Keep those adventures coming for summer, Canada! It’s time to make the most of these remaining hot days (and long, warm nights) and plan an extra memorable long weekend getaway for this vacation season.
Wondering where to go for your next long weekend? Whether you’re looking for a big-city adventure, a small-town visit, or a beach paradise, we’ve put together this list of amazing long weekend destinations for your end of summer escape this year. There’s something in here for everybody – we made sure to include a couple of domestic options, a beach town, and an outdoor Eden, all possible to enjoy for a summer long weekend to remember. What are you waiting for? Pick a trip and let’s get packing.
Toronto, Ontario, Canada
Looking for a big city long weekend getaway that’s great for walking around and seeing the sights? Look no further. Toronto is a city of neighbourhoods, and we’re sure you’ll find at least a few to love in the 158 that make it up. Walk through charming Cabbagetown to check out Toronto’s oldest district and distinctly Torontonian Victorian-style houses.
On the other side of the city, High Park is a green oasis offering a city break for parents and kids, and there’s a little zoo! Quirky Kensington Market is a must-visit for one-of-a-kind shopping and snacks (be sure to stop by Bunner’s for vegan and gluten-free baked goods!). Head over to the Church-Wellesley Village at night to check out the city’s LGBTQ+ nightlife, celebrations, and drag shows. Of course, we have to mention Little Portugal and Little Italy, both excellent Toronto neighbourhoods for shopping and food.
Speaking of food, one of the best things about Toronto is the food scene, and the wonderfully diverse population makes it easy to get authentic, well, anything anytime you’re craving it. Koreatown’s Korean Village Restaurant offers delectable Korean and Japanese goodness. Want to stay in the Little Italy or Little Portugal area? Try nearby La Palma for lunch or dinner.
As for what else to do in Toronto, Ripley’s Aquarium is always worth a visit for the whole family. Check out Graffiti Alley to see some amazing local street art. Then, stop by the Bata Shoe Museum for a unique experience. If you have a couple of extra days for your trip, check out one of these top places to visit for an overnight getaway in Ontario.
Where to stay in Toronto
Looking to splurge on your trip to Toronto? Stay at the luxurious Shangri-La or One King West, right in the middle of all the action and Toronto’s top attractions.
While it’s no small feat to find an affordable hotel in Toronto right now, Sonder The Beverley on stylish Queen Street West is a comfortable and convenient option for travellers.
Los Olivos in Santa Barbara, USA
For this unique long weekend getaway, you’re going to fly into LAX, rent a car, and drive two-and-a-half hours north to the gorgeous and quaint Los Olivos community up in Santa Barbara County. What’s up there, you may ask? Wine, wine, more wine, and relaxing vibes perfect for a long weekend getaway.
Los Olivos has some of the best wineries and tasting rooms in California, making this rural destination a tourism hotspot. Need something else to do? Try a sunset kayak tour. Later, visit Olive + Lavender Farms to find out where all that wine comes from and enjoy some bespoke olive oil. Whether you’re looking for a romantic long weekend getaway or a short trip with the girls (or guys!), you’ll love visiting this sweet little town and the short road trip along the way.
During your visit, be sure to check out the city of Santa Barbara on the coast to see some of its red-roofed, Mediterranean-style buildings. Check out the trendy neighbourhood called “The Funk Zone” where you can café hop and shop til you drop after walking the Santa Barbara Pier and soaking up that Pacific breeze.
If you’re looking to make some pit stops on your way over to Los Olivos from LAX, spend an afternoon (or an overnight) in the city of Ventura. One of our recommendations for Easter getaway destinations, Ventura is a typical California town filled with amazing beaches and breweries to explore, not to mention coastal trails with impressive views of the nearby Channel Islands.
Where to stay in Los Olivos
For a luxury stay, The Inn at Mattei’s Tavern has everything you need.
For a more budget-friendly option, visit Mattei’s just for the food and opt to sleep at the Flying Flags RV Resort & Campground for an unforgettable glamping experience. Looking for something more traditional? Hotel Corque might be a perfect fit.
Puerto Morelos, Mexico
This delightful port town close to Cancun makes for a perfect long weekend getaway without all the ruckus of a resort. Fly into Cancun International, rent a cheap car (or book a driver to take you to your hotel), and drive just under 40 minutes to get to Puerto Morelos, where you’ll be greeted with turquoise Caribbean waters without all the tourists and splashing. Sit back and relax – that’s all you have to do here.
The first town of Mexico’s Riviera Maya, Puerto Morelos offers a laid-back setting for a long weekend getaway that’s built around one central goal: to chill.
However, for those who can’t sit still, there are plenty of things to do for an adventurous and memorable long weekend getaway. Check out the Ruta de Los Cenotes, a whole region filled with cenotes, for a one-of-a-kind swimming experience. Do some research and drive to your favourites (We recommend Cenote La Noria). Still not enough water for you? Book a snorkelling tour to explore the beauty of the nearby reef. Hungry? If seafood is a must, get a table at MEM al Mare. Looking for local fare? Check out Lola y Moya, a cute café with Mexican favourites.
Where to stay in Puerto Morelos
If you’re looking for relaxation with that little dose of luxury for your long weekend getaway, Puerto Morelos is there for you. A stay at the all-inclusive Dreams Jade Resort & Spa won’t break the bank. If you’re still looking to save a bit, check out the all-inclusive Hotel Marina El Cid Spa & Beach Resort. Both are four-star resorts, so get ready for the ultimate relaxing long weekend getaway in the Mexican Caribbean.
Canmore, Alberta, Canada
You’ve heard of Calgary, but did you know that if you drive just over an hour west, you’ll find yourself in the pleasant mountainside town of Canmore? Take notes – we want this to be at the top of your list for your next long weekend getaway.
Nestled near the southeast of Banff National Park in the Bow Valley, Canmore is a Canadian treasure for the nature lovers in the group. With over 71 kilometres of multi-use trails (and that’s just within the town limits), there’s no end to the multitude of outdoor activities you can get up to in Canmore for an unforgettable long weekend.
With winter being a popular tourist season in the Canadian Rockies, visiting Canmore in the summer means that you’ll find fewer crowds and be able to enjoy the natural surroundings in a unique way. Kayak, take a dip in the lakes, and spend a day lounging at the beach by Quarry Lake, all before cooling off with a local craft beer in town. Sounds like a perfect Canadian summer, eh?
When it’s time to replenish your energy with food, visit local favourite Crazyweed Kitchen serving up “fancy, not-so-fancy” fare. And in between all the hiking and eating, make sure to rest and rejuvenate at a nearby hot spring. Best of all, Canmore is cheaper than Banff, so you can get all that Canadian mountain adventuring done on a budget. Ready to plan your next long weekend to Western Canada? Fly into Calgary, find an affordable car rental, and get going.
Where to stay in Canmore
For a cozy feeling with added luxury, the Northwinds By Basecamp is a quick drive from Banff National Park and 30 minutes from the Upper Hot Springs.
If you’re looking for a more of a condo-style stay, the Basecamp Suites Canmore offers amazing views of the Rockies in a comfortable and stylish setting.
Dover, England
Just a short flight over the Atlantic away lies London, a cosmopolitan metropolis fit for a queen (or king). You’ve probably heard of it. But have you heard of the nearby town of Dover? Grab a cheap car rental from London and let us take you there over the course of a picturesque journey lasting just under two hours through the English countryside. There’s so much to do in Dover, we don’t even know where to begin. Let us just say that your long weekend getaway is going to be pretty stacked.
Visiting the famous Cliffs of Dover is an absolute must — you can go alone or on a tour. For history lovers, there’s also Dover Castle, England’s largest castle! that dates back all the way to the 11th century. From Napoleon’s time, there’s the Western Heights of Dover, created to protect the city from French invasion. For more modern history buffs, plan to stop at the Fan Bay Deep Shelter, a series of tunnels dug for artillery battery dating from World War II.
We all need to eat. When you’re feeling peckish, we recommend The Happy Chef for some typical British meals. The Pines Garden Tea Room And Museum offers a two-in-one experience with a six-acre garden and delicious meals and drinks. Top off the night with a pint at The White Horse, a local haunt in Dover.
Where to stay in Dover
Rest your head at the Best Western Premier Dover Marina Hotel & Spa. Located just steps from Dover Beach, you’ll have easy access to lots of Dover’s main attractions. For a real bargain, the Dover Town Rooms offers cozy quarters for less than $100/night.
Want to read more? Check out our other dreamy destination lists.
- Summer road trip? Explore Canada’s East Coast with these tips.
- This list of the shortest international flights from Canada can help you pick your next trip.
- Find out about these underrated bucket list trips you may not have heard about.
