5 Places for an End of the Summer Road Trip Outside of Halton

Published August 31, 2018 at 7:09 pm

Summer is coming to a close, but before we say goodbye to the warm weather and sunshine, it’s a good idea to take one last summer road trip outside the city.

Kind of like a final hurrah!

If you’re planning an end of the summer road trip, you’ve come to the right place.

Here are five places you can road trip to before the summer ends.


5) The Grotto

If you’re willing to take a three-and-a-half hour road trip (why not?!) the Grotto is a stunning attraction at Bruce Peninsula Park in Tobermory that you need to see. It’s Bruce County’s most popular attraction, located along the Georgian Bay shoreline. What exactly is the Grotto? It’s a stunning expanse including Indian Head Cove, a cave with a clear blue pool of water inside, and it can get incredibly busy in the summer months. Keep in mind that you do have to hike for about half an hour from Cyprus Lake to get to the Grotto, so it’ll be a real treat when you find it.

Summer 2017: Tobermory, Ontario/ Crystallized.

A post shared by Ayat Naseem (@ayatnaseem) on Aug 9, 2017 at 3:08pm PDT


4) Elora Quarry

Surrounded by cliffs up to 40 feet high, the main attraction here is the massive two-acre tall cliff. Complete with an abundance of trees, a sandy beach area, and of course, an expanse of water for an epic swimming trip, this might just be the can’t-miss swimming spot for your summer this year. Elora Quarry is featured in our cover photo.


3) Niagara-on-the-Lake (NOTL)

This scenic destination isn’t just for wine lovers (although it’s really, really perfect if you are into VQA vinos). Located about an hour and a half outside of the city, you can go for the day or stay overnight in one of the area’s cozy B&Bs, cute country inns or pricey villas (good if you’re taking a large group with you). The area is full of well-known wineries (obviously) and also boasts some craft breweries, fine-dining and casual restaurants, golf courses, bicycle tours and historical attractions and museums. If you visit the area, you can also check out the Shaw Festival to enjoy a little more arts and culture.

Vineyards are so beautiful… #ferrarif12 #ferrari #exoticcars

A post shared by Douglas J. DeLuca II (@douglas_j_deluca) on Aug 31, 2018 at 12:02pm PDT


2) 1000 Islands

It is an undisputed fact that the 1000 Islands, located in both Southern Ontario and Northern New York State, is gorgeous and perfect for sightseeing. If you’re more active and like exploring, it’s a good option. This geographic area is a little further out, about three-and-half hours outside of Brampton, but well worth the drive if you want to enjoy a legendary Shore Dinner, sample local wine and beer and try adventure sports like whitewater rafting.


1) Prince Edward County

Prince Edward County is quickly becoming Ontario’s newest vacation destination hotspot and it has a little something for everyone. If you’re into libations, it offers a ton of wineries, breweries and cideries that you can tour. If you’re more activity oriented, you can enjoy cottages, campgrounds, live entertainment, festivals and fairs and outdoor activities. The area isn’t too far outside of the city–about two-and-half hours or so–so it’s perfect for a day trip or an overnight stay.

insauga's Editorial Standards and Policies advertising