DREAMSCAPES WINTER/SPRING 2024
54
C I T Y S P O T L I G H T
Chasing Seasons IN
OTTAWA
SHIFT GEARS FOR A CAPITAL CITY
BREAK. IT'S A CLASSIC GETAWAY.
A
s the season transitions, Ottawa, our enchanting
National Capital, seamlessly bridges the gap between
winter's icy embrace and spring's vibrant renewal. Locals
love to get outdoors and embrace the cold; after all, in winter,
the city is one of the coldest capitals in the world and resi-
dents have found endless ways to enjoy it. That explains why
it hosts the annual Winterlude (February 2
nd
–19
th
, 2024), a
free family-friendly festival dedicated to all things icy.
You can snowshoe, skate on the frozen Rideau Canal, and
warm up with hot cocoa at cosy cafés around town. Or as
spring blooms, watch how Ottawa emerges from the quiet
beauty of winter ready to enjoy a season of bike rides, out-
door markets and the world-famous Canadian Tulip Festival.
Come for a romantic city break or bring the whole crew
for a family vacation in Ottawa. No matter the weather or
season you'll find activities aplenty.
SKATE THE CANAL
The world's largest naturally frozen skating rink comes to
life each winter in the capital. The Rideau Canal Skateway
stretches for 7.8 kilometres and is a UNESCO World Heritage
Site. Typically open from January to early March (weather-
dependent), huts line the canal where you can change into
your skates. Prepare to glide along the ice or stick to
strolling along the pathways and enjoy the frozen canal
views from above.
If you're feeling the cold, head inside for family fun at
Funhaven, where you'll find amusements, bumper cars and
Ottawa's only rollercoaster! Older kids will enjoy a challenge
at Escape Manor on Elgin, where you can choose from a
BY FIONA TAPP
PHOTOS:
OTTAWA
TOURISM
|
CANADIAN
MUSEUM
OF
NATURE/MARTIN
LIPMAN
|
OTTAWA
TOURISM/TAKU
KUMABE
