Elora, a charming little town nestled in the heart of Ontario, offers a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. With its picturesque streets, stunning natural beauty, and rich history, spending a day in Elora is an experience to remember. Although once you arrive, I know that you’ll want more than one day in Elora!
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In this post, I will provide a recommended itinerary for a short visit to the beautiful village of Elora. With the perfect blend of adventure, relaxation, and excitement, you will definitely have a day to remember and will want to return to this beautiful village time and time again.
A Day In Elora – The Perfect 1 Day Itinerary
- Getting To Elora
- An Adventurous Morning In Elora
- Hiking At Elora Gorge
- Tubing And Kayaking At Elora Gorge
- Picnicking At The Elora Gorge
- Biking For A Memorable Day In Elora
- One Day In Downtown Elora
- Shopping In Elora
- Relax In Elora With A Cold One
- Stroll Elora’s Hidden Gem
- A Memorable Visit To Elora Mill
- Grand River Raceway
- One Memorable Day In Elora: In Conclusion …
Getting To Elora
With over 10,000 people flocking to Elora every year, it has quickly become a popular tourist town in Ontario, Canada. Being only 2 hours from Toronto, Elora has also become a popluar one day road trip destination among the city folk.
I’m lucky to live only 20 minutes from Elora, so I’ve visited 100’s of times. Since I’ve been so often, I’m able to provide you with the best one day itinerary which will help to make your visit a memorable one. So….let’s get started!
An Adventurous Morning In Elora, Ontario
There is no better way to begin the day with an invigorating workout. Elora offers various magnifant hiking venues, however, my favorite is the beauty of the Elora Gorge Conservation Area. This is one place in Elora that you won’t want to miss, so I recommend that you pack up your day hike essentials and bring themm along for the ride.
Know Before You Go
β Located at 74 Wellington Road 21, Elora, Ontario
β open for day use from May 1 to October 15
β The trails are not accessible
β Day Use cost is $7.08
β Camping is available from May 1 to October 15
Hiking the Trail at the Elora Gorge
Take in the beauty of the limestone rock from 22 meters above the gorge, as you wind your way through 3 kilometers of easy, but non-accessible, hiking trails. Hiking the trail at the Elora Gorge is the perfect start to the day for all hiking enthusiasts, nature lover’s, and birdwatchers.
The trail at the Elora Gorge is suitable for couples, families and even solo hikers, however, it is important to follow the safety measures put in place.
Tubing and Kayaking at the Elora Gorge
If you’re an adrenaline junky visiting Elora, you will definitely want to feel the exhilaration of tubing or kayaking the swift moving currents found at the Elora Gorge.
Picnicking at the Elora Gorge
After your adrenaline filled morning, you will have worked up an appetite. There are ample spots at the Elora Gorge to laze and soak up your surroundings. You will want to bring a picnic when visiting Elora for the day.
β For more information or to make reservations, visit their website
Exploring Elora By Bicycle
If hiking, tubing or kayaking aren’t your cup of tea, not to worry, there are other ways to get a smaller morning workout in.
Bring your bike, or rent a bicycle and take an historic bike tour of the beautiful town of Elora.
One Day in Downtown Elora
Once you’ve completed your morning workout, it’s time to do some more relaxing activities.
Shopping in Elora
In the afternoon, indulge in some retail therapy by browsing the unique, colourful shops and boutiques that line the streets of Elora. From handmade crafts to antique treasures, there’s something for everyone. While you’re browsing through the shops, don’t forget to make time to chat with the friendly locals who are always happy to share stories and recommendations.
Relax in Elora With a Cold One
Location: 107 Geddes Street, Elora, Ontario
Craft beer lover’s will not be disappointed. The small village of Elora offers one of the best brewpubs in the area. Relax with a cold beer and grab a bite to eat at the Elora Brewing Company.
Just One Tip: Elora Brewing Company can get very busy on weekends. If you plan on making a stop at this brewpub, it’s best to avoid meal time, or better yet, visit during the week.
Stroll Elora’s Hidden Gem
While wondering the streets 5 minutes away from Elora’s main street, you will stumble across Victoria Park. Victoria Park provides visitors the opportunity to stroll along the banks of the Grand River from above (free of charge). For those wanting to “cool off”, head towards the bridge where you will find stairs leading down into the gorge.
A Memorable Visit to the Elora Mill
Location: 77 Mill Street West, Elora, Ontario
Your day in Elora wouldn’t be as exciting without visiting the Elora Mill. The Elora Mill is a historic landmark that has been transformed into a luxurious hotel and spa.
Finish off your day in Elora by treating yourself to a relaxing massage or indulge in a rejuvenating spa treatment at the Elora Mill. Bring your bathing suit, as you can enjoy the tranquility of the pool and hot tub over-looking the rapids of the gorge for a full two hours before or after your spa treatments.
Just One Tip: When visiting the Elora Mill, ask the front desk if you can take a look at the kitchen and watch the professional chefs at work π
Once you’ve finished your spa treatments, heading to the elegant restaurant for a romantic dinner overlooking the rushing waters of the gorge, will be the perfect ending to the perfect day in Elora, and will create memories for years to come.
Just One Tip: Parking is free when visiting the Elora Mill for a spa treatment. To access the parking lot, you will have to cross the river and turn right on the first street. Drive to the condos where you will access the parking lot. Bring your ticket into the spa and they will validate it for you
Grand River Raceway
Location: 7445 Wellington Road 21, Elora, Ontario
If you aren’t quite ready to call it a day, head to the Grand River Raceway for some heart pumping excitement. You can check the race schedule here.
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If you aren’t ready to leave and want to spend the night, check out the accommodations in Elora!
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- One Memorable Day In Elora
One Memorable Day In Elora: In Conclusion …
I hope that the memories made on your one day visiting Elora serves as a reminder that even in our fast-paced world, that moments of serenity, connection, and wonder can be found in the most unexpected places. I know for me, Elora is definitely that place.
Are you in need of the expertise of an experienced travel agent?
Kelly is a licensed travel agent and avid solo travelled located in Canada. She is passionate about ensuring her client’s have the best vacation possible.
Happy & Safe Travels π
Travel Solo Like a Pro!
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PIN FOR ONE MEMORABLE DAY IN ELORA
This was such an insightful post to read on a day trip in Elora. I’ve never visited Canada before but I’d love to one day. If I’m ever in the area I’ll be sure to check out your recommendations. Thanks for sharing all your tips!
I hope you’re able to visit us one day. There’s so much to see in Canada. After 63 years, I’m still discovering new things.
Such great ideas!!
Wow, looks amazing! I have super fond memories of Canada because I grew up with great grandparents that lived there and it seemed like a magical place to me. π Also my dad went to a boarding school by Quakers called Pinkering which I do not think is too far. I lived in Michigan and the Boblo boat was part of my childhood and I still have home movies of visiting Canada. I will definitely put this on my list!!
Hopefully you’ll be able to visit us again soon!
I had never heard of Elora before your post. Now itβs on my future itinerary for when I make it to Canada! Thank you for all of the information!
It’s a great little town and very popular with tourists. I hope you get to visit at some point.
This is so helpful, thanks for sharing!!
Elora is such a beautiful little town. Everytime I go I find something new to see or do
I’ll be visiting Toronto for family, but I can’t wait to spend a day in Elora now too!
I hope you can go. It’s a beautiful town with a lot to see and do
Now I need to go to Ontario! Another place on the list!
When people think of Ontario, they think of Toronto or Niagara Falls, but we have so many beautiful small towns
This sounds like just my cup of tea.
I love this little town. It has something for everyone.
What a fascinating place! Definitely one for my list!
It’s a great little town to visit for the day
From Toronto it was a bit further, but still a good idea for a day out.
Agreed!
Right, Elora is an easy day trip from Toronto and a welcome change from the big city.
Agreed! I’m in kitchener so I’m only 20 minutes away
Thanks for the wonderfully thorough post! Very helpful π
You’re very welcome! Elora is one of my favourite towns and it’s only 20 minutes down the road from me π