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Ottawa is surrounded by a rich history, natural beauty, and the charm of a small town; the adventures nearby are perfect for a quick getaway. If you love outdoor recreation, culture, and sightseeing or simply enjoy a nice view, there are many places to visit near Ottawa that have it all. Within a short drive from Ottawa, you have access to scenic lakes, historic villages, unique museums, and even forested trails. The experiences nearby are not only contained in a short drive, but they also offer a memorable experience at all times of the year.
10 Places To Visit Near Ottawa
The places to visit near Ottawa have everything from quaint heritage towns to picturesque parks to tranquil lakeside locations, all the perfect getaways that are only a short car ride away.
1. Gatineau Park
Photo: Andrijko Z. / Wikimedia Commons
Gatineau Park is a stunning natural area located only a few minutes from Ottawa’s downtown. It hosts over 361 square kilometers of forests, lakes, and hills, and it is a dream for locals who love outdoor adventure, a paradise for hikers with breathtaking views, mountain biking, and stunning picnic areas and it is also home to the picturesque Pink Lake with its turquoise waters, the Champlain Lookout an amazing place to get panoramic views, and the Mackenzie King Estate is where Canada’s 10th Prime Minister used to call home. Visiting Gatineau Park in the fall can be a breathtaking sight due to the leaves changing color. Gatineau Park is certainly one of the most beautiful places to visit near Ottawa for nature and adventure lovers.
Distance from Ottawa: 15.7 km
Top Highlights: Hiking, fall colors, Pink Lake
2. Wakefield
Photo: M. Rehemtulla / Wikimedia Commons
Hidden in the Gatineau Hills, the scenic riverside village of Wakefield is artistic, rustic, and charmed. This is an adorable place that is only a brief drive away from Ottawa, Canada, and is well known for its red-covered bridge, beautiful scenery, and slow-tempo life. The visitors can take a walk along the Gatineau River, have some live music in local pubs, or visit boutique art galleries and vintage shops. Outdoorsmen have the opportunity to trek the local trails or rent a kayak and have a serene paddle. Wakefield is also home to warm cafes and bakeries, and it has the Wakefield Mill Inn and Spa, a perfect weekend getaway.
Distance from Ottawa: 35 km
Top Highlights: Covered bridge, local arts, Wakefield Mill
3. Montebello
Photo: Stanisom / Wikimedia Commons
Montebello is a special combination of nature and luxury located along the Ottawa River. The historical and legendary Château Montebello is a log cabin that boasts the biggest log cabin in the world, and presently, it has been transformed into a luxury resort that is surrounded by nature. Among the largest tourist attractions near Ottawa is the Parc Omega, located at the drive-through wildlife park in which one gets to observe various elk, bears, wolves, and bison in their natural and open enclosures. Those enthusiastic about history can visit Manoir Papineau- a manor house of the 19th century, including gardens with a landscaping design and exclusive tours.
Distance from Ottawa: 84 km
Top Highlights: Parc Omega, Château Montebello, wildlife watching.
4. Merrickville
Photo: Cantons-de-l’Est / Wikimedia Commons
Merrickville is a heritage village, or more properly described as a picture-perfect heritage village, commonly referred to as the Jewel of the Rideau. The small town is situated along Rideau Canal, a historic canal built in the 1800s, and has a dynamic community situated in a wonderfully preserved 19th-century architectural environment comprising artisan shops and boutiques. One can visit the Merrickville Blockhouse National Historic Site, do some shopping in handicrafts created by local artists, or just take a leisurely cup of coffee along the waterfront. You will never get bored entering the slow lifestyle, artistic feeling, and historic nature of Merrickville, which makes it one of the most magical places to see near Ottawa on a relaxing day tour.
Distance from Ottawa: 75.2 km
Top Highlights: Rideau Canal, artisan shops, Blockhouse Museum
5. Perth
Photo: Dwong33 / Wikimedia Commons
Perth is a well-maintained heritage town where the old 19th-century structures are well-integrated with nature and contemporary amenities. It is situated along the Tay River; its magical stone structures, green grounds, and chilled environment are its preferred weekend indulgence. Located directly in the center of town, Stewart Park is ideal for having a scenic picnic or for taking a walk through the arched bridges. The Perth Museum provides an insight into the colonial history of the town, but local cafes, breweries, and boutiques transform this picture with a modern touch. There are seasonal activities that awaken the community, such as the Perth Garlic Festival.
Distance from Ottawa: 85.4 km
Top Highlights: Stewart Park, heritage sites, food & drink
6. Calabogie
Photo: Matthew Bargh / Unsplash
Calabogie is a four-season destination with breathtaking landscapes and exciting outdoor activities, all located in the Ottawa Valley. In the winter, Calabogie Peaks Resort welcomes skiers and snowboarders, with its freshly groomed hills and lodges, to enjoy the winter wonderland. Once the snow melts, the area is a haven for hikers and paddlers with trails like Eagle’s Nest. Calabogie Lake offers plenty of options for kayaking, fishing, swimming, or just relaxing. The town also attracts visitors to motorsport events and festivals, the fun always accompanied by that small-town community spirit. For those looking for adventure outdoors, and otherwise, Calabogie is no doubt at the top attractions near Ottawa list.
Distance from Ottawa: 102 km
Top Highlights: Skiing, Eagle’s Nest hike, Calabogie Lake
7. Almonte
Photo: Jeffrey Zhang / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
Almonte is a beautiful historic town situated by the riverside of the Mississippi River, renowned and popular for its artistic nature and historic appeal. It is the hometown of James Naismith, the brains behind basketball, and has museums, galleries, and interesting shops that promote local culture. Scenic walking trails and waterfalls make this town a very pretty image spot and a place to rest. The welcoming attitude is facilitated by the cosy cafes and vibrant community activities throughout the year at Almonte. The beauty of the river views, Almonte is one of the most serene places to visit near Ottawa.
Distance from Ottawa: 52.1 km
Top Highlights: Waterfalls, antique shops, the Mississippi River
8. Upper Canada Village
Photo: Dennis G. Jarvis / Wikimedia Commons
Nearby Morrisburg, the living history museum of Upper Canada Village makes the life of the 19th-century rural world a colorful reality. This outdoor park has over 40 original structures, houses, mills, stores, etc., manned by costumed interpreters who work at crafts such as blacksmithing, weaving, etc. Visitors are also welcome to discover wagons pulled by horses, and samples of traditional dishes, as well as the presence of seasonal events, including the massive Pumpkinferno light show and its festive holiday celebrations. The village provides an active and in-depth experience, and it is both instructive and entertaining, so it is ideal for families with small children and history lovers.
Distance from Ottawa: 90 km
Top Highlights: Living museum, costumed staff, themed events
9. Prince Edward County
Photo: The Cosmonaut / Wikimedia Commons
A little further beyond Ottawa is Prince Edward County, a beautiful area renowned in the area in terms of its breathtaking vineyards, sandy beaches, and vibrant arts culture. Tourists can visit Sandbanks Provincial Park, which is characterised by huge dunes and crystal clear waters where visitors can swim and have picnics. The many wineries in the county provide tastings and tours and present their award-winning wines in scenic locations. The charming towns, such as Picton and Wellington, are crowded with craft-based stores, art galleries, and farm-based eateries that emphasise regional tastes.
Distance from Ottawa: 269.9 km
Top Highlights: Wineries, Sandbanks Beach, small-town charm
10. Thousand Islands
Photo: Pierre André Leclercq / Wikimedia Commons
The Thousand Islands along the St. Lawrence River is a beautiful assortment of more than 1,800 islands that are considered beautiful due to their scenic beauty and landmarks. Tourists are able to cruise in boats to see notable things such as Boldt Castle, an outstanding waterfront castle with a great story behind it. Kayaking and fishing are two of the most common methods of enjoying the calm waters and the rich wildlife. The verge town of Gananoque is the gateway to the town, where the waterfront parks, attractive shops, and restaurants can be found. It is also a great place to go cycling and hiking, as there are well-placed scenic trails through green forests and along the banks of the river.
Distance from Ottawa: 152.7 km
Top Highlights: Boat tours, Boldt Castle, kayaking
The region around Ottawa offers scenic beauty, cultural gems, and peaceful escapes year-round. These places to visit near Ottawa are perfect for exploring historic towns, enjoying panoramic hikes, or unwinding at a tranquil lakeside retreat. These spots feel like a true getaway, yet are just a short drive from the city. Discover Ontario’s hidden gems and start planning your perfect escape with TripXL today.
Cover Photo: Nicholas Laurenzio / Unsplash
