Great Summer Day Trips & Mini Getaways Near Ottawa
As the warm days of summer gently wind down, there’s no need to rush into saying goodbye to fun and adventure just yet. Embrace the remaining weeks before school starts with last-minute family day trip or mini getaways near Ottawa and head out on unforgettable excursions close to home. These exciting adventures promise to create great memories, lots of laughter, and tons of fun. Let’s make the most of these summer moments together!
Day Trips & Mini Getaways Near Ottawa
Chelsea, QC
Embark on a last-minute family day trip and explore Chelsea, QC, just a short drive from Ottawa. Try Camp Fortune‘s ziplining and coaster for mountain fun. Get a morning treat at Les Saisons (don’t forget coffee for parents!) or grab pizza from Chelsea Pizza and savor it in Gatineau Park (or both!) The trails in Gatineau Park will invite you to explore or head to the beach with 2 options at Meech Lake. Lastly, don’t miss ice cream at La Cigale. Enjoy a day of family fun and great food!
Montebello, QC
Take a fun day trip to Montebello, Quebec, a charming little town. Spend most of your day at Parc Omega, a nature place where you can get close to Canada’s animals, and make sure to bring lots of carrots to feed them too! You can buy food there or bring your own picnic and definitely don’t miss watching the amazing wolves! Afterward, make sure to stop by Le Bistro Montebello, a family favorite, to grab a delicious bite to eat. It will be a super fun day for the whole family!
Brockville, ON
Set off on a last minute family day trip to Brockville and discover the Aquatarium’s hands-on activities and aquatic animals (meet “Justin Beaver”!) Explore the Railway Tunnel and Travelling Bricks Exhibition for added fun. Indulge in delicious baked goods at Tait’s Bakery, a local favorite since 1908, and enjoy dinner from the 1000 Island Brewing Company. Get ready for a day filled with excitement and cherished moments for the whole family!
Kingston, ON
Visit Kingston, a beautiful city by the water, filled with great food and hidden gems to explore. If your kids are older, take a tour of the Kingston Penitentiary or visit Fort Henry as a family. Treat yourselves to Woodenheads Pizza’s delicious wood-fired pizza. End the day with a leisurely walk by the water with a Beavertail in hand that you can find by the Town Square.
Granby, QC
Wake up early and set off on a day trip to Granby. The Granby Zoo & Water Park is only a few hours away. Get there for opening and indulge in a full day of adventure, and still return home before dusk. Don’t miss the added bonus of a free amusement park area and the water park that is all included in your admission.
Montreal, QC
Catch the opportunity for a spontaneous day trip to Montreal! This lively city is perfect for exploration – you’ll stumble upon performances, street artists, and festivals at every corner. Alternatively, enjoy family fun at La Ronde or the BioDome. Montreal promises an exciting experience whether you wander its streets or opt for structured attractions.
Syracuse, NY
Though Syracuse requires a 3-hour drive from Ottawa, it’s absolutely achievable! Depart by 6 in the morning, enjoy the entire day, and be on your way back by 8 p.m., arriving home before midnight. Make sure to grab a delicious treat from Glazed and Confused Donuts, explore Target and Destiny Mall for shopping, and have a blast with kids’ activities like bowling, glow-in-the-dark mini-golf, mirror mazes, and arcades at Destiny Mall. Before heading home, don’t miss the chance to dine at Dinosaur Bar-B-Que. It’s a day trip that’s worth the journey!
Watertown, NY
Don’t want to drive all the way to Syracuse? Watertown is also an option and a littler closer to travel to. Explore the New York State Zoo at Thompson Park, where kids can see various animals up close. Enjoy a fun-filled day at the Burrville Cider Mill, complete with cider tastings, apple picking, and delicious treats or take a stroll along the beautiful Thompson Park trails. You will also find a Target here for some shopping and fill up at the Olive Garden for a family dinner before heading home.
Saint Sauveur, QC
Set off on a last-minute family day trip and experience a variety of summer fun in Saint-Sauveur. Dive into excitement at Mont Saint-Sauveur Water Park or wander through the village’s quaint boutiques and eateries. No matter what you decide, you will enjoy the local charm! For outdoor leisure, head to Parc John-H.-Molson’s picnic spots, sports, and the tranquil beauty of this area.
Merrickville, ON
Visit Merrickville for a leisurely day by the river, observing boats passing through the Rideau Locks. Stroll through the village, explore local shops, and savor the many dining options (and don’t forget about the ice cream!). It’s one of the most perfect getaways near Ottawa for unwinding and making the most of your day!
