Things to Do in Ottawa in Winter
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In this post you’ll find out the best things to do in Ottawa in winter.
Ottawa is often enjoyed by many in the spring for having the largest Tulip festival in the world, or during Canada Day when they have some of the most remarkable firework displays in the country. And while the city is definitely breathtaking during all seasons, there’s nothing quite like experiencing Canada’s most iconic season, winter, then in Canada’s Capital. I explain why below, and some of the places and things you must do if you want to achieve that fantasy snow-globe vacation getaway.
At the end of the post you’ll also find out how to win your very own getaway here to Ottawa for you and 4 of your friends:
Best Things to Do in Ottawa in Winter
Largest Naturally Frozen Ice Skating Rink in the World
At 7.8KM long the Rideau Canal Skateway is not only a UNESCO World Heritage site full of rich history, it is also the largest naturally frozen ice skating rink in the world.
As a bonus, it is FREE! Yes, it doesn’t cost you a single cent to skate on the Rideau Canal Skateway. All you need is a pair of skates and you’re good to go all winter long (although there are skate rentals available if you don’t have your own pair).
The Skateway is also lined with heated changing stations and huts to keep warm. Of course no day of skating is complete without a BeaverTail, a real Canadian treat of hand stretched pastry in the shape of a beaver tail that is topped with various flavourings and toppings.
Top Rated Culinary Spots – Things to Do in Ottawa in Winter
As one of the most diverse countries in the world Canada is blessed with flavours from all over the globe. Not only can you find truly authentic cuisines from all cultures, but plenty that are award-winning and recognized on the international stage, like Clarendon Tavern, which was rated as one of Ottawa’s top new restaurants in 2019. For more on some of the best places to eat while in Ottawa check out some of my top picks here.
The Ultimate Relaxation Escape at the Largest Spa in North America
Just a short 15 minute drive from Ottawa’s city centre is the Nordik Spa-Nature, the largest spa in all of North America. Known for their outdoor pools which focus on Scandinavian wellness techniques the Nordik Spa-Nature has 10 exterior pools, 9 saunas, 4 restaurants, an infinity pool, saltwater floatation pool, yoga, and outdoor massage pavilions. It is the perfect way to relax those muscles after spending the day outdoors or to take away the stresses of everyday grind, all while in the most beautiful winter wonderland backdrop.
Rooftop Patios All Year – Things to Do in Ottawa in Winter
There’s nothing quite like a rooftop patio with unobstructed views with your favourite drink. Sadly, rooftop patios are mostly reserved a very short time during the year, except when in Ottawa. During Winterlude the Andaz Ottawa Byward Market has transformed their famous Copper Spirits & Sights rooftop into a true outdoor winter paradise with fire pits and heaters to keep you warm while their full-service ice bar mixes up the perfect cocktail for you. Read more about the Andaz Ottawa Byward Market Copper on Ice Rooftop Bar here.
Win a Trip to Ottawa
Want to win your own winter-getaway to Ottawa for you and 4 friends? All you have to do is click here. Good luck!
Disclaimer: This post was done in collaboration with Ottawa Tourism. All opinions expressed are my own. All information, offerings, and prices are accurate as of time of posting. Please refer to Ottawa Tourism for the most up to date information.
