Things to Do in Ottawa for First-Time Visitors That Actually Show Off the City
Big landmarks, neighbourhood stops, museum picks, and scenic places.......
Claire Whitmore
Claire Whitmore has spent 12 years showing up to things so you know whether to bother. Based in Ottawa her entire life, she covers the city's events, food scene, arts community, and cultural calendar with the kind of obsessive local knowledge that only comes from actually being here, not parachuting in for a weekend and filing a listicle. She knows which festivals are worth the parking nightmare, which "hidden gems" stopped being hidden in 2019, and which neighbourhood restaurants will still be open next year. Her writing doesn't work for venues, tourism boards, or event sponsors. It works for the person standing in their kitchen on a Thursday night trying to figure out what to do this weekend. Ottawa is a city that constantly undersells itself. Emily's been arguing against that for her entire career.
Things to Do in Ottawa Indoors (When the Weather Isn’t on Your Side)
From large-scale museums to hands-on experiences and social spots, there’s a wide range of indoor things to do in Ottawa that are worth leaving the house for.
Family Things to Do in Ottawa for Kids Who Need More Than Just a Playground
For history-loving families, mixed-age families, curious kids, toddlers, preschoolers, school children, and more.
Outdoor Things to Do in Ottawa For Fresh Air, Views, and Getting Out of The House
Fun by the water, immersive experience in the nature, active atmoshphere that isn't intense, and spots with the best viewpoints.
Best Dessert Cafes in Ottawa You’ll Wish You Tried Sooner
From affogatos and jiggly cheesecakes to Italian pastries and rotating donut flavors, including vegan & gluten-free.
Best Cafes Near Downtown Ottawa You’ll Want to Keep Coming Back To
The best cafes near downtown Ottawa cover a lot of ground, and that is part of the appeal. You can grab a polished espresso steps from Confederation Square, settle into a quieter spot just off Bank, or head slightly beyond…
Best Cozy Cafes in Ottawa You’ll Want to Settle Into
These cozy cafes in Ottawa feel familiar and unpretentious, with a unique lived-in feel. You’ll find places built for slow mornings, solo afternoons, and long convos.
Best Coffee Shops in Ottawa That Focus Purely on The Craft
These aren't all trying to do the same thing and are suitable for all kinds of mornings, afternoons, evenings.
Best Cafes to Work From in Ottawa That Actually Let You Focus
Finding the right place to work outside your home can completely change your productivity. The best cafes to work from in Ottawa aren’t just about good coffee, they’re about space, noise levels, seating, and how comfortable it feels to stay…
Best Cafes in ByWard Market Ottawa That Change Rhythm From Morning to Night
The best cafes in ByWard Market Ottawa offer way more than just a quick caffeine fix. This pocket of the city blends historic charm, tourist energy, and local hangouts all within a few blocks. You’ll find everything from French bakeries…