Summary of Places to Visit in Ottawa During Fall
Best Places to Visit in Ottawa in the Fall
Note: Some activities may be affected by COVID-19. Check with each attraction for opening hours and activities, as things are constantly changing in Ontario.
1. Take an e-Bike Tour with Escape Bicycle Tours
Start your adventure at Spark’s Street with Escape Bicycle Tours. This two-hour tour is perfect for exploring Ottawa’s key highlights in a safe and relaxed setting. Cycling through Ottawa’s beautiful trails guarantees a comfortable and enjoyable experience for the whole family.
The tour covers downtown Ottawa, Gatineau, and iconic spots including the Canadian Museum of History, providing excellent opportunities for stunning photographs of Parliament Buildings.
2. Take a Helicopter Tour – Fall Colours from Above
For a breathtaking view of Ottawa’s fall foliage, join a doors-off helicopter tour. Experience the breathtaking beauty of the colorful forests surrounding the city, as well as iconic sights like the Parliament Buildings and downtown Ottawa.
- Visit Heli Tremblant for details
- Watch our BiPlane Flight over Ottawa
3. Sleep with Wolves at Parc Omega
Experience Canadian wildlife up close at Parc Omega. Spending the night in a log cabin within the wolf sanctuary makes for an unforgettable adventure. With amenities like a kitchen and a private viewing platform, visitors can marvel at wolves and bears in their natural habitat.
4. Escape Manor
Engage in an exhilarating escape room experience at Escape Manor. Work collaboratively with friends to uncover clues and solve intricate puzzles. The various themed rooms provide unique challenges, ensuring a fun bonding experience that piques curiosity and excitement.
5. Visit Mackenzie King’s Estate
Mackenzie King’s Estate is a picturesque destination, particularly beautiful in autumn surrounded by the vibrant colors of Gatineau Park. Explore this historic estate early to avoid crowds, and immerse yourself in the tranquil surroundings that resemble a European royal estate.
6. Hide in a Bunker
Discover the Diefenbunker, a fascinating Cold War era site designed as a shelter for government officials. This unique attraction offers a captivating glimpse into history, even if it evokes a sense of unease about life underground.
Experience the intriguing tour, which reveals the secrets of this significant Cold War museum.
7. Take a Beer Tour
Explore Ottawa’s vibrant microbrew culture by embarking on a beer tour. Sit back and enjoy the experience as local breweries showcase their finest selections. Engaging, informative, and entertaining, these tours provide a unique taste of Ottawa’s local scene.
8. Flora Hall Brewing
If you’re not in the mood for a tour, consider visiting Flora Hall Brewing. This local craft brewery in a converted garage boasts a welcoming atmosphere, diverse menu options, and a chance to savor exceptional craft beers.
9. The Rideau Canal
Rent a bike and cycle along the Rideau Canal, a prominent attraction in Ottawa. Whether it’s summer or winter, the canal is bustling with activity. Enjoy a leisurely bike ride from downtown to Dows Lake Pavilion while taking in the stunning fall scenery.
10. Haunted Walks
Experience Ottawa’s spooky side through its famous haunted walks. Led by knowledgeable guides, these tours reveal the eerie tales and haunted locations throughout the city, promising an exciting adventure for thrill-seekers.
11. Pumpkinferno
Join Canada’s premier Halloween event at Pumpkinferno in Upper Canada Village. Located just 30 minutes outside of Ottawa, this mesmerizing light show features intricate scenes entirely made from pumpkins. It’s a delightful experience for both children and adults.
12. Hike Pink Lake
The Pink Lake hike in Gatineau National Park provides stunning views through a picturesque boardwalk. It’s the perfect spot to soak in the colorful autumn hues, so arrive early to ensure you capture the beauty without the crowds.
13. Sunrise at Meech Lake
Experience the serene beauty of sunrise at Meech Lake in Gatineau Park. The mist rising off the lake at dawn creates a peaceful atmosphere, showcasing the rich colors of the landscape.
14. Explore the ByWard Market
Don’t miss the ByWard Market, a vital part of Ottawa’s culture and history. This bustling market is not only a great place to shop for seasonal produce but also ideal for grabbing a bite and picking up fantastic Canadian souvenirs.
15. C’est Bon Food tour
Indulge in a culinary journey with the C’est Bon Food tour, which explores downtown Ottawa and ByWard Market. Sample a variety of delicious Canadian treats while discovering hidden gems within the city.
16. Explore Ottawa’s History at the ByTown Museum
The ByTown Museum presents fascinating exhibits chronicling Ottawa’s history, known as Bytown. For a minimal fee, this museum provides a peek into the past, including a visit to the historic vault.
17. Watch the Sun Set from the Andaz Hotel
Cocktail hour at the Andaz Hotel’s rooftop offers breathtaking sunset views over Ottawa. The inviting ambiance and diverse cocktail menu set the stage for a delightful evening.
18. Visit Canada’s Busiest Museum
The Canadian Museum of History showcases Canada’s rich heritage through engaging exhibits. This interactive museum is a must-see, particularly for those interested in the cultural aspects of Canadian history.
19. Relax at Nordik Spa Nature
Unwind after an eventful day at Nordik Spa Nature, located just outside the city. With serene plunge pools and various saunas, it’s the ideal retreat to enjoy nature’s beauty while rejuvenating your body and mind.
Government Tours
Currently, government buildings in Ottawa are closed to the public, but updates will be available soon.
20. Tour of the House of Commons West Block – Closed
The House of Commons is undergoing renovations but offers a temporary outdoor area for exploration. Those who visit the outdoor square can appreciate the intricate transition, maintaining the charm of Canada’s parliamentary heritage.
21. Tour the Senate – Closed
The historic Ottawa train station, now housing the Senate, is a captivating sight worth the visit. Together with a tour of Parliament, it enriches visitors’ understanding of the Canadian government and its stunning architecture.
Where to Stay in Ottawa
Lord Elgin – A beautiful hotel in downtown, close to popular local attractions.
Andaz – Ideal for exploring ByWard Market and enjoying the rooftop lounge.
Fairmont Chateau Laurier – Perfect location near the canal and Parliament buildings, featuring a pool and three restaurants.
The Westin Ottawa provides excellent views of the city, located along the Rideau Canal.
Travel Planning Resources
For your travel planning, we recommend utilizing these reliable resources:
Find Flights: Discover the best flight deals through Skyscanner.
Hotel Booking: Use Booking.com for Europe, or TripAdvisor elsewhere for the best hotel deals.
Apartments: For affordable rentals, explore VRBO.
Travel Insurance: Ensure you acquire travel insurance prior to departure. We recommend Safety Wing for occasional travelers.
Activity Reservations: Consider Get Your Guide for a variety of activities and tours.
If you enjoyed this guide to Ottawa, be sure to save it for your future travel planning.
This trip to Ottawa is in partnership with Tourism Ottawa. For more details on traveling to Ottawa, visit their website.
