Looking for fun things to do outside this winter by yourself, with friends or with loved-ones? Stay active by skating, skiing, snowshoeing, hiking and more.
Just a 10-minute drive from downtown Ottawa is Gatineau, a small city on the Quebec side of the Ontario/Quebec border.
With its close proximity, Ottawa locals and tourists have access to a variety of events, restaurants, museums, nature and North America’s largest spa!
Food + Drinks
Head to Old Chelsea in Gatineau where you’ll find homemade ice cream during the spring, summer, and fall months at La Cigale. Other can’t miss food and drink destinations in Old Chelsea include Palmier Café and Chelsea Pub.
If you’re looking for an elevated dining experience, check out Sans Facon and Soif Bar à Vin.
Arts + Culture
Experience North America’s largest spa with a trip to Nordik Spa Village Chelsea. With four restaurants, nine outdoor baths, eight unique saunas, an infinity pool, a yoga and meditation room, an exfoliation room, and seven outdoor massage pavilions, you’ll get the luxurious rest and relaxation you deserve.
Outdoor activities
Gatineau Park is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. With a number of hiking, mountain biking and snowshoeing trails, exceptional road cycling paths, a ski hill, a zipline and aerial park and rock climbing, there’s truly something for everyone.
Head to Camp Fortune for year-round outdoor activities. Less than an hour away from downtown Ottawa is Parc Omega, a 12-kilometre self-drive safari where you can see and feed animals like deer, eld, bison and caribou.
Don’t forget to check out the Lusk Cave Trail. Just 45-minutes from downtown Ottawa, you’ll find yourself wandering below the earth’s surface in a cave that was formed over 12,500 years ago!
Shopping
Les Promenades Gatineau is the area’s largest shopping centre, where you’ll find major stores and restaurants. Head to the Hull neighbourhood to find artisanal goods.
Nightlife
You’ll find Casino du Lac-Leamy just a 15-minute drive from downtown Ottawa. With six different bars and shows, two restaurants and a large variety of games, Casino du Lac-Leamy is sure to provide you with an incredible nightlife experience.
Whether you’re looking for a sophisticated night out, fun entertainment or drinks with your friends, Gatineau has it all. Be sure to visit places like Ou Quoi, Taverne Montcalm and Bar le Whip.
Major annual events + sports
Gatineau is home to numerous annual events! Throughout the year, you can experience Gatineau Beerfest, Gatineau Hot Air Balloon Festival, Aero Gatineau-Ottawa, Winterlude, Gatineau Comedy Festival, Tour de Gatineau, Gatineau-Ottawa Bicycle Show, Ottawa Gatineau Tattoo Expo and more!
Check out Ottawa Tourism’s Event Calendar to stay in the know on all upcoming events.
Explore the Gatineau neighbourhood
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Spa and wellness highlights in Ottawa
From indoor/outdoor thermal therapy oases to unique treatments and calming activities in gorgeous settings, the Ottawa region offers ultimate relaxation options. -
Awesome autumn adventures and activities in Ottawa
Be adventurous while enjoying spectacular fall colours this fall in Ottawa by ziplining, caving, bungee jumping, flying, climbing, hiking, cycling, and more.
How to get there
Discover businesses in Gatineau
ALÉA Nightclub
Located in a spectacular structure overlooking the Casino Lac-Leamy gaming area, ALÉA is the destination nightclub par excellence to appreciate the best in nightlife.
Artisanelle
Shop for one-of-a-kind creations produced by Indigenous artisans including apparel, accessories, home decor and more.
Aventure Outaouais
Guided tour operator offering over 20 different all-inclusive experiences in the Outaouais region.
Banco Bistro
Located on the third level of the Casino Lac-Leamy, this outstanding restaurant offers an à la carte menu bursting with flavours and surprising choices.
Café Bouleau
Inclusive gathering place where you can enjoy Indigenous coffee, food, art, music and culture.
Camp Fortune
The entire family can enjoy outdoor activities at this year-round recreational resort just fifteen minutes north of downtown Ottawa in Gatineau Park.
Find more businesses on the Outaouais Tourism website.
Upcoming events in Gatineau
Aero Gatineau-Ottawa
Don’t miss this annual air show featuring awe-inspiring aerobatic displays, historically rich military aircraft and new aerospace technologies. Held…
Beaver Tales
Discover the legacy of the beaver, a Canadian icon for 50 years! From our nickels to national parks, the beaver is woven into Canadian life. Beaver…
BougeBouge Outaouais Festival
Get moving at the BougeBouge Outaouais Festival! Run 1km, 2km, 5km, or 10km, then enjoy a magic show, sports demos, and fun in the Youth, Zen, and…
Canadian Ski Marathon
Winter 2026, dates to be announced
Founded in 1966, this is North America’s oldest cross-country skiing event, taking place in the beautiful Outaouais region. Skiers of all ages and…
Christmas in Old Aylmer
Winter 2025, dates to be announced
Step into a winter wonderland and experience the magic of the holiday season at Christmas in Old Aylmer. Discover unique and handcrafted gifts at the…
Fall Rhapsody
Fall 2025, dates to be announced
Autumn is a special time to visit the Ottawa area while vibrant fall colours illuminate the city’s greenspaces and urban areas. Discover the magic of…
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