As Canada’s capitol city, Ottawa has its fair share of the usual city attractions; activities, shopping, restaurants, nightlife, museums, outdoor activities, and parks. Most are available within a short distance of downtown. But did you know that there are some unique activities that only occur in Ottawa?
Whether you are spending winter in Ottawa or looking for some different things to do with your family or kids, there are plenty of attractions that answer the question of what to do in Ottawa.
Ottawa is an easy day trip from Montreal. But if visiting from Toronto, you will require at least an overnight stay. Whether you stay for a day or a week, Ottawa has plenty of activities and experiences to keep you entertained. If you would prefer a longer vacation, you could stay in a waterfront cottage with a sod roof, just 1 hour from Ottawa or visit Prince Edward County for a wine tour along the way.
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Situated at the convergence of three rivers, (Ottawa, Gatineau, and Rideau), Ottawa is a compact city of approximately 1 million people. With European fur traders and the local aboriginal populations as its ancestral roots, Ottawa is steeped in history.
There are five major museums in Ottawa which include the Canadian Nature Museum, Canadian War Museum, Canadian Aviation and Space Museum, Science and Technology, Agriculture and Food and an Insectarium. Located a short drive across the river in Gatineau, is the Museum of History and Civilization. This museum is worth the trip!
Like any other major city, shopping, restaurants, and bus tours are also available but if you are looking for some unique activities or experiences, these are some to consider:
Diefenbunker Museum
Location: 3929 Carp Road, Ottawa (Carp), Ontario, Canada
The Diefenbunker Museum is Canada’s Cold War Museum. The purpose of the bunker was to house key members of the government and military in the event of a nuclear attack on Canada. This bunker was designed to be the largest of the Emergency Government Headquarters bunkers built in Canada and is unique to Ottawa.
Located within evacuation distance of downtown Ottawa, the 75-foot underground bunker allowed Canadian government officials to safely operate underground for 30 days. This provided a place for them to assist with the governance and rebuilding of the country.
Completed in 1961, it was the site of some of Canada’s most top-secret communications throughout the Cold War. The Diefenbunker became a National Historic Site in 1994 and closed the same year. In 1997, it became a museum and one of the most unique museums in Ottawa.
Tours of this museum are available for purchase but please check hours of operation.
Ottawa Farm Fresh
Location: 2811 Ramsayville Rd, Gloucester, Ontario
Ottawa farm Fresh is an organic farm located on the outskirts of Ottawa. It is only a 12-minute drive from downtown. Onsite, the farm store has a wide variety of fresh and seasonal foods.
Ottawa farm Fresh believes that agriculture can heal the land AND nurture the mind, body, and soul of the local community. Their methods are 100% Organic, and they are in the process of getting certified.
At the farm, you can take a wander through the fields and learn about growing methods. They offer an engaging interactive farm tour available using QR codes. Stations are provided at several information stations along a designated path to provide information on the growing methods. This is a great eco-friendly activity in Ottawa to introduce children to where food comes from.
In addition, the farm store supplies freshly grown fruits and vegetables for purchase. Why not try Ottawa’s farm fresh vegetable basket?
Please check Ottawa farm Fresh for their hours of operation.
Kichi Zībī Mīkan (Formerly Sir John A Macdonald Parkway)
Location: Carling Avenue to Booth Street, Ottawa
The Kichi Zībī Mīkan (formerly Sir John A Macdonald Parkway) (managed by National Capitol Commission) is a four-lane scenic parkway that runs along the Ottawa River. A grassy median separates the directions of the parkway, but still offers views of the river. Besides being a scenic route, the parkway serves as a commuter artery for west end residents who work downtown. The express busses from Ottawa and Gatineau transit systems also use this route.
Approximately 1 km from the start of the Parkway, the Deschenes Rapids scenic lookout offers great views of the river. Several lookouts and picnic areas are located along the parkway. These include the Kitchissipi Lookout and Beach also known as Westboro Beach.
During the spring and summer months, the westbound lanes of the parkway are completely closed to vehicles on Sundays. However, pedestrians and bicycles are allowed from 9 am until 1 pm for recreational purposes.
This unique parkway allows an up close view of the beautiful Ottawa river. In the fall, the colours of the trees add to the experience. There is a year-round bike trail that runs parallel to the parkway if you enjoy cycling. If you come to the Capitol region, this is a wonderful scenic drive around Ottawa.
If you go, check the National Capitol Commission for current hours on parkway recreation availability.
Wesley Clover Parks
Location: 401 Corkstown Road, Ottawa, ON
Wesley Clover Parks is a four-season outdoor recreation and learning hub dedicated to promoting health and education. It is a non-profit initiative that provides healthy outdoor education, recreation, sport and event experiences for Ottawa residents and visitors.
At Wesley Clover parks you will find sports fields, trails, farming fields, a forest school, a World Class Equestrian competition ring, and a campground.
Although some of the activities are designed for the year-round visits by school children, the campground, sports fields, and equestrian centre are available to the general public.
Pro Tip – Arrive early for best seats and bring a lawn chair.
World Class Equestrian Center
The Equestrian centre boasts a world-class Grand Prix field, one of a rare few international-level grass jumping arenas in Canada. Here, competitors compete in eventing and jumping competitions. Some of the past athletes were Ian Miller, Yann Candele, and Tiffany Foster. On show days, entrance fees are a parking pass. Furthermore, if you plan on sitting, be sure to show up early and bring a lawn chair. Food and washrooms are available. This is the premier destination for horse shows in Ottawa.
Camping at Wesley Clover provides a beautiful urban retreat with hiking and biking trails. It is walking distance to the Equestrian facilities and the soccer fields. Cabin rentals are also available. If you are new to camping, check out this camping guide for some hints on how to enjoy the experience.
During December, the campground is closed but there is a Festival of Lights that allows cars to drive though the park and view holiday lights.
Whether you are visiting from out of town or choosing a ‘stay-cation’ in the great outdoors, this unique activity at Wesley Clover Parks is something for everyone.
For bookings or to review current COVID-19 restrictions, please contact the Wesley Clover Parks.
Be sure to have the essentials if you do decide to camp.
Little Ray’s Nature Centre
Location: 2781 Colonial Road, Ottawa, Ontario
Little Ray’s Nature Centre is a fun place to learn about native, exotic, and domestic species and their environments. The centre started as a reptile zoo in 2000 and expanded to an award-winning live animal travelling museum exhibit program. In 2020, they received Canadian accredited zoo and aquarium awards.
Various interactive exhibits as well as museum exhibits can be found at the nature centre. The zookeepers interact with, engage, and educate the public.
A wide variety of animals are represented, including snakes, lizards, alligators, caymans, sloths, and more.
If you want to enjoy these unique activities, please check the website for dates and times. This is a great place to visit if you are looking for an Ottawa indoor activity.
RCMP Musical Ride
Location: Musical Ride Stables, 1 Sandridge Road, Ottawa, Ontario
The Musical Ride of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police is an event showcasing the equestrian skills performed by 32 cavalry members of the regular force. Events are typically held in different communities throughout Canada during the summer months. Occasionally, performances are held in Ottawa.
The stables and visitor centre are open year-round with guided tours. Here, you can meet the horses and riders, walk through the stables, and experience our visitor centre.
One of the best performances is at the Canadian Sunset ceremony. As an annual event, the silhouetted Mounties of the Musical Ride line up to take part in the flag lowering ceremony at sunset. The entire audience takes part in the singing of our national anthem. This truly unique Canadian experience can’t be missed.
Please check their website as they have had COVID-19 restrictions in place.
Canadian Tulip Festival
Location: Various parks through Ottawa
When the tulips bloom in Ottawa, you know that spring has arrived in this capital city. Their vibrant colours bring renewed life after a melancholy March.
The Canadian Tulip Festival gives reason to get outdoors after a long, cold winter. This annual festival comes alive for two weekends during the year. Several gardens throughout the city showcase millions of tulips.
The festival began when the Dutch royal family took refuge in Ottawa during the Second World War. Two years later, Canadian troops played a key role in liberating the Netherlands. In gratitude, the Dutch government has sent Canada a gift of tulip bulbs every year since 1945, inspiring what has become the Canadian Tulip Festival.
Tulips displays are at several sites around the city but the largest is at Commissioners Park which located alongside the picturesque Dows Lake. During the festival, there are sweeping beds of jewel-like tulips, fireworks, music, family fun and more. While there, you can also nibble on food truck fare, browse for unique items by local crafters and check out historical displays.
Walk, bike or bus to other sites throughout the city. Look online for other locations where other festival events are held. This is one of the best activities in Ottawa in the spring and should not be missed.
Check out the Canadian Tulip Festival for dates and other floral locations.
Skating the Rideau Canal
Location: Along the canal, downtown Ottawa
A visit to Ottawa in the winter would not be complete without skating on the Rideau Canal. From roughly January to late February or early March, a section of the canal becomes the world’s largest skating rink. It winds its way through downtown Ottawa to arrive near the parliament buildings. Be sure to experience one of Ottawa’s most popular winter activities.
When open (weather permitting), the Rideau Canal Skate way is free and accessible 7 days a week, 24 hours a day. Anyone can explore the 7.8 kilometres (4.8 miles) thanks to its universally accessible ramps and facilities along the way. It is a haven for skaters but non-skaters can walk on pathways above the canal to enjoy it as well.
On ice amenities are provided along the Rideau Canal Skate way at five locations. The amenities include washrooms, change rooms, and food and beverage vendors. Rest areas include fire pits, picnic tables and benches however, they can be busy on the weekend.
Visit the Skate way website for updated reports on ice conditions.
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Conclusion
In conclusion, Ottawa has plenty of unique activities to offer in both summer and winter months. As a new resident of the capitol city, I am amazed at the number of unique opportunities right at our doorstep.
So be sure to include Ottawa in your visit to Canada and come see some unique activities this wonderful city has to offer.
For other activities during you stay in Ottawa, check out Viatour.
If you are in Ottawa, check out these tips for a Quick Hometown Holiday.
If you are looking for other regions to visit in Ontario, why not head to Niagara Falls, summer or winter, or to Prince Edward County for a wine tour or nature hike.
Travel Insurance: If you are traveling within Canada, be sure to check out the options from CAA Insurance.
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That bunker looks neat. Reminds me of the one Terminator movie where the main characters bunkered down before the seeming end. Amazing how sturdy and recessed bunkers need to be to withstand the blast. My question always is: why in the hell would you want to live in a world decimated to its core? I’ll check out, thank you LOL.
Ryan