The Top Places to See When Driving From (Old) Ottawa, Ontario to Gatineau, Quebec

Are you planning a road trip from Old Ottawa, Ontario to Gatineau, Quebec? This route is full of incredible places to visit along the way. From historical landmarks to natural beauty, this drive offers plenty of opportunities to explore.

To help make your journey more enjoyable, we've compiled a list of the top places to see when driving from Old Ottawa, Ontario to Gatineau, Quebec. Keep reading for some great suggestions on where to stop and what to see.

Parliament Hill

No trip to Ottawa would be complete without visiting Parliament Hill. This iconic landmark is located in the heart of downtown Ottawa and is home to some of Canada's most important government buildings. Visitors can take a guided tour of the Centre Block, which includes the House of Commons, the Senate, and the Library of Parliament. The Peace Tower, located at the centre of Parliament Hill, serves as a reminder of Canada's commitment to peace and security.

The Rideau Canal

The Rideau Canal is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a top tourist destination in Ottawa. The canal is a man-made waterway that stretches 202 km from Ottawa to Kingston, Ontario. Visitors can take a boat tour or rent a paddleboat to explore the waterway. In the wintertime, the canal turns into a giant skating rink, attracting thousands of visitors from around the world.

Canadian Museum of History

Located across the Ottawa River in Gatineau, Quebec, the Canadian Museum of History is one of the country's top cultural attractions. The museum offers a variety of exhibits that explore Canada's history and heritage, from the First Nations to present day. The building itself is a marvel of architectural design, with its grand entrance and striking copper roof.

Gatineau Park

Just a short drive from downtown Gatineau, Gatineau Park is a beautiful nature reserve that spans over 36,000 hectares. The park offers numerous hiking trails, lakes, waterfalls, and scenic lookouts. Visitors can also enjoy swimming, picnicking, camping, and fishing in the park.

Lusk Cave

Located in Gatineau Park, Lusk Cave is a popular destination for adventurous visitors. The cave is accessible by hiking through the forest and wading through a stream, but it's well worth the effort. Once inside, visitors can explore the stunning formations, including stalactites and stalagmites.

Omega Park

Omega Park is a wildlife sanctuary located in Montebello, Quebec, just a short drive from Gatineau. The park is home to a variety of Canadian animals, including bison, elk, wolves, and bears. Visitors can take a guided tour of the park in their own vehicle or take a guided wagon ride through the park.

Shawville Fair

Every fall, the Shawville Fair takes place in the town of Shawville, Quebec, just a short drive from Gatineau. The fair is one of the oldest agricultural fairs in Quebec and offers a variety of attractions, including agricultural displays, live music, a demolition derby, and a midway.

Mackenzie King Estate

Located in Gatineau Park, the Mackenzie King Estate is a fascinating historical site that was once the property of Canada's 10th Prime Minister, William Lyon Mackenzie King. Visitors can tour the estate and see the ruins of King's former residence, as well as the charming cottages that he built for his friends and family.

Wakefield Covered Bridge

The Wakefield Covered Bridge is a picturesque landmark located in the town of Wakefield, Quebec. The bridge spans the Gatineau River and is one of the few remaining covered bridges in Quebec. Visitors can walk across the bridge and take in the stunning views of the river and surrounding countryside.

Conclusion

Whether you're interested in history, nature, or just spending time outdoors, the drive from Old Ottawa, Ontario to Gatineau, Quebec has something for everyone. Be sure to visit some of these incredible destinations along the way to make your trip even more memorable.