Gone are the days when planning a group night out in Ottawa meant choosing between a restaurant and a movie. The city's entertainment options have diversified significantly in recent years, and if you haven't tried the newer group activity venues, you're overdue.
Axe Throwing
Yes, axe throwing became a thing, and Ottawa fully embraced it. The activity, supervised, safe, and surprisingly accessible, has become one of the city's top group booking experiences.
Backyard Axe Throwing League (multiple Ottawa locations): The Ottawa franchise of the Canadian-born BATL operation is the most well-known option. Packages run from 90 minutes to half-day experiences, and the staff are good at coaching first-timers. Corporate and bachelor/bachelorette bookings are common.
Bad Axe Throwing (Vanier): A solid alternative with its own loyal following. Similar format, slightly different vibe.
Bowling
Kanata Bowl (Kanata): The suburban classic, renovated and running well. Great for family groups or anyone who wants the full bowling experience without booking complexity.
Bowlerama (Bells Corners): Ottawa's largest bowling facility offers both traditional and cosmic bowling. Friday and Saturday cosmic bowling nights are popular with the 20-35 crowd.
Shuffleboard and Darts
Several Ottawa bars have installed shuffleboard tables and electronic darts over the past few years. Pub Italia (Preston Street) and a few Westboro spots offer these as walk-in activities without the booking required for axe throwing.
The Verdict
For a truly memorable group outing, axe throwing wins on novelty. For something more relaxed with a wider age range, bowling or shuffleboard is the call. Either way, you're guaranteed more memorable than another Tuesday at the same restaurant.
Source: Kitchissippi Times
