Ottawa, the capital city of Canada, is a wonderful place to visit any time of the year. However, when the weather is nice, it’s even better. During the spring, summer, and fall months, there are plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy. Whether you’re a resident or a visitor, there’s something for everyone in Ottawa.
In this article, we’ll explore some of the best outdoor activities to enjoy in Ottawa. From biking to hiking, we’ll cover it all.
Rideau Canal
The Rideau Canal is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most popular attractions in Ottawa. During the winter months, it’s the world’s largest skating rink. But during the summer, it’s a great place to bike, walk, or run. The canal runs through the heart of the city and offers stunning views of the city’s architecture and natural beauty.
Gatineau Park
Located just a short drive from downtown Ottawa, Gatineau Park is a must-visit destination for outdoor enthusiasts. The park offers over 90 km of hiking trails, as well as mountain biking, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and more. Whether you’re looking for a challenging hike or a leisurely stroll, there’s a trail for everyone in Gatineau Park.
Ottawa River
The Ottawa River is a great place to enjoy water sports like kayaking, canoeing, and stand-up paddleboarding. There are plenty of rental companies in the area that offer equipment and guided tours. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can even try white water rafting on the river.
Major’s Hill Park
Located in the heart of downtown Ottawa, Major’s Hill Park offers stunning views of Parliament Hill and the Ottawa River. It’s a great place to have a picnic, play frisbee, or just relax and take in the views. During the summer months, there are often concerts and events held in the park.
ByWard Market
The ByWard Market is a bustling outdoor marketplace located in downtown Ottawa. It’s a great place to shop for souvenirs, fresh produce, and artisanal goods. There are also plenty of restaurants and cafes in the area, making it a great spot to grab a bite to eat.
Dow’s Lake Pavilion
Dow’s Lake Pavilion is a popular spot for outdoor activities year-round. During the summer months, you can rent kayaks, canoes, and paddleboats to explore the lake. In the winter, the lake is transformed into the world’s largest outdoor skating rink.
Canadian Museum of Nature
The Canadian Museum of Nature is located in the heart of Ottawa and offers plenty of outdoor activities for visitors. The museum has a beautiful outdoor courtyard where you can relax and enjoy the sunshine. There are also plenty of gardens and nature trails to explore.
Nepean Point
Nepean Point is a scenic lookout located just steps from the National Gallery of Canada. It offers stunning views of the city’s skyline and the Ottawa River. It’s a great place to watch the sunset or take in the fireworks during the summer months.
Cycling
Ottawa is a bike-friendly city, with over 800 km of bike lanes and multi-use pathways. You can rent a bike from one of the many rental companies in the city and explore the city’s beautiful neighborhoods and parks on two wheels.
Rockcliffe Park
Rockcliffe Park is a beautiful residential neighborhood located just east of downtown Ottawa. It’s home to some of the city’s most stunning architecture and green spaces, including the Rockcliffe Park Pavilion and the Rockeries. It’s a great place to go for a walk or bike ride and take in the beauty of Ottawa’s natural landscapes.
Parliament Hill
No visit to Ottawa is complete without a visit to Parliament Hill. Located in the heart of downtown, Parliament Hill is home to some of Canada’s most iconic landmarks, including the Peace Tower and the Centennial Flame. You can take a guided tour of the buildings, or simply enjoy a picnic on the expansive lawns.
Ottawa Arboretum
The Ottawa Arboretum is a beautiful outdoor space located on the western edge of the city. It’s home to over 2,000 species of trees and plants, as well as a network of walking and biking trails. During the fall months, the park comes alive with vibrant fall colors.
Mooney’s Bay Beach
Located on the banks of the Rideau River, Mooney’s Bay Beach is a popular spot for swimming, sunbathing, and picnicking. The beach also offers a range of water activities, including kayaking and paddleboarding.
Mer Bleue Bog
Mer Bleue Bog is a unique natural area located just east of Ottawa. It’s home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, including rare plant species and migratory birds. The park offers several hiking trails and boardwalks, making it a great place to explore the natural beauty of the Ottawa region.
Ottawa Farmers’ Market
The Ottawa Farmers’ Market is a must-visit destination for foodies and farmers’ market enthusiasts. The market operates year-round, with vendors selling fresh produce, baked goods, artisanal products, and more. During the summer months, the market expands to include a range of food trucks and live music.
Ottawa is a beautiful city with plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy. From biking and hiking to swimming and kayaking, there’s something for everyone in the city’s parks, lakes, and rivers. So, whether you’re a resident or a visitor, be sure to take advantage of all that Ottawa has to offer.
