The Ultimate Road Trip: Top Places to See When Driving From (Old) Ottawa, Ontario to City of Albany, New York

There's nothing more exciting than hitting the open road with the wind in your hair, favorite tunes playing on the radio, and a sense of adventure in your heart. If you're planning a road trip from (Old) Ottawa, Ontario to the City of Albany, New York, you're in for a treat. The journey takes around 5 hours, making it perfect for a weekend getaway or a week-long vacation. To ensure the trip is memorable, here is a list of the top places to see when driving from (Old) Ottawa, Ontario to the City of Albany, New York.

Exploring Nature

Adirondack Park

Located in Upstate New York, Adirondack Park is a must-visit natural destination on your road trip. With its vast wilderness, stunning lakes, and breathtaking peaks, the park offers beautiful scenery and endless opportunities for outdoors adventures. You can hike the famous High Peaks, paddle the beautiful lakes, or simply take a scenic drive through the winding roads. Don't forget to keep your eyes peeled for wildlife, including moose, deer, and black bears.

Thousand Islands

If you're a fan of water and islands, then a visit to Thousand Islands is a must. Situated between Canada and the United States, this archipelago boasts around 1,800 islands, each with unique features and charms. You can take a boat tour, rent a kayak, or go fishing in the crystal-clear waters. Other attractions include Boldt Castle, the Antique Boat Museum, and the Thousand Islands Bridge.

Howe Caverns

Want something a little different? Head to Howe Caverns, located in upstate New York. These caverns are underground natural wonder, full of stalactites, stalagmites, and underground pools. You can take a guided tour that lasts 90 minutes and features a boat ride on an underground lake, trekking through narrow passageways, and viewing geological formations you have never seen before.

Historic Sites

Saratoga Springs

Saratoga Springs is the perfect stop for those interested in historic sites. This charming town, located in upstate New York, was a crucial location during the Revolutionary War and played host to numerous important political and cultural figures throughout history, including the likes of Franklin D. Roosevelt. While here, you can take a stroll through the Victorian Era downtown shopping district, visit the beautiful parks and lakes, and tour the historic racecourse and casino.

The Roosevelt Estate

If you're a history buff, a visit to the Roosevelt Estate is a must. Located in Hyde Park, NY, the estate is where Franklin D. Roosevelt was born, grew up, and is buried. The property spans more than 1,800 acres, including a museum, mansion and library where visitors can get an insight into the life and legacy of FDR. The estate is open to the public for visiting every day of the year, except for Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year.

Local Cuisine

The Maple Leaf Restaurant

When touring Canada, one of the most important meals of the day is breakfast, and, without a doubt, the Maple Leaf Restaurant in Old Ottawa proves to be one of the best places to grab your morning meal. Established in 1932, the restaurant provides an excellent combination of traditional food and friendly service in a cozy atmosphere.

The Yellow Deli

The Yellow Deli, located in Oneonta, New York, is a must-visit restaurant due to its charming atmosphere and delicious food. The restaurant mainly works as a cafe with healthy food offerings made on-site. The location of the restaurant is in an interesting yellow building, which is known for its unique architecture and inviting atmosphere.

Conclusion

There you have it, the best places to see on a road trip from (Old) Ottawa, Ontario to City of Albany, New York. From natural wonders such as the Adirondack Park and Thousand Islands to historic sites like Saratoga Springs and the Roosevelt Estate, there's something for everyone. Don't forget to fuel your journey with scrumptious local cuisine, such as breakfast at Old Ottawa's Maple Leaf Restaurant and the delicious offerings at the Yellow Deli in Oneonta when in New York. Hit the open road and enjoy the ride!