9 Free Winter Activities In Ottawa For When You're Broke AF
Going out can quickly get expensive, but you can have fun without opening your wallet. There are so many free things to do in Ottawa this winter.
Our snowy season has an abundance of events and activities you can enjoy without wasting your entire paycheque. From seeing holiday lights to finding the best tobogganing spot in the city, there is so much you'll want to try.
The next time you're feeling broke, make sure to try one of the suggestions below.
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Skate On The Rideau Canal
Price: Free
Address: Rideau Canal, Ottawa, ON
Why You Need To Go: No winter is complete without visiting the world's largest skating rink at least once. At 7.8 kilometres, there's plenty of places to hop on or off. Plus, no matter how many times you've been, it's always magical.
Tobogganing At Green's Creek
Price: Free
Address: Green's Creek, Ottawa, ON
Why You Need To Go: Here you can race your friend to the bottom of the giant toboggan hill. And then climb back up and do it all over again! There's also hiking and cross-country skiing close by that are also free to enjoy.
Find A Frozen Waterfall
Price: Free
Address: Hog’s Back Park, 600 Hog's Back Rd., Ottawa, ON
Why You Need To Go: It will only take you a few minutes to reach the impressive frozen waterfall. Tucked away in Confederation Heights, you won't believe this scenic wonder is right in the city. The parking lot closes for the season on December 1 but you can still stop by on foot if you need a moment of peace.
Have Fun At Winterlude
Price: Free
Address: Online
Why You Need To Go: This year, you can see intricate sculptures made out of ice and snow from the comfort of your home. There's also plenty of fun things to explore like hockey history trivia and videos on dumpling folding.
Hike The Jack Pine Trail
Price: Free
Address: Jack Pine Trail, Moodie Drive, Nepean, ON
Why You Need To Go: There's a short and sweet 0.7-kilometre path through a snowy forest and two longer ones. It's also free to snowshoe and cross-country ski here so there's plenty to keep you busy without paying a dime.
See Christmas Lights Across Canada
Price: Free
Address: Confederation Boulevard, Ottawa, ON
Why You Need To Go: From the end of November to the beginning of January, you can walk under thousands of colourful lights that glow around the National War Memorial and Confederation Boulevard. Grab your SO and some hot chocolate and take a romantic stroll under the twinkling trees.
Drive Down Taffy Lane
Price: Free
Address: Taffy Lane, Ottawa, ON
Why You Need To Go: You can drive along Taffy Lane to see homes covered in festive lights that are sure to put you in the holiday spirit. The tradition started in 1977 and it's gotten bigger and bigger each year since. The display is up the whole month of December.
Glide Across The Rink Of Dreams
Price: Free
Address: 110 Laurier Ave. W., Ottawa, ON
Why You Need To Go: Lace up your skates and glide across the ice at this huge outdoor rink. Skating is generally open from December to March so there's plenty of time to grab a couple of friends and go for a spin. Just be sure to pack your own skates!
Explore The Ottawa Christmas Market
Price: Free
Address: Lansdowne Park, 1525 Princess Patricia Way, Ottawa, ON
Why You Need To Go: You can visit the giant Christmas tree and see the stunning light displays. Running through the month of December, this European-style Christmas market has the works, from handcrafted goods and gifts to delicious eats. It's everything you need to get in the festive mood!
Before you get going, check our Responsible Travel Guide so you can be informed, be safe, be smart, and most of all, be respectful on your trip.