Looking for places to travel in April to escape the city without spending hours behind the wheel? Ontario is full of beautiful destinations that come alive in the springtime—and the best part? Many of them are just a short drive from Toronto. Whether you’re looking for charming towns, waterfalls, wine country, or nature trails, these spring getaways are ideal for a weekend trip or even a day adventure.
We’ve rounded up the most popular and most searched destinations in Ontario under 3 hours from Toronto, complete with travel tips, what to do, and where to book tickets or parking.
1. Niagara-on-the-Lake – 1.5 hours from Toronto
Nestled along the shores of Lake Ontario, Niagara-on-the-Lake is often called the prettiest town in Ontario—and for good reason. Just 1.5 hours from Toronto, it transforms into a floral paradise each spring, with cherry blossoms, wine country tours, and theatre performances drawing in visitors from across the province. Its charming streets, historic architecture, and award-winning vineyards make it one of the top spring destinations in Southern Ontario.
Best for: Wineries, historic charm, and spring blossoms
Why it’s trending: Niagara-on-the-Lake is one of the most beautiful towns in Canada, especially in spring when cherry blossoms bloom and winery patios reopen.
Top Things to Do:
* Wine tasting at Peller Estates or Trius Winery
* Stroll through Queen Street shops and cafés
* Catch a show at the Shaw Festival (spring season opens in April)
* Visit the Niagara Parks Botanical Gardens and butterfly conservatory
Where to Book:
* Shaw Festival Tickets – https://www.shawfest.com/
* Winery Tour & Tasting – https://www.niagaraonthelake.com/play/wineries
Parking Tip: Free and paid parking available in the Old Town. Book your rental car and plan ahead during weekends.
2. Elora & Elora Gorge – 1.5 hours from Toronto
Located just north of Guelph, Elora is a postcard-perfect town with natural wonders and artistic flair. In spring, the Elora Gorge’s limestone cliffs and forested trails burst into colour, making it a haven for hikers, photographers, and couples seeking a scenic escape. With cozy cafés, boutique shops, and a riverside trail system, Elora offers a perfect blend of nature and small-town charm under 2 hours from Toronto.
Best for: Nature hikes, scenic views, quaint town vibes
Why it’s trending: Elora is one of the most photographed towns in Ontario, with its stone buildings, artists’ shops, and the stunning gorge carved by the Grand River.
Top Things to Do:
* Hike the Elora Gorge Conservation Area trails
* Explore Elora Mill and its upscale spa
* Shop and dine in the Elora Village
* Check out Tooth of Time waterfall and lookouts
Where to Book:
Elora Conservation Area Day Pass – https://www.grandriver.ca/en/outdoor-recreation/Elora-Gorge.aspx
Parking Tip: Use the main Elora Gorge lot; downtown parking is limited on weekends. Book your rental car now.
3. Prince Edward County – 2.5 hours from Toronto
Prince Edward County (PEC) has quickly become Ontario’s trendiest travel destination—and spring is the best time to beat the summer rush. About 2.5 hours from Toronto, this laid-back region offers world-class wineries, sandy beaches, and charming villages like Wellington and Bloomfield. The slower spring pace allows visitors to enjoy wine tastings, art galleries, and farm-to-table dining without the crowds.
Best for: Foodies, wine lovers, art seekers
Why it’s trending: This area is booming with spring visitors thanks to its wineries, craft breweries, art studios, and farm-to-table restaurants.
Top Things to Do:
* Visit wineries like Sandbanks Estate or Norman Hardie
* Explore Bloomfield and Wellington for boutique shopping
* Walk or bike the Millennium Trail
* Dine at Drake Devonshire or Flame + Smith
Where to Book:
Prince Edward County Wineries – https://www.visitpec.ca/business_category/wineries/
Restaurants & Reservations – https://www.visitpec.ca/eat/
Parking Tip: Most wineries have free parking. Beach and park access may require a [day-use permit] (https://reservations.ontarioparks.com/).
4. Royal Botanical Gardens (Burlington/Hamilton) – 1 hour from Toronto
Just an hour from Toronto, the Royal Botanical Gardens (RBG) is a must-visit in spring for anyone who loves flowers, wildlife, or peaceful walking trails. As Canada’s largest botanical garden, the RBG features acres of blooming tulips, magnolias, and cherry blossoms from April through June. It’s also a great spot for families, with educational exhibits, accessible paths, and weekend events throughout the season.
Best for: Gardens, cherry blossoms, family-friendly outings
Why it’s trending: A go-to spring destination for floral lovers, the RBG offers seasonal blooms, peaceful trails, and special events from April through June.
Top Things to Do:
* See cherry blossoms and tulips at Laking Garden
* Explore Hendrie Park and its Mediterranean garden
* Take a guided nature walk or check out the kids’ discovery centre
Where to Book:
* RBG Tickets & Bloom Schedule – https://www.rbg.ca/
Parking Tip: Parking is available onsite with admission; arrive early on weekends.
5. Blue Mountain & Collingwood – 2 hours from Toronto
Most famous as a winter ski resort, Blue Mountain and nearby Collingwood offer incredible spring adventures less than 2 hours from Toronto. As the snow melts, this area becomes ideal for hiking, biking, and spa getaways with stunning views of Georgian Bay. Whether you’re exploring Scenic Caves, relaxing at Scandinave Spa, or dining in the village, it’s a fresh-air escape that feels like a full vacation close to home.
Best for: Outdoor adventures, spring festivals, spas
Why it’s trending: Blue Mountain isn’t just for skiing. Spring in the Blue Mountains brings hiking, mountain biking, waterfall hunting, and scenic gondola rides.
Top Things to Do:
* Hike or bike Scenic Caves Nature Adventures
* Relax at Scandinave Spa Blue Mountain
* Enjoy patio dining at Blue Mountain Village
* Check out nearby Eugenia Falls or Wasaga Beach
Where to Book:
* Scandinave Spa Reservations – https://www.scandinave.com/blue-mountain/
* Blue Mountain Resort Activities – https://www.bluemountain.ca/
Parking Tip: Free village parking; gondola and cave sites may require paid lots.
6. Hamilton Waterfalls Tour – 1 hour from Toronto
Dubbed the “City of Waterfalls,” Hamilton is home to more than 100 cascades and is only an hour away from Toronto. Spring is the perfect time to visit, when the waterfalls are at their fullest and forest trails are starting to bloom. From the towering Webster’s Falls to the dramatic Devil’s Punchbowl, Hamilton’s natural beauty and easy access make it a top choice for hikers, families, and weekend explorers.
Best for: Nature lovers, photography, light hiking
Why it’s trending: Known as the “City of Waterfalls,” Hamilton has more than 100 waterfalls within city limits—and spring is the best time to see them in full flow.
Top Waterfalls to Visit:
* Webster’s Falls
* Tew Falls
* Albion Falls
* Devil’s Punchbowl
Where to Book:
* Hamilton Waterfall Guide & Permits – https://conservationhamilton.ca/
Parking Tip: You’ll need a reservation pass to access Dundas Peak and Spencer Gorge areas. [Reserve here] (https://conservationhamilton.ca/spencer-gorge-permit-parking/)
Final Thoughts
These top-rated spring getaways in Ontario offer something for everyone, whether you’re planning a romantic escape, a nature-filled family trip, or a solo adventure. The best part? You don’t have to drive more than 3 hours from Toronto to reach any of them.
Use this guide to plan your perfect spring escape—and don’t forget to book your car rental, event passes, and parking in advance to make the most of your time.
📌 Ready to Hit the Road?
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