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Hidden Gems: 10 Lesser-Known Day Trips in Ontario for Every Season

Hidden Gems: 10 Lesser-Known Day Trips in Ontario for Every Season

Oct 29, 2024

Hidden Gems: 10 Lesser-Known Day Trips in Ontario for Every Season
Hidden Gems: 10 Lesser-Known Day Trips in Ontario for Every Season

Editor's Desk

If you’re in Ontario and looking to escape the busy city life, there are plenty of unique, lesser-known destinations for a refreshing day trip. From secluded beaches to scenic trails and charming small towns, Ontario is filled with hidden gems that offer a memorable experience in every season. Here’s a guide to ten incredible day trips for each season—perfect for Ontario residents and visitors alike.

1. Rockwood Conservation Area – Guelph-Eramosa

Best Season to Visit: Spring
Highlights: Limestone caves, glacial potholes, scenic trails

Located just outside Guelph, Rockwood Conservation Area is a treasure for outdoor enthusiasts. Known for its dramatic limestone cliffs, clear lakes, and unique glacial potholes, it’s a great spot for spring hikes and kayaking. The Rockwood Ruins are perfect for photography enthusiasts, adding an element of history to the natural beauty.

2. Cheltenham Badlands – Caledon

Best Season to Visit: Spring or Fall
Highlights: Rare, Martian-like landscape, scenic viewing platform

The Cheltenham Badlands is one of Ontario’s geological marvels. Its unique red, rolling hills are both mesmerizing and rare in North America. Open for viewing in the warmer months, this spot is particularly stunning in spring and fall when you can combine the red hills with surrounding greenery or fall foliage.

3. Elora Gorge – Elora

Best Season to Visit: Summer
Highlights: Tubing, limestone cliffs, charming town

Elora Gorge is the ideal spot for a summer adventure. With opportunities for tubing down the Grand River or hiking along the limestone cliffs, this conservation area provides a thrilling outdoor escape. The nearby village of Elora offers quaint cafes, boutique shops, and the historic Elora Mill for those seeking a relaxing afternoon.

4. Sandbanks Provincial Park – Prince Edward County

Best Season to Visit: Summer
Highlights: Sandy beaches, warm waters, sand dunes

One of Ontario’s best-kept secrets, Sandbanks Provincial Park boasts some of the province’s most pristine beaches. Known for its soft sand and gentle waves, this park is an ideal summer getaway. Explore the park’s sand dunes, go for a swim, or simply relax on the beach. Don’t miss a wine tour in nearby Prince Edward County.

5. Thousand Islands – Gananoque

Best Season to Visit: Summer
Highlights: Boat tours, historic castles, water activities

For those interested in a scenic river escape, Thousand Islands is a hidden gem. Located along the St. Lawrence River, you can take a boat cruise to explore historic castles, picturesque lighthouses, and untouched islands. This area is also a paradise for kayaking, fishing, and diving enthusiasts in the summer months.

6. Mono Cliffs Provincial Park – Mono

Best Season to Visit: Fall
Highlights: Cliffside trails, fall foliage, hidden caves

Just a short drive from Toronto, Mono Cliffs Provincial Park is a perfect fall destination. Known for its stunning foliage and cliffside trails, it’s a hiker’s dream. The park’s caves, boardwalks, and dense forests create a peaceful setting for anyone looking to enjoy the fall colors in Ontario.

7. Awenda Provincial Park – Tiny

Best Season to Visit: Fall
Highlights: Hardwood forests, tranquil beaches, scenic lookouts

Awenda Provincial Park offers some of Ontario’s most beautiful fall foliage. Located along Georgian Bay, it’s known for its quiet beaches, lush hardwood forests, and breathtaking lookouts. You can enjoy canoeing, hiking, and bird-watching—making it an excellent choice for an autumn day trip.

8. Arrowhead Provincial Park – Huntsville

Best Season to Visit: Winter
Highlights: Ice skating trail, winter hikes, snowshoeing

Arrowhead Provincial Park in Huntsville transforms into a winter wonderland each year, featuring the famous Ice Skating Trail—a 1.3 km loop through snow-covered trees. It’s a magical experience, especially at night when it’s lit by torches. Snowshoeing and cross-country skiing are also popular activities here.

9. Bruce Peninsula National Park – Tobermory

Best Season to Visit: Winter or Early Spring
Highlights: Snow-covered cliffs, frozen grotto, solitude

While the Bruce Peninsula National Park is popular in the summer, visiting in winter offers a totally different experience. The park’s famous grotto, cliffs, and scenic trails are enchanting when covered in snow, and it’s far less crowded in winter. This is an ideal trip for winter hikers and photographers seeking quiet natural beauty.

10. Niagara-on-the-Lake – Niagara Region

Best Season to Visit: Year-round
Highlights: Historic town, vineyards, seasonal festivals

For a year-round hidden gem, head to Niagara-on-the-Lake. This historic town is home to charming wineries, local theaters, and seasonal events like the Icewine Festival in winter. Its cobblestone streets and colonial architecture make it an idyllic spot to wander any time of the year.

Tips for Planning Your Ontario Day Trips

  1. Check Seasonal Hours: Some parks and attractions have seasonal hours, so be sure to check ahead.

  2. Dress for the Weather: Ontario’s weather can change quickly, so it’s wise to dress in layers.

  3. Pack Essentials: Bring snacks, water, and a fully charged phone for GPS and photos.

  4. Respect Nature: Ontario’s parks and trails are beautiful, so help keep them that way by respecting nature and carrying out all trash.

Ontario is full of hidden gems, and with so many lesser-known spots to explore, each day trip can feel like a new adventure. Whether you’re seeking sandy beaches, icy trails, or vibrant autumn foliage, these day trips offer something special for every season.

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Welcome to Look Ontario, your comprehensive guide to discovering the best that Ontario has to offer! Whether you’re a resident looking for local businesses or a visitor seeking tourist attractions, our website is designed to be your go-to source for everything Ontario. From the bustling streets of Toronto to the picturesque shores of Lake Huron, Look Ontario connects you with local treasures across the province, showcasing the rich diversity and vibrant culture that make Ontario a must-visit destination.

Discover Ontario’s Vibrant Cities and Charming Towns

Ontario is a province that offers something for everyone, whether you’re exploring its dynamic cities or charming small towns. Look Ontario makes it easy to find what you’re looking for, with a user-friendly directory of local business listings and tourist attractions across the province.

Toronto, the capital of Ontario, is the perfect place to start your journey. Known for its towering skyline, world-class restaurants, and cultural attractions, Toronto is a hub of activity. From the iconic CN Tower to the vibrant Distillery District, our listings highlight everything from the best coffee shops in Kensington Market to top-rated hotels near Harbourfront. Whether you're searching for fine dining, trendy boutiques, or a local plumber, you’ll find Toronto's top businesses right here on Look Ontario.

Head west of Toronto, and you’ll find yourself in Mississauga, a city that offers a blend of suburban comfort and urban excitement. With businesses spanning from the Square One Shopping Centre to the beautiful waterfront parks along Lake Ontario, Mississauga is a great place to explore. Look Ontario features everything from family-friendly restaurants in Port Credit to local contractors for your home improvement needs.

Just a short drive away is Brampton, one of the fastest-growing cities in Ontario. Known for its diverse population and thriving local economy, Brampton offers a wide range of business listings, including salons, fitness centers, and ethnic restaurants that reflect the city’s multicultural fabric. Whether you're searching for a new favorite restaurant or a trusted local service, our Brampton business listings will help you discover the best of the city.

If you venture further west, you'll reach Hamilton, a city that has experienced a cultural renaissance in recent years. Famous for its vibrant arts scene and numerous waterfalls, Hamilton is a great destination for both locals and tourists. Look Ontario’s Hamilton listings cover everything from the best brunch spots in Locke Street Village to hiking trails in Dundas Valley. And with a strong focus on local businesses, you’ll find plenty of options for dining, shopping, and professional services in downtown Hamilton.

For those seeking natural beauty, head north to Muskoka, Ontario’s cottage country. Muskoka is known for its pristine lakes, luxurious cottages, and year-round recreational activities. Look Ontario showcases the best places to stay, including luxury resorts, bed and breakfasts, and cozy cottages available for rent. Looking to rent a boat for a day on Lake Muskoka? Or maybe you're interested in visiting the charming shops in Bracebridge or Huntsville? Our business listings cover it all, so you can enjoy everything Muskoka has to offer.

Explore Ontario’s Hidden Gems

While Ontario’s major cities are popular destinations, the province’s small towns and rural communities offer hidden gems waiting to be discovered. Look Ontario is committed to helping you uncover the lesser-known attractions and businesses that make Ontario special.

Take a trip to Prince Edward County, a picturesque area famous for its wineries and scenic beaches. If you're a wine enthusiast, Look Ontario has an extensive listing of the best wineries in the region, such as Sandbanks Estate Wineryand Norman Hardie Winery. You’ll also find quaint bed and breakfasts, artisan shops, and top-rated restaurants like The Drake Devonshire.

If you’re more into history and culture, consider a visit to Stratford, home of the renowned Stratford Festival, one of the world’s greatest classical theater festivals. In addition to showcasing local attractions like the Avon Theatre, Look Ontario offers a directory of local businesses, including charming cafes and bookstores, as well as accommodations perfect for theater lovers visiting this iconic town.

Looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life? Head to Collingwood, a town located at the base of the Blue Mountains. Known for its year-round outdoor activities, Collingwood is a favorite destination for skiing, hiking, and relaxing by the water. On Look Ontario, you’ll find listings for top ski resorts, local guides for outdoor adventures, and charming cafes in downtown Collingwood. Whether you're looking for a winter getaway or a summer escape, Collingwood has something for everyone.

For those who want to experience Ontario’s French-Canadian culture, Ottawa is the place to go. As the nation's capital, Ottawa boasts stunning historic landmarks like Parliament Hill, the Rideau Canal, and the National Gallery of Canada. Our Ottawa section features business listings that range from boutique hotels in ByWard Market to cozy cafes in Glebe. Whether you’re planning a trip to visit the museums or searching for the best local bakeries, Look Ontario has all the information you need.

Don’t miss out on the Niagara Region, home to the world-famous Niagara Falls and the charming town of Niagara-on-the-Lake. Look Ontario offers listings for attractions like Journey Behind the Falls and Niagara Parks Butterfly Conservatory. You’ll also find recommendations for wineries along the Niagara Wine Route, making it easy to plan your perfect day trip or romantic getaway.

Supporting Local Businesses Across Ontario

In addition to helping tourists discover Ontario’s many attractions, Look Ontario is dedicated to supporting local businesses throughout the province. Whether you’re searching for a reliable contractor in Guelph, a pet grooming service in London, or a yoga studio in Kingston, our business directory covers it all.

Local businesses are the backbone of Ontario’s economy, and we’re proud to provide a platform where they can connect with customers. Look Ontario allows business owners to create detailed profiles that showcase their services, hours of operation, and customer reviews. From flower shops in Windsor to auto repair services in Thunder Bay, we’re here to help you find the best businesses wherever you are in Ontario.

Plan Your Perfect Ontario Adventure with Look Ontario

Whether you’re a lifelong Ontario resident or a first-time visitor, Look Ontario is the ultimate resource for discovering the province’s local businesses and tourist attractions. From the urban energy of Toronto to the peaceful lakes of Muskoka, our website helps you navigate Ontario’s vast offerings with ease.

Explore the vibrant communities of Kitchener-Waterloo, St. Catharines, Sudbury, Peterborough, and Burlington. Find hidden gems in places like Perth, Cobourg, and Tobermory. Wherever your journey takes you, Look Ontario is here to guide the way, helping you support local businesses and experience the best attractions Ontario has to offer.

So why wait? Start planning your Ontario adventure today by visiting Look Ontario, your one-stop shop for everything Ontario!

Get started with
Look Ontario today 👋

Welcome to Look Ontario, your comprehensive guide to discovering the best that Ontario has to offer! Whether you’re a resident looking for local businesses or a visitor seeking tourist attractions, our website is designed to be your go-to source for everything Ontario. From the bustling streets of Toronto to the picturesque shores of Lake Huron, Look Ontario connects you with local treasures across the province, showcasing the rich diversity and vibrant culture that make Ontario a must-visit destination.

Discover Ontario’s Vibrant Cities and Charming Towns

Ontario is a province that offers something for everyone, whether you’re exploring its dynamic cities or charming small towns. Look Ontario makes it easy to find what you’re looking for, with a user-friendly directory of local business listings and tourist attractions across the province.

Toronto, the capital of Ontario, is the perfect place to start your journey. Known for its towering skyline, world-class restaurants, and cultural attractions, Toronto is a hub of activity. From the iconic CN Tower to the vibrant Distillery District, our listings highlight everything from the best coffee shops in Kensington Market to top-rated hotels near Harbourfront. Whether you're searching for fine dining, trendy boutiques, or a local plumber, you’ll find Toronto's top businesses right here on Look Ontario.

Head west of Toronto, and you’ll find yourself in Mississauga, a city that offers a blend of suburban comfort and urban excitement. With businesses spanning from the Square One Shopping Centre to the beautiful waterfront parks along Lake Ontario, Mississauga is a great place to explore. Look Ontario features everything from family-friendly restaurants in Port Credit to local contractors for your home improvement needs.

Just a short drive away is Brampton, one of the fastest-growing cities in Ontario. Known for its diverse population and thriving local economy, Brampton offers a wide range of business listings, including salons, fitness centers, and ethnic restaurants that reflect the city’s multicultural fabric. Whether you're searching for a new favorite restaurant or a trusted local service, our Brampton business listings will help you discover the best of the city.

If you venture further west, you'll reach Hamilton, a city that has experienced a cultural renaissance in recent years. Famous for its vibrant arts scene and numerous waterfalls, Hamilton is a great destination for both locals and tourists. Look Ontario’s Hamilton listings cover everything from the best brunch spots in Locke Street Village to hiking trails in Dundas Valley. And with a strong focus on local businesses, you’ll find plenty of options for dining, shopping, and professional services in downtown Hamilton.

For those seeking natural beauty, head north to Muskoka, Ontario’s cottage country. Muskoka is known for its pristine lakes, luxurious cottages, and year-round recreational activities. Look Ontario showcases the best places to stay, including luxury resorts, bed and breakfasts, and cozy cottages available for rent. Looking to rent a boat for a day on Lake Muskoka? Or maybe you're interested in visiting the charming shops in Bracebridge or Huntsville? Our business listings cover it all, so you can enjoy everything Muskoka has to offer.

Explore Ontario’s Hidden Gems

While Ontario’s major cities are popular destinations, the province’s small towns and rural communities offer hidden gems waiting to be discovered. Look Ontario is committed to helping you uncover the lesser-known attractions and businesses that make Ontario special.

Take a trip to Prince Edward County, a picturesque area famous for its wineries and scenic beaches. If you're a wine enthusiast, Look Ontario has an extensive listing of the best wineries in the region, such as Sandbanks Estate Wineryand Norman Hardie Winery. You’ll also find quaint bed and breakfasts, artisan shops, and top-rated restaurants like The Drake Devonshire.

If you’re more into history and culture, consider a visit to Stratford, home of the renowned Stratford Festival, one of the world’s greatest classical theater festivals. In addition to showcasing local attractions like the Avon Theatre, Look Ontario offers a directory of local businesses, including charming cafes and bookstores, as well as accommodations perfect for theater lovers visiting this iconic town.

Looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life? Head to Collingwood, a town located at the base of the Blue Mountains. Known for its year-round outdoor activities, Collingwood is a favorite destination for skiing, hiking, and relaxing by the water. On Look Ontario, you’ll find listings for top ski resorts, local guides for outdoor adventures, and charming cafes in downtown Collingwood. Whether you're looking for a winter getaway or a summer escape, Collingwood has something for everyone.

For those who want to experience Ontario’s French-Canadian culture, Ottawa is the place to go. As the nation's capital, Ottawa boasts stunning historic landmarks like Parliament Hill, the Rideau Canal, and the National Gallery of Canada. Our Ottawa section features business listings that range from boutique hotels in ByWard Market to cozy cafes in Glebe. Whether you’re planning a trip to visit the museums or searching for the best local bakeries, Look Ontario has all the information you need.

Don’t miss out on the Niagara Region, home to the world-famous Niagara Falls and the charming town of Niagara-on-the-Lake. Look Ontario offers listings for attractions like Journey Behind the Falls and Niagara Parks Butterfly Conservatory. You’ll also find recommendations for wineries along the Niagara Wine Route, making it easy to plan your perfect day trip or romantic getaway.

Supporting Local Businesses Across Ontario

In addition to helping tourists discover Ontario’s many attractions, Look Ontario is dedicated to supporting local businesses throughout the province. Whether you’re searching for a reliable contractor in Guelph, a pet grooming service in London, or a yoga studio in Kingston, our business directory covers it all.

Local businesses are the backbone of Ontario’s economy, and we’re proud to provide a platform where they can connect with customers. Look Ontario allows business owners to create detailed profiles that showcase their services, hours of operation, and customer reviews. From flower shops in Windsor to auto repair services in Thunder Bay, we’re here to help you find the best businesses wherever you are in Ontario.

Plan Your Perfect Ontario Adventure with Look Ontario

Whether you’re a lifelong Ontario resident or a first-time visitor, Look Ontario is the ultimate resource for discovering the province’s local businesses and tourist attractions. From the urban energy of Toronto to the peaceful lakes of Muskoka, our website helps you navigate Ontario’s vast offerings with ease.

Explore the vibrant communities of Kitchener-Waterloo, St. Catharines, Sudbury, Peterborough, and Burlington. Find hidden gems in places like Perth, Cobourg, and Tobermory. Wherever your journey takes you, Look Ontario is here to guide the way, helping you support local businesses and experience the best attractions Ontario has to offer.

So why wait? Start planning your Ontario adventure today by visiting Look Ontario, your one-stop shop for everything Ontario!

Get started with
Look Ontario today 👋

Welcome to Look Ontario, your comprehensive guide to discovering the best that Ontario has to offer! Whether you’re a resident looking for local businesses or a visitor seeking tourist attractions, our website is designed to be your go-to source for everything Ontario. From the bustling streets of Toronto to the picturesque shores of Lake Huron, Look Ontario connects you with local treasures across the province, showcasing the rich diversity and vibrant culture that make Ontario a must-visit destination.

Discover Ontario’s Vibrant Cities and Charming Towns

Ontario is a province that offers something for everyone, whether you’re exploring its dynamic cities or charming small towns. Look Ontario makes it easy to find what you’re looking for, with a user-friendly directory of local business listings and tourist attractions across the province.

Toronto, the capital of Ontario, is the perfect place to start your journey. Known for its towering skyline, world-class restaurants, and cultural attractions, Toronto is a hub of activity. From the iconic CN Tower to the vibrant Distillery District, our listings highlight everything from the best coffee shops in Kensington Market to top-rated hotels near Harbourfront. Whether you're searching for fine dining, trendy boutiques, or a local plumber, you’ll find Toronto's top businesses right here on Look Ontario.

Head west of Toronto, and you’ll find yourself in Mississauga, a city that offers a blend of suburban comfort and urban excitement. With businesses spanning from the Square One Shopping Centre to the beautiful waterfront parks along Lake Ontario, Mississauga is a great place to explore. Look Ontario features everything from family-friendly restaurants in Port Credit to local contractors for your home improvement needs.

Just a short drive away is Brampton, one of the fastest-growing cities in Ontario. Known for its diverse population and thriving local economy, Brampton offers a wide range of business listings, including salons, fitness centers, and ethnic restaurants that reflect the city’s multicultural fabric. Whether you're searching for a new favorite restaurant or a trusted local service, our Brampton business listings will help you discover the best of the city.

If you venture further west, you'll reach Hamilton, a city that has experienced a cultural renaissance in recent years. Famous for its vibrant arts scene and numerous waterfalls, Hamilton is a great destination for both locals and tourists. Look Ontario’s Hamilton listings cover everything from the best brunch spots in Locke Street Village to hiking trails in Dundas Valley. And with a strong focus on local businesses, you’ll find plenty of options for dining, shopping, and professional services in downtown Hamilton.

For those seeking natural beauty, head north to Muskoka, Ontario’s cottage country. Muskoka is known for its pristine lakes, luxurious cottages, and year-round recreational activities. Look Ontario showcases the best places to stay, including luxury resorts, bed and breakfasts, and cozy cottages available for rent. Looking to rent a boat for a day on Lake Muskoka? Or maybe you're interested in visiting the charming shops in Bracebridge or Huntsville? Our business listings cover it all, so you can enjoy everything Muskoka has to offer.

Explore Ontario’s Hidden Gems

While Ontario’s major cities are popular destinations, the province’s small towns and rural communities offer hidden gems waiting to be discovered. Look Ontario is committed to helping you uncover the lesser-known attractions and businesses that make Ontario special.

Take a trip to Prince Edward County, a picturesque area famous for its wineries and scenic beaches. If you're a wine enthusiast, Look Ontario has an extensive listing of the best wineries in the region, such as Sandbanks Estate Wineryand Norman Hardie Winery. You’ll also find quaint bed and breakfasts, artisan shops, and top-rated restaurants like The Drake Devonshire.

If you’re more into history and culture, consider a visit to Stratford, home of the renowned Stratford Festival, one of the world’s greatest classical theater festivals. In addition to showcasing local attractions like the Avon Theatre, Look Ontario offers a directory of local businesses, including charming cafes and bookstores, as well as accommodations perfect for theater lovers visiting this iconic town.

Looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life? Head to Collingwood, a town located at the base of the Blue Mountains. Known for its year-round outdoor activities, Collingwood is a favorite destination for skiing, hiking, and relaxing by the water. On Look Ontario, you’ll find listings for top ski resorts, local guides for outdoor adventures, and charming cafes in downtown Collingwood. Whether you're looking for a winter getaway or a summer escape, Collingwood has something for everyone.

For those who want to experience Ontario’s French-Canadian culture, Ottawa is the place to go. As the nation's capital, Ottawa boasts stunning historic landmarks like Parliament Hill, the Rideau Canal, and the National Gallery of Canada. Our Ottawa section features business listings that range from boutique hotels in ByWard Market to cozy cafes in Glebe. Whether you’re planning a trip to visit the museums or searching for the best local bakeries, Look Ontario has all the information you need.

Don’t miss out on the Niagara Region, home to the world-famous Niagara Falls and the charming town of Niagara-on-the-Lake. Look Ontario offers listings for attractions like Journey Behind the Falls and Niagara Parks Butterfly Conservatory. You’ll also find recommendations for wineries along the Niagara Wine Route, making it easy to plan your perfect day trip or romantic getaway.

Supporting Local Businesses Across Ontario

In addition to helping tourists discover Ontario’s many attractions, Look Ontario is dedicated to supporting local businesses throughout the province. Whether you’re searching for a reliable contractor in Guelph, a pet grooming service in London, or a yoga studio in Kingston, our business directory covers it all.

Local businesses are the backbone of Ontario’s economy, and we’re proud to provide a platform where they can connect with customers. Look Ontario allows business owners to create detailed profiles that showcase their services, hours of operation, and customer reviews. From flower shops in Windsor to auto repair services in Thunder Bay, we’re here to help you find the best businesses wherever you are in Ontario.

Plan Your Perfect Ontario Adventure with Look Ontario

Whether you’re a lifelong Ontario resident or a first-time visitor, Look Ontario is the ultimate resource for discovering the province’s local businesses and tourist attractions. From the urban energy of Toronto to the peaceful lakes of Muskoka, our website helps you navigate Ontario’s vast offerings with ease.

Explore the vibrant communities of Kitchener-Waterloo, St. Catharines, Sudbury, Peterborough, and Burlington. Find hidden gems in places like Perth, Cobourg, and Tobermory. Wherever your journey takes you, Look Ontario is here to guide the way, helping you support local businesses and experience the best attractions Ontario has to offer.

So why wait? Start planning your Ontario adventure today by visiting Look Ontario, your one-stop shop for everything Ontario!