13 Romantic Things You Can Actually Do In Ottawa's ByWard Market
For visitors, a trip to Ottawa is never complete without a stroll through the historic ByWard Market. And for locals, the market is the perfect place to unwind and sip cocktails after work. Full of romantic restaurants, stunning art, charming cafes, and more, it's basically the heart of the capital and the perfect place for a little romance. So, if you're looking for cute things to do in Byward Market, look no further.
With Valentine’s Day right around the corner, you’re likely looking for sweet date night ideas.
Of course, there are plenty of restaurants in the city that your date secretly wants to go to, but the truth is, most of them are in the market anyways.
And if dinner is not your ideal date, don’t worry. There’s so much more to do here.
From beautiful interactive art installations to horse-drawn rides that will make you feel like you’re in New York City, you’ll find no shortage of romantic activities in the market.
So take a peek at the list below, and start mapping out those V-day plans ASAP.
Fall Tortellini In Love @ Mezzanotte Bistro
Price: Prices vary
Address: 50 Murray St., Ottawa, ON
Why You Need To Go: Pasta and romance go together like no other, and the atmosphere here just exudes romance.
Sip Winterlude-Themed Cocktails @ Zoe's
Price: Cocktails $16-$23
Address: 1 Rideau St., Ottawa, ON
Why You Need To Go: Not only are these Winterlude-themed cocktails too cute for words, but you can sip them from inside an actual castle a.k.a Fairmont Chateau Laurier.
Indulge @ Oh-So Good Desserts & Coffeehouse
Price: Prices vary
Address: 25 York St., Ottawa, ON
Why You Need To Go: Nothing says romance like sharing a huge slice of rich and delicious cake.
Take A Romantic Horse-Drawn Ride
Price: Free for Winterlude
When: By appointment
Address: 113 York St., Ottawa, ON
Why You Need To Go: You can book romantic rides with Cundell Stables, or keep your eyes open for free horse-drawn rides during Winterlude.
Go Book Shopping @ Patrick McGahern Books
Price: Prices vary
When: Open Tuesday to Saturday
Address: 11 Murray St., Ottawa, ON
Why You Need To Go: Not that anyone should be taking romance advice from Joe Goldberg of You, but if he has taught us anything, it's that book stores are inherently romantic.
Dinner & Drinks @ Social
Price: Prices vary
When: Monday to Saturday
Address: 537 Sussex Dr., Ottawa, ON
Why You Need To Go: The mouthwatering French cuisine and romantic atmosphere will have you falling totally l'amour.
Take A Cooking Class @ C'est Bon Cooking
Price: Classes from $62 +
When: Monday to Saturday
Address: 200 Dalhousie St., Ottawa, ON
Why You Need To Go: You don't have to stay home to cook each other a romantic meal.
Feel Fondue of Each Other @ Cacao70
Price: Prices vary
Address: 53 William St. Unit #51, Ottawa, ON
Why You Need To Go: From Earl Grey to matcha, peanut butter, and more, there are so many delicious chocolate fondues for you to try here.
Check Out Play Food + Wine
Price: Prices vary
Address: 1 York St., Ottawa, ON
Why You Need To Go: You and your S/O can sip wine by the glass and enjoy a variety of tasty share plates.
Strike A Pose @ The Ottawa Sign
Price: Free
Address: York St., Ottawa, ON
Why You Need To Go: If you haven't seen it yet, Ottawa recently got a brand new sign, and it's sure to light up your night.
Share Beavertails
Price: Prices vary
Address: 69 George St., Ottawa, ON
Why You Need To Go: You can enjoy something sweet with someone sweet for some real winter romance.
Interact With Winterlude Art Installations
Price: Free
When: Various dates, Winterlude
Address: Byward Market, Ottawa, ON
Why You Need To Go: Winterlude is bringing a ton of interactive art installations to the market that are worth checking out. You can see them all here.
Chill Out @ Copper On Ice
Price: $10 entry
When: Various dates, Winterlude
Address: 325 Dalhousie St., Ottawa, ON
Why You Need To Go: Copper Spirits and Sights is one of the most stunning places to grab a drink not only in the market but in the whole city. For Winterlude, they will be transforming their rooftop patio into a magical ice bar.