Road Trip from Old Ottawa to Johnstown, Colorado: Discover the Best Sights and Attractions
Are you planning a road trip from Old Ottawa, Ontario to Johnstown, Colorado? If you are looking for a fun and exciting adventure, this 2,500-mile journey will offer you a chance to experience some of the most beautiful and exciting landscapes throughout Canada and the United States.
While some travelers prefer to take the fastest and most direct route between these two destinations, you can certainly make the most of your trip by adding a few stops along the way. In this blog post, we have compiled a list of top places to see when driving from Old Ottawa to Johnstown, Colorado.
The Best Spots to Visit While Driving from Old Ottawa to Johnstown
Niagara Falls, Ontario
- Located just a few hours' drive from Ottawa, Niagara Falls is a spectacular sight to see. The Niagara River cascades over a series of waterfalls, including the Horseshoe Falls, which is one of the largest waterfalls in the world, where you can take a boat tour or just enjoy the view.
- A good way to explore Niagara Falls and its surroundings is to take a leisurely walk along the Niagara River Recreational Trail or enjoy a wine tour in the nearby Niagara-on-the-Lake region, which is renowned for its exquisite vineyards and wineries.
- Don't miss the nighttime illumination of the falls, which light up in a beautiful spectrum of colors that make for a perfect Instagram shot.
Chicago, Illinois
- If you are willing to go a little out of the way, a stop at the vibrant and bustling city of Chicago is highly recommended. Known for its iconic skyline, deep-dish pizza, jazz clubs, museums, and galleries, Chicago is a cultural mecca that should be on any traveler's bucket list.
- Some popular attractions include the Willis Tower and its stunning sky deck, The Art Institute of Chicago, Millennium Park, Navy Pier, Museum Campus, and Wrigley Field, among many others.
- To fully enjoy what the city has to offer, taking a walking tour or a bike tour is recommended – you'll discover all types of hidden gems that guidebooks often miss.
Badlands National Park, South Dakota
- Located in western South Dakota, the Badlands National Park offers a unique and stunning set of landscapes that must be seen to be believed. With deep canyons, layered rock formations, and dramatic landscapes all around, this natural wonder is an irresistible attraction for anyone with an interest in geology, photography, or history.
- A scenic drive along the Badlands Loop Road or a hike through the Castle Trail allows visitors to experience the park's natural beauty up close. Many wildlife species call the park home, including bison, bighorn sheep, prairie dogs, and coyotes.
- In addition to the spectacular sights, visitors can also learn about the rich history of the area by visiting the Fossil Exhibit Trail and visiting the Ben Reifel Visitor Center, which offers exhibits, education, and programs.
Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado
- As you approach your final destination of Johnstown, the natural beauty of the Rocky Mountains is sure to take your breath away. Rocky Mountain National Park is one of the crown jewels of the national park system, offering visitors more than 400 square miles of towering peaks, rushing rivers, and alpine meadows to admire and explore.
- Hiking is a popular activity, with over 300 miles of trails to choose from, ranging from easy walks to challenging climbs. Visitors can also enjoy scenic drives, wildlife watching, and a variety of ranger-led programs.
- The park's scenic drive, Trail Ridge Road, is a must-do experience. It takes visitors above the tree lines and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
Estes Park, Colorado
- Located at the base of Rocky Mountain National Park, Estes Park has a charming and quaint atmosphere that will remind you of a small European town with friendly locals, quaint shops, and unique restaurants.
- Tourists that visit this delightful little mountain town can enjoy outdoor activities that include hiking, fishing, kayaking, and biking in some of the most beautiful landscapes in the world.
- Don't miss checking out Stanley Park, home to the iconic Stanley Hotel, with its grand colonial-style architecture and ghost tours – a favorite among participating thrill-seekers.
The Conclusion
This road trip journey has so much to offer, from natural wonders to bustling cities, and quaint mountain towns. Our carefully curated list features only a handful of spectacular sights that this route affords. We hope that this blog post gives you some inspiration for what to see and do during your journey from Old Ottawa to Johnstown. Happy travels!