Summer transforms Ottawa from political capital to a playground of patios, paddles, and festivals. Whether you're unwinding along the Rideau Canal or chasing live tunes at ByWard Market, here’s your go-to local guide.

Paddle, Stroll & Explore the Capital

Rent a kayak or paddleboard through Ottawa SUP or Rideau Canal Cruises and glide past Parliament Hill. On land, enjoy scenic strolls or bike rides along the Rideau Canal Pathway or through the vibrant ByWard Market.

Festivals & Events Worth Planning Around

• Ottawa Bluesfest (July): A massive outdoor music festival featuring international headliners.

• Capital Pride (August): A weekend of vibrant performances, parades, and community events.

• RBC Ottawa Dragon Boat Festival (June): A river event that mixes racing, food trucks, interactive zones, and live music.

Eat, Drink & Be Social

Start your morning at Wilf & Ada’s, a local brunch favourite. For lunch or dinner downtown, try Play Food & Wine for shareable small plates, or sample octopus and seafood at Beckta Dining & Wine. And no patio season is complete without a rooftop drink at Bar Lupulus, overlooking Parliament.

Day Trips & Nature Escapes

Less than 30 minutes away, Gatineau Park offers endless hiking, swimming, and mountain biking. For a more urban-nature mix, check out the lookout at Nepean Point or the wildflower boardwalk at Mer Bleue Conservation Area.

Culture, Museums & History

• Parliament Hill: Attend the gorgeous daily Changing of the Guard ceremony.

• Visit the Canadian Museum of History just across the river, or explore interactive exhibits at the Canadian Museum of Nature downtown.

• Wander through the National Gallery of Canada, where summer exhibits make art an alfresco experience.

Ottawa’s summer is a vibrant tapestry of outdoor adventure, cultural events, fabulous food, and riverside relaxation. Whether you’re here for the long haul or just a weekend, this city turns summer into its own highlight reel.