Day Trips to Help You Explore the GTA This Season

Spring is in the air which means it’s time to start planning warm weather road trips across the GTA! Looking for an incredible day trip for you and your family? Or maybe you want to have a romantic drive in the countryside? Just because we live in a roaring city, doesn’t mean we can’t throw back to the golden age of country driving. Stretch your legs and shine your luxury vehicle as we take a look at some great destinations for city dwellers looking for an escape down the highway.

Niagara Region

Welcome to wine country! Head down the QEW for about 1.5 hours and you’ll find the rolling hills and lakeside views of the Niagara peninsula. There is much more to do than sip wine, but if you want to have some samples we recommend staying overnight in one of the winning bed and breakfasts in Vineland, Beamsville or Jordan Ont. Dine at top restaurants, go antiquing or enjoy nature by walking through parts of the Bruce trail, exploring Balls Falls in Jordan Station or taking a walk at historic Queenston Heights. There is so much to do and it’s so close to home!

Hamilton/Ancaster

More than just an up and coming downtown core, Hamilton is home to some beautiful hiking trails, great restaurants and thriving farmers markets. Check out the historic downtown farmers market that’s filled with artisan vendors and delicious Green Belt Vegetables. On the drive in take the Lakeshore through Oakville and Burlington to admire the waterfront and the beautiful homes that line it. It takes more time but gets you out and seeing more of our home in Southern Ontario. Venture down the Lincoln Alexander Parkway and take a look at Historic Ancaster. With hiking at Tiffany Falls, dining and brilliant golfing opportunities, we think you’ll find your home away from home!

Orillia

Have a bit more time on your hands? Take a trip up to Orillia and walk the beautiful waterfront of Lake Simcoe. Orillia is a beautiful community that boasts incredible boating traffic and cottagers that bring out the best in summer living. Enjoy their pier, boardwalk and numerous ice cream stands on a hot summer day. Need to stop for food along the way? Try the iconic Weber’s restaurant off highway 11, a restaurant so popular they had to build a bridge across the highway. Be prepared for a line up, every cottage bound person with an appetite will also be wanting one of these famous burgers (or veggie burgers). 

Bronte Creek Provincial Park

Looking to get out of the city but don’t feel like tackling too much pavement? Bronte Creek Provincial Park is the answer to your prayers. Located right in the GTA, Bronte is a beautiful provincial park that has groomed trails, activities and events making it perfect for a short day trip with friends or family. Simply exit the QEW at Burloak and a beautiful Ontario park. You can even camp overnight in an RV or tent in one of their family camping spots. The possibilities are endless!

There are so many great way to leave the city and explore the GTA and beyond in your vehicle. If you’re looking for a day trip idea in the GTA these are exceptional options for the casual outdoor explorer or the food lover in all of us! Take a look at some of these great spots all around us and enjoy driving your car, truck or SUV to any of Ontario’s little treasures. After your hike, have an interior detailing service, and rid your car the mud and grit in preparation for your next adventure!