5 Perfect Day Trips from Ottawa
Sometimes you just need to get out of town. Luckily, Ottawa is surrounded by some of the most charming small towns in Canada.
Whether you want to hunt for antiques, swim in a river, or feel like you’ve stepped onto the set of a Hallmark movie, these 5 destinations are all under an hour's drive away.
1. Wakefield, QC
30 mins NorthFamous for its iconic red covered bridge and bohemian vibe, Wakefield is the ultimate cool-kid day trip. It’s nestled right on the Gatineau River. You can spend the day jumping off the docks at "The Rocks," browsing the general store, or grabbing a pint at the legendary Black Sheep Inn.
2. Almonte, ON
40 mins WestIf Almonte looks familiar, it’s because dozens of Hallmark Christmas movies are filmed here. It is ridiculously picturesque, with waterfalls flowing right through the center of town. The main street is packed with high-end boutiques, bakeries, and antique shops.
3. Merrickville, ON
50 mins SouthDubbed "The Jewel of the Rideau," Merrickville is arguably the best shopping town in the region. It’s famous for its artists—you can watch glassblowers at work, buy handmade leather bags, or visit the old stone blockhouse. It feels like stepping back into a simpler time.
4. Perth, ON
1 hr WestPerth is a town of stone buildings and beautiful waterways. Stewart Park, located behind the town hall, is one of the nicest parks in Ontario for a picnic. The culinary scene here punches way above its weight, with several high-end restaurants and cafes dotting the main strip.
5. Carp, ON
30 mins WestCarp is a tiny village with massive attractions. It’s home to the Diefenbunker (a massive underground Cold War museum) and the Carp Farmers' Market (the biggest in the area). It’s the perfect mix of history and agriculture.