There are so many people out there that think you always need a drink to have a good time, but that is so far from the truth. Summer is usually all about patio season, going out always involves heading to a patio for some drinks. Yes, having some drinks on a patio is fun for some people, but sometimes when you don't drink it can get a tad boring. There are so many other things you can do this summer to have a great time even if you don't drink.
Ottawa is filled with places and activities that are sure to have you in a great mood without the need to drink. Whether you're someone that is super adventurous or more chill, there are so many things you can do to have the best summer ever. It's time to make this summer more memorable than any other!
@hannahmunshiRent a canoe, kayak, or paddle board down Dow's Lake
This is such a great way to enjoy the summer weather. Canoeing, kayaking, and paddle boarding are all fun activities that will keep you laughing and smiling through the entire experience. Renting your ride of choice costs $20 and up. If you have never tried this, now is your chance to try something new!
@instaacass_Completely unwind at Nordik Spa-Nature
So many people say that they need to have a drink in order to "relax" or "unwind", but I for sure think all you need to do is have a solid spa day. Whether you do a quick one at home, or you head to the unbelievable Nordik Spa Nature, you're in for a day of full on relaxation. From saunas to hut tubs, you are sure to enjoy your time at this huge spa.
@nhueatsTry out macaron flavoured ice cream from Quelque Chose Pâtisserie
What better way to satisfy your sweet tooth than by having one of these unreal macaron soft serve ice creams? They come in so many different flavours, from S'more to brownie to cotton candy, you will have trouble choosing exactly which one you'd like to indulge in the most. It's time to take in all the summer vibes and enjoy an amazing ice cream from Quelque Chose.
@grandsfeuxducasinoWatch the incredible Sound of Light firework show
From August 4th to 18th Casino Du Lac-Leamy puts on this insane firework show that can't be missed. Each year countries compete against each other to see who can put on the best firework display. This year the countries are Spain, United States, China, and Germany. You can watch the fireworks from downtown Ottawa, but to get the full effect it's best to head to the Canadian Museum of History. Each display is perfectly paired with a variety of songs, the show will mesmerize you and leave you in awe.
@glampingcanadaEscape from reality and go glamping at Elements Luxury Tented Camp
For those of you who don't know, "glamping" is the combination of glamour and camping. If you're wanting to embrace nature's beauty but you're not 100% ready to sleep on the ground in a tent, then this is definetly a trip for you. It's a great way to escape reality and take in nature's wonder while also feeling comfortable and at home.
@healthyitalianwifeHave a cute picnic at any Ottawa Park
Pack up your favourite picnic foods and head to a local park for a picnic under the summer sun. Whether you head to a park with your squad or go on a date with your bae, this is a fun way to spend time outside and chat away your day. You can also bring some card games along with you or a frisbee to play catch. Even if you simply head to a park to eat some snacks, this is a great summer activity that's pretty cheap and doesn't need to involve drinking.
@cflMake your way to TD Place and support the Ottawa Redblacks
Football season is back and there's no better way to celebrate than by watching an Ottawa Redblacks game. The next few games in Ottawa are on June 21st, July 12th, July 20th, and August 11th. You don't need to drink to have fun supporting your team at a fun Redblacks game. Ticket prices range between $27 to $132 dollars depending on where you want to sit.
@ruiruifDiscover some of Ottawa's Cafes With Hidden Patios
There are so many amazing cafes in our city, but not many of them have hidden patios. This summer is your chance to sip on an iced coffee while at a secluded patio. Whether you want to enjoy an outdoor brunch or a yummy acaii bowl or simply just a coffee, there are so many places with hidden patios that you need to check out this summer.
@alise.gertyBe completely adventurous at Camp Fortune's Aerial Park
Camp Fortune's park is filled with challenging aerial courses and zip-lines that will get your adrenaline pumping. Whether you want to adventure through the forest or simply go hiking, Camp Fortune has a variety of things that you can do to get outside this summer. It's time to conquer your fears and unleash your inner Tarzan!
@_juliabuiCool off with a popsicle from Playa Del Popsical
With the humid weather upon us, there is no better way to cool off than by having a refreshing popsicle. Playa Del Popsical will transport you straight to the beach and will have you feeling all the summer vibes. They sell amazing homemade popsicles you will surely love! This mini staycation is a great way to soak up the summer sun while totally cooling off.
@thejunemotelTake a Spontaneous Day Trip that's less than 3 hours away from Ottawa
Things that happen completely spontaneously always end up being some of the most fun filled memories you have. There are so many places that are less than 3 hours away from Ottawa that are sure to have you creating memories that will last forever. Whether you like beaches, hikes, or markets, there are so many day trips you can take that will make your summer so memorable.
@karmatthewsSpend your day soaking up the sun at an Ottawa Beach
There are so many beaches in and around Ottawa that are sure to give you immediate summer vibes. Even if you don't go for a swim, chilling by the beach is always such a fun way to spend your day. Some beaches have food places close by or ice cream shops in walking distance (yes, please). Britannia Beach is home to a burger place as well as a hidden ice cream shop.
@what_the_trotSpend your day unleashing your inner child at the Navan Fair
From August 9th to 12th you can head to the Navan Fair for a fun filled day. Whether you like chill rides like the Ferris Wheel or rides that will give you an adrenaline rush, there's something for everyone at the Navan Fair. The fair usually has dog shows, concerts, horse shows, and of course, a ton of rides.
@daniellelevesqDance the night away at Ottawa Bluesfest
Sure the line up isn't that great, but there must be at least one person you'd be down to go see, so why not go see them?! Summer is a time of fun so whether you love the line up or not, going to Bluesfest is always a good time. The vibe of everyone is super fun and even if you don't drink, the atmosphere is sure to make you have a blast.
@simplystephkoGo strawberry picking at Shouldice Berry Farm and Market
From mid June to mid July strawberry picking season is in full swing. If you have never had the chance to go strawberry picking, this summer is your shot. Strawberry picking is such a fun activity, whether you're going with your fam-jam or your BFFs, there's nothing sweeter than picking fresh strawberries to eat.
@sppa.societyCheck out Parliament Hill's Northern Lights Sound and Light show
Every summer Parliament Hill showcases their Northern Lights Sound and Light show for free. This summer activity is a great way to end your night after spending your day downtown. From July 9th to September 3rd the Sound and Light show will happen every night on the Hill. In July the show will be at 10p pm, in August it will be at 9:30 pm, and in September it will be at 9 pm.
@joshf1985Indulge in traditional Greek food at Ottawa's Greek Fest
Greek Fest starts on August 9th and will be open for 10 days of Greek fun! Whether you go for the traditional music or the delicious foods or the great dancing, Greek Fest is sure to have you feeling welcome. If you go you need to try the traditional Greek dessert called loukoumades, seriously, that's my personal favourite thing about the festival.