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Best spots to go for a walk in Ottawa

Best spots to go for a walk in Ottawa

Whether looking for an escape from the hustle and bustle or an outdoor walking spot to enjoy a sunny day, these are the bests ones in Ottawa!

Spots to go for a walk in Ottawa

Walking is an excellent exercise and enjoyable outdoor activity. It helps you lose body fat and maintains a healthy weight. Going for a walk prevents various conditions, including high blood pressure, heart disease, Type-2 diabetes, and cancer, but it also improves your cardiovascular fitness and strengthens your muscles and bones. Here are the best spots to go for a walk in Ottawa.

Major’s Hill Park

Located close to the city’s famous ByWard Market and several other attractions, this Park is a great place to relax at the end of a busy tourism day. It is the first Park created in Ottawa and today one of the most remarkable and popular among residents for almost 200 years.

As in its inception, Major’s Hill Park is the center of city events and events, particularly the annual Canada Day celebrations. Its convenient central location offers some of the best scenery, with spectacular views of Parliament Hill, the Ottawa River, and the Rideau Canal Locks, making it a perfect spot for a morning or evening walk.

Brewer Park

Situated on the north side of the Rideau River, this Park has become a popular recreational spot for students from neighboring Carleton University. The Park was constructed in1954 and renovated in 2006.

Now the central elements of the Park are an impressive swimming pool and an arena for hockey games and skating. The Park is an excellent place for walking, running, and other outdoor activities, such as a family picnic, morning coffee, playground games, football matches, or leisurely yoga classes.

Confederation Park

Located in the city center, Confederation Park plays a crucial role in the city’s various events, including the Winterlude ice sculpture festival, Canada Day celebrations, and the famous annual summer International Jazz Festival.

Opened in 1967 as part of the country’s 100th-anniversary celebration, this Park is now an integral part of the Ottawa tourist itinerary. Here you will find the South African War Memorial and the National Monument to Indigenous Veterans.

The Park has different walking and running trails and paths, allowing locals and tourists to enjoy the picturesque views and improve their health by pumping blood from their hearts. Indeed, it is an excellent place to enjoy morning and evening walks.

Andrew Haydon Park

Another of the city’s coastal parks, Andrew Haydon Park, is located on the banks of the Ottawa River and is surrounded by a pier. Often overlooked, however, this is a worthwhile place with fantastic scenery.

The Park has bicycle paths, walking trails, unique areas for walking dogs, playgrounds thought out to the smallest detail with clean sandpits for toddlers and older children, barbecue tables.

In addition, there is everything you need for relaxation for every taste. Thanks to its proximity to the beach and equipped changing rooms, sunbathers will feel very comfortable in the shade of trees with a book in their hands after a morning walk.

Gatineau Park

Although Gatineau is technically outside the city because it is four kilometers from the center of Ottawa, its status as a regional reserve guarantees the exceptional state of the Park and the presence of several natural sceneries and objects.

So, if you have a car and want to experience a unique walk early in the morning or evening, we recommend visiting this place. In addition, Gatineau Park is home to many plant species, wild animals, including 118 rare or endangered species, and reservoirs of 50 amazing lakes.

In the warm season, locals and tourists appreciate the possibility of walking and cycling. Besides, it has an extensive network of hiking trails, creating conditions for rowing and rock climbing lovers. Without exaggeration, this is an ideal place to relax from the hustle and bustle of the city.

Final Words

Ottawa has awe-inspiring tourist attractions with lush green and natural environments, attracting people worldwide. But do you know the city has some of the best parks that drive locals and tourists to relish outdoor activities, like walking, jogging, running, and exercising? Yes, this is true. Today’s article has given you a list of the best spots for walking in Ottawa.

  • Article based on personal opinion, experience and research.
  • Photos from Unsplash & canva.
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What is Ottawa famous for?

What is Ottawa famous for?

Do you want to know about Ottawa’s best sites to explore and things to do? If yes, you are in the right place. Here is what you need to know!

What is Ottawa famous for?

The capital of Canada, Ottawa, was founded in the 19th century. It was a small working settlement for the builders of the Rideau Canal, and it was initially called Bytown. A lot has changed over the past 190 years, and today Ottawa is a magnificent metropolis with many exciting sights. So, what is Ottawa famous for in Canada? Here is the answer. Read on!

Beautiful Festivals

At any time of the year in Ottawa, it is easy to become a member of many international festivals. For example, an animation film festival has been organized since 1976. It is considered the second most respected in the world.

In addition, Ottawa is considered one of the most musical cities in North America, as it has long hosted the Jazz Festival, the world’s largest Chamber Music Festival and the Ottawa Folk Music Festival.

Shopping Paradise

Shopping in Ottawa is just a fairy tale for locals and tourists. Most often, shopaholics start their “hunt” from the Byward market. It has many stores, shops, cafes, and restaurants.

Ottawa is the epitome of affordable and luxury shopping in Canada. So, if you want to get the most out of your trip to Ottawa, make sure you visit its beautiful shopping malls, supermarkets, and traditional stalls.

We recommend trying at least a couple of local dishes in the cafe—for example, waffles with maple syrup. You can spend the whole day at the market because this place offers plenty of sites to see and things to do.

Mesmerizing Buildings

Despite the relatively young age, Ottawa has something to show the tourists. In particular, the former church of St. Brigid is of great interest to tourists. Today it houses the center of Irish cultural heritage.

Similarly, no less attention is attracted by the beautiful neo-Gothic Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica, Chateau Laurier, and the monumental parliament building. These historic buildings will mesmerize you, and their unique architecture will leave you in awe.

Home to Museums

Ottawa is known for its museums. The Canadian War Museum, the Air and Space Museum, and the Royal Canadian Mint are especially popular among them. You can get acquainted with the numismatic exposition and see how commemorative coins are minted.

The Canadian War Museum is dedicated to the nation’s military history and has a vast collection of materials, ranging from manuscripts and artifacts several centuries old. There are exhibitions related to the wars fought in the yesteryears.

Lush Green Parks

Ottawa is an immaculate and green city. There are about a thousand parks, different in design and purpose. In the metropolis, there is always the opportunity at any time to find a cozy place in one of the green areas to take a break from the bustle of the city.

Besides, it is worth visiting Gatineau Park, striking with the beauty of landscapes and Confederation Park. In the latter, monuments to Canadian soldiers’ participants in various wars are erected, and in winter, an ice sculpture competition is held as part of the famous Winterlude festival.

There are three parks on the western bank of the Rideau River. For instance, Strathcona and the adjoining Duchy’s Hole Park and Robinson Field. Strathcona Park has had a baseball field for almost 100 years, and Duchy’s Park Hole has a football field.

In the summer, swans, including black Australian swans, live in park ponds, and in winter, the hills in the parks are a great place for sledding and snowboarding. Parks in Ottawa have an immense natural beauty that will soothe your mind and relax your heart. Therefore, visiting this place with your family or friends is worth your time.

Entertainment Hub of Canada

A 20-minute drive from the capital is the small village of Wakefield, which attracts both thrill-seekers and bohemian representatives with an abundance of art galleries, pubs, and cozy cafes.

People who like to relax in the heart of nature find Ottawa and its nearby areas the best place. Other popular activities are horseback riding, dog sledding, canoeing, kayaking, golf.

Final Words

Ottawa is home to a unique culture, picturesque city views, monumental buildings, diverse cuisines, lush green parks, winter and summer festivals, and many other things that will leave you in awe. Visiting the city is a must for everyone to relish the natural beauty, participate in fun activities, and satisfy their taste buds with delectable food. Until Next Time!

  • Article based on personal opinion, experience and research.
  • Photos from Unsplash & canva.
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Best Provincial & National Parks to Visit in Ontario

Best Provincial & National Parks to Visit in Ontario

Do you want to explore the natural beauty of Ontario? If yes, the best way to do this is by visiting these national and provincial parks in Ontario. Read here!

Provincial & National Parks to Visit in Ontario

Ontario, Canada’s most populous province, is more associated with bustling urban centers than majestic national and provincial parks. However, these are some of Ontario’s best tourist attractions, just waiting to be discovered.

Immersing yourself in nature enhances your physical and mental health. With many parks open all year round now is the time to enjoy Ontario’s abundance of outdoor activities. Hiking, camping, canoeing, and cross-country skiing are just a few of the things you can do in Ontario’s parks. Read on!

1. Point Pelee National Park

Canada’s smallest national park is not to be underestimated. Despite its size, Point Pelee is one of Ontario’s most popular tourist destinations, offering plenty to do all year round. It has a rich diversity of ecosystems.

These include savannas wetlands, forests, and beaches. The park is particularly rich in migratory birds. Explore the hiking trails, such as the famous Swamp Boardwalk, canoe or kayak in the wetlands, or swim and picnic on the beach to feel closer to the landscape.

2. Bruce Peninsula National Park

The Bruce Peninsula National Park is defined by its charming coves, dramatic cliffs, and captivating views over the turquoise waters of Georgian Bay, making it one of the most exciting road trips from Toronto or Ottawa.

Campers at Cypress Lake can enjoy a hike to one of the park’s most popular attractions, the Grotto, a sparkling sea cave. Outdoor activities in the park include bouldering, bird watching, camping, hiking, kayaking, scuba diving, and stargazing, making it one of Ontario’s most famous national parks for families and outdoor enthusiasts.

3. Killarney Provincial Park

Killarney Provincial Park is one of the best provincial parks for camping in Ontario, offering year-round camping in a peaceful setting in the wilderness, canoeing into the backcountry, and heated winter cabins.

With stunning views of the shores of Georgian Bay, unobtrusive paddling on Lake George, and hiking trails for all levels, from leisurely strolls to popular tracks, you can enjoy the beautiful lake and views at the top of the mountain.

4. Algonquin Provincial Park

When it comes to quintessential Ontario provincial parks, Algonquin is the first that comes to mind, and for a good reason. Canada’s oldest park has long enjoyed a reputation as a spectacular natural playground and one of Ontario’s finest provincial parks.

With 7,635 square kilometers of cliffs, forests, lakes, and rivers to explore and various outdoor activities to enjoy, Algonquin is a treasure trove of adventure. The park is teeming with wildlife, so don’t be surprised if you encounter bears, moose, wolves, civets, and more.

5. Lake Superior Provincial Park

Lake Superior Provincial Park is where adventurers flock for the spectacular views of the northeastern shore of Ontario’s largest lake and the unparalleled hiking trails. Here, visitors can enjoy various outdoor activities such as camping, canoeing, and fishing.

The park is designated as a Dark Sky Reserve, which means there is almost no light pollution, and on a clear night, you can gaze at the magnificent starry sky. Far from urban areas, the unspoiled nature of Lake Superior Provincial Park makes it one of the best road trips in Ontario.

6. French River Provincial Park

French River is a beautiful provincial park in Ontario for paddling enthusiasts and nature explorers. The backcountry park is perfect for exploring by boat and relishing the picturesque views of Lake Nipissing and Georgian Bay. Previously, the place was famous for French voyageurs, trappers, fur traders, and missionaries.

Today, it is the best place for motorboat sports, kayaking, canoeing, and other outdoor activities. You can stay at the beautiful and rustic-luxe lodges. Don’t forget to explore the visitors’ center, an award-winning spot in the heart of French River Provincial Park. The Canadian government has made substantial efforts to maintain the area and preserve flora and fauna.

Final Words

National and provincial parks in Canada offer adventure lovers a wide range of adrenaline-pumping activities. These national and provincial parks are best for rock climbing and zip-lining down the park’s beautiful forests and lush green spaces. These parks are also best for bicyclists, hikers, canoers, kayakers, and mountain bikers. Until Next Time!

  • Article based on personal opinion, experience and research.
  • Photos from Unsplash & canva.
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