Points of Interest between Brantford, Ontario to Petawawa, Ontario

picture of Brantford, Ontario

Top Places to See when Driving from Brantford, Ontario to Petawawa, Ontario

Looking for a scenic driving route that connects Brantford, Ontario to Petawawa, Ontario? Then you should consider driving the Highway 17, which passes through several towns in Central Ontario and offers breathtaking views of nature along the way. On this route, you can find several historical landmarks, charming towns, and provincial parks that provide an opportunity to experience a different side of Ontario. To help you plan your trip, here are some top places to see when driving from Brantford, Ontario to Petawawa, Ontario.

Exploring Smiths Falls

As you start your journey up Highway 17 from Brantford, Ontario, you will find yourself in Smiths Falls, a town known for its picturesque setting on the Rideau Canal. Once here, stop by the Railway Museum of Eastern Ontario, where you can learn about the history of trains and their impact on the region. After that, visit the Heritage House Museum, which is an 1859 stone farmhouse restored to its original condition, where you can learn about the daily lifestyle of a typical family in the 19th century. If you love the outdoors, then make sure to visit the nearby Victoria Park, which features a waterfall and offers hiking trails that provide an opportunity to enjoy nature at its best.

Taking in the Beauty of Algonquin Provincial Park

As you continue on your journey along Highway 17, make a pit stop at the magnificent Algonquin Provincial Park. This park is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna and is one of the largest provincial parks in Ontario. It offers a wide range of activities such as hiking, camping, canoeing, and fishing, making it the perfect place for outdoor enthusiasts. It's also an ideal place for wildlife watching, with the possibility of spotting animals such as moose, beavers, and wolves.

Visiting Pembroke

As you approach Petawawa, Ontario, you will come across the charming town of Pembroke, located on the Ottawa River. This town has a rich history and is home to a variety of cultural sites that are worth visiting. One of the must-visit sites is the Champlain Trail Museum, which showcases the history of the Ottawa Valley through an extensive collection of artifacts and exhibits. If you are looking for some outdoor fun, then check out the Algonquin Trail, which is a popular hiking and cycling trail located in the heart of Pembroke. Additionally, Pembroke is also home to the Annual Pembroke Fiddle and Step Dance Competition, which is a popular cultural event that draws visitors from all over the world.

Discovering the Rich Heritage of Petawawa

Finally, as you reach the end of your journey, you will find yourself in the beautiful town of Petawawa, Ontario. This town is known for its scenic beauty and rich cultural heritage. It is also home to several iconic landmarks that are worth visiting, such as the Petawawa Point Lighthouse, which is the only inland lighthouse in Ontario. Another landmark of note is the Petawawa Heritage Village, which is an open-air museum that showcases the daily lifestyle of early pioneers and is home to several historic buildings. Additionally, the town is also home to the Garrison Petawawa Military Museum, which offers a glimpse into the history of Canada's military.

Other Places to Consider

  • Merrickville - a charming town with many well-preserved 19th-century buildings, perfect for history buffs.
  • Calabogie Peaks - outdoor enthusiasts who love adventure should consider a stop here for skiing, zip-lining, and rock climbing.
  • Ottawa - a major tourist attraction with landmarks such as the Parliament Hill and the Byward Market.

Conclusion

As you can see, Highway 17 offers several exciting destinations for travelers seeking a scenic drive through Central Ontario. From the historic landmarks of Smiths Falls, the natural beauty of Algonquin Park, and the cultural sites of Pembroke and Petawawa, this journey provides a fantastic opportunity to experience the best of Ontario. So pack up your car, grab some snacks, and hit the road to discover the riches that await you on this journey.