Trying to strike a balance between your travel dreams and a weak Canadian dollar? Fill the gaps in your bucket list with these unforgettable Ontario road trips, found right in your backyard.
Niagara Falls Travel Ideas
Not just for honeymooners. If you haven’t taken a road trip to Niagara falls for a while, now is the time to revisit this wonder of the world. Niagara falls not only provides breathtaking views that are world class, but wine that is world class as well. With the increased popularity in Ontario wines, local wineries have turned spirit making into a tourism industry. Many of the wineries are close together, making it a perfect scenic road trip for your car. If you’re looking to entertain the whole family, Niagara falls is the place. With several water parks, museums and attractions, including the maid of the mist, there is something for everyone. Of course, if you are a newlywed, Niagara falls is still the honeymoon capital of the world.
Bruce Peninsula
Spending some time on the Bruce Peninsula will have you experiencing a wide variety of firsts. The flower pot islands offer an excellent hiking experience with wondrous views of the “flower pot” caves, rocks pillars and rare plants. Tobermory is part of the Bruce Peninsula and is home to twenty shipwrecks. Tobermory is the scuba diving capital of Canada. You might choose to get a closer look at these wrecks with a memorable dive or enjoy any number of water activities.
Pelee Island
This tiny island may be best known for it’s winery and beaches, but indeed, the southernmost point of Ontario has something to offer everyone. With spectacular hiking trails, it’s a bird watchers heaven. The hour and half ferry ride will take your road trip to the water. It will have you leaving the hectic mainland behind you while you experience breathtaking views upon approach to the island. Pelee Island has it all. Museums, art studios and even a little nightlife. A great family destination right in your backyard. The beautiful views you’ll see on your road trip aren’t too shabby either.
1000 Islands Road Trips
If you have a desire to visit the islands, why not travel to the 1000 islands. Summer and fall are picture perfect seasons to visit this unique south eastern ontario locale. The 1000 islands are conveniently located between Toronto, Ottawa and Montreal and makes a great, manageable road trip for the family. There are a number of cruise boat operators that will take you through the islands where you will enjoy great scenery and a wonderful meal. The waters of the 1000 islands are as blue as the sky. With so much to do, at the end of the day, you will be happy to just relax and enjoy the view as the sun sets over the St. Lawrence river.
St. Jacob’s
St. Jacob’s is a favourite rural destination because of its unique attractions and Mennonite culture. The St. Jacob’s market burned down last year but just like any barn raising, they are back in business this year, bigger and better. Along with the famous market, you’ll find lots to see and do. With so many local artists, there is no shortage of studios and galleries. St. Jacob’s also boasts a theatre and a trip that is,”out of the ordinary, not out of the way.” If culture is what you’re looking for, take a trip through this Mennonite village with all the splendors of yesteryear.
Taking a road trip within Ontario can give you a great getaway just hours away by car, even if only for a few days. When you’ve been geographically blessed to live in the great Province of Ontario, make sure to take the time and experience all it has to offer.