A few weeks ago I shared with you a list of 10 cities to visit outside Toronto for the day, to help you explore around Toronto. But you deserve a longer stay to get away from city life and recharge your batteries. Wondering where to go for a weekend away from Toronto? I’ve got you covered. In this article, I suggest 5 cities to explore for a weekend around Toronto!
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Kingston
Let’s start our list with the city of Kingston. It’s well known for its student life, as it’s home to one of Ontario’s great universities: Queens University. If you’re visiting Kingston for the weekend, you can take the opportunity to visit the 1000 Islands. The city’s waterfront location means you can stroll along the lakefront and explore the historic town.
Find out how to get there and what to do during your visit to Kingston (article coming soon).
Toronto – Kingston by car or train: 2 hours.
Bruce Peninsula
It’s probably one of the most popular spots in the province. Bruce Peninsula moves the crowds, yet it rarely feels crowded. Entrance to the park is controlled to limit the number of people per hour. My advice: really book your entrance in advance. The water is so clear, you’re immediately transported thousands of kilometres away in just 3.5 hours.
Find out how to get there and what to do when you visit Bruce Peninsula.
Toronto – Niagara on the Lake by car: 3.5 hours.
Southampton
Ahhh this is one of the weekend suggestions outside Toronto that I love to recommend. It’s a city I particularly like. I love the slightly Californian vibe, seaside town, beach and quiet life. I’ve been there twice and I’m already planning to go back. And the people are incredibly friendly.
Find out how to get there and what to do when you visit Southampton (article coming soon).
Toronto – Southampton by car: 3 hours.
Collingwood
It’s funny because I always thought it was the city you had to travel to to visit your family. Without really wanting to go. But guess what? It’s a really cool town. Right on the water. With great coffee shops. I recommend this city in all seasons. In winter, it’s right next to the Blue Mountain ski resort, and in summer or autumn, you can explore the surrounding area and take some lovely walks.
Find out how to get there and what to do during your visit to Collingwood (article to come).
Toronto – Collingwood by car or train: 2 hours.
Rice Lake
This weekend option outside Toronto is more for a relaxing weekend. And we all need it! You can enjoy activities by the lake, visit the surrounding towns, read in one of the nearby cafés. And it’s all just a 1.5-hour drive from Toronto.
Find out how to get there and what to do during your visit to Niagara on the Lake (article to come).
Toronto – Rice Lake by car: 1.5 hours.
I hope these suggestions for cities to visit around Toronto help you enjoy a weekend exploring Ontario. If you have any other cities you’ve enjoyed, please feel free to share them with me in the comments. Enjoy your stay!
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