Sometimes you don’t have to go far to feel refreshed. Going off the beaten path in Ontario is always a good option for affordable, short-drive road trips that yield idyllic shorelines, rolling hills and quaint small towns.

Whether you’re camping, popping into hotels or visiting friends, you’re bound to find ample low-cost adventures that deliver good value. Your budget-friendly long weekend starts now.

Lake Huron Loop: The best-value beach vacation in Ontario

For a low-key getaway, head northwest from Toronto for a stroll along the boardwalk in Southampton, on the shores of Lake Huron. The long, shallow beaches are great for kids and are supplied with plenty of ice cream and chip trucks — not to mention incredible sunsets.

Make time for the historic Chantry Island Lightstation Tower (also known as Chantry Island Lighthouse). Drop down to Goderich for a picnic in the octagonal Courthouse Square. After a cultural stop at Huron Historic Gaol, a National Historic Site, take a walk across the Menesetung Bridge to reach the trailhead. Goderich has three beaches to hit, but if you only have time for one, choose the quieter Rotary Cove Beach. Farther south, Bayfield’s historic Main Street delivers with a relaxed wander through indie shops, galleries and cafés.

Waterloo Triangle: Market wandering and Mennonite culture

About 90 minutes west of Toronto, the Kitchener-Waterloo region is filled with outdoor adventures, interactive history, plus an abundance of affordable eateries and cozy pubs. Take a walk through Kitchener’s Victoria Park, then stop at the playground and splashpad.

South of town, Doon Heritage Village is a living museum complete with interpreters in period dress. Head west a bit for more than 250 acres of forest and wetlands at Huron Natural Area. And north of Kitchener, the community of St. Jacobs is known for its Farmers’ Market and engaging Mennonite heritage — famous apple fritters included.

Kawartha Strip: Cottage country without the price tag

Start this southeastern adventure in the town of Cobourg on Lake Ontario, with a picnic at Victoria Park beach. Walk the boardwalk to the marina or meander out to the lighthouse before browsing the King Street shops.

Peterborough is your next stop. Discover plenty of casual places to eat before or after your visit to the Canadian Canoe Museum. Complete your tour with a stop at the iconic Peterborough Lift Lock.

Farther north, historic Queen Street in Lakefield offers cute boutiques, cafés and bakeries, as well as an indulgent chocolatier, The Chocolate Rabbit. Discover the Otonabee River boardwalk or drink in the dockside vibes at the lock. Visitors can explore a stretch of the Lakefield Trail or indulge at a local berry farm or boutique winery.

Make your travel dollar go farther

• Tune up the car before you leave home to ensure peak performance on the road. This will make your trip more fuel efficient, with less worry about repairs mid-trip. 
• Fuel up off the main highways for lower prices. Stay off the roads during busy hours to avoid idling in heavy traffic.  
• Bring your own food, drinks and snacks for both the car and the hotel room. Pack two cooler bags: one for items you’ll reach for frequently and a second for any frozen foods you may be bringing to a campsite or a picnic area. 

Look to CAA for more road-trip benefits

CAA Members can get additional savings by exploring fuel discounts at participating Shell locations across Canada and by taking advantage of the saving and perks at partner restaurants. Just two more great ways CAA gives you more for your travel dollar.

Hit the road for less. Visit caasco.com/rewards to discover savings on fuel, dining and more for your next adventure.