Destination: Ottawa, ON
Trip Overview: Embark on an exhilarating adventure through the heart of Canada’s capital, Ottawa, where the city’s effervescent spirit comes alive, especially during the festive Canada Day celebrations. This Toronto to Ottawa Road trip is one you can easily make in a few days.
This carefully curated four to five-day excursion is perfect for families and couples eager to dive into the rich tapestry of Canadian culture and the breathtaking vistas that define Ottawa’s charm.
Toronto to Ottawa Road Trip Route Options:
There are a couple of different ways to get to Ottawa from Toronto, one is the good ole 401, the second is the scenic route. Here are driving details for both.
Highway 401 Route:
Highway Route: Begin your journey in the Toronto region, and head east on Highway 401. Continue until you reach Highway 416 and then proceed north. Be vigilant as you pass Brockville to ensure you take the exit onto Highway 416. Follow through until exit #75, where you’ll transition onto Highway 417 east, leading you straight into the bustling heart of downtown Ottawa. Keep an eye out for these critical junctions to stay on the right path.
Highway Exit Information to Watch for:
Navigating to new destinations always brings its share of unexpected turns and off ramps that can catch you off guard. With four decades of experience behind the wheel of a bus, I’ve encountered my fair share of these surprises. To help you avoid any confusion, here are the key things to look out for on your eastbound trip to Ottawa from the Toronto area.
First Highway Change onto Highway 416:
Just past Brockville, you want to exit onto Highway 416, here’s a screenshot of a map for a bit of clarity. You’re goint to stay right as you exit, then head North onto 416.
Second Highway Change onto Highway 417:
Now, as we start to get into the outskirts of Ottawa, depending on where you’re staying this is where the GPS is recommended. However, making the assumption you’re headed toward downtown Ottawa, here are details for heading toward downtown.
The Scenic Route
– Scenic Route: For a route filled with picturesque landscapes, take Highway 7 from Peterborough. If you’re coming from Highway 401, take exit 544 at Belleville and head north on Highway 37. Continue until you reach Highway 7, then make your way eastward, passing through the charming towns of Tweed, Perth, and Carleton Place.
After this scenic journey, you’ll connect with Highway 417 east that will lead you directly to Ottawa.
Travel Tips – Smartphone Map Apps
Your smartphone can become a powerful navigation tool with the right map apps. The top contenders are Waze, Google Maps, and Apple Maps. I often switch between Waze and Google Maps myself.
Waze excels with its real-time updates on highway conditions, thanks to user-reported incidents, while Google Maps offers superior traffic flow analysis by leveraging location data from iPhones and Android devices. For newcomers to these navigation aids, keep an eye out for color-coded lines on your map—red or yellow typically means you’re heading into slower traffic.
Honourable Mentions for onroute.ca
If you’re comfortable sharing your location on your smartphone, also be sure to checkout the official site, onroute.ca. Use the “Find a Location” feature, to give you precise details.
ONroute Locations between Toronto and Ottawa
These are the onRoute stops between Toronto and Ottawa
Eastbound
Westbound
Place to take a break aside from ONroute
– For a lunch break, exit #617 from Hwy 401 onto Division St. in Kingston for a variety of dining options. Here’s a list of some of the options right at the cutoff.
- Panera Bread
- Tim Hortons
- Starbucks
- McDonald’s
- Wendy’s
- A&W
- Arby’s
- Montana’s BBQ
- Harvey’s
- One Eyed Jack
More options can be found, further down Division Street.
Accommodations in Ottawa – 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟Spanky’s Picks
Here’s a list of some of the regular places Spanky has stayed over the last 40 years, doing bus trips to Ottawa. These come as an official “Spanky’s Picks” Recommendation.
Courtyard by Marriott, Dalhousie St.
350 Dalhousie St, Ottawa, ON K1N 7E9
Lord Elgin Hotel, Elgin St.
100 Elgin St, Ottawa, ON K1P 5K8
Novotel Ottawa City Centre, Nicholas St.
33 Nicholas St, Ottawa, ON K1N 9M7
Les Suites Hotel, Besserer St.
130 Besserer St, Ottawa, ON K1N 9M9
Dining Recommendations:
Here’s a short list of Restaurants we recommend
Must-See Attractions:
Every must-see attraction is linked to its Google Maps location to make finding your way easier.
Museums
Dive into Canada’s military history at the Canadian War Museum, a must-visit for history buffs. Located at 1 Vimy Place, Ottawa, this museum offers a profound look into the conflicts that shaped Canada, its people, and the world.
Its impressive exhibits span centuries of military engagements, from the early days of New France to modern peacekeeping missions, all housed in an architecturally stunning building.
Experience the natural wonders of Canada at the Canadian Museum of Nature, situated at 240 McLeod St, Ottawa. This museum is perfect for families and anyone interested in exploring the country’s rich biodiversity.
From dinosaur fossils to the Arctic ecosystem, its interactive exhibits and beautiful galleries provide an insightful look into Canada’s natural landscapes and wildlife.
Step into a hidden chapter of history at the Diefenbunker, located at 3929 Carp Rd, Ottawa. This former nuclear bunker, now a museum, offers a unique glimpse into the Cold War era through its preserved facilities.
Visitors can explore the underground complex, learn about espionage, and discover how Canada prepared for potential nuclear threats.
Delve into the world of economics and currency at the Bank of Canada Museum, located at 30 Bank St, Ottawa.
Through interactive exhibits and engaging displays, visitors can learn about the value of money, the economy, and the role of the Bank of Canada. It’s an educational experience that demystifies the complex world of finance.
Ignite your curiosity at the Canada Science and Technology Museum, situated at 1867 St. Laurent Blvd, Ottawa. This museum makes science and technology accessible and fun for all ages with hands-on exhibits, demonstrations, and interactive displays.
From the steam locomotives to space travel, it highlights Canada’s contributions to scientific and technological advancements.
Explore Canada’s agricultural heritage at the Canada Agriculture and Food Museum, located at 901 Prince of Wales Dr, Ottawa.
This unique museum offers a blend of interactive exhibits and live animal demonstrations, providing insights into farming practices, food production, and the science behind agriculture.
Soar through the history of aviation at the Canadian Aviation and Space Museum, located at 11 Aviation Pkwy, Ottawa. Visitors can marvel at the extensive collection of aircraft, learn about Canada’s contributions to space exploration, and even experience flight simulations.
It’s a fascinating journey through the skies and beyond.
National Sites
Each must-see spot comes with a Google Maps link to simplify your navigation.
Visit the heart of Canada’s democracy at Parliament Hill, located on Wellington St, Ottawa. Explore the iconic Gothic Revival architecture, witness the Changing of the Guard, and enjoy panoramic views of the city from the Peace Tower.
Guided tours offer insights into the political process and the history of the nation’s capital.
Discover a world of art at the National Gallery of Canada, situated at 380 Sussex Dr, Ottawa.
Home to an impressive collection of Canadian and Indigenous art, European masterpieces, and contemporary works, this gallery offers a visual journey through different cultures and time periods, all within a stunning architectural setting.
Pay your respects at the National War Memorial, located on Wellington St, Ottawa.
This poignant monument honours the Canadians who have served in war and peacekeeping missions. Its solemn beauty and the ceremonial Tomb of the Unknown Soldier make it a place of reflection and remembrance.
Art & Inspirational
Each recommended attraction includes a Google Maps link for convenient navigation.
Humanics Sanctuary and Sculpture Park – Seasonal may be closed in the off season
(Note: Currently temporarily closed) Discover peace and creativity at the Humanics Sanctuary and Sculpture Park, located at 3468 Ch. Old Montréal Rd, Ottawa.
This tranquil space combines natural beauty with thought-provoking sculptures, promoting themes of peace, equality, and human rights.
Immerse yourself in Ottawa’s vibrant art scene at the Ottawa Art Gallery, located at 50 Mackenzie King Bridge.
This contemporary gallery showcases a diverse range of art forms, from historical pieces to modern and contemporary works, highlighting the talent and creativity of local and national artists.
Experience the spiritual and architectural splendor of the Notre Dame Cathedral Basilica, located at 385 Sussex Dr, Ottawa.
This magnificent church, known for its stunning stained glass and intricate carvings, offers a serene escape and a glimpse into Ottawa’s religious heritage.
Other Interesting Area’s
Each of our recommended attractions includes a Google Maps link for convenient navigation.
Explore Ottawa’s lively ByWard Market, a bustling hub of outdoor vendors, specialty food shops, boutiques, and restaurants.
This historic market area offers a taste of local culture, cuisine, and nightlife, making it a must-visit for anyone wanting to experience the city’s vibrant community spirit.
Watson’s Mill – Seasonal may be closed in the off season
Mill, located at 5525 Dickinson St, Manotick. This operational grist and flour mill, dating back to the 19th century, offers a glimpse into Ottawa’s industrial heritage, set against the picturesque backdrop of the Rideau River.
Celebrate the achievements of Canadian women at the Famous Five Monument, situated at 2 Rideau St, Ottawa.
This inspiring sculpture commemorates the Famous Five, who fought for women’s rights and personhood in the early 20th century, and is a testament to their enduring legacy in shaping Canada.
Enjoy panoramic views of Ottawa from Major’s Hill Park, located on Mackenzie Ave. This green space offers a peaceful retreat with stunning vistas of Parliament Hill, the Ottawa River, and the surrounding landmarks. It’s a favorite spot for picnics, walks, and cultural events.
Experience breathtaking views of Ottawa from the Peace Tower, located near Parliament Hill.
This iconic symbol of Canada offers a unique perspective on the city from its observation deck, along with a chance to see the Memorial Chamber, dedicated to Canadians who have lost their lives in military service.
Take a tour of the Royal Canadian Mint, located at 320 Sussex Drive. This facility produces some of the world’s most stunning collector coins and offers a fascinating look into the art and science of coin-making.
Visitors can learn about the minting process and even hold a solid gold bar.
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟Spanky’s Pick
Explore the engineering marvel of the Rideau Canal Locks, stretching from Ottawa’s downtown to beyond.
These historic locks, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offer a glimpse into 19th-century innovation and are especially popular in winter when the canal becomes the world’s largest skating rink.
Discover the natural beauty of Hog’s Back Falls, an urban oasis where the Rideau River and Rideau Canal diverge. This scenic spot offers picturesque views, walking paths, and picnic areas, making it an ideal location for a relaxing day out in nature.
Discover the historical charm of Ottawa at the Rideau Canal’s Lock 13 – Black Rapids Lockstation. Nestled along the scenic waterway, this lock station offers visitors a glimpse into the ingenuity of 19th-century engineering.
It’s a peaceful spot for watching boats as they navigate the locks, perfect for a leisurely picnic or a tranquil walk along the canal’s banks.
Notable Side Trip Worth Mentioning While Travelling to and from Ottawa
As you weave your way between the vibrant cityscapes of Ottawa and the diverse landscapes that define Ontario, a delightful detour beckons at Colborne’s The Big Apple – a quirky and unmissable roadside attraction. Known far and wide for their mouthwatering signature apple pies, it’s a culinary pit stop that promises to be as memorable as it is delicious.
Nestled amidst the rolling countryside, this giant apple-shaped building isn’t just a novelty on the outside; it’s a treasure trove of homemade goodness that tantalizes the taste buds of travelers and locals alike.
💡💡💡💡💡 Spanky’s Tip – In the world of savvy travel tips, here’s a slice of wisdom: plan your specialty food purchases, like that irresistible local pie, for the return leg of your journey. This way, your delicious finds make it home safely, ready to enjoy at your leisure, rather than tempting you from the backseat.
Step inside The Big Apple and you’ll find more than just pies, although it’s the pies that will steal your heart. Crafted from locally sourced, crisp apples and enveloped in a perfectly flaky crust, each pie is a slice of home-baked perfection. But the experience doesn’t end with a forkful of pie. The Big Apple also offers interactive activities for the whole family, from watching pie-making in action to enjoying the playgrounds and petting zoo.
It’s a must-visit spot that offers a delicious break from the humdrum of travel, serving up a piece of local flavor that’s as rich in taste as it is in experience. Whether you’re starting your journey or heading home, make sure The Big Apple is on your itinerary for an authentic taste of Ontario’s hospitality.
Additional Tips:
The best time to visit Ottawa is from April to October, with Gatineau Park being a highlight in the fall for its spectacular colours. Enjoy your journey through the beautiful landscapes and rich culture of Ottawa and its surroundings!
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