Ottawa has something to offer everyone and holds a special place in our hearts. It blends
big-city energy with small-town charm and is fun for all ages. Here are 10 reasons why we
love living in Ottawa.
It has the best food
From ByWard Market's stalls overflowing with fresh produce and international treats to Little
Italy's cozy cafes and upscale restaurants, Ottawa is a paradise for foodies and cooks. We
have to give special mention to Ottawa's classic BeaverTails – a delicious deep-fried pastry
perfect for any season.
It has a rich history you can feel
Ottawa is home to spectacular museums including the Canadian War Museum, the
Canadian Museum of Nature, and the National Gallery of Canada -- just to name a few! It's
also full of historic sites and buildings, so it's easy to immerse yourself in the past here.
Wander through Parliament Hill, the heart of Canadian politics, and take in the grandeur of
iconic buildings like the Centre Block.
It's a nature lover's dream
Ottawa boasts an extensive network of park trails, perfect for escaping the grind of the city’s
urban streets. Gatineau Park, just across the Ottawa River, offers stunning natural beauty
with hiking trails, bike paths, and serene beaches. In the winter, the park transforms into a
winter wonderland, ideal for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. The Rideau Canal, a
UNESCO World Heritage Site, is another gem. You can lace up and skate along the frozen
canal during winter or rent a kayak in the summer for a scenic journey.
It's full of festivals
Ottawa is home to countless vibrant festivals and events. Winterlude, the world's largest
winter festival, transforms the city into a winter wonderland with ice sculptures, skating rinks,
and live performances. Bluesfest attracts incredible music acts. The Canadian Tulip Festival
is simply breathtaking. No matter the season, there's always a festival to celebrate in
Ottawa.
It has amazing art
Ottawa is home to numerous theaters, galleries, and performance venues. Catch a play at
the National Arts Centre, or a live performance from the Canadian Opera Company. Explore
the ByWard Market's stalls, studios and boutiques to discover local artisans and their unique
creations.
It's a perfect place for sports fans
Like football? Cheer on the Ottawa Senators NHL team or the Ottawa Redblacks CFL team.
Lansdowne Park is a wonderful multi-purpose stadium in the heart of the city to enjoy sports
events.
It's pretty friendly
Ottawa is known as a friendly city with a welcoming atmosphere. People are quick with a
smile and happy to lend a helping hand. The city fosters a strong sense of community, with
numerous events and activities that bring residents together.
It's family friendly
There are countless activities and attractions for families to enjoy in Ottawa. Spend a day
exploring the Museum of Science and Technology, or take a ride in a flight simulator at the
Canadian War Museum's LeBreton Gallery. During the summer, visit Ottawa’s many splash
pads or outdoor pools.
It's pretty green
Ottawa is a city that prioritizes sustainability and is home to many green spaces. If you're car
free, you'll love Ottawa's many recreational paths and bike paths which weave throughout
the city. Many Ottawa neighbourhoods have community gardens where residents grow their
own produce.
It's a big city with a great location
Ottawa's central location makes it an ideal base for exploring Eastern Canada. It's easy to
enjoy a day trip to Montreal or head north to explore Algonquin Provincial Park. Its proximity
to the US border also allows for easy weekend getaways.
Ottawa is a city that offers something for everyone. These are just 10 of the many many
reasons we love living here.
Ready to start a new chapter of your life in Ottawa? Elevated rental living is within
reach at Story of Rideau & Chapel.
