Tourist routes in Eastern Ontario: hidden gems and unexpected stops
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Login to AnswerLast summer I took a road trip from Ottawa down toward the St. Lawrence, and I was surprised how many little spots I’d never even heard of before. One tiny town had this bakery that felt like stepping back in time. I’m planning another weekend trip soon, and I’d love to hear about places that don’t usually make the “top 10 lists” but are worth pulling over for.
I totally get that vibe. On my last drive, I ended up stopping at a family-run antique store just outside of Brockville, and it was the highlight of the day. Sometimes the best parts of a trip are the unplanned ones. I usually check out eastern ontario local business before heading out — it helps me find those out-of-the-way shops and restaurants that you’d never stumble on otherwise.
What makes those drives so memorable is the mix of landscapes and the little surprises along the way. A quick stop can turn into an hour or two of exploring if you let yourself wander. It’s not always about the big attractions but about discovering the stories behind small towns and the people who keep them alive.