14 Best Stops on a Toronto to Ottawa Drive
Are you looking to plan a road trip from Toronto to Ottawa? I’ve rounded up the best stops on a Toronto to Ottawa drive!
As a frequent road tripper, especially between Toronto and Ottawa to visit family, I’ve made this trip countless times. Every trip I visit new towns, or parks, or hidden gems along the way.
It’s approximately 400 km between Toronto and Ottawa. And this stretch is home to some of the most amazing destinations in Ontario! A few top stops include Prince Edward County, the Thousand Islands, and Kingston.
This road trip guide has everything you’ll need to know about planning your trip. You’ll find the best places to stop, what to do at each, and different routes. Plus, at the bottom are a few itineraries to choose from.
So, whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or looking to add to your cross-country Canadian road trip, this Ottawa road trip guide is for you!
How to Get from Toronto to Ottawa by Car
For those planning to travel to Ottawa from Toronto by car, the distance is approximately 400 km. Travel time depends on the route you chose. It generally takes 5 to 6 hours for a Toronto to Ottawa drive without stopping.
There are three main routes to choose.
- The fastest Toronto to Ottawa route is taking Highway 401 East to 416 North. Then take 417 East, which is also known as the Queensway in Ottawa. This route takes 4.5 to 5 hours.
- Another option starts on Highway 401 East. Take the ON-37 North exit in Belleville to Highway 7 East, which is also the Trans Canada Highway. Then take 417 East into Ottawa.
- Alternatively, County Road 2 offers a scenic route. For this route, take Highway 401 East to County Road 2 at Port Hope. County Road 2 runs between Port Hope and Prescott. After Prescott take Highway 416 North to 417 East into Ottawa.
If you are planning for a few overnight stops for an extended road trip, I recommend the County Road 2 route. This route offers a greater list of options for places to stay and things to do.
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Toronto to Ottawa Road Trip at a Glance
Before I go in depth with each of the stops, here is a look at the list of top road trip stops. These main stops are found in two of the three road trip routes named above. The fastest route and the County Road 2 route.
- Stop 1: Port Hope
- Stop 2: Coburg
- Stop 3: The Big Apple
- Stop 4: Brighton
- Stop 5: Belleville
- Stop 6: Prince Edward County
- Stop 7: Kingston
- Stop 8: Gananoque
- Stop 9: Brockville Stop
If you are looking for an alternative route, you’ll find a different option after the top stops. This route includes stops along the Highway 7.
Best Stops on a Toronto to Ottawa Road Trip
The following stops are ideal for those taking two of the three main driving routes. All of the following places are along Highway 401 and County Road 2.
Port Hope
One of my favourite stops on a Toronto to Ottawa drive is Port Hope. Located along the shores of Lake Ontario and the Ganaraska River, its one of the prettiest towns in Ontario!
Your first stop in town should be Primitive Designs. This quirky hidden gem is located 3 minutes north of Highway 401. This is a fun stop for families with kids or movie buffs.
Primitive Design is home to an incredible collection massive figures, like two Transformers and dinosaurs. Plus, there’s a sprawling shop that sells a variety of home décor, clothing, and quirky items.
Another one of the top places to visit in Port Hope is the fish ladder. Just north of downtown, this is a must stop in the fall for the annual salmon migration.
Port Hope’s picturesque downtown is a great spot to stroll. You’ll find stunning architecture and awesome shops. There are also a variety of incredible cafes and restaurants. Options are plentiful with everything from the best boba tea to epic burgers.
For those visiting the summer, Port Hope is home to a great little beach. Plus, if you’re looking for a walking trail, I recommend the Waterfront Trail.
Where to eat – Twentysix and Olympic Burger
Recommended length of stay – 1 day (3-4 hours will do if you’re looking for a quick stop)
Where to stay – Hotel Carlyle
Coburg
Culture buffs will love a stop in Cobourg! With a charming downtown, you’ll find a number of interesting things to do in Cobourg.
For those seeking culture, you’ll find the Marie Dressler Museum, a theatre and the Art Gallery of Northumberland. The gallery is set in the historic Town Hall building and home to a range of Canadian art.
Its historic downtown is full of 19th century architecture. Plus, you’ll find an array of restaurants, cute cafes and shops to browse.
My favourite spot to grab a coffee and bite to eat in Cobourg is The Pink Café! With a wall of roses and a ceiling of greenery, it begs to be on your Instagram feed! Plus, the food and drinks are just as photogenic.
If you’re planning a summer road trip, there’s a lovely beach in town. Many come from nearby towns to enjoy the Cobourg beach.
Ghost hunters like myself will love a stop at the King George Inn. This former jailhouse is one of the many haunted hotels in Ontario! If you dare, you can book a room for the night in one of their jail bunk bed suites.
Where to eat – The Pink Café
Recommended length of stay – 2 hours
The Big Apple
In 1987 a small bakery opened off Highway 401. Known for their amazing apple pies, The Big Apple is now one of the best Ontario roadside attractions!
The Big Apple has grown over its over 30 years of operation. But one thing has remained the same, the actually giant apple! Said to be the world’s largest apple, it stands 35 feet tall and has a diameter of 38 feet.
Growing up, I always loved spotting the Big Apple from the highway on our way to visit family in Ottawa. It’s still one of my favourite places to stop between Toronto and Ottawa.
Located off the highway, just north of the town of Colborne, the Big Apple is a must stop for foodies! It’s home to a sprawling market with every kind of apple creation you can imagine.
A few of my top picks for things to buy at the Big Apple include their apple cinnamon bread, freshly-pressed cider, and the apple fritters.
In addition to all thing apple, they also sell and assortment of other food items. There’s everything from local honey and maple syrup to jams. Plus, for tourists looking for souvenirs, you’ll find an array of items in their gift shop.
This place has grown a lot and in turn has a ton of fun things to do for families. Activities include a petting zoo, mini-golf, kiddie train rides, and more!
Recommended length of stay – 30 minutes to 1 hour
Brighton
The adorable small town of Brighton is a great stop, especially since County Road 2 runs straight through it. It’s an ideal stop for outdoor enthusiasts and culture seekers.
One of the main attractions is Presqu’ile Point Provincial Park. Known as one of the top places for birdwatching in the area, it’s also popular for hiking and camping.
If you’re planning to travel through town but want to add in a quick hike, I suggest the Marsh Trail. It takes along one of the province’s scenic boardwalks. Plus, its great for spotting birds.
In town you’ll find a number of places to eat and shops. I love that this small town has two bookshops! However, my favourite shop in Brighton is The Birdhouse Nature Store.
Along with bird feed and bird houses, this fun gift shop sells an array of items. There’s everything from puzzles to t-shirts with funny sayings on them.
Brighton is also home to a museum and theatre. The Brighton Barn Theatre has a charming setting. Plus, it’s right behind the Proctor House Museum.
Where to eat – Lola’s Cafe
Recommended length of stay – 1 to 2 hours
Belleville
Close to the halfway point on an Ottawa road trip from Toronto is Belleville. This city is a hidden gem that’s often overshadowed by its neighbour Kingston.
Belleville is a fun stop all year long but especially in the summer. During the summer they run Pop-Ups on the Bay. This event brings a number of local businesses to the lakeshore park, West Zwick’s Island Park.
Each are set within converted shipping containers. There’s everything from coffee shops to paddle rentals. Plus, the containers are full of colour and murals.
A visit to Reid’s Dairy is another must-do in the summer. For over 30 years, this giant castle in the city has been a staple for local ice cream.
You’ll also find a number of awesome city parks with trails. My favourite place to stroll is the Bayshore Trail. Running along the water, it offers a scenic view of the bay as well as over a turtle pond.
Another park that I’ve spent a lot of time in is Riverside Park. My cousin lives across the street from it and it offers winding trails along the river. Plus, it’s a great one for families to check out because its home to a pirate ship playground!
Foodies will find an incredible list of restaurants in Belleville. You’ll find everything from Italian to epic burgers. Plus, there are a number of cool places to drink, if you plan to stay the night. I highly recommend the Lark. This awesome cocktail bar has an eclectic vibe as well as fantastic food.
Where to eat – Burger Revolution and The Lark
Recommended length of stay – 1 day (3-4 hours will do if you’re looking for a quick stop)
Where to stay – Holiday Inn Express
Prince Edward County
One of the best places to stop on a Toronto to Ottawa drive is Prince Edward County! This sprawling island community is a short drive south of Belleville.
Prince Edward County is best known for their unique wineries. The County, as it’s often referred to, is home to charming wineries that are very unlike their Niagara counterparts.
You’ll find wineries in restored historic barns, with views of Lake Ontario, one even one with a speakeasy! Each one offers something different, including vegan options.
The best part is that you don’t need a designated driver because the County has wine tours available. A lovely van will pick you up from your accommodation and take you to a few different wineries.
However, there are more things to do in Prince Edward County beyond wine. It’s home to charming small towns like Picton and Wellington. Both of which are full of incredible places to eat.
Picton is also full of fun and unique shops along their main street. There’s also a museum and art gallery in town.
Another of the top attractions in the county is Sandbanks Provincial Park. It’s noted as one of the best provincial parks to visit in the summer. The park features incredible sand dunes, beautiful beaches, and a number of hiking trails.
Where to eat – La Condesa and Stella’s Eatery
Recommended length of stay – 1-2 days
Where to stay – The June Motel
Kingston
Home to striking 19th-century buildings, Kingston is a must stop for history buffs. Located along County Road 2, Kingston is also a short drive south of the 401.
This historic city is also home to many of Ontario’s most haunted buildings. So, I highly recommend visiting during the fall to take advantage of all the ghost tours.
A couple of the key sights, that are haunted, are Fort Henry National Historic Site and the Kingston Penitentiary. However, you don’t need to be ghost hunters to enjoy learning about the history of each.
Hop on one of Kingston’s Trolley Tours for a fun way to explore the city. Tours take you on a 1-hour cruise around the city where you’ll learn a ton of interesting facts.
Even if you’re not a big history buff, you’ll find a plethora of things to do in Kingston. The city is full of great museums, cute cafes, and some surprising hidden gems.
Where to eat – Miss Bāo Restaurant and Pizza Monster
Recommended length of stay – 1-2 days
Where to stay – The Rosemount Inn
Thousand Islands
One of the best Ontario road trips is through the Thousand Islands! So, it’s no surprise that I think you should add this stop to your Toronto to Ottawa drive.
With the main draw being the Thousand Islands National Park, the area is a popular summer destination. Visiting during the summer, you can take advantage of the numerous hiking trails and paddling options.
Another one of the top things to do in the Thousand Islands is take a cruise. There are a number of cruise operators that offer a range of tours.
The top cruise is the one that takes you to Bolt Castle. Set on an island, this incredible castle complex is part of New York State. So, pack your passport if you plan to take this cruise.
Whether you’re taking the scenic route to Ottawa or spending a few days in the region on your way, I recommend cruising the Thousand Islands Parkway.
This stretch of road along the St. Lawrence River offers plenty of scenic stops and lookouts. The best part is, you can drive it or cycle it!
Gananoque is the main town in the region and full of charm. You’ll find an abundance of things to do in Gananoque that suit everyone’s interests.
There’s a fabulous waterfront theatre and a couple of interesting museums to browse. Plus, downtown is full of cut cafes and great shops.
Where to eat – The Purple House Café and Riva
Recommended length of stay – 1-2 days
Where to stay – Gananoque Inn & Spa
Brockville
Before you leave the route along the St. Lawrence to head north, there’s one last stop to make, Brockville.
This city with small town charm is a great stop for history buffs and families. Plus, road trippers making a quick stop will love a wander along the waterfront.
Families with kids will love a visit to the Aquatarium. This science museum is full of fun interactive exhibits that focus on marine life.
Brockville is rich in history. Along with a wealth of historic buildings, there are a number of museums, like Fulford Place Museum.
The biggest attraction in the city is the Brockville Railway Tunnel. It’s the oldest railway tunnel in Canada and travels under downtown.
Apart from the historic draw, the tunnel also boasts a cool light and sound show. But one thing to keep in mind is that it’s open seasonally, from April to October.
Take a stroll through downtown Brockville. Its main street is lined with interesting shops like Heather & Crow and Book Trader. Plus, there’s a number of adorable cafes like Sweet Ofelia Café.
Where to eat – The Mill
Recommended length of stay – 2-3 hours
Alternative Toronto to Ottawa Drive Along Highway 7
The following stops are ideal for those taking the alternative route along Highway 7 to Ottawa. Alternatively, from the above route, taking ON-37 North in Belleville to Highway 7, you can access Highway 7 north of Bowmanville via 115.
Peterborough
A great first stop on a road trip to Ottawa along Highway 7 is Peterborough. This dynamic city is the perfect destination as there’s something for everyone.
History and culture seekers will find an art gallery and variety of museums, like the iconic Canadian Canoe Museum.
For a slice of history and innovation head to the Trent-Severn Waterway to witness the locks in action. And if you have more time, take advantage of one of their riverboat cruises.
Peterborough is a great place for families with kids too! One top stop is the Milltown Mini Golf Family Fun Centre. Along with mini-putt, highlights include batting cages, panning for gold and paintball.
Another spot families and animal lovers will enjoy is the Riverview Park & Zoo. The zoo features over 25 animal exhibits as well as a splash pad and mini-train.
Take a stroll through downtown Peterborough and you’ll find numerous boutiques and cozy cafes. Plus, there’s a long list of diverse restaurants serving everything from Mexican to Japanese.
Speaking of food. Those with a sweet tooth will want to stop at the Kawartha Buttertart Factory.
Where to eat – Kettle Drums
Recommended length of stay – 2-4 hours
Marmora
One of the many unique places in Ontario is located along Highway 7. The small town of Marmora is 45 minutes east of Peterborough.
Marmora is home to a few scenic parks in town that stretch along the river. Some of which are home to interesting historic pieces and sights.
The main attraction in this old mining town is the Marmoraton Mine. For nearly 30 years the mine was the life source for workers in town.
Stretching approximately 1700 by 1200 feet, with a depth of 600 feet, the open mine pit is massive. And after years of rainfall and underground streams, the pit is now filled with stunning crystal blue water. Interestingly, it’s now classified as a lake!
While you can’t get too close, as there’s a fence, it’s still an incredible sight to see!
Where to eat – Mine Town Food Truck (open seasonally)
Recommended length of stay – 1 hour
Silver Lake Provincial Park
An hour east of the Marmora Mine is Silver Lake Provincial Park. This great little park is the perfect spot for a short scenic hike.
Set directly on Highway 7, you’ll see Silver Lake before you reach the park. The park is home to over 100 campsites, one hiking trail, and a sandy beach.
The Marsh Trail is 0.5 km and takes approximately 30 minutes to hike. One thing to note is that it is not a loop, so you’ll have to return the way you came.
But this short trail features a stretch of boardwalk and is surrounded by dense forest and marsh. And if you want to extend your visit, Silver Lake Provincial Park offers canoe rentals. So, after your hike head to the office to rent a canoe for a tranquil paddle.
Insider Tip: 5 minutes before you reach the park is a rest stop on the north side of the road. This is an ideal stop to stop for a picnic, especially if you are not planning to visit the park. You’ll find picnic tables as well as large rock by the lake to sit on to enjoy the picturesque views.
Recommended length of stay – 1 hour
Perth
With a downtown full of historic stone buildings and a river running through it, Perth Ontario gives European vibes. Plus, with a number of things to do and see, it’s a must stop on a Toronto to Ottawa drive.
Perth is home to a quirky attraction, a Mammoth Cheese. Set behind Crystal Palace, this is a replica of a 22,000-pound block of cheese from 1893. But if you’re looking for real cheese, there is a local cheese shop in town.
Downtown Perth is ideal for wandering. Strolling through town, you’ll find an array of cozy cafes and fun shops. There’s everything from antique shops to stores selling books and clothing.
Code’s Mill, one of the many historic buildings in Perth, is filled with treasures. Inside is a boutique, restaurant as well as a chocolate and donut shop.
Across the street from the mill is Stewart Park. This green gem is beautiful to wander in the summer and fall. It features charming bridges and scenic views.
As one of the top day trips from Ottawa, Perth is close to the city. But it also feels a world away and perfect for a weekend getaway.
Where to eat – North Folk Café and Mex & Co.
Recommended length of stay – 1 full day (3 hours for a quick trip)
Where to stay – Best Western Plus Perth Parkside Inn & Spa
Carleton Place
Close to Ottawa, Carleton Place is one of the hidden gems in the area. Often overlooked for more popular destinations like Perth and Almonte, I think Carleton Place is just as incredible.
Many of the top things to do in Carleton Place are found right downtown. Take a wander along the main street and browse the unique shops. There are shops selling everything from vintage to local crafters.
Foodies will love Carleton Place! This town is full of fun and tasty food shops. You’ll find one of the best donut shops and an awesome German bakery.
There’s also a cool horror movie themed coffee shop, Deadly Grounds. And its home to one of the best places to eat in Lanark County, the Black Tartan restaurant. They offer unique dining experiences, but make sure you call to book reservations in advance.
Carleton Place has a mix of attractions and activities to engage all visitors. There’s an art gallery and museum in town. Plus, you can rent bikes at the visitor’s centre to tour town or hit the nearby trails.
Where to eat – The Good Food Company and Black Tartan
Recommended length of stay – 1 full day (2 hours for a quick trip)
Where to stay – The Grand Hotel
Itinerary Ideas for Ottawa Road Trips
Highway 401 Road Trip Itinerary Ideas
1 Day Fast Track Itinerary (5 hours of driving · 6 stops · 8 hours of exploring)
- Leave Toronto at 6am
- 1st Stop: Port Hope (2 hours – fish ladder, breakfast, browse shops downtown)
- 2nd Stop: Cobourg (1 hour – coffee, browse shops downtown)
- 3rd Stop: Big Apple (30 mins. – browse shop, grab apple cider and apple fritter)
- 4th Stop: Brighton (1.5 hours – Hike Marsh Trail, browse shops downtown)
- 5th Stop: Belleville (1.5 hours – lunch, browse shops downtown)
- 6th Stop: Brockville (1.5 hours – railway tunnel, café snack, & browse downtown)
- Arrive in Ottawa at roughly 7pm
7 Day Ottawa Road Trip Itinerary
- Leave Toronto
- 1st Stop: Port Hope (1 day/night)
- 2nd Stop: Cobourg (2 hour – coffee, art gallery, browse shops)
- 3rd Stop: Big Apple (1 hour – browse shop, play mini-golf, grab apple cider & apple fritter)
- 4th Stop: Brighton (2 hours – Hike Marsh Trail, lunch, browse shops downtown)
- 5th Stop: Belleville (1 day/night)
- 6th Stop: Prince Edward County (2 nights)
- 7th Stop: Kingston (1 day/night)
- 8th Stop: Thousand Islands (2 nights)
- Brockville (2 hours – railway tunnel, museum, & browse downtown)
- Arrive in Ottawa
Highway 7 Road Trip Itinerary Ideas
1 Day Fast Track Highway 7 Itinerary (5.5 hours of driving · 5 stops · 8.5 hours of exploring
- Leave Toronto at 6am
- 1st Stop: Peterborough (2.5 hours – breakfast, Canadian Canoe Museum, locks)
- 2nd Stop: Marmora (30 mins. – explore downtown park, Marmora Mine)
- 3rd Stop: Silver Lake Provincial Park (1 hour – hike & take a short paddle)
- 4th Stop: Perth (3 hours – lunch, browse downtown shops, stroll Stewart Park)
- 5th Stop: Carleton Place (1.5 hours – browse downtown shops, grab a coffee and donut)
- Arrive in Ottawa at roughly 8pm
3 Day Ottawa Road Trip Itinerary
- Leave Toronto
- 1st Stop: Peterborough (1 day/night)
- 2nd Stop: Marmora (1 hour – explore downtown park, Marmora Mine)
- 3rd Stop: Silver Lake Provincial Park (1 hour – hike & take a short paddle)
- 4th Stop: Perth (1 day/night)
- 5th Stop: Carleton Place (1 day/night)
- Arrive in Ottawa
Are you looking for more Canadian road trips?
British Columbia Road Trip Guide + 4 Great Itineraries
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