How to Spend Your Canada Day Weekend in Ottawa From A Local

Make the most of your Canada Day celebrations in Ottawa with these tips of things to do all weekend from a local:

Canada Day Celebrations

My ideal plan for Canaday Day would be to start downtown early near Parliament Hill. If you’re staying at a hotel downtown then you’ll be conveniently located near all the action.  There are thousands of people dressed in red and white taking part in the celebrations. There are FREE celebrations happening at 3 different sites. This includes activities at Majors Hill Park on June 30th and July 1st. Get my complete guide to this year’s festivities here. From amazing Canadian talent, activities, entertainment, fireworks and more, it’s sure to be another incredible Canada Day in Ottawa. This is an absolute must if you’re in Ottawa for Canada Day. 

Make sure to wear red and white, grab flags and temporary tattoos from the dollar store, and keep hydrated, it’s going to be a scorcher! Ps. leave the car at home and take advantage of free OC Transpo and STO buses. It’s the easiest way to get downtown on Canada Day.

Once Canada Day is done what should you do? Here’s everything else to do during your Canada weekend in Ottawa from a local:

Enjoy one of Ottawa’s Patios

We LOVE our patios. As soon as there is a sliver of sunshine in the sky, Ottawans are out. Here’s a guide of patios to visit in Ottawa by area and deals. If you’re downtown for Canada Day, head to the Byward Market to join in the festivities. It’s packed with people sporting red and white. Maybe after Canada Day, you’re looking for something more chill like a patio near a waterfall or a view of Parliament? Read on for all your options here.

Sunset at the Ottawa Locks

This is my favourite place to catch sunset in Ottawa. I’ve seen sunsets all over the world but this still remains one of my favourites. I love seeing the vibrant colours dance along the water and seeing silhouettes of boats go by. It’s a National Historic Site so you’ll find the Parks Canada chairs here for a great view.

Explore Sparks Street

This historic main street is right near all the action. After Canada Day, head back here to enjoy its many shops and restaurants, take some great photos, and learn a bit about Ottawa’s history. Check out everything you need to do this summer on Sparks Street here. From unique food finds, awesome patios, bike tours, haunted walks, cocktail crawls, and unique shops, there is plenty to keep you busy! 

Grab a Coffee at Equator at the NAC

Refuel with some coffee and get an amazing view of Parliament from the National Art Centre at the same time. The NAC is one of my favourite buildings in Ottawa. You’ll be able to see how bright, open and inviting it is. You can also easily access the canal here.

Walk along the Rideau Canal and head to Elgin Street

The Rideau Canal is one of my favourite parts of Ottawa. No matter what time of day you’re always sure to get a beautiful view. Walk along the canal and then make your way to Elgin Street. Make a stop at the Somerset Love Locks bridge (and maybe leave a love lock) and then walk down Somerset towards Elgin. Here you’ll find plenty of great shops and restaurants. Don’t let the construction throw you off. There is plenty worth exploring here. I love coming here for brunch, patios, nightlife and more. You can also catch some great song lyric signs on your walk through that are sure to give you a laugh. 

Grab a Caesar at a Local Bar

Head to Mulligans Golf Bar for a Canadian cocktail. Their Caesar has the perfect amount of spicy and some delicious garnishes. I recently judged a Caesar Competition here and fell in love with their Caesar and would definitely recommend it. They have a patio that is close to Parliament so it’s a great spot to head for a Caesar before heading to the hill or you can come here throughout the weekend for a bite. They also have a golf simulator where you can play a round of golf with Parliament as your backdrop on the screen.

Attend a Local Event

Depending on how long you’re here for, head to a local event. You can see what’s going on in the capital on my event calendar, here. From Cirque du Soleil, being part of a living flag on Canada Day, a party at the museum, puppy yoga and more, there’s plenty to do all over the city! You’ll also find a list of events happening on Canada Day.

Party in a Museum at Nature Nocturne

Once a month, the Museum of Nature opens its doors at night for Nature Nocturne. Browse through their exhibits and dance under the Queens Lantern (the giant glowing jellyfish), see the Barrick Salon transform with music and lights and more. It’s one of my favourite nights out in Ottawa. 

Get Your Photo at the Ottawa Sign

Head to the Byward Market where you’ll find the Ottawa sign on York Street. It’s a great spot for a photo with your friends with Parliament in the background! It’s going to be jam-packed here on Canada Day so try to go another day. Once you have a photo it’s a great time to explore patios in the area. Don’t forget to also get your photo with the Ottawa sign on Sparks Street.

 

Enjoy Brunch in Little Italy

You’ll find EVOO Greek Kitchen in the heart of Little Italy. It’s one of my favourite brunches in the city. I recommend getting the spicy baked feta, so delicious! They also have a sister restaurant, Mati Ottawa. You can also head to both of these spots for dinner and drinks!

Go Paddleboarding on the Rideau Canal

After you’ve fuelled up with brunch, walk to Dow’s Lake from Little Italy and rent a canoe or paddleboard and enjoy some time on the water. If you’re ambitious, head from Dow’s Lake towards downtown on the Rideau Canal. It’ll be worth it for the views 😉

Grab a Drink at on Andaz Hotel’s Rooftop

This hotel does a great job of incorporating local, so much that locals love hanging out here too! Head to their rooftop patio, Copper Spirits, and Sights for a panoramic view of downtown Ottawa. They also have a Canada Day party happening here so it’s another great spot to catch the fireworks. At 12:00 pm their rooftop opens for an all day and night Canadiana party. Head here during the day for an amazing view or at night to catch the fireworks.

Head Over to the Quebec Side

Living in Ottawa, we’re so lucky to be so close to Quebec. Walk across the Alexandra Bridge (you’ll get a great view of Ottawa from here) and then head over and explore Outaouais if you have some time. Here’s a bucket list of some things to do in the area if you have time, including where to find this umbrella installation and more!