Ottawa, Seasoned: A Few Ideas
With all the incredible food, entertainment, outdoor activities, and charming neighbourhoods Ottawa has to offer, it can be hard to know where to start. That’s why I’ve put together some sample one-day itineraries designed to help you experience the best of Ottawa during the spring and summer months.
Each itinerary is structured to give you a little sightseeing, dining, and downtime—whether you’re planning a packed day of adventure or a relaxed exploration of the city’s highlights.
Itinerary 1: Classic Ottawa in a Day
Morning
- Breakfast: Start your day at Wilf & Ada’s for a hearty breakfast.
- Sightseeing: Visit the National Gallery of Canada and take in its impressive collection of Canadian and Indigenous art.
- Stroll: Walk over to Major’s Hill Park for beautiful views of Parliament Hill and the Ottawa River.
Afternoon
- Lunch: Grab a delicious sandwich from La Bottega Nicastro in the ByWard Market.
- Exploration: Spend time wandering the market’s shops and outdoor stalls, or head to Parliament Hill for a guided tour.
Evening
- Dinner: Enjoy a refined dining experience at Beckta Dining & Wine or a more casual, lively meal at Play Food & Wine in the ByWard Market.
- Entertainment: Catch a performance at the National Arts Centre or explore the nightlife around Elgin Street.
Itinerary 2: Outdoor Enthusiast’s Day
Morning
- Breakfast: Start with coffee and a light bite at Little Victories before renting a bike and heading out along the Rideau Canal pathways.
Afternoon
- Lunch: Pack a picnic from ByWard Market or the Glebe and enjoy it in Gatineau Park. Explore the Pink Lake Trail or take a swim at one of the park’s beaches.
Evening
- Dinner: Try one of Westboro’s cozy patios, like Tavern on the Falls with its stunning views.
- Evening Activity: Rent a kayak or paddleboard along the Ottawa River to catch the sunset from the water.
Itinerary 3: Arts & Culture Explorer
Morning
- Breakfast: Enjoy a leisurely brunch at Gezellig in Westboro.
- Sightseeing: Visit the Canadian Museum of History to explore exhibits on Canadian heritage and culture.
Afternoon
- Lunch: Stop by the Hintonburg & Wellington West area for a casual bite and a visit to the local shops and galleries.
- Exploration: Head to Hintonburg’s brewery scene or check out street art installations in the area.
Evening
- Dinner: Experience fine dining at Atelier or a casual dinner at Town.
- Entertainment: End the night with a show during the Ottawa Fringe Festival or enjoy a drink at one of the city’s stylish cocktail bars like Union 613’s Speakeasy.
Final Thoughts
These sample itineraries are just the beginning. The beauty of Ottawa in the spring and summer lies in the variety of experiences you can have—from high-end dining and cultural explorations to casual picnics and outdoor adventures. Feel free to mix and match from each itinerary to create your perfect Ottawa experience.
Stay tuned for more seasonal guides and ideas for making the most of your time in Ottawa!
