Springtime in Ottawa: Things to See and Do
There are many great things to see and do at any time of year in Ottawa — and spring is no exception. If you’re coming to Ottawa during the spring months, make sure you take full advantage of the wide range of activities available.
1. See the Tulips
The best time of all to see tulips is mid-May during the Canadian Tulip Festival. During this time, there are more than one million tulips in bloom across the city. In Commissioners Park, the main site of the festival, there are about 300,000. There, in addition to the flowers, you will find open-air music events and be able to attend walking tours. To wrap up the festival, a fireworks show takes place on the Sunday of the Victoria Day long weekend.
2. Outdoor Activities
Make the most of the perfect spring weather by spending time outdoors. If you choose to go on foot, you can explore the ByWard Market neighbourhood and the outdoor art on the grounds of the National Gallery of Canada. Alternatively, experience the city by bike, cycling along the Rideau Canal (the only UNESCO World Heritage Site in Ottawa), the Ottawa River, and beyond. You can rent a bike if you didn’t bring your own.
If you’re looking to relax, take a Rideau Canal Cruise on an electric boat. Another option is a bus tour to see the entire city, passing museums and historic sites. You can stay on the bus for the entire tour or hop on and off over the course of a day.
3. Check Out the Museums
In the spring, the weather can still be cool in Ottawa, but there are also plenty of things to see and do indoors. For instance, Ottawa has a total of seven national museums, including the Canadian Museum of History, the Canadian Museum of Nature, and the Canadian War Museum.
4. Head to the Skies
At yet another museum, the Canada Aviation and Space Museum, you can see an amazing array of aircrafts. If you’re feeling adventurous, take a flight in a biplane used in World War II. You will even receive a helmet and goggles to complete the experience. It’s a unique way to see Ottawa – from above!
5. Taste the Flavours of Ottawa
Springtime in Ottawa is bursting with flavour. Whatever the time of day, you will be spoilt for choice. Make sure to check out the top brunch and dinner restaurants during your time in the city — whatever your dietary needs, there are many delicious options. Plus, don’t forget to try locally-brewed drinks, such as coffee from independent roasters and craft beer from one of the breweries.
Now’s the time to book your vacation in Canada’s capital! Like most cities, Ottawa hotels can be expensive. A more affordable alternative Ottawa hotel – near the airport – is RCC Ottawa West. With great rates for long-term stays, spacious two-bedroom suites, and a convenient location for seeing the sights, it’s the perfect vantage point from which to explore all that Ottawa has to offer in the spring.