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• Canada / Ontario / Travel

Day Trips from Ottawa: +17 Best Places Near Ottawa to Visit

by Stephanie · Published November 1, 2023 · Updated January 11, 2024

Ottawa, the capital of Canada, is a popular destination for locals and travellers alike. The city is rich in history, culture, and natural beauty. However, so too does the surrounding places near Ottawa. Thanks to its perfect location, there are a number of day trips from Ottawa.

With family from Ottawa, I’ve been travelling to and around Ottawa for over 40 years. And if you’re like me and always on the hunt for cute Ontario small towns, then you’ll love exploring the region around Ottawa! A few favourites that keep drawing me back are Almonte, Perth, and Carleton Place.

The Ottawa Valley and area is full of pretty little towns, hidden gems, and a wealth of parks to soak in the wonders of nature. Plus, many of these locations are accessible for those without a car. So, whether you’re visiting the nation’s capital by car or without, add a few of these unforgettable day trips near Ottawa to your itinerary!

15 Best Day Trips from Ottawa in Ontario

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Set along the Mississippi River, Almonte is one of the prettiest towns in Ontario ! Often used as a backdrop for Hallmark movies, it’s a scenic day trip from Ottawa all year long.

The main road of downtown Almonte is lined with cute boutiques, including plenty of antique shops. You’ll also find a statue of Dr. James Naismith, the man who invented basketball.

Foodies will an array of incredible places to eat and drink in town. Eating your way through town is one of the top things to do in Almonte ! Downtown is home to cute cafes, top notch restaurants, and an adorable tea room.

Minutes from downtown is a collection of businesses, clustered close to each other, that features the best local treats! For chocolate head to Hummingbird Chocolate Maker. If visiting on Saturday, check out their amazing tour and tasting.

Nearby is where you’ll find the healthiest donuts in Ontario – Healthy Food Technologies. Then head across the street to the coolest distillery, Dairy Distillery. They make spirits out of a milk protein!

Almonte is a great place for nature lovers! There are a number of trails located in town and nearby. Plus, don’t forget to check out the Grand Falls.

Distance from Ottawa – 55km

Time to reach destination – 40 minutes

Recommended time spent – Half day

Where to eat – Lunch at Tea & Cake – Dinner at Stirling

Another great town near Ottawa that’s perfect set along a river is Perth Ontario ! An hour drive from the city, Perth is best known for its European vibes and Mammoth Cheese.

With streets lined with stunning heritage buildings and the picturesque Tay River, you’ll find an array of things to do. And there’s something to suit everyone’s interests.

For those looking to explore the history and charm of Perth, there’s a museum and walking tour. If you’re looking for more culture, there are a number of art galleries in town.

In addition to the Mammoth Cheese, one of the top attractions is Code’s Mill. This historic complex is comprised of five different buildings and dates to 1842. Inside you’ll find various sweet shops and a restaurant.

Across the street from Code’s Mill is one of the many great green spaces in Perth, Stewart Park. Grab a coffee from one of the many cute cafes in town and take a wander through the park.

This small town is one of the best day trips from Ottawa by car because of the nearby parks. Murphys Point Provincial Park is a must visit. Nature seekers will love exploring its hiking trails. While history buffs will love a tour into the 1900s Silver Queen Mine .

Distance from Ottawa – 88km

Time to reach destination – 1 hour

Recommended time spent – Full Day

Where to eat – Lunch at Mex & Co. – Dinner at Maximilian Restaurant

Carleton Place

A must addition to any Eastern Ontario road trip is Carleton Place! This small town is a hidden gem of an Ottawa day trip.

Visitors planning a trip out of the city will find a wealth of things to do in Carleton Place . There’s plenty to keep you busy for a full day and more!

Start your visit at one of the many charming coffee shops. Two great options are Foundry and the Good Food Company.  A fun one to pop in for horror movie buffs is Deadly Grounds.

Then head over to the Visitor Centre where you can rent a bicycle to travel around town. In addition to exploring town by bike, cycle to Almonte along the Ottawa Valley Rail Trail. In under two hours you can cycle there and back. It’s a great way to visit two towns near Ottawa in one day.

But there’s plenty to do in downtown Carleton Place! Browse the unique shops that include everything from items created by local artisans to fabulous clothing boutiques.

Throughout downtown are a number of incredible murals too! Plus, if you love art, check out the Carleton Place Gallery. It’s full of stunning pieces of various mediums.

Where to eat – Lunch at Waterfront Gastropub – Dinner at Black Tartan

Merrickville

Nestled along the Rideau River, Merrickville is one of the best day trips from Ottawa! Full of history, this town is home to stunning architecture and fun things to do.

Merrickville is best known as one of Ontario’s art towns, with its wealth of artists that range from glassblowers to painters. One of the best places to take in outstanding pieces is at Gray Art Glass.

Throughout town you’ll find a variety of unique shops too. Many of which feature unique gift ideas including sweet treats like caramels, ice cream, and Merrickville Cookies.

If you’re visiting during the fall, be sure to pop into Wick Witch Apothecary for fun Halloween vibes. However, this candle shop oozes witchy vibes all year round!

History buffs will love exploring the Merrickville’s historic sites! Start at the Merrickville Blockhouse. This National Historic Site of Canada was built for defense in case of another war with the United States. It’s the largest blockhouse on the Rideau Canal. Now housing a museum, visitors can go inside seasonally.

Another historic gem to explore is the ruins that line the Canal. The ruins are what remain of an industrial complex that dates back over 200 years. It included a sawmill, woollen mill and more.

Distance from Ottawa – 78km

Time to reach destination – 55 minutes

Recommended time spent – Half Day

Where to eat – Lunch at Yellow Canoe Cafe – Dinner at The Goose & Gridiron

Located southwest of Ottawa is the quaint village of Westport. There’s plenty of water surrounding Westport, including Upper Rideau Lake.

The big attraction in Westport is Foley Mountain Conservation Area . Perched above the village, it has the title for the highest conservation area in the Rideau Valley.

The park is home to numerous trails, ponds, wildlife, an interpretive centre, and one of the best lookouts in the area. Spy Rock lookout gives visitors a bird’s eye view of Westport and the surrounding area.

In the downtown of Westport, you’ll find fun gift shops to browse, like Pinecone. There’s also a number of places to eat and drink, including a brewery. Plus, if you’re keen on yummy treats, Westport has a great bakery and ice cream shop.

Other spots to check out include the picturesque harbour and Scheuermann Vineyard & Winery.

History buffs, or those looking to learn more about Westport, will love this walking tour . It includes over 30 historic and notable buildings. Plus, check out the Rideau District Museum for more Westport history.

Distance from Ottawa – 118km

Time to reach destination – 1.5 hours

Where to eat –Tangled Garden Cafe

Bonnecherre Caves

One of the coolest things to do near Ottawa is visit Bonnecherre Caves ! Located outside the town of Eganville, the caves are accessed off a back road in Renfrew County.

As one of Ontario’s hidden gems , the Bonnechere Caves is a unique geological site. It’s known as one of the world’s best examples of solution caves. This means the caves were created when acidic waters dissolved solid rock.

Discovered in 1955, the caves are named for their location along the Bonnechere River. The river, where the caves are found, is home to a mighty waterfall called Fourth Chute.

The caves are accessed by an engaging guided tour. Before descending into the caves, a guide shares a bit about their intriguing history. Plus, you’ll see fossils that came from the caves.

This geological wonder is a must-see in the Ottawa Valley! As the tour takes you through the damp and narrow passageways of the caves, you’ll learn about how they were formed, found, and are preserved.

After you leave the caves don’t miss the enchanting trail. The trail leads to a massive sinkhole that leads into the caves.

Travel Tip: Please note that the caves are open seasonally, between the May long weekend through September.

Distance from Ottawa – 125km

Time to reach destination – 1.25 hours

Recommended time spent – 2 to 3 hours

Where to eat – Lunch at Granary Schnitzel House Restaurant in Eganville

Another one of the best Ottawa day trips is Morrisburg. Located an hour south of Ottawa, Morrisburg is a great destination because its home to a few of the top attractions in Eastern Ontario.

Situated along the St. Lawrence River, the area is well known for the shipwrecks that lie in its riverbed. Take a dive trip into the waters to see these mighty ships.

The most beloved attraction in Morrisburg is Upper Canada Village. Home to over 40 historic buildings, this living history museum depicts rural life in Canada in the mid-1800s, it’s a must visit.

Upper Canada Village is also where you’ll find one of the best holiday light displays in eastern Ontario , Alight at Night Festival. It takes place every December.

Prehistoric World is another popular place to visit. This fun family-friendly attraction is home to full size dinosaur figures. It’s like visiting Jurassic Park in Ontario!

For fans of the theatre, in Morrisburg there’s the Upper Canada Playhouse. In addition to a summer theatre series, the Playhouse hosts concerts and winter holiday family show.

Distance from Ottawa – 79KM

Time to reach destination – 1 Hour

Where to eat – Orchard Restaurant

Smith Falls

Set along the Rideau Canal, Smith Falls was put on the map when the Canadian Pacific Railway came through town. The population grew quickly thanks to various big-name companies like Hershey’s and Coca Cola.

Nowadays, day trippers will find a variety of things to do in Smith Falls. There’s something to suit everyone’s interests, from hiking to museums.

One of the top attractions in town is the Railway Museum of Eastern Ontario . Home to over 10,000 artifacts, this sprawling museum also has a variety of interesting railcars. One is a stunning 1880’s CN dining car.

Plus, it’s home to some of Ontario’s unique accommodations . There are three different cabooses that visitors can stay in overnight!

Following the train theme, in the former CPR Railway Station there’s the Station Theatre. Along with live performances, the lobby features a small art gallery with art by local artists.

Smith Falls boasts other cultural sites like Heritage House Museum and the Rideau Canal Visitor Centre.

There are two great trails that are ideal for hikers and cyclers. The Smith Falls Heritage Trail runs along the shoreline of the Rideau River. And north of downtown is the start of the Ottawa Valley Recreational Trail.

Distance from Ottawa – 80km

Where to eat – The Lockmaster’s Taphouse

Another picturesque small town along the Saint Lawrence River that’s a must visit near Ottawa is Prescott. Rich in cultural and historic attractions, Prescott has plenty to offer visitors.

The best time to visit Prescott is in the summer. It’s when two of the town’s big festivals take place, St. Lawrence Shakespeare Festival and Upper Canada Folkfest. Plus, there’s also a summer concert series.

Prescott is also home to two National Historic Sites. There’s Fort Wellington National Historic Site and Battle of the Windmill National Historic Site. At the latter you can climb up the stairs within and take in the awesome views.

Wander downtown Prescott to browse fun shops like Olde Magick and check out the clock tower. Downtown is also where you’ll find the Visitor Centre, which is also the Prescott Museum.

Another spot to explore in town is the riverfront. Stroll the Waterfront Trail that runs along the Saint Lawrence River. And check out the lighthouse and harbour.

Close to the harbour is Prescott’s Shakespeare’s Gardens. The beautiful gardens feature flowers and plants that are in Shakespeare’s plays. It’s much like the one in Stratford Ontario .

Distance from Ottawa – 97km

Where to eat – Katarina’s Coffee Shop

One of the best day trips from Ottawa to combine with Bonncherre Cave is the town of Renfrew.

The town of Renfrew is located along the Bonnechere River and has an attractive downtown. Take a wander along Raglan Street to browse the shops and pop into Ottawa Valley Coffee for a latte and snack.

One of the coolest attractions in town is the Renfrew swinging bridge. First built in 1885, the bridge crosses the mighty Bonnechere River. Incredibly, it’s one of only three swinging bridges in Canada!

The views from the bridge are amazing! One of the sights from the bridge is the McDougall Mill Museum. After you’ve walked across the bridge and back, head over to visit the museum.

McDougall Mill Museum is a seasonal museum. It features three floors showcasing the town and area’s history.

Another popular attraction is the NHA/NHL Birthplace Museum. Did you know that the original NHL, the National Hockey Association (NHA), was founded in Renfrew?

At the small museum you’ll see pieces celebrating the founding of the NHA in Renfrew in 1909 as well as other hockey memorabilia.

Distance from Ottawa – 96km

Where to eat – Lunch at Bonnechere Bakery & Bistro

Where the Ottawa River and Madawaska River meet is the charming town of Arnprior. There’s plenty to keep you busy in Arnprior on a day trip from Ottawa.

Downtown Arnprior is full of lovely boutiques like KOTi 28 and antique shops like Treasure Chest. If you’ve got a sweet tooth, there’s also a few bakeries with tasty goodies.

To learn more about the town and its history visit the Arnprior and District Museum. Set in a striking building, it’s home to two floor full of exhibits sharing the story of the town’s lumber industry and more.

Outdoor adventurers will find plenty of fun things to do in Arnprior! Along with a beach and riverside parks, its where the Ottawa Valley Rail Trail becomes the Algonquin Trail.

There are two great places to hike in Arnprior too! One is the Macnamara Nature Trail, which is great for birdwatching and spotting orchids.

On the other side of town is the Gillies Grove Nature Reserve. The park is home to a few short trails and the Gillies Grove and House National Historic Site .

In addition, the nature reserve is one of the last old growth forests in the province with towering white pine trees. One of the trees is the tallest tree in Ontario at 47 metres (154 feet).

Distance from Ottawa – 69km

Time to reach destination – 45 minutes

Where to eat – Krave Bistro

Another cute little town along the Mississippi River that makes a fun and short day trip is Pakenham. Best known for its historic bridge, this village is also home to 2 of the 7 ‘Wonder of Lanark County.’

The Pakenham five span stone bridge is a must see in the area, especially during the fall. With five arches, the bridge is the only one of its kinds in North America.

St. Peter Celestine Church is the other Lanark County wonder in Pakenham. Perched above downtown, it’s a short walk up a hill to see this beauty.

Pakenham is home to a few lovely shops that are worth a visit. Keeper’s Coffee Botanical and Vintage is a magical little shop set in a yellow building close to the bridge. Inside are shelves lined with luscious plants, vintage pieces, and local goods. I recommend grabbing a coffee, made with beans from a local roaster, and a delightful treat.

Another great shop to browse is 1840s General Store & Bakery. And to whet your whistle, head to Cartwright Springs Brewery. Located 5 minutes from downtown, this unique brewery brews beer made with on-site spring fed water.

Plus, if you’re looking for Ottawa day trips in the winter, Pakenham is a solid choice. It’s home to Mount Pakenham Ski Resort that offers beginner runs, snowboarding, tubing, and more.

Distance from Ottawa – 61km

Recommended time spent – 1 to 2 hours

Where to eat – Keeper’s Coffee Botanical and Vintage

If you’re looking for a great day trip for nature lovers then Calabogie is the place to go! Best known for Calabogie Peaks ski resort, its an ideal nature escape any time of year.

One of the most popular times of year to visit Calabogie is winter. Calabogie Peaks ski resort is the tallest in the Ottawa Valley. It’s the perfect place to ski and snowboard near Ottawa. Plus, you can snowshoe the trails and skate on the pond.

I recommend visiting Calabogie during the fall! The four-season ski resort offers chairlift rides to take in the spectacular fall colours.

Calabogie is also home to one of the best Ontario fall hiking trails , Eagles Nest Lookout! There are two ways to hike the trail. One is a short 1.5 km trail leading out to the stunning views. The second is a long 9km loop that connects Manitou Mountain Trail with Eagles Nest Lookout.

In town you’ll find a cute café, Oh-el-la Cafe and Calabogie Brewing Company to refuel at. Plus, for more hiking, or cycling, there’s access to the Kingston and Pembroke Trail. Also known as the K&P Trail, it travels 180km between downtown Kingston and Renfrew.

Distance from Ottawa – 104km

Where to eat – Redneck Bistro

Thousand Islands Region

Between Kingston and Brockville is the Thousand Islands region, which is one of the best Ontario road trips ! The area makes for one of the best day trips from Ottawa too!

The region is best known for the over 1800 islands in the St. Lawrence River. Also, a UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve and National Park, it’s a great destination for outdoor adventurers.

Nature lovers will love all the hiking trails that offer scenic views and dreamy boardwalks, like Langon Bay. Paddling among the islands is another fun activity.

One of the top attractions in the Thousand Islands are their diverse variety of cruises. They range from one to five hours, so if you’re on a day trip you can easily squeeze one in.

Other fun things to do in the region include taking in a show at the theatre and seeing the epic views from the 1000 Islands Tower.

A great town in the region to make your main day trip destination is Gananoque. This charming small town is full of places to eat, shops, and numerous historic sites downtown.

You’ll find plenty of things to do in Gananoque to keep you busy on a day trip. There’s everything from museums to murals.

In addition to being a fun day trip by car, the Via Rail makes trips between Ottawa and Gananoque too.

Distance from Ottawa – 165km

Where to eat – Lunch at Purple House Café – Dinner at Riva

One of the best day trips from Ottawa without a car is Kingston! Both the train and bus are available to travel between Ottawa and Kingston.

Kingston is best known for being home to some of the most haunted places in Ontario . With a rich history, it’s no surprising the ghost stories that come from the city’s historic sites. One of the most popular haunted attractions is Fort Henry National Historic Site.

You can spend a whole day exploring Kingston’s historic sites. Other must visit places include Bellevue House National Historic Site and Fort Frontenac.

If you’re planning on a day trip in October, Kingston is home to some of the best things to do in the fall in Ontario for adults. There are ghost walks and the infamous Pumpkinferno at Kingston Pen.

Also called Limestone City because of its stunning 19th-century buildings, I highly recommend just wandering downtown. You’ll find plenty of fun shops, cute coffee shops like Crave, and incredible architecture.

For those who have visited a few times, there’s a variety of unique things to do in Kingston. There are food tours, unusual art galleries, and so much more.

Kingston is also one of the best Ontario winter getaways for couples . The city is filled with fun winter activities like holiday markets and ice skating. Plus, the magic of the city under a blanket of snow oozes romantic vibes.

Distance from Ottawa – 198 km

Time to reach destination – 2 hours

Where to eat – Lunch at Juniper Cafe – Dinner at Tango Nuevo

Best Day Trips from Ottawa to Quebec

Thanks to its proximity to the border of Quebec some of the best Ottawa day trips are to destinations in the neighbouring province. You can visit everything from bustling cities to dreamy outdoor destinations.

One of the best day trips from Ottawa by train is to Montreal! This dynamic city, is two hours away by Via Rail and has so much to offer day trippers.

Rich with history and culture, one of the coolest attractions in Montreal is free! That’s a climb to the top of Mont Royal to take in the sweeping views of the city.

Montreal is also full of incredible museums! A couple of top ones are the Redpath and Museum of Fine Arts. The city itself is also home to an open-air museum with its copious amounts of street art.

Best known for its Mural Festival, you’ll find murals around every corner. However, the best neighbourhood for street art in Montreal is Plateau Mont Royal.

Another must-do in the city is wander Old Montreal. Filled with streets lined with historic buildings, it’s also home to a few of the best coffee shops in Montreal . Café culture is huge in Montreal.

Also in the heart of old town is Notre Dame Basilica. This striking church has an interior that will wow you! Plus, the basilica is home to a brilliant light show called the Aura that makes the experience even more magical!

Distance from Ottawa – 199km

Time to reach destination – 2.5 hours (2 hours by train)

Where to eat – Lunch at St-Viateur – Dinner at Le Bird Bar

If you’re looking for easy day trips from Ottawa without a car then Gatineau is the place! Located immediately across the river from Ottawa, Gatineau is easy to visit by bus or on foot.

Gatineau is home to Canada’s most popular museum, the Canadian Museum of History . The museum shares a host of exhibits chronicling the culture and history of Canada. It also features an IMAX theatre and a separate Canadian Children’s Museum.

Outdoor enthusiasts will love a day trip to Gatineau from Ottawa! The city is filled with incredible parks like Jacques-Cartier Park. Running along the Ottawa River, this park has trails along the water and is home to various events throughout the year.

A top highlight in Gatineau is Gatineau Park. This sprawling park has plenty to keep you busy exploring for the whole day.

Some of the popular features of Gatineau Park include caves, waterfalls, and the Mackenzie King Estate. It’s also filled with incredible trails, many leading to awesome lookouts.

Distance from Ottawa – Right across the Ottawa River

Time to reach destination – minutes

Recommended time spent – Full day

Where to eat – Le Troquet & Clandestin

Mont Tremblant

Known as one of the best Quebec road trips , Mont Tremblant is a popular destination in the winter. So, if you’re looking for day trips from Ottawa in winter, this is the place to go.

Mont Tremblant is set within the scenic Laurentian Mountains. The ski resort is buzzing when the snow flies but is a four-season destination.

Located on the shores of Lake Tremblant, Mont Tremblant Ski Resort features a charming pedestrian village at its base. It’s home to various restaurants and shops.

For those visiting in the summer, there’s a beautiful lakefront beach in the village. Also along the shores is a lovely boardwalk to stroll.

Other fun things to do include hiking and the Skyline Luge. The Skyline Luge is a fun family friendly activity where you speed down the mountain in single person go-kart-like vehicles.

I think the best time to take a day trip to Mont Tremblant is in the fall! The area is surrounded by brilliant autumn colours. Plus, taking the panoramic gondola, from the village to the peak, offers sweeping vistas of the fall foliage from the cable car.

Distance from Ottawa – 164km

Where to eat – Lunch at La Maison de la Crêpe – Dinner at Le P’tit Caribou

Tips for Planning a Day Trip from Ottawa

There are a few things to consider when planning a day trip. Some of these tips depend on transportation, like if you are travelling by car or train.

• Check for hours of operation. Not everything, especially in small towns is open every day.
• Pack a cooler. If you are travelling by car, pack a cooler to safely bring back food treats.
• Pack for weather. There’s no such thing as bad weather, only bad clothing.
• Allow for travel time. This is a must, especially when day tripping by public transportation.

Frequently Asked Questions about Ottawa Day Trips

A few of the top day trips from Ottawa are Almonte, Perth, Montreal, Carleton Place, and Kingston.

Towns along the Ottawa River are Arnprior, Petawawa, Mattawa, and Hawkesbury.

Ottawa is an easy day trip from Montreal by train or car. Montreal to Ottawa is 2.5 hours by car.

The city across from Ottawa is Gatineau.

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I'm a Canadian gal with a passion for travel, the great outdoors as well as coffee and books. I hope to inspire others to feel the same way! Traveling mostly solo, I love to explore my own backyard of Ontario as well as exotic cities around the world.

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25 Best Day Trips From Ottawa (Under 2 Hour Drive)

Table of Contents

Ottawa is a great city not just for the things you can do in its downtown core, but also for its proximity to so many amazing day trips.

I used a car share service my first year in Ottawa and took so many day trips I was finally convinced to buy my own car so I could go on more. My dog would come with me to adventure on the trails – and meet all the locals in the small towns who always have treats for him.

You’ll find tons of options for activities. If you’re into food, head to Montreal for Schwartz’s Deli. If you want to paddle in the summer, go to Wakefield in Quebec. Love hiking? Take a day trip to Calabogie or Algonquin Park.

You’ll find lots of adventures that can make your visit to Ottawa even more thrilling.

Let’s dive into these Ottawa day trips that cover every season!

1. Calabogie

Distance : 1 hour drive

Calabogie is an excellent one day trip from Ottawa, whether you visit in the summer for the famous hiking or ski the slopes in the winter.

This cottage town is positioned right on an inlet of Calabogie Lake. 

There’s plenty to do in the town, including the most popular hiking trail in Calabogie, the Eagles Nest. 

This 2.7km loop trail brings you to a fantastic lookout point, where you’re treated to panoramic views of the Madawaska Highlands. 

2. Merrickville

Distance : 50 minute drive

Start your day by wandering down St. Lawrence Street, which is the hub of this town.

Drop in to the Merrickville Book Emporium to pick up your next good read, or enjoy home-made fudge at Country Bumpkins while browsing their selection of homewares and gifts. 

In the summer , you can watch boats traveling through the locks along the Rideau River. 

Don’t miss the Merrickville Ruins of an 1844 wool mill. It’s a unique, historic site!

Distance : 55 minute drive

Perth is one of Ontario’s must see small towns located on the River Tay. 

It’s full of Victorian architecture, with over 100 designated heritage buildings.

Perth also has more than 70 boutique shops, restaurants, museums, and specialty shops. 

Don’t miss the award winning Perth Museum and Matheson House, where you can learn about the town’s history. 

If you’re looking to spend some time in nature, rent a canoe or kayak from Perth Major Outfitters to go paddling down the Tay River. 

Or, rent a bike or e-scooter from Heritage Bikes. Bicycling is a great way to get around town, or to explore some of the town’s surrounding trails. 

4. Wakefield

Distance : 30 minute drive

Just a short road trip from Ottawa, Wakefield, Quebec offers year-round entertainment.

Most people come for the  Wakefield Covered Bridge – an icon built in 1915 and the first bridge to link the two shores of the Gatineau River. You walk across and read plaques that share its history. 

For a unique experience, head to Wakefield’s Eco-Odyssee to take a canoe or paddle boat through a maze of waterways that have over 60 intersections.

5. Bonnechere Caves

Distance : 1.5 hour drive

You’ll find the Bonnechere Caves in the town of Douglas, Ontario, right next to the Bonnechere River.

Tours of the caves are an exciting way to spend a hot summer day, and the experience will make you feel like a true adventurer. 

You can go on an educational guided trip through the cave system, seeing cave features like fossils and stalactites. 

One-hour-long guided tours leave every 20 to 30 minutes.  

6. Eastern Townships 

Distance : 3.5 hour drive

The Eastern Townships are a small grouping of cities and towns in the south of Quebec. Highlights of the region are Sherbrooke, and Magog.

In the small city of Sherbrooke you can have traditional afternoon tea at the Uplands Cultural and Heritage Centre , or enjoy a wine tasting at Sherbrooke’s local winery, La Halte des Pèlerins . 

If you’re looking to relax, spend a few hours at the Strom Spa Nordique . 

Magog is a short drive from Sherbrooke. There, you can take a guided tour of Abbaye de Saint-Benoît-du-Lac , or wander the abbey’s beautiful orchards. 

Just outside of Magog you can take in nature by walking the 8.4 kilometers of trails at Marais de la Rivière aux Cerises.

Distance : 25 minute drive 

Chelsea, Quebec is a picturesque Outaouais village that’s a quick drive from downtown Ottawa . 

Enjoy a lunch on the patio at the Chelsea Pub , or have a pastry with coffee at Café Les Saisons Coffee .

Go on the Cave Discovery Tour at Lafléche Park to explore a cave and learn about its history, or hike one of the many trailheads near Chelsea. 

Chelsea is also known for being home to the Nordik Spa-Nature, which is the largest spa in North America . 

The spa has 10 baths and 9 saunas, some indoors and some outdoors. There are several spa treatments available to guests, and the spa also has a great restaurant. 

8. Gatineau Park

Distance : 15 minute drive

Gatineau Park is 361 square kilometers of wilderness that features hiking trails, scenic lookouts, beautiful lakes, and interesting caves.

The provincial park is open year round, making it the perfect Ottawa day trip for any time of year. 

In the winter, head there to cross-country ski, snowshoe, or winter hike. 

In the summer, go there for swimming , cycling, walking and camping. 

Admission to the park is free and outdoor equipment is available to rent.

But some hikes require paid parking in winter.

9. Montreal

Distance : 2 hour drive, or take Via Rail (2 hour train ride).  

Montreal is the largest city in Quebec, and is actually located on a large island in the middle of the St. Lawrence River.

Year round, the city is bustling with an array of events, exhibitions and cultural gatherings. 

You can spend an afternoon wandering Montreal’s different neighborhoods, like the festival-filled Quartier des Spectacles, Saint Henri, which is known for its restaurant culture, and Plateau-Mont-Royal, which is known for its colorful buildings with winding iron staircases.

Be sure to walk through Old Town Montreal to see European-style cobblestone streets. 

10. Morris Island Conservation Area

Distance : 45 minute drive

Morris Island Conservation Area is a 116 acre park on the Ottawa River . 

The park is open year-round. 

With 5 different well marked trails, this conservation area is a fantastic park to spend a day hiking in. 

The park has multiple lookout points that overlook the Ottawa River, making it a great spot to watch the sunrise or sunset. 

For a different experience of the park, bring a paddle board, canoe, or kayak, to paddle around the islands.

11. Almonte

Distance : 35 minute drive

Almonte is a small, former mill town in Lanark County that has a picturesque main street. 

Thanks to the town’s historic buildings, Almonte has become a hot spot for shooting holiday movies. 

Spend a day trip to Almonte exploring the town on foot, hiking through the nearby woods, or learning about the region’s geological history at the Metcalfe Geoheritage Park . 

For a special experience, head to Almonte in June for its VW Bus Festival, BusFusion . 

12. Arnprior

Arnprior is located at the spot where the Madawaska and Ottawa rivers meet.

Start your day trip to Arnprior by visiting the Arnprior and District Museum on Madawaska Street, which covers all aspects of life in an Ottawa Valley town. 

After delving into its history, take some time to wander Arnprior’s streets, and be sure to pop into boutiques like the Gallery Gift Shop to see locally made handicrafts. 

13. The 1000 Islands / Gananoque

Distance: 1.5 hour drive

For an exciting day trip from Ottawa, head to the town of Gananoque, the gateway to the 1000 Islands. 

This region is a hub of outdoor activities, from hiking to watersports.

The 1000 Islands are a group of 1,800+ islands spread out along the St. Lawrence River. Many of the islands have beautiful mansions from the 19th century, when the area was a retreat for the elite. 

On Heart Island you can visit the German-style Boldt Castle , or venture to Dark Island to see the gothic Singer Castle . 

14. Westport

Westport is a quaint village that rests at the west end of Upper Rideau Lake. 

For a small village, Westport has a lot to offer! 

Wander through Westport’s large home decor shop, the Village Green, pop into Vanilla Bean’s Café and Creamery for ice cream, relax at Westport Sand Lake Beach, or have a beer at the Westport Brewing Company . 

Be sure to walk Beaver Trail at the nearby Foley Mountain Conservation Area. The trail delivers gorgeous views of Westport and the lake. 

15. Gatineau/Hull

Distance : 15 minute drive, or 30 minutes by public transport (OC Transpo bus #66).

Hull is a relaxed area of Gatineau which is known for the Canadian Museum of History , the Children’s Museum , and Jacques Cartier Park. 

Jacques Cartier Park stretches along the Ottawa River, providing fantastic views of Ottawa’s Parliament Hill and the cityscape. 

You can also swing by Casino du Lac-Leamy for high end restaurants, entertainment, and gaming, or enjoy a meal at one of Hull’s French bistros, brewpubs, or cafes.

16. Kingston

Distance : 2 hour drive, or take Via Rail (2 hour train trip).

Kingston is known world-wide as the Limestone City because many of its buildings were constructed by carving limestone out of the ground, right where the building was constructed. 

On a day trip to Kingston you can spend an afternoon wandering through the city’s historic center, admiring these heritage buildings. 

Pop into the PumpHouse , a community museum that covers history, science and technology in a 19th-century pumping station. 

You can also go on the Kingston Penitentiary Tour , which takes you into Canada’s oldest and most infamous maximum security prison, which is now a National Historic Site. 

Wrap up your visit by walking Kingston’s waterfront pathway! 

17. Mont Tremblant

Distance : 1 hour 45 minute drive

Mont Tremblant is a small city in the Laurentian Mountains of Quebec. 

It’s most famous as a destination for skiing, because the area has 2 excellent ski hills: Mont Tremblant, which is the highest peak in the Laurentians, and Mont Blanc, which is the second highest peak. 

This is the perfect city to day trip from Ottawa in winter for an afternoon of skiing. 

Skiing isn’t all there is to do!

Swing by the nordic style Scandinave Spa to enjoy their outdoor hot and cold plunge pools, and saunas. 

There’s also lots to do in the summer! 

18. Montebello

Montebello, Quebec is famous for being home to the Fairmont Le Château Montebello , which is one of the world’s largest log structures. 

But there’s much more to see in this village, beyond the hotel! 

Just north of Montebello is Parc Omega , a safari park where you can see animals like deer, bison, and bears from your car. 

You’ll spot these creatures while driving a 12 kilometer route through the wood and along lakes, meadows, and hills. 

19. Morrisburg

Morrisburg is one of Ontario’s historic small towns and home to the popular heritage park, Upper Canada Village . 

The park is a living history museum that captures 19th century settler life in Ontario. 

Here you can explore its 40 authentic historic buildings, many of which were moved to the park for preservation. 

You’ll feel like you’ve been transported back in time to the 1860s. 

You get to learn all about what life in small villages was like at the time, and the people who lived in them. 

If you’re in Morrisburg during summer, swing by Morrisburg beach on the St. Lawrence River. 

This beach has washrooms, water fountains, change rooms, picnic tables and free parking.

20. Algonquin Provincial Park

Distance : 3 hour drive

Algonquin Park is the perfect place to escape to for a day of exploring the outdoors. 

You can spend a lazy afternoon on the beach, or go swimming in one of the park’s gorgeous lakes. 

If you’re up for a hike, go out on one of Algonquin Park’s many trails which range from easy to difficult. My favourite is the Track and Tower Trail.

You can also get out on the water by renting a canoe or kayak from one of the park’s outfitters. 

And be sure to drop by the Algonquin Park Visitor’s Centre and the Logging Museum to learn about this provincial park’s interesting ecology.

21. Renfrew 

Renfrew is east of Ottawa on the Bonnechere River. 

While historically it’s known for its role in the formation of the National Hockey League, today it’s a fun day trip from Ottawa to see Renfrew’s swinging bridge, and discover the area’s craft beer scene. 

The first swinging bridge (suspension bridge) in Renfrew was built in 1885, and the current bridge is a reconstruction, which was completed in 1983. 

You can walk across the bridge for excellent views of the river, and pop into the nearby Mill Museum , too. 

When you’re ready to taste some beer, head to Whitewater Brewing and Square Timber Brewing Company.

22. Aylmer, QC 

Distance : 20 minute drive

Aylmer is a Quebec town that is positioned right on the Ottawa River. 

This small town has a cute main street lined with boutiques like Campbells II , Groovy Moon , and Margarets Fernlea Flowers & Gifts . 

A seasonal farmer’s market is held in Park Commémoratif. 

You’ll also find lots of greenspace in and around Aylmer, like Des Cèdres Park and Parc des Rapides-Deschênes. 

Nearby are many golf clubs nearby, including Rivermead Golf Club .

23. Port Elmsley 

Port Elmsley is a village found en route between Perth and Smiths Falls. 

It’s best known for its famous Port Elmsley Drive-In , an outdoor cinema that’s been in operation since the 1950s. A ticket to the drive-in is good for two movies, and you get to watch them from the comfort of your car or lawn chairs.

An 8 minute drive outside of Port Elmsley is the Rideau Ferry, a picturesque rest stop along the Rideau Canal system. 

Many road and boat travelers drop by this little village and harbor to check out the general store, the few eateries, the marina, and take in views of the Rideau.

24. Bancroft

Distance : 2.5 hour drive

The town of Bancroft is in the York River Valley, on the southern edge of the Canadian Shield. 

It’s the perfect spot to head to if you’d like to enjoy some Ontario nature. 

Silent Lake Provincial Park is just a 15 minute drive outside of Bancroft. 

Start your day in the park, exploring its many kilometers of hiking and mountain biking trails, and taking in views of Silent Lake from the lookout point. 

After enjoying the outdoors, head into Bancroft to check out the Art Gallery of Bancroft , or pick up craft beer from Bancroft Brewing Co .  

25. Bon Echo Provincial Park

Distance : 2.25 hour drive

Bon Echo is a beautiful Ontario Provincial Park known for its lakes and Indigenous pictographs. 

The park is open in summer for hiking, swimming, paddling. 

In the winter, you can head to Bon Echo for snowshoeing the trails and winter hikes. 

In Bon Echo park you’ll find Mazinaw Lake, which is the second deepest lake in Ontario. 

This is where you can see Ontario’s largest collection of rock paintings which are painted in red ochre and show human and animal figures, as well as abstract and geometric symbols. 

More Day Trips Near Ottawa (3+ Hours Drive)

26. Prince Edward County

Prince Edward County is a region known for its many wineries, including Broken Stone Winery , Broken Stone Winery , and Sandbanks Winery .

The area also has a vibrant community of artists and festivals. 

The county is home to Sandbanks Provincial Park, which has some of the most beautiful beaches in Ontario. 

Stop by for a bicycle wine tour or to relax on Dune Beach.

27. Lake Placid

Head across the border to ​​Lake Placid, a village that’s near the lake of the same name. 

Located in New York State’s Adirondack Mountains, Lake Placid is known for having been a Winter Olympics venue. 

Now, it’s a hub for winter sports, hiking, and outdoor activities.

28. Quebec City

Distance : 4.5 hour drive

At over 400 years old, Quebec City is one of the oldest cities in Canada. 

It is the only remaining walled city in North America, and is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site. 

With its cobblestone streets, European architecture and fortifications, and beautiful surrounding nature, Quebec City is a must-see.

29. Toronto

Distance : 4.5 hour drive, or take Via Rail (4 hours)!

Toronto is right on the shore of Lake Ontario, and is packed with things to do. 

See famous sites such as the CN Tower, drop into one of Toronto’s many museums, wander the city’s neighborhoods and parks, and enjoy Toronto’s vibrant food scene. 

If you’d like to be treated to beaches, nature, and gorgeous views of Toronto’s skyline, take the ferry to the Toronto Islands. 

Wrap Up: Best Ottawa Day Trips

Day trips from Ottawa are always easily done because the capital city of Canada is close to so many wonderful Ontario towns, provincial parks, villages, and attractions.

Small towns like Westport, Almonte, Alymer, and Perth are the perfect spots to drive to for boutique shopping, craft beer tasting, and ice cream . Being close to Quebec means from Ottawa you can also access many outdoor activities like hiking in the Eastern Townships, or cross-country skiing in Gatineau Park. 

And if you’re just looking to relax, a sandy beach like Morrisburg beach, and spas like the Nordik Spa-Nature in Chelsea and Strom Spa Nordique in Sherbrooke aren’t too far away. Ready to plan a road trip from Ottawa, but don’t have a car? I’ve got you covered!

Looking to get around Ottawa via car? Find the cheapest car rentals here!

Read More About Ottawa

• Local’s Ottawa Pronunciation Guide: How to Pronounce “Ottawa”
• What is the Primary Language in Ottawa, Canada?
• Is Ottawa in Quebec?
• Is Ottawa tap water safe to drink?
• How to Get From Ottawa Airport to Downtown Ottawa
• Where to Stay in Ottawa: 13 Best Neighbourhoods and Hotels
• Is Ottawa a Province?
• How Many Days in Ottawa is Ideal?
• Best Grocery Stores in Ottawa: Where to Shop in Ottawa
• 71 Fun Facts About Ottawa Canada
• 12 Best Ottawa Hotels With Jacuzzi In Room
• Is Ottawa a Good Place to Live? 27 Pros & Cons
• 22 Best Hotels in Ottawa with Pools
• What is the Drinking Age in Ottawa?
• Is Ottawa Worth Visiting? (Local’s Guide)
• What is Ottawa Known For? 31 Reasons Why Ottawa is Famous
• Ottawa Trip Budget Calculator to Plan Your Dream Trip

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Ottawa Travel Planning Guide

🚑  Should I buy Ottawa travel insurance?

100% YES!  — There’s a misconception that Canada has “free healthcare” for everyone. Nope! Only Canadians. So you’ll need to get travel insurance to visit Ottawa. I recommend this one.

💧 Can you drink the tap water in Ottawa?

Yes – ish  — While you can technically drink the tap water in Ottawa, as a local I don’t recommend it. Old hotels especially can have some nasty things in their pipes. Instead, get a filtered water bottle . ( Read more )

🚙💨  Do I need to rent a car in Ottawa?

Yes  — Renting a car in Ottawa is one of the best ways to get around! You’ll be able to see more of the city and beyond, like the epic hiking trails. I recommend Discover Cars for the cheapest rates possible.

📲  Do I need to know French in Ottawa?

Nope!  — The primary language of Ottawa is English. While French is also spoken and on some signs, you can easily get by without knowing any French. ( Read more )

🏩  What’s the best way to book my Ottawa accommodations?

For Ottawa hotels,  Booking  is the best site. If you’re considering an Ottawa Airbnb, don’t forget to also check  VRBO , which is often cheaper than Airbnb. My #1 hotel recommendation in Ottawa is the Fairmont Chateau Laurier.

✈️  What’s the best site to buy Ottawa flights?

For finding cheap Ottawa flights, I recommend  Skyscanner . You can even set a price alert to find out when flights are on sale.

🎫  Do I need a Visa for Ottawa?

Likely Not  — U.S. and most European Passport holders don’t need a Visa to visit Canada.

📍  Where is Ottawa? And what’s nearby?

Ottawa is the capital city of Canada, located in Ontario. It’s right on the border of Quebec . It’s about 2 hours from Mont Tremblant, 3 hours from Montreal, or 5 hours from Toronto . You can take a road trip to get to other places or fly.

Nina Clapperton is the founder of Ottawa Things to Do. Nina has lived in 18 countries before deciding to settle in Ottawa, nearby Toronto where she grew up. She has spent years proving that Ottawa isn't the town "fun forgot" and helping locals and tourists alike find fun things to do. She helps over 60,000 people a month discover the amazing activities in Ottawa, Canada.

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18 Awesome Day Trips from Ottawa (Under 2 Hours Away) + Maps

One of the best things about Ottawa it’s proximity to other amazing places. There are so many beautiful small towns, outdoor adventures, and nearby cities that make for fun day trips from Ottawa. Winter, summer, and fall many of the small towns and park near Ottawa are beautiful and have different activities and scenery to offer. 

My criteria for a day trip is somewhere that you can drive to (or reach by train, or bus) in under 2 hours. Get an early start, and you can be there before breakfast and enjoy a full day exploring before you head home. I like to spend my summers taking day trips from Ottawa in between exploring Ottawa itself. Here are some of my favourite places!

More Ottawa content:

• The Ultimate Guide To Hiking, Cycling, And Walking Trails In Ottawa
• 12 Ottawa Rooftop And Waterfront Patios To Visit In Summer
• 14 Awesome Day Trips From Ottawa (Under 2 Hours Away)
• 10 Ottawa Date Ideas For Summer 2020

Day Trips from Ottawa

1. merrickville [1 hour from ottawa].

Merrickville is tiny little town less than an hour from Ottawa, and it’s perfect for a relaxing day trip. The main street (St Lawrence) is all independent shops that sell clothes, soaps, garden decorations, and beautiful glass pieces. Merrickville is along the Rideau River, and part way across the bridge from one side to the other is a small island that is home to the Merrickville Ruins. The ruins were once a woolen mill, and today you can explore the ruins and there’s a small museum in the main building.

Don’t miss the Goose & Gridon pub for the perfect Instagram photo opp, or the beautiful Stella Luna location on Main St West. It’s my favourite Stella Luna location, and few people know it’s there! Get yourself a gelato and explore the town.

View on Google Maps

2. Perth [1 hour from Ottawa]

The beautiful little town of Perth, Ontario, is the perfect spot for your next day trip. There is so much to see and do in things historic town, ranging from quirky to adventurous. Discover a Mammoth Cheese that is taller than you, have lunch on a waterfront patio, check out beautiful shops in historic buildings, and visit the Perth Wildlife Reserve or kayak the Tays. Find all of these activities and more, and great foods and restaurant recommendations in my blog post about Things to do in Perth, Ontario .

3. Chutes de Plaisance [40 minutes from Ottawa]

Pack a picnic and go for a drive to one of the best-kept-secrets in the region. Chutes de Plaisance is a massive waterfall only a 40 minute day trip from Ottawa. I was amazed to discover that there was a waterfall this big so close! It is so large that you cannot see the whole thing at once. Explore the waterfall by following trails alongside it and stopping at the three observation points.

There are beautiful picnic areas and washrooms at Chutes de Plaisance. Pack a picnic lunch and enjoy a day there. This is the perfect day trip from Ottawa if you want to enjoy time outside. Day passes are required and can be purchased on arrival.

4. Bonnechere Caves [1.5 hours from Ottawa]

The Bonnechere Caves are an awesome, unique way to spend the day. Most of the day trips from Ottawa in this list are small towns that keep you above ground, so the Bonnechere Caves are a little different! My boyfriend and I went one day, and really enjoyed it. There are interesting fossils to look at before you descend in to the caves, and the caves themselves are incredible. Take a picnic lunch with you or stop in Renfrew afterwards for lunch! There’s not a lot else near the Bonnechere Caves, but they’re still worth the drive. You can crawl through a small tunnel within the caves, and you get to experience the caves in the dark.

The caves are open all summer and you can access them on a guided tour.  Guided tours start every 20 to 30 minutes and are about one hour long. There’s no pre-registration required, just show up. Admission is $19 for adults. It’s cool in the caves, so even if it’s a warm summer day bring a light sweater or jacket. Wear sneakers or running shoes!

Bonnechere Caves temporarily closed due to public health measures. Check before you go.

5. Wakefield [30 minutes from Ottawa]

Wakefield is already one of the most famous day trips from Ottawa, and with good reason. Wakefield is a lovely town in Quebec, so getting there from Ottawa includes a scenic drive through the Gatineau Park. Come for a walk in the town, and to see the red bridge. On warm days in the summer, bring your swimsuit so you can hang out by the water below the bridge.

If you want a relaxing day, the Wakefield Hotel & Spa is located in Wakefield along the Gatineau River.

The best pizza MJMD Pizza de Luigi is some of the best pizza around. It’s handmade in a wood oven, and tastes  amazing . I also highly recommend Pipolinka Bakery for great cookies and Le Hibou for lunch. They have delicious vegetarian and vegan options!

6. Brockville [1 hour 8 minutes from Ottawa]

Small town, unique landmarks, and great waterfront views? Check! Brockville is an amazing day trip from Ottawa if you love small towns but still want some interesting places to see and great activity options. Park near the water and explore the town and the waterfront. Find Canada’s oldest train tunnel, discover the tall ships, or get out on the water yourself with a cruise to the 1,000 Islands or a kayak adventure.

When you are ready for a bite to eat, I recommend Don’s Fish & Chips or The Sweet Little Café. Both places offer meals that you can take with you down to Blockhouse Island, the waterfront area in Brockville that is a perfect place to relax and watch boats go by while enjoying your meal. For more ideas, check out my day trip guide: things to do in Brockville .

7. Morris Island Conservation Area [47 minutes from Ottawa]

Escape the city and enjoy an amazing day in nature at Morris Island Conservation Area. I recommend this day trip from Ottawa if you are looking for a little bit of peace and quiet. Morris Island Conservation Area has trails, picnic areas, calm water for kayaking or paddling, and it feels like you have left the city far behind. Stay for 4 hours with a day parking pass ($6 when I visited – check the website for the most up to date price information). Check out my Day Trip Guide: Morris Island Conservation Area for more details on activities and what to expect.

8. Chelsea [30 minutes from Ottawa]

Day trips from Ottawa to Chelsea are always awesome – it’s the place that I go most often when I feel like being outside the city. The interaction of Chemin Scott and Chemin du Lac Meech is the nicest area. Park at the Gatineau Park Visitor Centre, and go for a short walk along the Sugarbush trail. It’s beautiful all seasons! Come back in to Chelsea and explore the main street, stop for ice cream, or lunch.  Biscotte & Cie is great place for drink and a sandwich or pastry, and La Cigale is one of my favourite ice cream places.

The Nordik Spa is also located in Chelsea, and it’s a the perfect place for a relaxing day no matter the season. I’ve visited the Nordik Spa in both the summer and winter , it’s always amazing.

9. Gatineau Park [20 minutes from Ottawa]

Love hiking and the great outdoors? Of course you do – and how could you not with a view like this. Gatineau Park is just across the river from Ottawa. Those of us who call Ottawa home are so incredibly fortunate to live next to this amazing place, it’s so close and so much considered to be like a part of Ottawa that putting it on a day trips from Ottawa list might even be a stretch! Hike, cycle, or make your way to Meech Lake and enjoy the beach.

There are hiking trails for every one in Gatineau Park, no matter the level or difficult that you want.  Use this guide to the Gatineau Park Trails to find your next hike!

10. Montreal [2 hours from Ottawa]

Montreal is one of the most interesting cities in Canada. There is so much history, and so many beautiful places to discover! Montreal is only 2 hours away, and you can have any day trip experience you want here whether it’s spending a day in the botanical gardens, eating in Mile End, visiting museums, or exploring Old Montreal! Or, even roller coaster. La Ronde is a fun amusement park day trip.

I have several Montreal guides to help you plan your day trip (or a longer visit to Montreal!)

View on Google Maps.

11. Calabogie [1 hour from Ottawa]

Calabogie is a bit of day trip gem, so this one stays between you and me! There aren’t many day trips from Ottawa that are well-kept secrets… but this one is. My friends and I drove to Calabogie Peaks Resort to hike Skywalk Trail to Eagle’s Nest Lookout. There are a lot of different trails that connect together, so you can take as long (or as short) a route as you want to Eagle’s Nest. 

After your hike, relax at the beach by the resort with some snacks and drinks. There are only a few food options on site, so bring your own food. We didn’t kayak, but there are kayaks available for rent too and the lake is beautiful and calm! Calabogie is a popular ski destination in the winter, but most people don’t know what a lovely place it is in the summer.

Here’s the full guide on hiking to Eagle’s Nest and enjoying a day in Calabogie!

12. Almonte [1 hour from Ottawa]

Almonte is a lovely mill town along the Canadian Mississippi River. I went on a day trip from Ottawa to Almonte last summer and surprised by how many great cafés and cute shops there are! And, there’s an amazing waterfall going through the middle of the town. Walk the River Walk from Heirloom Cafe & Bistro to Almonte town hall to see it.

The inventor of basketball, James Naismith, was born and raised just outside of Almonte and you will find a statue of him in town too!

13. The 1000 Islands [1.5 hours from Ottawa]

The 1000 Islands is an exceptional destination for a day trip from Ottawa. Only 1.5 hours away, 1000 Islands has everything from adventurous activities to relaxing patios. On a day trip, take a boat tour in the 1000 Islands and spend some time exploring the town of Gananoque. Enjoy a view from above at the 1000 Islands Tower, or go hiking at one of the many trails in the area. 

This is easily one of my favourite places that I have ever visited. If you  haven’t  already visited the 1000 Islands, make it your next day trip! Check out my full 1000 Islands Visitor Guide  for a detailed itinerary and restaurant recommendations.

14. Westport [1.5 hours from Ottawa]

Westport is one of my favourite small towns, mainly because of the amazing view from above that you can see from Foley mountain. There is a wonderful, family run vineyard just outside of town and the few bakeries and restaurants in town (it’s a really small place!) are all really good. This is one of the quainter day trips from Ottawa, perfect if you want a relaxing day.

Spend the morning exploring the hiking trails on Foley mountain, and the afternoon exploring the town and visiting a nearby vineyard. Check out my blog post of t hings to do in Westport .

15. Gatineau [10 minutes from Ottawa]

Gatineau is just across the river – it’s so close that it blends right in to Ottawa so while this isn’t a day trip that requires driving, it is one if you haven’t yet explored Gatineau! The Culture Trail was introduced in 2018, and it’s a great way to see the area. Follow the red line from Jacques Cartier Park and it will take you all through Gatineau. 

Make sure to take the detour onto Laval Street to see the beautiful Gatineau umbrella street. There are plenty of great patios here to stop for a drink. The trail is 2km long and will lead you along the Ruisseau de la Brasseurs, to a restaurant called Les Brasseurs du Temps. The beer is excellent, and this restaurant has a lovely patio. Best of all, there’s an amazing (and massive) museum in the basement that goes all through the history of beer in Canada.

16. Kingston [2 hours from Ottawa]

Kingston makes a great day trip from Ottawa for summer. Kingston is a city with lots of history. Make sure to book your  penitentiary tour  in advance.  The penitentiary was at one time home to some of Canada’s most notorious criminals and today offers guided tours that are very popular.

Other things to check out include Fort Henry, built during the war of 1812. One hour guided tours depart regularly. For another bit of history, hop aboard a   Trolley Tour . I’ve heard that Chez Piggy or Wooden Heads Gourmet Pizza or great places for lunch!

17. Mont Tremblant [2 hours from Ottawa]

Here’s another popular winter destination that is also a summer gem – Mont Tremblant ! Truth be told, a lot more people know about Tremblant than Calabogie but it’s still less popular in the summer than in the winter.

Mont Tremblant is one of the best, multi-season day trips from Ottawa. Go to Tremblant for skiing, snowshoeing, and cozy cafés in the winter. Come summer enjoy hiking, luge rides down the mountain, cycling, and exploring. The best part about Mont Tremblant is the pedestrian village. It’s easy to walk around, without having to worry about cars! It’s also a very dog friendly area, so bring your fur friend for the day.

If you’re visiting in the summer, Mont Tremblant National Park is a must-visit. It’s got stunning scenery and hiking trails with all different levels of difficult – from kick jaunts to a waterfall to long treks to breathtaking lookouts.

18. Omega Park [1 hour from Ottawa]

Truth be told, I think that Omega Park is mentioned in every Ontario or Quebec blog post that I have. I  love this place. Omega Park makes a great day trip, or you can stay the night ! Omega Park is another one of the all-season day trips from Ottawa, it’s stunning summer or winter . 

Omega Park entry is just under $30 per person. Get there right when it opens (usually 10 AM) and drive the loop. In the summer, you can take a wagon ride out to the farm. Come winter, enjoy a sleigh ride through the snow. 

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12 short and sweet road trips from Ottawa that aren't just to Montreal

T he call of the open road is hard to resist, especially as summer comes into full swing. Fortunately, if you're looking for a short road trip from Ottawa , there are plenty of reasons to explore the backroads of the beautiful Ottawa Valley.

If you're tired of heading to Montreal every time you get a craving for a quick getaway, know that it's only one out of many excellent options. Eastern Ontario and the Outaouais and Laurentides regions of Quebec are home to some really picturesque landscapes that make for a gorgeous summer drive, and there are a lot of destinations along the way that are the perfect summer getaway from Ottawa .

Between the largest waterpark in the country, a cheese factory, a Cold War-era nuclear bunker and a wide selection of charming historic towns, there are plenty of places that are worth the quick road trip from Ottawa.

Here are 12 suggestions for the next time you're itching to get behind the steering wheel and head out on the open road.

Mont-Tremblant

www.instagram.com

Address: Mont-Tremblant, QC

Why You Need To Go: Roughly two hours from Ottawa and embedded within the Laurentian Mountains of Quebec is the mountainside resort town of Mont-Tremblant, which has the quaint vibe of a European village.

Mont-Tremblant is perfect to visit any time of the year. Whether you want to ski in the snowy season, hike up to gorgeous views of the colours of autumn, watch the blooms of spring or enjoy the shops, beaches and concerts in the summer, you'll be blown away by the scenic beauty.

Mont-Tremblant website

Long Sault Parkway

Address: Long Sault Parkway, South Stormont, ON

Why You Need To Go: Only an hour's drive outside of Ottawa are 11 tiny, picturesque islands on the St. Lawrence River that are all nicely tied together by the scenic Long Sault Parkway.

You can take a scenic drive, go camping in one of the many island campgrounds, or just go for a beach day with the squad. No matter how long you stay, it's worth the drive for the breathtaking views alone.

St. Lawrence Parks website

Calypso Theme Waterpark

Price: $52.99 to $64.99 per adult

Address: 2015 Calypso St., Limoges, ON

Why You Need To Go: Looking for a way to beat that Ottawa Valley heat? Only 30 minutes outside the capital is Canada's largest waterpark! Calypso is filled to the brim with all sorts of aquatic attractions that make it worth spending the entire day splashing around.

Calypso has 35 waterslides of all different varieties, 100 water games to choose from, and not one but two theme rivers, not to mention the largest wave pool in the country. It's a great way to spend a day with friends, family or that special someone.

Going on a weekday is highly recommended as a way to beat the crowds. Calypso Theme Waterpark officially opens for the 2024 season next Saturday, June 15.

Calypso Waterpark website

Address: Kingston, ON

Why You Need To Go: Did you know that Kingston was once the capital of Canada? This beautiful lakeside city lies only a two-hour drive from Ottawa. You can check out a historic military fort, tour Canada's oldest maximum-security prison or shop along the beautiful and vibrant Princess Street in Kingston's downtown.

There's plenty to get up to in Kingston, which is why it's perfect for a little weekend getaway. Sprinkled all throughout town are some truly amazing and tasty restaurants that offer all different kinds of cuisine.

No matter whether you're looking for a romantic getaway, a quick family vacation or a patio-hopping weekend with friends, Kingston will have something for you.

Visit Kingston website

Bonnechere Caves

Price: $22 per adult

Address: 1247 Fourth Chute Rd, Eganville, ON

Why You Need To Go: Did you know that there's an explorable cave system only an hour and a half from Ottawa? It's true! This unique experience is available by guided tour only, which you can do during the summer months.

Bonnechere Caves even hosts some intimate concerts throughout the summer and various other events that they publicize on their website. This is a geological beauty, and definitely worth the short drive to go check it out.

Bonnechere Caves website

Algonquin Provincial Park

Address: Highway 60, Algonquin Provincial Park, Unorganized South Nipissing District, ON

Why You Need To Go: Bask in the great wilderness in Ontario's oldest provincial park! Algonquin Park is a scenic three-hour drive from the city and is perfect for anyone who loves nature, wildlife, camping, hiking and watersports.

You can explore over 7,600 square kilometres of open wilderness and gaze in awe at the rocky ridges, wooded hills, lakes and rivers. Algonquin Park is worth the visit no matter what time of year it is, as each season brings a whole different world of beauty and scenery.

Ontario Parks website

Address: Brockville, ON

Why You Need To Go: Only an hour's drive from Ottawa, nestled along the St. Lawrence River, is the charming, quiet city of Brockville, Ontario. This riverside town is a true hidden gem in Ontario, filled with historic buildings and all kinds of restaurants and situated at the eastern end of the 1000 islands.

Brockville is perfect for those wanting an escape from the hustle and bustle of the big city. Whether you want to go on a river cruise through the islands or just take a stroll through the city's picturesque downtown, you'll have a nice relaxing time.

Brockville Tourism website

Diefenbunker

Price: $18.50 per adult

Address: 3929 Carp Rd., Carp, ON

Why You Need To Go: Ever wanted to see the inside of a Cold War-era underground nuclear bunker? You've got to head over to the Diefenbunker, which is about a 30-minute drive from Ottawa's downtown core.

Explore the nuclear bunker where the 1960s federal government would have sought refuge in the event of a nuclear strike. You can traverse the four-storey bunker on a guided tour or brave it on your own while learning about the Cold War in Canada.

The Diefenbunker even houses the world's largest escape room, which is over 25,000 square feet!

Diefenbunker website

Smiths Falls

Address: Smiths Falls, ON

Why You Need To Go: Smiths Falls is another quaint town just an hour outside of Ottawa that's bursting with charm and jam-packed with historic buildings.

You can ride a steam-engine locomotive, visit one of many restaurants, check out the Smiths Falls portion of the Rideau Canal, or get spooky with a paranormal tour. Whatever you want to do, Smiths Falls will surely have something to keep you entertained and enamoured.

Smith Falls website

Gatineau Park

Address: 33 Ch. Scott, Chelsea, QC

Why You Need To Go: Located only a quick 15-20 minute drive from downtown Ottawa are the rolling hills and scenic lakes of Gatineau Park, the second-most visited park in Canada and the largest in the National Capital Region.

Check out old historic ruins, the country estate of a former prime minister, a cave, waterfalls and many other scenes of nature sprinkled all throughout this 361-square-kilometre park.

Gatineau Park is perfect for hiking, biking, canoeing and swimming, and if you're looking to extend your stay off the grid, there's canoe camping available at La Pêche Lake.

NCC website

Address: Wakefield, QC

Why You Need To Go: Only a 30-minute drive from Ottawa is the quaint little Québécois town of Wakefield. You can go horseback riding through tall-grass fields, take a pedalboat ride through nature, or just enjoy the many historic buildings Wakefield has to offer.

One of Wakefield's best-known landmarks is the iconic red Wakefield Covered Bridge over the Gatineau River. Originally built in 1915, the beautiful Instagram-worthy bridge is a neat-looking attraction that's worth checking out.

If you're looking to turn your day trip into a weekend getaway, the Wakefield Mill is a cozy, charming hotel housed in a converted 19th-century flour mill surrounded by nature and the La Pêche River, complete with a tasty restaurant and relaxing spa.

Destination Wakefield website

St-Albert Cheese Factory

Price: Free admission

Address: 150 St. Paul St., St-Albert, ON

Why You Need To Go: If you're a poutine fanatic or just a lover of cheese, the 45-minute road trip to the St-Albert Fromagerie is 100% worth the drive. You can devour some tasty poutine with the freshest cheese curds you've ever had, grab all sorts of dairy products, and watch St-Albert's signature cheese curds get made!

The St-Albert Cheese Factory has been around since 1894 and has been an absolute cheese-making powerhouse in Eastern Ontario ever since. If you've ever had a cheese curd in Ottawa — or even anywhere in Ontario, for that matter — chances are good that it was made here.

This is a perfect destination for a quick little road trip for those times that you want to get out of the city but only have a few hours.

St-Alberts Fromagerie Website

Before you get going, check out our Responsible Travel Guide so you can be informed, be safe, be smart, and most of all, be respectful on your adventure.

How To Spend One Day In Ottawa: An Itinerary For First-Time Visitors

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Got One Day in Ottawa? Here’s What To Do, See, Eat, and Drink!

Interested in exploring Ottawa but a little short on time? Whether you’re visiting Ottawa on a day trip from Kingston , have a stopover flight, or are spending a day and a night in the city passing through, we’ve got you covered!

We really like Ottawa and – having explored the city many times now – we have a pretty good idea of what a first-time visitor might be looking for if they are exploring Ottawa in a day.

There are top attractions like ByWard Market and Parliament Hill, plenty of activities and museums to visit, lesser-known places to eat and drink, and much more.

So, here’s our version of an Ottawa day itinerary (for both the summer and winter seasons)!

Oh, and if you are staying one night, check out the ByWard Blue Inn or The Business Inn . Both are very popular accommodations in good, central areas.

Ottawa Tour Options

Being the capital of Canada, Ottawa is a popular destination to explore. Luckily, there are several tour options to help you discover Ottawa in different ways!

• Ottawa Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour
• 2-Hour Express Sights Bike Tour
• Ottawa Brewery Tour (via Bus)
• Ultimate Ottawa Sightseeing Tour (w/ Canal Cruise)

Table of Contents

Breakfast at Wilf and Ada’s

Address: 510 Bank St, Ottawa, ON K2P 1Z4, Canada

Alright – so it’s breakfast time in Ottawa. You’re going to need a  big  breakfast to fuel up for this day. 

We got up from our accommodation in Centretown, did a quick Google search, and walked right to Wilf and Ada’s . We are very, very glad we did!

This tiny diner near Highway 417 is on Bank Street, so it’s really easy to get to from downtown.

Inside, we found a small diner that was already packed (it was like 9 am on a weekday!). Luckily, we were only two people, so we got seated at what was the last table. 

The menu is really good – with brunch classics that are sweet and savoury to meet all tastes. Eric had a Classic Breakfast with eggs, bacon, sausage, beans (and more) while Lisa had an Eggs Benedict Florentine.

She HIGHLY recommends hers if you go because she really liked it. The server was also super nice, so that’s always a plus!

In any case, head there for breakfast – coffee was a free refill and the food was delicious!

Getting Around Ottawa The city of Ottawa is pretty spread out, but the best attractions are basically all within walking distance close to downtown (a few exceptions apply). Also, the city is relatively flat – with hillier areas if you walk down towards the Ottawa River from Wellington Street or if you walk down to ByWard Market from Parliament Hill.  You can check out the  Ottawa Transport (OC Transpo) website  for city buses and look into different rates. They have a day ticket available if you want to rely on the bus. Cycling is also an option – bike rentals are available and popular in the warmer months. We wouldn’t recommend using a car to get around Downtown as parking and re-parking would be a hassle.

Morning Activities: Explore Canadian History, Culture, and Art

Okay, so once you are done with breakfast, it’s time to head back downtown along Bank Street. Basically, walk as far as you can and you’ll hit Parliament Hill.

This is where we started the morning – and we basically checked out the following attractions/hot spots downtown or close to downtown. Read below for the things that we got up to – all before lunchtime!

Parliament Hill

Address: 111 Wellington St, Ottawa, ON K1A 0A4

Of course we visited Parliament Hill first thing so that we had enough time. As the centre of Canadian politics, the whole area is full of history and things to see.

We actually visited right after Canada Day, so they were just disassembling the stage from the concerts and celebrations.

In any case, there is a lot to see on Parliament Hill such as the Centennial Flame and many statues.

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We also walked behind the Centre Block along a pathway that gives you great views of the Ottawa River and other attractions below.

Even though renovations were happening all around, that path was still open to freely enjoy so be sure to do so.

You get great shots of the Library of Parliament – the historic circular structure at the rear of the Centre Block. It’s stunning to look at!

The buildings on Parliament Hill are the Centre Block with the clock tower called the “Peace Tower” and then the East and West Blocks flanking the middle building.

You can tour the buildings – but they are currently under extensive renovations for many years so the tours are all moved around. 

If you want to learn more about Canadian politics and history, you can check out the updated tour schedule here . Tours of the Senate and House of Commons are free but must be reserved in advance.

National War Memorial

Address: Wellington St, Ottawa, ON K1P 5A4, Canada

We walked down from Parliament Hill down Wellington Street towards the top of Elgin Street.

Here you’ll find the famous Locks of the Rideau Canal. We only took a quick photo of them because we explored them later in the day but you could check them out now.

Instead, we headed to the square across from the Locks to the large monument that you cannot miss.

This is the National War Memorial – a tribute to those Canadians who have served in armed conflicts. It also includes the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.

It’s interesting to look at and a quiet, respectful place – we even caught it at a time when the guards were changing their posts.

To the south of the memorial, you can find Confederation Park – a large green space by the Rideau Canal.

It was a nice place to relax because we were waiting for our tour which started in the area!

Lady Dive Amphibus Tour

Address: Lady Dive leaves from 44 Sparks St., Ottawa, ON K1A 0R7

The next thing we did was a guided tour – but not just any tour: the Lady Dive “Duck Boat” Tour !

Yes, we went on the tour that drives you around on land and then drives into the water and becomes a boat tour!

We actually bought our tickets online beforehand but they have a booth close to the pick-up/drop-off so it would be easy to just show up.

The tour itself was actually really fun – the live guide spoke in both English and French and pointed out many attractions.

If you’ve never been to Ottawa before, it’s a great tour for orientating yourself.

We then crossed into Quebec on the tour and drove into the Ottawa River – which was such a strange feeling but completely safe!

Exploring Ottawa from the water was a different perspective that you can’t get many other ways so we liked that, too. Kids on the tour got to take a photo with the captain which made for a fun atmosphere.

After a big loop, the boat left the water and became a bus again and we got to see places further out like Rideau Hall. Overall we’d recommend the Lady Dive Boat Tour for the experience.

We also decided to do a morning tour as it was not as hot yet. This ended up being a good decision.

If you want to explore the Ottawa River on a tour, but the Lady Dive doesn’t sound like something for you, you can also take a regular boat cruise with Capital Cruises .

This tour boat leaves from the bottom of the Locks down at the river level so it’s easy to get to/find from downtown.

We actually passed this boat while we were on our tour and it looked like a nice boat (see above).

Sparks Street

Location: 45°25’23.8″N 75°41’47.1″W

Once we got off the Lady Dive Tour, we were already getting hungry so we walked towards lunch through Sparks Street.

Sparks Street – fun fact – is considered the oldest pedestrian mall in Canada.

It crosses the whole downtown core from west to east (sort of) and is loaded with shops, stalls, restaurants, souvenirs, etc to check out.

Lisa bought postcards here to send to family – so wander through and see what you can find!

Lunch: The SconeWitch on Elgin

Address: 150 Elgin St, Ottawa, ON K2P 1L4, Canada

We only walked for about 10 minutes max from where we got off the tour before we got to lunch. Remember, everything in the downtown core is pretty close together.

Lunch was at another place we looked up online that had great reviews: The SconeWitch on Elgin.

Known for making their own scones and other fresh items, we went on an Ottawa workday just after 12:00 pm. It was BUSY – but the line moved surprisingly fast!

As for food, SconeWitch was awesome. We got one “SconeWitch”- it was with goat cheese and was really, really good.

We also got an iced coffee and a hibiscus iced tea – both of which were also great. We’d recommend checking it out for a lighter lunch that still fills you up.

Afternoon Activities: Explore Gatineau/The ByWard Market Area

Alright, so now it’s the afternoon – what do you get up to now? It was a hot summer day when we visited, so we decided to stay in the shade as much as possible and/or explore the water.

Since we had already seen the Parliament Hill area, we decided that the afternoon should be dedicated to the ByWard Market area and perhaps maybe some museums across/near the Ottawa River.

Here’s a handful of things we checked out and stuff that you might also be interested in adding to your one-day itinerary!

Rideau Canal/Bytown Museum

Address: 1 Canal Ln, Ottawa, ON K1P 5P6, Canada

One of the most famous sites in all of Ottawa (and Canada for that matter) is the Rideau Canal.

The Rideau Canal – and the Ottawa Lockstation (shown above) – are Ontario’s only UNESCO Heritage Site for the category of “Culture”.

The whole waterway is over 200 km long and stretches all the way to Lake Ontario in Kingston!

In Ottawa, stretches of the waterway are great for boating in the summer and it turns into the famous ice skating rink in the wintertime .

Close to the Ottawa River entrance to the Locks, you’ll find the  Bytown Museum , which takes visitors through the history of Ottawa as it developed over the decades!

If you want to cross the river and head to the Canadian Museum of History in Hull/Gatineau, you could do so at this point.

To get there, you can walk across the bridges – but if you are already at the Locks, you might want to take the water taxi to Gatineau.

Tickets are cheap and it’s an eco-friendly way to get across (it has an electric motor)! You can check schedules and prices on their website .

If you don’t want to head for the Museum of History, then you can just walk to the National Gallery of Canada (see both below) on the same side of the river as you are now. You’ll still have more than enough to keep you busy.

Canadian Museum of History

Address: 100 Laurier St, Gatineau, QC K1A 0M8, Canada

Across the river from the Locks and Parliament Hill, you’ll find one of the most famous museums in all of Canada – the Canadian Museum of History.

This museum is huge, features a massive Grand Hall with incredible works by Indigenous Peoples, and walks visitors through over 20,000 years of Canadian human history!

We didn’t get a chance to visit on this trip but Eric went years ago and we want to go back next time. If you want to visit, you can  get your Museum of History ticket here . 

National Gallery of Canada

Address: 380 Sussex Dr, Ottawa, ON K1N 9N4, Canada

If you don’t want to cross the river, you can also check out the National Gallery of Canada.

Known for the beautiful glass structures and the very large spider out front, you can see loads of Canadian art inside!

The Gallery has an inner courtyard and a cafe onsite. If you want to visit, make sure you have a few hours to spare!

It’s also a great place to visit if it’s too hot out or too cold in the winter! Here is the  official website to learn more .

ByWard Market

Address: 55 Byward Market Square, Ottawa, ON K1N 9C3

After you finish up at the Gallery, a final area that you have to explore in Ottawa (if you are only around for a day) is ByWard Market.

If you are staying late, you can have dinner here and even go out for drinks here, so don’t worry if you don’t visit during the day. 

That said, ByWard Market is full of things to do, see, eat, and drink at all hours of the day!

The market area is packed with bars, restaurants, and shops that surround the original Market Building – which has a few food places and shops itself.

In the summer, stalls fill some streets and sell everything from fresh produce to flowers.

We wandered around and ended up stopping for a drink at one of the many bars in the area  (El Furniture Warehouse). You could have a sweet treat and opt for a “BeaverTail” which is deep-fried dough covered in sugar and more!

In any case, you can just hang out in ByWard for a little bit and take in the sights and sounds, do some window shopping, eat something, and even have a beverage. Up to you!

Afternoon Break: High Tea at The Chateau Laurier

Address: 1 Rideau St, Ottawa, ON K1N 8S7, Canada

Now that you’re done with the main part of your afternoon wander, you might need a break.

You can stay in ByWard Market for longer and have a beer or a sweet treat – or you can have a truly Ottawa experience: Afternoon Tea at the Chateau Laurier! (If high tea is not for you, then skip to the next section.)

This historic hotel is an Ottawa landmark and a very popular place to stay , too. That said, it’s also known for its food/dining experiences – and Zoe’s Lounge is where you head for a lovely high tea experience. Tea, sweets, mini sandwiches – what’s not to like?!

It’s important to book a table online in advance – especially for afternoon tea since it can fill up. You can learn more about tea and reservations at Zoe’s Lounge here .

Early Evening Activity: Explore Major Hill’s Park

Address: 1223 Alexandra Bridge, Ottawa, ON K1N 9N4, Canada

Once you’re done at Afternoon tea (or in ByWard Market), there’s one more place you should visit because of the amazing views: Major’s Hill Park.

You could even have a drink at Tavern on the Hill which is located here.

Our local buddy said that we had to stop by and we are very glad we did. The park was a great way to rest for a bit before walking over to where we were having dinner. 

We went to the park at the end of our day but didn’t have a drink since we had just had a beer in ByWard.

In any case, you come here for the views over the river and the setting sun (depending on the time of year).

You COULD also just have dinner here if you wanted to. Check out the website for  hours and menus for Tavern on the Hill here .

Dinner at the Aulde Dubliner & Pour House

Address: 62 William St, Ottawa, ON K1N 7A3, Canada

Now it’s dinner time – and you must be pretty hungry given that you’ve covered quite a bit of ground today!

For dinner, we headed back into ByWard (wasn’t far from the last stop) and went to the Aulde Dubliner & Pour House.

This classic Irish pub is huge and beautiful from the outside. We got a patio table overlooking the main part of ByWard Market which was so nice.

The server was super friendly, the beer/drinks were local so that was nice to try, and our food (burgers and salmon grilled sandwich) were all really good.

If you aren’t in the mood for pub-style food, there are lots of other restaurants in the area. That said, the menu did have other non-pub food items! You can check the menu and hours for the Aulde here .

Evening: Drinks, Live Music or Evening Tour

Alright, so it’s the evening now and if you are still in Ottawa looking to round out the day, you’ve got options!

For this post, we wanted to provide you with a handful of options to match all interest levels.

So, at the end of the day in Ottawa, you just have to stay in the ByWard Market area for the famed Ottawa nightlife. However, you’ve got options for what you want to do: a night tour, live music, or rooftop terrace drinks.

Ottawa Night Tour

If you have a bit of explorer energy left, you might consider hopping on an Ottawa tour by night .

This tour starts at 6:30 pm so be sure to have dinner before but then you have the rest of your evening planned with a cruise, a light show, and more!

Live Music at Heart & Crown

Address: 67 Clarence St, Ottawa

If live music is your thing, head into the heart of ByWard where there’s music (pretty much) every night!

The Heart and Crown is a very lively Irish pub with loads of seating and a great atmosphere – whatever the night of the week.

Eric has been there for drinks and music and it was super fun. You can check out who is playing on their website . They have live music every single night from 10 until close basically. 

Rooftop Terrace Drinks at the Andaz

Address: 325 Dalhousie St, Ottawa, ON K1N 7G1, Canada

Finally, if you just want to sit, relax, and have a nice drink with a stunning view, then you should head to the top of the Andaz Hotel.

Here, you’ll find the famous terrace bar called Copper Spirits and Sights. Known for the views overlooking Ottawa towards Parliament Hill, a great cocktail menu, and the occasional live DJ, the Andaz is definitely a place to be in the evening.

You can book a table and learn more on their website .

Related Articles

We love exploring Ottawa – so check out our other Ottawa posts to help you plan:

• Great Things to Do in Ottawa (for All Seasons)
• Where to Stay in Ottawa – Hotels and Best Areas
• Toronto to Ottawa: All Ways
• 13 Ottawa Pubs and Bars (As Told by a Local)
• Day Trips from Ottawa (+ Directions)

And there you have it, our sample itinerary for one day in Ottawa. In the end, it’s impossible to see everything in Ottawa in one day – but you can definitely plan your visit to see lots of great attractions.

This itinerary covers lots of the things that we did during our time in Ottawa and we had a blast. Let us know what you get up to – we’d love to add great activities to this Ottawa itinerary!

As always, Keep Exploring, eh? – E&L

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Eric Wychopen

Hi, we're Eric and Lisa - an Ontario-born Canadian and a German! After settling in Ontario together, we realized that there is lots more to explore in this beautiful Canadian province! On Ontario Away, we as well as local contributors cover everything from cities and hikes to wineries, attractions, accommodations, and more.

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Here Are 7 Unique Day Trips In Idaho That Are An Absolute Must-Do

Super-rad musician, scholar, photographer, and traveler. The Mountain West and larger PNW = home, but can be found wherever there's adventure.

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While extended road trips over weekends are always an adventure, sometimes a long excursion simply isn’t possible. Instead, a quick day trip or outing with the family is your destiny. So instead of obsessively planning, forget about those other complicated vacations and hit the road to enjoy these quick, easy, and inexpensive day trips from nearly every major city. Or, mini-vacays, if you will. If you’ve ever Googled “road trips near me in Idaho”, today’s your lucky day!

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Do you want to make your day trip last even longer? Take this historic road trip or check out this unique backcountry drive . Have any ideas for more ultimate road trips in Idaho? Tell us about them in the comments!

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

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Road trips in idaho near me.

What are some of the best road trips in Idaho I can take?  

You know, Idaho gets a lot of flak. People refer to it as a “flyover” state, which implies that it’s boring -- and that notion couldn’t be further from the truth. There’s plenty to do – especially if you’re a lover of the open road like we are. Basically, if you can dream it, you can probably drive it. You can spend time traveling the Magruder Corridor, which is a beautiful, scenic drive you’ll never forget. You can drive the famous “road to nowhere” or make a whole thing out of visiting the most haunted places in the state. We also suggest making a whole trip out of Idaho’s spectacular waterfalls. If you’d like more inspiration for the best road trips in Idaho,  take a peek at this list .   

Where are the must-visit places in Idaho?   

There are several places that come to mind as definitive, iconic “must-do” activities. For instance, it’s imperative that you visit the incredible Shoshone Falls as soon as you can (if you haven’t already). Explore a dormant volcano at Craters of the Moon National Monument, where you’ll have an out-of-this-world fun experience. You won’t believe the surreal beauty on display at Sawtooth National Recreation Area, and Twin Falls is a wonderful place to come to on a hot summer day. Lake Coeur d'Alene, in northern Idaho, is also a must-see – and don’t forget to bring a camera! These locations are all ridiculously photogenic, and we’re sure you’ll fall in love with them as quickly as we did.   

Where can I find unique attractions in Idaho?  

Believe it or not, Idaho is a state with plenty of unique and otherwise oddball attractions to check out in your spare time. You can explore any number of the interesting (and a bit eerie) ghost towns all over the state, like Custer ghost town, near Stanley, and Burke ghost town, near Wallace. It wouldn’t be Idaho without a museum dedicated entirely to the potato, and Blackfoot, Idaho, has that taken care of. You can also sleep in a giant potato in Boise. In Arco, Idaho, you’ll find the world’s first-ever nuclear power plant. And did you know the center of the universe is a manhole in Wallace? Well, at least they think so...

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PGA Tour reports ‘progress’ without details in meeting with Saudi wealth fund leaders

By Doug Ferguson, The Associated Press

Posted Jun 8, 2024 09:47:18 AM.

Last Updated Jun 8, 2024 09:54:09 AM.

The PGA Tour reported progress without details from a face-to-face meeting between its negotiating committee and the Public Investment Fund of Saudi Arabia as it tries to work toward a deal.

“We want to get this right, and we are approaching discussions with careful consideration for our players, our fans, our partners and the game’s future,” the tour said in a statement released Saturday morning.

The meeting in New York on Friday evening involved the “transaction committee” of PGA Tour Enterprises and Yasir Al-Rumayyan, the governor of the Saudi Arabian sovereign wealth fund that pays for rival LIV Golf.

PGA Tour Enterprises is the commercial group that came out of the framework agreement announced a year ago among the PGA Tour, PIF and the European tour.

PGA Tour Enterprises brought on Strategic Sports Group, which invested an initial $1.5 billion earlier this year. Negotiations are ongoing to bring in PIF as a minority investor, and there has been more activity than previously believed.

Rory McIlroy, who joined Tiger Woods and Adam Scott on the transaction committee, said it has been meeting with PIF representatives every Monday, Wednesday and Friday over the last couple of weeks. The tour referred to negotiations as “accelerated” in recent months.

Friday’s meeting was the first in-person discussion since players and board members met with Al-Rumayyan in the Bahamas the day after The Players Championship in March.

The tour said the committee and PIF have been meeting “multiple times weekly to work through potential deal terms and come to a shared vision on the future of professional golf.” It said only that “more progress was made” in New York.

“We remain committed to these negotiations, which require working through complex considerations to best position golf for global growth,” the tour said.

Woods and Scott are on the full PGA Tour Enterprises board, along with player directors Jordan Spieth, Webb Simpson, Patrick Cantlay and Peter Malnati.

McIlroy resigned from the PGA Tour board last November, and there was an unsuccessful attempt by Simpson to have McIlroy replace him. McIlroy, the strongest voice who has gone from heavy criticism of LIV to being more willing to compromise, is part of the transaction committee and ultimately does not have a vote.

But he has relationships with both sides of the table. McIlroy had said he would be more in listen mode when the business leaders — Al-Rumayyan and his team at PIF, a PGA Tour Enterprises committee that includes four SSG investors — sorted through details.

“We’re there to maybe give a perspective from player’s point of view,” McIlroy had said Thursday. “But, I mean, this is a negotiation about an investment into PGA Tour Enterprises. This is ‘big boy’ stuff, and I’ll certainly be doing more listening than I will be talking.”

AP golf: https://apnews.com/hub/golf

Doug Ferguson, The Associated Press

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Valley Announces “Water the Flowers, Pray for a Garden” + 2024 North American Tour

Alternative-pop band Valley – comprised of Rob Laska (Lead Vocals, Guitar), Alex Dimauro (Bass) and Karah James (Vocals, Drums) – release the title track and announce their third full-length album Water the Flowers, Pray for a Garden , arriving August 30 through Capitol Records/Universal Music Canada.

“’Water The Flowers, Pray For A Garden’ is a song about love and loss. It touches on the classic idea that nobody is going to make you happier than yourself, and sometimes we take ourselves too seriously to the point where we become unhappy,” Karah describes with optimism. “Everything feels like a bigger deal than it really is or ever should be. Sometimes the best thing we can do is just laugh at ourselves and let it go.” “Water the Flowers, Pray for a Garden” follows “When You Know Someone,” which was released last month and debuted as Valley’s highest streamed songs in its first week of release.

“Water the Flowers, Pray For A Garden” was written in the same session as Valley’s viral hit, “Like 1999” which moved them to take a more pop leaning direction that they pursued with gusto on 2021’s Last Birthday and last year’s Lost in Translation. “We had these two paths that we previously didn’t know we had,” Karah reflects on the discovery of the old song, “this feels like us. It feels like a path that finally feels like Valley.”

The title track captures the spirit of the whole record and was the song that inspired working on a larger project. After reworking the song, its overall message sparked a cascade of some of the band’s most authentic songwriting that sprawls across every song. Water the Flowers, Pray For A Garden is a brave exploration of the full spectrum of emotions with an invitation to also surrender control and trust the process.

Pre-order ’Water The Flowers, Pray For A Garden’ here .

Water the Flowers, Pray for a Garden Tracklist: Water the Flowers, Pray for a Garden A Little More Growing (Apart) When You Know Someone Let It Rain Crawlspace Mosquito Bop Ba I Didn’t Even Ask For This Bass Player’s Brother Life Goes On Without Me Cocoon

In addition to the summer festival appearances and Canadian shows with friends, today Valley announce their Water the Flowers, Pray for a Garden North American headlining tour spanning coast to coast in the US and Canada. The tour includes shows at iconic venues and some of the biggest rooms they’ve played to date, including Brooklyn Steel in New York, The Wiltern in Los Angeles, History in Toronto and more.

WATER THE FLOWERS, PRAY FOR A GARDEN US TOUR DATES

09/28 Philadelphia, PA – Union Transfer 09/29 Boston, MA – House of Blues 10/01 Washington, D.C. – 9:30 Club 10/02 Brooklyn, NY – Brooklyn Steel 10/04 Asheville, NC – The Orange Peel 10/05 Atlanta, GA – Buckhead Theatre 10/06 Nashville, TN – Cannery Hall 10/08 Chicago, IL – The Vic Theatre 10/09 Minneapolis, MN – First Avenue 10/11 Boulder, CO – Boulder Theatre 10/12 Denver, CO – Gothic Theatre 10/13 Salt Lake City, UT – The Union Event Centre 10/15 Phoenix, AZ – The Van Buren 10/15 San Diego, CA – The Observatory North Park 10/18 Los Angeles, CA – The Wiltern 10/19 Berkeley, CA – The UC Theatre 10/21 Portland, OR – Revolution Hall 10/22 Seattle, WA – The Showbox 10/23 Vancouver, BC – Commodore Ballroom 10/26 Edmonton, AB – Midway 10/29 Saskatoon, SK – Coors Event Centre 10/30 Winnipeg, MB – Park Theatre 11/02 London, ON – London Music Hall 11/05 Waterloo, ON – Maxwell’s Concerts & Events 11/07 Kingston, ON – The Ale House 11/08 Ottawa, ON – Bronson Centre 11/09 Montreal, QC – Studio TD 11/12 Quebec City, QC – Grizzly Fuzz 11/14 Charlottetown, PE – PEI Brewing Company 11/15 Moncton, NB – Tide & Boar Ballroom 11/16 Halifax, NS – Marquee Ballroom 12/13 Toronto, ON – History

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One Day in Moscow Itinerary – What to do in Moscow, Russia

Moscow is an amazing city full of history. Located in western Russia, on the Moskva River, it has been the capital of the country since the 14th century, with a break of 200 years when the capital of Russia was moved to Sankt Petersburg. This impressive place provides its visitors with a glimpse of Russian traditions and ways of living but also boasts many incredible sights. One day in Moscow will therefore be an amazing experience full of things to do an places to see. This is Russian culture and history at its finest!

Moscow is also one of the most populated cities in the world and the most populated and fastest-growing city in Europe. Visiting it in one day is a challenge , but not impossible. Discover its amazing architecture, UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and incredible parks because this is one of the greenest cities in Europe, too.

What’s the Best Time to Visit Moscow?

Moscow is a cold city, and if you want to enjoy it fully while it is sunny, the best time to visit it is during summer. However, summer is the most touristy season , and the prices are very high, but the weather is very nice (from June to August the temperature is about 22° – 24°C).

In Moscow, there is more winter than any other season, so autumn turns cold really fast and the spring comes late. If you want to avoid the crowded season, you can visit the city from April to May and during the fall month of September, when the temperatures are more bearable. Winter in Moscow is snowy and incredibly cold, with temperatures of -10°C in December and January. But this is also a part of its charm.

A Few Facts About Moscow

Moscow really is an incredible city, and it has a high number of UNESCO World Heritage Sites that mustn’t be missed when you visit it. Its historic buildings describe perfectly the colorful and nice Russian architecture, transporting you back in time. Moscow is also a key element of the political, cultural, scientific, and economic development of Eastern Europe, with some iconic buildings to prove this. These include the Red Square, the Kremlin, and even the largest bell in the world which can be visited anytime.

One Day in Moscow

Spending just one day in Moscow is not enough to discover all of its hidden gems, culture, and history, but it is still a great opportunity to meet this fascinating city. Visit and discover the most iconic places in Moscow and don’t forget to take a lot of pictures.

Start with a Breakfast at Coffeemania (Kofemaniya Moss)

You have a great day ahead of you, so it is better to start it off with a good breakfast. Coffeemania is one of the most appreciated bars by tourists, especially because it is close to the city center. You can choose from a lot of breakfast options, including vegetarian or vegan meals. It is an excellent cafe with characteristic Russian design that makes the morning experience more enjoyable. There are two Coffeemanias in Moscow, one that is in a mall, and this one which is at 1.8 km from the Red Square, just 20 minutes away.

Admire the Red Square

The Red Square has been an important and iconic place for Moscow since 1400. It became popular and famous after all the military parades, demonstrations, and events that took place here. It is definitely one of the places you should not miss when in Moscow, even if you have just one day here. The Red Square is also incredibly beautiful, as evidenced by its Russian name – the Red Square translates to Krasnaya Ploshchad in Russian, Krasnaya meaning beautiful in old Russian.

Soak in the Beauty of Saint Basil’s Cathedral (Khram Vasiliya Blazhennogo)

Saint Basil’s Cathedral is one of the most iconic places in Moscow. Depending on the season, during the day it is very crowded because it is one of the most important tourist attractions. But if you want to visit it during the night, you won’t believe the combination of lights and colors you can see here. Saint Basil’s Cathedral is famous for its bright and colorful cherry onion domes, one of the most important cultural symbols of the country. It was built in 1552 and the legend says that Ivan the Terrible blinded the architects. Why? So that they will not build another structure or replicate the existing one.

Visit Lenin’s Mausoleum

Lenin’s Mausoleum is located in the Red Square and it is also known as Lenin’s Tomb. It became one of the major attractions in Moscow, especially because the preserved mummy of Vladimir Lenin is on public display. You do not have to pay for a ticket because the entrance is free. But during tourist season, you might have to wait in line at a queue.

Discover the Kremlin

The Red Square is a tourist attraction, not only because of its historical and cultural value but also because it is the place where the Kremlin is located. The Kremlin can be seen from the Red Square; however, it takes you 12 minutes to reach it on foot. This magnificent building was built between the 14th and 17th centuries and is one of the most important ones in the country.

Kremlin means fortress inside a city, which pretty much describes it perfectly. Inside the Kremlin are five palaces, four cathedrals, 20 towers, and an enclosing wall. The Kremlin Palace , which is located inside the Kremlin is the official residence of the President of Russia. You can visit the Kremlin, and the ticket is around 700 rubles.

Relax in the Alexander Garden (Alexandrovsky Sad)

The Alexander Garden is one of the first public parks built in Moscow, right near the Kremlin, only 6 minutes away. It runs along the length of the western Kremlin wall and it has three separate gardens.

The Upper Garden is also home to the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier , where people pay tribute to the war veterans. Here you will also find some remains of the buildings that celebrated the victory of Russia over Napoleon (which were later destroyed when France occupied Moscow) and an obelisk from Finland that was re-carved when Lenin ruled the country.

Have Lunch at Beluga

Beluga is close to Alexander Garden and is rated as one of the best restaurants in Moscow. Here you will have the opportunity to taste the Russian cuisine and discover its gastronomy. It is located in a modern hotel that also offers a rooftop view of the most iconic places, such as the Kremlin.

Visit the Theater Square and the Bolshoi Theatre

The Theater Square of Moscow is another square that is iconic for the capital of Russia. Here you can see the Bolshoi Theatre , where you can also go to see an opera and theater performances. It is an iconic place where Russia developed its artistic side, so it is very much worth visiting. It was built between 1821 and 1825 and it takes you just five minutes to reach it on foot from Beluga.

End the Day with a Night Visit to Artbat

Artbat is not so close to the city center, but the visit during the evening or the night is a great idea. From the Theater Square, you can take the M2 tram and reach it in about 20 minutes, or you can walk and reach it in 40 minutes (it’s only 3km away).

Artbat is a street filled with kiosks with a lot of souvenirs, bars, cafes, and restaurants, so you can have dinner here, too. It is a major tourist attraction, but the locals love it too because here are the Pushkin House (a museum) and the Vakhtangov Theater where you can see artistic performances.

Where to stay in Moscow?

Moscow is one of the biggest cities in Europe, so it has a lot of accommodation options. But taking into consideration that you only get to spend one day there, you may want to choose a location close to the city center. However, public transportation is organized and accessible, so it will be easy to move between locations.

Brosko Hotel Arbat

Ulitsa Novy Arbat, 21 bld. 2, Arbat, 119019 Moscow

As you end the day at Arbat Street, you could book your accommodation at the 4-star Brosko Hotel. It offers high-quality services and impressive rooms. You can also eat at their restaurant, which has options both for meat-eaters and vegetarians, plus they also have airport shuttles.

BOOK A ROOM HERE

Radisson Collection Hotel Moscow

Kutuzovsky Prospekt 2/1 bld.1, Dorogomilovo, 121248 Moscow

If you are looking for a luxury hotel for your Moscow trip, this is the one. The rooms are modern, with high ceilings and everything you need from a flat TV screen to Wi-Fi and room service. It has about 19 restaurants, and some of them offer you amazing panoramic views over Moscow. And if you want to relax, you can go to the spa and the interior pool, and end the day drinking some cocktails at their Club Restaurant or Lobby Bar.

Pokrovka 6 Hotel

Ulitsa Pokrovka 6 , Basmanny, 101000 Moscow 

This amazing little hotel offers excellent service, great interior design and a fantastic location. And all of that comes at a very affordable price. Guest rooms come with a private bathroom and a fridge, on top of a desk and a flat-screen TV. Excellent!

Day Trips from Moscow

There is a lot of nice attractions and places to explore and visit near Moscow. Some of the best day trips include:

Korolev – located just one hour away from Moscow, it is considered a suburb of the capital. However, it has its own identity, which was shaped during World War II. Here was the industrial area of Russia back at the time and also the base for Soviet Space Exploration .

Borodino – if you want to visit the place where Napoleon was defeated by the Russian army , then a two-hour day trip from Moscow to Borodino is what you are looking for. It is not that popular among tourists, so you can enjoy it calmly.

Zvenigorod – if you want to discover the Russian cuisine, then you should head straight to Zvenigorod. Besides the beautiful and impressive monasteries, here you can visit the Museum of Russian Desserts . And the best thing about it is that you can taste them, so it will be a nice gastronomical experience.

Extra Tips for Visiting Moscow

Here are some extra trips you should consider before visiting Moscow .

You need a visa (that you need to pay for) to visit Russia or an invitation from an approved organization.

Always have cash with you because not all shops in Moscow accept credit card payments.

You can use the Metro for transportation, as it is one of the most used, fastest, and cheapest means of transportation in crowded Moscow.

Pin for later!

If you have any other propositions for this One Day in Moscow Itinerary, feel free to share it in the comments below!

Make sure you have everything you need

What to pack for your next trip.

Make your next trip as simple and as enjoyable as possible by packing smart. It’s amazing how much stress top travel items can save you, so choose carefully. Things like lightweight travel backpacks, for example, are ideal for short trips and allow you to move around with ease, and a passport holder will make sure you keep your documents safe at all times. Check our travel checklist guide for 2021 to make sure you haven’t missed anything, and travel to your next destination in style and with maximum comfort.

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Michael Gorman

Michael Gorman is a highly skilled freelance writer and proofreader from the UK who currently works at australia assignment help , one of the best essay writing websites . He contributes weekly to the best essay writing services uk . Being interested in everyday development, he writes various blog posts and discovers new aspects of human existence every day. Michael’s hobbies are traveling and cooking. Feel free to contact him via Facebook or check his Twitter .

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