Discover the best weekend getaways in Ontario—from romantic escapes and cozy cottage retreats to thrilling outdoor adventures and vibrant city breaks. Your ultimate 2025 guide to weekend travel in Ontario.
Top Weekend Getaways in Ontario
1. Niagara Falls
Best For: Romance, families, wine lovers
Niagara Falls brings the drama, but it also delivers on romance. Couples can indulge in spa packages, dine while overlooking the falls, and sip ice wine at nearby vineyards. Just a short ride away is the quaint town of Niagara-on-the-Lake, where you can unwind by a wood-burning fireplace after a day of boutique browsing and French cuisine.
Plan Your Trip to Niagara Falls
Getting there: 1.5 hours from Toronto by car and Niagara is an hour’s drive from Hamilton and an hour and a half from Toronto. How to Get From Toronto to Niagara Falls – Bus, Train, Transit, And Car
Top Stay: Niagara Falls Marriott Fallsview Hotel & Spa
2. Ottawa
Best For: History buffs, couples, and families
Canada’s capital offers a scenic blend of culture, architecture, and outdoor activities. Stroll Parliament Hill, skate the Rideau Canal in winter, or explore the culinary scene featuring everything from comfort food to elevated table d’hôte menus.
Book a foodie tour to really delve into the Ottawa Experience.
Plan your trip to Ottawa
3. Toronto
Best For: Urban explorers, foodies, nightlife
Explore world-class museums, waterfront biking trails, and thriving local breweries. Toronto’s neighborhoods are bursting with culture, cuisine, and entertainment—perfect for a weekend getaway packed with energy.
Plan your trip to Toronto
Best accommodation option in Toronto – The Ritz Carlton is close to the Fairmont Royal York, Roy Thompson Hall and the Princess of Wales Theatre, the CN Tower, the Entertainment District, and the Harbourfront.
4. Prince Edward County
Best For: Wine, food, and art lovers
Home to some of Ontario’s best sparkling wine and beautiful beaches, “The County” is ideal for adults looking to indulge in farm-to-table dining, boutique inns, and serene lakefront walks.
Plan Your Trip to Prince Edward County
It is about a 2.5-hour drive from Toronto Pearson International Airport, 3 hours from Ottawa’s Macdonald-Cartier International Airport, and 3.5 hours from the Montreal-Trudeau International Airport.
5. Blue Mountain & Collingwood
Best For: Skiing, spa weekends, hiking trails
A year-round resort town packed with outdoor activities. Hit the slopes, soak in Scandinave Spa, hike to panoramic lookouts, or simply relax by the fire.
Collingwood is an action-packed destination in Ontario. In the summer, you can explore limestone caves, and in winter, it is the best place in Ontario for skiing. You can get all your family zipping down the slopes at Blue Mountain Resort in winter and then escape to the hot tub apres ski. It truly is the perfect weekend getaway anytime of the year.
Plan Your Trip to Blue Mountain
Getting there: Blue Mountain Village is just over a two-hour drive from Toronto and is full of things to do.
6. Stratford
Best For: Theatre, strolls, and French cuisine
Enjoy a romantic escape in this walkable town known for the Stratford Festival, its Victorian architecture, and cozy dining spots perfect for dinner with a special someone.
Plan Your Trip to Stratford
Getting There: Stratford is easily accessible from major cities like Toronto and London, either by car or via a scenic train ride on VIA Rail.
Top Stay: The Bruce Hotel
7. Muskoka
Best For: Cottage getaways, lakes, nature
Located in the heart of cottage country, Muskoka takes the cake. Think tranquil mornings by the lake, hiking trails through fall foliage, and evenings curled up in a lodge with a roaring fire. Muskoka is the quintessential Ontario cottage destination.
Plan Your Trip to Muskoka
Top Stay: JW Marriott The Rosseau Muskoka
8. Paris, Ontario
Best For: River tubing, romance, Wellington County charm
Kayak the Grand River, browse boutique shops, or take in views from the scenic footbridge. This small-town gem is ideal for a relaxing weekend getaway with friends or a romantic escape.
Plan Your Trip to Paris
Apart from shopping and enjoying the cafes of downtown Paris, you can try some activities like river tubing or kayaking on the Grand River, visiting Alexander Graham Bells House, or cycling the Hubs of Ontario Trails. Read our complete guide: 27 Things to do in Paris, Ontario – A Local’s Guide
Accommodation in Paris – Arlington Hotel established in 1851 and offers historical, chic accommodation.
9. Tobermory & Bruce Peninsula
Best For: Hiking, diving, and Georgian Bay adventures
Known for its crystal waters and epic hiking trails, this destination is a haven for nature lovers. Don’t miss the Grotto or a boat ride to Flowerpot Island.
Bruce Peninsula Park is over 30,000 acres in size and is an absolute haven for outdoor lovers.
The best thing to do in the park is to visit its natural attractions, like Flowerpot Island, Little Cove, and Fathom Five National Marine Park in Tobermory. Read our guide on things to do in Tobermory.
Plan Your Trip to Tobermory
Getting There: From Toronto, it is a three-and-a-half-hour drive.
You can book a day trip from Toronto to Tobermory. This tour includes a guide and driver that takes you to visit the lighthouse and hiking to see the beautiful cliffs of Georgian Bay. You’ll visit The Grotto, Indian Head Cove, and Marr Lake.
Top Stay: Tobermory Princess Hotel
This beautiful waterfront cottage is 5km from downtown Tobermory. It offers kayaking and beautiful views for sunset. Camping is one of the best options for accommodation in Tobermory in the summer. Tobermory Village Campground or Cyprus Lake Campground.
10. Kingston
Best For: History and lake views
Tour Fort Henry, enjoy a Thousand Islands cruise, or relax with a lakeside dinner. Kingston mixes heritage with waterside relaxation.
Plan Your Trip to Kingston
Getting There: Kingston is located just a three-hour drive from Toronto or two hours and twenty minutes by train.
Best accommodation option in Kingston – Delta Hotels by Marriott Kingston Waterfront is beautiful, though. The three-star hotel features an indoor rooftop pool and an onsite restaurant.
11. Elora
Best For: Romance, spa, and Elora Gorge adventure
With its cliffside views, the Elora Mill Hotel & Spa is one of the top accommodations in Ontario. Soak in luxury while exploring the nearby gorge or enjoying a couple’s pampering package.
Plan Your Trip to Elora
Elora is also located next to Elora Gorge – a dramatic gorge cutting through cliffs with the Grand River running through the middle. You can admire the gorge from multiple viewpoints. If you feel inspired for some adventure, go tubing or kayaking on a different section of the Grand River.
Getting There: It is just an hour and a half from Toronto, so book a hotel and stay for dinner.
Best accommodation option in Elora – Elora Mill Hotel & Spa. The historic hotel is set in an old riverside mill and features rooms with a fireplace, a full-service spa, a gym, and yoga facilities.
12. Grand Bend
Best For: Summer vibes, beautiful beaches, and nightlife
With golden sands, vibrant summer energy, and epic sunsets over Lake Huron, Grand Bend is an Ontario beach getaway favorite.
My family had a cottage here growing up and my parents retired here for about 10 years, so we know Grand Bend well.
Plan Your Trip to Grand Bend
Nature lovers will enjoy a visit to Pinery Provincial Park for some camping. You can relax on a patio in one of the downtown restaurants. Catch a show at Huron Country Playhouse, or enjoy its excellent beach.
Getting There: Grand Bend is approximately two hours from Hamilton and one hour from Windsor and is ideally situated for a relaxing getaway.
Best accommodation option in Grand Bend – Amber Hotel is the best accommodation TripAdvisor here.
13. Killarney Provincial Park
Best for: Nature photography, hiking, and serenity
Unplug and explore pink granite cliffs and peaceful inland lakes. This is a top destination for breathtaking views and peaceful hikes.
Plan Your Trip to Grand Killarny
Top Stay: Killarney Lodge is an all-inclusive park hotel with rustic lakeside cabins – well worth a look at.
15. Langdon Hall – Cambridge
Another complete Romantic Ontario getaway is Langdon Hall in Cambridge. This property has the distinction of being recognized by Relais & Châteaux for a standard of excellence.
The Five Diamond dining experience is the perfect romantic evening out and its spa packages include a half-day retreat of a Swedish massage, facials, and manicure and pedicure. There is a huge hot tub, saunas, and steam rooms to chill out in for the afternoon. Compare prices on TripAdvisor
16. St. Jacobs
Best For: Markets, dining, and Mennonite charm
Not far from Langdon Hall is St. Jacobs. Browse local food stalls, shop artisan goods, and dive into culture in this charming Waterloo Region destination.
Plan Your Trip to St. Jacobs
Top Stay: Hotel 52 St. Jacobs
16. Haliburton Highlands
Best For: Lakes, hiking, and forest adventure
Hit the trails, book a couples’ package at a nearby inn, or simply enjoy outdoor activities like snowshoeing in winter or canoeing in summer.
And when you aren’t enjoying outdoor activities around Haliburton, Stay at Sir Sams where can enjoy complimentary spa access to its waterspa. There are plenty of activities for both summer and winter trips, from skiing and snowshoeing to boating and fishing. Book your weekend getaway here
Plan Your Trip to Haliburton
Getting There: Haliburton is a three-and-a-half-hour drive from Ottawa, so it is well-placed for a weekend of luxury.
Top Stay: Sir Sams Resort and Spa
16. Temagami
Best For: Wilderness and stargazing
A backcountry paradise where guests can paddle, portage, and truly unwind beneath the stars. Perfect for reconnecting with nature.
Top Stay: Smoothwater Outfitters & Lodge
18. Lake of Bays
Best For: Adults-only serenity and nature
Home to upscale lodges, lakefront resorts, and endless opportunity for rest and relaxation. Watch the night sky beside a wood-burning fireplace.
Top Stay: Port Cunnington Lodge
19. Bon Echo Provincial Park
Best For: Canoeing, hiking, and scenic cliffs
An underrated gem for nature lovers—paddle past Indigenous pictographs or hike the Mazinaw Rock Trail for panoramic views.
Top Stay: Nearby cottage rentals or glamping sites
20. Niagara-on-the-Lake
Best For: Romance, wine, and charming inns
This historic town is one of the best romantic getaways in Ontario. With its elegant restaurants, boutique inns, and vineyard views, it’s the perfect place to unwind with your special someone.
This town in Ontario is packed with culture, from post-1812 war buildings like Old Fort York and Laura Secord’s house to world-class theater productions at the Shaw Festival. If you want a romantic getaway, book this wine tasting tours and a relaxing hotel for you and your significant other. In the winter, don’t miss visiting the Cie-Wine Festival.
Plan your trip to Niagara-on-the-Lake.
Getting There: Niagara-on-the-Lake is 20 minutes from Niagara Falls, an hour’s drive from Hamilton and an hour and a half from Toronto.
21. Idlewyld Inn and Spa
Idlewyld Inn and Spa is the number one destination for an elegant getaway in Western Ontario. Located in London, Ontario, Idelwyld Inn and Spa is set in a classic mansion.
The property features a full-service spa, onsite restaurant, courtyard garden, and stained glass windows throughout. It is perfect for anyone wanting an inspiring property for a relaxing city break. Get ready to step back in time.
Plan Your Trip to Idlewyld Inn and Spa
Apart from its facilities, Idlewyld Inn and Spa also offers an all-inclusive package with a complimentary breakfast. And located in the heart of London, it is a deluxe base for a city break. See more details here.
22. Ste. Anne’s Spa
Best For: Pampering, pools, and spa getaways
This all-inclusive spa resort in Grafton is the perfect place to relax and indulge. Breakfast in bed, outdoor hot tubs, and soothing treatments await.
Top Stay: Ste. Anne’s Spa
23. Sauble Beach
Sauble Beach is a fantastic destination. The tiny beach community on the shores of Lake Huron is famous for its calm, shallow waters are perfect for younger children to learn to swim and older children to hone their water skills.
Plan Your Trip to Sauble Beach
Sauble Beach is just under a three-hour drive from Toronto.
Best accommodation option in Sauble Beach – It’s a tough call, but Sauble Beach’s best accommodation is Bel-Air Motel & Cottages.
23. Manitoulin Island
As the world’s largest freshwater island, Manitoulin Island offers an array of activities, from exploring the stunning Bridal Veil Falls to hiking the Cup and Saucer Trail, which boasts some of the most spectacular views in Ontario.
Visit the charming villages of Little Current and Kagawong and immerse yourself in local culture at the Ojibwe Cultural Foundation.
Plan Your Trip to Manitoulin Island
Getting There: Manitoulin is 6 hours from Toronto. It is a 4-hour scenic drive from Sudbury or a ferry ride from Tobermory aboard the MS Chi-Cheemaun, adding to the adventure. Read: Best Things to do in Manitoulin Island
What are the best romantic getaways in Ontario?
Some of the best romantic getaways in Ontario include Niagara-on-the-Lake for its vineyard views and charming inns, the Elora Mill Hotel & Spa for luxury with a view of Elora Gorge, and Muskoka for its cozy lakeside lodges with wood-burning fireplaces. These destinations are perfect for couples looking to relax, unwind, and reconnect.
Where can I go for a luxury spa weekend in Ontario?
Top luxury spa weekend destinations in Ontario include Ste. Anne’s Spa in Grafton, Elora Mill Hotel & Spa, and Scandinave Spa at Blue Mountain. These resorts offer pampering amenities like hot pools, massages, gourmet dining, and serene settings for the ultimate weekend of indulgence.
What are some affordable weekend trips from Toronto?
Affordable weekend getaways from Toronto include Paris, Ontario for river tubing and boutique stays, Prince Edward County for wine and beach vibes, and St. Jacobs for local food and artisan shopping. All are within a 2–3 hour drive and offer unique experiences without breaking the bank.
Is Muskoka worth visiting in winter?
Absolutely. Muskoka in winter transforms into a cozy wonderland ideal for snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and relaxing by a roaring fire in a lakeside lodge. Many resorts offer seasonal packages that include outdoor activities, spa treatments, and candlelit dining.
Tips
- Book early for popular summer and winter resorts
- Check for packages that include breakfast, spa access, or dinner
- Plan around local events and seasonal outdoor activities
Whether you’re looking to explore the outdoors, pamper yourself at a luxury resort, or share a romantic dinner beside a roaring fire, Ontario offers the ultimate mix of destinations. So pack a bag, grab your special someone or your closest friends, and plan your next escape today
