While Ottawa is packed with iconic landmarks and cultural attractions, venturing slightly beyond the city limits can reveal some truly memorable day-trip destinations. Whether you’re craving peaceful nature walks, exploring quaint towns, or immersing yourself in local history, Ottawa’s surroundings have a diverse range of experiences ready to inspire your itinerary. Here’s a closer look at some of the best day trips that perfectly complement a visit to Canada’s capital.
Gatineau Park: A Quick Nature Retreat
Just a short 20-minute drive from downtown Ottawa, Gatineau Park is a beloved natural haven featuring over 361 square kilometers of protected forests, lakes, and trails. In all seasons, it’s a fantastic spot for hiking, cycling, or simply soaking in the view from popular lookouts like King Mountain or Champlain Lookout. During winter, snowshoeing and cross-country skiing attract locals and visitors alike. As an added bonus, the park is free to enter and offers picnic areas that make it an ideal spot to escape the city bustle without traveling far.
Historic Merrickville: Canada’s Prettiest Village
About a 45-minute drive south of Ottawa, Merrickville is a charming village recognized for its beautifully preserved 19th-century architecture and artisan scene. Stroll along cobblestone streets lined with boutique shops, galleries, and cafes. Don’t miss the impressive 19th-century locks of the Rideau Canal, which complement the town’s rich heritage. Merrickville is especially lively in the warmer months with various festivals and farmers’ markets that showcase local craftsmanship and produce.
Perth: A Small Town with Big Stories
Located roughly an hour southwest of Ottawa, Perth is an inviting small town known for its historic downtown core featuring heritage buildings, cozy bistros, and antiques stores. The town’s Scottish roots are reflected in local celebrations and architecture. Outdoor lovers can enjoy the Tay River and nearby cycling trails, while history buffs will appreciate the Perth Museum and the Crystal Palace—a spectacular 19th-century glass structure hosting community events. Perth offers a relaxed pace that’s perfect for a leisurely day trip combined with some good food and friendly hospitality.
Upper Canada Village: Step Back in Time
For families or anyone curious about rural life in the 1860s, Upper Canada Village is a captivating open-air museum located about an hour and a half south of Ottawa. This living history attraction recreates a 19th-century village with costumed interpreters, traditional crafts, and demonstrations of historic farming practices. Visitors can explore heritage buildings, ride a horse-drawn wagon, or enjoy seasonal events that bring Canadian history to life in a hands-on way. It’s a fun, educational experience that adds an interesting dimension to a trip focused on Ottawa’s heritage.
Why Venture Beyond Ottawa?
Taking day trips outside Ottawa not only broadens your perspective of the region but also balances the urban with the rural, the modern with the historical, and the cultural with the natural. Each excursion is relatively short, allowing you to return to Ottawa by evening while feeling like you’ve truly explored the wider area. Whether it’s a quiet afternoon at Gatineau Park or an immersive visit to a heritage village, these day trips enhance any Ottawa visit by showcasing a richer, fuller picture of eastern Ontario and western Quebec.