The Best Date Ideas in Ottawa

Sometimes it can be hard to figure out what to do especially in a smaller city like Ottawa but there's so much going on that make great Ottawa date ideas for you and your partner. This list has got the newest and best Ottawa date spots and even some old favorites. Impress your date by reading this list and discovering some new places to try and fun things to do in this beautiful city.

The History of Date Ideas in Ottawa

It's no surprise that Ottawa's most popular date ideas are exploring their many museums, galleries, and historical landmarks. Ottawa is a city that is rich in history and it also helps that so many of their historical landmarks are surrounded by beautiful gardens and green parks. Parliament Hill is a great spot for some of the best Ottawa date ideas because there's always something going on. Whether it's the Sound and Light show, which is absolutely free and bilingual and involves watching images projected onto the side of the Parliament buildings, or telling each other a secret message at Ottawa's famous whispering wall, Ottawa's historical landmarks are one of the best fun and easy date ideas out there.

If you haven't seen it yet, the changing of the guard happens in the summer every day at 10 am on Parliament Hill and is a pretty neat thing to see when you're exploring Canada's parliament. You can also explore some of Ottawa's architectural gems and historical buildings during Doors Open which takes place over two days in early June where you can get access to some of Ottawa's famous historical buildings for free. It's a great idea for couples who enjoy walking and exploring their home city and getting a sneak peek into some famous architecture and buildings. Ottawa has a great selection of museums that have special discounts and pop-up exhibits which means that there's always something new to see.

For no pressure Ottawa date ideas, the National Gallery of Canada has the largest comprehensive collection of Canadian art with a special exhibit of Inuit Art which is a great idea for artists and creative types. Plus, the gallery has free admission on Thursdays between 5-8pm. Are you on a budget? The Canada Aviation and Space Museum, Canada Agriculture and Food Museum, and Canada Science and Technology Museum have free admission every day between 4-5pm. If you love science and want something more modern, The Canada Science and Technology Museum is very interactive and you'll get a chance to pull levers, push buttons, and learn about marine and land transportation, communications technology, space exploration, and computer technology. It's a great chance to see some of the history of Canada and its influence in the world but also to learn something new together.

If you're not sure what to do, why not try exploring some of Ottawa's neighborhoods? ByWard Market is a historic district with tons of trendy food and shopping available. The shops are eclectic local boutiques, as well as an outdoor market that has fresh flowers, fruits, vegetables, and work from local artists. It's got a great vibe and some great Ottawa date spots to check out if you're a fan of cycling as the neighborhood is cyclist-friendly. All of Ottawa is LGBT+-friendly and inclusive but The Village on Bank Street is the city's gay-friendly neighborhood. It's a great place for great LGBT+ bars and clubs with a bustling nightlife scene with many gay-owned and gay-operated businesses. The bars, restaurants, and boutiques are local and visiting this district supports the community and one of Ottawa's friendliest neighborhoods.

The perfect neighborhood for young 20-30 somethings and students is The Glebe. Its location, near Carleton University, makes it a trendy hangout spot. The streets are filled with color from the street art on the sides of buildings and also the people and buildings. It's home to Mayfair Theatre, a historic building that still shows movies including a monthly showing of The Room, and a watching a terrible movie together is one of the best date ideas to have. You can also check out some of the local eats, like Kettleman's, or any of the shops as well. There's always something new to see and discover at The Glebe. It's also home to the largest garage sale in Canada, the Great Glebe Garage Sale which is one of the neatest Ottawa date ideas where you can score some great deals and fun items for your home.

Movie dates are popular Ottawa date ideas and there's tons of small cinemas to watch classic and independent movies including bilingual ones as well. If you're looking for a different take on a typical movie date, Cineplex Landsdowne's theatres have plush and reclining seats, a full bar and dinner menu which is delivered to your seat by servers. It's a great place to watch a summer blockbuster or just indulge on date night. If you're looking for a classic outdoor movie theatre, look no further than Centretown movies. Admission is pay-what-you-can but get there quick because there's no reserved seating but with a chance to view movies under the night sky in Dundonald Park, it's a small price to pay. If movies aren't your favorite thing, bowling dates have gotten more popular especially Walkley Bowling Centre's Rock 'n Bowl. It's the place to find glow-in-the-dark bowling and it also has a fully-licensed bar so you can grab a drink while you bowl.

Best Time to Go Out

Typically date nights are Thursdays-Saturdays, but Ottawa has tons to do on Sunday afternoons and you can even save a few bucks too. Rock 'n Bowl runs on Thursday-Saturday nights as well as Sunday afternoons. Many of Ottawa's museums and art galleries have free admission on Thursdays and most local bars and restaurants are going to be pretty empty on a Thursday night making it a great place for an intimate date with your significant other. If you're looking to book a class or make a reservation, weekdays are your best bet because they're going to be less busy so if you don't mind being a little tired at work at the next day; it's a great time to go out. If not, Fridays and Saturdays are great options for date nights and there are tons to do all around the city.

Date Ideas Ottawa: Directory

If you're going to be dating in Ottawa, chances are that you'll be doing a lot of walking around and there are plenty of small neighborhoods and districts where you can enjoy yourselves. But if you want to see the best Ottawa date spots then InstantHookups has got you covered. If you're interested in some awesome date ideas and some more information on some favorites, check out our list below.

Churchills

Swizzles

Lusk Caves in Gatineau Park

Ward 14 Consignment Bar

Vineyards Wine Bar Bistro

Rainbow Bistro

The Haunted Walk

The Urban Element

Fun Haven

City At Night

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Churchills

Type:: Pub
Space:: Modern, tavern
Crowd:: Fun, casual, young adults
Website:: churchillsottawa.com
Address:: 356 Richmond Rd, Ottawa, ON K2A 0E8
Any Notes:: Imported and local craft beers, gourmet menu
Brief Description:: Churchills is a great spot for casual Ottawa date ideas. It's got a friendly atmosphere that makes it the perfect spot to grab a drink especially if you love beer and love trying local brews. Their menu isn't typical pub fare and that's what makes it so good. Enjoy corn bread, calamari, or the Churchill Buger with locally raised organic ground beef.

Swizzles

Type:: Bar, pub
Space:: Comfortable, tavern
Crowd:: Young and mature adults, LGBT+
Website:: swizzles.ca
Address:: 246 Queen Street, Ottawa, ON K1A 0H5
Any Notes:: No cover, pool table, comedy night
Brief Description:: This bar's laid-back charm make it a standout if you're looking for LGBT+ friendly pubs. It's a no-frills type of establishment which makes it very comfortable and ideal if you just want to get a drink or sing your heart at karaoke on Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays. It's a classic neighbourhood bar, the perfect place to hang out with friends and it's a popular spot for LGBT+ couples who don't want a lot of flash in their gay bars.

Lusk Caves in Gatineau Park

Type:: Marble caves
Space:: National park, stream, caves
Crowd:: Active, young and mature adults
Website:: ncc-ccn.gc.ca
Address:: 33 Scott Road, Old Chelsea, QC J9B 1R5
Any Notes:: Underground maps, cave trails
Brief Description:: You don't have to go far to try out cave diving when there's the Lusk Caves in Gatineau Park. The cave will take you about 4 hours and includes a bit of hiking and swimming so make sure to pack a bathing suit and some water shoes. You'll be enjoying a dip in low to moderate deep water and you have to dive under to get out of the cave. Make a whole day of it and bring a picnic basket and blanket and enjoy the fresh air and sunshine.

Ward 14 Consignment Bar

Type:: Bar, consignment store
Space:: Unique, pub-style
Crowd:: Hip, young adults
Website:: consignmentbar.ca
Address:: 139 Preston Street, Ottawa, ON K1R 7P4
Any Notes:: trivia nights, cocktails, antiques
Brief Description:: This new fusion bar and consignment store is sure to be a fun time. All items in the bar are for sale and they've got books, clocks, gum ball machines, and figurines, etc. available. The quirkier the better and it's a great conversation-starter for dates. They also have trivia nights and a nice brunch menu and cocktail bar. Don't forget to pick up a little something as a souvenir of your date.

Vineyards Wine Bar Bistro

Type:: Wine bar, restaurant
Space:: Casual, relaxed
Crowd:: Young and mature adults
Website:: vineyards.ca
Address:: 54 York Street (In the Cellar), Ottawa, ON K1N 5T1
Any Notes:: Jazz nights, $1 oysters on Fridays and Saturdays
Brief Description:: Get paired up with an excellent meal and a complimentary wine selection at Vineyards Wine Bar Bistro. It's the perfect setting for a romantic date night in the city. The restaurant/bar makes for one of Ottawa's classy date ideas and is a great way to taste some new flavors and wine. If wine isn't your favorite, they have a selection of single malt scotches and imported beers.

Rainbow Bistro

Type:: Gay bar
Space:: live music venue, second level balcony
Crowd:: LGBT+, young and mature adults
Website:: therainbow.ca
Address:: 76 Murray Street, Ottawa, ON K1N 5M6
Any Notes:: Affordable drinks, open mic nights
Brief Description:: This is one of the oldest LGBT+ bars in Ottawa and is a fun night out too. Rainbow Bistro is well-known for their live music and it's a great place to listen to local talent and find some new favourites in dozens of genres. It's packed on Saturdays so if you're looking for it to be one of your new Ottawa date spots, try going on a weekday. You'll never be bored of this place, they have something going on 7 days a week.

The Haunted Walk

Type:: Walking tours
Space:: Downtown streets and buildings
Crowd:: Young and mature adults
Website:: hauntedwalk.com
Address:: 46 ｽ Sparks Street, Ottawa, ON K1P 5A8
Any Notes:: Different themed tours, lots of walking
Brief Description:: Ghosts walk the street at The Haunted Walk Tour which is a popular tourist attraction in the city. Everyone should try this tour at least once if only for the laughs and the chance to explore the darker side of the city. This outdoor tour visits the most haunted spots in Ottawa including Carleton County Jail. They have general tours available but also special guided tours visiting Ottawa's jailhouses, haunted neighborhoods, and so much more. This is a really fun date ideas for couples who love getting scared.

The Urban Element

Type:: Culinary event space and kitchen
Space:: Open-concept, culinary event space
Crowd:: Foodies, young and mature adults
Website:: theurbanelement.ca
Address:: 424 Parkdale Avenue, Ottawa, ON K1Y 1H1
Any Notes:: communal table, hands on, wine and beer
Brief Description:: Cook up a storm at The Urban Element which offers monthly cooking classes with your significant other. They have two innovative menus and have hands-on demonstrations with some of Ottawa's best chefs with the aim of creating a delicious multi-course meal. It's also a great place to learn chef-worthy skills that you can try yourself at home when you feel like making a gourmet home cooked meal for your partner. This is the perfect date idea because it involves learning something new and a full meal including wine, coffee, and assorted teas.

Fun Haven

Type:: Entertainment centre
Space:: Bar, escape room
Crowd:: Active, young and mature adults
Website:: funhaven.com
Address:: 1050 Baxter Rd, Ottawa, ON K2C 3P1
Any Notes:: pizza, fair-type foods
Brief Description:: What's more fun than an arcade? An arcade with alcohol of course! Funhaven is 19+ on Friday nights and you can challenge your partner to some of the place's arcade and carnival games, or try out a number of their other attractions. Purchase of tickets gets you access to laser tag, laser frenzy, a climbing wall, mini lane bowling, ball pit, and even bumper cars. They even have an escape room opening up soon so keep an eye out on their website for details on that. If you can't decide what to do on a Friday night, try out Funhaven for a little bit of everything!

City At Night

Type:: Night club
Space:: Small venue,
Crowd:: Young adults, fun and social
Website:: cityatnight.ca
Address:: 222 Slater St, Ottawa, ON K1P 5H8
Any Notes:: Good music, mainly hip hop
Brief Description:: If you're looking for a fun atmosphere and good music, City at Night has that and more. The intimate venue makes for a comfortable and casual night out hosted by active DJs, artists, and promoters. They have a range of music genres and an event called #RewindSundays which brings together local DJs to play throwback and classic jams.

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If these aren't quite cutting it, you can always check InstantHookups for more different date spots or maybe even create your own perfect date by combining some of the places we've suggested. There's also plenty of events and festivals that are excellent Ottawa Date Spots or make your own scavenger hunt and see some of Ottawa's street art, old businesses, and interesting architecture. Whatever you choose, you're sure to have a good time.

More Date Ideas and Date Spots Information

Heading to Vancouver for a vacation and want to try some fun date ideas? Check out Instanthookups.com for a guide to the top date spots in Vancouver. They also have other Canadian city dating guides HERE.

Tried everything on our list? You can find other Ottawa Date Ideas by clicking HERE.

US Date Spots

The United States of America quite probably has the largest selection of date spots of any country worldwide. No matter which city you live in (or are visiting) throughout the country, there are seemingly unlimited options for US date spots and date ideas. That should come as no surprise though! With over 109 million single people out there looking for love (or lust, we don13t judge), there is a lot of money to be made in the US date spots industry.

Notable US date spots include: The Carousel Bar & Lounge in New Orleans, Louisiana; Tiki-Ti in Los Angeles, California; The Frolic Room in Hollywood, California; Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City, New York; Smithsonian Institution in Washington, D.C.; Walt Disney World in Orlando, Florida; Gateway Arch in St. Louis, Missouri; The Uptown Theatre in Washington, D.C.; Grauman's Chinese Theatre, in Hollywood, Los Angeles, Wrigley Field in Chicago, Illinois; and so many more!

Click here to check out our full guide on US date ideas and date spots. Scroll down to see our directory of US date spots by city or to continue on to the next country:

Arizona Atlanta Austin Baltimore Boston Chicago Cincinnati Dallas Houston Kansas City Las Vegas Los Angeles Louisville Miami Minneapolis New Jersey New York City Philadelphia Portland Sacramento San Diego San Francisco Seattle Utah Washington

UK Date Spots

As of 2014, 51% of the UK population is single so you can rest easy knowing there is no lack of UK date spots! You will find that UK date spots are heavy on the pubs and taverns compared to the US date spots, but that does not mean there isn't still a ton of great alternative date spots to check out!

Notable UK date spots include: The Lion Inn in Winchcombe, England; The Grenadier in London, England; The Sligachan Hotel on the Isle of Skye, Scotland; The Ship & Castle in Aberystwyth, Wales; Peadar O' Donnell's in Derry, Northern Ireland; Wembley Stadium in London, England; The O2 in London, England; Stonehenge in Wiltshire, England; and so many more!

Click here to check out our full guide on UK date ideas and date spots. Scroll down to see our directory of UK date spots by city or to continue on to the next country:

Belfast Bristol Cardiff Edinburgh Glasgow Liverpool London Manchester Nottingham Sheffield

Canada Date Spots

Canada is a land of many kind of date spots, including a ton of natural wonders and landmarks. They also have over 14 million single people looking for date ideas and date partners, so if this is your home and native land, you are in luck!

Notable Canada date spots include: NWT Brewing Company in Yellowknife, Northwest Territories; Big in Japan in Montreal, Quebec; The Shameful Tiki Room in Toronto, Ontario; Snakes and Lattes in Toronto, Ontario; Kinsmen Pitch and Putt in Edmonton, Alberta; White Butte Trails in Regina; Algonquin Park in Algonquin, Ontario; and so many more!

Click here to check out our full guide on Canada date ideas and date spots. Scroll down to see our directory of Canada date spots by city:

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The Best Date Ideas in Ottawa

Canada's Capital City is the place to be for exciting date ideas and InstantHookups.com has got a list of the best date ideas in Ottawa for you to try.