{"id":427492,"date":"2024-08-13T20:17:42","date_gmt":"2024-08-13T18:17:42","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/pvtistes.net\/en\/?p=427492"},"modified":"2025-09-26T13:39:50","modified_gmt":"2025-09-26T11:39:50","slug":"15-weekend-trips-toronto","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/pvtistes.net\/en\/15-weekend-trips-toronto\/","title":{"rendered":"15 of the best weekend trips from Toronto"},"content":{"rendered":"<p>Toronto is perfectly located for exploring the East Coast of both Canada and the US. We\u2019ve got you covered for ideas, whether you want a summer escape into nature or a magical Christmas city break; road trip or accessible by public transport; high-end or budget. No matter where you choose for your next weekend trip out of Toronto, you\u2019ll be spoilt for choice after reading our article!<\/p>\n<p>Click the buttons to navigate to:<\/p>\n\n            <div id=\"infos-navigation\" class=\"c-tag--navigation\">\n        <a class=\"c-tag c-tag--red u-a2 u-fw-500\" href=\"#infos-ON\" data-scroll>Ontario\u2019s national and provincial parks<br \/><\/a><a class=\"c-tag c-tag--red u-a2 u-fw-500\" href=\"#infos-QU\" data-scroll>Exploring more of Ontario and Qu\u00e9bec<br \/><\/a><a class=\"c-tag c-tag--red u-a2 u-fw-500\" href=\"#infos-road\" data-scroll>Road trips to the US<br \/><\/a><a class=\"c-tag c-tag--red u-a2 u-fw-500\" href=\"#infos-US\" data-scroll>Exploring more of the US<br \/><\/a>\n            <\/div>\n        \n\n\t\t\t<div class=\"c-dossier-article__info\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"c-dossier-article__info-wrap\">\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t<div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\nPrefer to rent a car for your weekend getaway? Pvtistes has a special deal with <a href=\"https:\/\/pvtistes.net\/en\/bonsplans\/hertz-thrifty-dollar-discounts-canada-usa\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Hertz, Thrifty and Dollar<\/a> for up to 20% off your rental car booking.<br \/>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\n<h2 id=\"infos-ON\">Ontario\u2019s national and provincial parks<\/h2>\n<p>Although they might not be as well known as those on the Canadian West Coast, Ontario\u2019s national and provincial parks still have lots of epic nature and scenery to offer. Here are some of the best ones in the province.<\/p>\n<h3>Algonquin Provincial Park<\/h3>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone wp-image-427500 size-large\" src=\"https:\/\/pvtistes.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/shutterstock_787749040-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"Algonquin - weekend trips from Toronto\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" srcset=\"https:\/\/pvtistes.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/shutterstock_787749040-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/pvtistes.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/shutterstock_787749040-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/pvtistes.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/shutterstock_787749040-768x512.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/p>\n<p><strong>Time to get there (driving):<\/strong><br \/>\n3.5 hours<\/p>\n<p><strong>Accessible by public transport?<\/strong><br \/>\nYou can book a return with <a href=\"https:\/\/www.parkbus.ca\/algonquin\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Parkbus<\/a> for approx. CA$150. Choose from their list of pick-up and drop-off locations (they do not accept requests for stops outside of this list).<\/p>\n<p><strong>What to do there:<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>In the warmer months, Algonquin is popular for hiking, fishing and kayaking.<\/li>\n<li>Between mid-September to mid-October, watch the leaves change into their fall colours.<\/li>\n<li>In winter, Algonquin becomes a haven for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. There are also <a href=\"https:\/\/www.algonquinpark.on.ca\/visit\/recreational_activites\/dog-sledding.php\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">dog sledding trails<\/a>\u2014although the park itself does not organise tours, several third-party companies provide dog sledding day trips and longer weekend mushes.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><strong>Top tips:<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Remember to pay for your <a href=\"https:\/\/www.algonquinpark.on.ca\/visit\/general_park_info\/fees-algonquin-park.php\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">park pass fee<\/a>, both for day use and overnight camping.<\/li>\n<li>You can <a href=\"https:\/\/www.algonquinpark.on.ca\/visit\/services\/advertisers-map-and-database.php\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">rent<\/a> camping equipment and all the gear you need for exploring (canoes, kayaks, paddleboards, etc.), so don\u2019t worry about carrying heavy equipment on the Parkbus.<\/li>\n<li>No matter the season, bring clothes for every weather possibility; it can be cold and rainy year-round. Remember your bug spray during the summer, as there are lots of mosquitoes.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3>Bruce Peninsula National Park<\/h3>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone wp-image-427501 size-large\" src=\"https:\/\/pvtistes.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/shutterstock_625396850-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"Bruce Peninsula - weekend trips from Toronto\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" srcset=\"https:\/\/pvtistes.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/shutterstock_625396850-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/pvtistes.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/shutterstock_625396850-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/pvtistes.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/shutterstock_625396850-768x512.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/p>\n<p><strong>Time to get there (driving):<\/strong><br \/>\n4 hours<\/p>\n<p><strong>Accessible by public transport?<\/strong><br \/>\nYou can book a return with <a href=\"https:\/\/www.parkbus.ca\/bruce\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Parkbus<\/a> for approx. CA$150. Note that once you are there, public transport options are limited, so you may struggle to get around the park without access to a car.<\/p>\n<p><strong>What to do there:<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>The most popular spot in Bruce Peninsula National Park is <a href=\"https:\/\/parks.canada.ca\/pn-np\/on\/bruce\/activ\/emplacements-locations\/parking\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">the Grotto<\/a>. Spend 45-60 minutes (one-way) hiking to see this famous cave, set amongst the clear blue waters of Georgian Bay. In the warmer months, you can even go for a swim\u2014but you\u2019ll have to be mindful of the time during peak season, as you can only hold a parking pass for four hours (more on this below\u2026).<\/li>\n<li>Stop by Tobermory, the quaint harbour town located at the northern peak of the peninsula.<\/li>\n<li>Explore the shipwrecks of Fathom Five National Marine Park with a glass-bottom boat tour\u2014combine with a stop at <a href=\"https:\/\/parks.canada.ca\/amnc-nmca\/on\/fathomfive\/activ\/flowerpot\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Flowerpot Island<\/a> to hike to the iconic Flowerpots\u2014or scuba diving.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><strong>Top tips:<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>You must hold a park pass to visit both Bruce Peninsula and Fathom Five National Marine Park. These are included on the <a href=\"https:\/\/parks.canada.ca\/voyage-travel\/admission\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Discovery Pass<\/a>, so if you plan to visit some of the other national parks around Canada, you can save money on an annual pass.<\/li>\n<li>Outside of the winter months, you have to book parking for the Grotto (and also for the other popular parking areas like Halfway Log Dump and Lion\u2019s Head) in advance. These can sell out months in advance, so secure your <a href=\"https:\/\/reservation.pc.gc.ca\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">reservation<\/a> as soon as you know your trip dates.<\/li>\n<li>Consider going in winter for lower crowds, but be aware that some of the main attractions (e.g. the Flowerpot Island boat cruise) won\u2019t be operating.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3>Killarney Provincial Park<\/h3>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone wp-image-427502 size-large\" src=\"https:\/\/pvtistes.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/shutterstock_216651325-1024x678.jpg\" alt=\"Killarney - weekend trips from Toronto\" width=\"1024\" height=\"678\" srcset=\"https:\/\/pvtistes.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/shutterstock_216651325-1024x678.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/pvtistes.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/shutterstock_216651325-300x199.jpg 300w, https:\/\/pvtistes.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/shutterstock_216651325-768x509.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/p>\n<p><strong>Time to get there (driving):<\/strong><br \/>\n4-5 hours<\/p>\n<p><strong>Accessible by public transport?<\/strong><br \/>\nYou can book a return with <a href=\"https:\/\/www.parkbus.ca\/killarney\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Parkbus<\/a> for approx. CA$275. Note that there is no public transport to explore the park once you\u2019ve arrived. Parkbus recommends bringing a bike so that you have a way of getting around after being dropped off.<\/p>\n<p><strong>What to do there:<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Similar to Algonquin Provincial Park, people flock to Killarney Provincial Park to hike, fish, canoe and kayak.<\/li>\n<li>The park keeps a spring and summer Loon count and a Christmas bird count, perfect for avid bird watchers.<\/li>\n<li>The town of Killarney is home to famed <a href=\"https:\/\/herbertfisheries.ca\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Herbert Fisheries<\/a>\u2019 fish and chips.<\/li>\n<li>Swim in one of the many lakes, or at one of the two beaches located in the George Lake campground.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><strong>Top tips:<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Make sure you have checked the difficulty level of any hikes before setting off, as some <a href=\"https:\/\/www.ontarioparks.ca\/park\/killarney\/activities\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">routes<\/a> are only suitable for experienced hikers.<\/li>\n<li>The park currently warns that, due to their popularity, The Crack and Chikanishing hikes require campsite visitors to secure a valid permit upon check-in. Staff will issue the day permit for the hikes at no additional charge.<\/li>\n<li>Parkbus have started offering front country campsite reservations, as well as transportation. You will still need to <a href=\"https:\/\/reservations.ontarioparks.ca\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">book your own campsite<\/a> if you want to camp in the backcountry.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n    <div class=\"c-tag--back-summary\">\n        <a href=\"#infos-navigation\" class=\"c-arrow-link u-uppercase u-b3 u-fw-700\" data-scroll data-offset=\"90\">\n            Back to Summary<svg class=\"rd-icon rd-icon-arrow-right\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewBox=\"0 0 8 8\">\n    <path fill-rule=\"evenodd\" d=\"M0 3.509v.982h6.082L3.298 7.298 4 8l4-4-4-4-.702.702 2.784 2.807z\"><\/path>\n<\/svg>\n \n        <\/a>\n    <\/div>\n    \n<h2 id=\"infos-QU\">Exploring more of Ontario and Qu\u00e9bec<\/h2>\n<p>You won\u2019t have any shortage of places to visit in Ontario. If you feel like going further afield, check out Ontario\u2019s neighbouring province, Qu\u00e9bec.<\/p>\n<h3>Elora<\/h3>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone wp-image-427527 size-large\" src=\"https:\/\/pvtistes.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/vinay-s-u9goboauoje-unsplash-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"Elora - weekend trips from Toronto\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" srcset=\"https:\/\/pvtistes.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/vinay-s-u9goboauoje-unsplash-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/pvtistes.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/vinay-s-u9goboauoje-unsplash-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/pvtistes.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/vinay-s-u9goboauoje-unsplash-768x512.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><br \/>\n<em>Known for its gorge, and considered one of Ontario\u2019s most beautiful small towns.<\/em><\/p>\n<p><strong>Time to get there (driving):<\/strong><br \/>\n1.5 hours<\/p>\n<p><strong>Accessible by public transport?<\/strong><br \/>\nYou can book a return with <a href=\"https:\/\/www.parkbus.ca\/elora\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Parkbus<\/a> for approx. CA$65.<\/p>\n<p><strong>What to do there:<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Elora Gorge Conservation Area is usually the first stop on anyone\u2019s itinerary for a weekend away in Elora. Between June and September, tubing is one of the most popular ways of exploring the gorge\u2014it must be <a href=\"https:\/\/tickets.grandriver.ca\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">booked online<\/a> in advance.<\/li>\n<li>Elora Gorge Lookout offers free views of the gorge, and it\u2019s only a five-minute walk from Victoria Park.<\/li>\n<li>In the summer, Elora Quarry is popular with swimmers\u2014so popular, in fact, that entrance to the quarry must also be <a href=\"https:\/\/tickets.grandriver.ca\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">reserved<\/a> in advance now.<\/li>\n<li>If you\u2019re more interested in the downtown area, you can spend time exploring the boutique shops. In the summer, you can easily get around using the free <a href=\"https:\/\/www.centrewellington.ca\/explore-cw\/downtown-shuttle-program\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Downtown Shuttle<\/a>.<\/li>\n<li>Splash out on a riverside dinner, cocktail or even a full <a href=\"https:\/\/eloramill.ca\/spa-day-packages\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">spa day<\/a> at Elora Mill and Spa.<\/li>\n<li>Time your visit to coincide with one of Elora\u2019s vibrant festivals, such as Elora Festival (in July), Riverfest or the Scottish Festival (both in August), or Monster Month (in October).<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><strong>Top tips:<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>If you\u2019re taking the Parkbus, make sure you first get dropped off at the Gorge. This way, your park admission will be included in the price of the bus ticket! You can then walk to the town of Elora in about 30 minutes.<\/li>\n<li>If you want to avoid the busy summer crowds, the next best time to visit Elora is in December. Elora comes alive for Christmas, with Starlight Shopping downtown, a Santa Claus parade, carol singers and more.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3>Muskoka<\/h3>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone wp-image-427504 size-large\" src=\"https:\/\/pvtistes.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/shutterstock_2448510393-1024x483.jpg\" alt=\"Muskoka - weekend trips from Toronto\" width=\"1024\" height=\"483\" srcset=\"https:\/\/pvtistes.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/shutterstock_2448510393-1024x483.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/pvtistes.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/shutterstock_2448510393-300x142.jpg 300w, https:\/\/pvtistes.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/shutterstock_2448510393-768x362.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><br \/>\n<em>Ontario\u2019s popular cottage country.<\/em><\/p>\n<p><strong>Time to get there (driving):<\/strong><br \/>\n3 hours<\/p>\n<p><strong>Accessible by public transport?<\/strong><br \/>\nYou can take the <a href=\"https:\/\/ontarionorthland.ca\/en\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">bus<\/a> from Toronto to Gravenhurst, considered one of the gateways to the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.discovermuskoka.ca\/destinations\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">region of Muskoka<\/a>, for approx. CA$100 return. The bus will drop you off within the town of Gravenhurst, so you may be limited as to how much of cottage country you can explore without a car.<\/p>\n<p><strong>What to do there:<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>The district of Muskoka is known as Ontario\u2019s cottage country. People come to relax on the lakefronts and beaches, walk the scenic trails and explore the different islands by boat.<\/li>\n<li>Stargaze in the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.torrancebarrens.com\/stargaze\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Torrance Barrens<\/a> dark-sky preserve\u2014if you\u2019re lucky, you might even see the northern lights!<\/li>\n<li>Visit one of the many <a href=\"https:\/\/www.discovermuskoka.ca\/chasing-waterfalls-in-muskoka\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">waterfalls<\/a> in the area.<\/li>\n<li>Thrill seekers can <a href=\"https:\/\/www.aerialpark.ca\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">zipline<\/a> through the trees or take a <a href=\"https:\/\/treetoptrekking.com\/parks\/huntsville\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">canopy tour<\/a>.<\/li>\n<li>Foodies should check out the <a href=\"https:\/\/cranberry.ca\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Muskoka Lakes Farm and Winery<\/a> or some of the stops along the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.muskokamaple.com\/maple-trail\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">maple trail<\/a>.<\/li>\n<li>In winter, you can go ice skating, cross-country skiing or <a href=\"https:\/\/gnoac.com\/winter-fat-biking\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">fat biking<\/a> (off-road bikes that can withstand snowy terrain).<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><strong>Top tips:<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Muskoka refers to the entire <a href=\"https:\/\/www.gbtownship.ca\/en\/living-here\/resources\/Documents\/RegionalMap_District_8x11.pdf\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">region<\/a> between Georgian Bay and the edge of Algonquin Provincial Park, so you will want to pick your location carefully, especially if you\u2019re travelling without a car.<\/li>\n<li>As with just about everywhere in Ontario, cottage country is an extremely popular summer destination with locals and tourists alike; accommodation and activities book up fast. Make your reservations well in advance or prepare to go outside of peak season. Consider travelling in fall when the leaves are changing colour, or spring when the wildflowers are blooming. You\u2019ll have a great time in Muskoka, regardless of the season!<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3>Prince Edward County<\/h3>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone wp-image-427506 size-large\" src=\"https:\/\/pvtistes.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/patricia-jekki-bvj3rjtyoqo-unsplash-1024x613.jpg\" alt=\"Prince Edward County - weekend trips from Toronto\" width=\"1024\" height=\"613\" srcset=\"https:\/\/pvtistes.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/patricia-jekki-bvj3rjtyoqo-unsplash-1024x613.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/pvtistes.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/patricia-jekki-bvj3rjtyoqo-unsplash-300x180.jpg 300w, https:\/\/pvtistes.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/patricia-jekki-bvj3rjtyoqo-unsplash-768x460.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><br \/>\n<em>Known for its wineries and beaches.<\/em><\/p>\n<p><strong>Time to get there (driving):<\/strong><br \/>\n2.5 hours<\/p>\n<p><strong>Accessible by public transport?<\/strong><br \/>\nYou can take the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.flixbus.ca\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">bus<\/a> (around CA$40-$50 return) or <a href=\"https:\/\/www.viarail.ca\/en\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">train<\/a> (around CA$60-$70 return) to Belleville, but you would need to use a taxi or <a href=\"https:\/\/www.uride.co\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">rideshare service<\/a> to get around The County from there.<\/p>\n<p><strong>What to do there:<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Prince Edward County (known as The County or PEC to locals) has grown in popularity with Torontonians looking to leave city life behind for a relaxed, wine-fuelled weekend away. For those who don\u2019t drink <a href=\"https:\/\/visitthecounty.com\/wine-in-the-county\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">wine<\/a>, there are also a number of <a href=\"https:\/\/visitthecounty.com\/breweries-cideries-distilleries\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">breweries and distilleries<\/a> you can visit.<\/li>\n<li>Bring a picnic and spend the day at the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.ontarioparks.ca\/park\/sandbanks\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">beach<\/a> overlooking Lake Ontario.<\/li>\n<li>If you\u2019re visiting during March, don\u2019t miss the annual <a href=\"https:\/\/visitthecounty.com\/maple-county\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">sugar shack celebrations<\/a>, where Sugar Bushes across The County open their doors for a weekend dedicated to Canada\u2019s staple: maple syrup.<\/li>\n<li>Did you know The County has a thriving arts scene? Follow the Arts Trail to discover local artists, or check out one of the <a href=\"https:\/\/visitthecounty.com\/arts-culture\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">galleries<\/a>.<\/li>\n<li>For a unique experience, head to Tanglewood Farm to take part in <a href=\"https:\/\/visitthecounty.com\/listing\/goat-yoga-mikenze\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">goat yoga<\/a>!<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><strong>Top tips:<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Remember not to drink and drive. Many people bring bikes and cycle between wineries. If you don\u2019t have a bike, consider booking one of the licensed <a href=\"https:\/\/visitthecounty.com\/tour-operators\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">tour operators<\/a> who can safely drive you between wineries, or nominate a designated driver!<\/li>\n<li>The official tourism website for The County regularly updates its <a href=\"https:\/\/visitthecounty.com\/things-to-do?tab=events\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">events calendar<\/a>. Make sure you check the dates of your trip so you don&#8217;t miss out on any special events happening during your stay.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3>Niagara<\/h3>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone wp-image-332601 size-large\" src=\"https:\/\/pvtistes.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/09\/chutes-du-niagara-canada-1024x409.jpg\" alt=\"Chutes du Niagara Canada - weekend trips from Toronto\" width=\"1024\" height=\"409\" srcset=\"https:\/\/pvtistes.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/09\/chutes-du-niagara-canada-1024x409.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/pvtistes.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/09\/chutes-du-niagara-canada-300x120.jpg 300w, https:\/\/pvtistes.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/09\/chutes-du-niagara-canada-768x307.jpg 768w, https:\/\/pvtistes.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/09\/chutes-du-niagara-canada-800x320.jpg 800w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><br \/>\n<em>Famous for its falls and wineries.<\/em><\/p>\n<p><strong>Time to get there (driving):<\/strong><br \/>\n2 hours<\/p>\n<p><strong>Accessible by public transport?<\/strong><br \/>\nYou can take the train or bus (around CA$40-$50 return)\u2014both options are summarised on the Niagara tourism <a href=\"https:\/\/www.visitniagaracanada.com\/plan\/getting-here\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">website<\/a>. Once there, you can use the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.niagaraparks.com\/visit-niagara-parks\/plan-your-visit\/getting-around\/wego-niagara-falls-bus\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">shuttles<\/a> during peak season to travel between the falls and Niagara-on-the-Lake. <\/p>\n<p>Depending on the type of Niagara Falls tickets you purchase, the WEGO shuttle may be included for no extra charge!<\/p>\n<p><strong>What to do there:<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>We recommend spending one day at the actual <a href=\"https:\/\/www.niagarafallstourism.com\/play\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Niagara Falls<\/a> and the second day exploring the nearby town of <a href=\"https:\/\/www.niagarafallstourism.com\/niagara-region\/niagara-on-the-lake\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Niagara-on-the-Lake<\/a>.<\/li>\n<li>There are numerous ways to experience the falls. As well as the famous boat tour, you can zipline or aero car across the falls, run an obstacle course over the top of Niagara Gorge, walk on a boardwalk alongside the Gorge, or an observation deck behind the falls. Find all the options on the tourism <a href=\"https:\/\/www.niagarafallstourism.com\/play\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">website<\/a>.<\/li>\n<li>Niagara Falls (the Canadian side) is comparable to a mini Las Vegas. If you want the full experience, you can hit up the casinos, ride the funfair-style attractions, or party in one of the many bars and nightclubs.<\/li>\n<li>Niagara-on-the-Lake is known for its old-town charm, so take a stroll through the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.visitniagaracanada.com\/do\/niagara-on-the-lake-heritage-district\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Heritage District<\/a> before heading out into Wine Country for some <a href=\"https:\/\/www.niagaraonthelake.com\/wineries\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">wine tasting<\/a>.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><strong>Top tips:<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>If you\u2019re going all-in on the Niagara Falls attractions, consider <a href=\"https:\/\/www.niagarafallstourism.com\/attraction-packages\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">bundling your tickets<\/a> to save some money.<\/li>\n<li>If you want to experience more nature and less of the \u201cVegas\u201d strip, consider crossing the border to view the falls from the US side, where there is a <a href=\"https:\/\/www.niagarafallsstatepark.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">state park<\/a> instead of all the tourist attractions.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3>Ottawa<\/h3>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone wp-image-403139 size-large\" src=\"https:\/\/pvtistes.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/ottawa-1024x576.jpg\" alt=\"Ottawa - weekend trips from Toronto\" width=\"1024\" height=\"576\" srcset=\"https:\/\/pvtistes.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/ottawa-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/pvtistes.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/ottawa-300x169.jpg 300w, https:\/\/pvtistes.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/ottawa-768x432.jpg 768w, https:\/\/pvtistes.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/ottawa.jpg 1800w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><br \/>\n<em>The capital of Canada!<\/em><\/p>\n<p><strong>Time to get there (driving):<\/strong><br \/>\n5 hours<\/p>\n<p><strong>Accessible by public transport?<\/strong><br \/>\nYou can book a return with <a href=\"https:\/\/www.viarail.ca\/en\/explore-our-destinations\/trains\/ontario-and-quebec\/toronto-ottawa\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Viarail<\/a> for an average of CA$200. Prices change based on the dates you select.<\/p>\n<p><strong>What to do there:<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Take a <a href=\"https:\/\/visit.parl.ca\/sites\/Visit\/default\/en_CA\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">free tour<\/a> of Canada\u2019s parliament at Parliament Hill.<\/li>\n<li>Eat and drink your way around Ottawa\u2019s main market, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.byward-market.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">ByWard Market<\/a>.<\/li>\n<li>Marvel at the beautiful architecture of Ottawa\u2019s <a href=\"https:\/\/notredameottawa.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Notre Dame Cathedral<\/a>.<\/li>\n<li>If you\u2019re visiting during May, don\u2019t miss the popular Tulip Festival that attracts visitors from around the world.<\/li>\n<li>Walk along the UNESCO World Heritage Site Rideau Canal\u2014or ice skate down it during winter!<\/li>\n<li>Visit one or several of Ottawa\u2019s museums\u2014you can combine entries with an <a href=\"https:\/\/visitottawapasses.ca\/museums\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Ottawa museums pass<\/a>. If you prefer art, Ottawa Art Gallery has free entry.<\/li>\n<li>Ottawa is one of the best places in the world for white water rafting.<\/li>\n<li>Those looking for some greenery close to the city should check out Gatineau Park\u2014you can catch a <a href=\"https:\/\/ncc-ccn.gc.ca\/places\/getting-to-gatineau-park\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">free shuttle<\/a> to get around during peak season.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><strong>Top tips:<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>For more detailed information, from tourist tips to what daily life and culture is like in Ottawa, read our complete <a href=\"https:\/\/pvtistes.net\/en\/dossiers\/ottawa\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">guide to everything you need to know about Ottawa<\/a>!<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3>Montr\u00e9al (Qu\u00e9bec)<\/h3>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone wp-image-338856 size-large\" src=\"https:\/\/pvtistes.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/11\/montreal-claire-infirmiere-pvt-1024x730.jpg\" alt=\"Montr\u00e9al Claire infirmi\u00e8re PVT \/ Montreal - weekend trips from toronto\" width=\"1024\" height=\"730\" srcset=\"https:\/\/pvtistes.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/11\/montreal-claire-infirmiere-pvt-1024x730.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/pvtistes.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/11\/montreal-claire-infirmiere-pvt-300x214.jpg 300w, https:\/\/pvtistes.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/11\/montreal-claire-infirmiere-pvt-768x547.jpg 768w, https:\/\/pvtistes.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/11\/montreal-claire-infirmiere-pvt-800x570.jpg 800w, https:\/\/pvtistes.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/11\/montreal-claire-infirmiere-pvt.jpg 1688w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><br \/>\n<em>Qu\u00e9bec\u2019s largest city.<\/em><\/p>\n<p><strong>Time to get there:<\/strong><br \/>\n6 hours (driving) or 1 hour 15 minutes (flight)<\/p>\n<p><strong>Accessible by public transport?<\/strong><br \/>\nThe <a href=\"https:\/\/www.viarail.ca\/en\/explore-our-destinations\/trains\/ontario-and-quebec\/toronto-montreal\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">train<\/a> takes five and a half hours and has an average cost of CA$225 for a return ticket; prices vary based on dates. The <a href=\"https:\/\/ca.megabus.com\/route-guides\/toronto-to-montreal-bus\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">bus<\/a> takes six hours but is cheaper at an average cost of CA$150.<\/p>\n<p><strong>What to do there:<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Head to the highest point in Montr\u00e9al, Mount Royal, for panoramic views of the city and year-round events like <a href=\"https:\/\/www.mtl.org\/en\/what-to-do\/festivals-and-events\/les-tam-tams-du-mont-royal\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Sunday tam-tams<\/a> (a gathering of dancers and drummers), or snowshoeing tours, snow tubing, and ice skating on Beaver Lake in the winter.<\/li>\n<li>Lose yourself in the designer shops and boutiques on <a href=\"https:\/\/www.mtl.org\/fr\/quoi-faire\/shopping\/rue-sainte-catherine\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Rue Sainte-Catherine<\/a>, one of the main shopping areas in Montr\u00e9al.<\/li>\n<li>Tour Vieux-Montr\u00e9al, the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.mtl.org\/en\/city\/about-montreal\/neighbourhoods\/old-montreal\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Old Town<\/a>, where you will find impressive architecture such as the Notre-Dame Basilica of Montr\u00e9al and the City Hall.<\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.mtl.org\/en\/city\/about-montreal\/neighbourhoods\/old-montreal\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Jean-Talon market<\/a> is one of the biggest and oldest public markets in North America. And don\u2019t forget to try poutine, the province of Qu\u00e9bec\u2019s famous contribution to Canadian cuisine!<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><strong>Top tips:<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>For a budget-friendly weekend away, read our ideas for <a href=\"https:\/\/pvtistes.net\/en\/10-free-activities-montreal\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">10 free things to do in Montr\u00e9al<\/a>.<\/li>\n<li>For more tips on all things Montr\u00e9al, including <a href=\"https:\/\/pvtistes.net\/en\/dossiers\/live-work-montreal\/4\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">how to get around<\/a> and the <a href=\"https:\/\/pvtistes.net\/en\/dossiers\/live-work-montreal\/10\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">general culture<\/a>, read <a href=\"https:\/\/pvtistes.net\/en\/dossiers\/live-work-montreal\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">everything you need to know about Montr\u00e9al<\/a>.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n    <div class=\"c-tag--back-summary\">\n        <a href=\"#infos-navigation\" class=\"c-arrow-link u-uppercase u-b3 u-fw-700\" data-scroll data-offset=\"90\">\n            Back to Summary<svg class=\"rd-icon rd-icon-arrow-right\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewBox=\"0 0 8 8\">\n    <path fill-rule=\"evenodd\" d=\"M0 3.509v.982h6.082L3.298 7.298 4 8l4-4-4-4-.702.702 2.784 2.807z\"><\/path>\n<\/svg>\n \n        <\/a>\n    <\/div>\n    \n<h2 id=\"infos-road\">Road trips to the US<\/h2>\n<p>Make the most of Ontario\u2019s proximity to the border with a road trip to one of Toronto\u2019s nearby American neighbours.<\/p>\n\n\t\t\t<div class=\"c-dossier-article__info\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"c-dossier-article__info-wrap\">\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t<div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\nIf you want to travel to the US from Canada, be sure to check if your citizenship needs to apply for a <a href=\"https:\/\/pvtistes.net\/en\/entering-the-us-as-tourist\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">visa or ESTA<\/a>. <\/p>\n<p>This is relevant even if you are currently living in Canada on an <a href=\"https:\/\/pvtistes.net\/en\/whv\/canada\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">IEC work or study permit<\/a>.<br \/>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\n<h3>Detroit, Michigan<\/h3>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone wp-image-427511 size-large\" src=\"https:\/\/pvtistes.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/detroit-4401493_1280-1024x682.jpg\" alt=\"detroit-weekend trips from toronto\" width=\"1024\" height=\"682\" srcset=\"https:\/\/pvtistes.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/detroit-4401493_1280-1024x682.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/pvtistes.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/detroit-4401493_1280-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/pvtistes.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/detroit-4401493_1280-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/pvtistes.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/detroit-4401493_1280.jpg 1280w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/p>\n<p><strong>Time to get there (driving):<\/strong><br \/>\n4 hours<\/p>\n<p><strong>Accessible by public transport?<\/strong><br \/>\nYou can book a return with <a href=\"https:\/\/www.flixbus.ca\/bus-routes\/toronto-on-detroit-mi\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Flixbus<\/a> for approx. CA$120.<\/p>\n<p><strong>What to do there:<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Stand in the very room where the genre of Motown was invented at the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.motownmuseum.org\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Motown Museum<\/a>.<\/li>\n<li>Rosa Parks\u2019 bus, John F. Kennedy\u2019s presidential car, Oscar Mayer&#8217;s Wienermobile\u2026 these historical vehicles and more are housed within <a href=\"https:\/\/www.thehenryford.org\/visit\/henry-ford-museum\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">The Henry Ford Museum<\/a>. You can make it a day trip by combining your ticket with a Ford factory tour, or go back in time to old America at Greenfield Village (think Toronto\u2019s Black Creek Pioneer Village but bigger).<\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.belleisleconservancy.org\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Belle Isle Park<\/a> is home to a free aquarium, nature centre, conservatory, museum, and lots of spots to pull up by the lakeside for fishing, barbecues or views of Detroit and the Canadian border. Note that you will have to pay for a recreational day pass if you drive onto the island, but crossing on foot, bike or by public transport is free.<\/li>\n<li>One of the largest art collections in the US can be found at the <a href=\"https:\/\/dia.org\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Detroit Institute of Arts<\/a>.<\/li>\n<li>Sports fanatics shouldn\u2019t miss a game (or guided tour!) at one of Detroit&#8217;s famous stadiums, like <a href=\"https:\/\/www.mlb.com\/tigers\/ballpark\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Comerica Park<\/a> or the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.313presents.com\/venue\/little-caesars-arena\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Little Caesars Arena<\/a>.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><strong>Top tips:<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>If you\u2019re staying downtown, Detroit has a <a href=\"https:\/\/www.thepeoplemover.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">People Mover<\/a> (free to ride, at the time of writing in 2024) that you can use to get around if you don\u2019t have a car.<\/li>\n<li>You may need to take a few rideshare\/taxis, however, as some of the main attractions (e.g. Motown Museum, Henry Ford Museum, etc.) aren\u2019t located in the downtown area.<\/li>\n<li>Detroit has turned itself around in recent years and is really no less safe than downtown Toronto. However, it pays to be sensible and practise general common sense, e.g. don\u2019t leave valuables out in the open, be careful where you go at night, etc.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3>Buffalo, New York<\/h3>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone wp-image-427514 size-large\" src=\"https:\/\/pvtistes.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/manx-aiy_7uc_s0e-unsplash-1024x768.jpg\" alt=\"Buffalo - weekend trips from Toronto\" width=\"1024\" height=\"768\" srcset=\"https:\/\/pvtistes.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/manx-aiy_7uc_s0e-unsplash-1024x768.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/pvtistes.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/manx-aiy_7uc_s0e-unsplash-300x225.jpg 300w, https:\/\/pvtistes.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/manx-aiy_7uc_s0e-unsplash-768x576.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/p>\n<p><strong>Time to get there (driving):<\/strong><br \/>\n2 hours 45 minutes<\/p>\n<p><strong>Accessible by public transport?<\/strong><br \/>\nYou can book a return with <a href=\"https:\/\/www.flixbus.com\/bus-routes\/bus-toronto-on-buffalo-ny\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Flixbus<\/a> for as little as CA$40.<\/p>\n<p><strong>What to do there:<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Buffalo is a popular location for people to stay when visiting the US side of Niagara Falls\u2014it\u2019s only a 30-minute drive from the falls. It\u2019s also 25 minutes away from the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.fashionoutletsniagara.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Fashion Outlets<\/a>; many Torontonians like to cross the border just for the discounted shopping.<\/li>\n<li>Admire the art deco style of Buffalo City Hall, then head up to the observation deck on the 25th floor for views of Lake Erie, the Buffalo River and the city.<\/li>\n<li>Catch a Buffalo Bills game at <a href=\"https:\/\/www.buffalobills.com\/stadium\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Highmark Stadium<\/a>.<\/li>\n<li>Sail Lake Erie on a <a href=\"https:\/\/spiritofbuffalo.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">sunset cruise<\/a>.<\/li>\n<li>The <a href=\"https:\/\/buffalozoo.org\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Buffalo Zoo<\/a> is one of the oldest zoos in the US.<\/li>\n<li>You can\u2019t come to Buffalo without trying its namesake chicken wings\u2014follow the Buffalo wing <a href=\"https:\/\/www.visitbuffaloniagara.com\/crawl\/buffalo-wing-trail\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">trail<\/a> to find the best wings in the city!<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><strong>Top tips:<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Be warned that Buffalo gets bitterly cold in winter\u2014it\u2019s on the Canadian border, after all. Spring and fall see better weather and more affordable prices than visiting in the busy summer season.<\/li>\n<li>The public transport system isn\u2019t the best, so you\u2019ll either want to rent a car, take rideshares or book onto a tour to make the most of your weekend there.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n    <div class=\"c-tag--back-summary\">\n        <a href=\"#infos-navigation\" class=\"c-arrow-link u-uppercase u-b3 u-fw-700\" data-scroll data-offset=\"90\">\n            Back to Summary<svg class=\"rd-icon rd-icon-arrow-right\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewBox=\"0 0 8 8\">\n    <path fill-rule=\"evenodd\" d=\"M0 3.509v.982h6.082L3.298 7.298 4 8l4-4-4-4-.702.702 2.784 2.807z\"><\/path>\n<\/svg>\n \n        <\/a>\n    <\/div>\n    \n<h2 id=\"infos-US\">Exploring more of the US<\/h2>\n<p>Although these US cities are a longer drive away, they are achievable as a weekend getaway destination with short flight times from Toronto, and a lot you can pack into two or three days.<\/p>\n\n\t\t\t<div class=\"c-dossier-article__info\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"c-dossier-article__info-wrap\">\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t<div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\nRemember to get travel insurance for your trip. Flight cancellations, lost luggage, unexpected illness&#8230; you never know when something might go wrong, so make sure you\u2019re fully covered. <\/p>\n<p>We\u2019ve been recommending <a href=\"https:\/\/pvtistes.net\/en\/whv-insurance\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Globe WHV<\/a> insurance since 2005.<br \/>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\n<h3>New York City<\/h3>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone wp-image-427521 size-large\" src=\"https:\/\/pvtistes.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/shutterstock_178040375-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"New York - weekend trips from Toronto\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" srcset=\"https:\/\/pvtistes.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/shutterstock_178040375-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/pvtistes.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/shutterstock_178040375-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/pvtistes.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/shutterstock_178040375-768x512.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/p>\n<p><strong>Time to get there:<\/strong><br \/>\n9 hours (driving) or 1 hour 35 minutes (flight)<\/p>\n<p><strong>Accessible by public transport?<\/strong><br \/>\nYou can take the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.flixbus.ca\/bus-routes\/toronto-on-new-york-ny\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">bus<\/a> or <a href=\"https:\/\/www.amtrak.com\/maple-leaf-train\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">train<\/a>, but both options take around 12 hours so aren\u2019t really suitable for a quick weekend away. Flights outside of peak season (summer and Christmas\/New Year\u2019s) cost around the same price (CA$250-$300), so you aren\u2019t making much of a saving by taking the slow route.<\/p>\n<p><strong>What to do there:<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Use the <a href=\"https:\/\/siferry.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Staten Island Ferry<\/a> to get close to the Statue of Liberty (without needing to pay!).<\/li>\n<li>Walk the Brooklyn Bridge\u2014the earlier, the better to avoid the crowds.<\/li>\n<li>Don\u2019t miss <a href=\"https:\/\/www.centralparknyc.org\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Central Park<\/a> and the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.thehighline.org\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">High Line<\/a>, some of the best places to find peace within the city that never sleeps.<\/li>\n<li>Choose one of the many observatories for your skyline views\u2014although the Empire State Building is most famous, we recommend <a href=\"https:\/\/www.rockefellercenter.com\/attractions\/top-of-the-rock-observation-deck\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Top of the Rock<\/a> if you want the Empire State to feature in your pictures. One World Observatory at the World Trade Centre is another popular choice.<\/li>\n<li>Get discounted tickets for Broadway at the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.tdf.org\/discount-ticket-programs\/tkts-by-tdf\/tkts-live\/?tab=TimesSquare#TimesSquare-map\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">TKTS<\/a> Times Square booth (or just look online!).<\/li>\n<li>Try the famous New York cheesecake at <a href=\"https:\/\/www.juniorscheesecake.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Junior\u2019s<\/a>.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\t\t\t<div class=\"c-dossier-article__info\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"c-dossier-article__info-wrap\">\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t<div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\tRead <a href=\"https:\/\/pvtistes.net\/en\/stories\/eastern-canada-new-york-trip\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Living in Canada? Don\u2019t miss a trip to New York City!<\/a> for more inspiration for your NY weekend getaway.\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\n<p><strong>Top tips:<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>To find more affordable accommodation, consider staying outside of Manhattan. Locations like Hoboken or New Jersey are cheaper, yet still easy to get into the heart of the city with <a href=\"https:\/\/new.mta.info\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">public transport<\/a> or rideshare services.<\/li>\n<li>This is one city where a hop-on, hop-off bus tour might be useful as a way of finding your bearings. Guides will also give advice, such as which tourist hotspots for food are really worth it versus which ones to avoid!<\/li>\n<li>Bring comfy walking shoes. You\u2019re guaranteed to walk a lot during your weekend away.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3>Chicago, Illinois<\/h3>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone wp-image-427516 size-large\" src=\"https:\/\/pvtistes.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/sawyer-bengtson-tnv84lojes4-unsplash-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"Chicago - weekend trips from Toronto\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" srcset=\"https:\/\/pvtistes.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/sawyer-bengtson-tnv84lojes4-unsplash-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/pvtistes.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/sawyer-bengtson-tnv84lojes4-unsplash-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/pvtistes.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/sawyer-bengtson-tnv84lojes4-unsplash-768x512.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/p>\n<p><strong>Time to get there:<\/strong><br \/>\n9 hours (driving) or 2 hours (flight)<\/p>\n<p><strong>Accessible by public transport?<\/strong><br \/>\nYou can take the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.flixbus.ca\/bus-routes\/toronto-on-chicago-il\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">bus<\/a>, but it will take 14 hours. You can secure return flights for around CA$350, compared to CA$200 for the long bus route.<\/p>\n<p><strong>What to do there:<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Learn about Chicago\u2019s unique architecture on the <a href=\"https:\/\/architecturetourchicago.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">River Boat Architecture Tour<\/a>\u2014or take a <a href=\"https:\/\/www.chicagowatertaxi.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">water taxi<\/a> for a cheaper version of the same views (minus the commentary).<\/li>\n<li>You haven&#8217;t really been to Chicago if you&#8217;ve not seen The Bean (aka Cloud Gate) located in Millennium Park.<\/li>\n<li>The <a href=\"https:\/\/www.lpzoo.org\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Lincoln Park Zoo<\/a> and botanic garden are free to visit.<\/li>\n<li>Check out some of the many museums, including the Museum of Science and Industry (<a href=\"https:\/\/www.msichicago.org\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">MOSI<\/a>), <a href=\"https:\/\/www.artic.edu\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">The Art Institute of Chicago<\/a> and the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.fieldmuseum.org\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Field Museum<\/a> (natural history).<\/li>\n<li>Taste test <a href=\"https:\/\/giordanos.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Giordano\u2019s<\/a> and <a href=\"https:\/\/www.loumalnatis.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Lou Malnati\u2019s<\/a> to decide which is the best Chicago deep dish pizza.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><strong>Top tips:<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>It\u2019s not called The Windy City for no reason. Come prepared for cold and blustery weather, regardless of the season.<\/li>\n<li>The <a href=\"https:\/\/www.transitchicago.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">CTA<\/a>, Chicago\u2019s public transport system, is an easy one to navigate, so you can avoid renting a car. You can buy 1-day unlimited use passes for just US$5.<\/li>\n<li>Although many cities have a CityPASS option, some are better value for money than others. Chicago\u2019s <a href=\"https:\/\/www.citypass.com\/chicago\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">pass<\/a> contains a lot of popular attractions, like the architecture boat tours, the Field Museum and MOSI, so this one might be worth your money.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3>Boston, Massachusetts<\/h3>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone wp-image-427523 size-large\" src=\"https:\/\/pvtistes.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/boston-1608846_1280-1024x577.jpg\" alt=\"boston- weekend trips from Toronto\" width=\"1024\" height=\"577\" srcset=\"https:\/\/pvtistes.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/boston-1608846_1280-1024x577.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/pvtistes.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/boston-1608846_1280-300x169.jpg 300w, https:\/\/pvtistes.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/boston-1608846_1280-768x433.jpg 768w, https:\/\/pvtistes.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/boston-1608846_1280.jpg 1280w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/p>\n<p><strong>Time to get there:<\/strong><br \/>\n10 hours (driving) or 1 hour 40 minutes (flight)<\/p>\n<p><strong>Accessible by public transport?<\/strong><br \/>\nYou can take the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.flixbus.ca\/bus-routes\/toronto-on-boston-ma\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">bus<\/a>, but it will take 17 hours. It costs about CA$300 for the bus, but you can find return flights for as little as CA$350\u2026 It\u2019s not worth the CA$50 saving for the longer route!<\/p>\n<p><strong>What to do there:<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Learn about the US\u2019 fight for independence on the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.thefreedomtrail.org\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Freedom Trail<\/a>.<\/li>\n<li>Immerse yourself in history and throw your own tea into the harbour at the Boston Tea Party <a href=\"https:\/\/www.bostonteapartyship.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">museum<\/a>.<\/li>\n<li>Discover the dark side of Boston\u2019s famous burying grounds on a Ghosts and Graveyards <a href=\"https:\/\/www.ghostsandgravestones.com\/boston\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">tour<\/a>.<\/li>\n<li>Grab a bite to eat from the famous <a href=\"https:\/\/faneuilhallmarketplace.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Faneuil Hall Marketplace<\/a>.<\/li>\n<li>Try the iconic cannolis of the North End\u2014will you be a <a href=\"https:\/\/www.mikespastry.com\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Mike\u2019s<\/a> or a <a href=\"https:\/\/modernpastry.com\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Modern Pastry<\/a> fan? Remember to bring cash, as they won\u2019t accept credit cards.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><strong>Top tips:<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Boston is a small city, so you can avoid renting a car because it\u2019s easy to get around on foot or the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.mbta.com\/schedules\/subway\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">public transport<\/a> system. You can buy single tickets for US$2.40, a day pass for US$11 or a 7-day pass for US$22.50 (if you\u2019re staying for more than two days and plan to use transport frequently, this works out to be the better deal).<\/li>\n<li>Massachusetts has variable weather, even in summer. Make sure you bring layers.<\/li>\n<li>If you\u2019re already planning on visiting a lot of the tourist attractions included in the Boston <a href=\"https:\/\/www.citypass.com\/boston\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">CityPASS<\/a>, such as the observation deck, aquarium and the Boston Harbor City Cruises, do the maths to see if buying the pass will save you any money.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3>Washington, DC<\/h3>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone wp-image-427524 size-large\" src=\"https:\/\/pvtistes.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/washington-monument-1627184_1280-1024x682.jpg\" alt=\"Washington - weekend trips from Toronto\" width=\"1024\" height=\"682\" srcset=\"https:\/\/pvtistes.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/washington-monument-1627184_1280-1024x682.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/pvtistes.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/washington-monument-1627184_1280-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/pvtistes.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/washington-monument-1627184_1280-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/pvtistes.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/washington-monument-1627184_1280.jpg 1280w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/p>\n<p><strong>Time to get there:<\/strong><br \/>\n10 hours (driving) or 1 hour 35 minutes (flight)<\/p>\n<p><strong>Accessible by public transport?<\/strong><br \/>\nYou can take the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.flixbus.ca\/bus-routes\/toronto-on-washington-dc\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">bus<\/a>, but it will take 17 hours. It costs about CA$325 for the bus and you can find return flights for as little as CA$320, so there is no need to take the long route.<\/p>\n<p><strong>What to do there:<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Walk the stretch of the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nps.gov\/nama\/planyourvisit\/index.htm\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">National Mall<\/a> between the Lincoln Memorial and the World War II Memorial, before climbing to the top of the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nps.gov\/wamo\/index.htm\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Washington Monument<\/a> (paid ticket required for the tower).<\/li>\n<li>The <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nps.gov\/subjects\/cherryblossom\/tidal-basin-loop-trail.htm\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Tidal Basin Loop Trail<\/a> takes you to some more of the most iconic monuments in Washington, including the Martin Luther King Jr., Roosevelt and Jefferson monuments.<\/li>\n<li>When in Washington, you need to pay a visit to <a href=\"https:\/\/www.whitehouse.gov\/visit\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">The White House<\/a>. You can view it from the outside or pre-book onto a free public tour if you want to see inside.<\/li>\n<li>You could spend a weekend alone just in the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.si.edu\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Smithsonian Institution<\/a>, including the National Air and Space Museum, Museum of Natural History, Museum of American History and the National Zoo\u2026 and they\u2019re all free entry!<\/li>\n<li>Explore the world\u2019s largest library, the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.loc.gov\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Library of Congress<\/a>. Free tickets can be booked in advance, or a limited number release same-day (from 9am).<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><strong>Top tips:<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"list-style-type: none\">\n<ul>\n<li>One of the best times to visit Washington is around March-April for the National Cherry Blossom Festival.<\/li>\n<li>While the Smithsonian museums are free to enter, some do require <a href=\"https:\/\/www.si.edu\/visit\/hours\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">pre-booking<\/a>, so make sure you check the museum(s) you want to visit in advance and book a ticket if required.<\/li>\n<li>The public transport system is easy to use\u2014they\u2019ve even got a <a href=\"https:\/\/www.wmata.com\/rider-guide\/new-riders\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">guide<\/a> for first-timers. You can get a 1-day unlimited pass for US$13.50.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n    <div class=\"c-tag--back-summary\">\n        <a href=\"#infos-navigation\" class=\"c-arrow-link u-uppercase u-b3 u-fw-700\" data-scroll data-offset=\"90\">\n            Back to Summary<svg class=\"rd-icon rd-icon-arrow-right\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewBox=\"0 0 8 8\">\n    <path fill-rule=\"evenodd\" d=\"M0 3.509v.982h6.082L3.298 7.298 4 8l4-4-4-4-.702.702 2.784 2.807z\"><\/path>\n<\/svg>\n \n        <\/a>\n    <\/div>\n    \n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Toronto is perfectly located for exploring the East Coast of both Canada and the US. We\u2019ve got you covered for ideas, whether you want a summer escape into nature or a magical Christmas city break; road trip or accessible by public transport; high-end or budget. No matter where you choose for your next weekend trip [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":458450,"featured_media":427493,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[201,614],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-427492","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-actualite","category-tourisme-en","pays-canada-en"],"acf":[],"comments_count":0,"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/pvtistes.net\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/427492","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/pvtistes.net\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/pvtistes.net\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/pvtistes.net\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/458450"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/pvtistes.net\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=427492"}],"version-history":[{"count":6,"href":"https:\/\/pvtistes.net\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/427492\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":449485,"href":"https:\/\/pvtistes.net\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/427492\/revisions\/449485"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/pvtistes.net\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/427493"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/pvtistes.net\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=427492"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/pvtistes.net\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=427492"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/pvtistes.net\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=427492"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}