Stay Awhile: The Art of an Ottawa Staycation

by Connie Paris

There are also many things to do in and around Ottawa – activities that fit all interests and budgets! Here’s a starter kit for your Summer Adventure Jar.

National Capital Commission:  So much good stuff right in our backyard! The River House, pop-up waterfront bistros, hiking, bike days, and visiting a local farm are just a few options. Check out NCC Summer Activities for all you need.

The National Capital Greenbelt: The Greenbelt is a protected area of green space encircling Ottawa, mostly owned by the NCC, that includes farms, forests, and wetlands. The Greenbelt offers trails for walking, hiking, biking, picnicking, and bird watching. Some are accessible. Some allow dogs, on leash. For more information, see Visitor Information.

Close to the Carlingwood neighbourhood are the over 40 km of trails of the Stony Swamp sector. Located in the southwest end of Ottawa, Stony Swamp features a network of beaver ponds, wetlands, and forests and is the most ecologically diverse protected area in the Ottawa Valley.

City of Ottawa: Check out Ottawa tourism for up-to-date event information all summer long. Local markets, NAC Jukebox Lunch Concerts, beekeeping workshops, night kayaking on the canal – the list is as varied as it is endless. Our city punches above its weight in summer fun.

Engage with Indigenous culture: Ottawa is built on the traditional, unceded territory of the Algonquin Anishinaabe Nation. Support Indigenous-owned businesses, partake in celebrations, check out beautiful Kíwekí Point in downtown Ottawa. Get started here.

Still have energy? How about the Outaouais? This Quebec region has you covered – nature, culture, festivals, local producers, pick-your-own, and more. The Outaouais tourismpage is your one-stop-shop for local enjoyment and adventure across the river.