As Canada’s capital, Ottawa stands out for housing an extensive array of the country’s cultural treasures. For instance, the Canadian War Museum on Lebreton Flats offers in-depth exhibits on military history, while the Canadian Museum of Nature resides in the revitalized Victoria Memorial Museum building, drawing visitors with its vast natural history displays. Additionally, the Canada Science and Technology Museum has undergone a recent overhaul, featuring interactive exhibits on scientific advancements. Ottawa also preserves Cold War relics like the Diefenbunker, maintained in its authentic state, and the Canadian Aviation and Space Museum, which highlights key milestones in flight and exploration.
If you’re accustomed to the steep housing expenses in cities like Vancouver or Toronto, relocating to Ottawa could mean more affordable options for buyers. Of course, those coming from smaller towns or rural settings might not notice as much of a difference. Despite rising costs nearer to the downtown core, it’s often possible to find spacious homes here at prices that undercut those in other major Canadian urban centers, making it an attractive choice for many.
Ottawa ranks among Canada’s premier spots for witnessing the spectacular colors of autumn leaves. The city boasts a range of seasonal attractions that celebrate the shift in weather, ideal for exploring during this vibrant time. Here are five engaging activities to consider in Ottawa this fall, each offering a unique way to immerse yourself in the season.
1. Brewery Exploration
One enjoyable way to experience Ottawa is by joining a guided brewery tour that showcases the local craft beer scene. This area has developed a thriving community of microbreweries, producing a variety of innovative brews. These tours provide not only entertainment and education about brewing processes but also opportunities to taste different beers as you visit various spots. To enhance your comfort, organizers typically supply reusable water bottles and snacks like pretzels, ensuring a responsible and enjoyable outing.
2. Pumpkin Displays
Don’t miss Pumpkinferno, an enchanting evening event at the family-oriented Upper Canada Village, designed with strollers in mind. Here, you’ll encounter over 7,000 intricately carved and illuminated pumpkins forming impressive arrangements of wildlife, mythical creatures, storybook characters, and beyond. Set in a historic 1860s site about an hour south of Ottawa’s center, the displays spread across a one-kilometer path, blending art with history. Special nights cater to those with mobility challenges, allowing vehicle access for a fully inclusive experience.
3. Spooky Seasonal Fun
Around Ottawa, several pumpkin patches host a variety of Halloween-themed events, ranging from mildly eerie to fully frightening adventures. For a daytime family outing, Saunders Farm offers activities such as bouncing on trampoline pillows, navigating corn mazes, and enjoying wagon rides that can be tailored to be thrill-free or suspenseful. Meanwhile, Cannamore Orchards features haunted attractions with a focus on weekend family entertainment, where the scares are kept light-hearted. Another highlight is Proulx Farms’ annual PumpkinFest, packed with mazes, slides, animal interactions, and construction-themed play areas, solidifying it as a must-do in October.
4. Orchard Visits
Plan a family getaway this autumn to harvest fresh apples in the scenic countryside surrounding Ottawa. Many orchards go beyond just picking fruit, often including options like guided tours of the grounds, visits to on-site farmer’s markets, or scenic rides on horse-drawn wagons. After filling your baskets, consider taking home some homemade delights, such as fresh apple pies, jams, jellies, or cider, to extend the enjoyment long after your visit.
5. Outdoor Trails
As fall sets in around Ottawa, the cooler air and vibrant foliage turn the local paths and forests into picturesque escapes. Gather the family and venture out on nearby hiking routes, encouraging everyone to observe the subtle and grand beauties of the season. To add some excitement, incorporate activities like a themed scavenger hunt or a playful game of tag among the fallen leaves, fostering memorable moments in nature.
