Ottawa has a wealth of activities, attractions and things to do. You can take
a trip to Parliament Hill to see the seat of Canadian government, or experience
national museums. You can shop for a unique gift one of the many boutiques. Maybe you are looking for a thrilling adventure like white water rafting, world-class musical performances, or the city's exciting nightlife. Ottawa offers a variety that will delight and satisfy everyone from singles to couples to families, whether you are a tourist visiting the area or you work for a firm
and live in the heart of the city.
Ottawa residents are fortunate to have many different opportunities to be active, thanks to services provided by the City, the National Capital Commission, the school boards, colleges and universities, and other recreation service providers. Together these organizations provide a significant infrastructure of pathways, parks, green space and facilities. The City of Ottawa provides many programs and services directly, and supports others through its partnerships with community associations, sport groups and other like-minded organizations. Ottawa is a city that cares, and the evidence of this abounds. The City of Ottawa and Ottawa Police Service are committed to dealing with graffiti vandalism, for example, and strive to provide a clean, vibrant, safe and welcoming community for every resident, business, visitor, and their caregiver. Canada clearly has a great deal to be proud of when it comes to our national capital.
Parks, Waterways and Beaches
Ottawa's green spaces are an integral part of the city. Ottawa is green,
clean, and beautiful, so take advantage of the parks, pathways, or rivers, whether
you like to go for walks, bicycle rides or kayaking trips.
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Parks
The Ottawa region has many popular spots for relaxation and recreation, from
parks in the centre of downtown to the forest trails of Gatineau Park. Enjoy
your time away from the worries of at work and take
a leisurely stroll, a hike, or a scenic bike ride at one of these area parks:
Confederation park, Major's Hill Park, and Gatineau park.
Waterways
Ottawa boasts three major waterways: the Ottawa River, the Rideau River and
the Rideau Canal. These waterways provide several opportunities for boating
or cycling and walking on the adjoining pathways.
Beaches
Relax in the sand, swim in the water or play beach volleyball at one of Ottawa's
several beaches. This is the perfect spot to daydream, or plan out your next
business cards online venture. These include four supervised municipal beaches
just perfect for taking in the sun, located along the banks of the Ottawa or
Rideau River, or the vast number of beaches on the wooded banks of the clear
lakes in Gatineau Park. These beaches are a short drive away from the city centre.
Entertainment and Nightlife
Explore Ottawa at night! Ottawa offers a wide spectrum of entertainment and
night time activities, from the relaxed and intimate to the busy and trendy!
The Byward market in downtown Ottawa offers fine dining, trendy bars and clubs,
pubs and live music. Unwind in a safe and friendly atmosphere. Trendy restaurants,
cocktail bars, or lots of dancing can be found on Elgin Street. You can also
head to Bank Street for pubs and live music, or enjoy a relaxed atmosphere on
Preston street, the heart of Little Italy. Experience the thrills of Casino
Lac-Lemy where you can take in a show or enjoy the slot machines and gaming
tables.
Entertainment, Arts and Culture
Ottawa is a great place to experience art, theatre and music. There are many
options to choose from depending on your interests, age, or season. Be sure
you investigate what is listed in Spotlight - the City of Ottawa's calendar
for a complete listing of cultural events in and around town, including the
wealth of cultural festivals that Ottawa hosts each year. Canada has a great deal for you to discover
in this vibrant city. Check out the variety of visual arts exhibitions around
the city, ranging from classical painting to contemporary media arts. Ottawa
has a dynamic theatre scene that includes theatre companies and festivals. There
is something for everyone, from avant garde performances to classic theatre
to family entertainment. If you are looking for a musical performance in Ottawa
you can pick from popular acts at the Scotiabank Place, classical music at the
National Arts Centre, or head to the pubs, bars or music halls in the Byward
Market or Bank Street
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