Top Five Best Places to Visit on a Trip Between Charlottesville, Virginia and (Old) Ottawa, Ontario
Traveling from Charlottesville, Virginia to (Old) Ottawa, Ontario is an incredible journey that offers stunning scenery, vibrant cities, and hidden gems for those willing to venture off the beaten path. Here are our top five must-visit destinations that you won't want to miss on your next road trip:
Halfway Stop: Pittston, Pennsylvania
As you make your way north, Pittston, Pennsylvania marks the halfway point between Charlottesville and Ottawa. This charming town is worth a stop for its rich history, stunning architecture, and delicious food. Take a stroll through the historic downtown area, be sure to stop by the Pittston Tomato Festival in August if you're in town, and if you're a fan of pizza, be sure to visit Revello's Pizza - a local legend.
Stop 1: Niagara Falls, Ontario
As you cross the border into Canada, your first stop should be the breathtaking Niagara Falls. The Falls are one of the most iconic natural wonders in North America and are a must-see destination on any road trip in this area. Be sure to take a boat tour to get up close and personal with the magnificent Falls and snap some incredible photos.
Stop 2: Toronto, Ontario
From Niagara Falls, it's a short drive to Canada's largest city - Toronto. There is so much to see and do in Toronto that you'll probably need a few days to fully experience it all. Visit the CN Tower for panoramic views of the city, wander through the vibrant neighborhoods of Kensington Market and the Distillery District, and catch a Toronto Blue Jays baseball game at the Rogers Centre.
Stop 3: Ottawa, Ontario
After exploring Toronto, it's time to hit the road again and make your way to the final destination - (Old) Ottawa. This charming city is the capital of Canada and is full of history, culture, and natural beauty. Be sure to visit the Parliament Buildings, take a stroll through the Byward Market, and enjoy a sunset walk along the Rideau Canal - a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Stop 4: Kingston, Ontario
If you have some extra time on your road trip, a stop in Kingston is definitely worth your while. This historic town is situated on the eastern end of Lake Ontario and is full of stunning architecture, charming boutiques, and delicious dining options. Take a tour of the Kingston Penitentiary, visit Fort Henry National Historic Site, and be sure to stop by Chez Piggy for lunch.
Stop 5: Charlottesville, Virginia
After exploring (Old) Ottawa and hitting up a few smaller towns in between, it's time to head back to where you started - Charlottesville, Virginia. This quintessential college town is full of history, charm, and natural beauty. Take a stroll through the University of Virginia's stunning campus, visit Monticello - the former home of Thomas Jefferson, and enjoy some live music at one of the many local venues.
Pack your bags, load up the car, and embark on an unforgettable adventure on this road trip between Charlottesville, Virginia and (Old) Ottawa, Ontario. With the perfect mix of natural beauty, historic charm, and vibrant cities, there's something for everyone on this journey.