Your Guide to Fall in the Core: Every Corner Brings Something Unexpected
- Community
- See & Do
- Food & Drink
September 12, 2025 / 1 minute read
The first day of fall (Autumn Equinox) has arrived, and downtown Ottawa is the perfect place to experience the change of seasons. From colourful bike tours to haunted walks, cozy cafes to fine dining, every corner of the core offers something new to discover. Whether enjoying a coffee break, happy hour, a night out, or a crisp stroll through the streets, you will fall for downtown.
Sip Seasonal Flavours
Fall menus have landed, and there’s no shortage of cozy cafés to warm up on a crisp day:
Explore Colours by Bike
Looking for the best view of the changing leaves in the heart of the city? Book a seasonal bike tour with Escape Bike Tours and experience Ottawa’s fall colours like never before. Starting downtown, it’s an unforgettable way to soak in the season.
Get Into the Spooky Spirit
Nothing says fall like a little fright! The Haunted Walk is the ultimate way to explore Ottawa’s spooky side. Guided nighttime tours bring chilling stories and haunted history to life, all while walking through our historic downtown streets.
Cozy Pints & Comfort Dining
Fall is all about comfort food and seasonal ingredients. Grab a pint in one of our welcoming pubs:
Looking for a more elevated dining experience? Treat yourself to a meal featuring the best of the season at Cocotte Bistro, Rabbit Hole and Riviera. And don’t forget to soak in the fresh air on a patio while you still can. Your last chance to enjoy outdoor dining before winter arrives.
Fresh Looks for Fall
Crisp season, crisp look! Treat yourself to a fresh cut at Society Salon or update your wardrobe with elevated work looks from Suitablee. It’s the perfect way to step into fall feeling sharp and ready for that next big gathering or meeting.
Embrace the Autumn Air
Sometimes the simplest pleasures are the best. Take a stroll through the neighbourhood, soak in the colours, and enjoy the beauty of downtown in a new season. Or, settle into one of the Muskoka chairs on Sparks Street and soak up the warm autumn sun. It’s the perfect pause in your day!
Whether you’re here for coffee, culture, or colourful adventures, there’s always something unexpected to discover here in the core.
