Top 10 Dating Spots in Ottawa

Who says Ottawa’s where fun went to die? There are a lot of great things to, especially on a date.

Here are some of my favourites for any budget:

1. Botanical Gardens & Arboretum (Prince of Wales Drive)

Nothing is more romantic than a walk among the trees and flowers at the Experimental Farm.  You could walk for hours without even noticing it.  Created in Victorian times when gardens were all the rage, the Gardens and Arboretum have become one of Ottawa’s premiere romantic spots.  On any given weekend in the summer you will see wedding couples taking pictures surrounded by the blooming flowers and trees.  The gardens and arboretum are definitely peaceful spots great for getting to know your date.  Make sure you wear comfortable shoes.

2. Oh So Good (25 York St. or 261 Richmond Rd.)

Save room for dessert, because this is THE place to indulge in sweets. Miss Betty Crocker herself couldn’t describe the variety or quality of their cakes and pies! Do yourself and your date a favor and order yourself a slice of Devil’s Food cake or some Coconut Cream pie, sit back and enjoy the local art that lines the walls.

3. Gelato at Stella Luna (1103 Bank Street)

Can’t take your date on a Roman holiday? Here’s the next best thing! Boasting of some of the best Gelatos and Coffees this side of the Atlantic, Stella Luna’s romantic atmosphere definitely will help you woo your date.  My personal favourite would have to be the Affogato (espresso with a scoop of gelato) or try their signature flavour Chocolate, Dark Rum & Wild Cherries or their Chili Chocolate or their Pistachio … OK you get the picture. Whatever you choose promises to be YUMMY!! Trust me, a visit to Stella Luna will impress even your most discerning date.

4. Moscow Tea Room (527 Sussex Dr.)

The latest classy installment in Ottawa’s Byward Market, the Moscow Tea Room takes it to another level. They boast “award winning teas, small plates, pastries, charcuterie & cheeses, vodka, craft cocktails, champagne & caviar all within a sumptuous décor filled with art” and they don’t disappoint. If you want to impress your date, this is definitely the place to take them! I’ll be there sipping on my “Red Square” cocktail ;), join me?

5. The Rideau Canal

Since 1832, the Rideau Canada connects the city of Ottawa on the Ottawa River to the city of Kingston Lake Ontario. Any time of year this UNESCO World Heritage Site is a real gem.  In the winter you could skate on the Canal and take in the Winterlude activities (including admiring the many ice sculptures).  The Skateway is 7.8 kilometres long, and begins just steps from Canada’s Parliament Buildings. Stop along the way for a Beavertail and Hot Chocolate.  In the summer you can walk along the canal and watch the boats at the locks.

6. Fraser Cafe (7 Springfield Rd.)

This is one gem you don’t want to miss!! Their menu is simple, with seasonal and local ingredients, but delicious! It’s a really nice fun atmosphere and the service is great. If you’re feeling adventurous try the “chef’s surprise”! Share the made to order doughnuts for a romantic finish to your dinner. If you have a day date, this is also a great place for brunch. You definitely can’t go wrong with Fraser Cafe!

7. Fat Tuesday’s (62 York St.)

This spot can get LOUD! But oh, is it worth it! They’ve got fantastic food, a large cocktail list and… wait for it… a duelling piano band. Fat Tuesday’s definitely isn’t for the faint of heart but if you’re looking to have a more lively time with your date, check out this resto-bar and let loose with a staff who will sing and dance just as much as you do! Is your date your happily ever after? See what the future holds while getting your palm read by their in-house palm reader!

8. 10Fourteen Wine Bar (1014 Wellington Street West)

10Fourteen provides a warm, open, and cheerful space to unwind after a hectic day – what better place to meet up for a drink with a date? It’s not only affordable, it’s a positive community environment that definitely makes you feel at home. That makes for a GREAT date location, especially a first date.

9. Hog’s Back Park (Hog’s Back Road)

Hog’s Back Park in overlooks the Hog’s Back Falls on the Rideau River.  Bring your comfortable shoes and take a stroll through the park and enjoy its natural beauty, especially the views of Hog’s Back Falls and the Rideau River.  Nature walking at it’s best! Hog’s Back Park is also a great place for an afternoon romantic picnic, bring your own or buy something at the concession stand.

10. Ottawa-Gatineau National Museums

Take in an exhibit and learn something new … it will give you some very interesting things to talk about! Thursdays are free and open late.  Check out the list and links here for more detailed descriptions of the various museums and exhibits to see what you would be interested in.

These are just some of our favourites but there are so many things to do in Ottawa with your date and it really doesn’t have to break the bank!  Readers, what are some of your favourites?

For more information about my great city of Ottawa, Canada check out the National Capital Commission.

Your Sister in Dating Bliss,

Single Dating Diva

Copyright Single Dating Diva

A version of this post originally appeared on the Wink Wisely blog.