Looking for a destination close to home? There’s so many scenic drives in Ontario to experience for an Ontario road trip of a lifetime!
It shouldn’t take a global lockdown on travel for us to want to explore our backyard. But I get it, vacationing in Greece or Egypt is more novel and exciting than driving five hours deep into the forests of Northern Ontario. Honestly though, I think through this list you’ll get inspiration for a few drool worthy locations that’ll give those ancient ruins a run for their money.
By no means is this list comprehensive, but these are some of the top spots as recommended by other travel bloggers! Now is the time to go out and discover what Ontario has to offer, let me know what you find!
Sandbanks Provincial Park
Located on Lake Ontario and about a 2.5-3 hour drive from both Ottawa or Toronto, a nice midway point in fact, is Sandbanks Provincial Park. Sandbanks has by far some of the best beaches in the province (if not the country!). Almost Caribbean like blue clear water, that makes you forget you’re swimming in a lake. Some days you’ll also be surprised at how big the waves can get!
Sandbanks books up very, very quickly. It’s best if you plan to camp, RV or book a cottage, to make reservations in advance (like months in advance). You can come to the park for day use, but be advised, it’s best to arrive before 10 am or after 3pm, for the best chances of getting in as there are limited parking spots and they do stop allowing visitors in after a certain time. Especially if you plan to come during a weekend or long weekend, prepare yourself!
Sandbanks is located within Prince Edward County, which in itself is a beautiful destination. Lots of cute Air BnBs or Bed & Breakfasts, vineyards to visit, lavender farms, llamas, anything your instagram dreams of!
Algonquin Provincial Park
Contributed by Mikaela from Voyageur Tripper
Algonquin was the first provincial park in Ontario and protects almost 8,000 square kilometers of beautiful wilderness. There are hundreds of sparkling blue lakes, the trees turn vibrant colours in the fall and there’s the chance of seeing wildlife, especially moose. If you only have a few hours, you could rent a canoe and go for a short paddle. Or you could do one of the shorter hikes; Barron Canyon is a quick one with beautiful views.
Ideally if you’re making the drive to Algonquin, however, you should spend a few days in the park. With over 2,000 km of canoe routes, Algonquin is the epitome of canoe camping, so any visit to the park would be incomplete with it. If you don’t have much experience with canoe camping, you can go with a guide – they will supply all the equipment you need and worry about the logistics (i.e. transportation, food). If hiking is more your style, the Highland Backpacking Trail is a moderately difficult 2-3 day hike that connects several beautiful lakes.
Regardless of how you visit, a stop at Algonquin Provincial Park is an essential part of an Ontario road trip itinerary.
Ottawa
The nations capital is a great stop to consider on your scenic Ontario road trip! There’s tons to do in Ottawa, take it from a local, this is an all season destination.
Whether you’re interested in more outdoor activities like cycling, hiking or kayaking or more into visiting as many museums as possible, there’s something here for everyone. While Ottawa is often seen as a sleepy government town, I assure you there’s plenty of activities and delicious food spots to keep your agendas (and stomachs) filled.
An ideal stay in Ottawa can be done in 2-3 days and the best time of year to come is either Summer or Fall.
Kawartha Lakes
Contributed by sustainable travel bloggers Oksana & Max from Drink Tea & Travel
Kawartha Lakes is a region located just an hour and a half east of Toronto. It is cottage country area and offers a wealth of things to do for outdoor adventurers.
One of the highlights of the Kawartha Lakes region is Balsam Lake Provincial Park. It has a plethora of trails to explore, swim spots and opportunities to go kayaking or canoeing. In the winter months, you can also go cross country skiing in the park.
Hikers will also enjoy the Kawartha Trans Canada Trail. The well trodden track is surrounded by the lush greenery of Southern Ontario in the summer months and is part of the larger Trans Canada Trail.
The Trent-Severn Waterway is also located in the Kawartha Lakes region. This historic lake system is worth a visit if you have never seen it before. The entire system is over 350 kilometres in length and takes boaters from lake to lake.
While you are there don’t miss trying Kawartha ice cream! It is a local speciality and something we always indulge in while we’re in the area.
Killarney Provincial Park
Contributed by Mikaela from Voyageur Tripper
Killarney Provincial Park is perhaps the most beautiful place in Ontario, making it a must-stop destination on an Ontario road trip itinerary. Throughout the park, the shorelines and mountains are a sparkling mosaic of black and pink granite, and white quartzite. Windswept Eastern White Pines tower above and bend at impossible shapes under the relentless power of Georgian Bay winds. The turquoise water shimmers under the sun.
If you only have a few hours, The Crack is an excellent hiking trail that will treat you to spectacular views of the La Cloche Mountain Range. If you have a little longer, rent a canoe and paddle to Killarney Lake for the day. The best option, however, would be to plan a short canoe trip (or join a guided group) and experience the park for several days. The sunrises, sunsets and stargazing are incredible. There are options for car camping, backcountry camping and lodges nearby.
Tobermory
Contributed by Liliane from My Toronto, My World
Tobermory is located about 4 hours from Toronto and makes for one of the best road trip destinations in Ontario. The drive takes you through smaller roads (as opposed to the giant highways you may be used to) and ends up in the charming lakefront town. There’s some harbourfront options for overnight stays and plenty of options within a reasonable distance from the core as well.
Most known for its stunning nature, Tobermory has plenty to offer. Absolute must-dos include the Tobermory Grotto and Bruce Peninsula National Park. The national park also has plenty of trails, a lookout tower and beaches to offer. Fathom Five National Park and Flowerpot Island is another must do and one of the most popular things to do in Tobermory. The Flower Pot Island is super popular and boat tours to the island often sell out so booking your ride ahead of time is best. Make sure to explore the many shipwrecks around the harbour as well as the lighthouses.
Once you’ve had your fill of nature exploring, grab a bite to eat at any of the restaurants in the core and end your trip with ice cream or a Canadian Classic – the Beaver Tail.
Niagara Falls
Contributed by Stephanie from History Fangirl
Potentially the most famous landmark in all of Ontario, Niagara Falls is a must-see for Canadians and Americans alike. Road tripping here is fairly easy since it’s accessible and the town has great parking infrastructure as long as you’re prepared to pay for it.
The falls themselves are breathtaking. You can ride a boat right up to them, tour the falls from behind, and indulge in the town’s generally kitschy atmosphere. At night during the summer you can see the falls lit up, and there are even fantastic fireworks displays on certain nights.
While in town, make sure to set aside time to shop since there are some really fun Niagara Falls souvenirs. There are also adrenaline-fueled activities available like zip-lining over the falls. If you think you can handle the intensity, it’s an amazing way to experience this beautiful site!
Try to arrange your activities ahead of time so you can do everything you intend. The day here can really get away from you since there’s so much to do!
Fort William Historical Park
Contributed by Lucy from On the Luce
Ontario is known for its natural beauty, but it also has a fascinating history, and at Fort William Historical Park you can head back in time to discover what life in Ontario was like in 1815. Fort William Historical Park is around 12km from the town of Thunder Bay and close to the waterfalls of Kakabeka Falls Ontario Provincial Park. Fort William was originally a North West Company fur trading post where traders would come to sell beaver pelts, and a whole town grew up around it.
Today it has 42 restored buildings – including the governor’s house, chemist shop, school and a working farm – making it one of the largest living history attractions in North America. Being a living history museum means there are no guided tours, instead you’re free to explore, and each guide is a different character who you can ask questions about their lives. Talking to a Cree elder about trading routes or the governor’s butler about the menu for the evening’s banquet really brings history to life. There are also annual festivals and special events throughout the year.
Manitoulin Island
Contributed by Dearbhaile from This Wild Life of Mine
The largest island on Lake Huron, Manitoulin Island has long been a popular destination for local Ontarians and visitors alike. It has beautiful scenery, outdoor activities, hiking, indigenous history and even a chance to see the Northern Lights at its Dark Sky Preserve – yes, this far south of the Arctic Circle!
When visiting the island – which is easy to get to across the Little Current swing bridge connecting it to the mainland, or by ferry from Tobermory – don’t miss the Ojibwe Cultural Foundation, with its beautiful indigenous art exhibitions, Anishinaabe language centre and performance spaces. Other don’t-miss places are the Bridal Veil Falls and the Cup and Saucer trail, which is a stunning hike up onto the cliff edge of the Niagara Escarpment, with views across the island and Lake Huron.
While travelling along the shores of the Great Lakes, Manitoulin Island makes for a perfect Ontario road trip destination.
Kingston
Contributed by Eric from Ontario Away
If you’re on the open road in Ontario, a classic stop is Kingston. Located right on the shores of Lake Ontario, Kingston benefits from having a lively downtown packed with shops, pubs, cafes, and other places to visit. This “limestone city” was Canada’s first capital so there are lots of historic places to see like Fort Henry. You can hop on the Kingston Trolley Tour if you want to learn more.
Along the waterfront away from downtown, there are walking paths which snake through green parks with picnic tables – making it perfect for a place to stop for food and/or stretch your legs. From here, you might catch a glimpse of the Wolfe Island ferry making its crossing. You might even want to hop aboard if you’re feeling extra adventurous.
With Highway 401 passing through the city’s north end, Kingston makes an easy overnight stop when on a road trip. There are some great accommodations in Kingston that are right downtown at the historic waterfront area if you want water views and a nice walk to dinner in the evening!
Muskoka
Contributed by Manpreet from Your Vegan Adventure
Lake Muskoka is a great destination by road, especially during Spring and Summer, with lots of opportunities to take boat tours or hire a boat to explore the lake yourself. The lake and resorts are generally closed during the winter, due to the harsh weather and lake freezing over.
When you are heading out the Muskoka, the fun begins before you arrive as you will likely pass Cookstown which is home to a lovely shopping outlet. Just south of Lake Simcoe, these outlets were a great experience as they are much quieter than the larger more popular ones and a made for a great stop break on route to Muskoka.
There are plenty of great luxury hotels along the lake, many of whom offer great activities to keep the whole family busy. We would recommend hiring bikes and taking a trail through the many provincial parks which sit beside the lake.
A little tip to save money… if you head out towards Muskoka near the end of the summer, hotels and resorts are significantly cheaper as their season comes to a close. Light warm clothes will be needed for the evenings, but you will still have plenty of opportunities to enjoy!
Thunder Bay
Contributed by Kristal from Adventure Dawgs
For anyone looking to do a serious road trip in Ontario, Thunder Bay has to be at the top of the list. This city has the feel of a frontier town but there is so much more to it and this city will satisfy every need.
The drive to Thunder Bay along the shores of Lake Superior can only be described as spectacular. Once you arrive, you will be greeted by a unique mix of old and new, traditional and contemporary. This is still a working city but with a modern feel to it. Explore the coffee shops, galleries, and craft breweries or sit by the waterfront and watch the ships as they sail past the Sleeping Giant.
For nature lovers, there are several provincial parks a short drive away where you can camp or hike the day away.
Of course, no trip to Thunder Bay is complete without a visit to the Terry Fox Monument. It was near this site in 1980 that the young man was forced to stop his Marathon of Hope across Canada.
Thunder Bay is one of the hidden jewels of Canada and a must visit city in northern Ontario and well worth the drive.
Pukaskwa National Park
Contributed by Dearbhaile from This Wild Life of Mine
Every now and again, I have a moment that stops me in my tracks and makes me think ‘yes, this is why I chose this life of travel’. I had one of those moments at the top of the Manito Miikana trail in Pukaskwa National Park. Manito Miikana translates to ‘Spirit Trail’, which is so perfect for a place in Pukaskwa.
Located on the shores of Lake Superior, this national park has a beautiful mix of coastal and forest landscapes. Walking along golden beaches strewn with huge pieces of driftwood and wandering through boulder-ridden forest trails up onto rocky promontories are perfect ways to experience this beautiful Ontario road trip destination.
But it’s also a paradise for water-goers. Pukaskwa has 135km of coastline, and the park’s Coastal Paddling Route is actually part of the Trans-Canada Trail. There’s even some backcountry white-water-rafting and advanced kayaking opportunities for those more experienced and adventurous travellers.
Brockville
Contributed by Lori from Voyage Writers
Located on the St Lawrence River, this southeastern Ontario town of 21,000 has a lot to do, see and experience.
A favourite is a free visit to the Brockville Railway Tunnel. Finished in 1860, this 1/2 km (1752 ft) long tunnel is the first railway tunnel built in Canada. Its rails have been replaced with smooth concrete, and visitors are treated to an LED light and sound display.
Just a few steps from the tunnel, you will find the Aquatarium at Tall Ship’s Landing. This educational and interactive center showcases the diverse waters and wildlife of the St. Lawrence River and 1000 Islands.
If being outdoors is on your list, there are walking trails, 1000 Islands cruises, and some of the world’s best freshwater diving. You are never far from the refreshing breeze of the water here.
All this activity will make you hungry. You are sure to find something to your liking in one of the many locally-owned restaurants and shops downtown.
Located 3.5 hrs east of Toronto, 2 hrs west of Montreal and 1hr south of Ottawa, come for the day or enjoy a wide variety of accommodations in the area.
Blue Mountain
Contributed by Manpreet from Your Vegan Adventure
The best reason why we love a road trip to Blue Mountain, is that the resort is amazing all year round. During the winter months, ski lifts are operated to let the public ski down their slopes. During the spring and summer, the mountain becomes a grass hill, perfect for picnics along with an array of activities that they have on. These include bike rentals with many different track paths, the famous mountain ridge racer and lots of restaurants to wet the appetite.
The Ridge Racer is great for all ages, a mini roller coast along the side of the mountain where you control the speed! The resort itself has great accommodation, including the Village Suites, the Resort Inn and the luxury Westin Hotel. All of these are located on the resort and everything you want is within a couple minutes walk. Parking is also free for all guests, which makes the road trip even more of a must do!
Toronto
Toronto is anything but just a city full of skyscrapers! If you’ve already visited many times and done the typical tourist round of museums and tours up the CN tower, try something more off the beaten path and visit the city like a local!
Take a scenic boat ride to Toronto island and cross over Lake Ontario to get that iconic view of the Toronto skyline, a true Canadian landmark! Or take a stop through Kensington market, a bohemian neighbourhood in search of the best and most exotic international cuisines.
As the capital of Ontario, Toronto is somewhere worth considering a road trip to, or as a stopover on your way to your next destination.
Both southern Ontario and northern Ontario are included above and are great either for a weekend getaway or a longer stay.
So if you’re wondering where are the best places to visit in Ontario or the best road trips in Ontario, hope this list provides you with a good jump off point!
Looking for more inspiration for your visit to Ontario? Take a look at some of these guides on the most underrated capital in the world!
- Top instagram spots in Ottawa
- Feel like royalty at the Chateau Laurier High Tea
- Local’s Guide to a weekend in Ottawa
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