THE BEST ROAD & DAY TRIPS FROM THE BIG CITIES!
The Best Global Day Trips, Road Trips & Weekend Getaways!
I created this website for travellers who are looking to redefine their experiences. With a focus on quick getaway trips around the world, my aim is to inspire and educate you on the best places for a weekend getaway, day excursion, and road trip journey.
If you’re asking yourself, where can I go for a quick weekend getaway?, you’ll find the best answers below.
Ready to break free from routine? Are you keen to escape on a spontaneous adventure? Join me as I share the best ways to see the world in a weekend — or even a day. Back home in Toronto, Weekend Getaways and day trips are a regular thing!
About This Rudderless Traveller
My name is Christopher Rudder, a videographer & editor, podcaster, freelance writer based in Toronto, Canada and owner of Rudderless Media.
Together with my partner Gordana Grubor, we are experts in day trips and road trips who, with our team, write high-quality, search-engine-optimized travel articles, itineraries and reviews for this site, Road Trip Ontario and other online publications.
Plus, as an audio editor (with a sexy voice), you can find me co-hosting the Road Trip Ready Podcast with my co-host and long-time friend Danille Desir Corbett. As well as hosting the Highway Highlights Podcast.
What Is Rudderless Travel?
And I get it; this all sounds great, but being prepared before you travel is important. Especially when you’re venturing into new territories where perhaps you don’t speak the language and aren’t familiar with the landscapes. This website is all about finding the sweet spot between the unknown and having some guidance.
Unlike traditional travel, rudderless travel is the idea of surrendering to the unknown. Discover hidden gems. Stumble upon local treasures. But above all, trust the journey.
To ensure your travels are both fun and informed, I’ve loaded this platform with helpful suggestions and travel guides. Think of them as your friendly helpers, giving you key details like the best backpack to use, quick itineraries (like this 48-hour trip to New York), and guides on what to do in Naples, Portugal, and all the different corners of the world.
Imagine yourself in a bustling city across the ocean from your home, not sure which street to explore or where to even grab a coffee. RudderlessTravel is here to be your go-to travel pal, offering tips to help you navigate these destinations confidently.
One-Day & Weekend Trips Around the World
How much can you really see in one day? Even 36 hours seems like a short time to discover a new place, right? But you’d be surprised. Whether you’re staying in the city and needing to escape the bustle for a day or looking for somewhere to visit on a tight schedule, day trips are ideal. And extending your stay for the weekend only makes it better.
From charming towns to breathtaking natural wonders, these guides offer a world of exploration in bite-sized adventures. There’s no need to stay home just because you don’t have extended leave days to travel. Pick one of these exciting day trips, quick weekend getaways, or mid-week road trip vacations close to you and set out to discover impressive sights and scenes.
I know first-hand that life’s best moments are often found in the unscripted, the unexpected, and the unplanned. So, let go of the ordinary, embrace the extraordinary, and let our day trips be your passport to a world of discovery. Life is too short for the mundane—immerse yourself in unforgettable day adventures.
18 Things to Do in Buffalo, NY, on Your Next Weekend Getaway
When planning a road trip to a fun-filled U.S. destination, Buffalo, New York, may not be the first location that comes to mind. Trust me, I often planned a trip to Niagara, spending the night in Seneca Casino and shopping at Niagara Outlet Mall. I’d pop over to Buffalo for “Buffalo Wings,” think there was…
11 Stops From Houston To Galveston: Discover the Gulf Coast’s Hidden Gem
Whether you’re an avid traveller, an outdoor enthusiast, or simply someone looking to explore new destinations, this Gulf Coast treasure is guaranteed to mesmerize you. Embarking on a day trip from Houston to Galveston opens up a world of unimaginable discoveries. For young adults with an interest in nature, science, and maritime knowledge, this journey…
25+ Best Places to Go Apple Picking in Ontario
Embrace the crisp fall air and the season’s beautiful colours while enjoying a classic seasonal activity – apple picking! Full disclosure, This is not something my brothers and I did as children. I’m not sure if, as children of immigrant parents, they knew that Apple Picking was something you could do as a family. Whether…
Global Road Trips
Craving the open road? Great. Pack a few snacks, pick out a groovy playlist, and learn the rules of the road in the country you’re planning on driving through. There’s something fantastic about jumping into a car (whether your own or a rented one) and taking control of your travels.
Road trips offer so much more out of your travels, allowing you to stop at landmarks and charming towns that you might have missed if you were travelling another way. You don’t need a week or longer to make a memorable road trip, either, as you’ll see in my short travel guides below.
Whether it’s the iconic Route 66, the Pacific Coast Highway, or a winding mountain pass, I share the joys of the open road, ensuring that every pit stop becomes a cherished memory. So, rev up your engines, hit the road, and let me be your companion in exploring the unparalleled thrill of the great road trip.
Featured Destinations: Best Weekend Getaways & Day Trips
The world is your oyster! And I encourage you to see as much of it as you can in your lifetime. But I do happen to have a few favourite destinations (don’t tell the others). These just work so perfectly when it comes to weekend getaway ideas.
These diverse countries offer an array of experiences, ensuring there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re drawn to cultural explorations, gastronomic delights, or the allure of natural wonders, our featured destinations promise a rich tapestry of activities, sights, and flavours.
Let the journey unfold as we delve into the heart of each destination, bringing you a global variety of moments that will ignite your wanderlust.
Travel Resources for Quick Trips
If you’re worried about the logistics of your weekend vacations? I’ve got you! I’ve made sure to include handy tips and tricks for last-minute planning to help make it a smooth ride. I don’t think you need to plan every second of your trip, but it’s never a bad idea to prepare a bit.
Toronto Budget: How Much Does It Cost To Go To Toronto?
Now depending on your needs and interests, your Toronto budget may look different from mine. Nevertheless, use this detailed spending plan as a guide. It’ll give you a better sense: of how much does it cost to go to Toronto. It’ll also shed some light on the spending pitfalls to avoid. Only an hour away…
Travel Hacking In Canada | Save On More Credit Card Rewards
Ever wonder if you are doing everything you can to get the credit card rewards you need to book a flight or pay for a stay in a hotel? Chances are, you’re probably not. Above being financially savvy and preparing by saving for your travels, credit card hacks can be a fun way to maximize your…
The Best Everyday Backpack for Travelling & Daily Use
As my love affair with backpacks continues, you may have remembered my last post about the best carry-on backpack… I have more camera bags than Kim Kardashian has Birkin bags. Jeez, it can be so hard to find that perfect backpack that checks all your boxes. I have had my fair share of ordeals trying…
Quick Getaways, Tips, & Latest Posts
Can you feel that wanderlust bug but aren’t quite sure where it’s leading you yet? Check out my latest posts to help spark the weekend vacation ideas.
The Ultimate Guide to Mont Tremblant | Plan Your Next Quebec Getaway
Whether you’re seeking a relaxing getaway, enjoying delicious food and spa treatments, or an adventure in the wilderness, Mont Tremblant has it all. Located in the beautiful Laurentian Mountains, this resort promises to be an unforgettable experience. The area is best known as a ski destination, and for good reason. It offers epic ski hills…
The Best Things to See in Laval, QC, on Your Next Weekend Getaway
Just a stone’s throw from the busy city of Montréal, Laval is a charming yet exciting destination to consider for your next weekend getaway. From the excitement of indoor skydiving to the mouthwatering cuisine at the city’s many restaurants – there is something for everyone! During my recent trip, I had the opportunity to learn…
Best Things To Do In Trois-Rivières: Enjoy a Fun Weekend in Mauricie, Québec
Are you searching for your next weekend getaway location? For travellers who are unfamiliar with the Mauricie region, Trois-Rivieres may be nothing more than a rest stop on the map between the popular French-Canadian destinations of Montréal and Québec City. But don’t let this city’s smaller size fool you! Steeped in history and European charm,…
Things to Do in Rochester, NY, on Your Next Weekend Getaway
Sometimes, the best adventures are just a short hop away. This is certainly the case when I look back on my weekend getaway to the city of Rochester, NY. It’s a charming city full of history, culture, and (let’s be honest) delicious eats. Whether you’re a history buff eager to visit the former home of…
18 Things to Do in Buffalo, NY, on Your Next Weekend Getaway
When planning a road trip to a fun-filled U.S. destination, Buffalo, New York, may not be the first location that comes to mind. Trust me, I often planned a trip to Niagara, spending the night in Seneca Casino and shopping at Niagara Outlet Mall. I’d pop over to Buffalo for “Buffalo Wings,” think there was…
11 Stops From Houston To Galveston: Discover the Gulf Coast’s Hidden Gem
Whether you’re an avid traveller, an outdoor enthusiast, or simply someone looking to explore new destinations, this Gulf Coast treasure is guaranteed to mesmerize you. Embarking on a day trip from Houston to Galveston opens up a world of unimaginable discoveries. For young adults with an interest in nature, science, and maritime knowledge, this journey…
25+ Best Places to Go Apple Picking in Ontario
Embrace the crisp fall air and the season’s beautiful colours while enjoying a classic seasonal activity – apple picking! Full disclosure, This is not something my brothers and I did as children. I’m not sure if, as children of immigrant parents, they knew that Apple Picking was something you could do as a family. Whether…
48 Hours In Toronto Itinerary: How To Spend A Weekend In My City
What to do in Toronto for a weekend? Read on as I share all my favourite places to visit and things to see. After so many years of travelling, I can’t believe it’s taken me this long to assemble a 48-hour Toronto itinerary. It’s where I was born, and it’s where I live, work, and…
2 Days In Dublin Itinerary: A Guinness-Fuelled Weekend
Spending at least 2 days in Ireland’s capital city has been on my travel list since I visited St. John’s & Fogo Island in Newfoundland & Labrador. Now that I’ve done it, I’ve compiled our trip into a handy itinerary for you. In the 1800s, thousands of Irish immigrants came to these shores seeking a…
Weekend in Quebec City: 3-Day Itinerary & Travel Guide
I cannot believe the stars finally lined up for a weekend in Quebec City getaway. I’ve been to Montreal twice and have always been impressed with its old town. Friends, family and fellow travel bloggers who have been to QC have told me that when it comes to narrow cobblestone streets, you haven’t seen anything…
3 Days In Lisbon | The Ultimate Lisbon Itinerary
Look. The only reason I’m here is to find out if I’m related to Cristiano Ronaldo, and I have 3 Days In Lisbon to figure it out! The thing is, I’m not even joking. For years I’ve been told that my great, great-grandfather was Portuguese. Information relayed through oral history – as my cousin Tanya would…
2 Days In Prague | 40+ Best Things To Do In Prague
Have you ever been invited to those parties that a friend of a friend hosts? Everybody at the party sort of indirectly knows each other – but is only truly linked to each other by the party’s host. For me, events like this are where my 2 days in Prague get brought up the most, and it usually…
