Roadtripping from Centre Wellington to Ottawa: Museums, Parks, and Landmarks to Visit
Are you looking for an adventure? A road trip from Centre Wellington to Ottawa is the perfect way to explore Ontario's charming towns and stunning scenery. Get ready for a scenic drive full of beautiful sights, historic landmarks, and must-visit museums and parks.
Did you know that Centre Wellington is just a four-hour drive from Ottawa? This route is a popular destination among locals and tourists alike, and for good reason. It offers breathtaking views that begin with rolling hills and end with the stunning Parliament Hill. Along the way, there are numerous places to stop and explore, and we've rounded up the must-see sites.
As you approach Trenton, ON, the midway point between Centre Wellington and Ottawa, you'll see a military base that has a rich history. The Canadian Forces Base Trenton is home to several military aircraft and is the largest base in Canada. This base was involved with search and rescue missions during 9/11.
The drive from Centre Wellington to Ottawa is just over 400 kilometers, making it a perfect weekend or long-weekend trip. You can easily break it up into two or more days to explore more places and spend more time relaxing.
Here are the top five places to visit on your road trip from Centre Wellington to Ottawa:
Bon Echo Provincial Park (Cloyne, ON) Bon Echo Provincial Park is a stunning park with a vast lake and massive cliffs that are over 160 feet tall. The park is perfect for nature lovers that want to spend time hiking, swimming, canoeing, or camping. The view from the top of the cliffs is spectacular, and there are many trails to follow to get there. Make sure to stop and enjoy the park's quiet, serene atmosphere.
National Air Force Museum of Canada (Trenton, ON) The National Air Force Museum of Canada is a must-visit place. This museum tells the story of Canadian aviation and showcases an incredible collection of historic aircraft. Visitors can tour the cockpit, participate in interactive exhibits or take a helicopter ride.
Point of interest recommendation: Check out the engines that have survived crashes, and imagine what it was like to be aboard those planes.
- Parliament Hill and the Rideau Canal (Ottawa, ON) Parliament Hill is a symbol of Canada's democratic government and a vital place to visit while in Ottawa. This park-like setting includes a beautiful plaza, Victorian Gothic architecture, and stunning views of the Ottawa River. Along with Parliament Hill, the Rideau Canal is a recognized UNESCO World Heritage Site. The canal is a popular spot for skating in the winter, and boat tours in the summer.
Point of interest recommendation: Walk behind the Parliament building, and you'll see the fantastic views. Plus, don't forget to take a tour of the Parliament buildings.
- Canadian Museum of History (Gatineau, QC) The Canadian Museum of History is one of the most popular museums in Ottawa and a must-visit. It is situated across the Ottawa River in Gatineau, Quebec, and focusses on Canadian and world history. The museum has a massive collection of artifacts, including a full-size reproduction of a Wooly Mammoth and the world's largest indoor collection of totem poles.
Point of interest recommendation: Take in the view of the parliament buildings and the Ottawa River from the tower on the 3rd floor.
- Gatineau Park (Gatineau, QC) Gatineau Park is a vast and beautiful park located just a short drive from downtown Ottawa. It's perfect for a day trip or a weekend getaway. The park features more than 361 square kilometers of hiking trails, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and other outdoor activities.
Point of interest recommendation: Check out the Mackenzie King Estate, a picturesque property that was once the summer residence of Canada's 10th Prime Minister.
If you're planning on seeing all these spots in one go, we suggest planning your trip ahead of time. Pack light, exercise caution, and plan for extra time in case you get taken in by the surrounding beauty.
In conclusion, embarking on a road trip from Centre Wellington to Ottawa is a great way to explore Ontario's natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture. With the many attractions to see, the trip is worth taking time off work. The journey spans over 400 kilometers along some of Canada's most scenic routes, giving visitors plenty to see and do. Whether you're planning to make a quick weekend trip or a more extended outing, this route is sure to offer something magical and memorable for everyone.