Things to do in Ottawa this Spring

After what seemed like a never-ending winter, we're ecstatic to welcome back some warmth and sunshine to the nation's capital! Spring is a beautiful time of year in Ottawa, and the perfect time to get out of your apartment (where you may or may not have been hibernating for the past few months) and go enjoy the fresh air. If you’re short on ideas for things to do this spring in the Ottawa region, here are a few events and activities to watch for:     

1. Spring PoutineFest on Sparks Street – April 30 - May 3, 2015

Who doesn’t love poutine? Canadians love the stuff so much we’ve dedicated festivals to it! Located in the heart of downtown Ottawa, Sparks Street is a hub of activity and features many restaurants, specialty shops and galleries. Sparks Street is home to the ever-delicious PoutineFest, which showcases different poutine vendors from all across the country. With so many different variations to choose from, you’ll have a hard time deciding on just one. Whatever you’ve got a hankering for, whether it be pulled pork, jalapenos, veggies or even scrambled eggs and bacon, you can bet you’ll find a poutine that’s right for you!

2. Canadian Tulip Festival – May 8-18, 2015

Ottawa's Tulip Festival is the largest tulip festival in the world and a beauty to experience first-hand. There are vibrant gardens planted all over the National Capital Region, the most popular being located at Commissioners Park in the Dow's Lake region of Ottawa. About 300,000 tulips bloom in Commissioners Park and over 1 million tulip bulbs blossom across all festival locations.

If you can’t make it out to Commissioners Park, there are six other garden locations spread out all over Ottawa and Gatineau. Don’t miss out on the spectacular colours of the season showcased at the Canadian Tulip Festival! No matter where your Ottawa apartment is located, there's bound to be a garden nearby.

View our spacious downtown apartments for rent in Ottawa here. 

3. Ottawa Race Weekend – May 23 and 24, 2015

Whether you’re an avid runner or just looking for a great activity to take part in with your friends, Ottawa Race Weekend is an experience like no other. With over 47,500 participants last year, the event is consistently growing in popularity. Taking part in the race is a great way to set athletic goals and get active! There’s still time to register here.   

4. Hiking and Biking in Gatineau Park

Spring is here, let the hiking begin! With over 165 kilometres of hiking trails, Gatineau Park is ideal for those who want to get outdoors and be active, but don’t want to travel too far out of town. Just a stone’s throw from downtown Ottawa, Gatineau Park offers many winding foot and mountain bike trails that allow you to enjoy the relaxing virtues of the lakes and surrounding forests. Visit the famed Mackenzie King Estate, the country home of former Prime Minister Mackenzie King, or take in the scenic Pink Lake and behold its unique ecological history. Be sure to get out and experience the many attractions Gatineau Park has to offer this spring. Check out their website for information on trails, activities and events in Gatineau Park.

Get out of your apartment this Spring to go enjoy the best of what our city has to offer! From peaceful jogs along the Rideau Canal to relaxing evenings in the ByWard Market, you'll be glad you did.