Your Guide to the Ultimate August Long Weekend in Downtown Ottawa

Explore Downtown by Bike & Foot

Start your weekend with a relaxed stroll or bike ride along scenic Ottawa River pathways. Prefer to explore with a guide?  Hop on a tour with Escape Bicycle Tours & Rentals to discover hidden gems, historic landmarks, and beautiful downtown views. Don’t forget to stop at a local café for your morning caffeine fix: Little Victories Coffee, Ottawa Bike Café and Morning Owl on Laurier are great downtown spots to grab a delicious coffee and snack before your day begins.

Dive Into History & Culture

History and culture lovers will find plenty to dive into downtown. Visit the Bank of Canada Museum for interactive exhibits that make learning fun for all ages. Or check out the Immersive Parliamentary Experience to explore Canada’s democracy through engaging multimedia and storytelling right near Parliament Hill. For those who enjoy a little mystery and thrill, the Haunted Walk tours bring Ottawa’s spooky stories to life in a perfect mix of history and chills for the whole family. 

Cheer on Athletes 

The IRONMAN Canada-Ottawa race takes place throughout the downtown core on August 3^rd, while energy fills the streets all weekend long. Downtown is the perfect place to take it all in, cheer on world-class athletes and explore the capital city along the way. 

Families can join the fun at the IRONKIDS Ottawa run on Friday, August 1 at 2 p.m. in Confederation Park. Open to kids aged 1 to 17, the event features a Toddler Trot (500M), 1 KM, and 1.5 KM run, making it a great way for young athletes to get involved in race week excitement.

Savor Summer on Downtown Patios

When it’s time to refuel, downtown’s patios are where it’s at. Whether you’re brunching, lunching, or settling in for dinner, you’ll find a mix of cozy corners, lively street-side tables, and rooftop escapes. Try Cocotte Bistro for refined French flavours, The Royal Oak for classic pub fare and people-watching or grab a seat on the bustling patio at Darcy McGee’s, a downtown favourite for hearty meals and a great pint. Wherever you land, downtown patios offer the perfect setting to kick back and soak up summer vibes.

Catch Fireworks After Dinner Out

Looking to light up your night? After dinner and drinks on one of downtown’s lively patios, catch the Les Grands Feux du Casino Lac-Leamy fireworks lighting up the sky. Spectacular show run on Wednesdays and Saturdays in August. Sparks Street offers one of the best skyline views in the city, as do the surrounding streets.   

Before the fireworks begin, don’t miss Live from the Booth, our summer DJ series bringing street energy and music downtown. From 7 to 9 PM, DJ Macmuwsa will be spinning live, setting the tone for a vibrant Saturday night in the core.

Consider a Downtown Staycation

Why not turn your visit into a relaxing staycation? Downtown Ottawa has a variety of comfortable hotels like The Metcalfe Hotel and Restays that are perfect for unwinding after a day of exploring and cheering on the IRONMAN athletes. Staying downtown puts you close to the action and all the city’s best experiences.

Catch a Movie Under the Stars

Looking for a low-key but unforgettable way to kick off your long weekend? Head to Sparks Street for an open-air movie night with Capital Pop-Up Cinema! On Friday, August 1st, bring a chair, grab some snacks from nearby cafés or restaurants, and settle in for a free screening of the cult classic Say Anything. The movie starts at 8:30 PM between Kent and Lyon street, but we recommend arriving early to snag a good spot and enjoy the downtown atmosphere before showtime. It’s a great way to experience downtown differently - under the stars, surrounded by the city.