(Wilderness Tours)
The concept of ripping past rapids on a whitewater raft to arrive at a city’s downtown core — crazy, right?
Not crazy in Ottawa, Canada.
The Ottawa region is surrounded by three epic white-water rivers (easily accessed from Ottawa on day-trips): the Rocher Fendu section of the Ottawa River near Beachburg, Ontario; the Gatineau River which runs near Maniwaki, Quebec; and the Rivière Rouge which runs near Mont Tremblant, Quebec.
There are even tours that take rafters from the rapids surrounding the city right up to the banks of the Ottawa River, which winds through the capital.
Besides being a hot spot for adrenaline junkies, Canada’s capital, Ottawa, is a hub for culture, history, the arts (home to seven national museums), a thriving food scene, Canada-cool bilingualism, and of course — the great outdoors.
Photo by OWL Rafting
White-water raft tours can be approached a few ways, depending on your skill and interest. Wilderness Tour's Ottawa City Rafting adventure is a great way to get out on the river and see the city from a fresh perspective. This guided excursion starts with a 10-minute drive from downtown to Britannia Beach and takes three and a half hours, during which rafters can go body surfing and cliff jumping. The adventure includes views of some of Ottawa’s iconic points of interest like the Supreme Court of Canada and the Parliament Buildings, home of Canada’s national government.
Photo by Explore David Jackson
Ever howled at the full moon from the rapids? HorizonX guides groups at night through moonlit rafting on Ottawa River in up to Class 2 rapids. This company’s fleet of Maravia rafts are considered the Ferraris of rafting - fast, but stable and very safe. Check this trip off your once-in-a-lifetime list; there’s something pretty magical about this experience under the stars.
Looking to see what other options are available when it comes to whitewater rafting tours in and around Ottawa? Check out OWL Rafting, Rafting Momentum, RiverRun Rafting and Wilderness Resort, and Wilderness Tours.
Photo by Canadian Museum of History
After a day of adventure on the water, it’s time to explore Canada’s capital, up close and personal. Get a sense of place and a glimpse into Canadian history at the museums and galleries, especially those with a focus on the Indigenous Peoples of Canada. The Canadian Museum of History sits on the bank of the Ottawa River, making it a picturesque and educational excursion, and pairs nicely with a trip to the National Gallery of Canada, which houses the re-envisioned and permanent Canadian and Indigenous Galleries.
Walk along the Rideau Canal, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that starts at the Ottawa River and winds through downtown. Soak up some culture by taking in a performance at the National Arts Centre, where upcoming events include Broadway shows, world-class theatre and dance, as well as performances by local Canadian artists.
Finish the evening with a visit to the historic ByWard Market neighborhood, where you’re bound to catch some live music. We recommend making your way to Clarendon Courtyard, a secluded cobblestone square, and grabbing a table on the patio of any of the five restaurants that call it home.
Photo by Destination Canada
Depending on the time of year you visit, the festival options are plentiful, with everything from music festivals, to winter celebrations, to hot air balloon festivals. And since no out-of-town getaway is complete without some memorable meals, check out the culinary scene in some of Ottawa’s hottest neighborhoods, such as The Glebe and Wellington West.
Tour along The Glebe’s main drag, Bank Street, where you’ll find casual dining spots like The Pomeroy House and Feleena’s. Wellington West hosts local favorites including Agave Grill, Ottawa’s premier southwestern restaurant, and Holland’s Cake and Shake, where milkshakes are stacked high with brownies, cakes, and any kind of treat imaginable.
If you’re looking for more ideas for what to see in Canada’s capital city, just ask around. Locals don’t hold back when it comes to sharing the good stuff. Friendly. It’s a Canadian thing.
This post is a sponsored collaboration between Destination Canada and Gothamist staff.
