10 Secret Spots In Ottawa Totally Worth Checking Out
For the nation’s capital, Ottawa has some amazingly beautiful spots to spend your time at. However, most of these spots are kept secret by locals or just not very publicized. We’ve put together a list of 10 secret spots in Ottawa totally worth checking out next time you’re looking for an adventure.
1. Blackbridge
Blackbridge is the name locals have given the old railway bridge that used to cross the Ottawa River, connecting Ontario and Quebec. This bridge has long been abandoned and fenced-in but this hasn’t stopped locals from using this beautiful location to walk their dogs, start bonfires and enjoy a nice cool beer in the summer. The bridge is around a mile of old railway track that expands over the open water and provides one of the coolest spots to hang out on. If you’re looking for a great spot to watch a romantic sunset, Balckbrige is definitely your thing.
2. Luskville Falls
Though this location is a little outside of the Ottawa limits, it is definitely worth the trip. Located in Luskville, Quebec, these falls are home to a spectacular hike and view from the top of this mountain. Part of the Gatineau park territory, many people miss out on this spectacular climb. If visiting in the late summer, you may even be lucky enough to find wild blueberries at the top of the mountain.
3. The Arboretum
The Arboretum is definitely a hidden gem just outside of the city’s center. Located beside the experimental farm and cornering one side of Dow’s Lake, this lush greenery is the perfect place to picnic in the summer and toboggan in the winter. With dozens of wooden bridges, open fields and ponds always open to the public no matter what season, this is a must see if you have never been.
4. Mer Bleau Bog Conservation Area
The Mer Bleu Bog is now a conservation area located on Ridge Road, past Hunt Club and Walkely and is one of the most spectacular views in Ottawa. With a 1.2 kilometre boardwalk that covers the whole bog, the scenery changes depending on the season but is always just as beautiful. The perfect mixture of natural scenery and water landscape this bog is a must see.
5. Tavern on the Falls
Tavern on the Falls is Ottawa’s newest Terrace and Tavern series and opened summer 2018. However, many people don’t know about this incredible tavern location. Overlooking the Ottawa River and Rideau River Falls, this tavern is a great spot for late summer hangout or first date. Great drinks and gourmet hot dogs, this tavern is a very underrated, low-key summer location.
6. Andaz Ottawa
Andaz is a chic hotel in the heart of the Byward Market. Most people don’t know that the rooftop doubles as a chic night club and bar open to both customers and the public. This rooftop is arguably one of the best views of Ottawa and is complete with private booths and gas fireplaces to keep warm in the colder months.
7. Princess Louise Falls
The Princess Louise Falls located in Orleans is probably one of the most underrated places in Ottawa. Thee falls are great to visit with friends and family. You can climb them, swim in them and just sun bathe until your heart desires.
8. Patterson’s Creek
Patterson’s Creek is one of the most beautiful parks in Ottawa. Located in the glebe, between Bank Street and Queen Elizabeth Drive, this creek is an outsource connected to the Ottawa Canal. Full of lush greenery, open fields and beautiful arch bridges, this park is definitely worth checking out next time you’re looking for someplace to picnic and just chill with friends.
9. The Nepean Point Lookout
The Alexandria Bridge Lookout is a hilltop located just behind the National Art Gallery and is one of the best spots to watch the sunset in Ottawa. Perched up high over the city, you have a panor360-degree view of the Ottawa River, Parliament, Byward Marketeverythingthing in between.
10. The Rockliffe Pond
The Rockliffe Pond, located in the heart of the Rockliffe Park neighbourhood is a beautiful, freshwater pond that is open to the public during certain hours of the day. Surrounded by a lush tree line, this pond s definitely worth checking out in the summer months.
