Ottawa, Canada’s capital city, offers a wide range of activities and attractions that vary with the seasons. To help you plan your trip, here’s a breakdown of top things to do in Ottawa as of 2024. Whether you’re visiting in winter, spring, summer, or fall, there’s always something exciting to experience in this vibrant city.
- Winter Activities in Ottawa – (December – February)
- Spring Activities in Ottawa – (March – May)
- Summer Activities in Ottawa – (June – August)
- Fall Activities in Ottawa – (September – November)
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Winter Activities in Ottawa (December – February)
1. Skate on the Rideau Canal
Known as the world’s largest skating rink, the Rideau Canal Skateway stretches over 7.8 kilometers and offers an iconic winter experience. Locals and tourists alike flock to the canal to skate through the heart of downtown Ottawa, passing scenic views and historic buildings.
Bundle up and rent a pair of skates if you don’t have your own. Glide along the canal, stopping at rest areas to enjoy classic Canadian treats like hot Beavertail pastries or poutine. If you prefer not to skate, take a stroll on the adjacent pathways and snap photos of the winter wonderland.
Local Tips: Weekdays tend to be less crowded, and skating at sunset provides a beautiful backdrop with the city lights illuminating the canal. You can find skate rentals at various access points along the canal.
2. Celebrate Winterlude Festival
Winterlude, held annually in February, is Ottawa’s signature winter festival. It celebrates all things winter with exciting activities for all ages, including impressive ice sculptures, skating events, and interactive displays. The Snowflake Kingdom in Jacques-Cartier Park is especially popular for families, offering giant ice slides and snow sculptures.
Take a stroll through Confederation Park to admire the artistry of ice sculptors, or head to Lansdowne Park for musical performances and food trucks serving up winter comfort foods. For kids (and the young at heart), spend an afternoon at Snowflake Kingdom, where you can race down the slides and enjoy family-friendly activities.
Local Tip: Dress warmly in layers and arrive early to beat the crowds, especially on weekends.
3. Cross-Country Skiing and Snowshoeing in Gatineau Park
Just a short drive from downtown Ottawa, Gatineau Park transforms into a winter wonderland. It offers more than 200 kilometers of groomed trails for cross-country skiing, as well as dedicated trails for snowshoeing and winter hiking. It’s the perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts looking to embrace winter.
Rent equipment from nearby shops in Chelsea, Quebec, and head out for a day of cross-country skiing. The Champlain Lookout provides breathtaking winter views of the Ottawa Valley, making it an ideal spot to pause and soak in the scenery. If skiing isn’t your thing, try snowshoeing along forested trails or go for a peaceful winter hike.
Local Tip: For a cozy end to your day, visit Le Nordik Spa-Nature, North America’s largest spa, located just minutes from Gatineau Park. Unwind in their outdoor hot baths surrounded by snow-covered trees.
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Spring Activities in Ottawa (March – May)
1. Visit the Canadian Museum of Nature
As the weather starts to warm up, a visit to the Canadian Museum of Nature is the perfect way to explore Canada’s natural history. The museum’s exhibits cover everything from dinosaurs and ancient marine life to Canada’s diverse ecosystems and wildlife.
Explore the museum’s extensive fossil collection, discover Canada’s birds in the Bird Gallery, and interact with live creatures in the Butterfly Jungle. As of 2024, new interactive exhibits provide an immersive experience for visitors of all ages, making it a great family-friendly outing.
Local Tip: Plan your visit in the afternoon to take advantage of free admission after 4:00 p.m. on Thursdays.
2. Explore the Ottawa Tulip Festival
Every May, the city of Ottawa comes alive with color during the Canadian Tulip Festival. This event celebrates the historic ties between Canada and the Netherlands and features over one million tulips blooming across the city.
Stroll through Commissioners Park at Dow’s Lake to see rows of vibrant tulips in full bloom. Take a boat ride on the lake for a unique view of the tulip displays or participate in a photography workshop to capture the beauty of the festival. Enjoy cultural performances, music, and food vendors offering both local and Dutch-inspired treats.
Local Tip: Visit early in the morning to catch the flowers in full bloom and avoid the crowds. Be sure to bring a camera to capture the stunning displays.
3. Biking along the Rideau Canal and Ottawa River Pathways
With the arrival of spring, Ottawa’s network of bike paths becomes a popular way to explore the city. The scenic routes along the Rideau Canal and Ottawa River Pathways offer stunning views of downtown Ottawa and its waterways.
Rent a bike from a local shop like RentABike and explore at your own pace. The pathways are perfect for casual cyclists, with plenty of spots to stop for a picnic or take photos of scenic views. Don’t miss Hog’s Back Falls for a refreshing stop on your journey.
Local Tip: Pack a light jacket and a water bottle, as spring weather can be unpredictable with cool mornings and warm afternoons.
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Summer Activities in Ottawa (June – August)
1. Tour Parliament Hill and Witness the Changing of the Guard
During the summer months, Parliament Hill becomes a focal point for visitors with guided tours and ceremonies like the Changing of the Guard. This tradition, which takes place daily from late June to late August, offers a glimpse into Canadian heritage and military history.
Take a guided tour of the Parliament grounds to learn about Canada’s government and the architectural significance of the buildings. After witnessing the Changing of the Guard, explore the grounds and visit the Centennial Flame for a photo opportunity.
Local Tip: Arrive by 9:45 a.m. for a good spot to watch the Changing of the Guard. Stay until the evening for the Northern Lights show, a multimedia spectacle projected onto the Parliament buildings.
2. Enjoy the Nightlife and Culture on Elgin Street
Elgin Street, also known as “Sens Mile,” is a bustling hub of nightlife and entertainment in Ottawa. As of 2024, the street features new venues offering everything from craft cocktails and local brews to live music and comedy shows.
Start your evening with dinner at Town, a trendy spot known for its modern takes on classic dishes. Then, head to The Manx Pub for a cozy vibe and a selection of local craft beers. For late-night fun, catch a live band or comedy show at Live on Elgin.
Local Tip: Take advantage of happy hour deals at local pubs and stay for the vibrant nightlife scene, especially on weekends.
3. Take a Cruise on the Ottawa River
Summer is the perfect time to hop on a boat cruise along the Ottawa River, offering stunning views of Ottawa’s skyline, Parliament Hill, and historic landmarks like Rideau Falls and the Château Laurier.
Choose a guided tour to learn about the city’s history and architecture or opt for a sunset dinner cruise for a romantic evening. These cruises provide a different perspective of Ottawa and offer photo opportunities with panoramic views of the city’s landmarks.
Local Tip: Book your cruise tickets in advance, as evening and sunset cruises tend to sell out quickly.
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Fall Activities in Ottawa (September – November)
1. Visit the National Gallery of Canada
With the crisp fall weather, visiting the National Gallery of Canada is a great way to explore art while enjoying the city’s autumn colors. The gallery houses an extensive collection of Canadian, Indigenous, and international art, including contemporary exhibits as of 2024.
Stroll through the permanent collection and visit new exhibitions that showcase contemporary Canadian artists. Take a break in the outdoor garden to admire the fall foliage and snap photos with the Maman sculpture.
Local Tip: On Thursdays, the gallery offers free admission to its permanent collections from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., making it a budget-friendly evening activity.
2. Hike in Gatineau Park to See the Fall Foliage
Gatineau Park, located just a short drive from Ottawa, is a prime destination for fall foliage viewing. The park’s trails provide breathtaking views of the vibrant fall colors, especially at lookout points like Champlain Lookout and Pink Lake.
Spend a day hiking scenic trails such as the King Mountain Trail, which offers a panoramic view of the Ottawa Valley. Don’t forget to bring a camera to capture the stunning landscape. If you prefer a leisurely experience, drive along the Gatineau Parkway for beautiful views.
Local Tip: Visit in early to mid-October to catch the peak foliage, and pack layers as the weather can be chilly in the mornings and evenings.
3. Attend Cultural Festivals and Markets
Fall in Ottawa is marked by cultural festivals and vibrant markets that celebrate the city’s diversity and harvest season. Events like Nuit Blanche Ottawa-Gatineau offer an all-night arts and culture experience, featuring interactive exhibits, performances, and public art installations. Meanwhile, the city’s farmers’ markets, such as the ByWard Market, come alive with seasonal produce, baked goods, and handmade crafts.
Visit Nuit Blanche to explore Ottawa’s art scene and enjoy performances by local artists. During the day, head to ByWard Market to shop for fresh produce, seasonal flowers, and artisanal products. Take time to chat with local vendors and try fresh-made treats like apple cider donuts or pumpkin pie.
Local Tips: The market is busiest on weekends, so consider visiting early in the morning for a more relaxed experience. Also, check the calendar for other fall events, like the Ottawa International Animation Festival and Beau’s Oktoberfest.
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