15+ Thanksgiving Weekend Getaway Ideas in Toronto
Thanksgiving weekend is right around the corner, and if you’re anything like me, you’re already dreaming about escaping the hustle and bustle (and maybe the mountains of dishes). Whether you’re looking to cozy up in nature, treat yourself to a city adventure, or just find the perfect spot to unwind, we’ve got you covered. From scenic escapes to urban retreats, here are the best Thanksgiving weekend getaway ideas in Toronto that will leave you feeling grateful for more than just the pumpkin pie!
Our Top Thanksgiving Weekend Getaway Ideas in Toronto
1. Explore Toronto Islands
If you’re craving a bit of nature without leaving the city, hop on a ferry to the Toronto Islands. Whether you’re strolling along the beach, renting a bike, or simply enjoying the view of the skyline, it’s the perfect place to unwind.
- Perfect for: Nature lovers, day trip enthusiasts
- Address: Ferry Terminal, 9 Queens Quay W, Toronto, ON
- Website: toronto.ca
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2. Stroll Through the Toronto Botanical Garden
Enjoy the fall colours at the Toronto Botanical Garden. It’s a great spot to wander and take in the crisp air while marvelling at the seasonal blooms and foliage.
- Perfect for: Garden lovers, peaceful retreat
- Address: 777 Lawrence Ave E, North York, ON
- Website: torontobotanicalgarden.ca
3. Take a Scenic Drive to Niagara-on-the-Lake
Looking for a charming small-town escape? A short drive from Toronto, Niagara-on-the-Lake offers picturesque streets, boutique shopping, and plenty of wineries to explore.
- Category: Couples, wine enthusiasts
- Address: Niagara-on-the-Lake, ON
- Website: notl.org
4. Visit the Royal Ontario Museum
Spend a day at the Royal Ontario Museum, where history and culture collide. Whether you’re into dinosaurs or ancient civilizations, there’s always something fascinating to explore.
- Perfect for: Culture buffs, family-friendly
- Address: 100 Queens Park, Toronto, ON
- Website: rom.on.ca
5. Wander Kensington Market
If you love quirky neighbourhoods with great food and vibrant street art, Kensington Market is your go-to. This bohemian district is perfect for a laid-back day of exploring.
- Perfect for: Foodies, art lovers
- Address: Kensington Market, Toronto, ON
- Website: kensingtonmarket.org
6. Take a Hike in Rouge National Urban Park
Escape the city for a breath of fresh air in Rouge National Urban Park, where you can enjoy a peaceful hike along its scenic trails. It’s like stepping into nature without leaving Toronto.
- Perfect for: Adventure seekers, nature enthusiasts
- Address: 1749 Meadowvale Rd, Scarborough, ON
- Website: https://parks.canada.ca/pn-np/on/rouge
7. Feast at a Farm-to-Table Thanksgiving Dinner
Head to a local restaurant offering a farm-to-table Thanksgiving meal made from locally sourced ingredients. It’s the best way to enjoy a holiday feast without lifting a finger.
- Perfect for: Food lovers, holiday seekers
- Address: Check out local options like the Gladstone House, 1214 Queen St W, Toronto, ON
- Website: gladstonehouse.ca
8. See the Fall Foliage at High Park
High Park’s sprawling 400 acres transform into a kaleidoscope of autumn colours, making it the perfect spot for a Thanksgiving stroll or picnic.
- Perfect for: Nature lovers, families
- Address: 1873 Bloor St W, Toronto, ON
- Website: toronto.ca
9. Wine Tasting in Prince Edward County
Why not make a weekend of it and head to Prince Edward County for some wine tasting? The area is home to some of Ontario’s best wineries and boasts beautiful fall landscapes.
- Perfect for: Wine enthusiasts, weekend escape
- Address: Prince Edward County, ON
- Website: thecounty.ca
10. Take a Cooking Class at St. Lawrence Market
If you’d rather DIY your Thanksgiving feast, why not take a cooking class at St. Lawrence Market? You’ll learn how to make delicious seasonal dishes with the freshest ingredients.
- Perfect for: Foodies, DIY enthusiasts
- Address: 93 Front St E, Toronto, ON
- Website: stlawrencemarket.com
11. Experience the Art at the Aga Khan Museum
For a cultural getaway, head to the Aga Khan Museum. With a vast collection of Islamic art and artifacts, it’s an enriching way to spend your weekend.
- Perfect for: Art lovers, culture seekers
- Address: 77 Wynford Dr, North York, ON
- Website: agakhanmuseum.org
12. Spend a Day at Evergreen Brick Works
This former quarry turned eco-friendly community hub is a great spot for a leisurely day. You can hike, shop at the farmers’ market, or just grab a coffee and enjoy the scenery.
- Perfect for: Eco-conscious travellers, families
- Address: 550 Bayview Ave, Toronto, ON
- Website: evergreen.ca
13. Get Spooky with the Legends of Horror at Casa Loma
If you’re in the mood for a thrill, Casa Loma transforms into a haunted house every October. “Legends of Horror” takes you on a spooky journey through Toronto’s historic castle.
- Perfect for: Halloween lovers, thrill seekers
- Address: 1 Austin Terrace, Toronto, ON
- Website: casaloma.ca
14. Visit the Toronto Zoo
For a family-friendly getaway, spend a day at the Toronto Zoo. The fall weather makes for a pleasant stroll through the various animal exhibits, plus the zoo often has special Thanksgiving weekend events.
- Perfect for: Families, animal lovers
- Address: 2000 Meadowvale Rd, Toronto, ON
- Website: torontozoo.com
15. Go Apple Picking at Downey’s Farm
Nothing says fall like apple picking! Downey’s Farm, just outside Toronto, offers apple picking, a pumpkin patch, and family-friendly activities, making it a perfect Thanksgiving weekend outing.
- Perfect for: Families, fall enthusiasts
- Address: 13682 Heart Lake Rd, Caledon, ON
- Website: downeysfarm.com
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16. Watch the Sunset at Bluffers Park
Wrap up your Thanksgiving weekend with a beautiful sunset at Bluffers Park. With stunning views over Lake Ontario and the Scarborough Bluffs, it’s a peaceful way to end your holiday.
- Perfect for: Nature lovers, romantics
- Address: 1 Brimley Rd S, Scarborough, ON
- Website: toronto.ca
From city adventures to countryside retreats, these activities will give you all the options for the best Thanksgiving weekend getaway ideas in Toronto!
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