With the weather beginning to warm up and spring around the corner, there are some great sights to see that will get you and your family ready to explore the outdoors. There are many hidden gems within Ontario that would make a great day trip for the whole family to embark upon. Here are some spots that we would highly recommend to spend the day exploring once the perfect day springs.

Toronto Island

Toronto Island park is made up of several islands including Ward's Island, Centre Island and Hanlan’s Point. To get to Toronto Island you will need to take a ferry from downtown Toronto. Ferries to Toronto Island park operate year round out of Jack Layton Ferry Terminal on Queens Quay West from 8am to 8pm, daily. On the islands you can enjoy a day of biking, walking, picnicking, and soaking up the stunning lake views. You can also visit Centreville amusement park, the Franklin Children's Garden, and the Gibraltar Point Lighthouse.

Niagara Falls

A day trip to Niagara Falls is always a great idea. You can take a scenic drive, explore the falls, and visit attractions such as the Niagara SkyWheel, Journey Behind the Falls, and the Butterfly Conservatory. To see the full list of attractions and things to do, click here.

Algonquin Provincial Park

A visit to Algonquin Provincial Park is a must-do for outdoor enthusiasts. Spring is a great time to enjoy hiking, wildlife spotting, and canoeing. The park also offers ranger-led programs and interpretive walks. There are also campgrounds you can book on the Ontario Parks official site.

Stratford

Stratford is a charming town located a couple of hours away from Toronto in the southwestern part of Ontario. It is known as Canada’s premiere arts town and for its annual Stratford Festival which presents modern Shakespearean plays. Individuals come to this town for its theatre productions, culinary scene, and picturesque surroundings. You can also visit the Stratford Perth Museum and the Stratford Farmers' Market.

Elora Gorge Conservation Area

Elora Gorge Conservation Area is one of the most beautiful natural areas in the Grand River valley. The conservation area is open for day use and camping from May 1st to October 15. This stunning natural attraction offers hiking trails that overlook impressive views of the water, kayaking, tubing, fishing, and camping. You can also visit the nearby town of Elora and explore its quaint shops, cafes, and restaurants. It even has its own swimming hole where you can do some cliff jumping into its blue-green waters.

St. Jacobs

St. Jacobs is a Mennonite community located near Kitchener in the township of Woolwich. It is known for its largest, year-round farmers' market, antique shops, and handcrafted goods. You can also visit the St. Jacobs Country Playhouse and take a scenic drive through the countryside. To view their upcoming events, check out this link here.

Bruce Peninsula National Park 

Bruce Peninsula National Park is a natural gem located on the shores of Lake Huron. It is known for its turquoise waters, rugged cliffs, and scenic hiking trails. You can also visit the nearby Fathom Five National Marine Park and see the shipwrecks and underwater caves. They also offer campgrounds that you can book in the area but ensure you make your reservations on the Ontario Parks site as soon as possible as sites get booked up pretty quickly for the summer months.

These are just a few ideas for day trips in the GTA. There are many more destinations to explore, depending on your interests and preferences. We hope we have inspired you to get out and explore Ontario this Spring.