Ottawa Holidays

Things to do in Ottawa

Ottawa offers a delightful blend of city-themed and outdoor experiences perfect for families. Visitors can enjoy educational attractions, shopping centres, and recreational activities like skating rinks. For a unique adventure, explore Parc Omega, and indulge in body treatments for relaxation. With a variety of itineraries available, there is something for everyone to enjoy in this vibrant Canadian capital.

Shopping

Byward Market Square offers a vibrant public market experience with a mix of local produce and unique gifts. For a diverse shopping trip, head to Kanata Centrum Shopping Centre, featuring entertainment and family-friendly options. Sparks Street is perfect for leisurely strolls, showcasing boutiques and cafés in a lively atmosphere.

Recreation

The Kōena Spa in Ottawa offers rejuvenating body treatments in a serene atmosphere, perfect for unwinding. For outdoor enthusiasts, the Ottawa River Parkway provides scenic trails ideal for leisurely strolls or cycling, promoting wellness amidst nature. The Canadian Tire Centre buzzes with sports energy, ideal for an active outing.

Adventure

Calypso Water Park offers thrilling water slides and wave pools, perfect for a day of adventure and family fun. Midway Family Fun Park features exciting arcade games and attractions, ensuring a fantastic time for all ages. Cosmic Adventures provides a vibrant environment filled with interactive play zones for unforgettable family experiences.

Nightlife

Ottawa's nightlife buzzes with energy, offering diverse experiences. Visit the lively ByWard Market for trendy bars like The 27 Club, where you can enjoy live music. For a sophisticated vibe, head to the Fairmont Château Laurier’s bar, known for elegant cocktails and stunning views of Parliament Hill.

Find the best attractions in Ottawa

Ottawa is a delightful destination for city-themed, family, and outdoor vacations, offering an array of attractions such as urban parks, historic civic government buildings, and modern colleges. Visitors can enjoy cultural experiences and family-friendly activities while exploring the rich history and vibrant atmosphere of the city and its surroundings. Be sure to include the best local attractions on your itinerary for an unforgettable trip.

• Parliament Hill: Experience the architectural grandeur of Canada’s seat of government. With its iconic Gothic-style buildings, stunning gardens, and the Changing of the Guard ceremony in summer, Parliament Hill is not only a civic hub but also a cultural landmark that embodies Canadian democracy.
• Canadian Museum of History: Discover Canada's rich past at this renowned museum, featuring captivating exhibitions that explore the country's diverse cultures and heritage. Its impressive architecture and scenic views of the Ottawa River make it a perfect spot for history enthusiasts and families alike.
• Canadian War Museum: Delve into Canada's military history through engaging exhibits that highlight the sacrifices made during wartime. This museum offers a poignant reflection on conflict and peace, featuring artefacts, personal stories, and immersive experiences that resonate deeply.

Best time to go to Ottawa

The best time to visit Ottawa can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature in Ottawa falls in July, when visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. The coolest average temperature in Ottawa falls in January, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Occupancy	Pricing
January	15.3°F (-9.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
February	17.2°F (-8.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Average
March	27.9°F (-2.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly Low
April	41.4°F (5.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Average
May	55.6°F (13.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
June	63.5°F (17.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
July	69.4°F (20.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Average
August	67.5°F (19.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Average
September	60.4°F (15.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
October	48.2°F (9.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
November	35.4°F (1.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
December	24.6°F (-4.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly Low

Tips to save on your trip to Ottawa

• Take advantage of package deals on Expedia and combine flights, hotels, or car rentals for a convenient and cost-effective trip to Ottawa.
• Consider traveling during the off-peak season (typically March and December to January) for more affordable package holidays to Ottawa.
• Use the Price per traveler filter on Expedia to find a package deal that suits your budget.
• Check the VIP Access properties filter to discover outstanding hotels with added member perks at select properties.