Liam SmithOttawa, charming and adventurous all at once, is brimming with unique and memorable activities for those unforgettable dates. So buckle up, because we’ve compiled a fun-filled list of the most unforgettable date ideas in Ottawa.
Love will certainly be in the air as you explore and experience these exceptional date ideas, so read on!
- Glide together at the Rideau Canal Skateway
- Explore the magical Hog's Back Park on a sunny day
- Enjoy an afternoon tea at the Château Laurier
- Get artsy at the National Gallery of Canada
- Have fun at Altitude Gym climbing colourful walls
- Savour coffee at the Black Squirrel Books & Espresso Bar
- Wander through CF Rideau Centre’s vibrant stalls
- Experience history at the Canadian War Museum
- Share some gelato at Stella Luna
- Catch a film at the historic ByTowne Cinema
- Take a moonlit walk around Parliament Hill
- Test your teamwork at Escape Manor-Hintonburg
- Treat your palates to wines at KIN Vineyards
- Enjoy a play at the Ottawa Little Theatre
- Bike along the scenic Ottawa River Pathway
- Have a fancy dinner at the Riviera Ottawa
- Sample craft beers at Beyond the Pale Brewing Company
- Visit the lush Dominion Arboretum for a picnic
- Laugh together at Yuk Yuk's Ottawa comedy show
- Get your adrenaline rush on skydiving at Parachute Ottawa
Glide together at the Rideau Canal Skateway
Website: https://ncc-ccn.gc.ca/places/rideau-canal-skateway
Address: 1 Elgin St, Ottawa, ON K1P 5W1, Canada
Contact details: +1 613-239-5000
Operating hours:
- Open 24 hours
Cost: Free
The Rideau Canal Skateway isn’t just your ordinary skating rink; it’s the world’s largest naturally frozen rink. Stretching out over 7.8 kilometres, it winds its way through the very heart of the city.
Skating down this icy strip becomes, you know, a kind of scenic journey with charming views of downtown Ottawa and the Peace Tower. You can even warm up with a bowl of piping hot soup available at various rest stops along the canal.
| Pro tip: Parking can get a bit tricky during peak hours, so it’s better to use the free shuttle service that runs between each end of the skateway every 20 minutes. |
Explore the magical Hog’s Back Park on a sunny day
– Media credit: sfowler12
Website: https://ccn-ncc.gc.ca/endroits/le-parc-hogs-back
Address: 600 Hog’s Back Rd, Ottawa, ON K1V 1H8, Canada
Contact details: +1 613-239-5000
Operating hours:
- Monday to Sunday – 7 AM to 10 PM
Cost: Free
Just a stone’s throw away from Ottawa, Gatineau Park offers a rejuvenating escape from city clamour. The park boasts a labyrinth of meandering trails, picnic spots by the waterfalls, and a forest canopy.
If a stroll is too low-key for you both, you can strap on those hiking boots or grab a bicycle to traverse through the park’s terrain. Or maybe go and rent a canoe and paddle along the peaceful Philippe Lake.
| Pro tip: Remember to grab a map at the Visitor Center; it’s a lifesaver as the trails can get a bit confusing later in the day. Plus, entrance to the park won’t cost you a dime, but some facilities like parking and equipment rentals will incur a small fee. |
Enjoy an afternoon tea at the Château Laurier
Website: https://www.fairmont.com/laurier-ottawa/
Address: 1 Rideau St, Ottawa, ON K1N 8S7, Canada
Contact details: +1 613-241-1414
Operating hours:
- Open 24 hours
Cost: $$
Nuzzled in the heart of Ottawa, Château Laurier oozes grandeur and old-world charm. Its intricately designed interiors with soaring high ceilings and majestic chandeliers are nothing short of stepping into a royal abode.
The hotel’s famous afternoon tea offers a delectable array of options. They have traditional finger sandwiches, pastries, and scones, and hey, don’t stress if you aren’t a tea person, they’ve got your back with a range of coffee and juices.
| Pro tip: The afternoon tea is quite popular, and seats fill up quickly—better make a reservation in advance. |
Get artsy at the National Gallery of Canada
Website: http://www.gallery.ca/
Address: 380 Sussex Dr, Ottawa, ON K1N 9N4, Canada
Contact details: +1 613-990-1985
Operating hours:
- Tuesday to Sunday – 10 AM to 5 PM
Cost:
- Adults – $20
- Senior – $18
- Ages 24 and under/Students – $10
- Families – $40
- Children – Free
The National Gallery of Canada is a visual treat—even before you step inside! The gigantesque spider sculpture, Maman, guarding the entrance is unmissable, and once you sail past that, you’re welcomed by a vast collection of jaw-dropping artworks.
The Canadian and Indigenous galleries offer a representation of the country’s rich heritage, while the European and contemporary art collections blow you away with their sheer extravagance. You can also join the gallery’s guided tours and workshops.
| Pro tip: You can round off your date at the gallery’s picturesque café, which serves a delicious array of food and drinks with a side of splendid courtyard views. Plus, every Thursday evening, admission to the gallery is free! |
Have fun at Altitude Gym climbing colourful walls
Website: http://www.altitudegym.ca/
Address: 501 Palladium Dr #0E5, Stittsville, ON K2V 0E5, Canada
Contact details: +1 613-903-5989
Operating hours:
- Monday to Friday – 10 AM to 11 PM
- Saturday and Sunday – 9 AM to 10 PM
Cost:
- General admission – $21.50, $30.50 (w/shoes and harness rentals)
- Student – $18.50, $27.50 (w/shoes and harness rentals)
- 12 & under – $15.50, $26 (w/shoes and harness rentals)
- Companion (mandatory for children 12 & under) – $9.00
Altitude Gym isn’t your conventional gym; its climbing walls are vibrantly colourful, riddled with obstacles, and designed to keep things exciting. And the best part is, you guys don’t need to be Spider-Man to enjoy them here; they cater to all skill levels.
To up the ante, they even have a clip ‘n climb section, which feels like an amusement park meets rock climbing. I mean, who wouldn’t fancy scaling a gigantic Rubik’s cube or a towering skyscraper, eh?
| Pro tip: After your climbing shenanigans, you guys can retreat to their café for a well-earned treat. |
Savour coffee at the Black Squirrel Books & Espresso Bar
Website: http://www.blacksquirrelbooks.ca/
Address: 1073 Bank St, Ottawa, ON K1S 3W9, Canada
Contact details: +1 613-422-9050
Operating hours:
- Monday to Sunday – 9 AM to 5 PM
Cost: $
The Black Squirrel Books & Espresso Bar is a sanctuary for book and caffeine lovers. It’s a place where you can lose track of time exploring rare and antique books or engage in a sweet conversation over a cup of their signature espresso.
They’ve got comfy seating areas that are perfect for cozying up with a book or getting to know your date better.
| Pro tip: Don’t forget to keep an eye out for their event calendar because they often host poetry readings and local author nights. |
Wander through CF Rideau Centre’s vibrant stalls
Website: https://www.cfshops.com/rideau-centre.html?cid=lis_rid_en_hp_gb
Address: 50 Rideau St, Ottawa, ON K1N 9J7, Canada
Contact details: +1 613-236-6565
Operating hours:
- Monday to Saturday – 10 AM to 9 PM
- Sunday – 11 AM to 6 PM
CF Rideau Centre is a vibrant heart in the centre of Ottawa, where fashion, culture, and gastronomy meet. It isn’t just about the big brand names; it also features Canadian retailers that offer a glimpse into the local fashion scene.
The food court and various eateries within the mall serve everything from quick bites to gourmet meals, catering to all your hunger pangs.
| Pro tip: Always check out the mall’s website before your visit, since they often have special events or exhibits that can make your date even more interesting. |
Experience history at the Canadian War Museum
Website: https://www.warmuseum.ca/
Address: 1 Vimy Pl, Ottawa, ON K1A 0M8, Canada
Contact details: +1 800-555-5621
Operating hours:
- Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday to Sunday – 9 AM to 4 PM
- Thursday – 9 AM to 7 PM
Cost:
- Adult – $20
- Senior – $18
- Student – $15
- Ages 2 to 12 – $13
- Family (6 pax – 2 adults) – $50
The Canadian War Museum offers a journey through Canada’s military past. Far from being just another museum, it’s a beautifully designed space that captures Canada’s storied history of bravery and sacrifice.
The museum’s architecture itself is a conversation starter, with its bold, modern design symbolizing hope and regeneration. Inside, the exhibits range from the early days of conflict to contemporary peacekeeping missions.
| Pro tip: Admission is free every Thursday after 5 p.m. |
Website: https://www.facebook.com/StellaLunaCafe/
Address: 1103 Bank St, Ottawa, ON K1S 3X4, Canada
Contact details: +1 613-523-1116
Operating hours:
- Wednesday and Thursday – 11:30 AM to 8 PM
- Friday – 11:30 AM to 9 PM
- Saturday – 10 AM to 9 PM
- Sunday – 10 AM to 8 PM
Cost: $-$$
Stella Luna is where dessert dreams come true. This family-owned gelateria serves up authentic, award-winning gelato that’s been known to make people’s taste buds sing.
What sets Stella Luna apart is not just their incredible gelato but also their warm and inviting atmosphere. They also serve a variety of coffees, teas, and pastries, making it an ideal spot no matter what you’re in the mood for.
| Pro tip: If you can’t decide on a flavour, Stella Luna often lets customers sample before they choose. |
Catch a film at the historic ByTowne Cinema
– Media credit: _ddage
Website: http://bytowne.ca/
Address: 325 Rideau St, Ottawa, ON K1N 5Y4, Canada
Contact details: +1 613-789-4600
Operating hours:
- Schedules are changing, so keep up with their calendar website.
Cost: $$
The ByTowne Cinema is Ottawa’s premiere destination for indie, foreign, and art-house films. This place is a piece of Ottawa’s history, offering a unique cinematic experience that you won’t find in mainstream cinemas.
It’s a place where you can discover new genres, learn about different cultures through film, and share those experiences with someone special.
| Pro tip: Don’t forget to check the schedule in advance, as each film only has a few screenings. And remember, this cinema treasures punctuality—they don’t show ads, so the movie starts right at the listed time! |
Take a moonlit walk around Parliament Hill
– Media credit: everestproductionsmtl
Website: https://www.parl.ca/
Address: Wellington St, Ottawa, ON K1A 0A9, Canada
Contact details: +1 613-992-4793
Operating hours:
- Monday to Thursday – 8:30 AM to 6 PM
- Friday – 8:30 AM to 5 PM
Cost: Free
Walking around Parliament Hill under the celestial glow is about as romantic as it gets in Ottawa. In the silver light, the Gothic Revival architecture looks even more spectacular—it’s like stepping onto a set from an old-timey movie.
Now, Parliament Hill isn’t just for daytime because, by night, it transforms into this surprisingly peaceful oasis in the heart of downtown.
| Pro tip: There’s plenty of street parking around, which is a cinch to find in the evening. |
Test your teamwork at Escape Manor-Hintonburg
Website: http://escapemanor.com/ottawa
Address: 982 Wellington St. W, Ottawa, ON K1Y 2X8, Canada
Contact details: +1 613-695-1655
Operating hours:
- Thursday – 3 PM to 6 PM
- Friday – 3 PM to 12:30 AM
- Saturday – 11 AM to 12:30 AM
- Sunday – 11 AM to 8:30 PM
Cost: $-$$
Escape Manor in Hintonburg is a thrilling date option where you get to team up and tackle some truly imaginative escape rooms. From creepy asylums to mysterious cabins, each themed room has its storyline.
Here, you’ll be jumping for joy and high-fiving like champs with each puzzle you crack.
| Pro tip: Remember to book your escape room ahead online to snag your preferred time slot, ’cause they can fill up fast. |
Treat your palates to wines at KIN Vineyards
Website: http://kinvineyards.com/
Address: 2225 Craig’s Side Rd, Carp, ON K0A 1L0, Canada
Contact details: +1 613-519-1621
Operating hours:
- Thursday – 11 AM to 7 PM
- Friday and Saturday – 11 AM to 8 PM
- Sunday – 11 AM to 5 PM
Cost: $-$$
KIN Vineyards is all elegance and charm as you learn about the wine-making process, sip on some refined flavours, and just enjoy that “we fancy” moment together. This place has this vibrant energy with a touch of rustic grace.
Their wine list is like a love letter to the craft, and you two get to experience it up close and personal.
| Pro tip: Make sure to check the vineyard’s schedule; they often host cool events like live music or community harvests. And hey, dress comfy but chic because the backdrop is too cute not to snap some pics for the ‘Gram. |
Enjoy a play at the Ottawa Little Theatre
Website: http://www.ottawalittletheatre.com/
Address: 400 King Edward Ave, Ottawa, ON K1N 7M7, Canada
Contact details: +1 613-233-8948
Operating hours:
- Schedules depend on the event.
Cost: $-$$
Ottawa Little Theatre is the real deal, folks. Operating since 1913—yep, you heard that right—it’s a city gem where you can get your fill of drama, comedy, and now and then, a dash of a murder mystery.
Plus, its live theatre offers the suspense of watching actors pour their hearts out on stage, right at the moment.
| Pro tip: Don’t forget to peep their season schedule in advance, and if you’re digging the scene, consider snagging season tickets for a year-long string of date nights sorted. |
Bike along the scenic Ottawa River Pathway
– Media credit: ncc_ccn
Website: https://www.ontariotrails.on.ca/trail/ottawa-river-pathway
Contact details: +1 613-239-5000
Operating hours:
- Open 24 hours
Cost: Free
Biking along the Ottawa River Pathway is a full-on visual delight. We’re talking kilometres of smooth, well-maintained paths with views of the river running alongside you, green foliage, and the breeze gently coaxing you forward.
The pathway stitches together some of Ottawa’s prettiest spots, so feel free to hop off and take a breather whenever a view strikes your fancy or picnic spots call your name.
| Pro tip: Many bike rental spots dot the perimeter, so snagging a set of wheels is a snap. |
Have a fancy dinner at the Riviera Ottawa
Website: http://www.dineriviera.com/
Address: 62 Sparks St., Ottawa, ON K1P 5A5, Canada
Contact details: +1 613-233-6262
Operating hours:
- Sunday to Wednesday – 5 PM to 10 PM
- Friday to Saturday – 5 PM to 11 PM
Cost: $$-$$$
Riviera on Sparks Street is a place where you’re greeted by Art Deco glam the minute you step in—talk about a swanky setting. The vibe here is like Gatsby decided to open a joint in Ottawa, complete with all the glistening chandeliers and plush seats.
The chefs here flex their culinary muscles, so every dish that lands on your table is Instagram-worthy—but it ain’t just for show. And the staff could tell you what wine pairs with your shoes—they’re that good.
| Pro tip: Reservations are a must unless you fancy dining with your face stuck to the glass outside, longing for a table. |
Sample craft beers at Beyond the Pale Brewing Company
Website: http://www.btpshop.ca/
Address: 250 City Centre Ave Bay 106, Ottawa, ON K1R 6K7, Canada
Contact details: +1 613-668-2337
Operating hours:
- Monday to Thursday – 11 AM to 11 PM
- Friday and Saturday – 11 AM to 12 AM
- Sunday – 11 AM to 10 PM
Cost: $-$$
Pale Brewing Company has set up a shop in the heart of the City Centre, and it’s beaming with funky, down-to-earth energy that reels in beer lovers and fun seekers like bears to honey. Inside, it’s all industrial chic with a dash of eccentricity.
You get to sample everything from hoppy IPAs to smooth stouts, and maybe even discover a new fave together.
| Pro tip: Food trucks sometimes park out there, but you’ve also got the green light to bring in your munchies. |
Visit the lush Dominion Arboretum for a picnic
– Media credit: garmamie
Website: https://friendsofthefarm.ca/plan-your-visit/attractions/
Address: Arboretum, Ottawa, ON K1A 0C6, Canada
Contact details: +1 613-759-1982
Operating hours:
- Open 24 hours
Cost: Free
Dominion Arboretum has 64 acres of perfectly primped trees, flowers that pop like they’re showing off, and winding paths that whisper, “Hey, walk me.” There’s a spot around every bend to toss down your checkered blanket and dig into your spread.
And, bonus, you’re surrounded by botanical buffs’ dreams—a living library of tree species that could spark a chat about nature or, at the very least, look pretty.
| Pro tip: Weekends get snack-packed, so maybe shoot for a weekday rendezvous if you can swing it. |
Laugh together at Yuk Yuk’s Ottawa comedy show
Website: http://yukyuks.com/ottawawest
Address: 1394 Richmond Rd, Ottawa, ON K2B 6R8, Canada
Contact details: +1 343-575-7178
Operating hours:
- Wednesday to Saturday – 7 PM to 10 PM
Cost: $-$$
Yuk Yuk’s is the perfect icebreaker for a first date: you’re bound to have something to talk about after a few comedians have spilled their guts. Plus, they’ve got a variety of shows like an improv night or a set from a comic who’s about to hit the big time.
You might not want a full meal—belly laughs and bellyfuls can be a risky mix—but snacking on nachos while sipping a cold one sets the scene perfectly.
| Pro tip: There’s usually a two-drink minimum, so plan to sip on something while you giggle. |
Get your adrenaline rush on skydiving at Parachute Ottawa
Website: http://www.parachuteottawa.ca/
Address: 615 Johnston Rd, Arnprior, ON K7S 3G8, Canada
Contact details: +1 877-688-5867
Operating hours:
- Thursday and Friday – 9 AM to 6 PM
- Saturday and Sunday – 8 AM to 7 PM
Cost: $$-$$$
Just half an hour’s drive from downtown, Parachute Ottawa is the real deal for adventure. The trained instructors are all about safety and fun, plus they’ve got nerves of steel and jokes for days (a good thing when you’re about to jump from 12,000 feet).
Plus, you’ll get to watch your dive video together—if that’s not going to bring a second date, I don’t know what will.
| Pro tip: Remember to book your jump ahead of time, especially if you’re planning a weekend date. If you’re looking to save some cash, check out their special events and deals—sometimes you can find a two-for-one offer. |
