RIDE THE OCEAN TO HALIFAX

If your ancestors crossed the Atlantic, you’ll likely find a piece of family history at the Canadian Museum of Immigration at Pier 21 in Halifax ( www.pier21.ca). Start in Montreal, where Via Rail’s Ocean train departs. Book a sleeper-plus class car that accommodates two, check in at the station and, after you board, toast your journey in the Renaissance lounge. The two-day trip follows the shore of the St. Lawrence; the glass-domed Park car allows for panoramas as you near the ocean; on-board dining and entertainment help speed the journey. Make it easier upon arrival: just roll the luggage down the hall to the Westin Nova Scotian Hotel ( www.thewestinnovascotian.com), adjacent to the Halifax train station, then hoof the 10-minute walk to Pier 21. Right off the boat will take on a whole new meaning after you spy the photos of the ship Granddad came in on. www.viarail.ca

In Old Montreal, where the cobbles meet the cultural vibe, William Gray is set to open this month. Housed in two historic buildings, its insides are as contemporary as its bones are landmark; leather and glass mix with metal and wood for a modern men’s club edge. And Mr. Gray? Turns out he was the sheriff of these parts back in the day and one of the buildings, his home. www. hotelwilliamgray.com

If you’re the type that likes to have Rover in tow, Alt Hotel Ottawa by Le Germain is pooch friendly, and its Slater Street location is a walk away from Parliament Hill (political intrigue!), the ByWard Market (pubs, eateries, discos!) and many of the city’s top museums and galleries. Perhaps you can teach an old dog new tricks! www.althotels.com/ en/ottawa