ABOUT
Get to know me!
I’m Nina
Hi there! I’m the founder of Ottawa Things to Do and a local Ottawan.
My mission is simple: To show that Ottawa isn’t boring – there’s plenty of things to do, see, eat and explore!
After visiting Ottawa every year as a kid, and eventually coming out for a month to visit a friend, I finally bit the bullet and moved from Toronto to Ottawa in 2021.
I’ve spent years finding the best activities and events around the city to prove that this isn’t the city fun forgot!
Follow Me:
I’m all about travel for fun, adventure, yummy food, and culture. So that’s our priority here at OTTD. We’ll check out some touristy areas that are actually worth your time – like the Rideau Canal – and some hidden gems you’ve probably never heard of – like Kanata Noodle House.
My Top Picks
Ottawa Activities
Skate the world’s longest outdoor skating rink in Ottawa (usually open in February). I skate the 7.8km every winter – often to pick up my groceries!
The world’s largest tulip festival spans Ottawa every year. You’ll find me at Dow’s Lake getting hayfever and stunning photos.
Gatineau is home to Gatineau Park – which has my favourite hiking – and the Gatineau Beer Fest – my favourite bevvy (gluten free and non alcoholic options).
The most adrenaline inducing experience you can have in Ottawa, paddling up the rapids of the Ottawa River. Prepare to get drenched!
My Story
Exploring Ottawa
Living in Ottawa
I grew up in Toronto, but visited my aunt every year as a kid. We’d go to the Experimental Farm or race across the Rideau Canal. When I moved back to Canada after studying in the UK, I visited Ottawa for a month and signed a lease before the 4 weeks were up! The city is more peaceful and cost effective than Toronto, but it also has so many amazing things to do. If you’re an outdoor lover like me, you’ll be spoiled for choice. 6 months after moving, I got a puppy who became my adventure buddy.
Ottawa Tulip Festival 2022
How “Ottawa Things to Do” Started
Canadians often joke that Ottawa is “the city that fun forgot” or “the most boring city in Canada”. I’ve lived across the country and even drove across it for a few months in 2023 – and I can safely say Ottawa is not the most boring city.
I wanted to share the fun events I was going to with someone other than my dog, to help others experience the best of Ottawa beyond Parliament Hill.
My Mission
My Experience with Travel
I’ve always travelled. I’ve lived in Canada, Europe, New Zealand, and shortly in Africa and Asia, since 2011. I caught the bug young and have been on the move constantly until I made my way to Ottawa where I finally started to feel like I was “home”.
I’ve been to over 30 countries on holidays, too.
My favourite travel style is solo (although dogs are allowed, of course). On this blog, most of my adventures are solo, unless I could convince my roommate or some visiting family members to tag along.
What to Expect
What will you find here?
Activities
The very best things to do in the city of Ottawa for all visitors.
Hotels
Best hotels close to the action without breaking the bank.
Tours
The guided tours that are actually worth your time and money.
Day Trips
Nearby adventures outside of Ottawa that you won’t want to miss.