7 VIA Rail trips from Ottawa that take you to beautiful small towns
No car needed!
A historic city in Ontario. Right: A beach in Ontario.
Pack your bags and hop on board! There are so many enchanting small towns near Ottawa to visit and the best news is, you can get to these spots without a car.
These VIA Rail trips from Ottawa take you to dreamy villages and charming communities where you can enjoy a day or weekend away without a lengthy car ride.
You can spend your time exploring historic streets, sipping coffee at local cafes, soaking up some sun on sandy beaches and more at these quaint small towns.
Here are seven VIA Rail trips from Ottawa that take you to charming small towns.
Ottawa to Port Hope
Price: $98 + round trip
Why You Need To Go: You can take a VIA train to the quaint town of Port Hope, located about 3 and a half hours from Ottawa for a dreamy weekend escape.
This historic small town is full of charm. It's home to the "best-preserved heritage main street in Ontario," according to Northumberland Tourism and you'll feel like you've stepped back in time.
Don't forget to bring your bathing suit, because the town boasts a "gorgeous sand beach," according to the website, and is "filled to the brim with 19th century architecture and incredible stories."
You can spend some time lounging on the sandy beaches, exploring the main street and more during your stay. There are lots of cute boutiques and cafes to check out while in the area.
Ottawa to Gananoque
Price: $62 + round trip
Why You Need To Go: Just under 2 hours from Ottawa by VIA Rail, you'll discover the enchanting waterfront village of Gananoque.
You can enjoy a taste of Europe without hopping on plane a plane at this spot. The town offers old-world streets, unique attractions and sparkling water.
According to the website, you can enjoy "breathtaking views from all angles and discover the warmth and hospitality of the people that call this place home."
It's home to several beaches including Joel Stone Beach and Grass Creek Park, which is a short taxi trip from the downtown.
You can also explore the 1000 Islands by taking a cruise, go on a walking tour, or catch a show at the 1000 Islands Playhouse.
Ottawa to Cobourg
Price: $98 + round trip
Why You Need To Go: Dreaming of a beach getaway? You can hop on a train and take a trip to the beautiful town of Cobourg.
Located just over 3 hours from Ottawa, the small town boasts historic streets and a beach that will have you feeling like "you're sitting somewhere ocean-side in the Caribbean" as you lounge on the white sand shores, according to the website. The beach features vintage lifeguard stations that will transport you to another time.
The historic downtown area is full of quaint buildings and and you can spend the afternoon exploring the local shops and indulging at the restaurants.
You can also stroll along the pier, check out the farmers' market and wander along some of the surrounding trails.
Ottawa to Alexandria
Price: $48 + round trip
Why You Need To Go: Located under an hour from Ottawa, Alexandria is a tiny town in North Glengarry County offering lots of charm and tranquility.
The area is home to eateries, scenic trails and more, making it a beautiful spot for a day trip.
You can check out the Priest's Mill Art Centre where you'll find a gallery filled with local creative works.
You can also take a quick taxi ride to the nearby Stonehouse Vineyard, where you can sip boozy drinks on the patio or enjoy a tour of the winery.
You'll want to bring your bathing suit, because the town is home to a "lovely sandy beach" in Island Beach Park offering the "perfect mix of sun and natural shade, warm sand, crystal-clear water, and plenty of beautiful picnic spots overlooking the Mill Pond," according to North Glengarry.
Ottawa to Kingston
Price: $100 + round trip
Why you need to go: While Kingston is technically a city, the downtown area is full of small town vibes that make it an idyllic vacation spot.
Known as the "Limestone City," Kingston is a gorgeous summer escape and is a 2 hour train ride from Ottawa.
There's no shortage of things to do here.
The city is brimming with historic attractions, including Fort Henry, one of Ontario’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites where you can learn all about 19th-Century military life. You can also enjoy trolley tours and Penitentiary tours that offer more information about the city's past.
If you're in a mood to shop, you'll want to head to Princess Street. There are endless local stores to explore and you can find everything from clothing to gifts and antiques.
On a sunny summer day, the waterfront is a gorgeous destination to check out. You can also visit the Kingston Public Market which is known as the "oldest market in Ontario," and has been operating since 1801.
The city has a great food scene and there are so many drool-worthy restaurants to enjoy. For brunch, Pan Chancho Bakery & Café is a great option, and Wooden Heads Gourmet Pizza is the place to go if you're craving wood-fired pies.
Ottawa to Smiths Falls
Price: $40 round trip
Why You Need To Go: Perched along the shores of the Rideau Canal, Smiths Falls boasts "historic architecture, a vibrant downtown and friendly small-town charm," according to the website.
It's located just 45 minutes from Ottawa by train, so you don't need to go far in order to visit this spot.
You can check out the Railway Museum of Eastern Ontario, where you'll find unique locomotives and exhibitions.
You can also explore the Cataraqui Trail, which begins in Smiths Falls and leads through woodlands, past lakes and more.
The Heritage House Museum will take you back in time and features artifacts, exhibits and more about the town's past.
Ottawa to Greater Napanee
Price: $76 + round trip
Why You Need To Go: Located 3 and a half hours from Ottawa by train, Greater Napanee is a cute small town to visit for a weekend getaway.
The town is home to scenic trails and a boardwalk where you can take in some stunning views.
According to Naturally LA, you'll find "original shops and first-rate restaurants in its downtown core." You can browse through the boutiques and indulge in some delicious meals.
The Museum of Lennox & Addington is another fun spot to check out and offers lots of history about the area.
Before you get going, check out our Responsible Travel Guide so you can be informed, be safe, be smart, and most of all, be respectful on your adventure.
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