Outdoor Winter Activities for You to Enjoy in Ottawa

Published on 13 January 2022 in Blog Ottawa Seasonal by Jenn Chamberlain

Last updated on May 6th, 2024 at 11:41 am

January is usually when we start to feel the need to change scenery, especially being cooped up due to COVID-19. But despite the restrictions and limited options, there are still many ways to get outside and enjoy some fresh air and sunshine. Keep your body and mind active with these safe and free winter activities in Ottawa.

Activities to Do in Ottawa Winter

Lace-up the Skates

Skating is one of the best ways to have fun with the family and get in a bit of exercise. If it’s been a while since you laced up, there’s no better time to brush up on your skating skills than now. Here are some of the best spots in Ottawa to enjoy skating:

Rink of Dreams
Rideau Canal Skateway
Lansdown Park Skating Court
Jim Tubman Chevrolet Rink
Countryside Adventures
Ben Franklin Place Skating Rink

Have Fun Tobogganing

If your sled has been collecting dust in the shed, this is an ideal time to take it out of storage and get your adrenaline pumping. Tobogganing a fun activity for both kids and adults, so don’t feel like you’re too far over the hill to enjoy zipping down some hills. Just make sure to double-check rules and restrictions and always apply safety precautions when tobogganing near trees.

Try Fat Biking

Ever heard of Fat biking? It’s exactly as it sounds – biking with fat tires. The extra-wide tires are designed to make it easier and safer to enjoy biking trails during the winter. And with so many options in and around Ottawa, it’s a perfect winter activity to try out when you’re tired of being stuck indoors. It’s also another perfect way to get your body moving and spend time out in nature.

Go for a Winter Walk

Sometimes, bundling up, having a hot beverage, and heading out for a wintery walk can be just as satisfying as any other winter activity. Plus, the city of Ottawa looks beautiful during the winter with a snowy backdrop, especially around Parliament Hill or along trails. Go for a stroll, soak in those soothing vibes from nature and learn to become a tourist in your own city. While you’re out, grab some take-out or coffee from a local hot spot to support small businesses too. It’s a win-win!

Play in the Snow

As we get older, we tend to forget how to let loose, be silly, and play. Whether you have kids or not, spend time with your family or “bubble” friends and have fun playing in the snow. Build a snowman, compete to build the best snow fort, and make silly snow angels to rekindle your inner child. You’ll be surprised at how much fun this can be when you can forget about your age for a little while.

Explore Wildlife at Parc Omega

Parc Omega is only an hour from Ottawa, offering the perfect mini-day trip to get out and discover some northern wildlife. You can stay warm in the comfort of your vehicle and take in the wintery wonderland while scoping the scene like a safari pro. You can find wolves, elk, deer, bison and more here. When restrictions permit, you can also stay overnight at the Wolf Cabin. Don’t let COVID-19 prevent you from enjoying the winter season. Even with restrictions, there are plenty of ways to enjoy the outdoors and nurture your mental and physical wellbeing while having fun. And if moving is on your agenda this winter season, Steve and Jenn are the realtors you can trust to assist you with the entire real estate process, whether you’re looking to relocate or move to Ottawa. Contact us today to get started. By Jenn Chamberlain