11 Free Things To Do In Ottawa This April

Not an April Fool's joke.

April's an odd time of year in Ottawa per se. Officially, it's spring, but the weather's still grey and it's just never quite nice enough to do stuff outside quite yet. There's usually no big holidays, except for Easter this year, and for us students we're in the final stretch of the finals. It's really a grey zone of a month.

Nevertheless there's always free stuff to do year-round in Ottawa. Here's X free things you can do this April in Ottawa:

Join an epic flash mob on Parliament Hill

On Sunday April 2, there's going to be a zumba flash mob on Parliament Hill. Event organizers are asking that you wear blue. More info can be found here.

via @ifyouaskmc

Embrace the longer spring days by taking a walk through the Mer Bleue Bog.

A well-maintained boardwalk will take you through this quiet, scenic area on Ottawa's eat end.

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Enjoy free admission to the National Art Gallery on Thursdays

From 5-8pm, admission to their permanent exhibits are free.

Attend a salsa dancing night at Hooley's

On Saturday April 1, try some salsa dancing (beginners welcome) with your SO or friends. Event details here.

via @cinrosed

Take a scenic drive up to the Champlain Lookout.

Or try one of these other scenic drives across Ottawa and Gatineau.

https://www.instagram.com/p/BAkht7TtmhX/?taken-by=t_carnegie

Head outside and take some pictures of wall art around the Glebe

Recommended wall arts to check out are at Arlington Five, outside Wilf & Ada's and Octopus Books (all within walking distance of each other).

via @alannaisabelle

Get a new profile pic and take a bathroom selfie at one of these places.

New season, new DP.

via @rolandbast

Watch the sunset from Andaz's rooftop.

Or check out the sunset at one of these other places across the city.

via @the.architxct

Take a quick stroll through Notre Dame Cathedral.

Can't afford the one in Paris? This church is just as beautiful as any other European church.

via @e71000

Take a free tour of Parliament

Honestly, you've lived here your whole life but have you actually gone inside? Free guided tours are offered in the centre block daily. If you're more of the independent type, they also have self-guided tours up to the top of the Peace Tower. Watch the snow melt from Ottawa's highest point.

via @travel_people_places

Jog along the Rideau Canal

As the snow thaws (slowly, very slowly), it's about time for us runners to get off the treadmill and actually get outside.