How to Road Trip: Montreal-Toronto

Angrignon Lake Park Loop: 1.7 miles (easy)

Mont Royal Park Loop: 5.3 miles (moderate) This is an internationally renowned public space, right in downtown Montreal. It is known for its extraordinary views of the city and winding trails. The lookout from the top is probably the most photographed spot in the city, but the park is also a great spot for a picnic.

This large park in the Plateau-Mont-Royal neighborhood offers beautiful green spaces, ponds, and walking trails. You can relax, have a picnic, or enjoy a leisurely bike ride.

Come for the food/drinks, stay for the board games. You pay a small fee and the staff with provide recommendations based on your interests and the type of board game you would like to play. We ended up playing several games that I had never tried before (in French!) and had a blast.

Old Montreal, also known as Vieux-Montréal, is a historic and charming district in Montreal. It offers a wide range of activities and attractions for visitors. Here are some things you can do in Old Montreal: Explore Old Montreal's Historic Streets: Walk through the cobblestone streets of Old Montreal to take in the historic architecture, including well-preserved 17th and 18th-century buildings. Notre-Dame Basilica: Visit the stunning Notre-Dame Basilica, known for its intricate Gothic Revival architecture and beautiful interior. You can attend a guided tour to learn about its history. Place Jacques-Cartier: This lively square is a great place for people-watching and is often filled with street performers and vendors. It's surrounded by cafes and restaurants, making it a good spot for dining and relaxation. Montreal Science Centre: If you're traveling with kids or have an interest in science, the Montreal Science Centre is located in the Old Port. It features interactive exhibits and an IMAX theater. Pointe-à-Callière Museum: This museum is dedicated to Montreal's history and archaeology. It's built on top of an actual archaeological site and provides an immersive experience. Old Port Promenade: Take a leisurely walk along the waterfront promenade, where you can enjoy views of the St. Lawrence River and see the Clock Tower. Clock Tower Beach: In the summer months, you can visit the Clock Tower Beach to relax, swim, or have a picnic. It offers a great view of the city skyline. Bonsecours Market: Explore the Bonsecours Market, a beautiful building housing various boutiques, restaurants, and galleries. It's a great place to shop for souvenirs. Art Galleries: Old Montreal has several art galleries, including the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts. It's a great place to appreciate both historical and contemporary art. Food and Dining: The district offers numerous restaurants, cafes, and bistros. You can try classic French-Canadian dishes, poutine, or enjoy international cuisine. Festivals and Events: Check for any festivals or events happening in Old Montreal during your visit, as the district hosts numerous cultural events and celebrations throughout the year. Shopping: Old Montreal has a range of boutique shops and artisan stores where you can find unique gifts and souvenirs. Old Montreal offers a mix of history, culture, and modern amenities. You can spend a day or more exploring this beautiful and vibrant part of the city.

Rent a bike or bring your own and take a ride along the Lachine Canal. It's a scenic route with plenty of parks and historical sites.

Atwater Market is a market hall located in the Saint-Henri area of Montreal. The interior market is home to many butchers and the Première Moisson bakery and restaurant. The outside market has many farmers' stalls, which sell both local and imported produce, as well as two cheese stores, a wine store and a fish store.

Jean Talon Market is one of the oldest and largest open-air markets in Montréal, with a variety of local and regional products. It is open year-round.

This neighborhood is known for its artistic and bohemian vibe. Strolling through its streets and alleys is a great way to soak in its unique character. Montreal is known for its vibrant street art scene. Take a walk around neighborhoods like the Plateau and the Mile End to admire the colorful murals and graffiti.

This luxury hotel in Montreal city center features contemporary French cuisine at the on-site Maison Boulud. All rooms feature a flat-screen TV. A variety of galleries and boutiques are within 5 minutes’ walk and a saltwater pool is located on site. The spacious rooms at The Ritz-Carlton, Montreal feature a marble bathroom with heated floors and 19-inch flat-screen TV. Asprey bath products are provided. Rooms include a digital control of lights and curtains, as well as automatic toilets. Free WiFi, a mini-bar and flat-screen TV in the bedroom are also included. A fitness center is available at The Ritz-Carlton, along with in-room massages. A business center, 24-hour concierge service and client accompaniment service are also offered. Guests can dine in the garden of Le Jardin during summer months. Cocktails and snacks are available in The Ritz Bar.

Featuring a terrace, a restaurant as well as a bar, Humaniti Hotel Montreal, Autograph Collection is located in the center of Montreal, 1.4 miles from Clock Tower Beach. This 4-star hotel offers room service, a 24-hour front desk and free WiFi. The property has a seasonal outdoor pool, fitness center, sauna and free bikes. The rooms at the hotel come with air conditioning, a seating area, a flat-screen TV with cable channels, a safety deposit box and a private bathroom with a shower, free toiletries and a hairdryer. Humaniti Hotel Montreal, Autograph Collection has some accommodations with city views, and rooms are equipped with a coffee machine. At the accommodation all rooms include bed linen and towels. Humaniti Hotel Montreal, Autograph Collection offers a business center for guest use.

Le Relais Lyonnais is located in Montreal's Latin Quarter, 10 minutes' walk from the Berri-UQAM metro station. The hotel offers a French cafe and rooms with flat-screen TVs. Guest rooms at Le Relais feature work desks and WiFi. DVD players and mini-refrigerators are also included. La Brioche Lyonnaise at Le Relais is open daily for breakfast, lunch and dinner. The restaurant also offers an extensive drink and dessert menu. Le Relais Lyonnais is a short walk from the Grande Bibliotheque de Montreal. Old Montreal and la Place des Arts are also nearby.

Long Sault Parkway might be one of the prettiest roads to drive across in Ontario, connecting a chain of eleven islands. Long Sault Parkway is more than just a road. In the summer months, it is an outdoor destination, home to three waterfront campgrounds and sandy beaches. I went in the early spring, so my photos do not nearly capture the beauty of this road.

Brockville is a hidden gem, with a historic downtown area and beautiful waterfront. *Brockville Railway Tunnel: Walk through the Brockville Railway Tunnel, a historic underground tunnel that features colorful light displays. It's a unique and free attraction. Brock Trail: Take a leisurely stroll or bike ride along the Brock Trail, a scenic pathway that runs along the waterfront and through various parks. Blockhouse Island: Visit Blockhouse Island, where you can enjoy a waterfront park, scenic views of the St. Lawrence River, and a picturesque lighthouse. It's a great spot for a picnic. Parks and Beaches: Spend time at local parks and beaches like Hardy Park, St. Lawrence Park, or Joel Stone Beach. These are great places for picnicking, swimming, and relaxing. Mac Johnson Wildlife Area: Explore the Mac Johnson Wildlife Area, which offers hiking trails and wildlife observation. It's a wonderful place for birdwatching and enjoying nature. Farmer's Market: Visit the Brockville Farmer's Market to explore local produce and artisan goods. It's a great place to experience the local culture. Waterfront Trail: Take a scenic drive or bike ride along the Thousand Islands Parkway, which offers stunning views of the St. Lawrence River and the Thousand Islands. Historical Walking Tour: Explore the historic architecture of downtown Brockville on a self-guided walking tour. Pick up a map or brochure from the local tourism office. Public Art: Brockville features several public art installations and sculptures. Take a walking tour to discover these artworks.

Kingston, Ontario offers a variety of budget-friendly activities for visitors. Here are some things to do in Kingston without breaking the bank: Explore Historic Sites: Kingston is known for its rich history. You can explore historic sites such as Fort Henry, Bellevue House National Historic Site, and the Kingston City Hall. While there may be admission fees for some of these, you can often walk around the grounds and enjoy the historical architecture for free. Waterfront Walks: Stroll along the Kingston waterfront and enjoy the beautiful views of Lake Ontario and the St. Lawrence River. Take a walk or bike ride along the K&P Trail or the Waterfront Pathway. Visit Parks and Gardens: Spend time in parks like Lake Ontario Park, City Park, and Confederation Park. Relax, have a picnic, or enjoy a leisurely walk. The Kingston Memorial Centre Gardens are also lovely to explore. Queen's University Campus: Explore the beautiful Queen's University campus. Take a self-guided tour, appreciate the architecture, and perhaps catch a lecture or event, some of which are open to the public. Wolfe Island: Take a free ferry ride to Wolfe Island, where you can enjoy the scenic countryside, visit Big Sandy Bay Conservation Area (which has an admission fee), and explore the quaint village. Window Shopping and Art Galleries: Wander through downtown Kingston, where you can window shop, admire historic architecture, and explore art galleries like the Agnes Etherington Art Centre or Martello Alley. Tett Centre for Creativity and Learning: The Tett Centre often hosts free or low-cost arts and cultural events. Check their schedule for exhibitions, performances, and workshops. Market Square: Visit Springer Market Square, which hosts farmers' markets, outdoor concerts, and events throughout the year. Hiking and Nature Trails: Kingston has several hiking and nature trails, like the Lemoine Point Conservation Area and Gould Lake Conservation Area, where you can enjoy the outdoors. Free Outdoor Concerts: Check local event calendars for free outdoor concerts and festivals, especially during the summer months.

This all-suite hotel features a saltwater indoor pool and free WiFi. A complimentary breakfast buffet is available each morning. All guest suites at Residence Inn by Marriott Kingston Water's Edge are equipped with a flat-screen TV and satellite channels. Each unit features a kitchen with an oven, a microwave and a dishwasher. A fitness center is available for guest use. For added convenience, a daily newspaper and on-site business center are provided.

Located in historic Kingston, Delta Hotels by Marriott Kingston Waterfront is located on Confederation Harbor. It features an indoor rooftop pool and all rooms have panoramic harbor or lake views. The stylish rooms at the hotel feature a flat-screen TV with in-room movies, a refrigerator and seating area. A hairdryer and ironing facilities are also standard. AquaTerra, an award-winning waterfront restaurant, serves regional dishes and wines. Delta Kingston Waterfront Hotel offers an on-site business center and free WiFi throughout the property. A gym and whirlpool are available.

This all-suite hotel is located on Lake Ontario, just 2789 feet from Queen’s University. It features a saltwater indoor pool and free WiFi. A complimentary breakfast buffet is available each morning. All guest suites at Residence Inn by Marriott Kingston Water's Edge are equipped with a flat-screen TV and satellite channels. Each unit features a kitchen with an oven, a microwave and a dishwasher. A fitness center is available for guest use. For added convenience, a daily newspaper and on-site business center are provided.

Rouge Park Valley via Vista Trail: 6.5 miles (moderate) This is a great hike that feels so far removed from the city. There are lots of rivers and forests to explore.

Scarborough Bluffs Trail: 4.0 miles (easy) Stunning views of Lake Ontario along a paved trail.

High Park: 3.2 miles (easy) There are so many trails in High Park, so I would recommend some of the interior trails which are the most scenic. If you are in here in the spring time, this is one of the best places to see cherry blossoms.

Leslie Street Spit Trail: 7.6 miles (easy) Several rocky beaches along a walking trail that extends into Lake Ontario. Found lots of sea glass!

Kensington Market in Toronto is a vibrant and eclectic neighborhood known for its diverse culture, unique shops, and artistic atmosphere. Here are some things you can do when visiting Kensington Market: Explore the Market: Take a leisurely stroll through the streets of Kensington Market, which is known for its colorful and bohemian vibe. The area is made up of narrow streets and alleyways filled with shops and stalls. Shop for Vintage and Eclectic Items: Kensington Market is famous for its vintage clothing stores, thrift shops, and artisan boutiques. You can find unique clothing, accessories, and home decor items. Try International Cuisine: The market is a food lover's paradise with a wide range of international restaurants, cafes, and food vendors. You can sample cuisine from around the world, including Mexican, Caribbean, Middle Eastern, and more. Visit Art Galleries: Explore the neighborhood's art galleries and studios, where you can view and purchase local art and unique creations. Enjoy Live Music: Kensington Market often hosts live music events and street performances. Keep an eye out for impromptu music sessions or check out local venues for scheduled performances. Discover Street Art: The streets of Kensington Market are adorned with colorful murals and street art. Take a walking tour to admire the vibrant artwork and graffiti. Attend Festivals and Events: Kensington Market hosts various events and festivals throughout the year, such as pedestrian Sundays, holiday markets, and cultural celebrations. Check the local event calendar for upcoming happenings. Try Craft Beer: Visit one of the craft breweries or bars in the area to sample locally brewed beer and enjoy the laid-back atmosphere. Support Local Businesses: Kensington Market is known for its independent and locally-owned businesses. Support small shops, artisans, and street vendors to find one-of-a-kind items and experiences.

Chinatown in Toronto is a vibrant and bustling neighborhood that offers a wide range of activities and experiences. Here are some things you can do in Chinatown, Toronto: Explore the Neighborhood: Take a leisurely stroll through the streets of Chinatown and soak in the vibrant atmosphere, colorful storefronts, and unique architecture. Try Authentic Chinese Cuisine: Chinatown is known for its delicious Chinese food. You can try a variety of dishes, from dim sum to Peking duck, at the many restaurants and eateries in the area. Shop for Asian Goods: Visit the numerous shops and markets in Chinatown to find Asian groceries, herbs, spices, and a wide selection of Asian goods, including clothing, home decor, and traditional Chinese art. Experience Cultural Festivals: Chinatown hosts various cultural events and festivals throughout the year, such as Chinese New Year celebrations, food festivals, and cultural performances. Explore the Street Art: Toronto's Chinatown is known for its colorful street art and murals. Visit Historical Sites: Learn about the history of Chinese immigrants in Toronto by visiting historical sites and landmarks, such as the Yau Yihong Chinese Art Centre and the Chinese Railroad Workers Monument. Discover Herbal Medicine Shops: Chinatown is home to many traditional herbal medicine shops. Explore these stores to learn about traditional Chinese remedies and medicinal herbs. Enjoy Bubble Tea and Desserts: Try some refreshing bubble tea or traditional Chinese desserts at one of the many tea shops and bakeries in the area. Get a Taste of Other Asian Cuisines: In addition to Chinese food, you can find restaurants serving Japanese, Korean, Vietnamese, and Thai cuisine in the area.

While shopping and dining in the Distillery District can be expensive, simply walking around and admiring the historic architecture and public art installations is free.

Explore the vibrant street art in Graffiti Alley, a hidden gem in Toronto that offers great photo opportunities.

Nestled on Toronto's inner harbor, the Toronto Music Garden is one of the city's most magical locations. The park design is inspired by Bach's First Suite for Unaccompanied Cello, with each dance movement within the suite corresponding to a different section of the garden.

Take a ferry to the Toronto Islands. There, you can enjoy beaches, bike rentals, hiking trails, and beautiful views of the city skyline. The ferry ride itself offers fantastic views and is quite affordable.

Located in Toronto, 1.5 mi from Ryerson University, The Broadview Hotel has a bar and rooms with free WiFi access. The property is located 1.6 mi from Yonge-Dundas Square and 1.6 mi from Toronto Eaton Center. Hockey Hall of Fame is 1.6 mi from the property. At the hotel, rooms are equipped with a desk and a flat-screen TV. Rooms come complete with a private bathroom equipped with a bath or shower and free toiletries, while some units at The Broadview Hotel also feature a seating area. All units feature a wardrobe. Guests have access to the on-site business center and can check the newspapers. The reception can provide advice on the area in order to help guests plan their day.

Featuring an expansive spa and full service fitness center, guests can take advantage of the indoor lap pool and hot tub of this 5-star hotel. Modern guest rooms feature various views of the city at this Toronto resort. Satellite TV and free wired internet is available in all guest rooms at the Four Seasons Hotel Toronto at Yorkville. Guests can relax in the thick terry bathrobes and enjoy views from floor to ceiling windows. Café Boulud at the Hotel Toronto at Yorkville Four Seasons offers guests a globally-influenced menu by Chef Daniel Boulud. Various cocktails and appetizers can be enjoyed at dbar, and in-room dining is available 24-hours a day. A multilingual concierge service and a 24-hour business center are provided for guest convenience at this Toronto Four Seasons Resort. Babysitting and child care services are also available.

Built in 1914, this downtown Toronto hotel blends historic charm and elegance with modern conveniences. St. Lawrence Market and the Hockey Hall of Fame are less than 10 minutes' walk away. Accommodations at this all-suite hotel are furnished with a variety of thoughtful amenities, including microwaves, refrigerators and coffeemakers. They also feature separate sleeping, dining and working areas. One King West Hotel and Residence has an on-site fitness center along with a restaurant and a bar.

Located in the entertainment district on King Street West in the Toronto city center, this modern hotel offers rooms with 47-inch LED TVs with STAYCAST. Guests can relax in the on-site sauna or enjoy a swim in the seasonal outdoor pool. Every room features a city view of Toronto.. They all features ergonomic workstations with complimentary Wi-Fi. Ironing facilities and free toiletries are included in all rooms at the Hyatt Regency Toronto. A 24-hour fitness center is available to all guests of Toronto Hyatt Regency. A business center and dry cleaning services are also provided. The hotel's King Street Social Kitchen and Lounge serves regional cuisine for breakfast, lunch and dinner; and guests can enjoy a light meal at the Mix Bistro Bar.

Located in Toronto, The Willowdale Hotel Toronto North York is just 0.9 mi from Sheppard-Yonge Subway Station. Free WiFi and local calling are included. A microwave and a fridge are provided in all suites. A flat-screen cable TV with DVD player, a desk and a seating area are featured in each suite at The Willowdale Hotel Toronto North York. A coffee machine is included. An private bathroom offers a hairdryer. Free parking is available at this hotel. Other facilities offered include luggage storage and a laundry.