Best Road Trip Stops from Ottawa to Boston

What's better than going on a road trip and having the option of exploring new places, stopping wherever you like, and enjoying some quality time with your loved ones? Driving from (Old) Ottawa, Ontario to Boston, Massachusetts is an adventure on its own, as you pass through some of the most beautiful and historic cities in North America.

This route is a back-and-forth trip of about 800 kilometers (500 miles) that includes some of the best stops in the US and Canada. With plenty of parks, museums, natural wonders, and landmarks to see, it's impossible to run out of things to do on this amazing route. Here are some of the top places you can't miss while driving from (Old) Ottawa, Ontario to Boston, Massachusetts.

Must-See Stops on Your Drive from Ottawa to Boston

Lake Placid

The breathtaking Lake Placid is situated in the Adirondack Mountains of upstate New York, about a 4-hour drive from Ottawa. The town is a year-round destination and attracts tourists with its stunning scenery, clear waters, and a wide range of outdoor activities, including skiing, hiking, and fishing.

Lake Placid is also quite popular for hosting the Winter Olympics twice and its cultural significance can be found in the Olympic Museum, which features exhibits about the games and the athletes who have competed in them. Other notable attractions in Lake Placid include the Olympic Jumping Complex, which provides a great view of the ski jumps, and the Mirror Lake, where you can go for a leisurely stroll or paddle a kayak.

Vermont

No road trip from Canada to the US is complete without a visit to Vermont, the state famous for its cheese, maple syrup, and a charming countryside full of scenic byways and photogenic towns. From Burlington, the largest city in Vermont, you can easily make your way to picturesque towns like Woodstock, Stowe, or Manchester, where you can see a slow-paced lifestyle, enjoy a variety of artisanal shops, and admire the colorful foliage during the fall season.

One of the places you don't want to miss is the Ben & Jerry's Factory in Waterbury, where you can take a guided tour of the facility and sample some of their famous ice cream. If you prefer outdoor activities, head to the Green Mountain National Forest and hike the Long Trail, swim in one of the crystal-clear lakes, or have a picnic on the scenic overlooks.

Portsmouth

Portsmouth is a vibrant city located along the southeastern coast of New Hampshire, known for its naval shipyards, historic architecture, and cultural events. The city is surrounded by the Piscataqua River, which makes it an ideal spot for enjoying various waterfront activities like whale watching, fishing, or strolling on the harbor walk.

One of the most impressive landmarks in Portsmouth is the Strawbery Banke Museum, a living history museum that boasts dozens of 18th-century homes and a strong heritage dating back to the English settlers who founded the city. Other notable sites in the city include the USS Albacore Museum, showcasing a decommissioned submarine, and Prescott Park, which features beautiful gardens, picnic areas, and an amazing range of outdoor concerts.

Salem

Salem is a city of many faces, popular for its rich maritime history, Gothic architecture, and its association with the infamous Salem Witch Trials that took place in the late 17th century. The town is located about a 30-minute drive north of Boston, making it a perfect stop before spending the night in the city.

The best way to experience Salem is by taking a walking tour of the town, which can be self-guided or led by a local historian. Some of the stops on the tour include the Witch House, the oldest surviving structure associated with the trials, the House of the Seven Gables, the inspiration behind Nathaniel Hawthorne's novel, and the Salem Maritime National Historic Site, featuring a fascinating collection of historic ships and waterfront buildings. Salem is also full of antique shops, cozy cafes, and restaurants that serve a mix of local and international cuisine.

Boston

Finally, the last but most important stop on your road trip is the legendary city of Boston, the capital of Massachusetts, and one of the oldest and most significant cities in the US. Boston is a delightful blend of historic landmarks, world-class museums, quaint cobblestone alleyways, and a modern skyline full of sparkling skyscrapers.

Some of the must-see attractions in Boston include the Freedom Trail, a 2.5-mile trail that takes you to 16 historic sites related to the American Revolution, the Museum of Fine Arts, home to over 500,000 artworks from around the world, Fenway Park, the oldest MLB stadium still in use, and the New England Aquarium, which features over 20,000 marine animals. Boston also has a vibrant food scene, with plenty of seafood restaurants, ethnic eateries, and artisanal bakeries.

Conclusion

Driving from (Old) Ottawa, Ontario to Boston, Massachusetts is a journey full of surprises and fun, showcasing the cultural and natural wonders of the US and Canada. The route may take a while to complete, but it's worth every minute of it. With the above list of top places to see on your way from Ottawa to Boston, you can ensure that your trip will be an unforgettable one. Take your time, keep your eyes peeled, and enjoy the ride!