This enchanting small town near Ottawa with mini waterfalls looks like a fall fairytale
If you’re looking for the perfect autumn day trip from Ottawa, this charming small town with vibrant fall foliage should be at the top of your list.
Just a short drive from the city, you can visit a European-like destination that transforms into a red and gold wonderland as the seasons change.
Located on the shores of the Mississippi River, Carleton Place is a small town full of old-world streets, quaint shops and cute cafes.
The town is a quick and easy day trip from Ottawa, located just 35 minutes from the downtown area in Lanark County. Despite its proximity, the town feels like a world away, with historic 19th-century limestone buildings and a charming setting on the river.
Known for its history and culture, Carleton Place has been called one of the province's cutest small towns by Ontario's Highlands.
While it's a stunning spot to visit year-round, come fall, the town transforms into a picture-perfect autumn wonderland, with red, orange and gold trees, and even a few mini waterfalls that make it look like something out of a storybook.
The town offers many trails where you can admire the changing leaves. For some of the best leaf peeping, visitors can take the Mississippi Riverwalk Trail, which follows the river from Princess Street to Anthony Curro Park.
The 1.9-kilometre trail crosses multiple bridges over marshy areas and through stunning fall foliage. Hikers can also connect with the Trans Canada Trail on this route.
The Ottawa Valley Recreational Trail is another great way to see the autumn leaves. The 296-kilometre trail is a multi-use corridor stretching from near Smiths Falls to just shy of Mattawa, with several beautiful lookouts and access points throughout the Carleton Place stretch.
Located on historic Mill Street along the Mississippi River, you'll also find Hackberry Park. The park is home to the largest grouping of Hackberry trees in eastern Ontario, which turn to shades of bright yellow in the fall.
One of the most magical spots to soak in the season is right along the Mississippi River downtown. Here, you can see a series of small rapids surrounded by fiery orange and golden leaves.
Take a stroll across the Central Bridge or head to Riverside Park for a peaceful view of the water.
When you've had your fill of nature, head to Carleton Place's downtown area for cute shops, restaurants, galleries and more to see and do.
The town offers plenty of cozy cafes where you can grab a hot drink. To keep the fall vibes going, step into the Dark and Deadly Cafe, which offers a quirky, spooky atmosphere with meticulously designed horror-themed decor.
While in the area, be sure to check out the seven wonders of Carleton Place, which, according to Discover Lanark County, include Carleton Place Town Hall, the Moore House (one of the oldest log homes in town), and the St. James Anglican Church.
Carleton Place also embraces the fall season with fun local events and markets. Until mid-October, you can visit the Carleton Place Farmer's Market and discover fresh produce, baked goods and handcrafted treasures.
The first weekend of October, the town also hosts its annual Pumpkinfest, three days of festive fun with games, night markets, pumpkin-themed activities, live music, tasty bites and more.
Whether you're chasing fall foliage, looking for a scenic day trip, or just want to sip a pumpkin-spiced latte by the river, Carleton Place delivers tons of charm.
With its scenic setting, vibrant trees, and storybook streets, this little town near Ottawa feels like stepping straight into a fall fairytale.
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.
