downtown Ottawa in the summer

Things to Do in Downtown Ottawa in the Summer

Since Ottawa is the capital city, many think that all there is to do is visit museums and government buildings, but there’s so much more out there to explore!

With the luscious green grass and warm weather, Ottawa is a great place to be in the summer. Aside from the main attractions like visiting Parliament Hill and the Byward Museum, there are loads of underrated fun activities you’ll love.

From festival-filled streets and overflowing lively markets, you can spend the entire season and not run out of things to do. Whether you’re new to the city or simply have not found the time to go out and explore, below are a handful of exciting attractions you and your loved ones can enjoy.

Spend the Day at Hogs Back Falls

If you told someone that there’s an entire waterfall hidden in the city, they wouldn't believe you, but it’s true!

Hog’s Back Falls is one of Ottawa’s hidden gems. Also known as Prince of Whales Falls, the park is composed of a series of waterfalls along the Rideau River and several heritage locations that include a pavilion with historical displays.

The park also features various hiking trails and walking paths, along with picnic tables and a concession stand. You can easily spend a day at Hogs Back Falls, enjoying a nice picnic with a view after your hike.

Rafting, Paddling on the Ottawa River

On hot summer days, nothing beats getting soaked during a paddling trip on the Ottawa River.

Some of the world's best whitewater action can be found just a few minutes outside the city’s centre. Float along an urban section of the river, or for those craving an adrenaline rush, try out a fun tubing experience.

There’s no need to worry if you don’t have your own equipment, as many outfitters and marinas rent out canoes, paddle boats, and kayaks.

Explore the City by Bike

With over 800 kilometres of recreational pathways wrapped around the city, there are plenty of cycling opportunities to be taken advantage of.

Grab your bike and plan your adventure, or rent one and take a guided tour exploring the capital's most beautiful spots. To make the most of your day, plan to stop for a refreshing drink and locally made refreshments, which there is plenty of downtown. If you’re looking to try new, diverse foods, you can’t go wrong with the Byward market.

Experience Ottawa in All Its Summer Glory

Whether you’re new to Ottawa or are thinking of starting a new chapter in a new apartment, we’ve got you covered.

With over 7,000 apartment listings your dream apartment is closer than you think. Our experts will gladly take care of the heavy lifting, all you’ll have to do is tell us what you want and leave the rest up to us.

If you’re thinking about moving to Ottawa or want a change of scenery, get in touch with us today to learn more about our available apartments.


5 Spring Cleaning Tips for Apartments

As the weather gets warmer and the grass greener, it’s time to say goodbye to all the winter clutter lying around your home.

Though it may seem like having a smaller apartment means less cleaning will be required, there are many small things people overlook when tidying their apartment.

So, what should you put on your spring cleaning list of areas to tackle? Below are some simple tips and tricks that’ll help you achieve an organized, clutter-free space in time for you to enjoy the seasons ahead.

Make a Plan

Having a set of guidelines helps us navigate our daily tasks while optimizing our time.

Thinking of all the tasks you’d like to accomplish during your spring cleaning can easily become overwhelming, discouraging you from getting the job done.

Schedule a day for each room, making sure to include break times in between cleaning so that you’re not exhausted by the end of the day.

Start by Decluttering

While decluttering involves tossing things away or donating them, a big part of the process relies on organization.

Space management in small apartments is key, which is why everything deemed unuseful should be disposed of accordingly. If you stumble upon an item you can’t remember the last time it was used, it’s probably best to put it in the donate pile.

Once you’ve decided on what items to keep, make sure they have a dedicated space and a purpose.

Clean the Blinds and Curtains

Famously known for collecting dust and other allergens, window coverings are an often overlooked chore.

Though it may not seem like a priority, cleaning your blinds or curtains is an essential part of spring cleaning, as dirty curtains spread harmful particles that affect indoor air quality.

Not only will you be removing any harmful allergens but you’ll end up with sparkling clean windows that’ll make your apartment feel like a completely different space.

Organize and Clean Your Cabinets

Although it may be time-consuming, cleaning your kitchen and bathroom cabinets is well worth the effort.

To ensure the cabinets are properly cleaned, clear out everything from the space and wipe down the surfaces using a damp microfiber towel.

This is also a good time to get rid of the items hiding in the back of the cabinets that are taking up precious space and have no real use.

Clean Your Floors

A big mistake many homeowners make when cleaning their floors is forgetting to wipe off tabletops, countertops, and other elevated surfaces.

Only once all the debris and dust are on the floor should you begin to vacuum. Be sure to thoroughly vacuum any carpets and rugs, as they store a lot of dirt and grime.

Find Your Dream Ottawa Apartment

There’s no better way to welcome spring than with a clean and inviting living space.

Spring cleaning is the perfect opportunity to reset everything in your home, whether that means finally getting to the chores you’ve been putting off or scheduling maintenance appointments.

With over 8,000 great apartments to choose from, your dream apartment is just a click away. Our team at Paramount Properties works hard to surpass your expectations for quality and lifestyle.


Things to Do in Downtown Ottawa in the Springtime

The start of the new season is just days away, meaning it’s time to trade your winter gear for more spring-appropriate clothing and make your way outdoors.

There are plenty of fun activities and places to discover in Ottawa year-round, spring being no exception. The green grass peeking through melted snow is enough to put everyone in a cheerful mood and have them looking forward to spending hours by the lake or sipping colourful drinks on patios.

With nearly all covid restrictions lifted, there’s no better time to go out and explore the city in its springtime glow.

Visit Parliament Hill

Whether you’re interested in learning more about Canadian history or simply want to admire the beautiful ancient architecture, Parliament Hill is a must-see attraction in the heart of Ottawa.

The grounds are much more than artfully designed government buildings. Statues, great views, and other significant points of interest can be found as you wander around.

Grab a bite to eat from one of many restaurants in the area or get some take-out and have a picnic on the luscious green grass facing the peace tower.

Explore the Byward Market

Hungry? In search of cute souvenirs? The Byward Market has anything and everything you’re looking for.

From boutique shops and artisan crafts to local restaurants and lively clubs, you can spend the entire day exploring the market and experiencing the downtown nightlife. No matter your dietary needs or preferences there are countless options to choose from.

Check out the National Gallery of Canada

When walking through downtown, you may have noticed a giant metal statue of a spider standing in front of a glass building.

Located near the Rideau River and Byward Market, the dazzling glass building is home to amazing art pieces created by Canadian and international artists that have been carefully collected over decades.

An inner courtyard and cafe are located onsite for you to take a break and relax before heading to your next destination.

Take a Cycling Tour Around Ottawa

With nearly 800 kilometres of multi-use pathways around the Ottawa region, you can go practically anywhere with a bike.

Rent a bike or join a guided tour to explore some of the city’s most scenic places and attractions. You’ll be able to bike alongside the canal and through backroads of charming neighbourhoods, showing you the best Ottawa has to offer in a short period of time.

Looking For an Apartment in Ottawa?

With the snow melting and the sun shining high above, spring has finally reached Canada's capital.

The weather can greatly impact the success of your move, as you don’t want to be lifting boxes in the heat of summer or on wintery cold days. Not to mention, you’ll be all settled to relax and enjoy the wonderful summer months.

Get in touch with Ottawa Apartments to learn more about our available apartments. We work hard to maintain our reputation for providing unbeatable value, safety, and cleanliness in the city’s more sought-after locations.


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