (luxurious Victorian era hotel)
- Holiday Inn Express (affordable option with free breakfast)
- Staybridge Suites (budget-friendly, modern rooms with free breakfast)
Best Time to Visit
Spring, summer, and fall are the best times to visit, so that you can still enjoy carriage rides, wander through the lavender farms, and bike along the lake.
Tobermory: Waterfront Wonder and Island Escapes
Distance: 4 hours 9 minutes (296km north via ON-10 and Hwy 6)
Just a few hours from the city, Tobermory offers crystal-clear blue waters perfect for freshwater adventures reminiscent of a tropical getaway. Enjoy activities like scuba diving near shipwrecks, glass-bottom boat tours, ferry rides to breathtaking islands, and much more.
Must-Do Activities
- Take a ferry to Flowerpot Island
- Kayak to Great Duck Island
- Take a glass-bottom boat tour
- Go scuba diving and explore shipwreck sites
- Explore the Bruce Peninsula National Park
- Stargaze in the Dark Sky Preserve at the Fathom Five National Marine Park
Where to Eat
- Shipwreck Lee’s – Specializes in fish and chips
- The Hungry Hiker – A quick lunch stop for soups and sandwiches
- Coconut Joe’s Harbour Bar and Grill – Island-inspired restaurant offering tacos, burgers, and salads
- Tobermory Brewing Company & Grill – Casual pub serving pasta, burgers, and salads
Where to Stay
- Bluebay Motel (affordable rooms)
- Tobermory Inn & Cottages (cozy rooms with views of the Bruce Peninsula National Park)
- Stone Cove Waterfront (luxurious adults-only retreat with free breakfast)
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit is summer, when you can fully enjoy all the freshwater activities and its beautiful waterside views.
Stratford: Theatre and Festival Charm
Distance: 2 hours 30 minutes (149km west via ON-401 and Hwy 8 /ON-7)
Not only is Stratford known for being Justin Bieber’s hometown, but it’s also celebrated for its lively festivals, performing arts theatres, and stunning Victorian architecture. Walking through the streets, you’ll feel as if you’ve traveled to a different era.
Must-Do Activities
- Visit the Shakespearean Garden
- Watch a musical or play at the Avon Theatre, the venue for the Stratford Festival
- Rent a canoe or kayak with The Boathouse and paddle along the Avon River
Where to Eat
- BRCH & WYN – A coffee shop by day and wine bar by night
- Soup Surreal – Enjoy artisan soup and freshly baked bread
- The Prune – This fine dining restaurant serves contemporary Canadian cuisine
- Braai – South African-inspired restaurant, focused on open-fire cooking
Where to Stay
- The Bruce Hotel (premier luxury accommodations and Shakespeare-themed rooms)
- Hughson Hall B&B (traditional bed and breakfast with vintage appeal)
Best Time to Visit
Spring, summer, and fall are the best times to visit, especially as the Stratford Festival runs from April to November.
Refresh and Recharge With a Weekend Getaway
Toronto is one of the most exciting cities in Canada, but sometimes you just need a weekend away to recharge. Sip on award-winning Niagara wines, treat yourself to a cozy staycation at a boutique hotel, or reconnect with nature on the Bruce Peninsula. No matter which escape you choose, you’ll return refreshed and ready to dive back into everything the city has to offer.
Discover your perfect small-town retreat and enjoy these views every day. Explore our listings today!