Ottawa Holidays

Things to do in Ottawa

Ottawa offers a delightful blend of city-themed, family-friendly, and outdoor activities. Visitors can enjoy educational tours, explore interesting museums, and indulge in shopping at local centres. For those seeking adventure, there are fun tours and ski slopes to experience. Additionally, consider taking trips to nearby Quebec for a taste of its rich culture. Ottawa is a vibrant destination that caters to various interests and makes for a memorable vacation.

Shopping

For a delightful shopping experience in Ottawa, visit Byward Market Square for local crafts and fresh produce. Sparks Street Mall offers a blend of shopping and entertainment, while Chapman Mills Marketplace is perfect for family-friendly shopping, featuring various stores and eateries.

Recreation

Experience the exhilarating atmosphere at the Canadian Tire Centre, where you can enjoy thrilling sports events. Alternatively, unwind at Kōena Spa, embracing a serene environment with rejuvenating treatments designed for ultimate relaxation. For a more active pursuit, visit Walter Baker Sports Centre, perfect for various sports activities.

Adventure

Calypso Water Park offers thrilling water slides and wave pools, perfect for families seeking adventure and entertainment. For arcade fun, Midway Family Fun Park and Cosmic Adventures provide exciting games and activities, ensuring a delightful experience for families and adventure enthusiasts alike in Ottawa.

Nightlife

Ottawa's nightlife buzzes with energy, featuring vibrant bars and live music venues. Visit the Whalesbone Oyster House for fresh seafood and craft cocktails. For a lively atmosphere, head to The 27 Club for live performances and a variety of drinks, showcasing local talent in an intimate setting.

Find the best attractions in Ottawa

Ottawa offers an ideal blend of city-themed, family-friendly, and outdoor experiences. Popular attractions include urban parks, historic civic government buildings, and modern colleges and universities. Visitors can explore the scenic Ottawa River while immersing themselves in the rich culture and outdoor activities available in and around the city. Be sure to include these highlights in your itinerary for a memorable holiday in Canada's capital.

• Parliament Hill: Experience the stunning architecture and rich history of Canada’s seat of government. Enjoy guided tours that take you through the iconic buildings, and don’t miss the impressive Changing of the Guard ceremony during summer.
• Canadian Museum of History: Discover Canada’s past through engaging exhibits and artefacts. The museum offers breathtaking views of Parliament Hill and features the Grand Hall, showcasing Indigenous cultures and history.
• Ottawa City Hall: A striking example of modern design, Ottawa City Hall is a hub for civic activities. Explore its public art installations and enjoy events hosted in its beautiful courtyard, reflecting the city's vibrant community spirit.

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

• Combine your flights, hotels and car rentals on Expedia—bundling can result in significant savings.
• 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.