GTA Getaways: Day Trips for Your Long Weekend

Long weekends are the perfect chance to take a short break from the daily routine without straying too far from home. Living in the Greater Toronto Area (GTA) means you’re within reach of countless hidden gems and destinations that offer a refreshing change of scenery, fun activities, and a chance to recharge. We’ve highlighted some of the best day trips you can enjoy this long weekend.

Explore the Beauty of Elora and Fergus

About an hour and a half from Toronto, Elora and Fergus are picture-perfect towns that feel like they’re straight out of a storybook. The Elora Gorge is a must-visit for outdoor lovers, with hiking trails, riverside picnic spots, and breathtaking views of limestone cliffs. In the summer, tubing along the Grand River is a local favourite. Afterward, stroll through Elora’s charming downtown lined with boutique shops, art galleries, and cozy cafés. 

If you’re planning a fall visit, don’t miss the Elora Twilight Zoo, a whimsical outdoor display of illuminated monster sculptures scattered across town. This seasonal art installation transforms Elora into a glowing wonderland after dark and is a unique way to experience the village’s creative spirit.

Niagara-on-the-Lake: More Than Just Wine Country

Niagara-on-the-Lake is often celebrated for its wineries, but this historic town offers so much more. Stroll along Queen Street and you’ll find heritage buildings, local cafes, and quaint shops that make you feel as though you’ve stepped back in time. Long weekends are ideal for wine tours, but you can also explore nearby bike trails or catch a live performance at the renowned Shaw Festival.

Barrie: A Lakeside Escape Close to Home

Just over an hour north of Toronto, Barrie is a convenient and scenic getaway for long weekends. Nestled along the shores of Lake Simcoe, Barrie combines waterfront views with all the amenities of a vibrant city just steps away. Kempenfelt Bay is a local favourite for swimming, paddleboarding, and kayaking in the summer, while the waterfront trails are perfect for biking or a leisurely stroll. Downtown Barrie has a lively mix of shops, patios, and restaurants, making it easy to cap off your day by the lake with a great meal. 

If you’re a craft beer fan, especially if you like bold and hoppy IPAs, be sure to stop by Flying Monkeys Craft Brewery. It’s one of Ontario’s most creative breweries, known for its adventurous flavour profiles and colourful taproom right in the heart of downtown.

Hamilton’s Waterfall Wonders

Hamilton may be known as an industrial city, but locals know it hides a natural treasure. With over 100 waterfalls scattered throughout the region, Hamilton is often called the “Waterfall Capital of the World.” Popular spots like Webster’s Falls and Albion Falls are ideal for a scenic hike, while lesser-known gems like Tiffany Falls offer a bit quieter. Pair your hike with a stop at one of Hamilton’s growing list of craft breweries, like Aquanova Brewing Company, for a perfect day trip.

Prince Edward County: Food, Wine, and Dunes

Though it’s about two and a half hours from Toronto, Prince Edward County is well worth the drive for a long weekend getaway. Known for its stunning wineries, farm-to-table restaurants, and artistic vibe, this destination has become one of Ontario’s trendiest spots. Spend the day at Sandbanks Provincial Park with its famous sandy dunes, or explore the charming towns of Picton and Wellington for boutique shopping and local markets. 

If you enjoy cycling, the Millennium Trail is a fantastic way to experience the county at a slower pace. Stretching nearly 50 kilometres, this multi-use path winds through vineyards, farmland, and picturesque towns, making it easy to combine a bike ride with stops at wineries, breweries, or local farm stands along the way.