As a four-season destination, Canada’s capital is a wonderful place to visit any time of year. Countless sites, events and activities welcome groups and fully independent travelers to Ottawa all year-long. Here are some of the seasonal highlights that will keep you coming back for more!
Spring
Sugar rush
Spring is a very special season in Canada — maple syrup season — and Ottawa is lucky to be so close to many maple syrup producers in both Quebec and Ontario. For example, just outside the city you’ll find Fulton's Sugar Bush and Maple Shop where guests can enjoy a guided tour, horse-drawn ride and boutique.
Branch out
Maple trees are a national treasure, but you can branch out and discover thousands of species of trees from around the world at The Arboretum — one of the first places in the city to be awash with spring colours. Wander amongst its perfumed pink-and-white crabapple tree blossoms to the ridge in the centre of the park for a great view of the Rideau Canal and the city. Follow one of several marked paths and explore less tamed beauty in the Butterfly Meadow or Fletcher Wildlife Garden. Adjoining this urban oasis is the Central Experimental Farm, which is anchored by the Canada Agriculture and Food Museum — where horses, sheep, pigs, and other livestock are enjoyed by a regular flow of city-dwellers seeking to reconnect with nature. For indoor natural wonders, head back downtown to the Canadian Museum of Nature.
Biking in bloom
Ottawa’s festivals really begin to bloom in May with the Canadian Tulip Festival, where tulips are just the beginning! This celebration goes back to the Second World War when Ottawa provided refuge for Princess Juliana of the Netherlands, and to thank us, she sent 100,000 bulbs in gratitude! From these roots has grown a huge festival, including live music performances, children’s activities, and more. Take in the tulips on foot in Commissioners Park, or rent a bike and enjoy the pathways along the Rideau Canal — just don’t forget to stop and smell the flowers!
The Capital Pathway Network doesn’t stop there! Rent a bike from RentABike, and explore more of this 600-km network. Take a tour with Escape Bicycle Tours & Rentals. Hop off the bike entirely and hop on Gray Line Ottawa’s “Hop-on, Hop-off” city tours aboard a double-decker bus. These tours let you discover the city at your own pace over up to 2 days—basically a tour guide and chauffeur when you want them!
Pumped for patios
When warm weather arrives, locals gather on Ottawa’s outdoor patios, many of which are in the vibrant ByWard Market district. For something secluded and charming, the cobblestoned Clarendon Court (at the corner of George and Sussex Streets) has four patios to choose from. Across from the BeaverTails stand, grab a spot on the terrace at The Grand for a drink or pizza, or try Lowertown Brewery for beers and sun.
