Ottawa knows how to do weekends right. Whether you're a lifelong resident or still discovering the city's neighbourhoods, the capital consistently delivers a mix of outdoor fun, cultural programming, and great local food to fill your Saturday and Sunday.
Get Outside
Spring is settling in across Ottawa, which means it's time to dust off the bike or lace up the walking shoes. The NCC's multi-use pathways along the Rideau River and Ottawa River are some of the best urban trails in Canada — flat, scenic, and accessible from most parts of the city. Dow's Lake and Commissioners Park are also worth a visit, especially as the tulips begin to bloom ahead of the Canadian Tulip Festival season.
If you want to stretch your legs a little further, Gatineau Park just across the river offers hiking trails with sweeping views of the Ottawa Valley. The Champlain Lookout trail is a classic for a reason.
Explore Local Markets
The ByWard Market is always a strong weekend anchor. Whether you're picking up fresh produce, browsing local artisan goods, or grabbing a beaver tail, it's one of those Ottawa experiences that never really gets old. Check out the surrounding streets too — the Market neighbourhood has quietly become one of the best spots in the city for independent cafés and boutique shopping.
For a more neighbourhood feel, keep an eye on community markets popping up in Westboro, Hintonburg, and Glebe as warmer weather returns.
Catch Something Cultural
Ottawa's arts scene tends to pick up in spring, with local theatres, galleries, and music venues filling their calendars. The National Arts Centre consistently has live performances across theatre, dance, and music — it's worth checking their schedule if you haven't already. The Ottawa Art Gallery in the ByWard Market area is free to visit and regularly features rotating exhibitions from local and national artists.
The Canadian Museum of Nature and the Canadian War Museum are also solid picks, especially if you've got out-of-town guests in tow. Both are world-class institutions that Ottawa residents sometimes take for granted.
Eat and Drink Well
Ottawa's food scene has grown significantly in recent years, with new restaurant openings spread across neighbourhoods from Hintonburg to Centretown to Orleans. Weekends are a great time to try that new brunch spot you've been eyeing, catch a happy hour on a Sparks Street patio, or explore some of the city's excellent ethnic food options along Preston Street or in Chinatown.
Just Wander
Sometimes the best Ottawa weekends are unplanned ones. The city rewards those who wander — from the limestone architecture of the Glebe to the murals of Vanier, there's always something new to notice. Grab a coffee and let the city do the rest.
However you choose to spend it, Ottawa has more than enough to make your weekend worthwhile.
Source: To Do Canada via Google News Ottawa
