Ah, Canada! It’s stunning, and, well, it’s also pretty convenient for a quick getaway. Just hop in your car, set your GPS, and you’re off on an international adventure.
But wait, where to? Caroline Trelfer from Lonely Planet has some stylish suggestions for destinations that might just be the perfect alternative to our usual summer spots just south of the border.
Swap North Fork for Niagara-on-the-Lake
Drive time from New York: About 7 hours.
Small town charm: Niagara-on-the-Lake, a quaint spot, is right at the heart of one of Canada’s finest wine regions. It boasts a delightful waterfront and a vintage feel.
Location: Located across the river from Youngstown, it’s a scenic drive with a lot to offer.
Where to stay: For a taste of history, the Prince of Wales hotel immerses you in 19th-century elegance with its wooden panels and plush seating. Alternatively, indulge yourself at the Riverfront Harbor House hotel, which features a luxurious spa.
Activities: Explore over 100 wineries that specialize in cool climate varietals. Trelfer mentions that this area is famous for its ice wines, made from frozen grapes harvested in winter. After a busy day, check out the George Bernard Show Festival, with highlights including Cole Porter’s “Anything Goes” during 2025.
Dine and drink: Don’t miss the Canadian butter tart at a local bakery, and for dinner, Treadwell Cuisine offers a superb three-course tasting menu with or without wine pairings. A great value.
Good to know: This area is home to North America’s oldest golf clubs, nestled along Lake Ontario’s shoreline.
Trade the Adirondacks for the Laurentians
Drive time from New York: Approximately 9 hours.
Wilderness appeal: The Laurentians offer a fantastic blend of winter sports in the colder months and stunning parks and reserves in summer and fall. Trelfer highlights cozy log cabins and numerous lakes.
Location: Val David serves as the regional hub.
Where to stay: For a unique experience, stay in minimalist A-frame cabins at Farouche Tremblant, surrounded by beautiful forests.
Activities: The resort features trails perfect for biking when the snow melts, and Parc National du Mont-Tremblant is ideal for hiking amidst breathtaking landscapes.
Dine and drink: The iconic Au Petit Poucet diner is perfect for breakfast or lunch with delicious Quebecois specialties. Enjoy a summer evening at Archibald Microbrewery’s terrace.
Keep in mind: The Laurentian peaks are generally lower than the Adirondacks, making them more suitable for families and casual outdoor enthusiasts.
Replace Cape Cod with St. Andrews by the Sea
Drive time from New York: About 8.5 hours plus a short border crossing.
Historical touch: This area is steeped in history, with many 18th and 19th-century buildings still beautifully preserved.
Location: St. Andrews serves as a prime base for exploring the peninsula.
Where to stay: Treadwell Inn offers comfortable rooms with private balconies, while the Algonquin Resort showcases a design that inspired Stephen King’s depiction of the Overlook Hotel in “The Shining.”
Activities: From June to October, you can enjoy whale watching cruises or leisurely strolls along Water Street filled with charming shops. Don’t forget the historic Pendlebury Lighthouse, well worth a visit.
Dine and drink: Sample seafood chowder or grilled lobster at local spots and compare recipes. Both places serve scrumptious chowder!
Interesting fact: The tides here can be dramatic, with significant shifts occurring in a single day.
Substitute Hampton for Prince Edward County, Ontario
Drive time from New York: Roughly 7.5 hours.
Charming scenery: Picture a quaint area brimming with vineyards, craft breweries, and artsy shops.
Location: The towns of Picton, Bloomfield, and Wellington are worth exploring.
Where to stay: The Drake Hotel, a local favorite, revitalized the area and still attracts visitors. Alternatively, find tranquility at Lake Mountain Resort.
Activities: Trelfer emphasizes the necessity of booking ahead for Sandbanks Provincial Park, especially during busy summer weekends. The stunning Dunes Beach is a must visit for families.
Dine and drink: Treat yourself to fresh oysters and local wines at the lakeside oyster bar, and don’t forget to plan a wine tasting tour.
Important note: The lakeside beaches can be rocky, so waterproof footwear is a smart choice.
