The best day trips from Ottawa
Canada’s capital is a great hub for day trips and weekend getaways as it is located in central Canada. It has the perfect mix of having a good selection of outdoor sites and interesting cities within a few hours drive. You can go on an adventure every time of the year. So what are you waiting for? Here are the best day trips from Ottawa and the best weekend getaway from Ottawa, with the help of a few travel bloggers.
If you are looking to expand your trip to Canada, here is a 2-week itinerary in the second-largest country in the world!
Gatineau, QC
by Sophie Nadeau of Solo Sophie
Though perhaps not as exciting as some of the day trips you can take from Ottawa, one of the easiest places to visit as an excursion from the Canadian capital city is Gatineau, which gives visitors the opportunity to experience French-speaking Canada. Literally located just across the Ottawa River which divides the provinces of Quebec and Ontario, Gatineau is a ten to fifteen-minute drive away from Ottawa.
It's worth noting that Gatineau was known as Hull until 2002. Today, only the city centre district of Gatineau is known as Hull. Once in Gatineau, there are several attractions of note. By far the most popular thing to do in Gatineau is to visit the Canadian Museum of History, which documents the history of Canada throughout the centuries.
Nearby, the little pathways surrounding the Museum offer up one of the best views of the Parliament Buildings of Ottawa (otherwise known as Parliament Hill). For those visiting Gatineau in the autumn, there is perhaps no better place to head to in order to enjoy beautiful fall foliage than at Belvédère Champlain, where golden hues stretch in every direction and are simply picture-perfect. Each year in September, a hot air balloon festival is held in Bale Park.
Montebello, QC
Between Montreal, Mont-Tremblant and Ottawa lies the Outaouais region, filled with pristine forests, rural landscapes and rolling mountains. Often overlooked by other more touristic attractions, Outaouais has several small-town that will delight every traveller.
Montebello is the perfect day trip from Ottawa. In fact, a 1h drive from Ottawa. If you are starting your trip in either city, it is fairly easy to rent a car so don’t be stressed out about this factor. The Plaisance Falls offer great viewpoints of the falls. They have an impressive 67-meter drop. There are also many picnic tables, and quite frankly, is there a better place to have a picnic? Chateau Montebello is the largest log castle in the world! Manoir-Papineau is a national historic site. showcases the life of the leading politician in the 19th century. Louis-Joseph Papineau was one of the founding fathers of Canada and Quebec. Parc Omega is by far my favourite activity. It is a safari with all the animals from the northern hemisphere and is in their natural habitat. You can buy carrots and feed the cute deer and wapitis that will poke their heads through your window car to eat the treats.
Notre-Dame-du-Laus, QC
by Joanne at Sunsets and Roller Coasters
The picturesque villages of Notre-Dame-du-Laus and Val-des-Bois are only a 1.5-hour drive north of Ottawa. While it would be great to stay in a luxurious log cottage for a few nights, it’s super easy to visit by car as a day trip from Ottawa.
Both Notre-Dame-du-Laus and Val-des-Bois rest on the Lievre River which runs from the Outaouais to the Laurentians in western Quebec. The area offers plenty of activities for all ages. Wander the waterfronts and enjoy the local parks in summer or rent skates at the outdoor rink in winter. Make a point of stopping at one of the amazing boulangeries for tasty pastries, the local artisan chocolate shop or one of the many casse-croutes for delicious and authentic poutine.
Beyond the villages, enjoy hiking the trails at the Papineau-Labelle Wildlife Sanctuary and playing hide and seek with the local white-tailed deer, beaver and moose, experience rock climbing at Lac Poisson Blanc Park, challenge friends and family on the ziplines at Abraska LaFleche or go fishing in the more than 40km of waterways. In winter experience the local trails by snowshoe or cross-country skis, go ice fishing or check out the vast network of nearby snowmobile trails. Every season is filled with something for everyone to enjoy.
If visiting in summer, check out the local village calendars for outdoor summer concerts and movies. Being so close to Ottawa, it’s easy to extend the day and enjoy summer evenings in these beautiful little towns.
Gananoque, ON
by Marianne of The Journeying Giordanos
Known as the "Gateway to the 1000 Islands," Gananoque is a quaint town situated on the shores of the St. Lawrence River. At approximately 164 km (1 hour and 33 minutes) away, Gananoque is an easy day trip from Ottawa. Just take Highway 416 S to 401 W, and you are there!
With a population of only 5,000 permanent residents, Gananoque is filled with charm. Be sure to spend some time exploring King Street E, which is the main downtown street. King Street E is bustling with incredible restaurants and patios, charming boutiques and shops, and local businesses filled with clothing, gifts, and other trinkets. Keep in mind that parking along the main street in the downtown area is paid.
If you enjoy the outdoors, Gananoque is the perfect jumping-off point for all your adventures. Head to the Thousand Islands National Park for some hiking. There are several trails to choose from, many with incredible lookout points. Of course, if you want to spend some time on the water, look into 1000 Islands Kayaking Co. for kayak rentals or guided tours. This is an incredible way to see Gananoque and the 1000 Islands from a different perspective.
Another way to spend some time on the water is by taking a cruise with City Cruises Gananoque. Hop on board for a guided tour of the 1000 Islands. If you choose the Boldt Castle option, don't forget your passport, as you will be crossing into the US!
If you are visiting during the summer, be sure to stroll along the waterfront trails and boardwalk. There are several eclectic little shops, eateries, and cafés along the water that are worth exploring, as well as splash pads and parks for the kids.
1000 Islands, ON
by Ruma from the Holiday Story
The 1000 Islands is a beautiful archipelago of 1864 islands on the border of Canada and North America. It’s divided between the two countries, with the American part in New York and the Canadian part in Ontario.
The distance between Ottawa and the Thousand Islands is 134 km, and this distance can be covered in 1 and a half hours by car.
The region is a mix of big and small islands with the St. Lawrence River flowing between them. Drive along the riverside to get mesmerized by the beauty of this place. To get the best out of a day trip to the 1000 Islands, take a cruise ride from Rockport.
The cruise trip is a 2-hour-long journey that will take you around the islands. This journey is filled with breathtaking Ontario scenery. Explore the cities like Brockville or Gananoque after getting down from the boat. Experience the islands by hiking the beautiful Great Lakes Waterfront, experiencing kayaking, or simply enjoying a beach day while you’re here.
The best part is visiting the 1000 Islands Tower. This 400 ft tower allows you to take in the gorgeous view of the island. Visit the historic site of Kingston Penitentiary. It is the oldest prison in Canada, operating from 1835 to 2013.
Travel to downtown Kingston for beautiful cafes, restaurants, and boutique stores. Pick a souvenir from this vibrant market to keep a token of memory of the 1000 Islands with you forever.
Kingston, ON
Recommended by Julie from Toronto to Anywhere
Kingston, Ontario, is a beautiful destination located about 200 km southwest of Ottawa. It's easy to visit by car or by train in about two hours, making it an ideal day trip option from Ottawa.
Kingston has a lot to offer visitors who are looking to explore one of the oldest cities in Canada. With its close proximity to the 1000 Islands, a beautiful waterfront, and many historical sites, there is no shortage of things to see and do in the area. Kingston's pedestrian-friendly downtown core is not only beautiful, but it is also home to a wide variety of bars, restaurants, and shops, making it perfect for a stroll or a night out on the town. Sightseeing cruises and trolley tours are also great options for exploring historic Kingston. A range of outdoor activities is also possible here, including canoeing, kayaking, cycling, and sailing.
History buffs will appreciate visiting locations such as Kingston City Hall, which was built in 1844. Fort Henry, a Canadian National Historic Site, provides visitors with a glimpse into the lives of the British soldiers who once patrolled this area and learn about the War of 1812. The Kingston Penitentiary, a former maximum-security prison that housed some of Canada's most notorious criminals, provides a fascinating look into Canada's penal system. And finally, no trip to Kingston is complete without a visit to the beautiful campus of Queen’s University.
Whether you're looking to explore Kingston's historic downtown or explore this lovely city by the water, the charming city of Kingston is definitely worth a visit.
Montreal, QC
by Lisa Garrett of Waves and Cobblestones
Montréal is an excellent choice for a day trip from Ottawa. The easiest way to get from Ottawa to Montréal is by train. There are several trains per day between these two cities, and you will arrive in about two hours and fifteen minutes.
Montréal is built around the peak Mont-Royal, and one of the city’s main attractions is the immense Mont-Royal Park. Lace up your shoes and climb the staircase or take a trail to reach the Belvédère Kondiaronk, a large plaza with astounding views over the city and the St. Lawrence River. Located just southwest of the park is L'Oratoire Saint-Joseph du Mont-Royal, a gorgeous domed church which also houses an art museum.
You’ll also want to spend some time exploring the cobbled streets of Vieux Montréal, the city’s historic center. Be sure to visit the beautiful Basilique Notre-Dame de Montréal – this church is nearly 200 years old and features vibrant stained-glass windows. If you’re in the mood to visit a museum, you have some excellent options at the Montréal Science Center and the Museum of Archaeology and History.
Don’t forget to stop by Marché Atwater, Montréal’s best farmer’s market. Here you’ll find everything from local produce to gourmet products. Pick up some prepared items for a quick lunch!
Note that Montréal is located in the French province of Québec, so French is the official language here. Most of the residents speak English, but you’ll want to brush up on your French basics to be polite. Saying ‘bonjour’ and ‘merci’ will go a long way!
Psst: BRB has a TON of resources about Montreal as I live in the city, don’t forget to check them out!
Monreal at night. Photo by Samuel Charron on Unsplash
Algonquin, ON
Submitted by Kristin from Tiny Footsteps Travel
From Ottawa, consider a drive out to Algonquin Provincial Provincial Park, the 3rd largest protected conserved land in Ontario.
Algonquin is less than 3 hour drive from downtown Ottawa (2 hours, 49 minutes.) The best way to get there is to drive on Highway 60, which is a scenic drive that will always take you through a few small towns and into the east entrance of Algonquin, just west of the town of Whitney.
The Algonquin Provincial Park covers a landmass of 7,630 km² (2,946 square miles). To put it into perspective, this is even bigger than some Canadian provinces and most cities. There are thousands of lakes and hiking trails for a variety of ability levels, and it is home to an abundance of wildlife. The landscape and the wildlife in Algonquin create some amazing photography and birdwatching opportunities.
Algonquin is open year-round, and its beauty changes throughout the seasons. You can book a campsite to stay overnight, but if you’re planning a day trip from Ottawa, then be sure to consider some of the most epic hikes, such as the Track and Tower or Booth’s Rock (pictured), which give you gorgeous scenic lookouts from the summit. If you're looking for a more low-key hike, then Beaver Pond Trail also offers stunning lookouts and views.
Another idea for something special to do in Algonquin Park is to reserve a canoe from Algonquin Outfitters on Lake Opeongo. Being in a canoe in the middle of the lake with no sounds except nature is a serene experience. Motorized boats are not permitted on the lakes in Algonquin, which gives the lakes a calm feel, and also raises your chances of spotting some wildlife.
Calabogie, ON
Submitted by Kelly Francois of Just One Passport
If you are living in Ottawa or the surrounding area, you should definitely consider taking a day trip to the small town of Calabogie. Located an hour and a half southwest of Ottawa, road-trippers who choose to spend the day in Calabogie will have an abundance of activities to choose from which will keep them busy for at least the day.
For motor racing enthusiasts, a visit to the Calabogie Motorsports Park is an activity that is sure to keep your blood pumping. It's the longest track in Canada and offers a unique opportunity to experience the thrill of Grand Prix racing.
Calabogie Peaks Resort is a great place to visit for both winter and summer activities. During the winter season, you can enjoy skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing, while in the summer season, it offers a variety of activities including mountain biking, hiking, water sports, and golfing. It also has cozy, self-contained accommodations in case you want to extend your stay for more than the day.
For hiking enthusiasts visiting the Calabogie area in the Fall, I highly recommend a visit to the Eagles Nest Lookout. The hike to the lookout is suitable for hikers of all fitness levels, and in my opinion, offers one of the most stunning views found in the Ottawa Valley.
For beer lovers, the Calabogie Brewing Co. is a great stop for a quick pint. It has a cozy atmosphere and offers a variety of craft beers that are locally brewed. You can also grab a bite to eat from their food menu, however, I recommend dining at the famous Redneck Bistro.
The picturesque views and abundance of activities make Calabogie the best destination for anyone looking to take a day trip from Ottawa.
Eastern Townships, QC
by Renee from Dream Plan Experience
If you are looking for a fantastic day trip from Ottawa, why not head to the charming Eastern Townships in Quebec? Located just about 2.5 hours southeast of Ottawa, this picturesque region is perfect for a fun-filled adventure.
To get to Eastern Townships from Ottawa, you can hop in your car and take the scenic route along Highway 148. The drive itself is a treat, offering stunning views of rolling hills, quaint villages and lush countryside.
Now, let me tell you why it’s totally worth a day trip! Eastern Townships is a true hidden gem, brimming with natural beauty and cultural delights. You can explore the stunning landscapes of Mont Orford National Park, where hiking trails and scenic vistas await. If you’re a foodie, you’re in for a treat! The region is renowned for its local produce, wineries, and farm-to-table restaurants. Don’t miss the chance to visit one of the vineyards along the wine route near Dunham for a wine-tasting experience.
History buffs will love exploring the quaint villages and towns that dot the region, such as Magog, Knowlton and Bromont. Discover the unique boutiques and soak up the friendly local atmosphere.
No matter the season, Eastern Townships is the place to go! If you are visiting during the winter months, enjoy skiing in the town of Sutton. All other months, hiking, biking, boating, and golf take over. Whether you’re into outdoor adventures, culinary delights or simply seeking a relaxing getaway at a local spa, this region won’t disappoint.
Mont-Tremblant, QC
By Karen at Outdoor Adventure Sampler
Mont-Tremblant, a four-season destination in Quebec, is an excellent day or weekend trip from Ottawa. A scenic drive to the northeast will put you at Mount Tremblant in just under two hours.
In the winter, Mont-Tremblant is the preeminent ski resort in the Laurentian mountains. Skiers and snowboarders will love the 102 ski trails on the mountain rated for all abilities. Besides alpine skiing, the area also offers some of the best winter activities in Quebec. Cross-country skiing, sleigh rides, snowshoeing in the nearby national park, and snow tubing are popular. After a day outside, there’s also a Scandinavian spa, a casino, and sugar shacks to check out.
In warmer seasons, people come to Mont-Tremblant to golf, bike, or explore Lac Tremblant by boat. Hiking trails in Parc National du Mont-Tremblant attract hiking enthusiasts from all over. The gondola to the summit of Tremblant brings you gorgeous panoramic views of the Laurentians. The trip up is particularly spectacular in the fall with the autumn colors. Active adventures such as rock climbing, go-karting, laser tag, and a treetop walk are also available.
The pedestrian village of Mont-Tremblant is a favorite of the whole family. The colorful village has cute boutiques, excellent restaurants, and fun stores for the kids. Grab a delicious maple cream-covered beavertail fried dough to share with the family as you stroll through the village.
Mont-Tremblant has activities for everyone in all seasons. The short drive to the magnificent area from Ottawa makes it a must-do experience.
Perth, ON
Contributed by Stephanie from The World As I See It
One of the best places to visit near Ottawa is Perth. Located 85 kilometres southwest of Ottawa, it’s under an hour away. The drive is an easy one, hop on Highway 417 to Highway 7.
Perth is one of the best day trip destinations because it has a charming European vibe, without the airfare. Plus, this small town has an awesome food scene! Perth is home to a diverse list of restaurants that serve everything from Mexican to classic Canadian comfort food.
Filled with historic stone buildings and a river running through it, Perth is home to a number of scenic places. Take a stroll through Stewart Park and browse the shops in the town’s historic Code’s Mill.
Throughout downtown Perth you’ll find a variety of fun boutiques ranging from antiques to home décor. It's also known for its specialty food shops that sell everything from local cheese to chocolate.
Speaking of cheese, one of the top things to do in Perth is paying a visit to a quirky sight. Perth was made famous in the late 19th century when it produced a mammoth cheese that weighed 22,000 pounds. Now, a replica is one of the top attractions in town.
Tip: Head to Mex & Co for the best restaurant patio in Perth, overlooking the river.
Almonte, ON
by Mayra from Life on the Roam
Established on the banks of the Mississippi River, the historic town of Almonte, located about 52 kilometres (32 miles) from Parliament Hill, is perfect for a relaxing day trip from Ottawa. The 40-minute trip by car via the Trans-Canada Highway (ON-417W) will take you back to an era when Almonte was a thriving mill town.
Visit the Mississippi Valley Textile Museum, a National Historic Site of Canada from the 19th century, to see the original equipment and learn about the manufacturing process and the impact of the industry in the region.
You can also see exhibits showing the work of textile and fibre artists. You’ll see more historic buildings as you walk through downtown Almonte, which is also home to art galleries, antique shops, and cafes. The Mississippi Mills area is also known for its many festivals like the Almonte Celfest, and the Fibrefest, as well as arts and crafts shows.
Do you prefer the outdoors? No problem, Almonte also has something for you.
You can do some trails around the one-mile mark like the scenic Almonte Riverwalk trail or the Gemmill Park trail. Or you can hike for several miles along the Ottawa Valley Rail trail, where you can also bring your mountain bike or do cross-country skiing.
At the Metcalfe Geoheritage Park, close to the Grand Falls on Mississippi viewpoint and where you’ll see a display of rocks up to two billion years old, you’ll find a boat launching area from where you can launch your kayak or paddle board.
If you have more than 1 day
Prince Edward County, ON
Prince Edward County (PEC), or the county, as the locals call it, is tucked between Toronto, Ottawa and Montreal. The island lake is home to more than 30 wineries and a dozen craft breweries. This is the perfect playground for many as it offers access to beautiful lake beaches, great food and great wineries. The county is very rural and has 3 main towns Picton (the hub), Wellington and Bloomfield. Between the fields and the forests, you will get a glimpse of English colonial architecture as the region was a loyalist hub. PEC is also a 3-hour drive from the capital.
The twin centrepieces of the region are the beaches as well as many wineries and restaurants, putting the county as a top weekend getaway. The Sandbanks Provincial Park is the most popular beach spot and offers sandy beaches and blue waters that are almost the same as the Caribbean Sea colour. The park is also known for its golden sand dunes that can reach up to 25 m high. Ontario Lake is also another significant factor for winemaking and many of the wineries have astonishing lake views. Finally, the country has many thematic trails like the Loyalist Parkway, the Millennium Trail, the Arts Trail and of course the delicious Tasting Trail. Each route takes you into a different aspect of the county: gastronomy, arts, and history with various vistas and natural landscapes. The trails can be done by bike or by car.
Prince Edward County, one of the best weekend getaway from Ottawa
Toronto, ON
by Carolin of Happy When Abroad
From Ottawa, a short trip to Toronto, Canada’s largest city, is an absolute must! Passing the picturesque Ontario Lake along the way, it takes about 5 hours by train or 4.5 hours by car to reach Ontario’s multicultural capital city. Toronto offers numerous attractions and activities for every season and for every kind of budget and, therefore, is known as a popular travel destination in North America. Enjoying the view from the iconic CN Tower and strolling around the harbourfront should be on top of your Toronto Bucket List. Other great activities include taking a boat to the Toronto Islands, walking around Yong-Dundas Square as well as exploring the historic and charming Distillery District. If you’re a food lover, St. Lawrence Market is your place to go! Here, at one of the best food markets in the world, you can try your way through a large selection of inexpensive and delicious food. Another highlight in the city is Graffiti Alley, a little district where you can admire the amazing street art of Toronto’s best artists. If you still have some time left, make sure to stop by the Hockey Hall of Fame, the Royal Ontario Museum, or Roy Thomson Hall. The best thing about Toronto is that there are different things to experience at every time of the year. Relax at Ontario Lake and in the parks in summer and enjoy the many Christmas markets and ice-skating rinks in winter. As you can see, visiting Toronto never gets boring and the city is definitely worth a day trip from Ottawa.
Before you go, here are other great resources for Ottawa
Write me in the comments which trip you are going to go on first!
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