Lifestyle in Ottawa

Expats living in Ottawa will have their pick of leisure pursuits. Thanks to the abundance of galleries, music festivals and dynamic exhibitions in Ottawa, expats can immerse themselves in the city's arts and culture. The locals also enjoy an active lifestyle throughout the year.

Whether expats prefer shopping, eating out or partying the night away, Ottawa has it all.

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Shopping in Ottawa

From Ottawa’s large malls and outlet centres to the expensive designer stores and quirky boutiques, the city has myriad shopping options.

Most of these lie in the downtown area. Shoppers who want everything under one roof can head to the CF Rideau Centre. Those looking to find unique pieces or special gifts can visit the boutiques, craft stores and stalls at ByWard Market or the historic Sparks Street.

Expats looking for a bargain can travel slightly out of town to peruse one of the city's outlet malls, including the Ottawa Train Yards or the Carlingwood Shopping Centre. Other popular shopping malls include the Bayshore Shopping Centre and Place d’Orleans and St Laurent Shopping Centre in east Ottawa.

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Nightlife and entertainment in Ottawa

Locals often say that Ottawa wakes up when the sun goes down. Most of the city’s nightlife centres around the ByWard Market district – by day, this area is home to the local farmers, artisans and boutique shops – by night, it transforms as revellers descend upon the district’s many bars and clubs for fun and merriment.

Music lovers will have the opportunity to catch live performances from up-and-coming artists at one of Ottawa's famous music lounges. There are also many opportunities to catch the latest shows and performances at one of the city's theatres, such as the National Arts Centre or Theatre du Casino.

Risk-takers looking to win big should look no further than Casino du Lac-Leamy in Gatineau. With over 1,800 slot machines, poker tables and roulette wheels, expats will have plenty to keep them entertained.

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Eating out in Ottawa

Ottawa has a thriving culinary scene, with many top international chefs opening restaurants in the city. Ottawa’s restaurant owners have partnered with local food producers to bring farm-to-table dining to the city through initiatives such as Savour Ottawa.

Whether gourmands enjoy French, Italian, Chinese, Indian, Malaysian, Ethiopian or Fusion cuisine, Ottawa has a plethora of restaurants and cafes to entice every palate and budget under the sun.  

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Outdoor activities in Ottawa

The ‘emerald necklace’, a green belt of preserved federally-owned parks, forests and wetlands, is the jewel in Ottawa’s crown. Fitness enthusiasts will enjoy using one of Ottawa’s many green spaces to maintain a healthy lifestyle.

The region has hundreds of kilometres of cross-country ski trails as well as a system of parkways along Ottawa's scenic rivers and canals, which are great for cycling, rollerblading and jogging.

Just a short journey from the city centre are some of Ontario’s best beaches, which are a firm favourite among residents during the summer months. For the avid golfer, Ottawa has the most accessible golf courses in Canada. In the winter, Ottawa’s residents fully immerse themselves in the winter-sports scene by ice skating, taking to the slopes or simply being a spectator at the iconic ice hockey games.

Finally, adventurists in Ottawa will have the perfect arena for skydiving, bungee jumping, windsurfing, white-water rafting, scuba diving and kayaking.

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See and do in Ottawa

As Canada's capital, Ottawa is a city rich in culture and history. There is also plenty to see and do in Ottawa, no matter the weather. Here is a list of the main attractions in Ottawa.

Gatineau Park

Gatineau Park, in the centre of Ottawa, is one of the city’s most cherished natural wonders and is perfect for a family day out. The park has many well-maintained scenic trails and more than 50 species of trees, birds and mammals.

Little Ray’s Nature Centre

Little Ray’s Nature Centre is the largest animal rescue centre in Canada. Children can learn from the live shows and exhibits or interact with the diverse collection of reptiles.

National Gallery of Canada

Dating back to 1880, the National Gallery of Canada holds an excellent collection of European and Canadian paintings, prints, sculptures and photography for art lovers to observe and study.

Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica

The architectural marvel, Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica, is recognisable by its ornate twin spires. Architecture buffs will enjoy their time in this gothic-style cathedral near Parliament Hill and ByWard Market. 

Rideau Hall and Canal Skateway

Rideau Hall has been the home of every Governor General since 1867. This elegant 19th-century mansion is open to the public for tours. The UNESCO World Heritage Site, Rideau Canal, is also home to Rideau Canal Skateway, the world’s largest ice rink.

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What's on in Ottawa 

Whether expats prefer music concerts, festivals or parades, there are plenty of exciting annual events in Ottawa to keep them busy. Below is a list of the main events on Ottawa's annual calendar.

Winterlude/Bal de Neige (February)

Winterlude is a fun-filled festival that takes place over three weekends in February and celebrates all the joys of winter in Ottawa. Expats can skate on the Rideau Canal Skateway, take in the art pieces at the ice sculpture competitions, or let their inner child out on North America’s biggest snow playground.

Ottawa International Children’s Festival (May/June)

For more than 20 years, the Ottawa International Children’s Festival has staged award-winning performances from young international artists, proving to be a fantastic day out for expat families.

Ottawa Bluesfest (July)

An award-winning music extravaganza, Ottawa Bluesfest is the biggest blues event in Canada. The festival takes place in the heart of Ottawa at LeBreton Flats Parkland and involves hundreds of world-class performances.

Ottawa Pride Festival (August)

Ottawa’s colourful Pride Festival celebrates the LGBTQIA+ community with events over 10 days. The events include a Rainbow Party, Health and Fitness Day and the famous Capital Pride Parade.

Ottawa International Animation Festival (September)

The Ottawa International Animation Festival is the largest of its kind in North America and attracts thousands of film buffs, art lovers and cartoon fans from around the world.