Ontario is Canada’s second-largest province, containing 10.8% of the nation’s total area. Considering Ontario has so much land to explore, Ontario travelers are lucky to have so many unique adventures just a few hours from home. In fact, these seven amazing day trips that are worth the drive can each be a fun way to explore the region and travel far and wide without breaking the bank. For example, just a few hours from Canada’s capital of Ottawa is one of the province’s most beautiful parks, Algonquin. This is a great park to day trip to for a hiking adventure. Or consider Elora, a small town that’s just a couple hours from Toronto; it’s a great place to experience a charming trek along the magnificent Grand River. Whether you are looking for an afternoon of hiking or a morning at the beach, these seven Ontario day trips are well worth the drive.

Muskoka’s Cranberry Marshes

Muskoka Lakes Farm & Winery is a unique day trip spot where visitors can tour one of Ontario’s wineries in the beautiful Muskoka area. Just under a 2.5-hour drive from Toronto, this is the perfect day trip for anyone looking to experience the beauty of the Muskoka area at a unique winery. Around the winery, visitors can explore its miles of trails and admire the 27 acres of cranberries. Tour the facilities of the winery on the Bog to Bottle Tour. Afterwards, relax on the Muskoka patio while sipping cranberry wine and cider. Throughout the year the winery hosts special events for kids so there is something for the whole family to enjoy. The farm is open year-round to visit, but a popular time is in the fall. This is when the annual Cranberry Plunge takes place. Get an amazing photo opt wading in cranberries.

Thinking of taking a trip to Niagara Falls but don’t know what to do after? Consider spending a day at Niagara-on-the-Lake. The historic town is full of charming boutique shops, cafes, restaurants, and galleries. Spend some time exploring the historic landmarks such as the Prince of Wales Hotel, the Old Courthouse, and the Memorial Clock Tower. Check out the Niagara Apothecary, a unique museum of an old pharmacy. Learn about the town’s history at the Niagara-on-the-Lake Museum. The museum has an amazing collection of over 40,000 artifacts. While walking around, stop at one of the local bakeries such as Balzac’s for a tasty treat. Stop at Queen’s Royal Park for a break from the traffic and amazing views of where the Niagara River meets Lake Ontario. Afterwards, hike or bike along the scenic Niagara Parkway. The road goes alongside the beautiful Niagara River.