The Only Guide You’ll Ever Need For Your Toronto to Ottawa Drive
Hop in because we’re about to go on a drive from Toronto to Ottawa! Spoiler alert: our itinerary is a treasure trove of exciting spots to visit and hip eateries to try, ensuring the journey is a jam-packed adventure!
After all, what’s a road trip without fun, surprising detours?
We’re in charge of the adventure, so while you’re at it, don’t forget to whip up an upbeat playlist that could rival a sugar rush from one of our visits to a delicious donut shop ahead.
What Routes to Take During Your Toronto to Ottawa Drive
The Faster Route
Driving from Toronto to Ottawa typically takes around 4 hours and 20 minutes, making it tempting to go for the faster route.
If you opt for this path, make sure to start your journey by making your way to 401 East. After doing so, just follow the signs that will lead you to Ottawa.
It’s an easy journey, one that might not even require the assistance of navigation apps!
The Scenic Route
If you have 30 minutes to spare, you might want to check out the scenic route from Toronto to Ottawa. After all, you’re spending time on the road for almost 5 hours, so might as well make it enjoyable, right?
Anyway, rather than starting your journey at 401 East, try taking Highway 7 instead. Along the way, you’ll see spectacular sights of farms and hamlets.
Where to Stay During Your Toronto to Ottawa Drive
Motel 6 Kingston
Address: 1542 Robinson Ct, Kingston, ON K7P 0K4, Canada
Phone: +1 613-507-6666
Pricing: $
If you’re looking for a short stay during your road trip from Toronto to Ottawa, Motel 6 at Kingston is a wise choice.
You’re guaranteed clean rooms that come with all the necessary amenities, ensuring a comfortable stay. While there’s nothing fancy about it, the value for the price is definitely enticing.
Moreover, the location is also top-notch. It offers easy access to the highway while being around various delicious restaurants worth checking out.
Hampton Inn by Hilton Kingston
Address: 125 Innovation Dr, Kingston, ON K7K 7E6, Canada
Phone: +1 613-766-1122
Pricing: $$
If you’re willing to spend more on slightly more chic and comfortable rooms, you might want to check out Hampton Inn by Hilton Kingston.
Offering soundproof and spotless rooms, Hampton Inn is also accessible if you’re coming from Toronto with plans to go to Ottawa. Their amenities will ensure that you get plenty of rest before proceeding with your drive.
Super 8 by Wyndham Kingston
Address: 794 Kingston 2, Kingston, ON K7L 4V1, Canada
Phone: +1 613-549-1620
Pricing: $
Super 8 is another lovely addition to your array of choices during your Toronto to Ottawa drive.
The rooms are guaranteed affordable with inclusions of exciting amenities such as a pool, business center, BBQ grills, and more.
Oh, and the hotel being pet-friendly is also a huge plus!
Where to Eat During Your Toronto to Ottawa Drive
Coffee Way Donuts
Address: 472 Division St, Kingston, ON K7K 4B1, Canada
Phone: +1 613-546-9106
Pricing: $
Make sure to fuel up for the road by stopping for a quick, sugary bite at Coffee Way Donuts.
Located in Kingston, the most vibrant stopover between Toronto and Ottawa, it stands as an exciting detour that’s guaranteed to be well worth the trip.
Their donuts are fresh and high-quality, but you know what the best part is? There are a variety of flavors to choose from!
Toast and Jam
Address: 1530 Bath Rd, Kingston, ON K7M 4X6, Canada
Phone: +1 613-766-3423
Pricing: $$
Toast and Jam is a cool breakfast and brunch spot that offers a welcoming atmosphere. As expected, they have various breakfast classics available ranging from light meals to filling dishes.
Try their eggs benny to indulge in their finest offering.
River Mill
Address: 2 Cataraqui St, Kingston, ON K7K 1Z6, Canada
Phone: +1 613-549-5759
Pricing: $$$
River Mill is an upscale dining establishment that deserves its own trip. Nestled in a historical structure that has been around since the mid-’80s, they continue to wow their patrons with a unique, classic ambiance that stood the test of time.
Of course, their menu is also worth raving about. Order the grilled beef tenderloin to see what the fuss is about.
Crave Coffee House & Bakery
Address: 166 Princess St, Kingston, ON K7L 1B1, Canada
Phone: +1 613-766-7766
Pricing: $$
Crave Coffee House & Bakery is a Kingston local chain that quickly earned our stamp of approval as soon as we got a bite of their cinnamon buns.
You can tell that it’s freshly baked and the perfectly gooey center makes it a delightful treat. It’s also not overly sweet.
Don’t miss out on their various drink options too!
Atomica Kitchen/Cocktails
Address: 71 Brock St, Kingston, ON K7L 2Z9, Canada
Phone: +1 613-530-2118
Pricing: $$
Located in the bustling downtown of Kingston, Atomica Kitchen/Cocktails stands as a wise choice for those on the hunt for some Italian favorites and Mediterranean classics with modern twists.
Their fettuccine pasta is definitely the most memorable out of the bunch. And let’s not forget the dirty fried chicken bao, a warm bite promising a world of flavors.
Oh, and they also have a wide array of vegan food items on their menu, which is one of the reasons why they’re such a hot spot!
Here’s a foodie tip: to best enjoy the ambiance, try taking a seat on their lovely patio.
Cucina Urbana Italian Kitchen & Wine Bar
Address: 165 Division St #201, Cobourg, ON K9A 0B3, Canada
Phone: +1 905-377-9100
Pricing: $$
Cucina Urbana is one of our favorite restaurants in the middle of Toronto and Ottawa. Though it’s 3 hours away from our home base, we’d like to go on a drive every now and then just to visit this gem.
Their ambiance is outstanding, presenting a level of lavishness that’s well more than their price point. This sophistication extends to their delectable eats.
Our top recommendation is definitely the ravioli. The flavor changes every now and then, adding an exciting touch to anyone’s dining experience.
Make sure to ask your server about the treat you’re in for during your visit.
The Schnitzel Shack
Address: 3 Toronto Rd, Port Hope, ON L1A 3R4, Canada
Phone: +1 905-885-5551
Pricing: $
Get a chance to try a popular German dish with a Canadian twist at The Schnitzel Shack.
Their pork schnitzel is definitely one of the most outstanding ones that deserves a standing ovation. Nestled with the breaded pork are lettuce, tomato, and their homemade frite sauce.
Make sure to try one of their poutines as well!
Flame + Smith
Address:106 Bloomfield Main St, Prince Edward, ON K0K 1G0, Canada
Phone: +1 613-393-1006
Pricing: $$$
Flame + Smith is a hidden gem, often overlooked by a lot of people traveling from Toronto to Ottawa (and vice versa). We’re here to change that today.
This posh restaurant exudes a cozy feel, making you feel more inclined to enjoy its hearty wood fire dishes. You can never go wrong with the 8 oz cheeseburger, but the heirloom tomato tart is also an exciting choice.
Another popular option is the oysters, with a multitude of patrons raving about those.
Exciting Stopovers During Your Toronto to Ottawa Drive
Fairy Lake Park
Address: 520 Water St, Newmarket, ON L3Y 1M5, Canada
Phone: +1 905-895-5193
Located 40 minutes from Toronto and 4 hours away from Ottawa, Fairy Lake Park is an enchanting destination to see if you don’t mind a little detour.
It offers a rich array of opportunities for exploration for all ages, making it an exciting stop for the entire family. For starters, the 13.4-hectare space has a playground, picnic areas, and restrooms.
Furthermore, it’s also home to various wildlife, so expect to see them on one of the many trails.
Cameco Capitol Arts Centre
Address: 20 Queen St, Port Hope, ON L1A 2Y7, Canada
Phone: +1 905-885-1071
One hour into your journey, you’ll come across a thrilling performance venue that offers a lot of theatre, concerts, and on-screen shows. We’re sure theatre fans will love their time here.
For complete, show schedules, make sure to consult their website to help you plan accordingly.
Bonnechere Caves
Address: 1247 Fourth Chute Rd, Eganville, ON K0J 1T0, Canada
Phone: +1 613-628-2283
Outdoor adventurers, rejoice! There’s a cool attraction just an hour away from Ottawa called the Bonnechere Caves.
Chances are, you’ve heard about this mystical location, but if you haven’t yet, it’s an underground passageway that takes you through one of Ontario’s geological wonders.
And if that’s not enough to entice you, they also offer tours along the trail and underground dining that seamlessly combines nature and gourmet.
Cobourg Beach
Address: 138 Division St, Cobourg, ON K9A 3P3, Canada
Phone: +1 888-262-6874
Take a short break from your drive from Toronto to Ottawa and dip your toes in the water at Cobourg Beach.
It’s a vibrant location that features a white sandy beach with an equally dynamic boardwalk that includes a snack bar, a splash pad, playgrounds, and picnic areas.
Additionally, there are plenty of interesting restaurants to check out nearby so if you’re stopping by, allot an hour or two to see the neighborhood.
Frontenac Provincial Park
Address: 6700 Salmon Lake Rd, Sydenham, ON K0H 2T0, Canada
Phone: +1 613-376-3489
Frontenac Provincial Park is a well-known attraction for the assortment of activities you can do in the area. This includes fishing, hiking, camping, and nature watching.
Canoeing and kayaking are the most popular activities here though.
Don’t have the suitable gear? You can rent one in the area!
By the way, you also have the option to stay the night since there’s a campsite available.
If you like it here, make sure to also familiarize yourself with the best scenic spots in Ottawa to prepare for your visit.
Murphys Point Provincial Park
Address: 2243 Elm Grove Rd, Perth, ON K7H 3C7, Canada
Phone: +1 613-267-5060
Murphys Point Provincial Park is a striking natural destination known for its charming landscapes and rich history.
It’s also a coveted venue for hiking and skiing of any skill level. Additionally, it stands as a well-liked venue for camping during the warmer climate.
Burrville Cider Mill Inc
Address: 18176 County Rd 156, Watertown, NY 13601, United States
Phone: +1 315-788-7292
Another destination well worth the detour is Burrville Cider Mill Inc., a dynamic hotspot where you can try one of the best sweet apple ciders in the area.
If you manage to catch their tours (usually every Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday, and Sunday), you’ll get to see the process of how they make these delicious concoctions in the flesh.
They also sell an assortment of products, focusing on the use of cider. Make sure to try the cider donuts before you go!
By the way, they only open seasonally, so be sure to check out their website before you visit.