There are plenty of secret gems you need to discover, from a cake vending machine to a hike to a giant dune. You'll definitely want to add everything below to your bucket list.
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- dangoul | InstagramFind out moreParc OmegaParkOpen9 AM – 5 PM
Why Ottawa Loves It: You can safely sleep next to wolves in a jaw-dropping log cabin. The accommodations sleep between four and six people and offer floor to ceiling windows for up-close views of the pack. Enjoy all the scenery of nature in luxury!
- Find out moreCentral Experimental Farm National Historic SiteFarmOpen9 AM – 5 PM
Why Ottawa Loves It: The giant field of sunflowers at the Central Experimental Farm is sure to put a smile on your face. Grab a friend and your camera for an adorable photoshoot or just enjoy the cheery flowers. They usually bloom in July and August.
- samm.brie | InstagramFind out moreHébergement Les Pieds sur TerreVacation Rental
Why Ottawa Loves It: For an unforgettable weekend escape you can go glamping under the stars in a dome with a transparent roof. Available for rent all year long, these cozy domes sleep between two and six people. Did we mention they each come with a private hot tub?
- levinna | InstagramFind out moreGatineau ParkNational ParkOpen 24 Hours
Why Ottawa Loves It: Just outside the city you can find abandoned ruins next to a waterfall. Equal parts gorgeous and spooky, the Carbide Wilson ruins are what's left of an old mill. It's about a 30-minute hike from the parking lot to get to this serene scene.
- Find out moreThe Morrison QuarryRecreation CenterClosed Now3 – 6 PM
Why Ottawa Loves It: The water at this swimming hole is so bright turquoise it looks like it could be in the Caribbean. Top it off with a waterslide, sandy beach and floating sun deck and you've got all the makings of a resort getaway less than 30 minutes from the city. The best part? It's only $10 for the whole day. Just be sure to check if they're open before heading out.
- escape_manor | InstagramFind out moreEscape ManorEscape RoomPermanently Closed
Why Ottawa Loves It: If you can win Escape Manor's challenging escape room, you could get hired by a Canadian spy agency. A government agency even provided the props so it's super realistic. But before you quit your day job, you should know that only one person has solved the final puzzle so far. Maybe you'll be next?
- rabbitholeott | InstagramFind out moreRabbit HoleCocktail BarClosed Now11:30 – 12 AM
Why Ottawa Loves It: Most locals don't realize there is a hidden speakeasy behind a secret door in the Rabbit Hole. The basement is over 120 years old and boasts charming vintage decor and cozy lighting. There's no menu — the bartender will whip you up your very own bespoke cocktail.
- Find out morePinhey Forest TrailsTrailhead
Why Ottawa Loves It: The last thing you expect to find is a desert-like setting in the middle of the city. To get there, you'll follow the 3.2-kilometre path through a red maple forest and over picturesque boardwalks. Pack a picnic and enjoy all the scenery without all the crowds.
- stephaniewhitetravels | InstagramFind out moreCarlingwood Shopping CentreShopping CenterOpening Soon10 AM – 8 PM
Why Ottawa Loves It: With the push of a button you can get a seven-layer cake made by a celebrity chef, with every colour of the rainbow. If you want something a bit more classic, there are also flavours like carrot, red velvet and chocolate fudge. The dessert ATM is restocked daily to guarantee freshness.
