Experience Ottawa’s vibrant queer scene—fun, inclusive, and unforgettable!
As Canada’s capital, many key Canadian landmarks call Ottawa home: Parliament, seven national museums, the historic Rideau Canal and maybe, most important of all, Shane Hollander.
Heated Rivalry, the breakout adaptation of Rachel Reid’s novels, has taken Ottawa (and the world) by storm, with plenty of loons now eyeing a visit to Shane Hollander’s hometown.
If you find yourself longing for The Cottage, Ottawa is ready to deliver.
This guide brings together recommendations from fans of the series, ideas shared on Ottawa Tourism’s Threads account and the very best of what makes Canada’s capital such a welcoming place for queer visitors and allies alike.
Crack open a ginger ale, grab a burger, stop by the boy aquarium or lace up your own skates in Canada’s capital. Ottawa in summer has its own rhythm and yes, there may be an unusually high number of loons around — both the feathered kind and Heated Rivalry fans living out their main character energy.
Essential guides to exploring Ottawa
If The Cottage was the first you’ve heard of Ottawa… start with these guides and explore Ottawa’s restaurants, tours, and the local queer scene.
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A guide to Ottawa’s best restaurants and culinary experiences
Take a culinary journey through the best food and drink experiences in Canada’s capital including award-winning restaurants, tours, events and more! -
Ottawa tours: bus, bike, walking & boat experiences
Explore Ottawa with guided tours by bus, bike, foot, or boat. See Parliament Hill, join a hop-on hop-off sightseeing tour, take historic walking tours, or cruise the Rideau Canal.
Add these spots to your Heated Rivalry-inspired itinerary
Stroked Ego
One-stop shop for fashion accessories, personal grooming and fashionable clothing all geared towards the modern man.
Ottawa Art Gallery
Located in Ottawa's downtown core, the Ottawa Art Gallery (OAG) is situated on traditional Anishinābe Aki and is Ottawa’s municipal art gallery and cultural hub. Admission is always free!
BeaverTails
A uniquely Canadian tradition, hand-made Beavertail pastries are served up with a variety of toppings at special events throughout the year and at the permanent kiosk in the ByWard Market.
More to explore in Shane Hollander’s hometown
Queer-owned businesses in Ottawa
Here are some of the amazing queer-owned businesses in Ottawa to help you celebrate Pride month.
Local bookstores you need to visit in Ottawa
Learn more about the local Ottawa bookstores that offer both new and used books.
A Taste of Canadiana in Ottawa
If you’re looking for an authentic Canadian experience on the go, Ottawa’s ByWard Market neighbourhood is not to be missed. The ByWard Market is one…
Top outdoor places to photograph in Ottawa this winter
Discover some of the best places to take outdoor photos this winter season in Ottawa, including snowy scenes and beautiful sights.
Best ice skating experiences in Ottawa
Explore the national capital region's skating experiences, skate rental options, amenities and more.
Where to see animals in Ottawa
Looking for something fun to do with the kids during your stay in Canada’s Capital? Head out to see some of the cuddly, exotic and even creepy…
Heated Rivalry events to spice up your trip to Ottawa
Heated Rivalry Night
Presented by MODO-LIVE, The Bronson, and Hot 89.9, Heated Rivalry Night transforms The Bronson into a high-energy dance party inspired by the world of…
Heated Rivalry Rave Dance Party @ Sky Lounge
Experience the energy of the Heated Rivalry Dance Party, a night celebrating vibrant queer culture, pop music, and themed rivalry on the dance floor…
Heated Spring Break: Dance Party ☆
Glimmering Dolls presents a Heated Rivalry themed dance party celebrating queer culture, pop music, and fan driven nightlife experiences. Hosted at…
Iconic and queer-friendly places to stay in Ottawa
reStays Ottawa
Revel in upscale amenities and unparalleled views of downtown Ottawa while staying in a spacious, short-term rental apartment in this exclusive building.
Le Germain Hotel Ottawa
Overlooking the Ottawa Art Gallery and next to the CF Rideau Centre retail complex, this elegant 115-room hotel is a luxurious oasis near the ByWard Market area.
Andaz Ottawa ByWard Market
Sip cocktails in a sleek rooftop bar overlooking the city, then relax in a spacious guest room with a uniquely Canadian vibe.
Fairmont Château Laurier
Stay at the Fairmont Château Laurier hotel, one of Ottawa’s best-known historical landmarks, which overlooks Parliament Hill and the Rideau Canal.
