10 Best Summer Road Trip Destinations In Ontario

Thinking of taking a road trip? Ontario offers beautiful scenery, beaches and more nature than you can shake a stick at. Pack a bag (LD WEST makes the perfect bag for hiking and traveling in style), stock up on snacks, jump in your car and head to any of these 10 best summer road trip destinations.

1. Thousand Islands: There actually are 1,864 islands in this region, and there are over 1,000 things to do. The Thousand Islands region has boating, a casino, a theatre, and fishing, and it lies on the border of New York State, so bring your passport and pop over to the U.S. for dinner.
2. Niagara-on-the-Lake: For the wine fans, Niagara-on-the-Lake is home to some of Canada’s premier wineries. Take a wine tour and sample the fruits the area has to offer. Check out the Shaw Festival and the Fort George National Historic Site while you take in the picturesque scenery the area provides.
3. Sandbanks Provincial Park: In Prince Edward County you’ll find the world’s largest freshwater sand bar and dune beach. Yes, it’s Lake Ontario, but you’ll think you’re stepping onto a beach in the Caribbean. Bring your dog too since this provincial park is pet friendly. Let’s hope your little buddy behaves in the car on the way there.
4. Algonquin Provincial Park: For the campers, Algonquin Provincial Park is the place to set up your tent. Considered the border between Southern and Northern Ontario, this park will take your breath away while you hike, swim, relax and enjoy the beauty of nature.
5. Elora Gorge: On the outskirts of Guelph you’ll find Elora Gorge. The popular attraction sits on the Grand River and offers camping, tubing, fishing, hiking, canoeing and an old-style “swimming hole” where you can backstroke while gazing up at clear blue skies.
6. Point Pelee National Park: Bird watchers come from all over to see the majestic feathered beasts that soar above Point Pelee National Park. But if birds aren’t your thing, there’s a beach and trails, and the ferry to Pelee Island will take you to a winery that’s like no other.
7. Flowerpot Island: Two giant rock pillars that resemble flowerpots jut out from the shores of this quaint island. You can swim, boat and look for buried treasure because this area is known as the Shipwreck Diving Capital of Canada.
8. Bruce Peninsula National Park: Bruce Peninsula National Park has many gems, but a quick hike through the park will take you to the turquoise waters of Cyprus Lake Grotto, one of the most beautiful sights you’ll ever lay eyes on.
9. Scenic Caves of Collingwood: Although it’s known as a ski area, Collingwood is home to the longest suspension bridge in Southern Ontario and scenic caves. You can zipline or explore the caves on foot. Plus, there are some caves that are so deep that they’re icy even in the summer.
10. Muskoka: Cottage country doesn’t get much more relaxing than Muskoka. Rent a cottage or stay the night at one of the many campgrounds that line the warm lake waters. Take a dip, tan and enjoy a cold one while you marvel at how gorgeous Ontario truly is.