We have so many charming towns surrounding Ottawa, all with their own unique draws and hidden gems. Here’s a list of some of my favourite spots for a day trip from Ottawa and some things to do while you’re there.
Interested in day trips in Quebec? Check this post.
Day Trips From Ottawa
Carp
25 minute day trip from Ottawa
Carp is technically still in Ottawa but it’s 25 minutes from downtown and there’s plenty to do. I grew up here so I have a soft spot for all the wonderful businesses. Check out my guide to Carp here. From delicious restaurants, a brewery, vineyard, farmers market and more, there’s plenty to keep you busy for the day in Carp. There’s even a spot you’ll find an old British telephone booth 😉
Stittsville
25 Minute day trip from Ottawa
Stittsville is the food truck destination of Ottawa. Use this Stittsville Food Truck guide and spend an afternoon trying different bites. From classic comforts to international bites, there’s plenty of food spots you’ll want to try.
Carleton Place
40 minute day trip from Ottawa
Head to Carleton Place for a fun day trip from Ottawa. Park your car and explore their main street full of unique shops and restaurants. Grab some ice cream and enjoy it by the water. Check out my guide to Carleton Place here.
Almonte
42 minute day trip from Ottawa
Not only is Almonte known as the friendly town but it’s also a popular spot for filming movies! This charming town is full of wonderful local businesses and beautiful sights that make it perfect for a day trip from Ottawa. Spend an afternoon exploring the main street and doing the riverwalk. Make sure you leave time to visit Mill of Kintail, full of acres of trails (and dog friendly). Check out my guide to Almonte before going. This is a town I visit a lot.
Pakenham
42 minute day trip from Ottawa
Head out for a day trip to Pakenham. You’ll know you’re there when you see the old 5 span bridge. Head into town and explore the shops. One of my childhood favourites is Penny’s Fudge Factory. There are so many wonderful flavours to try. Another favourite of mine is Fulton’s Sugar Bush and Pancake House. I love going in the winter and enjoying a pancake breakfast and walking the trails. You can also ski or snowboard at Pakenham Hill (this is where I learned to snowboard).
Merrickville
53 minute day trip from Ottawa
This scenic town is along the Rideau Canal. It’s a historic town with plenty of cool shops and restaurants to explore. Merrickville is a great destination in any season. Check out my full Merrickville Guide, which includes shops, spots you can’t miss, and more.
Smith Falls
59 minutes from Ottawa
Smith Falls is not only connected to Ottawa by roads but also the Rideau Canal. You’ll find a lock station here. Check out this post for some ideas to do in Smith Falls.
Calabogie
1 hour 2 minutes day trip from Ottawa
From a brewery, motorsport track and more, there’s plenty of fun in Calabogie. Make sure to hike Eagles Nest Lookout for an incredible view while you’re there. Find all the information you need for Eagles Nest Lookout and more ideas of things to do in Calabogie here.
Perth
1 hour 5 minute day trip from Ottawa
This charming town is the perfect spot for a day trip. Go kayaking on the Tay River, explore the shops and restaurants, and spend some time in Stewart Park. Find more things to do in Perth in this post.
Rideau Ferry/Port Elmsley
1 hour 7 minute day trip from Ottawa
Head to Rideau Ferry and grab an early bite by the water at CC’s On The Rideau. Afterward, head to a drive-in movie at Port Elmsley Drive-In Theatre. Make sure to book your tickets in advance because they sell out. Details here.
Cornwall
Hour and 15 minutes from Ottawa
You’ll find Cornwall along the St. Lawrence River. Enjoy cycling along their waterfront trail and then head to the Main Street to explore their shops and restaurants. Make sure to pop into Happy Popcorn Co. for some epic treats and Truffle Burger Bar for next levels burgers.
Morrisburg
1 hour 15 minute day trip from Ottawa
Head to Morrisburg to explore Upper Canada Village. Visit in the summer to experience what Canada was like in the 1860s. Browse the historic buildings and see people in character sharing stories. Visit in the fall for Pumpkin Inferno where you’ll see thousands of hand-carved pumpkins made into cool designs. Visit in the Winter for Alight at Night where you’ll see the village illuminated by thousands of Christmas lights.
Pembroke
1 hour 40 minute day trip from Ottawa
Pembroke is a great spot for a day trip. I loved the restaurants, shops and exploring all the murals downtown. Make sure to walk to the water. I have a list of must-do’s for Pembroke in this post. I had one of the best grilled cheese of my life here and found some really great shops. End your night with a drive-in movie at Skylight Pembroke.
1000 Islands & Boldt Castle
1 hour 40 minutes day trip from Ottawa
Spend the day exploring 1000 Islands. Hit the water on a kayak or go on a cruise of the 1000 islands. Head to the top of the 1000 Islands tower for an incredible panoramic view. Take a tour through Boldt Castle while you’re on a day trip from Ottawa. There is plenty to do here. You could easily make this a staycation too.
Prince Edward County
2 hour day trip from Ottawa
Spend the day at Sandbanks Provincial Park or go on a winery tour (make sure you have a DD). You can easily turn everything to do in Prince Edward County into a staycation and stay at the popular and insta-dream, June motel.
We did a limo wine tour for my Dad’s 60th. You can also do biking winery tours or self-guided.
Marmora
2 hour day trip from Ottawa
Head on a day trip to explore this old mining town. First stop, check out the old Marmora Mine. It’s now filled in with water and quite the sight. Next, stop at Hidden Goldmine Bakery and pick up some treats and baked goods. Bring it with you to O’Hara Homestead and Conservation Area. There are over 100 acres to explore including buildings, trails, gardens and more. This is a great spot to stop for a picnic with your bakery goods. Before you leave, visit Potter Settlement Winery. Make sure you have a DD before sampling. They have lots of cool stories behind their wines. Check out this post where I go into detail for these activities on this post when I visited for a festival last fall.
Check out my list of Quebec Day Trips Near Ottawa.
Interested in something longer? Check out this guide of road trips near Ottawa.
Julia started Little Miss Ottawa as a way to explore her hometown as a traveller would. She’s always planning her next adventure, whether it’s local or abroad. You’ll find her exploring with her camera in hand. She hopes Little Miss Ottawa helps bring you on new and fun adventures. Happy exploring :)
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