Sometimes You Just Need to Get Out of the City
Last fall, I hit a wall. Between back-to-back meetings, traffic noise, and the never-ending scroll, I knew I needed out—even if just for a weekend. So I packed a bag, grabbed a friend, and hit the road. What followed? Forest hikes, butter tarts the size of my head, and one unforgettable night under a sky full of stars.
If you’re feeling the same itch to escape, here are three Ontario road trips that actually deliver—and one that’s still flying under the radar.
1. Prince Edward County – For Wine, Art, and Waterfront Charm
Drive time from Toronto: ~2.5 hours
Keywords: Prince Edward County weekend trip, Ontario wine road trip
Think: rolling vineyards, cozy Airbnbs, and farm-to-table brunches. Prince Edward County is a dreamy escape for couples, friends, or solo travellers who want to unwind without roughing it.
What to Do
- Sip at local wineries like Grange of Prince Edward or Closson Chase
- Stroll through Bloomfield and Picton’s charming shops
- Walk the sand dunes at Sandbanks Provincial Park
Where to Eat
- Bloomfield Public House: Upscale comfort food done right
- The Vic Café: Colourful, veg-friendly, and vibey
2. Tobermory – Ontario’s Turquoise Water Capital
Drive time from Toronto: ~4 hours
Keywords: Tobermory road trip, Bruce Peninsula getaway
If you thought Ontario lakes couldn’t be crystal clear, think again. Tobermory’s the spot for dramatic cliffs, deep-blue coves, and bucket-list hikes.
What to Do
- Swim or paddle near the Grotto (book your time slot early!)
- Take a glass-bottom boat to Flowerpot Island
- Hike the Bruce Trail or camp near Cyprus Lake
What to Know
- Peak season (July-Aug) gets crowded. Go shoulder season for fewer crowds.
- Canoo members get access to Bruce Peninsula National Park—save the entry fee for a post-hike treat.
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3. Elora & Fergus – Small-Town Vibes & River Views
Drive time from Toronto: ~1.5 hours
Keywords: Elora Gorge weekend trip, small town Ontario getaway
This one’s perfect for when you want a slower pace. Elora has just the right mix of natural beauty and village charm—ideal for a relaxed weekend stroll, a vintage shop run, or a riverside lunch.
What to Do
- Walk the trails along Elora Gorge
- Browse the Elora Centre for the Arts
- Check out the Fergus Scottish Festival in August
Where to Eat
- Elora Mill Restaurant: Stunning views with your brunch
- The Lost and Found Café: Great coffee and people-watching
Bonus: Bon Echo Provincial Park – The Hidden Gem
Drive time from Toronto: ~3.5 hours
Keywords: Bon Echo camping, hidden gems Ontario
Tucked between Ottawa and Toronto, Bon Echo is often overlooked—and that’s what makes it special. Massive cliffs, ancient pictographs, and peaceful lakes make this a nature-lover’s dream.
Why You’ll Love It
- Canoe or kayak past Mazinaw Rock, covered in Indigenous pictographs
- Swim or chill on a secluded dock
- Camp beneath a starry sky (and maybe spot a loon or two)
Good to Know: Canoo members get free access to Bon Echo with a valid Parks Ontario pass through the app. Just show your Canoo ID at the gate.
Ready to Hit the Road?
Whether you’re chasing waterfalls, wine tastings, or total peace and quiet, Ontario has something for every kind of traveller. And the best part? You don’t need a big budget—just a full tank, good snacks, and your Canoo app.
🚗 Download Canoo and get free access to Ontario’s provincial parks and Canada’s national parks, museums, cultural sites, and more—just for being a new Canadian.
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