The Top Five Places to Visit on a Trip Between (Old) Ottawa, Ontario and Brantford, Ontario

Are you planning a road trip from (Old) Ottawa, Ontario to Brantford, Ontario? Here are the top five places you wouldn't want to miss on your way!

The Route and the Halfway Point - Peterborough, ON

To start your trip, take Highway 7 from (Old) Ottawa towards Peterborough. Highway 7 is known for its scenic beauty, especially during the fall. Peterborough is the halfway point between Ottawa and Brantford and is a great stop for lunch or a quick break. You can explore the city's history, lakefront, and cultural attractions before continuing your journey.

Stop One: Canadian Canoe Museum

Paddle your way into history

Located in Peterborough, the Canadian Canoe Museum's vast collection of canoes showcases the country's canoeing heritage. The exhibits display canoes that have been used for recreation, transportation, and exploration. It's a perfect place for history buffs and outdoor enthusiasts. You can learn about the advancements in canoe technology, and even try your hands on handling a canoe.

Stop Two: West Montrose Covered Bridge

Step into the past

From Peterborough, take Highway 115 south to Highway 401. Take Highway 8 west to Kitchener-Waterloo, and then continue to West Montrose. The West Montrose Covered Bridge is one of the last remaining covered bridges in Ontario. It was built-in 1881, and it's a picturesque spot for photos. You can walk across the bridge and take in the stunning views of the Grand River.

Stop Three: Stratford Festival

Experience world-class theatre

The next stop on your trip should be Stratford, Ontario, home to the Stratford Festival. This world-renowned theatre festival takes place every year from April to October. You can choose from over a dozen productions, including classics like “Romeo and Juliet” and “The Tempest.” The festival also offers tours of the theatres and workshops for theatre enthusiasts.

Stop Four: Woodland Cultural Centre

Delve into Indigenous history

From Stratford, take Highway 24 south to Brantford. One of the must-visit places in Brantford is the Woodland Cultural Centre. It's a museum and cultural center of Indigenous history and a living gallery that showcases art, artifacts, and storytelling. You'll learn about Indigenous history, culture, and art while admiring the stunning art collection.

Stop Five: Bell Homestead National Historic Site

Discover the telephone's birthplace

Your final stop for the trip is the Bell Homestead National Historic Site, which is a fascinating place located in Brantford that celebrates Alexander Graham Bell's life and accomplishments. Bell lived here from 1870 – 1871, and the site preserves the house where he conducted many of his telephone experiments. Visitors can explore the picturesque homestead and learn about the invention that changed communication forever.

In conclusion, the trip between (Old) Ottawa and Brantford, Ontario is a scenic one, with plenty of interesting places to visit. These top five stops are perfect for those who want to explore history, art, culture, and natural beauty. Pack your bags and embark on a journey that you'll never forget!