Spring has sprung and now it's time to get out of our funks and actually plan ahead. It's nice to not have to worry about the weather, but let's not get ahead of ourselves. I'm sure I'm not the only one planning road trips with friends for spring and summer, because we allll need to get away. When you think of spring you probably think flowers, warmer weather and patios. At least I do.
Best friends are usually down for anything. Just say the word, tag them in the Facebook post, and you're already making plans. Now that winter is over, we don't have to panic about driving in the snow. Now it's all about the spring and summer bucket lists, and you're going to want to put these on that list for sure. So grab your BFFs and get going!
@equator.nac.cnaTake in the gorgeous views at this new coffee shop
Equator Coffee Roasters just opened up on April 12th, and it's already a hot spot. It's located in the National Arts Centre, which means the views while drinking your coffee will be unreal. Have a BFF date here while you catch up with each other or gossip a little.
@bilczuk27Have a cheat day (or couple of days) at Ottawa PoutineFest
Who doesn't love poutine? And when you're BFFs, you can share each others and not get annoyed. This massive poutine festival is on from April 19th to April 22nd, and there are so many options to choose from!
@chatimecanadaSip on a cold drink at the most adorable bubble tea shop
Chatime is a popular bubble tea shop around the world, and a few months ago it opened in Ottawa. They have a ton of flavours, and you won't be disappointed with any flavour you get. This is a great drink to sip on while having a girls day, shopping, or just roaming around the city.
@courtney.oneillSpend a sunny day at the Canadian Tulip Festival
The Canadian Tulip Festival is the largest tulip festival in the world. From May 11th to May 21st, you can experience the tulips in so many parts of downtown Ottawa. There are vendors there so you can sip on a lemonade, homemade fudge, and more.
@sabinakuksGet tipsy on bottomless mimosas at The Vanitea Room
Bottomless mimosas seem to not really be a thing in Ottawa, so when you find them, you hold on to it. The Vanitea Room is not only so adorable, but they have the most delicious brunch and you can add bottomless mimosas on to that brunch for $15. I think that's a steal!
@wanderlustnow90Take a road trip to any one of these amazing beginner hikes
Hiking can be super hard if you're not used to it. So beginner hikes are where it's at, and that doesn't mean the views are boring! Some of these hikes are super close to Ottawa and some are a far drive, but no matter what you choose, you and your BFFs will have a blast.
@ottawa_magazineCheck out the beautiful cherry blossoms at the Dominion Arboretum
These stunning trees bloom every year between late April and early May, so you haven't missed them yet! This is a great opportunity for a BFF Instagram picture, or just to take a walk and appreciate nature. You can grab a coffee or a cold drink before hand!
@mikaylakendrickEat some gourmet hotdogs and beer at Tavern on the Hill
What is better than this view, honestly? Tavern on the Hill is set to reopen during May, and we cannot wait. The views of Parliament while eating their delicious hotdogs and sipping on beer or wine... that just screams summer. You and your BFFs will have a blast!
@story__catcherWatch the sunset at Andrew Haydon Park
What is cuter than watching the sunset?! Not a lot. You don't need a bae to do this with, and you guys can bring snacks and make a picnic! It's a great way to pass the time while spending quality time with each other.
@northsideespressoTake a mini road trip to NORTHSIDE Espresso + Kitchen
Located in Kingston, this road trip would take you less than two hours! And it's totally worth it for Northside. This cafe is inspired by the cafes in Australia, and it's so aesthetically pleasing. If you and your BFFs love coffee, this is the place to be.
@vxnhIndulge in a cold treat at The Merry Dairy
The Merry Dairy used to be an ice cream truck that would park around Ottawa, and now it's an adorable store that you need to check out. They have a ton of delicious flavours as well as cool cones, ice cream sandwiches, and more!
@cityofomRelax and get your zen on at this yoga festival
When you're stressed, yoga is great. But so is hanging out with your best friends! At City of Om, you can have both at the same time! It's a yoga festival that is happening on June 2nd from 8 am to 5 pm at Lansdowne Park.
@steph_therockCheck out the most adorable and new chocolate shop in Ottawa
Are you even best friends if you don't want to treat yourselves together? Alicja Confections is a new chocolate shop that is to die for. They have the cutest chocolate bars and you'll want every flavour. She sells them all over Canada, but this is the first actual store. And it definitely won't be the last!