Top Day Trips from Toronto (That Don’t Feel Like Tourist Traps)

Andrew Applebaum
Jul 18
4 min read

Taking a Day Trip from Toronto using the Driftscape app

Looking for day trips from Toronto that actually feel like an adventure? Good news: you don’t have to go far to uncover film-famous towns, forested trails, and historic main streets just waiting to be explored—at your own pace. Whether you’re a city local itching for a short escape or a curious traveler eager to go beyond downtown, these self-guided tours offer unforgettable experiences within a couple hours of the GTA.

Here are our top picks for self-guided day trips from Toronto you can explore today (and yes, there’s something for everyone).

Lights, Camera, Oakville – Film Locations Tour (Approx. 40 mins from Toronto)

Theme: Movie magic & scenic shoreline Explore the Oakville Film Tour →

With over 100 productions filmed here in just three years, Oakville has become Hollywood North’s charming sidekick. This tour guides you through eight iconic film and TV locations—including scenes from an Avril Lavigne video. Bonus: you're right by the lake, so pack a picnic and soak in the cinematic shoreline.

Why go? A breezy, star-studded walk perfect for pop culture fans and lakefront lovers alike. Best season: Spring to fall

Bruce County Rewards Tour (Approx. 2.5 hrs from Toronto)

Theme: Nature, stargazing, and small-town charm Explore Bruce County →

Craving wide-open skies and winding trails? Head to Bruce County for everything from riverside lazing to farm-to-table bites. This destination's rewards program makes it even more fun to explore—unlock perks while you wander through villages, forests, and scenic lookouts.

Why go? The perfect unplugged retreat for explorers who want to earn while they roam. Best season: Year-round (with bonus charm in fall foliage season)

Historic Walking Tour in Mississauga (Streetsville) – (Approx. 35 mins from Toronto)

Theme: Heritage architecture & old-world vibes Start the Streetsville Tour →

Known as the "village in the city," Streetsville is the kind of place where cobbled charm meets quiet confidence. This tour takes you past 19th-century mills, well-preserved storefronts, and streetscapes that feel unchanged in the best way.

Why go? For travelers who love stories in stone and walking tours that don’t feel like walking in circles. Best season: Spring to fall

Heritage Trail in Downtown Erin (Approx. 1 hr from Toronto)

Theme: Small-town history meets scenic strolls Tour Erin’s Main Street →

Victorian architecture, trout-filled rivers, and artsy storefronts? Yes please. Erin’s self-guided walking tour winds through charming streets and riverside parks, all steeped in heritage and supported by a local-loving community.

Why go? Ideal for the weekend wanderer who wants to mix fresh air with a dash of historical flair. Best season: Late spring through early fall

Collingwood Downtown Heritage Walk (Approx. 2 hrs from Toronto)

Theme: Shipbuilding history with Georgian Bay views Take the Collingwood Tour →

Explore Ontario’s own "Chicago of the North" with this short but packed tour of Collingwood’s heritage district. From the town’s shipping roots to its gorgeous 1800s architecture, every stop on this walk tells a story.

Why go? For fans of architecture, bay breezes, and easy 20-minute strolls with a big payoff. Best season: Summer and early fall

Six Nations Nature Trail Tour (Approx. 1.5 hrs from Toronto)

Theme: Connection to land, culture, and quiet Wander the Six Nations Trail →

Tucked in the Carolinian Forest, this Indigenous-led trail invites you to unplug completely. No phones, no stress—just the sounds of birds and the rustling trees. It’s a restorative escape that honours the land and invites respectful exploration.

Why go? Because stillness is a destination, too. Best season: Late spring to early fall

North Perth Farm Gate Tour (Approx. 2 hrs from Toronto)

Theme: Local flavours and agri-adventures Start the Farm Gate Tour →

If your ideal day trip includes fresh berries, maple syrup, and feeding alpacas, this is your jam. Visit over a dozen local farms on a self-guided loop through North Perth’s vibrant agri-tourism scene. Just remember to bring a cooler (and cash).

Why go? It’s a choose-your-own agri-adventure with serious snack potential. Best season: Summer through early fall

Day Trip from Toronto Bonus: Toronto Staycation Pick: Evergreen Brick Works (In-town)

Theme: Urban oasis meets community storytelling Explore the Brick Works Tour →

Short on time? Stay in town and dive into this podcast-style audio tour of Evergreen Brick Works. Hear real voices and discover why this former industrial site has become one of Toronto's most beloved public spaces.

Why go? For reflective moments, rich storytelling, and local pride without leaving the city. Best season: Year-round

Know Before You Go: Day Trip Essentials

Drive Time: Check traffic and aim for off-peak hours to maximize your adventure.
Download Tours in Advance: Many destinations are in low-signal zones—download your Driftscape tour before you go.
Dress Smart: Wear comfy shoes and weather-appropriate gear, especially for trails and heritage walks.
Bring Cash: Some rural stops and farm gates operate on a cash-only basis.
Seasonal Access: Double-check open hours and seasonal closures before heading out.
Plan Your Route: Layer in food stops, rest breaks, or bonus photo ops. Make it your own.
Cooler Recommended: Perfect for picking up farm-fresh goods or picnic-ready bites.
Charge Your Phone: You’ll want snaps—and your audio tour may rely on it!
Temperature Ready: Be ready no matter what weather happens. Bring layers, sun protection, umbrellas, hot/warm drinks in a thermos and a few towels!