by Turo
posted on June 5, 2025
The Toronto to Buffalo drive is short, scenic, and full of things to do. With the right plan, you can hit a few great stops, cross the border, and still make it in time for dinner. This road trip guide covers the route, the best places to explore, and how to bring it all together!
In this guide, we’ll be covering:
- Tips for driving from Toronto to Buffalo
- How are the road conditions between Toronto and Buffalo?
- What is the best time of year to drive from Toronto to Buffalo?
- Are there EV chargers along the way between Toronto and Buffalo?
- Where to stop while driving from Toronto to Buffalo
- FAQs about the Toronto to Buffalo road trip
- Book your rental car in Toronto with Turo
Tips for driving from Toronto to Buffalo
The highway stays in good shape all year. The QEW and I-190 are major routes with steady maintenance and clear signage. Construction pops up near Niagara now and then, but it rarely slows things down too much.
How are the road conditions between Toronto and Buffalo?
The roads are in good shape year-round. Autoroute 15 and I-87 are both major highways with clear signage and regular maintenance. Winter storms can hit hard on the Quebec side, so check conditions before heading out.
What is the best time of year to drive from Toronto to Buffalo?
Spring through early fall is the smoothest season for Toronto road trips. Summer brings longer days, open patios, and fewer weather-related delays. Autumn is a close second, though. Traffic thins out, and the Niagara region lights up with colour. Just avoid long weekends when border traffic tends to back up.
Are there EV chargers along the way between Toronto and Buffalo?
You’ll find plenty of charging stations along the route. There are fast chargers in major towns as you drive through Ontario and across the border in Buffalo. Most are near rest stops or shopping plazas, so it’s easy to top up while grabbing a coffee or stretching your legs.
Where to stop while driving from Toronto to Buffalo
Driving from Toronto to Buffalo doesn’t have to be a straight shot. There are plenty of low-effort, high-reward stops just off the highway that can add a little something extra to your road trip or weekend getaway without throwing you off schedule.
Welland Canal Park Trail – St. Catharines, ON
This multi-use path runs alongside the Welland Canal and is perfect for a quick walk or a relaxed bike ride. It’s just off the QEW, with parking lots near Glendale Avenue and other trailheads.
- Distance from Toronto: 110 km (~1 hour 20 minutes)
- Distance to Buffalo: 50 km (~40 minutes)
Why it’s great
Flat, quiet, and close to the highway – it’s a scenic break that doesn’t slow you down. You’ll see ships pass by while stretching your legs.
Practical tips
The trail is long and mostly open, so bring water, sunscreen, and good walking shoes. Some areas have benches and maps, but amenities are limited.
How to get there
Take the QEW from Toronto – it’s a direct drive with easy signage the whole way. If you’re flying in, book a Toronto airport car rental with Turo and have the car delivered right after you land. Choose a roomy SUV from Toyota or Jeep, load up all your luggage, and hit the road!
Niagara-on-the-Lake
A short detour off the QEW brings you to Niagara-on-the-Lake, a historic town known for its surrounding vineyards, charming streets, and beautiful views over Lake Ontario. It’s quiet, scenic, and easy to explore in a few hours.
- Distance from Toronto: 130 km (~1.5 hours)
- Distance to Buffalo: 55 km (~45 minutes)
Why it’s great
It’s beautiful year-round and full of things to do. Wine tastings, small boutiques, and paths for walking along the shore are all within minutes of each other.
Practical tips
Parking is easy during the week but can get busier on weekends. Many wineries offer tastings without reservations, but it’s best to call ahead in summer.
How to get there
Exit the QEW at Glendale Avenue or Highway 55 and follow the signs into town. A minivan is perfect for this stop – you’ll have space for the whole family to spread out, and to fit your wine purchases and market finds. Look for models from Chevrolet, Chrysler, or Ford for a comfortable ride.
Niagara Glen Nature Centre
Just outside Niagara Falls, this protected area has forest trails, boulder-lined paths, and views of the Niagara River Whirlpool. Stop here on your way to the falls to see one of the Natural Wonders of North America through a different lens.
- Distance from Toronto: 130 km (~1.5 hours)
- Distance to Buffalo: 50 km (~40 minutes)
Why it’s great
The trails here are shaded, steep in parts, and totally worth the effort. You get close to nature without losing sight of the river.
Practical tips
Wear sturdy shoes and check the trail map before heading out. The visitor centre has restrooms and staff who can help with routes.
How to get there
Follow the Niagara Parkway south from the QEW and watch for signs near the Whirlpool. Make your Toronto rental car an electric vehicle to keep the trip quiet and low-impact. There are plenty of charging stations nearby to top up your EV or Tesla rental while you stretch your legs.
Niagara Falls
Even if you’ve seen it before, Niagara Falls is always worth a stop. You can walk along the promenade, grab a bite, or just take in the power of the water before your border crossing.
- Distance from Toronto: 130 km (~1.5 hours)
- Distance to Buffalo: 40 km (~30 minutes)
Why it’s great
It’s one of the most visited natural landmarks in North America and still lives up to the hype. The view never gets old, and there are plenty of experiences you won’t find anywhere else.
Practical tips
Expect crowds, especially midday. Paid parking fills up fast near the falls, but there are garages and lots within walking distance. Plan to spend an hour or two.
How to get there
Take the QEW to Highway 420 and follow the signs into the tourist district. A compact car rental is the easiest choice for crowded lots and narrow spaces. Look for smaller, sporty models like a Nissan, Toyota, or BMW and make parking a breeze.
The Famous Buffalo Wings at Anchor Bar
This is where it all started – the original home of Buffalo wings. Anchor Bar is a must-stop for anyone hungry after the drive. It’s right in the heart of downtown, and a great jumping-off point to explore the city.
Distance from Toronto: 160 km (~2 hours)
Why it’s great
This is a pilgrimage for foodies from around the world, and the wings live up to the hype. The space is lively without being overwhelming, and the food comes fast.
Practical tips
Go early or aim for mid-afternoon – lunch and dinner rushes fill up fast. There’s a small parking lot in the back, but nearby street parking works too.
How to get there
Once you’re in Buffalo, head toward Main Street in the downtown core. A classic car or sports car adds some fun to a short city drive. Rent a Chevy, Porsche, or a convertible and pull up in style.
Frequently asked questions about the Toronto to Buffalo road trip
Where is Buffalo, NY?
Buffalo is in western New York, right at the eastern edge of Lake Erie and just across the border from southern Ontario. It’s about 160 km (100 miles) southeast of Toronto, connected by the QEW and the Peace Bridge, making it a great option for a day trip.
Visitors from Canada will often fly into Toronto Pearson International Airport, but Buffalo also has an international airport with flights to and from major U.S. cities. The road trip from Toronto typically takes two hours, depending on traffic and border wait times.
What’s the quickest way to drive from Toronto to Buffalo?
Stick to Autoroute 15 south, cross at the Lacolle–Champlain border, and continue on I-87 to Plattsburgh. It’s direct, well-signed, and usually takes about 90 minutes.
What do I need to know about crossing the border into New York State?
Take the QEW toward Niagara Falls, then cross the border via the Peace Bridge. From there, follow I-190 South into downtown Buffalo.
What kind of car should you drive from Toronto to Buffalo, NY?
It depends on your plans. Compact cars are great for city stops like Niagara Falls. Minivans or SUVs offer more room for day trips and shopping. Electric vehicles work well too – there are chargers on both sides of the border.
What do I need to know about crossing the border into New York State?
You’ll need a valid passport or approved travel document. Keep your ID and vehicle info ready, and be prepared to answer a few basic questions.
Is there a toll on the way from Toronto to Buffalo?
There are no tolls on the QEW or the Peace Bridge when crossing into the U.S. You might encounter tolls on some New York State highways if you keep driving past Buffalo, but the main route is toll-free.
Book your rental car in Toronto with Turo
Ready to work out the details of your U.S. road trip from Toronto? Skip the counter and book a rental car in Toronto that fits your plans. With Turo, you can choose the exact vehicle you want and have it delivered to your home, hotel, or the airport.
Whether you’re packing light, bringing the whole family, or just looking for something fun to drive, there’s a car that fits your trip.
Feeling inspired? Pitch a Trip and let Turo sponsor your vehicle rental to turn this adventure into a reality! Whether you’re a storyteller, photographer, or just love to travel, this could be your chance to share your experience with the world.
