Ottawa’s Original Downtown is the Place to Be on Labour Day!
August 29, 2023
Labour Day is almost here, and we’re here to help you make the last long weekend of the summer one to remember!
Whether you are looking for an activity to do with your family or a night out with friends, we’ve created an itinerary to help you have a fun weekend!
ENJOY THE LAST FEW WEEKS OF PATIO SEASON
Don’t wait until the last minute to dine out and enjoy these patios overlooking the best views!
Tavern at the Gallery
Tavern at the Gallery is the perfect atmosphere to impress someone special or catch up with a loved one.
The tavern offers a full-service experience, serving delicious cocktails and open fire pizzas perfect for sharing.
Choose from pizzas topped with pear and brie, fingerling potato and bacon, spicy sausage with a hot honey drizzle, or just pepperoni. Pair it with one of their house cocktails, such as a cold and refreshing frozen margarita or a twist on a Caesar made with kimchi.
📍 380 Sussex Drive
⏰ Monday to Friday: 12:00 PM to 12:00 AM
⏰ Saturday to Sunday: 11:00 AM to 12:00 AM
📞 No Reservations
🍔 Menu
La Terrasse
This patio is a hidden gem in the downtown core and offers incredible views of the Rideau Locks, Ottawa River, Parliament and the best sunsets in the city.
There is no better way to spend a summer afternoon than eating one of their charcuterie and cheese boards (sourced from local Quebec and Ontario producers) and sipping on their infamous showstopper cocktails.
Try the Surf & Turf Caesars made with Worcestershire sauce and tabasco topped with beef sliders and jumbo shrimp. Or, if you are looking for something to share with friends on a hot day, taste one of their refreshing What-a-Melon sangria served inside a watermelon!
📍 1 Rideau Street
⏰ Monday: 11:00 AM to 10:00 PM
⏰ Tuesday to Thursday: 11:00 AM to 12:00 AM
⏰ Friday to Saturday: 11:00 AM to 1:00 AM
⏰ Sunday: 11:00 AM to 11:00 PM
📞 613-241-1414
🍔 Menu
Tavern on the Falls
If you haven’t been to this patio, you must head down to Tavern on the Falls this Labour Day!This patio offers exceptional views of the historic Rideau Falls and serves up gourmet hot dogs with all the toppings you can think of and fruity, refreshing sangria with a choice of red or white.
Every Sunday, Monday, and Wednesday, huddle up to one of the outdoor fire pits and listen to a live music performance from local artists. Perfect date night idea for those cold summer nights!
📍 1 John Street
⏰ Monday to Friday: 12:00 PM to 12:00 AM
⏰ Saturday to Sunday: 11:00 AM to 12:00 AM
📞 No Reservations
🍔 Menu
TAKE IN THE BEAUTIFUL GREEN SPACES IN DOWNTOWN OTTAWA
Enjoy a picnic, or go for a bike ride, in one of these beautiful greenspaces!
Confederation Park
Confederation Park is the perfect park if you’re looking for a quiet space to relax. Although it is located downtown, this park is traditionally less busy than others and is home to a number of foundations and sculptures.
When there isn’t an event taking place, you’ll want to stop and check out the NCC Bistro Café and enjoy Craft Beer, local coffee, or homemade pastries.
Major’s Hill Park
Major’s Hill Park offers arguably the best lookout spots: stunning views of Parliament, the Rideau Locks, and the Ottawa River to the border of Gatineau. You’ll often find people enjoying picnics, throwing around a football, or enjoying some quality time with a book in this park.
FUN ACTIVITIES THAT YOU NEED TO TRY BEFORE SUMMER ENDS
All Aboard the Rideau Canal Boat Cruise!
Embark on a delightful family adventure this Labour Day by setting sail on the Rideau Canal boat cruise! This boat cruise provides a perfect opportunity for families to bond and create lasting memories while taking in the beauty of Ottawa’s picturesque landscapes.
Experience a real-life Night at the Museum!
A trip to the museum is the perfect way to keep your family entertained!
Immerse your family in a world of wonder as you explore the National Gallery of Canada. This gallery offers a captivating experience that combines creativity, inspiration and cultural appreciation and even offers free admission on Thursdays and Family Art Adventures on weekends!
If you’re more of a history buff, the Bytowne Museum is the place to be. Learn about the rich history of Ottawa’s Original Downtown and how our city came to be. From art to history to culture, everyone will find something they love!
End the Day on a Sweet Note
What better way to end a day of adventure than with ice cream? From Baskin Robbins to Laura Secord and Purdy’s there is something for everyone. Even the vegan or dairy free people in your circle!
