Best Things to do on a Road Trip Between Ottawa and Charlotte

Ottawa, the capital of Canada, and Charlotte, a modern city located in the state of North Carolina, are both incredible destinations that are worth visiting. What is even more exciting is experiencing a road trip that connects the two cities.

The route from Ottawa to Charlotte is around 1,380 miles, and it takes approximately 22 hours to complete it. The halfway point of this journey is the charming town of Shippensburg, PA, located within the Cumberland Valley of south-central Pennsylvania. It is a great stop to enjoy some activities and rest before continuing on your adventure.

During your road trip, you will be able to enjoy breathtaking landscapes, beautiful small towns, and interesting cultural experiences. Here are the top five things to do on this road trip:

Visit the Niagara Falls

One of the most iconic landmarks in North America is the Niagara Falls, located about halfway between Ottawa and Charlotte. This natural wonder attracts millions of visitors from all over the world each year. You can take a boat tour, go on a helicopter ride, or simply enjoy the panoramic view of the falls from the observation deck.

Interesting fact: Niagara Falls is not just one waterfall, but a group of three waterfalls, and they are the most powerful falls in North America.

Explore Amish Country

Visiting the Amish country of Lancaster, PA, is like traveling back in time to the 1800s. This peaceful small town is home to the Amish community, and you can learn about their unique lifestyle, culture, and crafts. You can enjoy a horse-drawn buggy ride, visit a farm, or explore some of the historic covered bridges in the area.

Interesting fact: The Amish community practices a simple lifestyle that includes no electricity, no cars, and no modern technology.

Discover the Heart of Pennsylvania

Harrisburg, PA, is the capital city of Pennsylvania and it is located on the banks of the Susquehanna River. In this city, you can visit the Pennsylvania State Capitol, a beautiful and historic building with an impressive dome. You can also explore the State Museum of Pennsylvania, which showcases Pennsylvania’s history, culture, and natural wonders.

Interesting fact: Harrisburg is also known as the Chocolate Capital of the United States, as it is home to the Hershey’s Chocolate Factory.

Visit Richmond, Virginia

The city of Richmond, located in the Old Dominion state, is a beautiful and historic city with a lot of character. You can enjoy a scenic drive along the James River, or visit the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts, which boasts an impressive collection of art from around the world. Another must-visit is the Virginia State Capitol, where you can see the oldest legislative building still in use in the United States.

Interesting fact: Richmond was the capital of the Confederacy during the American Civil War.

Enjoy the Queen City

Last but not least, Charlotte is a vibrant and modern city that has something for everyone. You can visit the NASCAR Hall of Fame, explore the Mint Museum of Art, or enjoy a walk through the beautiful Freedom Park. If you are a foodie, you will love Charlotte’s culinary scene, which offers a diverse range of cuisines and styles.

Interesting fact: Charlotte is named after Queen Charlotte of Mecklenburg-Strelitz, who was the wife of King George III of Great Britain.

In conclusion, a road trip from Ottawa to Charlotte is an unforgettable journey that takes you through some of the most beautiful places in North America. You can enjoy a mix of natural wonders, cultural experiences, and historic landmarks. It is a trip that takes approximately 22 hours, but it is definitely worth the time. So buckle up, hit the road and enjoy the ride!