photo : neil robertson
SPRing must-Do ’ s
Ottawans welcome spring with wide-opens arms ( and patios )! The capital literally blooms with festivals , tours , biking , and more . If that doesn ’ t make you attached to the city , our maple syrup will !
Sugar Rush Spring is a very special season in Canada — maple syrup season — and Ottawa is lucky to be so close to many maple syrup producers in both Quebec and Ontario . For example , just outside the city you ’ ll find Fulton ’ s Pancake House & Sugar Bush where guests can enjoy a guided tour , horse-drawn ride , and even a maple meal !
Branch Out Maple trees are a national treasure , but you can branch out and discover thousands of species of trees from around the world at The Arboretum — one of the first places in the city to be awash with spring colours . Wander amongst its perfumed pink-and-white crabapple tree blossoms to the ridge in the centre of the park for a great view of the Rideau Canal and the city . Keep your eyes peeled for one of several marked paths and explore less tamed beauty in the Butterfly Meadow or Fletcher Wildlife Garden . Adjoining this urban oasis is the Central Experimental Farm , which is anchored by the Canada Agriculture and Food Museum — where horses , sheep , pigs , and other livestock are enjoyed by a regular flow of city-dwellers seeking to reconnect with nature . For indoor natural wonders , head back downtown to the Canadian Museum of Nature .
Biking in Bloom Ottawa ’ s festivals really begin to bloom in May with the Canadian Tulip Festival , where tulips are just the beginning ! This celebration goes back to the Second World War when Ottawa provided refuge for Princess Juliana of the Netherlands , and to thank us , she sent 100,000 bulbs in gratitude ! From these roots has grown a huge festival , including live music performances , children ’ s activities , fireworks and more in locations like Lansdowne and Commissioners Park . Take in the tulips by foot , or rent a bike and enjoy the path between festival sites along the Rideau Canal — just don ’ t forget to stop and smell the flowers !
The Capital Pathway Network doesn ’ t stop there ! Rent a bike from RentABike , and
city tOuRS canadian muSeum OF natuRe
explore more of this 600-km network . Take a tour with Escape Bicycle Tours or Ottawa Cycling Tours . Hop off the bike entirely and hop on Grey Line Ottawa ’ s “ Hop-on , Hop-off ” city tours aboard a double-decker bus . These tours let you discover the city at your own pace , with 1 to 3 day passes , it ’ s basically a tour guide and chauffeur when you want them !
Pumped For Patios For locals , spring equals patio season ( finally )! No matter your transportation , take a break on a patio in the ByWard Market district . For something secluded and charming , the cobblestoned Clarendon Court ( at the corner of George and Sussex ) has four patios to choose from or try Heart & Crown for suds and sun . Patios also line the pedestrian portion of William Street . Choose from The Highlander Pub for great people watching ; The Grand for a romantic meal ; and Pourhouse for a bird ’ s-eye view of the bustle . photo : canadian museum of nature - martin lipman canadian tuliP FeStival www . ottawatourism . ca Destination Planner ’ s Guide 2017 17