Toronto: Day Trips

Algonquin Provincial Park When you’ve had enough of the city, make the three-hour drive to the pristine ponds, hills, and trails that comprise this 2,982-square-mile park. Popular activities include canoeing, hiking and fishing. Algonquin Park Office, 190 miles northeast of Toronto; 705-633-5572; www.algonquinpark.on.ca
family | hiking | outdoors | sports

Fathom Five National Marine Park Located along the Niagara Escarpment, the islands that comprise this marine park are notable for their underwater treasures – hit the park’s museum and then go diving to see resident marine life like crawfish, bass, and sculpin along with the 400-million-year-old dolomite rocks and shipwrecks that are hidden beneath the surface. 183 miles northwest of Toronto; 519-596-2233; www.pc.gc.ca/amnc-nmca/on/fathomfive
road trip | wildlife

Niagara Falls If you’ve never seen Niagara Falls, it’s worth the three-hour drive from Toronto to bask in their natural glory. The area around the falls feels a bit like a smaller version of Reno – lots of casinos and flashing lights.  See our Niagara Falls Travel Guide Niagara Falls Tourism, 180 miles south of Toronto; 800-563-2557; www.niagarafallstourism.com
casino | outdoors | waterfalls

The Beaches Toronto’s beaches, which front the sandy shores of Lake Ontario, essentially comprise a suburb of the city. In the summer, families flock to the area for its two-mile-long boardwalk, swim-friendly waters, and large parks. 5.6 miles east of Toronto
family | outdoors | swimming

Toronto Islands The easiest way to find peace and quiet in the city is to ferry over the Toronto Islands, an almost four-mile stretch of islets that are visible from the downtown waterfront. Cars are banned, parks rule, and beaches are open to the public. Toronto Ferries, 20 minutes south of the Toronto harbor by ferry; 416-392-8193; www.toronto.ca/parks/island
beach | family | outdoors | swimming