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Day Tripping from Ottawa: Discovering Carleton Place

Just 30–40 minutes from Ottawa, Carleton Place is the perfect day trip destination. From historic downtown strolls and riverside parks to top-rated eateries and unique hidden gems, this charming small town offers something for everyone. Bonus boutique stays if you want to linger a little longer!

Woman sitting cross legged smiling at the camera. Behind her are gongs and in front of her are metal bowls. The gongs and bowls are used in a sound bath for healing purposes.

Carleton Place is a charming small town located approximately 30-40 minutes west of Ottawa. A Carleton Place day trip is a perfect way to get out of the city. Discover historic sites, scenic nature walks, vibrant local culture, and delicious food. Whether you’re planning a quick escape or a relaxing overnight stay, Carleton Place has is all, like beautifully renovated boutique hotels and Carriage House-style Airbnbs, to make your visit extra special.

Table of Contents

Morning: Explore the Heart of Carleton Place

Start your Carleton Place day trip with a relaxed morning exploring the town’s historic core. The atmosphere here is peaceful and welcoming, perfect for a slow stroll, a bit of shopping, and a delicious breakfast.

  • Stroll Through Historic Downtown
    • Begin your visit on Bridge Street, lined with 19th-century buildings housing unique boutiques and cafes.
    • Don’t miss the Moore House, a historic building that is now the Visitor Information Centre.
  • Coffee and Breakfast
    • Stop by Foundry Coffee Bar or The Good Food Company for a coffee or tea to fuel your day.
    • Freska Café, a top-rated breakfast spot in Carleton Place, is a must-visit. But be sure to make a reservation ahead of time to guarantee a table. The menu and cozy vibe are well worth the effort!
Three plates of breakfast food with home fries, salmon and eggs on a table at Freska Carleton Place
Freska Breakfast
Photo of the inside of a cafe in Carleton Place. There is a table with green chairs in the front left corner of the photo, and a tan leather couch
Foundry Cafe

Midday: Embrace Nature and Local Attractions

Hopefully it’s a nice day so it’s time to get outside and soak in the natural beauty! This part of Lanark County is known for its river views, outdoor spaces, and local history.

  • Parks and Rivers
    • Enjoy a leisurely walk or picnic at Riverside Park, featuring a beach, splash pad, and scenic views of the Mississippi River.
    • Consider renting a kayak or canoe to float along the river.
    • Don’t miss Hackberry Park, a hidden gem tucked along Mill Street. It’s home to the largest grouping of hackberry trees in Eastern Ontario, an uncommon species believed to have been introduced by Indigenous peoples for their medicinal properties.
  • Carleton Place and Beckwith Heritage Museum
    • Delve into local history at the Carleton Place and Beckwith Heritage Museum. This museum has exhibits on the town’s past and its connection to Captain A. Roy Brown, credited with downing the Red Baron during WWI.

Afternoon: Culinary Delights and Shopping

Spend your afternoon tasting your way through Carleton Place’s culinary scene and shopping the town’s small but vibrant selection of boutiques and galleries.

  • Lunch at Local Eateries
    • The food scene in Carleton Place is seriously next level.
      • Dine at Black Tartan Kitchen for a farm-to-table experience.
      • Boulton House for riverside views and diverse menu options.
      • In the mood for sushi? Try Moore Sushi!
  • Explore Local Shops

Evening: Wind Down

Carleton Place’s riverside ambiance and cozy spots are perfect for unwinding before heading back to Ottawa. Or before tucking into your overnight stay.

  • Craft Beer Tasting
    • Visit Stalwart Brewing Company or Braumeister Brewing Company to sample locally brewed beers in a relaxed atmosphere.
  • Healing Sound Bath or Spa
    • Maplestone Ranch & Retreat is a new spa in town! With the nordic thermal experience, walking trails, a Maple Shop and horses, it’s the perfect place to wind down.
    • Book a private south bath with Anne-Marie, the Sound Yogi. Restore energetic vitality, manage pain, and enhance your body’s natural healing!
  • Sunset by the River
    • End your day with a sunset from one of the riverside spots.
Woman sitting cross legged smiling at the camera. Behind her are gongs and in front of her are metal bowls. The gongs and bowls are used in a sound bath for healing purposes.

Bonus: Make your Carleton Place day trip into a Getaway

Thinking of staying overnight? If you fall in love with with the town and want more time to explore, Carleton Place has some delightful small-town stays:

  • The Grand Hotel: A historic hotel located downtown, offering elegant rooms and close proximity to local attractions.
  • Carriage House Airbnb: A new and charming airbnb with a private hot tub and steam shower!
King size bed with tan, brown and green bedding. The wall behind the bed is a dark grey accent wall with peaceful beach photos on the wall. Carleton Place day trip

Hidden Gems

  • Carleton Place Community Labyrinth: Located behind the Carleton Place and Beckwith Heritage Museum, explore the gardens in a labyrinth!.
  • MARKED: Ultimate Family Adventure Park: Just outside of Carleton Place is a place with obstacle courses and adventure games. Perfect for a family day adventure!
  • One of Carleton Place’s oldest log homes, The Moore House now serves as the local tourism office.

Read more: 10+ Unique Getaways near Ottawa for an Exciting Weekend

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