Best of Ottawa 2021: Insta Worthy spots

After over 20-years writing about life in Ottawa, we think we have a pretty good idea of the best of what this city has to offer. In this weekly series, we share our picks with you — our top spots for takeout, live music venues, local brews, bands and more. Check, share and discuss #OLMBest every week!

Champlain Lookout

Champlain Pkwy, Luskville, Quebec

The Champlain Lookout is stunning, especially in the fall. The Lookout is located atop the Eardley Escarpment, and is one of the most popular spots in the Gatineau Park.
Photo: Samantha F via Alltrails

Flora Footbridge

467 Echo Dr, Ottawa

Used for cycling and pedestrians, the Flora Footbridge spans the Rideau Canal and connects Old Ottawa East to the Glebe. The bridge overlooks the Canal and makes for a scenic place to take a stroll—keep your cameras ready!
Photo: OLM Staff

Nordik Spa-Nature

16 Chemin Nordik, Chelsea, QC

A local favourite, Nordik Spa is a beautiful spa located just north of Ottawa. With their stunning outdoor space, chalets and cottages, Nordik is the place to spend a relaxing day or even a whole weekend. Don’t forget to take some photos.
Photo: Nordik Spa via Facebook

Ottawa Sign

6 York St, Ottawa

Loved by tourists and locals alike, the Ottawa sign is a trendy location—perfect for snapping pictures and making memories. Grab one of the Muskoka chairs, sit down and relax for a while or sit and watch the tourists.
Photo: OLM Staff

Princess Louise Falls

St Joseph Blvd, Ottawa

A waterfall is an escape from the city, even when it's located in smack in the middle of the suburbs. Princess Louise Falls will transport you to another world. Don’t forget to take lots of photos—this is a place you’re going to want to remember!
Photo: Gord Collins for https://waterfallsofontario.com/

Ottawa River Cruise

Paul's Boatline

See Ottawa landmarks from a different perspective aboard a Paul's Boatline Ottawa River cruise. Great photo locations include, the eight lock stations that lift boats up from the Rideau River up to the canal, the Rideau Falls, and the view of Parliament Hill. 

The National Art Gallery

380 Sussex Dr, Ottawa

The National Art Gallery is home to an impressive collection of Canadian art. In the square out front, Louise Bourgeois’s giant spider sculpture, Maman, makes a great photo backdrop or if you are there during sunset, the natural light from the setting sun combines with the ambient light to create a stunning visual.

Watson’s Mill

5525 Dickinson St, Manotick 

The historic flour mill located in the village of Manotick is a picturesque building — great for photos in the fall and summer months. Watson’s Mill offers building tours where you can even purchase the flour they produce.
Photo: Sofia Donato

Ottawa Public Art

various locations

The City of Ottawa has a growing collection of public art including the latest addition courtesy of the Embassy of Belgium in Canada. Find this stunning mural entitled “Peace Flowers” at Lansdowne Park or look for the other 170 public art pieces at Library branches, community centres, parks, playgrounds, employment centres, or transit stations across Ottawa. 
Photo: OLM Staff 

Museum of Nature

240 McLeod St, Ottawa

Known for its unique architecture and exciting exhibitions the Museum of Nature makes a great background for a photo shoot. Check out the dinosaurs in the Fossil Gallery or the dioramas in the Mammal Gallery. There are so many spots to take great pics . . . and you'll learn something new too!
Photo: nature.ca