Ottawa in August

August is a perfect time to visit Ottawa, Canada's capital since 1857.  The weather is warm with temperatures ranging from lows of 60's to highs of mid-70's with very little precipitation. The city is full of charm, beautiful architecture, has a bustling downtown core and a variety of interesting neighborhoods.  An exciting city with a small-town charm where one feels comfortable walking and taking in the sights. And there is much to do and see.

CYCLE YOUR WAY THROUGH OTTAWA  ALONG THE RIDEAU CANAL

Ottawa is a great, safe place to cycle where you will see beautiful, lush greenery and city scenery, all close by.  Two favorite places to cycle are along the Rideau Canal and the Ottawa River.  A visit to the historic Rideau Canal is a MUST!  The Rideau Canal was established in 1832 and is the oldest, continuously operated canal system in North America!   It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is a major attraction that weaves its way gracefully through Ottawa's charming downtown core.  Ride your bike along its banks, over its waters and on its Skateway.

For families who want a gentle ride for all ages and to see lovely scenery, cycling along the Rideau Canal is the easiest, fairly flat route that is full of kid-friendly sights, including a UNESCO WORLD HERITAGE WATERWAY,  Parliament Hill and a castle-like hotel.  As well, the trail offers easy access to parks, neighborhoods, restaurants and other attractions.  Pathways on both sides of Rideau Canal are lined with grassy parklands where you can stop for a rest, take photos, and have a picnic.

Several suggestions for a pleasant outing is a ride to Lansdowne which is an urban sports and entertainment destination where one can watch football, soccer, hockey, and basketball. And then one can grab some food at the Local Public Eatery and South St. Burger.  Also close by are historic structures with recurring and special events such as the Ottawa's Farmer's Market which is held outside the Aberdeen Pavilion on Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays from May to October.  There are also parklands, performance spaces and basketball courts.  So-o-o much to do...one might have to extend their holiday!

If you didn't travel with your bike, you can RENT A BIKE on the east side of the Canal, under the Plaza Bridge and also ask reception at the Best Western Plus Ottawa City Centre for other places close by.

OTTAWA'S EVENING COMES ALIVE WITH A SPECTACULAR FIREWORKS DISPLAY FROM AUG. 2 TO THE 19TH.

Wednesday and Saturday evenings during the first 3 weeks of August will be lit up for 4 hours of incredible entertainment at the Canadian Museum of History in Gatineau, Quebec on 100 Laurier Street.  The fireworks are launched from a platform in the majestic Ottawa River, directly below the museum giving viewers spectacular sights of exploding, shimmering waterfalls and blooms of color high above the Ottawa River.  All of this will be set to thrilling musical scores!

Tickets are only available online at the Les Grands Feux du Casino Lac-Leamy site where one can reserve seats, (reduced mobility seats are also available) and one can book a gourmet evening picnic in a box!  Enjoy your evening of 4 hours of visual entertainment, sitting down after a busy day and munching on some goodies.  What a holiday!

For a place to stay during your visit to vibrant Ottawa, the Best Western Plus Ottawa City Centre is a great stay with an unbeatable location in the heart of downtown Ottawa.  The lodging combines family-friendly amenities and a cozy atmosphere.