FLOAT ON
Not only does the Ottawa River run through downtown Ottawa, but the city is also surrounded by beautiful countryside. There are options for all types of water fun, ranging from a thrilling experience with OWL Rafting, some white-water fun, and a view of Parliament Hill with Ottawa City Rafting to a relaxing canal cruise with Rideau Canal Cruises on the Rideau Canal—a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
LISTEN UP
Ottawa is nothing short of an iconic destination for music festival lovers. With some of the biggest music festivals in the world, plan your visit accordingly, as they mostly take place during the summer months. With hundreds of headliners, the Ottawa Jazz Festival starts off the season, followed by more than 10 days of international big names at the Ottawa Bluesfest held downtown along the river. The largest event of its kind, Ottawa Chamberfest takes place just after, and Music and Beyond, a festival celebrating both music and the arts, is a must-see.
DINE OUT
Start your culinary experience at ByWard Market Square and the surrounding neighborhood with more than 600 artisan stalls, businesses, and restaurants within four blocks. For lunch with a view, you can’t go wrong with gourmet hot dogs at Tavern on The Hill, a hidden courtyard garden table at Tavern at the Gallery, a patio meal by the falls at Tavern on the Falls, or dining on the bank of the river at Remic Rapids Park. And if it’s exciting dinner options your group is after, they can sample an Inuit-influenced menu at The National Arts Center’s 1 Elgin, eat tapas at Sidebar, or indulge in seafood at Ottawa’s largest raw bar, Metropolitain Brasserie & Restaurant.
LEARN MORE
Ottawa Tourism and Convention Authority
ottawatourism.ca/en
Main Image: Rideau Canal; Credit: Ottawa Tourism
