Ottawa can be a great place to visit any time of year, but during the winter months there are special things to do that make the city even more appealing. In this article, we’ll list some of the top 10 things to do in and around Ottawa during the winter, so you can plan your trip and enjoy all that the city has to offer!

Ice Skating

One of the best things to do in and around Ottawa during the winter is go ice skating. There are several places where you can go ice skating in Ottawa, and each one has its own unique attractions.

One of the most popular places to ice skate in Ottawa is the Rideau Canal. This canal is filled with freezing cold water, and it makes for a great skating rink. You can also go ice skating at the parliament buildings in downtown Ottawa. This is a great place to watch the skaters as they glide across the rink.

If you want to avoid the crowds, then you should try going ice skating at one of the smaller rinks. These rinks are usually located inside private facilities, so you will have more privacy while you skate.

No matter where you go ice skating in Ottawa, make sure to wear a coat and boots because it can get quite cold out there!

Skiing

One of the best things to do in Ottawa during the winter is to ski. There are several ski resorts within a short drive of Ottawa, and they all have great facilities and slopes.

If you’re a beginner, there are plenty of beginner slopes available at each resort. If you’re an experienced skier, there are also plenty of challenging slopes for you to explore. You can also go snowboarding or skiing at nearby resorts if you want to experience something different.

There are plenty of other things to do in Ottawa during the winter. If you’re interested in shopping, visit one of the many malls in the area. If you’re a fan of history, visit some of the historical sites in the city. Or, if you just want to enjoy a warm weather day, take a hike in one of the many nearby parks.

Snowshoeing

If you’re looking for a great way to spend your winter holidays, one option is to go snowshoeing. This activity can be enjoyed by all levels of fitness, and it’s a great way to get some exercise while enjoying the beautiful scenery of Ottawa.

There are many different places in Ottawa where you can go snowshoeing. In the Centretown neighbourhood, you can visit the Rideau River Park. Here, you’ll find a number of trails that will take you through the woods and over the river.

Another great place to go snowshoeing is Gatineau Park. This park has a wide variety of trails that will take you through the forests and along the lakes. You can also try out some of the more challenging trails here.

If you’re looking for a shorter hike that still offers plenty of scenic views, try out Snowman Hill in Kanata. This hill has several trails that lead up to its summit, where you can enjoy beautiful views of Ottawa valley below.

If you’re looking for a more challenging hike, try out The Cliffs at Manotick Falls in Manotick. This trail leads up to an overlook with stunning views of the Ottawa

Cross-country skiing

One of the best things to do in and around Ottawa during the winter is cross-country skiing. There are many ski trails in the area that are perfect for beginners or experts. The trails are well-maintained and the temperatures are usually mild enough to make it comfortable to ski even in the winter.

If you’re looking for a more active winter activity, try snowshoeing. Snowshoeing is great exercise and it’s also fun to explore new trails in the area. You can also find snowshoe rentals in most towns in Ottawa during the winter.

If you’re looking for a place to stay while you’re in Ottawa, try one of the nearby hotels or resorts. They offer great amenities such as ski slopes, golf courses, and tennis courts.

Petting zoos

One of the best things to do in and around Ottawa during the winter is visit a petting zoo. There are several zoos in the area, each with its own unique attractions.

Petting zoos are great for kids of all ages. They provide a fun and interactive experience that is sure to keep them entertained. Plus, they’re a great way to teach children about animals and their natural habitats.

Zoos also offer visitors a chance to see some of the region’s most endangered animals. Many petting zoos operate on a species-specific basis, so visitors can see different types of animals that typically aren’t found in commercial zoos. This is a valuable opportunity for students who are interested in wildlife conservation.

If you’re looking for an activity that will keep you warm while you’re in Ottawa during the winter, consider visiting a petting zoo. They provide an enjoyable and informative experience that is sure to please all members of your family.

Theatre and concerts

One of the best things to do in and around Ottawa during the winter is to attend a theatre or concert. There are several theatres and concert venues in the area that offer excellent performances all year round.

Theatre fans will love the Royal Ottawa Theatre, which offers Broadway-style shows in a classy setting. The Auditorium Theatre offers concerts featuring top names in classical music. And finally, the National Arts Centre hosts a wide variety of performances, from Broadway shows to symphony concerts.

There are also plenty of events taking place throughout the winter that aren’t related to theatre or music. One great way to experience the cold weather is to go ice skating at one of the many skating rinks in the area. Or head out for a walk in nature at one of Ottawa’s many parks. There’s always something fun and exciting going on in and around Ottawa during the winter!

Museums

Museums are a great way to spend a winter day in Ottawa. There are many museums located in the city that offer a variety of different exhibits and activities. Some of the best museums to visit during the winter include the Canadian Museum of History, the Canada Aviation and Space Museum, and the National Gallery of Canada.

Other great things to do in Ottawa during the winter include visiting Parliament Hill, skating on the Rideau Canal, or taking a walk along the banks of the Ottawa River. There are also many restaurants and bars located in Ottawa that are open throughout the winter season.

Farmer’s markets

One of the best things to do in Ottawa during the winter is visit one of the farmer’s markets. These markets are a great place to buy fresh produce, bread, and cheese. You can also find special items like Christmas gifts and food for pets.

There are several farmer’s markets in Ottawa. The most popular one is the Winter Market at Lansdowne Park. This market is open from November 1st to March 31st every year. The Spring Market is also located at Lansdowne Park, and it opens on April 1st and closes on September 30th. There are also markets that are open throughout the winter at other locations in the city.

If you want to find a specific farmer’s market, you can use the Farmers Market Finder website. This website includes information about each market, including when it opens and closes, what products are available, and how to get there.

Winter festivals

There are many winter festivals in and around Ottawa that are sure to get your holiday spirit going. Some of the best winter festivals in Ottawa include the Ottawa International Children’s Festival, the Ottawa Folk Music Festival, and the Winterlude Arts and Entertainment Festival.

Each festival has something different to offer, so there’s definitely something for everyone to enjoy. The Ottawa International Children’s Festival features exhibits from around the world and family-friendly entertainment. The Ottawa Folk Music Festival bills itself as Canada’s largest folk music festival, and it features a variety of performances from local and international artists. The Winterlude Arts and Entertainment Festival is a festive event that takes place in both the Civic Centre and Lansdowne Park during the last week of January. It offers a variety of events, including concerts, markets, and family-friendly activities.

So whether you’re looking for something fun to do during the cold months or you just want to enjoy some festive atmosphere, there are plenty of winter festivals in and around Ottawa that are sure to meet your needs.

How to get the most out of your Ottawa winter

There’s so much to do in and around Ottawa during the winter that it can be hard to decide what to do first! Here are some of our top suggestions:

1. Get out on the ice: Ottawa is home to some of the best ice skating in Canada, and there are plenty of places to skate in all of Ottawa. Check out the Rideau Canal Skateway or George Street Ice Rink for some serious ice action.

2. Bundle up and go skiing: If you’re looking for a little more challenge, head over to Kanata Ski Resort for a day of skiing. They have a wide range of slopes for all abilities, from beginner to expert. You can also take a day trip out to Sun Peaks Resort for a bit more excitement.

3. Get lost in Gatineau: The city of Gatineau is home to many beautiful gardens and parks, perfect for a day spent exploring on your own. Head to Parc Jean-Drapeau for a stroll through the botanical gardens, or explore Pontiac Park for a hike or picnic lunch.

4. Catch an outdoor concert: Ottawa has some great outdoor venues that host concerts all winter long. Festivals like