Set within the centre of the Ontario Peninsula, London, Ontario, makes for a fantastic base for exploring the various destinations and attractions of Southwestern Ontario.
And while there are plenty of things to do within the city, including the Museum London, the Storybook Gardens, and various festivals at Victoria Park, a whole world of adventure is waiting to be uncovered just a short drive away.
From quaint beach towns lining the shores of the nearby Great Lakes to ski resorts and provincial park hidden gems, escape the urban sprawl with this list of the best day trips from London, Ontario.
A Quick Look At The 13 Best Day Trips From London, Ontario
The 13 Best Day Trips From London, Ontario
1. Niagara Falls & Niagara On The Lake
Niagara Falls is one of, if not the, most popular tourist attraction in Canada, rivalling even Banff National Park. What’s more, this iconic natural landmark is about a two-hour drive from Ontario’s Forest City, making it a great destination for a day trip from London.
Along with promising one of the world’s most beautiful waterfalls, the Niagara region is ripe with a massive variety of things to do. First-time visitors to this popular tourist destination will want to spend the day exploring the eponymous waterfalls, along with the surrounding city’s numerous attractions and entertainment options.
And while Niagara Falls is particularly popular during the summer months, the region becomes even more beautiful with unique attractions and things to do in Niagara Falls during the winter.
Alternatively, visitors looking to simply escape the bustle of city life with a laid-back atmosphere in one of Ontario’s most charming small towns should plan to head over to Niagara on the Lake. Boasting a quaint community feel with boutique shops and rolling vineyards, this quiet region of Niagara is the perfect day trip retreat from London.
2. Grand Bend
Home to one of the best beaches in Canada, Grand Bend is a quaint beach town located about 45 minutes from downtown London. With sandy beaches and a boutique-lined Main Street, Grand Bend is one of the best destinations for a relaxing beach day in Southwestern Ontario.
Beyond lounging in the sun along the shores of Lake Huron, there are plenty of things to do in Grand Bend, including camping at the Pinery Provincial Park, karting at the Grand Bend Motorway, and antique shopping at the local Flea Market.
And while Ontario’s top beach town makes for a fantastic day trip from London, it can also be experienced along extended weekend trips and cottage getaways.
3. Stratford
Yet another charming small town, Stratford, makes for a great day trip destination from London, Ontario. With Victorian architecture and its summer-long Stratford Festival, Stratford is one of my personal favourite destinations in Southwestern Ontario and promises a European-esque retreat just an hour’s drive from Forest City.
Even if you aren’t a fan of Shakespeare’s plays or other theatrical performances, Stratford still makes for a great day trip or weekend getaway exploring its various boutique shops and romantic small-town atmosphere.
4. Port Stanley
Like Grand Bend, Port Stanley is one of the most inviting beach communities of Southwestern Ontario and promises a quieter beach day just 45 minutes from the city. The sandy shores on Lake Erie are often not as crowded as the northern beach town, providing for a traditional laid-back beach day frolicking in the waves or building a sand castle.
While the beach is the primary draw to this small-town haven, Port Stanley also promises plenty of nearby attractions, with other popular activities being dining at its beachside restaurants, visiting the Moore Water Gardens, or even catching a show at the Port Stanley Theatre Festival.
5. Fanshawe Conservation Area
London didn’t garner the nickname “Forest City” without having more than a few breathtakingly green areas promising a natural escape just minutes from the downtown area. Throughout the summer months, the Fanshawe Conservation Area is open for a variety of outdoor activities, including camping, fishing, and boating.
The park also features numerous hiking trails weaving their way for 21 km through the conservation area, providing a world of activities for spending a summer day or even a full weekend nature retreat.
6. Fanshawe Pioneer Village
Like the conservation area, the Fanshawe Pioneer Village is located directly within London and is the perfect place for history lovers to spend an afternoon. At the village, visitors step back in time to the 19th century as they explore the early community development of the city and its surrounding villages.
The open-air museum features 33 historic buildings from throughout the 19th century. The buildings are filled with authentic artifacts from their time periods, providing guests a glimpse into what life in Southwestern Ontario was like over a century ago.
7. Paris, Ontario
It may not boast the Eiffel Tower of its European namesake, but Paris, Ontario, is one of the province’s most beautiful small towns and makes for one of the best day trip destinations from London.
Nestled along the banks of the Grand River, Paris makes for a great spot to spend a slow day perusing its boutique shops along its cobblestone streets while sampling a selection of some truly great restaurants.
8. Point Pelee National Park
One of the most popular attractions in southwestern Ontario, Point Pelee National Park, is about a two-hour drive from London and represents the southernmost point of the Canadian Mainland.
The park is a beautifully preserved area complete with hiking trails, biking routes, and water sports, including kayaking and paddle boarding. It is also an important stopping point for many migratory bird species, making it a fantastic spot for bird watchers.
And while Point Pelee National Park is a great place to make a day trip throughout the year, it is particularly special on its designated star-watching nights. Designated as a dark sky preserve, Point Pelee is one of the best places in southern Ontario for hobby astronomers and observing an unfiltered night sky.
9. Boler Mountain
A hidden gem just 10 km outside of London, Boler Mountain is a great destination for spending a winter day away from the city. A popular ski destination, the mountain features 6 km of slopes, three mountain lifts, and a winter sports area spanning a total of 63 meters through elevations of 265 and 328 metres.
While Boler Mountain makes for one of the best day trips from London following a fresh snowfall of the winter season, it also offers a world of outdoor activities throughout the summer months, including hiking trails and ziplining.
10. Prince Edward County
Located four and a half hours from London, Prince Edward County makes for an extended day trip destination but is well worth the road trip. One of the most breathtaking regions of the province, the county boasts one of Ontario’s top wine regions, over 800 km of shorelines, and the surreal Sandbanks Provincial Park.
While Prince Edward County makes for one of the best day trips from London, Ontario, I highly suggest renting a cottage and spending the weekend exploring its scenic terrains and quaint small-town culture.
11. Twin Valley Nature Park
The Twin Valley Nature Park in Brantford makes for one of the best day trips from London, Ontario, for families with small children. Home to over 400 animals from across 80 different animal and bird species, the park is one of the region’s best zoos, featuring both local Canadian wildlife and exotic species.
12. Bruce Peninsula
There are few places in Ontario as beautiful as the Bruce Peninsula. And with it being only a three-hour drive from the city, it makes for a fantastic day trip destination for spending an afternoon exploring its natural landscapes.
With several hiking trails ranging from beginner-friendly to difficult hikes for experienced trekkers, the Bruce Peninsula promises plenty of beautiful views of Lake Huron to its east and Georgian Bay to its West.
If you head a little further north, you will come to the prestigious Tobermory region, renowned for its crystal clear waters and premium camping opportunities.
13. Sauble Beach
Boasting 7 km of white sand at the base of the Bruce Peninsula, Sauble Beach is the largest freshwater beach in the world, promising plenty of space to enjoy your own private slice of this breathtaking shoreline.
What’s more, with it being just three hours from London, Sauble Beach is a great day trip location, promising plenty of sunbathing, crystal clear waters, and superb scenic hiking opportunities.
