Top post-move activities in Ottawa

During the haste of moving, rarely anyone has time to think about what they will do once moving is over. If you are amidst moving but are thinking about exploring the new city – congratulations! You are very organized, teaming up with relocation companies Canada residents trust, or are just curious to explore! And no matter the place you move to, as a newcomer, everything will be interesting. Fortunately, Ottawa offers numerous ways to unwind, enjoy nature, and explore local culture. To help ease the search, we’ve rounded up the top post-move activities in Ottawa. After all, connecting with your new surroundings is key to feeling at home.

What do people usually need after a move?

After a move, everyone adjusts differently. Some jump into the local scene, visiting nearby cafes or exploring shops, ready to make connections and build friendships. Others may prefer a quiet approach, choosing a peaceful walk in a park or finding a cozy spot to read, letting the new setting settle in slowly. If you miss familiar routines, visiting favorite types of places—a gym, museum, or art studio—can feel grounding. Ottawa offers many ways to find this comfort, from quiet gardens to lively markets, helping new residents feel at home, no matter their style.

The top post-move activities in Ottawa require you to leave your home, which you might not feel like doing.

What are the must-visit places in Ottawa?

Below are some of the top post-move activities in Ottawa that will let you experience local culture, sights, and flavors firsthand. This list includes everything from historic landmarks to lively markets and scenic walks, offering something for every newcomer. If you’re adjusting to your new space, remember that relocation services Canada residents use can make it simpler to find the time and energy to explore. These must-visit spots will help you get to know Ottawa, whether you’re with family, friends, or flying solo.

ByWard Market

ByWard Market, Ottawa’s oldest and most lively neighborhood, gives new residents a real taste of the city. Located downtown, this pedestrian-friendly area is full of boutiques, cafes, and restaurants. You might not feel like walking after moving, even if you did so with the help of long distance moving companies Canada residents recommend, but trust us, it will be worth it!

The Market offers flavors from around the world, with cozy spots like Happy Goat Coffee Company and fine dining at Play Food & Wine or Side Door, making it a top spot for food lovers. Its cobblestone streets, historic architecture, and artisan shops set the stage for an amazing arts scene. Street performers, murals, and art installations bring life to every corner.

This market is a great place to visit if you want to walk.

The National Gallery of Canada

Art lovers will find endless inspiration at the National Gallery of Canada, which you had probably heard about even before you decided to hire one of the cross country moving companies Canada residents rely on and moved to Ottawa. Located near the previously mentioned ByWard Market, this architectural marvel features a striking glass-and-granite design by Moshe Safdie and houses over 40,000 works by 6,000 creators.

As you step inside, begin with Maman, the iconic 30-foot spider sculpture by Louise Bourgeois. Within its walls, explore a rich variety of Canadian art, from ancient Indigenous artifacts to paintings by the Group of Seven and modern Inuit sculptures. The Gallery also has impressive collections of European, Asian, and international art, alongside rotating world-class exhibits.

Beyond art, the Gallery offers surprising experiences. Discover the ethereal Rideau Street Chapel with its enchanting recorded choir voices, or find tranquility in the serene Garden Court.

Outdoors, Kìwekì Point provides panoramic views of Ottawa and Gatineau, complete with unique installations like Roxy Paine’s towering sculpture, One Hundred Foot Line.

Rideau Canal

For a peaceful day, take a walk along the Rideau Canal, one of Ottawa’s most scenic areas. This UNESCO World Heritage Site combines history, nature, and outdoor fun, stretching from Ottawa to Kingston and Lake Ontario.

Built initially for defense, the canal is now a welcoming place for locals and visitors alike. In warm months, the canal’s pathways are perfect for walking, jogging, or cycling, with trees and benches lining the way. Boating, canoeing, or kayaking lets you enjoy the historic locks operated by Parks Canada.

When winter arrives, the canal transforms into the world’s largest skating rink, ideal for new residents experiencing Ottawa’s winters. With snowshoeing and cross-country skiing nearby, the canal offers something each season. Whether you’re walking, paddling, or skating, the Rideau Canal is one of the top post-move activities in Ottawa, providing a peaceful escape and a sense of community.

This canal transforms with the seasons.

Parliament Hill

Parliament Hill is essential to explore for anyone moving from Winnipeg to Ottawa who wants to explore Canadian history in the country’s capital. The neo-Gothic buildings, standing proudly on a hill above the Ottawa River, reveal Canada’s history and government. With the Centre Block closed for renovations, the House of Commons now meets in a glass-roofed chamber within the West Block, while the Senate convenes in a beautiful Beaux-Arts building, once a train station, nearby.

A guided tour lets you step inside these historic spaces, watching where Canada’s leaders work.

In summer, the East Block opens, with rooms restored to their 1800s appearance.

You can also catch the Changing of the Guard, a ceremony cherished by locals and visitors alike. Dropping by “the Hill” means you might enjoy free concerts or shows throughout the year. For newcomers, Parliament Hill offers one of the top post-move activities in Ottawa, grounding you in the city’s heritage and giving you a sense of place.

The Canadian Museum of History

Across the river in Gatineau, the Canadian Museum of History invites new Ottawa residents to explore Canada’s past. This stunning museum presents the people, events, and artifacts that have shaped the country.

In the Grand Hall, marvel at the world’s largest indoor collection of totem poles, set against a breathtaking view of Parliament Hill. The First Peoples Hall celebrates Indigenous traditions and achievements, while the Canadian History Hall showcases Canada’s most comprehensive exhibit, revealing diverse stories and perspectives across centuries.

For families, the museum offers the Canadian Children’s Museum, where interactive exhibits bring history to life for young explorers. At CINÉ+, enjoy thrilling 2D and 3D films on a massive screen, adding another layer to the experience. With temporary exhibits bringing fresh stories from Canada and around the world, this museum has something for everyone. If you’ve settled in with help from a long distance moving company Ottawa offers, this museum is the perfect place to deepen your connection with Canada’s culture and history.

This museum is a real hit, no matter the age.

The Canadian War Museum

The Canadian War Museum gives a profound view of Canada’s military history. Here, artifacts, personal stories, photos, and interactive displays bring the country’s role in conflicts and peacekeeping missions to life. Some exhibits are unforgettable: Hitler’s armored car, Sir Isaac Brock’s red coat with a bullet hole from the Battle of Queenston Heights, and a teddy bear sent by a young girl to her father in World War I.

Architect Raymond Moriyama designed the museum with meaning. Its energy-efficient design includes a green roof where poppies grow each summer and recycled materials throughout.

In Memorial Hall, a single window illuminates the Unknown Soldier’s headstone each Remembrance Day at 11 a.m., marking a powerful moment.

For new residents, visiting the Canadian War Museum is one of the top post-move activities in Ottawa, offering a quiet space to connect deeply with Canada’s history and resilience.

Join Ottawa’s top post-move activities and vibrant festivals

For newcomers wanting to connect with Ottawa’s community, the city’s festivals are a perfect way to dive in. All year, these events bring people together with music, art, and celebrations. Some of the most popular follow:

• In winter, Winterlude turns Ottawa into a snowy wonderland, full of ice sculptures, outdoor games, and activities for families.
• During summer, the Ottawa International Jazz Festival fills the city with music, showcasing talent from around the world.
• Canada Day marks Ottawa’s biggest celebration, with parades, performances, and fireworks lighting up the capital.
• In the fall, even more seasonal events await. Oh Canada, Eh!? runs from September to December, offering a Canadian-themed theater filled with humor and charm.
• The One World Bazaar brings unique global crafts to Ottawa from September to November.
• FrightFest and Pumpkins After Dark add Halloween thrills with spooky displays and glowing pumpkin sculptures.
• Music fans can enjoy the Ontario Festival of Small Halls, which brings live performances to cozy venues from October to December.
• The Day of the Dead Festival (November 1-3) celebrates Mexican culture with colorful altars, food, and music
• The Ottawa Canadian Film Festival (November 7-9) highlights Canadian cinema.
• In November, the European Union Film Festival screens films from across Europe, giving audiences a taste of international stories.

For new residents, these festivals offer some of the top post-move activities in Ottawa, bringing you closer to the city’s vibrant energy and making Ottawa feel like home.

There is always a festival to look forward to in Ottawa.

Spend a day outdoors in Ottawa’s scenic parks

Ottawa has beautiful parks that offer newcomers peaceful green spaces right in the city. Near ByWard Market, Major’s Hill Park provides open lawns, perfect for picnics and casual strolls with views of Parliament. Just across the river, Gatineau Park is an escape with trails, lakes, and lookouts, ideal for hiking in summer and snowshoeing in winter.

For family outings, Andrew Haydon Park along the Ottawa River offers picnic areas, ponds, and views of sailboats at the marina. Britannia Park has a sandy beach, swimming, and shaded picnic spots, making it a top choice in summer. Claudette Cain Park features peaceful paths and views of the Rideau River, great for quiet walks. Mooney’s Bay Beach and Park brings together a sandy beach, volleyball courts, and picnic areas, popular in warm weather. Stuemer Park on Petrie Island has sandy beaches and wetland views, ideal for nature lovers. Walter Baker Park includes walking paths, sports fields, and open spaces, perfect for both relaxation and recreation.

Enjoy delicious food in Ottawa

Ottawa’s dining scene has something for every taste and dietary need. For plant-based enthusiasts, Pure Kitchen crafts creative vegetarian and vegan dishes from fresh, seasonal ingredients. Those craving Mediterranean flavors will find Fairouz Café perfect, offering Middle Eastern-inspired dishes with vegan and gluten-free options in a welcoming setting. If seafood is your choice, The Whalesbone stands out with its sustainable options and gluten-free choices. For an elevated experience, Atelier delights with a multi-course tasting menu that can be customized for dietary needs. Fans of Italian cuisine will love Giulia, where gluten-free and dairy-free options are available in a chic atmosphere. Corner Peach serves seasonal, locally sourced comfort food and caters to both vegetarians and omnivores.

Staying home is also perfectly acceptable

For introverts who may prefer staying in over exploring right away, easing into a new home is a natural choice. Moving can feel overwhelming, so it’s completely normal to crave the comfort of your own space before stepping out. Creating a cozy home can help you settle in and feel more connected to Ottawa.

Try visiting The Gifted Type for candles and small decor items that bring a calm, comforting vibe.

For a good book, Perfect Books on Elgin Street offers a carefully chosen selection, while Octopus Books in the Glebe has unique finds for book lovers.

To add extra warmth, Zone on Sussex Drive has cozy blankets and beautiful accents.

By making your space feel inviting, you can feel more grounded and at home, ready to embrace Ottawa at your own pace. Taking small steps to create comfort is a perfect way to start feeling at ease in your new surroundings.

It is also perfectly fine to only want to stay at home.

Which one of these top post-move activities in Ottawa will you visit first?

Ottawa’s warm spirit and wide range of activities make it a wonderful place to call home. Whether you’re drawn to history, the arts, or nature, Ottawa has something for everyone. Try these top post-move activities in Ottawa to settle in smoothly, and soon you’ll feel like a true local, ready to dive into all this city has to offer.