4-Day Ottawa and Surroundings Dog‑Friendly Itinerary (From Peterborough)

Day 1: Journey to Ottawa & Downtown Exploration

Morning: Depart Peterborough early and enjoy the scenic 5‑hour drive to Ottawa, stopping at a dog‑friendly rest area for a quick walk and water break. Upon arrival, check into a pet‑welcome hotel near the ByWard Market.

Afternoon: Stroll through the historic ByWard Market where many outdoor stalls welcome leashed dogs. Grab a bite at a patio café and let your pup sniff around the cobblestone streets.

Evening: Walk along the illuminated Rideau Canal pathway, a perfect spot for sunset photos with your dog. End the day with a relaxed dinner at a pet‑friendly restaurant overlooking the canal.

Day 2: Iconic Landmarks & Green Spaces

Morning: Visit Parliament Hill grounds; while interior tours are off‑limits to pets, the surrounding lawns and the Changing of the Guard ceremony are fully dog‑friendly.

Afternoon: Head to Major’s Hill Park for a picnic and let your dog explore the wide open fields and waterfront views of the Ottawa River.

Evening: Take a leisurely walk on the Rideau River Pathway, enjoying the calm waters and occasional street performances, before returning to the hotel for a quiet night.

Day 3: Gatineau Park Adventure

Morning: Cross the river to Gatineau Park for a dog‑friendly hike on the easy Laurel Creek Trail, featuring forested paths and a gentle creek.

Afternoon: Continue to the scenic Pink Lake overlook; dogs on leashes are welcome and the view of the turquoise water is spectacular.

Evening: Return to Ottawa and unwind at Brewer’s Park, where you can let your dog splash in the small splash pad while you enjoy a casual dinner from nearby food trucks.

Day 4: Cultural Highlights & Departure

Morning: Explore the outdoor grounds of the Canadian Museum of History across the river; the museum’s terraces and garden areas are pet‑friendly and offer great photo ops.

Afternoon: Visit Rideau Falls for a quick stop and a short walk along the promenade, perfect for a final canine adventure before the drive home.

Evening: Begin the return journey to Peterborough, stopping at a dog‑friendly diner for a hearty meal and a last stretch of the road before arriving home.

Time and Cost Estimates

• Drive Peterborough → Ottawa (round trip) – 10 hrs total – $60 (gas)
• Pet‑welcome hotel (3 nights) – 3 nights – $360
• Meals (dog‑friendly restaurants & cafés) – 4 days – $200
• ByWard Market & Canal walk (free) – 2 hrs – $0
• Parliament Hill grounds (free) – 1.5 hrs – $0
• Major’s Hill Park picnic – 2 hrs – $30 (food supplies)
• Rideau River Pathway (free) – 1 hr – $0
• Gatineau Park entrance (free for day use) – 5 hrs – $0
• Laurel Creek Trail & Pink Lake (free) – 3 hrs – $0
• Brewer’s Park & food trucks – 2 hrs – $40
• Canadian Museum of History terraces (free) – 2 hrs – $0
• Rideau Falls promenade (free) – 1 hr – $0
• Pet travel accessories (water bowl, waste bags) – one‑time – $15
• Total Estimated Cost: $705

Tips

If you’d like to extend the trip, add an extra day to explore the Ottawa River kayak tour (many operators allow dogs in kayaks) or visit the nearby Kingston Penitentiary for a historic tour. To shorten the itinerary, skip the Gatineau Park hike and replace it with a relaxed morning at Rockcliffe Park, which offers beautiful views and a short walking loop, saving both travel time and energy.