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Day Trips & Excursions

Day Trips & Excursions

Ontario, Canada

Nearby Destinations

Several towns and cities are within easy reach of Ottawa, presenting diverse experiences. Consider booking day trips to explore more.

For a wide range of bookable excursions, explore Day Trips on GetYourGuide.

Gatineau, Quebec

  • Accessibility: Gatineau directly across the Ottawa River, by walking, cycling, public transit, Aqua-Taxi (seasonal), or driving.
  • Highlights: Canadian Museum of History, Nordik Spa-Nature, Gatineau Park, Casino du Lac-Leamy.
  • Time Allotted: Half-day to a full-day visit.
  • Explore further with tours: Gatineau Tours

Beyond the City

Discover more of Eastern Canada's charms with diverse regional day trips and escapes.

Montreal, Quebec

Explore Canada's second-largest city.

Details

  • Accessibility: VIA Rail train, Megabus, or Highway 417 East.
  • Highlights: Old Montreal, Notre-Dame Basilica, Mont Royal.
  • Time Allotted: Full day, or ideally 1-2 overnight stays.

Kingston, Ontario

Discover Canada's first capital city.

Details

  • Accessibility: VIA Rail train or Highway 416 South and Highway 401 East.
  • Highlights: Historic downtown, Fort Henry, Penitentiary Museum, Thousand Islands gateway.
  • Time Allotted: Full day, including travel time.

Natural & Cultural Escapes

Perth, Ontario

  • Type: Charming historic town.
  • Access: Best by car.
  • Focus: Heritage buildings, boutique shops.
  • Time: Half-day.

Thousand Islands

  • Type: St. Lawrence River archipelago.
  • Tours: Boat tours from Kingston or Gananoque.
  • Note: Passport needed for Boldt Castle (US waters).
  • Time: Full day from Ottawa.

Journey Comparisons

  • Ottawa to Montreal2 hours
  • Ottawa to Kingston2 hours
  • Ottawa to Perth1 hour
  • Ottawa to Upper Canada Village1 hour
  • Train Frequency (Montreal)Frequent
  • Train Frequency (Kingston)Frequent
  • Bus OptionsAvailable
  • Self-DriveDirect Routes

Travel Tip

Organized day tours simplify logistics. Independent travel for a personal pace.

Themed Experiences

Explore unique regional attractions and cultural insights near Ottawa.

Upper Canada Village

Living history museum depicting 1860s rural life. Costumed interpreters showcase daily tasks and demonstrations.

Gatineau Park Nature

Extensive hiking, cycling, and ski trails. Explore Pink Lake and Champlain Lookout for panoramic views.

Rideau Canal Waterway

Explore lock stations and charming towns along this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Upper Canada Village Details

A living history museum near Morrisburg, ON.

Aspects

  • Focus: Rural English Canadian life in the 1860s.
  • Seasonal Operation: Typically May to October, with special holiday events in December.
  • Activities: Historic buildings, costumed interpreters, demonstrations.

Gatineau Park Details

A vast conservation area managed by the NCC.

Nature Highlights

  • Trails: Hiking, cycling, cross-country skiing.
  • Prominent Spots: Pink Lake ecosystem, Champlain Lookout vistas.
  • Seasonal Beauty: Stunning fall foliage in late September to mid-October.

Rural & Agricultural

Region FocusOttawa Valley
ActivitiesLocal farms
Local ProduceAvailable
Artisan CraftBreweries
CharmSmall towns
TasteRural character

Nature's Calling

  • Explore scenic routes by car.
  • Discover charming small towns.
  • Visit local farms for fresh produce.
  • Sample craft beverages from regional breweries.
  • Connect with the tranquil countryside.

Extended Journeys

Expand your Canadian adventure with multi-day extensions connecting Ottawa to other major cities.

Ottawa - Montreal - Quebec City Loop

A classic Eastern Canada route combining history, culture, and European charm.

Travel Insights

  • Duration: 3-5 days.
  • Next: Montreal (2 hrs from Ottawa).
  • Beyond: Quebec City (3 hrs from Montreal).

Ottawa - Toronto - Niagara Falls

Combine national capital history with urban vibrancy and natural wonders.

Travel Insights

  • Duration: 3-5 days.
  • Next: Toronto (4-5 hrs from Ottawa).
  • Beyond: Niagara Falls (1.5-2 hrs from Toronto).

Connecting East

Seamless travel between major Eastern Canadian cities.

Transportation

  • Connections: Excellent train and bus service.
  • Train Operator: VIA Rail Canada.
  • Bus Operator: Megabus.

Connecting Southwest

Diverse travel options for your journey.

Transportation

  • Connections: Frequent VIA Rail, bus routes.
  • Niagara Falls: Bus tours or rental car.
  • Flexibility: Self-driving for scenic stops.

Journey Highlights

Ottawa Immersion

Start with Ottawa's national institutions and rich history.

Toronto Vibrancy

Experience diverse neighborhoods, cultural sites, and urban energy.

Quebec Charm

Conclude in Quebec City's walled old town and distinct European feel.

Route Planning

Combine Ottawa with other Canadian gems for a comprehensive and memorable adventure.
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