6 Unmissable Experiences to Have in Ottawa This Summer

Ottawa shines in the summertime. Ottawa in the summertime is simply splendid. From the national fervour of July 1st to the peaceful shores of the Ottawa River, you can find adventure everywhere – out in the open, on the trail, along the water or to the beat of music festivals.

As temperatures rise,
Ottawans
swaps their winter boots for sandals. Spring air refreshes the mind and senses, Ottawa’s streets come alive and its parks transform to open-air living rooms. The best way to discover Ottawa? Follow a sensory and surprising itinerary full of Indigenous heritage, outdoor concerts and the striking beauty of nature.

Travelling to Canada? These article should interest you:

• 7 little-known Canadian cities worth the detour
• This little-known Canadian town nestled in a magnificent bay is the oldest city in the country—you’ll feel like you’re in Europe
• This desert in Canada is the smallest in the world—and it’s surrounded by snow-capped mountains and stunning lakes

Celebrate Indigenous culture at Mādahòkì Farm

More than an event, the Summer Solstice Indigenous Festival at Mādahòkì Farm celebrates the passing down of tradition. On June 21 and 22, the pow-wow brings together drumming, traditional dance, storytelling, and Indigenous knowledge in a welcoming atmosphere.

It’s a chance to taste Indigenous food, discover the rare Ojibwe horses and, most importantly, forge ties to community and meet new people. It’s a rare moment, both festive and profound, to anchor your journey in a vibrant memory.

Experiencing Canada Day in the heart of the capital

On July 1, Ottawa comes alive: the whole city explodes with red and white everywhere. On Parliament Hill, flags fly, crowds flock and bands play at full blast.

The food trucks roll in, all stocked up with elevated poutines and local delicacies, while fireworks light up the darkness of night. It’s a contagious spirit that reminds us that this is, above all, the people’s capital.

Dancing at the Bluesfest

With an extensive lineup by the riverside, Ottawa Bluesfest combines international headliners and Canadian talent in a friendly, inviting atmosphere.

From July 10-25, 2025, rock, electro, hip-hop, country and blues will meet and mingle with the summer breeze. The grass becomes a dance floor, the street food stands line up with tacos, sushi and vegetarian burgers. It’s a free, happy and infectious energy.

Hiking in Gatineau Park and diving in the lake

Just a few minutes from downtown Ottawa, Gatineau Park’s forests, cliffs and lakes are perfect spots to unwind. The Pink Lake trail and the Champlain Lookout offer breathtaking panoramas.

You can swim in the crystal-clear waters of Lac Philippe, camp in the shade of pine trees, and go rock-climbing in the Gatineau hills… all in the same day! A breath of adventure combined with a refreshing break on the outskirts of the city.

Exploring Ottawa’s underground at the Diefenbunker

A relic of the Cold War, this underground bunker takes you into a secret and fascinating world.

Built to house the Canadian government in the event of a nuclear attack, today it reveals rooms frozen in time, labyrinthine galleries and a striking atmosphere. Discover a unique immersion in a little-known part of Canada’s history.

Rafting the Ottawa River

In Ottawa, you can cross the capital by car, by bike, on foot… or by floating down a river! You can embark on a unique river expedition courtesy of Ottawa City Rafting, combining nature, urban views and the serenity of water. The current gently carries you from Britannia Beach to the heart of the city, with a few white-water sections to spice up the journey.

Along the way, there are swimming stops, stories told onshore, a frothy passage under the bridge and a panoramic view of Parliament Hill. A rare moment—reflective, refreshing, and unmistakably Ottawa.

www.ottawatourism.ca/en