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4 Weekend Breaks Within an Hour of Toronto

Toronto is an incredible city, but sometimes you need a break that doesn’t require facing the crowds at YYZ or spending thousands on an expensive destination getaway. Fortunately, we have plenty of beautiful options closer to home with tranquility, adventure, or a dose of history. Read on to discover the best weekend breaks within an hour’s drive of Toronto.

Why Choose Ancaster for Your Weekend Escape?

There are plenty of solid travel options for weekend getaways from Toronto for couples, families, or friends, but Ancaster is a standout destination. We’re nestled at the edge of the Niagara Escarpment, within minutes of downtown Hamilton, and the perfect blend of natural beauty, rich history, and modern amenities. This isn’t your typical small town; it’s a vibrant community with a lot to offer discerning travellers.

The Barracks Inn: Your Luxurious Home Base in Ancaster

For an upscale escape, The Barracks Inn in Ancaster offers an unforgettable experience and one of the best places to visit near Toronto for 2 days. 

This beautiful boutique hotel housed in a restored 19th-century stone building, seamlessly blends historic charm with modern luxuries.  Each uniquely decorated suite reflects the building’s heritage while providing the latest in-room technologies, like the “Mason Suite,” named for the stone mason who embedded a heart-shaped stone in the wall.

Enjoy luxurious amenities like thermostatic showers, heated flooring, world-class pillow-top mattresses, Acca Kappa toiletries, and even a curated whiskey cart. As a boutique hotel, The Barracks Inn delivers attentive, personalized service, making you feel like a truly valued guest from the moment you arrive until you head back home.

Exploring All Ancaster Has to Offer

What is the best road trip from Toronto?

Ancaster is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, history buffs, and foodies alike.

Natural Beauty

  • Hike to Stunning Waterfalls. Ancaster has several breathtaking waterfalls, including Tiffany Falls, Sherman Falls, and Webster’s Falls. The trails leading to these cascades offer stunning views of the Niagara Escarpment.
  • Explore the Bruce Trail. This iconic trail, Canada’s oldest and longest marked footpath, passes right through Ancaster, providing endless opportunities for hiking and exploring.
  • Dundas Valley Conservation Area. This expansive conservation area is perfect for hiking, biking, and wildlife spotting just minutes from The Barracks Inn. Be sure to visit the Dundas Peak for panoramic views.

Historical Tours

  • Fieldcote Memorial Park & Museum. Discover Ancaster’s rich history at this charming museum, which features exhibits on local heritage and hosts various cultural events throughout the year.
  • Historic Architecture. Stroll through Ancaster Village and admire the beautifully preserved 19th-century buildings, including the historic Old Town Hall.
  • The Hermitage Ruins. Explore the hauntingly beautiful ruins of a 19th-century mansion, a popular spot for photographers and history enthusiasts.

Incredible Food

  • Ancaster Mill. A true dining destination, the Ancaster Mill offers a refined menu featuring dishes like Ontario Lamb or Roasted Duck Breast, all enjoyed in a historic mill with breathtaking views of a waterfall. Reservations are highly recommended!
  • Brewers Blackbird Kitchen and Brewery. This Ancaster gem offers a fantastic combination of delicious, locally sourced food and expertly crafted beers.
  • The Brassie Pub. A favourite local haunt, The Brassie serves up classic pub fare with a modern twist. Try their famous fish and chips or one of their gourmet burgers.
  • Coach & Lantern. Steeped in history, this British-style pub offers hearty meals, a wide selection of beers, and a lively atmosphere.

Alternative Weekend Getaway Ideas Near Toronto

If Ancaster isn’t for you, here are a few other options if you’re looking to mix things up. 

1. Niagara-on-the-Lake: Wine Country Charm

  • Wine Tours & Tastings. This is a must-do. Explore renowned wineries like Peller Estates, Inniskillin, and Jackson-Triggs. Consider a guided tour or rent bikes for a leisurely exploration at your own pace. Don’t limit yourself to the big names. Smaller, boutique wineries like Ravine Vineyard Estate Winery or Stratus Vineyards often offer unique varietals and more personalized experiences.
  • Shaw Festival. Experience world-class theatre at the Shaw Festival, featuring plays by George Bernard Shaw and his many contemporaries. Book your festival tickets in advance, especially during peak season. Look for matinee performances or consider attending a play at the smaller Studio Theatre for a more intimate setting. 

2. Elora: Gorgeous Scenery and Small-Town Vibes

  • Elora Gorge Conservation Area. This is the heart of Elora’s appeal. Hike the trails along the gorge rim for breathtaking views, or descend to the river for a different perspective. For the best views, take the trail to the “Hole in the Rock” or cross the pedestrian bridge for a panoramic vista. If you’re going during the busy season, consider visiting early in the morning or later in the afternoon to avoid the crowds.
  • Explore the Village. Stroll along Mill Street and Metcalfe Street, browsing the unique artisan shops, art galleries, and boutiques. You’ll find handcrafted jewellery, pottery, paintings, and more. Visit the Elora Centre for the Arts in its historic building to discover local artists and exhibitions. Also, be sure to check out the Shepherd’s Pub to try a local craft beer and see the glass floor that overlooks the gorge.

3. St. Jacobs: Mennonite Heritage and Market Delights

  • The Mennonite Story. Looking for unusual day trips from Toronto? Immerse yourself in the history and culture of the Old Order Mennonites at this informative interpretive center. Learn about their beliefs, practices, and way of life. Take the guided tour for a more in-depth understanding.
  • Horse-Drawn Carriage Tours. Experience St. Jacobs at a slower pace with a horse-drawn carriage tour. Several companies offer tours of the village and surrounding farmland. Book a tour that includes a visit to a working Mennonite farm for a more immersive experience.
  • St. Jacobs Farmers’ Market. This is the heart and soul of St. Jacobs and one of the best cheap weekend getaways in Ontario. Explore a vast array of vendors selling everything from farm-fresh fruits and veggies to homemade preserves, baked goods, meats, cheeses, and crafts. Arrive early to get the best selection, especially on Saturdays. Don’t miss the famous apple fritters! While the main market days are Thursdays and Saturdays year-round, the market is also open on Tuesdays during the summer.

The Barracks Inn—Boutique Hotel in Hamilton, Ontario

Whether you’re seeking a luxurious escape to Ancaster, a wine-tasting adventure in Niagara-on-the-Lake, a nature-filled retreat to Elora, or a cultural immersion in St. Jacobs, you’ll find the perfect weekend getaway within an hour of Toronto.

We hope you choose The Barracks Inn in Ancaster as your home base for exploring the region—we’re often available for last minute weekend getaways from Toronto.

Book your stay today and start planning one of the best weekend getaways from Toronto without a car!

Book Your Room Today!