End-of-Summer Road Trips from Ottawa
Family-Friendly Road Trips from Ottawa
Road trips! Let’s go! Who doesn’t love them. There’s something about the end of August that feels both golden and gently pressing, as if summer’s reminding us to make the most of it. The mornings are just a hint cooler, back-to-school shopping orders start arriving in the mail, and suddenly it’s time to squeeze in one last adventure before the routine takes over again.
If you’re in Ottawa, you’re in luck. Within just a few hours’ drive, there are dozens of easy road trips that offer a change of pace without the full vacation effort. Whether you’re traveling with toddlers, tweens, or teens, there’s something nearby that’ll let you wrap up summer on a high note—no flights or ferry schedules required.
Here are a few end-of-summer road trip ideas, all within three hours of Ottawa, and all family-friendly with just the right amount of fun, nature, and snacks.
1. Wakefield, QC – The Whimsical One (40 mins)
Wakefield feels like a postcard brought to life. Located in the Gatineau Hills, it’s a charming little village that’s just far enough to feel like an escape, without spending the day in the car.
Things to do:
- Stop at the Wakefield Bakery for warm cinnamon buns or grab some treats for a picnic.
- Visit the Fairbairn House Heritage Centre, which often has interactive exhibits and outdoor spaces for kids to explore.
- Walk the Wakefield Covered Bridge and toss stones in the river below—it’s a fun spot for photos and stretching legs.
Café patios, art shops, and easy hiking trails round it all out, making this a quick trip with lots of personality.
2. Bon Echo Provincial Park – Nature’s Playground (2 hrs)
Bon Echo is a classic choice for nature-loving families. Known for its towering Mazinaw Rock—covered in centuries-old Indigenous pictographs—it’s a place that offers both adventure and a sense of wonder.
What’s great for kids:
- A short canoe ride across the lake for up-close views of the rock art.
- Sandy beaches for swimming and digging in the sand.
- Easy hiking trails and lookout points with impressive views.
Camping is popular, but there are also nearby cabins and lodges for those who prefer indoor plumbing. Don’t forget bug spray, life jackets, and more snacks than you think you’ll need.
3. Merrickville – The Slow Down Day (1 hr)
Sometimes the best way to savour summer is with a slow, easy afternoon. Merrickville, often called one of Canada’s prettiest towns, is ideal for a laid-back day trip.
Family highlights include:
- Wandering the Rideau Canal path, watching boats come through the locks.
- Picking out old-fashioned treats at a candy shop.
- Stopping for homemade ice cream or a casual lunch on a shaded patio.
There’s also a great local toy store, artisan boutiques, and plenty of green space to sit and relax. It’s stroller-friendly, very walkable, and perfect for multi-generational outings.
4. Mont Tremblant – The Big Adventure (2.5 hrs)
For a slightly bigger trip that still works over a weekend, Mont Tremblant is a great pick. Late August often means fewer crowds, but the pedestrian village still feels alive with activity.
Things to do with kids:
- Take the gondola ride to the summit for panoramic views and mountain-top exploring.
- Let them burn energy at the village splash pad, mini-golf course, or ziplining stations (for the older kids).
- Relax by Lake Tremblant with swimming, paddle boats, and sand play.
- Eat at one of the many delicious local restaurants!
Hotels often offer end-of-season deals in August, and many have pools, family rooms, or kitchenettes to make meals easier. It’s an ideal “last hurrah” before school starts.
What to Pack in the End-of-Summer Road Trip Kit:
Whether it’s an afternoon in a small town or a few nights in the woods, a little prep goes a long way. Here’s a quick checklist to keep in the glove box (or your Notes app):
- Cooler with fruit, sandwiches, and juice boxes
- Reusable water bottles for everyone
- Change of clothes for each child
- Activity books, audiobooks, or a pre-downloaded playlist
- First-aid kit, sunscreen, bug spray, and hand wipes
- Garbage bags for car snacks and muddy shoes
And maybe a surprise snack or small toy for those moments when patience runs low.
Make It Count
There’s something special about these late-summer road trips. It’s not about checking things off a list—it’s about creating a pause before the busyness begins again. It’s about the impromptu ice cream stop, the roadside fruit stand detour, or the quiet walk around a lake just as the sun starts to dip.
Because the school year will come, and schedules will fill up. But there’s still time—just enough—to roll the windows down, find somewhere new (or familiar), and make one last summer memory.
So if you’re craving just one more adventure before the backpacks and routines return, the road’s right there. Ottawa may be home, but magic is just a few turns away.
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