Moving to a new city can be tough. You have to make new friends, meet people, and adapt to a whole new place. Fortunately, major cities such as Ottawa have endless things to do so you can get out there and discover it. Of course, if you don't have any friends yet, it can be intimidating to partake in some of these options.
Ottawa, however, also has a bunch of things that you can do by yourself in order to get to know the city better, and to meet new people. Here are 13 things to do if you're new to Ottawa and looking to get out there:
Visit the Museum of Nature
Where: 240 McLeod St. // Downtown
Why You Should Go: the Museum of Nature is highly underrated and it's one of the best museums in Ottawa. Whether you're going to learn more or just to look at a new exhibition, it's something I'd recommend doing solo or with a friend, as long as you go!
Go on a shopping spree at Rideau Center
Where: 1 Rideau St. // Downtown
Why You Should Go: Rideau Center has undergone some pretty dope renovations! The mall has been expanded and the implementation of new stores has been surreal. It's hard to believe that Ottawa actually has a mall with some designer and luxury stores, but it's true! Rideau is the spot to go to for a care free shopping spree on your own.
Do some outdoor activities by (or on) the Canal
Why You Should Go: the Ottawa River (Canal) presents Ottawans with so many different activities to do all year long! Whether it's jogging or bicycling along the paths, or skating on the Canal, the options are endless and it's a great way to get a workout in or simply enjoy the scenery.
Catch a movie at South Keys Cinema
Where: 2214 Bank St. // Ottawa South
Why You Should Go: South Keys Cinema is rarely frequented, unless it's a cheap Tuesday. No one judges you when you show up alone, and that's if there even is anyone else in the theater! It's very low key but the seats are comfy, the popcorn always tastes great, and going to the movies alone is an awesome experience.
Get your nails done while you sip on some drinks at J'Adore Beauty Bar and Lounge
Where: 329A Elgin St. // Downtown
Why You Should Go: you deserve to pamper yourself from time to time and what better way to do so than by getting your nails done and sipping some alcohol?
Partake in some yoga on Parliament Hill
Where: Wellington St. // Downtown
Why You Should Go: yoga is supposed to allow you to concentrate and relax so you may as well do it alone! Yoga on the Hill is a great way to get your weekly yoga session in for free, and make some new friends if that's what you're lookign for!
Discover a new biology by visiting Aquatopia Conservatory
Where: 2710 March Rd. // Ottawa West
Why You Should Go: the cafe here is the best spot to just get away and enjoy a nice cup of coffee. You'll be surrounded by life and animals, and it's really just the best spot to take some time for yourself.
Grab a bite to eat at Louis' Pizza
Where: 181 McArthur Rd. // Vanier
Why You Should Go: asides from having some of the best pizza in the city, they also have some of the best service! Their pizza tastes good fresh and warmed up so if you decide to take the leftovers home after your solo date, you won't regret it.
And then get some dessert at the Nutella Cafe
Where: 193 Metcalfe St. // Downtown
Why You Should Go: because Nutella, why else?
Go for a hike in Gatineau Park
Where: Gatineau
Why You Should Go: they say nature is the best healer! It's highly recommended by professionals that people get in touch with nature and go outside more. Ottawans are fortunate to have such beautiful biodiversity so why not take advantage? Let someone know you're heading into the woods and then tune yourself out while you take in the beautiful scenery!
Get a massage at Nordik
Where: 16 Chemin Nordik // Gatineau
Why You Should Go: Nordik Spa is the go-to Ottawa location for a day of relaxation and tuning out from the world. Whether you choose to go with friends or on your own, it's always a good time. You won't even be able to thinking about feeling awkward if you're alone because of how relaxed you'll be.
Try something new and go skydiving at Parachute Go
Where: 1717 Rue Arthur-Fecteau // Gatineau
Why You Should Go: let go of all your fears, and take on this challenge solo! Skydiving is not for the faint of heart but definitely for you thrill seekers. Fortunately, you're paired up with an instructor so even if you're feeling lonely, that feeling won't last long... especially not when you have a bunch of adrenaline running through your body.
Visit an Ottawa psychic
Where: various locations
Why You Should Go: tis' the season to scare yourself sh*tless and indulge in all things non-conventional. If you're a believer of the paranormal and the supenatural, why not visit a psychic to learn more about yourself? Hey, even if you are doubtful, you never know who could change your mind. This is a great activity to do solo, and some popular Ottawa psychics include: Colleen McIntosh, Ken Mason, and Jennifer Hall.