Fall Getaways and Road Trips Near Ottawa

Although we love living in Ottawa, sometimes it’s nice to go on a little adventure and escape the city – especially to enjoy some glorious fall weather. We’ve previously shared some of our favourite day trip and mini vacay destinations for the summertime you can take with the kids (or solo even), and we’ve highlighted places to escape Ottawa’s winter when you need a change. But what about fall trips near Ottawa?

Maybe the outdoor pools won’t be open at some of these locations like in the summer, and skiing isn’t an option like in the winter, but planning a fall getaway in advance of what might be a very long winter is a great way to reconnect and feel refreshed together as a family.

Unlike some of our previous recommendations, these trips do require a bit more time for driving (or even to take the train!) but we think you’ll love them.

As the weather begins to cool and the leaves start to change, head out of the city for a fall family adventure — big or small…

Ideas for Fall Getaways & Road Trips Near Ottawa

Take a Trip to Toronto

If you are a sports loving family, Toronto may be THE place to be in the spring thanks to multiple major sporting teams and their home game schedules. The Blue Jays‘ play through September and it’s always a great day out at the ballpark.

Sports aren’t your thing? There’s no shortage of events and activities happening in Toronto. Visit the Toronto Zoo to see the animals, and enjoy some outdoor time, or check out the Royal Ontario Museum; it’s always a favourite.

Step into the Past (and Present) in Quebec City

Head East from Ottawa, cross the Ontario border into Quebec, and keep driving to Quebec City. A historic town filled with opportunity at any time of the year. Visit the Plains of Abraham Museum or one of the battlefield sites. Stroll in Old Quebec, which is described on the Quebec Tourism website as an ‘open-air museum’ (sounds perfect for kids!). The Aquarium du Québec is home to over 10000 marine animals with year-round indoor and outdoor activities. Or maybe you’ll want to plan your trip around Indigenous experiences by staying at a First Nations hotel and museum, or plan a guided tour (including a visit to a traditional longhouse) at the Huron‑Wendat Museum.

Make Memories in Niagara Falls

For a long time, Niagara Falls has been a popular tourist spot and for good reason. There is so much to do for families, including visiting the iconic Niagara Falls themselves. The six-hour plus drive from the Ottawa area will bring you to beautiful Niagara and the many food destinations and activities the area has to offer. With Lake Ontario accessible, you can stroll along one of the beach walkways, visit Niagara Falls itself, or enjoy a culinary experience and shopping in Niagara-on-the-Lake. Kids will love the Bird Kingdom, where they’ll come across reptiles and birds in the aviary. Another indoor option in case of unpredictable weather is to stay and play at Great Wolf Lodge waterpark. Want to get outside? Time your visit for when the leaves are fully changed get some glorious photo ops!