Page 54 - DreamScapes Magazine | Winter/Spring 2024

CITY SPOTLIGHT
Chasing Seasons IN
SHIFT GEARS FOR A CAPITAL CITY BREAK. IT’S A CLASSIC GETAWAY.
OTTAWA
BY FIONA TAPP
As the season transitions, Ottawa, our enchanting National Capital, seamlessly bridges the gap between winter’s icy embrace and spring’s vibrant renewal. Locals love to get outdoors and embrace the cold; after all, in winter, the city is one of the coldest capitals in the world and resi- dents have found endless ways to enjoy it. That explains why it hosts the annual Winterlude (February 2nd–19th, 2024), a free family-friendly festival dedicated to all things icy.
You can snowshoe, skate on the frozen Rideau Canal, and warm up with hot cocoa at cosy cafés around town. Or as spring blooms, watch how Ottawa emerges from the quiet beauty of winter ready to enjoy a season of bike rides, out- door markets and the world-famous Canadian Tulip Festival.
Come for a romantic city break or bring the whole crew for a family vacation in Ottawa. No matter the weather or season you’ll find activities aplenty.
SKATE THE CANAL
The world’s largest naturally frozen skating rink comes to life each winter in the capital. The Rideau Canal Skateway stretches for 7.8 kilometres and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Typically open from January to early March (weather- dependent), huts line the canal where you can change into your skates. Prepare to glide along the ice or stick to strolling along the pathways and enjoy the frozen canal views from above.
If you’re feeling the cold, head inside for family fun at Funhaven, where you’ll find amusements, bumper cars and Ottawa’s only rollercoaster! Older kids will enjoy a challenge at Escape Manor on Elgin, where you can choose from a
54 DREAMSCAPES WINTER/SPRING 2024
PHOTOS: OTTAWA TOURISM | CANADIAN MUSEUM OF NATURE/MARTIN LIPMAN | OTTAWA TOURISM/TAKU KUMABE