Points of Interest between Chatham, Ontario to Dartmouth, Nova Scotia

picture of Chatham, Ontario

Road Trip From Chatham, Ontario to Dartmouth, Nova Scotia

If you're planning a road trip from Chatham, Ontario, to Dartmouth, Nova Scotia, there are plenty of amazing places to visit along the way. Here are our top picks for museums, parks, and landmarks to make your journey memorable.

Did you know that the distance between Chatham, Ontario, and Dartmouth, Nova Scotia, is approximately 1,560 kilometers?

Halfway between Chatham and Dartmouth lies the beautiful city of Lévis, QC, located on the south shore of the Saint Lawrence River.

This road trip takes approximately 18-20 hours of driving time, depending on traffic, and can be broken down into smaller chunks if you don't want to drive straight through.

Top Five Places to Visit

  1. Niagara Falls - No visit to Ontario is complete without a stop at Niagara Falls. Witnessing the immense power of the falls as millions of gallons of water spill over every second is a sight to behold. There are also plenty of attractions and activities to enjoy in the surrounding Niagara Falls area, such as the Maid of the Mist boat tour and the Niagara SkyWheel. Along the route, we recommend stopping in Hamilton, Ontario, to visit the Royal Botanical Gardens.

  2. Old Quebec City – This charming city will transport you back in time with its cobblestone streets, quaint cafes, and stunning architecture. Walk through the city's fortifications and enjoy its European charm. Be sure to visit the Château Frontenac, a historic hotel that dominates the city's skyline. A popular point of interest along the route is the Montmorency Falls, which is taller than Niagara Falls and offers amazing views overlooking the Saint Lawrence River.

  3. Peggy's Cove – This picturesque fishing village is a must-see. Peggy's Cove Lighthouse, built-in 1915, is one of the most photographed lighthouses in the world. Watch the waves crash against the rocks and sample some freshly caught seafood at a local restaurant. A recommended point of interest stop along the route is the Halifax Citadel National Historic Site, which commemorates Halifax's defence from potential threats.

  4. Cape Breton Highlands National Park - This national park offers stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and the island's rugged coastline. Hike the Skyline Trail for excellent views and watch for whales in the waters below. The Cabot Trail, a scenic route that loops around the national park, is a must-do. Don't forget to see the massive statue of the Mi’kmaq people’s creator, Glooscap, who stands more than 41 feet tall, located at the Glooscap Heritage Centre.

  5. Bay of Fundy – The Bay of Fundy is famous for having the highest tides in the world, reaching a height of up to 52 feet. Witness the incredible power of the tides and visit nearby attractions such as the Hopewell Rocks, which are rock formations carved over time by the tides. At Cape Enrage Lighthouse, you can experience a unique zip-lining experience over the cliffs of the Bay of Fundy.

Point of Interest Recommendations

  • Hamilton, Ontario - Visit the Royal Botanical Gardens.
  • Montmorency Falls - Overlook the Saint Lawrence River.
  • Halifax Citadel National Historic Site - Commemorate Halifax's defence from potential threats.
  • Glooscap Heritage Centre - See the largest statue of the Mi'kmaq people's creator.
  • Cape Enrage Lighthouse - Experience a unique zip-lining experience over the cliffs of the Bay of Fundy.

Conclusion

Overall, this road trip from Chatham, Ontario, to Dartmouth, Nova Scotia, is a long but rewarding one. With plenty of fascinating museums, beautiful parks, and historic landmarks to visit along the way, this trip has something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a bit of adventure or just want to take in some breathtaking views, this journey is sure to leave you with fond memories that will last a lifetime.