A Hidden Gem Just One Train Ride Away
Ottawa is a fantastic city to call home, but sometimes you just need a change of scenery — and it turns out that escape is closer (and cheaper) than you might think. A $26 VIA Rail ticket from Ottawa's main train station is all it takes to land yourself in Brockville, a stunning waterside town along the St. Lawrence River that genuinely looks like something out of a European travel brochure.
With its Victorian-era architecture, stone buildings draped along a scenic riverfront, and a distinctly old-world charm, Brockville has been quietly winning over day-trippers and weekend wanderers for years. It's the kind of place where you half-expect to see a canal boat drift by while you're sipping an espresso on a patio.
Why Brockville Feels So European
Brockville's appeal lies in its beautifully preserved downtown core. The streets are lined with 19th-century limestone buildings, ornate storefronts, and a waterfront that invites long, leisurely strolls. The town sits right on the banks of the St. Lawrence, and on a clear day the views across the water — dotted with the Thousand Islands — are genuinely breathtaking.
The architecture in particular draws comparisons to small towns in France, Belgium, and the UK. There's a reason Brockville has become a favourite backdrop for films and TV productions looking for a European aesthetic without the transatlantic flight.
The Train Ride Itself Is Part of the Fun
VIA Rail's corridor service between Ottawa and Brockville runs regularly, and the journey takes roughly an hour and a half — just long enough to enjoy the scenery rolling by without feeling like you're committing to a full travel day. At around $26 one-way (prices can vary depending on when you book), it's one of the most affordable getaways you can do from Ottawa.
No rental car, no highway stress, no parking headaches. Just board at Ottawa's train station on Tremblay Road, settle in, and watch the Ontario countryside unfold.
What to Do Once You Arrive
Brockville packs a lot into a small footprint. Here's what's worth your time:
- The Brockville Railway Tunnel — Canada's oldest railway tunnel and a must-see. It's been converted into a light and sound experience that's genuinely impressive.
- Centeen Park and the waterfront — Perfect for a walk along the St. Lawrence. Grab a bench and watch the freighters and pleasure boats pass.
- Downtown dining — The restaurant scene punches well above the town's size, with local spots serving everything from fresh seafood to craft cocktails.
- Fulford Place Museum — A stunning Edwardian mansion that's open for tours and gives you a real sense of the town's heritage.
Day Trip or Weekend Stay?
Brockville is easily doable as a day trip from Ottawa — you can catch an early train, spend six or seven hours exploring, and be back in the capital for dinner. But if you want to slow down and really soak in the atmosphere, staying overnight lets you experience the waterfront at golden hour and explore at a more leisurely pace.
Either way, it's one of those trips that feels far more indulgent than the price tag suggests. Ottawa residents are lucky to have something this charming sitting just 150 kilometres away.
Source: Narcity via Google News Ottawa RSS feed
