Top Places to See When Driving from (Old) Ottawa to Richmond Hill

Are you planning to take a road trip from (Old) Ottawa to Richmond Hill anytime soon? If yes, then you’ve come to the right place. This stretch of road will offer you a variety of attractions that will keep you entertained throughout your journey. From natural wonders to historical landmarks, each place on this list is worth a visit.

So, sit back, relax and fasten your seatbelt as we take you through the top places to see when driving from (Old) Ottawa to Richmond Hill.

The War Museum

The first stop on our list is the Canadian War Museum in Ottawa. This museum was built to remember and honor the brave soldiers who fought for their country in WWI, WWII, and other conflicts. The museum offers a glimpse into the life of soldiers during wartime through galleries that display artefacts, photos, and personal stories.

The museum has several interactive exhibits that let visitors get a hands-on experience. You can even board a replica of a World War I trench, walk through a Second World War battlefield, or explore a Cold War submarine. The museum is open every day from 10 am to 5 pm.

The Parliament Hill

The second stop on our list is the Parliament Hill in Ottawa. This iconic landmark is a must-visit when in the city. The Parliament buildings are the seat of government for Canada and the place where important decisions are taken. Visitors can take a guided tour of the buildings to learn about Canada’s history and the workings of its government.

The highlight of the visit is watching the Changing of the Guard ceremony that takes place every day during the summer months. From July 1st to August 24th, visitors can witness the colorful spectacle of the ceremony that involves the guards, the band, and the drill team.

The Thousand Islands

As you make your way from Ottawa to Richmond Hill, don’t forget to stop at the Thousand Islands. This breathtakingly beautiful region stretches for 50 miles along the St. Lawrence River and is home to over 1,800 islands. The best way to explore the islands is by taking a boat tour which will take you past the magnificent mansions, breathtaking scenery, and wildlife.

The islands offer an abundance of recreational activities like swimming, fishing, hiking, and camping. Stop by at Boldt Castle, which is one of the most famous islands in the region. The castle was built by a wealthy businessman as a tribute to his wife and is now open for public visits.

The Rideau Canal

The fourth stop on our list is the Rideau Canal in Ottawa. This historic canal is a masterpiece of engineering and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The canal stretches for 125 miles from Ottawa to Kingston and is home to 47 locks, 24 dams, and 19 water-management structures.

The best way to explore the canal is to take a boat tour or a walk along the banks. The canal offers an abundance of recreational activities like fishing, kayaking, skating, and sailing. Stop by at the Byward Market, which is situated near the canal, for some shopping and dining.

The McMichael Canadian Art Collection

The final stop on our list is The McMichael Canadian Art Collection in Kleinburg. This art museum is home to a vast collection of Canadian art and is a must-visit for art enthusiasts. The museum’s collection includes works of art from Tom Thomson, Lawren Harris, Emily Carr, and other famous Canadian artists.

The museum is situated in a beautiful woodland setting and offers several hiking trails, picnic areas, and an outdoor sculpture garden. The museum is open every day from 10 am to 5 pm. Don't miss out on a visit to this beautiful museum.

Conclusion

So, that's our list of the top places to see when driving from (Old) Ottawa to Richmond Hill. We hope this list will help you plan your road trip and make it a memorable one. Don't forget to take your time along the way and enjoy the journey as much as the destinations. Safe travels!