Please complete your profile to unlock commenting and other important features.

Please select your date of birth for special perks on your birthday. Your username will be your unique profile link and will be publicly used in comments.
Narcity Pro

This is a Pro feature.

Time to level up your local game with Narcity Pro.

Pro

$5/month

$40/year

  • Everything in the Free plan
  • Ad-free reading and browsing
  • Unlimited access to all content including AI summaries
  • Directly support our local and national reporting and become a Patron
  • Cancel anytime.

things to do near ottawa

Ever dream of floating your worries away in Iceland's Blue Lagoon? Luckily, you don't need to hop on a plane to get that same relaxing experience. There are plenty of thermal spas and saunas near Ottawa that'll make you feel like you've been transported to a Scandinavian retreat—without ever leaving the country.

As the crisp autumn air settles in, there's no better time to soak in an outdoor hot tub or unwind in a cozy sauna surrounded by nature. Whether you're alternating between hot and cold pools, enjoying a steam room, or indulging in some well-deserved treatments, these spots offer the perfect escape from the city. And with their serene natural settings, you'll feel completely refreshed and recharged.

Keep reading...Show less

Nested among the Laurentian Mountains of southern Quebec, just a short road trip away from Ottawa, sits a picturesque village that will transport you to the cobblestone streets of Europe.

This small town is brimming with beauty, charming storefronts, and tasty restaurants — all working to create a storybook-like atmosphere.

Keep reading...Show less

Have you ever gone on Google Maps, looked somewhere in Ottawa, and then zoomed out? If you did, you probably noticed that Ottawa, despite being a 5-hour drive away from the massive Great Lakes and an 8-hour drive away from the vast Atlantic Ocean, has plenty of water surrounding our nation's capital (in the form of rivers and lakes).

And with the Thousand Island just down the road, ferries are a typical form of transportation across the Ottawa Valley and the Outaouais Region across the river. Each ferry has its own flare and independent charm, taking ferry-goers to day-trip-worthy destinations all over.

Keep reading...Show less

Looking for a cultural escape in the charming Quebec countryside? The 1001 Pots festival is your must-visit summer destination, where the beauty of ceramics meets a breathtaking natural setting.

Each year, the festival gathers over 100 talented ceramists, from seasoned pros to rising stars. Their stunning works and techniques captivate both enthusiasts and newcomers. Whether you're looking to explore a new craft or enjoy the perfect family day trip, the festival offers workshops and training sessions for all levels.

Keep reading...Show less

If you're looking for some fun things to do in Ottawa this weekend but don't want to spend your entire paycheque, then these events happening around the city are for you. Ottawa's got you covered with lots of free activities to enjoy this weekend, so you can have some fun without spending a dime.

Whether you're into jamming out to karaoke or stretching it out with some yoga, you can enjoy your time off to the fullest without sweating the cost.

Keep reading...Show less