City: Ottawa
Top Things to do in Ottawa
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10 Nature & Parks in Ottawa That You Shouldn't Miss
Canada's capital is a compact, clean, cleverly planned center of culture and politics and a destination for every season. Start downtown at the architecturally stunning National Gallery of Canada, and don't miss the Canadian Museum of Nature and the Canada Aviation and Space Museum. Rideau Canal offers boating in the summer and turns into the world’s largest skating rink when frozen in the winter. Gatineau Park attracts cyclists and walkers, while Byward Market blends old and new Ottawa.
Restaurants in Ottawa
1. Jack Pine Trail
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 1 reviews
2. Morris Island Conservation Area
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 14 reviews
Reviewed By LidaS993 - Ottawa, Canada
Nice variety of trails, some good for wheelchair or stroller. Peaceful and pretty even in November with all the leaves fallen. The smell of fall leaves was great. The moss and tree trunks were beautiful. Lots of Canada Geese and ducks in the waters. Glad we went
3. Humanics Sanctuary & Sculpture Park
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 46 reviews
Come and experience this hidden jewel just outside Cumberland Village in Ottawa. Discover sculptures carefully placed in a natural setting at this nine-acre wooded ravine with walking trails and quaint bridges over a meandering creek. The Humanics sanctuary and sculpture park is a unique multi-cultural, multi-religious and multi-generational Canadian Institution focused on promoting principles of non-violence, human development, justice and peace. Free Parking! Entrance Fees (cash only) Adults: $7.50 Students/Seniors: $5.00 Children under 12: Free Family Pass (2 adults & students under 18): $20.00 Associate Membership (Annual pass, unlimited visits): $25.00
Reviewed By melnor88 - Orillia, Canada
After my first visit earlier this summer, I bought a membership because I knew I'd be back! As I took my first steps down the beginning of the trail, I was overcome with a feeling of wonderment that I haven't had in years. It is truly breath-taking to see not just the intricate and ornate sculptures, but the profound love and immense dedication that has gone into planning and building this sanctuary. The natural surroundings are left mostly intact which adds to the whimsy and splendor of each sculpture, and the first time I went, it was fascinating to turn around each bend in the path to find the next work of art. The grounds are also worth exploring beyond just the area that includes the sculptures; there are beautiful garden areas and mixed media sculptures. A community garden yields lovely organic produce that you can usually purchase (by donation) at the check in booth each visit. Their tomatoes and Swiss chard are so flavorful! There is ample free parking on site and an outdoor washroom area. Bonus points; they are welcoming to fur babies! It's worth it to buy a membership to support their cause and because you will certainly want to visit again.
4. David Bartlett Park
5. Rideau Canal National Historic Site
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 5,259 reviews
One of the oldest landmarks in Ottawa, this canal is filled with boats in the summer and becomes the "World's Longest Skating Rink" in the winter.
Reviewed By kailenav - Vancouver Island, Canada
The canal is definitely a must see when you visit Ottawa. Best time to enjoy would be may - September when the canal is filled and boat tours are open, as well as in February during Winterlude. You can skate the entire canal weather permitting. If you are a cyclist, runner, or have a dog, there are lovely paths on either side of the canal that you can travel along. Even driving next to it - it’s so beautiful.
6. Hog's Back Falls
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 468 reviews
Beautiful 60-foot waterfall where the Rideau River and Rideau Canal part.
Reviewed By T6002SQsarahw - Ottawa, Canada
Located right across the road from Mooney's Bay, Hog's Back Falls are a wonderful place to visit no matter the season. They are even more impressive in the spring when the water levels are higher. The formation is unique and in summer/fall/winter you can clearly see the rock that gives the falls their name. It's harder to spot in the spring due to the high water levels. There are paved walking trails on on the parking lot side of the falls and there's a shorter, paved path to an observation area on the other side. A wide pedestrian bridge allows visitors to cross safely over the falls. There is also a paved path that goes under the road and allows you to connect to Mooney's Bay beach. The Rideau Canal is also nearby, just on the other side of the river. The park at the falls is small but well kept with many mature trees. Washroom facilities are available in the summer months and I think there's a canteen as well. Hog's Back Falls are just one of Ottawa's many examples of spectacular nature nestled in the middle of an urban area.
7. Major's Hill Park
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 350 reviews
This pretty park is located near several museums, churches and the Ottawa River.
Reviewed By FarAway752596
Amazing park very well maintained, with beautiful views to the river, islands, bridges and a very nice tavern. A space just to relax, walk, take pictures and enjoy!
8. Sir John A. MacDonald Parkway
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 390 reviews
Reviewed By ChrisPat1234
We brought our bikes to do some outdoor activity and biking along the parkway was beautiful. Nice paved paths along the river.
9. Arboretum (Experimental Farm)
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 282 reviews
Reviewed By M6975VUmariaf - Ottawa, Canada
Whether you want to walk, bike, jog, relax on grass, find sun or shade, experience beautiful trees, forest, butterfly garden, canal, lakes, or locks, it’s all here in this special, gorgeous place.
10. National Capital Greenbelt
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 79 reviews
Dubbed the "emerald necklace," this rural landscape spans 200 square-kilometers of open space containing farms, forests, natural areas, recreational facilities, and public and private research complexes.
Reviewed By psoulliere - Ottawa, Canada
Cross country skiing was excellent during the past season, able to see various bird, wild turkeys, an owl. Outdoor enthusuasts enjoy!
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