Top Five Best Places to Visit on a Trip Between Brampton, Ontario and Ottawa, Ontario

Are you looking for the perfect getaway to escape the hustle and bustle of the city? Look no further than this list of the top five best places to visit on a trip between Brampton, Ontario and Ottawa, Ontario. Read on to discover the hidden gems along the way and make your next road trip unforgettable.

The Route and Halfway Point: Belleville, ON

The drive from Brampton to Ottawa takes about four hours, depending on traffic. As you cruise through lush forests and idyllic towns, you'll reach the halfway point- Belleville, ON. Nestled in the heart of Quinte Region, Belleville is a friendly city that offers a relaxing stopover with plenty of sights to see. This town is home to the Bay of Quinte, where you can watch sailboats and fishing boats glide across the waters as you enjoy a picnic. The city also features stunning architecture, vibrant gardens, and a wide range of dining options, from casual cafes to upscale restaurants. You'll find plenty of accommodations in the area, but if you're looking for something unique, try the cottage rentals along the shores of the Bay.

The List of Each Stop

1. Prince Edward County

   • Drive time from Belleville: 20 minutes
   • Situated on the shores of Lake Ontario, Prince Edward County is a charming island community that is easily accessible by car. This region is known for its fantastic wineries, and you'll find plenty of places where you can stop to taste and purchase local wine. Beyond vineyards, there are plenty of attractions in Prince Edward County, including the Sandbanks Provincial Park, where you can swim, hike, and even camp. Be sure to check out the numerous galleries, antique shops, and cafes located throughout the region.

2. Kingston

   • Drive time from Prince Edward County: 1 hour
   • Kingston is a small city with a lively downtown and a rich history. It's known as the "limestone city" because of its beautiful limestone buildings, many of which were constructed in the 19th century. One must-see attraction is the 200-year-old Kingston Penitentiary, which offers guided tours to the public. Other notable sites include the Fort Henry National Historic Site, the Canadian Museum of Health and Science, and the Kingston Farmers' Market, which is open every Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday.

3. Perth

   • Drive time from Kingston: 1 hour and 15 minutes
   • If you're looking for a picturesque destination, then look no further than Perth, Ontario. This tiny town is renowned for its historic buildings and charming storefronts, offering a rare glimpse into the past. The town is situated on the Tay River and maintains the beauty of historic architecture while offering modern restaurants, nightlife, and shops, arts and music festivals. The best part of Perth is that it has something for everyone, whether you're interested in sports, nature, or shopping.

4. Merrickville

   • Drive time from Perth: 30 minutes
   • The next stop on our list is the quaint village of Merrickville. This community is home to numerous boutique shops, art galleries, and cafes, providing visitors with an exciting shopping experience. You can take a walk down the main street, taking time to check out the local shops, or explore the nearby Fairgrounds Conservation Area if looking for some scenic trails. If you want to take in the area, it's a trip on the beautiful Rideau Canal that Merrickville is most famous for. The canal provides an opportunity to relax and take in the spectacular scenery while exploring the engineering feat necessary to manage waters from Kingston to Ottawa through locks and dams.

5. Wakefield

   • Drive time from Merrickville: 1 hour
   • Our final destination on this journey is the small village of Wakefield, Quebec. This town is situated on the Gatineau River and offers stunning views of wooded hillsides and pristine waterways. Wakefield is also home to the famous Blacksheep Inn, a live music venue that has attracted top performers from around the world. If music isn't your thing, be sure to take a stroll around the town's old-fashioned streets, which are lined with restaurants, art galleries, and craft shops. Nature lovers may want to visit the stunning Gatineau Park, a 363-square-kilometer park located just south of Wakefield, which offers plenty of opportunities for hiking, kayaking, and wildlife watching.

Conclusion

Now that you've discovered the top five best places to visit on a trip between Brampton, Ontario, and Ottawa, Ontario, you're ready to hit the road and explore. Whether you're looking to explore bustling cities or photograph scenic paths, there's sure to be something for everyone along the way. Be sure to spend time relaxing at the halfway point, Belleville, ON, and then hit the road to discover the charm of Prince Edward County, Kingston, Perth, Merrickville, and Wakefield. Happy travels!