The best road trips in Ontario: highlights and hidden gems

posted on October 2, 2024

From Niagara Falls to Algonquin Provincial Park, many of the most scenic Ontario road trips are just a few hours away from downtown Toronto.

Fall colours, lakeside getaways, and winter fun are just some of the attractions to be found across Ontario, along with historic landmarks, culinary delights, and charming small towns that are perfect for a getaway from the fast-paced culture of its largest city. Whether you enjoy camping trips or city breaks, there’s an Ontario road trip for you.

Road trips in Ontario come with the caveat of crowds on popular tourist routes, since it’s the most populous province in Canada. In this guide, we’ll explore the highlights of the province’s best road trips, as well as lesser-known sights, routes, and activities for a more unique, intimate, and leisurely itinerary.

Prepare to get to know Ontario like never before!

Niagara Falls road trip
Ottawa road trip
Prince Edward County road trip
Kawartha Lakes road trip
Algonquin Provincial Park road trip
The Bruce Peninsula road trip
Manitoulin Island and Killarney Provincial Park road trip
Lake Superior and Thunder Bay

Niagara Falls and beyond

Easily the most popular Ontario road trip destination, Niagara Falls is a classic day trip or weekend getaway from Toronto. For the best possible road trip to Niagara Falls, make sure to slow down and enjoy the sights and activities along the way throughout the Golden Horseshoe region.

Niagara Falls highlights

No Niagara road trip is complete without an up-close look at the Niagara Falls themselves. Take a boat tour to get up close and personal with its magnificent cascades and
Visit the Niagara Parks Botanical Gardens and nearby Butterfly Conservatory to discover 99 acres of vibrant plants and flowers and meet over 2,000 butterflies just a short drive from Niagara Falls.
Located just a 25 minute drive from Niagara Falls, Niagara-on-the-Lake is one of Ontario’s most charming towns, offering local history, a celebrated wine scene, romantic spas, and dazzling views of the Niagara Escarpment and surrounding countryside.

Hidden gems in Niagara Falls

On the way to Niagara Falls from Toronto, make a pit stop in Hamilton to check out the historic Dundurn Castle, an impressive villa dating to 1835. When you’re done exploring, stop by the Hamilton Farmer’s Market for lunch before hitting the road.
Visit the Niagara Glen Nature Reserve for a peaceful retreat from the tourist bustle of Niagara Falls, offering gorgeous views and hiking trails just a stone’s throw from the main sights.
For a scenic drive, hop behind the wheel of your rental car and cruise down the Niagara River Parkway to Port Colborne where you’ll find Nickel Beach, one of the best-loved beaches for a Niagara Falls sunrise, windsurfing, and picnics on the shore.

Ottawa and the Rideau Canal

Driving from Toronto to Ottawa is a tried and true Ontario road trip. Ottawa is home to some of Ontario’s most iconic sights like Parliament Hill and the Rideau Canal, Ontario’s only UNESCO World Heritage site.

Take Highway 7 for the best scenic drive from Toronto to Ottawa. From Montreal, it may be worth extending your route into a scenic drive up through the Laurentians to explore charming towns before reaching Wakefield and completing your road trip to Ottawa.

Ottawa highlights

Take a walking tour to see Parliament Hill is a must-do for a first visit to Ottawa. Afterwards, stroll along the Rideau Canal and cross into ByWard Market for endless choices for lunch or dinner.
The Rideau Canal is the only UNESCO World Heritage Site in Ontario, and is one of Ottawa’s most famous features. The waterway transforms into an outdoor skating rink during the winter months, but the historic waterway is worth exploring at any time of year.
Visiting a museum is a perfect rainy day activity in Ottawa. The National Gallery of Canada, Canadian War Museum, and the Canadian Museum of Nature are just a few options that will appeal to history buffs, art lovers, families, and everyone in between.

Hidden gems in Ottawa

Head to sandy Britannia Beach for a summer getaway, just a short drive from the city centre. The beach offers picnic spots, a children’s playground, and plenty of space for swimming or just relaxing on the sand.
Located just across the river, Gatineau Park is home to some of the best hikes in the Ottawa region, offering gorgeous views as well as camping for both the summer and winter months.
Delve into geological history with a day trip to the Bonnechere Caves for a unique and informative tour through underground tunnels riddled with stalactites, coral, and ancient cave creatures.

Prince Edward County

Known for its charming small towns, wineries, boutique accommodations, and the sandy beaches of Sandbanks Provincial Park, Prince Edward County is a beloved weekend road trip for many Ontarians. Located about 3 hours from Toronto or Ottawa, it offers a perfect countryside escape when you need a change of pace from the city.

Prince Edward County highlights

With three gorgeous sandy beaches and sweeping sand dunes, Sandbanks Provincial Park feels like a tropical getaway on the shores of Lake Ontario. Thanks to activities like camping and swimming, the park makes a perfect day out for all the family can enjoy.
With over 40 wineries, exploring the Prince Edward County wine scene is a treat for the senses. Book a tour and tasting to sip and sample to you heart’s content. Local favourites include Hinterland Wine Company, Waupoos Winery, and Closson Chase Winery.
Thanks to a rich culture of farming and agriculture, local dining and farmer’s markets in Prince Edward County make the region one of the best food scenes in Southern Ontario. Make sure your road trip includes a pit stop at local markets like the Wellington Farmer’s Market, or plan to visit during Countylicious, a culinary festival showcasing prix-fixe menus at restaurants throughout the region.

Hidden gems in Prince Edward County

True to its name, Lake on the Mountain Provincial Park is a mysterious freshwater lake formed at the top of a mountain, offering stunning views of the Bay of Quinte, a boardwalk stroll, hikinh trails, and scenic picnic spots.
Meander along the shore of Lake Ontario to discover Presqu’ile Provincial Park, home to the province’s second-oldest lighthouse. Enjoy a scenic stroll along the Marsh Boardwalk Trail and savour the fall colours and camping season through to the end of October.
Located in the charming hub of Picton, the historic Regent Theatre is one of the county’s main cultural attractions. Opened in 1918, it provides year-round entertainment to visitors and locals alike.

Kawartha Lakes

Ontario’s cottage country is one of its main attractions. Located less than 2 hours from Toronto by car, Kawartha Lakes is a favourite summer escape for local cottagers and visitors alike.

Known for its beautiful natural scenery and its charming small towns, it can be a less crowded option than Muskoka for waterfront views and family road trips.

Kawartha Lakes highlights

Balsam Lake is one of the best provincial parks in the region for a day out in nature. Known for its accessible hiking trails, fishing, and sandy beach, it’s a local favourite for family-friendly road trips.
No trip to Kawartha Lakes is complete without a stop at the original Bobcaygeon location of Kawartha Dairy, one of the most beloved and enduring ice cream makers in Ontario. Plan a pit stop and treat yourself!
Take a hike on one of the many trail networks in Kawartha Lakes, accessible to all ages and abilities, including the Victoria Rail Trail and the Kawartha Trans Canada Trail.

Hidden gems in Kawartha Lakes

Kawartha Lakes is alive with theatre and performing arts. Catch a show at one of the many venues including the Grove Theatre, FLATO Academy Theatre, or Globus Theatre during your stay.
Hop in your rental car and enjoy a scenic fall drive through Kawartha Lakes to experience the region’s brilliant foliage. Loops from Lindsay, Omemee, and Fenelon Falls offer gorgeous Ontario views and opportunities to stop and explore local farm stalls and country stores.
Travel back in time with a visit to The Horseless Carriage, a family-run museum showcasing pre-1914 transportation such as antique cars, as well as a shop of handicrafts, candies, and homemade preserves.

Algonquin Provincial Park

As the oldest provincial park in Canada, Algonquin Park is legendary when it comes to Ontario road trips. Spanning 7,700 square kilometres, Algonquin is an unmatched natural playground of pristine forests, cliffs, lakes, and rivers. When it comes to spotting wildlife and witnessing Ontario’s natural beauty, so don’t be surprised to encounter moose, bears, wolves, or loons during your visit!

Algonquin Provincial Park highlights

The Highway 60 corridor is the ultimate scenic drive through Algonquin Park, and may make this the most beautiful road trip Ontario has to offer. The region is known for inspiring legendary Canadian artist Tom Thomson, and comes alive with breathtaking colours every fall.
No visit to Algonquin Park is complete without taking part in the many outdoor activities the park offers. There are hiking trails for all skill levels, and the park offers canoe rentals for portaging or short-term use. In winter, snowshoeing, dog-sledding, and cross-country skiing are just some of the activities on offer in Ontario’s oldest provincial park.
Visit the Algonquin Visitors Centre and Algonquin Logging Museum to learn about the history of the park, as well as its ecology and role in the logging industry.

Hidden gems in Algonquin Provincial Park

The Lake of Bays Scenic Drive is a captivating, self-guided route an hour from Algonquin Park that winds through the villages of Baysville, Dwight, and Dorset to explore local art, craft breweries, restaurants, and natureal scenery. The route is a must-do for autumn road trips, offering a front-row seat to explosive fall colours.
In the winter months, head to nearby Arrowhead Provincial Park, a perfect destination to discover cozy cabin stays and an enchanting skating trail through the woods.
En route to Algonquin Park from the city of Huntsville, Oxtongue River-Ragged Falls Provincial Park is well worth the stop. An easy hiking trail leads to the waterfall, considered one of the most beautiful in Ontario.

The Bruce Peninsula

Thanks to its turquoise waters and stunning Georgian Bay views, Bruce Peninsula National Park is a hugely popular road trip destination during the summer. It can be challenging to find a campsite or parking spot if you don’t book in advance, so the key to enjoying your visit is to plan ahead, especially when it comes to accommodation and car rental.

Located about a four hour drive from Toronto, the Bruce Peninsula is ideal for a weekend getaway from the city and can easily be extended into a longer trip to explore more sights and activities at other provincial parks in the region, including hikes along the renowned Bruce Trail.

Bruce Peninsula highlights

Situated at the northern tip of the Bruce Peninsula, Tobermory is the jumping-off point for some of the most breathtaking experiences in this region of Ontario. Book a ferry to Flowerpot Island, a glass-bottom boat tour, or even try your hand at scuba diving to explore Fathom Five National Marine Park. Ferries to Manitoulin Island are also available if you want to extend your road trip.
The Grotto is a geological marvel and the most popular attraction in Bruce Peninsula National Park, making it a must-visit on any Ontario road trip. Prepare for a 45-minute hike to access this iconic site of natural beauty overlooking Georgian Bay.
Located just a 10 minute drive from Tobermory, Singing Sands Beach is one of the most popular beaches in Bruce Peninsula National Park, known for its sand dunes and scenic walking trails. Show up early with your national park pass to make sure you find a place to park.

Hidden gems in the Bruce Peninsula

Make a stop in Wiarton to explore Sprit Rock Conversation Area or to cool off at family-friendly Bluewater Park, home to Wiarton Willie himself! Nature lovers can try conquering the nearby Jones Bluff loop, part of the Bruce Trail.
Venture down the Lake Huron shore or the Niagara Escarpment to explore beaches and charming towns including Sauble Beach, Oliphant, Lion’s Head, Port Elgin, and more.
Take a scenic lighthouse drive along the Lake Huron shoreline from Point Clark all the way up to Tobermory. Pit stops include Kincardine, Saugeen Shores, and Cape Croker – all home to local craft breweries and hiking trails.

Manitoulin Island and Killarney Provincial Park

Situated along the irresistible shorelines of Georgian Bay and Lake Huron, Manitoulin Island and Killarney Provincial Park offer some of the most beautiful scenery in the province with a front row view of the Great Lakes.

Located under 90 minutes each from the hub of Sudbury, they’re the perfect destination for Ontario road trips where getting into nature is on the agenda.

Manitoulin Island and Killarney Provincial Park highlights

Bridal Veil Falls and the Cup and Saucer Trail are two of the must-see natural attractions on Manitoulin Island along the Niagara Escarpment, perfect for a day out exploring the island.
Killarney is considered one of the best provincial parks in Ontario for camping. From backcountry and frontcountry sites to heated winter cabins and yurts, there are year-round experiences for every level of experience.
Killarney’s hiking trails promise breathtaking viewpoints of the Georgian Bay Coast, from leisurely family-friendly strolls to the popular Crack Trail, a challenging climb with a scenic lake and unbeatable view at its peak.

Hidden gems in Manitoulin Island and Killarney Provincial Park

Take a detour to Killbear Provincial Park on your way up Highway 400 in your Toronto car rental for a day visit on the trails along the Georgian Bay shore.
Visit the quainttown of Killarney itself and explore the picturesque harbour, views of the Great Lakes, and a walking trail to the Killarney East Lighthouse.
Take part in a Manitoulin Island guided tour along the Great Spirit Circle Trail for an immersive look into 10,000 years of indigenous history.

Lake Superior and Thunder Bay

If you love outdoor activities, this is the Ontario road trip for you. Remote and rugged, Northern Ontario takes more effort and planning to get to, but the reward is more than worth it.

From pristine shorelines to cultural attractions, Lake Superior and Thunder Bay offers the perfect itinerary for anyone who wants to get closer to nature as part of a longer Ontario road trip.

Lake Superior and Thunder Bay highlights

Known as “The Soo to Wawa”, the stretch of Highway 17 from Sault Ste. Marie to Wawa is considered one of the best scenic drives Ontario has to offer. Plan to stay near Lake Superior Provincial Park or book a campsite to explore the trails for a few days to truly savour it.
Thunder Bay’s waterfront at Prince Arthur’s Landing promises year-round events and plenty of shops and restaurants to explore. Browse public art, drop in on a summer concert, or go skating in the winter to get your dose of local culture.
Named for an Ojibwe legend, Sleeping Giant Provincial Park is home to astounding natural beauty offers a pristine backdrop for year-round outdoor activities along with clear views of the Milky Way and northern lights.

Hidden gems in Lake Superior and Thunder Bay

As the most remote national park in Ontario, Pukaskwa National Park is an escape into a world of unparalleled natural beauty. It’s the perfect getaway for a multi-day camping trip, as well as home to some of the best hiking trails in the province.
Fort William Historic Park in Thunder Bay is one of the largest historical parks in North America, offering an educational day out for history buffs of all ages, including a campground, observatory, as well as local festivals and events.
Known as the “Niagara of the North”, Kakabeka Falls is the second-largest in Ontario. Located just 30 minutes west of Thunder Bay in Kakabeka Falls Provincial Park, it makes a stunning day trip option with plenty of outdoor activities.

Frequently asked questions about planning a road trip in Ontario

How many days you do you need to explore Ontario?

It depends on how far you’ll be driving, your personal pace of travel, and how much you plan to see and do. For a city break like driving from Toronto to Ottawa, a weekend is just enough time to explore and check out the highlights if you’re taking the quickest route.

But why rush? If you’re planning to travel to a further destination like the Bruce Peninsula, Manitoulin Island, or Prince Edward County, seven to ten days is a perfect amount of time to set your own pace and soak up the sights.

When is the best time of year to visit Ontario?

It all comes down to what you want to experience. If cottaging and lake country is on your list, summer is the best time to visit Ontario. Be sure to book accommodation like cottages or campsites well in advance, since this is also the busiest time of year for travel!

Late spring and autumn are also popular times to visit, with early October being the best time to admire the fall colours. There are also plenty of ski hills and winter activities to enjoy in the winter.

Where can I go for a weekend getaway in Ontario?

There are countless choices for a memorable weekend escape in Ontario. It all depends on the type of trip you want!

For a city break, Toronto, Ottawa and London are great choices for a weekend away. If unplugging and connecting with nature is what you’re after, why not spend a couple of nights at one of Ontario’s beautiful provincial and national parks?

What is the best city to visit in the US near Toronto?

Thinking of extending your Ontario road trip? New York is a classic destination, approximately 8-9 hours from Toronto with plenty to see and do along the way.

Visiting Niagara Falls? Hop across the border to visit Buffalo, famous for its architecture and waterfront.

What kind of rental car should I take to Ontario?

When it comes to choosing a rental car for your trip, think about what will be the best fit for the activities you have planned and who will be joining you. If you’re heading into the great outdoors or travelling with family or friends, try a roomy and sturdy SUV. For a romantic getaway, why not treat yourself to a luxury model or sports car?

Browse cars on Turo

Is Ontario affordable to visit?

You might be wondering how expensive Ontario’s towns and cities are, or asking yourself: what’s the cheapest way to travel to Ottawa from Toronto? In the end, an Ontario road trip is as affordable as you make it.

Travelling in the low season, preparing your own meals, or camping are all great strategies to keep costs down when you visit Ontario. Check out our guide to affordable road trips for tips and tricks to plan a budget-friendly trip of a lifetime.

Is visiting Ontario worth it?

Yes! Whether you’re visiting from out of province or looking to explore beyond the GTA, Ontario is well worth a visit. Whether you want to unwind in lake country or get lost in a new city, Ontario offers something for everyone.

Find the perfect rental car for Ontario

Why choose Turo for your Ontario road trip?

Flexible pick-up and drop-off options

Don’t let traditional rental companies determine your final stop. Many Turo hosts offer delivery to airport locations like Toronto Pearson International Airport and convenient pick-up options so you can start and end your trip wherever you choose.

Family-sized adventure

Spend time with friends and family and explore Ontario’s scenic routes in comfort with a larger rental car perfect for group travel. Whether you’re seeking a roomy SUV for you and your friends or a minivan all the family can enjoy, Turo hosts have you covered.

Rental cars for every season

Whether you need snow tires for an enchanting winter escape or a sturdy SUV for the scenic drives Ontario offers in the fall, you’ll find the right car on Turo for a safe and comfortable journey.

Want to be the one to bring this road trip to life? We’re searching for someone to take on this road trip and capture the magic along the way. If you’re a traveller, storyteller, or content creator ready to hit the road and share this experience, submit your idea to Pitch a Trip for a chance to have Turo cover your vehicle booking. Every month, we select our favourite pitches—this could be your opportunity to turn this itinerary into a reality and share the story with us!

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