The Ultimate Road Trip: Top Places to See When Driving From (Old) Ottawa, Ontario to Los Angeles, California

There's nothing quite like the feeling of the open road stretching out in front of you, endless possibilities waiting to be explored. If you're planning a road trip from (Old) Ottawa, Ontario to Los Angeles, California, then you're in for a treat. This journey will take you through some of the most breathtaking scenery in North America, from the rugged beauty of the Great Lakes region to the sun-soaked beaches of California. To help you make the most of your road trip, we've compiled a list of the top places to see along the way.

Niagara Falls, Ontario

Your road trip begins in (Old) Ottawa, Ontario, and the first stop on our list has to be Niagara Falls. The falls are located just a couple of hours to the east of Ottawa, and they are one of the most iconic natural wonders in the world. Niagara Falls is actually made up of three separate waterfalls – Horseshoe Falls, American Falls, and Bridal Veil Falls – and the view from the Canadian side is truly awe-inspiring. You can take a boat ride on the Maid of the Mist, which will take you right up to the base of the falls, or you can explore the many attractions in the area, including the Skylon Tower and the Niagara Fallsview Casino Resort.

Chicago, Illinois

After Niagara Falls, it's time to head west towards Chicago, Illinois. Chicago is one of America's most vibrant and dynamic cities, and there is so much to see and do here. Take a stroll along the Magnificent Mile, where you'll find some of the city's best shopping and dining, or visit the world-famous Art Institute of Chicago. If you're a sports fan, then you won't want to miss Wrigley Field, home of the Chicago Cubs. And for those who love architecture, a visit to The Chicago Architecture Center is a must.

The Badlands, South Dakota

From Chicago, it's time to head out west. The Badlands in South Dakota is one of the most unique and otherworldly landscapes in North America. This incredible national park features towers of rock formations that stretch up towards the sky, as well as deep canyons and rich prairie lands. You can choose to hike through the park on one of the many trails or simply drive through and take in the magnificent vistas from your car. If you're lucky, you might even spot some of the park's resident bison.

Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming

No road trip out west would be complete without a visit to Yellowstone National Park. This stunning park is home to natural wonders such as the Old Faithful geyser, as well as an abundance of wildlife, including grizzly bears, elk, and wolves. Take a drive along the scenic Grand Loop Road, or hike one of the many trails through the park's rugged wilderness. And don't forget to keep an eye out for the park's famous hot springs and mudpots.

Las Vegas, Nevada

No trip to the west coast would be complete without a stopover in Las Vegas, Nevada. This famous city of lights offers something for everyone, from world-class dining and shopping to some of the best entertainment on the planet. Take a stroll down the famous Las Vegas Strip, where you'll find everything from luxury hotels and casinos to street performers and musicians. And don't forget to check out some of the city's famous shows, such as Cirque du Soleil or the Blue Man Group.

Los Angeles, California

And finally, after thousands of miles on the road, you'll arrive in Los Angeles, California. This is a city that needs no introduction, and there is so much to see and do here that you could spend weeks exploring. Take a stroll along the iconic Venice Beach Boardwalk, or head up to the Griffith Observatory for breathtaking views of the city below. Visit the famous Hollywood Walk of Fame, or take a drive up to Malibu for some of the best surfing and beachcombing in the world. Whatever you choose to do, Los Angeles is the perfect end to an unforgettable road trip.

Conclusion

So there you have it – our top picks for the best places to visit on a road trip from (Old) Ottawa, Ontario to Los Angeles, California. From the majestic beauty of Niagara Falls to the glitz and glamour of Las Vegas, this road trip has something for everyone. So pack your bags, hit the road, and get ready for the adventure of a lifetime!