Top Five Popular Attractions to See on a Trip Between Brockville and (Old) Ottawa
Welcome to the perfect getaway for exploration enthusiasts! This scenic adventure will take you from Brockville to Old Ottawa, revealing some of the most exciting attractions Ontario has to offer. Join me on this journey as we explore the top five popular attractions you should add to your itinerary.
The Route & Halfway Point: Kemptville, ON
Starting at the charming town of Brockville, a stop at Kemptville will break up the journey just right. Kemptville is a peaceful town located halfway to Ottawa, making it an ideal spot to take a break and grab a coffee. The town is known for its rich history, architecture, and art scene. Take a stroll down the colorful streets to admire the murals of local heroes. If you're visiting in the summertime, visit Kemptville Farmers' Market, where you can find freshly picked fruits and vegetables, baked goods, and handmade goods.
Top Five Places to See List
1. Merrickville Lockstation
Just a twenty-minute drive from Kemptville, you'll find the historic Merrickville lockstation. This world-famous site showcases Canada's heritage through its engineering marvel, the Rideau Canal. Here, you can watch as boats navigate through the locks while learning about the canal's construction history. Take a guided tour to experience the canal's beauty and engineering up close. Be sure to visit the Visitor's Center, the perfect place to purchase souvenirs and gifts!
2. Watson's Mill
Watson's Mill is located a few minutes from Merrickville Lockstation and is one of the town's famous landmarks. The building's architecture is enough to leave visitors speechless and its millstones are impressive. A guided tour will take you through four floors of the building, including the corporate office, the large and small mills, and the miller's residence. Don't forget to take a picture at the footbridge across the millpond, which is beautiful!
3. Rideau Canal Skateway
In the colder months, the Rideau Canal is transformed into the world's largest skating rink. The Rideau Canal Skateway is seven and a half kilometers long, perfect for skating or strolling. Take in the breathtaking views of the historic downtown area and the shimmering lights reflected on the snow. The Rideau Canal Skateway is an opportunity like no other!
4. National Gallery of Canada
Located in downtown Ottawa, the National Gallery of Canada is a vibrant and stimulating cultural space. The gallery displays a range of world-renowned Canadian art and architecture and offers educational programs and guided tours. Both permanent and unique temporary exhibits display a fantastic collection of contemporary art to old masters. Don't forget to visit the gallery's gift shop to purchase unique souvenirs before leaving.
5. Byward Market
The final destination for this journey is the Byward Market, one of Ottawa's most popular attractions. It is Ottawa's oldest market, and it's not hard to see why it has stood the test of time. Visitors will be greeted to a buzzing hub of activity with specialty shops, local artisans' workshops, and gourmet kitchens that serve up so many delightful treats. The market hosts events, including musical performances, farmer's markets, and art exhibitions. It's the perfect place to find that perfect souvenir to take home.
Best Route
Ontario Highway 416 is an excellent route to use when travelling from Brockville to Kemptville. It provides a convenient way to bypass the urban areas of Prescott and Spencerville when travelling south. Continue on to Merrickville Lockstation, Watson's Mill, and the Rideau Canal Skateway, and on to Ottawa.
In conclusion, Ontario has a lot of hidden gems waiting to be discovered, between Brockville and Ottawa. Visiting these top attractions in this list guarantees to bring the journey to life and make it unforgettable. Enjoy!