Best of Ottawa: 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 hotels, live music venues, local brews, bands and more. Check, share and discuss #OLMBest every week!

Fairmont Chateau Laurier

Ottawa’s very own castle is perfect for stunning photographs and as well as enjoying a nice stay. The location is a great place for a royalty inspired photoshoot with friends!
Photo: Tripadvisor via Management

Oat Couture Oatmeal Cafe

This oatmeal inspired cafe is the perfect place to stage an impromptu photo shoot with friends! While enjoying their delicious oat products, make sure to take a cute photo with their swinging chairs by the window.
Photo: Emily Montgomery via Google Photos

Princess Louise Falls

Princess Louise Falls is located in Ottawa and is a stunning site. Loved by photographers and nature lovers alike, the Princess Louise Falls offers a magical experience in all seasons. These hidden falls will make you feel like you’re in another country.
Photo: Marek Orszanski via Google Photos

Mer Bleue

This nature conservatory features tall grasses and wooden paths for a fun and relaxing nature walk. Though Mer Bleue is beautiful all year long, the fall season our favourite time to visit. With the trees in orange and red hues, Mer Bleue makes a stunning Instagram post.
Photo: Jason Chenier via TripAdvisor

Feleena’s

This brightly coloured Bank Street restaurant is a fun place to take cute photos with friends. The patio area is decorated with beautiful fairy lights, colourful tables, chairs and fire places.
Photo: Conor Major via Google Photos

Rideau Canal

As one of Ottawa’s oldest historic sites, the Rideau Canal is visited by many people from around the world. The canal is an exciting place to visit with friends, even in the winter or on a cool fall evening. It looks great no matter the ligh level. Head to the canal for a relaxing stroll and take some photos along the way.
Photo: OLM Staff

Carbide Willson Ruins

Located just outside of Ottawa, these ruins are remnants of another time. Perfect to stop by when going for a hike, the Carbide Willson Ruins are a must see! Check out this area in all seasons for an exciting experience.
Photo: Steve Lafond via Google images

Watson’s Mill

In the small town of Manotick, located on the outskirts of Ottawa, the Watson’s Mill is an old mill turned museum. While you can learn how the process of creating flour, the building itself is a stunning piece of architecture.
Photo: John Sisson via Google Images

Tomo Restaurant

Known for it’s excellent Japanese food, Tomo Restaurant boasts beautiful murals, paintings and interior design. This restaurant has an extensive menu of Japanese cuisine and is a popular choice for lunch and dinner. Don’t forget to check out the bathroom with a manga wall!
Photo: Michelle Reynolds via Google photos

Ottawa Urban Art

Public Art in Ottawa has never been better. Look for beautifully painted murals in Westoboro, Centretown, the Glebe, the ByWard Market or whatever neighbourhood you find yourself in. This great urban art by Dan Metcalfe and Pat Buck can be found in the Glebe, in an alleyway off of Bank Street between Third and Fourth Avenues.
Photo: Caroline Ross