Trips Worth Taking

It’s good to shake up our routine. And as much as we love our favourite local parks, splash pads and museums, sometimes it’s fun to switch things up a bit. Call us crazy, but once in a while we like to do something unexpected, like leave the breakfast dishes in the sink and take off on a day trip with the family.

The trick to a successful day trip is keeping the drive to a manageable length, stretching our legs at regular intervals, bringing snacks (lots!), and most importantly, finding a compelling destination that fits our family’s interests.

Some of our favourite summertime day trips include Omega Park for the animal lover, Pinto Valley Ranch for those who like to horse around and Lusk Caves for those who like adventure. Movie buffs will enjoy Port Elmsley Drive-In and for those who like things a little zippier, you can always try ziplining.

Slow drives to pretty towns around Ottawa are nice, too. Whether the destination is Merrickville, Wakefield, or a spot for geocaching somewhere in between, you never know what you might find when you get out of the ‘hood.

This summer we’re gearing up for two new day trips that are tied to special events we don’t want to miss (that’s a two-fer).

We Ottawans love our summer festivals and carnivals. They’ve been around for many, many years and this summer, we’ll have a chance to experience what these events were like way back in the day. On August 6 and 7, check out a special showcase of 19th century-style entertainment at Upper Canada Village (about 90 minutes from Ottawa). With artisans, peddlers and vendors, a musical circus equestrian show, illusions and magic, and games galore, there should be something interesting for the whole family. (Make sure you don’t forget to buy a bag of their stone-milled flour while you’re there–it’s amazing.)

We’ve washed (and dried) enough rocks to know that our kids will really love the Hard Rock Weekend at Bonnechere Caves. It’s not that the caves in Eganville aren’t worth a special trip on their own (they are, and it’s only about 80 minutes from Ottawa), but on August 20 and 21, mineral experts will be bringing their collections for a show-and-tell you won’t want to miss. Kids are encouraged to bring a rock or two they’d like help identifying (perhaps you can just take a bunch from the laundry room) and afterwards go on a tour of the caves or enjoy a picnic lunch.

Looking for something new to do that’s a bit closer to home? Check out our new Event Finder for some inspiration for your next adventure. Happy travels! Tested by Andrea T., Ottawa

Comments