Ontario offers some of Canada’s best road trip experiences, from iconic landmarks like Niagara Falls and Algonquin Park to hidden gems like Elora and Manitoulin Island. This guide highlights 10 must-visit destinations perfect for nature lovers, families, couples, and adventurers, with each location offering unique sights, activities, and seasonal charm for unforgettable getaways.
Ontario, Canada's most populous province, is a vast and diverse region filled with everything from bustling cities and charming small towns to serene lakes and untouched forests. Its well-maintained highways, scenic byways, and proximity to natural wonders make it one of the best provinces for a road trip. Whether you're a seasoned traveler or a first-time explorer, Ontario offers an unforgettable journey full of adventure, culture, and natural beauty.
From iconic landmarks like Niagara Falls to the quiet tranquility of Manitoulin Island, there’s something for every kind of traveler. In this article, we’ll explore ten of the top road trip destinations in Ontario, each offering its own unique experience. For each destination, we’ll include travel distance/time from Toronto, ideal visitors, best times to go, and a few handy travel tips. Pack your bags, fuel up the car, and get ready to hit the road!
1. Niagara Falls
- Distance from Toronto: ~130 km / 1.5 hours
- Perfect for: Families, couples, first-time visitors to Ontario
- Best Time to Travel: Late spring through early fall for full attraction access
- Travel Tips: Arrive early to avoid crowds. Use the WEGO bus system to get around. Book Hornblower Cruises in advance.
No road trip list in Ontario is complete without Niagara Falls. As one of the most famous waterfalls in the world, Niagara Falls draws millions of visitors every year. But there's much more to do than just watching the falls. Stroll along Clifton Hill, visit the Butterfly Conservatory, or take a boat ride right into the mist.
Just a short drive away is Niagara-on-the-Lake, a picturesque town with wineries, boutique shopping, and theatre. Drive along the Niagara Parkway for one of Ontario’s most scenic routes.
2. Muskoka
- Distance from Toronto: ~200 km / 2.5 hours
- Perfect for: Nature lovers, families, couples
- Best Time to Travel: Summer for water activities; fall for foliage
- Travel Tips: Book cottage rentals well in advance. Bring bug spray for summer visits.
Muskoka is Ontario’s premier cottage country destination, known for its crystal-clear lakes, lush forests, and luxurious resorts. In the summer, it’s perfect for boating, swimming, and hiking, while the fall offers spectacular foliage. Towns like Bracebridge, Gravenhurst, and Huntsville provide great launching points for exploring the region.
3. Algonquin Provincial Park
- Distance from Toronto: ~300 km / 3.5–4 hours
- Perfect for: Outdoor adventurers, hikers, photographers
- Best Time to Travel: Fall for colors; summer for full access to trails and canoe routes
- Travel Tips: Buy your park pass online to skip the line. Visit midweek to avoid crowds.
For nature lovers, Algonquin Park is a dream destination. It’s Ontario’s oldest provincial park and offers endless opportunities for hiking, canoeing, and wildlife spotting. Whether you're camping or just visiting for the day, the park’s pristine lakes and dense forests make it a peaceful escape from city life.
4. Prince Edward County
- Distance from Toronto: ~200 km / 2.5 hours
- Perfect for: Foodies, wine lovers, couples
- Best Time to Travel: Late spring to early fall
- Travel Tips: Reserve wine tastings and dinner spots early. Weekdays are quieter.
Located on the shores of Lake Ontario, Prince Edward County is famous for its vineyards, sandy beaches, and farm-to-table cuisine. It’s a great destination for foodies and wine lovers. Don’t miss Sandbanks Provincial Park, home to some of the best beaches in Ontario.
5. Thousand Islands
- Distance from Toronto: ~290 km / 3 hours
- Perfect for: Boaters, history buffs, couples
- Best Time to Travel: Summer and early fall
- Travel Tips: Book boat cruises ahead. Bring binoculars for wildlife viewing.
Stretching along the St. Lawrence River, the Thousand Islands region is a picturesque area made up of over 1,800 islands. Take a boat cruise to see the islands and their historic castles, or explore charming towns like Gananoque and Brockville. It’s a great spot for kayaking, fishing, and relaxing by the water.
6. Blue Mountains / Collingwood
- Distance from Toronto: ~160 km / 2 hours
- Perfect for: Outdoor adventurers, spa lovers, families
- Best Time to Travel: Winter for skiing; summer for hiking and mountain biking
- Travel Tips: Buy ski lift tickets online. Try the Scenic Caves suspension bridge for great photos.
Just a couple of hours north of Toronto, the Blue Mountains region offers year-round adventure. In the winter, it’s a popular ski destination, while the summer months bring opportunities for hiking, mountain biking, and exploring the Scenic Caves. The nearby town of Collingwood is great for dining and shopping.
7. Tobermory and Bruce Peninsula
- Distance from Toronto: ~300 km / 4–5 hours
- Perfect for: Hikers, divers, nature lovers
- Best Time to Travel: Late spring to early fall
- Travel Tips: Book Grotto access and boat tours in advance. Start hikes early in the day.
Tobermory, located at the tip of the Bruce Peninsula, is a stunning destination known for its turquoise waters, rugged cliffs, and the famous Grotto. It’s also a gateway to Fathom Five National Marine Park, where you can explore shipwrecks and Flowerpot Island. Hike along the Bruce Trail for breathtaking views.
8. Ottawa
- Distance from Toronto: ~450 km / 4.5–5 hours
- Perfect for: History lovers, families, festival goers
- Best Time to Travel: Year-round (spring for Tulips, winter for skating, summer for festivals)
- Travel Tips: Use the Ottawa Transit to avoid parking headaches. Pack for variable weather.
Canada’s capital city is rich in history, culture, and natural beauty. Visit Parliament Hill, tour the many museums, and walk or bike along the Rideau Canal. Ottawa is especially vibrant during the summer with festivals like Canada Day, Bluesfest, and the Canadian Tulip Festival in spring.
9. Elora & Fergus
- Distance from Toronto: ~115 km / 1.5 hours
- Perfect for: Weekend getaways, photographers, families
- Best Time to Travel: Summer for tubing; fall for festivals and colors
- Travel Tips: Wear water shoes for tubing. Visit Elora Mill for a luxurious meal or spa visit.
These two historic towns in southwestern Ontario are known for their 19th-century architecture, scenic rivers, and the stunning Elora Gorge. Enjoy tubing down the Grand River, explore the Elora Quarry, or relax at a local café. The Elora Mill offers luxurious accommodations with views of the gorge.
10. Manitoulin Island
- Distance from Toronto: ~580 km / 6–7 hours (via Sudbury)
- Perfect for: Nature lovers, spiritual retreats, slow travelers
- Best Time to Travel: Summer to early fall
- Travel Tips: Check ferry schedules ahead of time. Fuel up before entering the island as stations are limited.
As the world’s largest freshwater island, Manitoulin offers a unique blend of nature, culture, and Indigenous heritage. Hike the Cup and Saucer Trail for incredible views, visit local pow-wows, and learn about Anishinaabe culture. Accessible by ferry or road, Manitoulin is a peaceful and enriching destination.
Road Trip Tips
Planning a successful and enjoyable road trip requires a bit of preparation. To help you make the most of your Ontario adventure, here are some practical tips on the best time to travel, what to pack, safety reminders, route planning, and ways to support local communities along the way.
Best Time to Travel
The ideal time for an Ontario road trip is from late spring through early fall, when the weather is warm and most seasonal attractions are open. This period offers longer daylight hours perfect for exploring. Fall, in particular, is a spectacular time to visit thanks to the vibrant foliage painting the landscapes in stunning reds, oranges, and yellows—making your drive even more memorable.
Packing Essentials
Be sure to come prepared with navigation tools like a GPS device or offline maps in case you’re driving through areas with limited cell service. Don’t forget your phone charger to keep devices powered, along with plenty of snacks and water to stay energized on the road. A basic first-aid kit is always a smart addition, as well as layered clothing to adjust to changing temperatures, especially if you’re traveling through different regions or elevations.
Travel Safety
Before hitting the road, give your vehicle a thorough checkup. Inspect tire pressure, oil levels, brakes, and fluid levels to help prevent breakdowns. It’s also wise to have an emergency roadside kit with essentials such as jumper cables, a flashlight, and basic tools, just in case.
Plan Your Route
Ontario is a large province with diverse attractions spaced out over hundreds of kilometers. Map out your itinerary carefully to include realistic driving times and breaks, ensuring you don’t overextend yourself. Consider scheduling overnight stays along the way to rest and recharge, allowing you to enjoy each destination fully without fatigue.
Support Local
Wherever your road trip takes you, make an effort to support local businesses. Opt for locally-owned accommodations like charming bed and breakfasts or boutique inns, dine at independent restaurants to savor authentic regional flavors, and shop at farmers’ markets and artisan stores. This not only enriches your travel experience but also helps sustain the communities you visit.
FAQs About Best Road Trip Destinations in Ontario
Planning a road trip in Ontario? Whether you’re hitting the road for the first time or looking for new destinations to explore, here are answers to some of the most common questions travelers ask when exploring Ontario by car.
Ontario is full of amazing road trip destinations. Top spots include Niagara Falls, Muskoka, Algonquin Park, Prince Edward County, and the Bruce Peninsula for their mix of natural beauty, outdoor activities, and unique local charm.
Start by choosing your destination(s) based on your interests—nature, history, or food. Check distances, book accommodations early (especially for summer), and plan your route with rest stops and fuel stations. Don’t forget park permits and offline maps for rural areas.
The best time to road trip in Ontario is from May to October, when the weather is ideal for outdoor activities. Summer is great for beaches and festivals, while fall offers stunning foliage, especially in places like Algonquin and Muskoka.
Yes! Many Ontario destinations are perfect for families. Niagara Falls, Muskoka, Ottawa, and Elora offer attractions and activities suitable for kids of all ages, including museums, nature trails, and water parks.
Yes, a car is essential for most road trips in Ontario due to the large distances between destinations and limited public transit in rural or remote areas. Renting a car is a good option for tourists visiting from out of province or country.
Conclusion: Hit the Road
From iconic natural wonders and vibrant cities to tranquil islands and cultural hubs, Ontario has something to offer every type of road tripper. These ten destinations each provide a unique experience, and together they showcase the diversity and richness of the province.
Whether you're chasing waterfalls, sipping local wine, or hiking through ancient forests, a road trip through Ontario promises memories that will last a lifetime. So, pick your route, start your engine, and discover the magic of Ontario, one destination at a time.
