Ottawa Summer Date Ideas

When CTV Ottawa Morning Live tasked us with coming up with a few Summer date ideas to enjoy in the capital, we realized that the 613 is a pretty happening place for romancers. Be it our beautiful scenery, plethora of newly emerging restaurants, constant stream of festivals or proximity to day trip destinations, if you’re looking to spice things up with a new or old partner, you’re in the right place. Below, you’ll find our top five date ideas for a summer stroll in Ottawa. Love on, lovebirds.

Perth/Wakefield

Take a drive to either of these little towns in the outskirts of Ottawa. Both of these places are very quaint and are just far enough away from the city to make for a fun road trip. Wander through the rustic shops, grab lunch at one of the small restaurants, have an ice cream, or jump daringly jump off the wakefield bridge hand in hand (safely)! Enjoy the drive there and back with some good tunes, snacks and better company.

Arboretum

Sometimes its easy to forget the wealth of natural resources we have in this city. To opt for something a little different than the canal, walk or run through the arboretum for the couple who enjoys being active and outdoors. For couples looking for a great picnic spot this also fits the bill.

Elmdale Oyster House / Walking pub crawl

Catch a live show at the Elmdale Oyster house. Enjoy some aphrosidacs while taking in a live performance. While you’re close to Westboro, work your way down the strip, have a few drinks at some of the various destinations that will catch your eye, find a spot for another light bite and then continue on your tour to find a sweet ending.The same tour could be repeated in any of Ottawa’s hot spots, like the Glebe, Elgin Street, or Byward Market.

County Fair

Almost every small town on the outskirts of Ottawa has its own fair. Whether you’re heading to Shawville, Navan, Merrickville or the newly named “Capital Fair”, take a ferris wheel ride, eat some cotton candy and make sure your sweetheart wins you a nice prize to take home.

Movie in the park 

Remember that scene from The Wedding Planner when J-Lo and Matthew McConnaughey watch a movie in the park? Your date will be EXACTLY like that! Centretown Movies Outdoor Film Festival is in Dundonald Park (512 Somerset St. W. between Bay and Lyon) all summer. Films are screened every Friday, weather permitting, starting at 9 p.m. If you want to be extra romantic, take a drive to Port Elmsley, about an hour away, to take in a drive in movie.