The Ultimate Master Sheet for Dating in Ottawa (Strategies for Securing Dates Recommended Venues, and More!)
Cupid called and he told me the love of your life might just be in Ottawa! However, they won’t just fall miraculously into your lap; you have to look for them.
I know, I know, it sounds like a wild goose chase, but lucky you, I’m right here – ready to guide you through Ottawa’s dating scene. I’ve got the inside scoop on where to go and what to do!
My credentials? Well, I’ve survived more awkward first dates than I can count – think of it as someone’s twisted version of exposure therapy!
One thing I’ve learned is that dating doesn’t have to be scary or nerve-wracking (though I get the jitters too from time to time!). After all, the best connections often come when you’re having a blast and embracing the journey.
With this master sheet, you’ll be ready for anything the Ottawa dating scene throws your way. What you have now in your hands is the ultimate tool to make your dating adventures in the city smooth and successful. Now go and make Cupid proud!
Dating Culture in Ottawa
The dating culture in Ottawa is more relaxed, with a preference for profound conversations. People appreciate genuine connections over gaudy displays of affection or superficial interactions.
A lot of locals like going on a date while strolling at the park, going on a picnic at a beach, and attending events where getting to know someone unfolds naturally.
How to Meet People in Ottawa
You can meet people in Ottawa through dating sites or apps, speed dating, workshops and classes, or interest-based clubs.
Meeting people no matter where you are requires a bit of courage. I myself have a hard time striking up a conversation with a stranger in the street even though people in the city are known to be quite friendly.
However, looking for activities or events where you can naturally engage in a conversation with someone makes the challenge a lot less nerve-wracking.
It’s all about finding common ground, which helps break the ice and makes interactions feel more organic. By focusing on shared interests, you’ll find that connections come more effortlessly.
Picture this: you’re at a meetup with fellow members of your cycling club. It’s so much easier to introduce yourself or to strike up a conversation rather than with some stranger on the street, right?
Below, I give my in-depth recommendations for great activities where you can meet people and have meaningful conversations.
Dating Sites and Apps
Dating apps allow you to connect with potential matches without the pressure of face-to-face interaction from the get-go.
They give you the chance to get to know someone a bit before deciding to meet in person, making the process feel more comfortable.
Having already exchanged some details, you’re more likely to have something to talk about when you finally meet face-to-face.
However, it’s crucial to stay safe and let your friends or family know your location when meeting up with a date, especially the first time. After all, it never hurts to be extra sure!
Ultimately, you have to use dating apps with a blend of optimism and caution. Enjoy the process of meeting new people and discovering potential connections, but always prioritize your safety and well-being.
Now that’s out of the way, here are the top dating sites in Ottawa where you can easily meet people with just a swipe.
1. Hinge
— Media credit: hinge
Website: https://hinge.co/
Hinge’s enticing tagline, “designed to be deleted”, will surely make you go and download it immediately. While it’s like any other app where there’s no guarantee that you’ll meet your potential match, one thing’s for sure – Hinge is fun!
The app’s unique features, such as prompts and the ability to comment on specific parts of a profile, make it engaging and interactive.
Because of its focus on meaningful conversations, a lot of locals have been saying that this app is ideal for long-term relationships.
If that sounds like what you’re looking for, then Hinge might just be worth the try!
2. Bumble
— Media credit: bumble
Website: https://bumble.com/
Bumble is a fun and unique dating app that puts a twist on traditional online dating.
It’s mainly designed to empower women by giving them control over initiating conversations. This approach encourages more thoughtful and meaningful connections from the start.
For cis-hetero relationships, the woman has to make the first move on their match. If she doesn’t do so within 24 hours, the match will expire, ending the possibility of connecting with the person.
Meanwhile, queer matches allow both parties to strike up a conversation first, but it needs to be within the 24-hour timeframe too.
This yellow app snagged me more dates than I can count, and you know what? This might be a sign for you to download it yourself!
Speed Dating
Speed dating is such an easy way to meet new people face-to-face. One of its biggest advantages is that it takes the pressure off since everyone is there with the same goal: to connect with potential romantic partners!
The structured format makes it easy to engage in brief but meaningful conversations. Plus, it’s a fun way to break the ice and discover new connections in a relaxed environment.
No need for awkward small talk or the “Do they like me?” dance just to know if the other person is interested in making a connection.
If things don’t go well, a.k.a. you didn’t meet “the one”, don’t fret – that’s totally normal! Just try again.
Keep an open mind and enjoy the process of meeting new people. Sometimes, the best connections happen when you least expect them.
1. Ding Dong Dating
— Media credit: dingdongdating.ottawa
Website: https://www.facebook.com/DingDongDatingOttawa
Ding Dong Dating caters to a lot of different preferences, making it a versatile choice for speed dating. There are certain events tailored to specific sexual orientations and ages, so you can find an event that matches your preferences.
Make sure to check out their website to be updated on their future events.
2. Flare Events
— Media credit: flare_events
Website: https://flareevents.ca/in-person-speed-dating-ottawa/
The speed dating events by Flare Events are designed to be fast-paced and memorable, focusing on deep interactions rather than just small talk.
Each event is crafted to maximize your chances of connecting with someone special through engaging, meaningful conversations. With a lively atmosphere and a variety of participants, you’ll find yourself in the midst of exciting and genuine encounters.
Attendees get to meet new people and have fun, leaving behind the nerves they had when they first walked in.
Events are announced on their website months in advance, so you have ample time to get ready!
Workshops and Classes
Sometimes, looking for “the one” doesn’t have to be a hard quest. I believe that if you just follow your path and passion, you’ll eventually meet the right person.
Enter workshops and classes in Ottawa where you can connect with like-minded individuals! While there’s a multitude of options to join, here are just a few examples to get you started.
1. Pottery Classes
Pottery classes in Ottawa offer a relaxed, fun environment where you can connect with others on a deeper level.
It’s a great way to spark conversations and form connections in a low-pressure setting.
You never know – your future partner might be the one who helps you perfect that lopsided vase or shares your excitement over a perfectly sculpted mug!
And if you don’t get to meet anyone during the class, at least you’ll have a tangible reminder of the experience with each finished piece you take home!
There are a lot of pottery classes in the city to join. There’s one by the Mud Oven, Hintonburg Pottery, and my personal favorite – Stuck in the Mud Pottery Studio!
2. Yoga Classes
If you’re someone who does yoga on a daily basis, it’s only natural to want a partner who you can do this activity with. Yoga classes in Ottawa are the perfect place to find your zen – and maybe even your soulmate!
Plus, there’s something undeniably attractive about someone who can hold a warrior pose with confidence!
With so many yoga studios and classes to choose from in the city, you’ll never run out of options.
3. Cooking Classes
Places like C’est Bon Cooking and Cozymeal offer cooking classes where you can bond with others over shared culinary experiences. As a foodie myself, nothing says “potential partner” like someone who can whip up a delicious meal!
4. Dance Classes
Dance classes are a great way to break the ice without the awkwardness. There’s no need to stumble through cheesy pickup lines just to get to know them!
And who knows? That dance partner who makes you laugh might just be the person you want to keep dancing with, both on and off the floor.
Fortunately, there are a lot of dance classes in the city to look out for. You can check out Moov Ottawa Dance for hip-hop, Arthur Murray Ottawa Dance Studio for ballroom, and Greta Leeming Studio of Dance for jazz, ballet, and tap!
Interest-Based Clubs
Interest-based clubs are a low-pressure way to meet new people. Instead of awkwardly searching for common ground, you’re literally participating in it together.
You’re already starting with something in common, so conversations flow naturally, and connections build over time. I believe in the process of joining a club, doing what you love, and seeing where it leads!
Below are a few fun clubs you might want to join.
1. Tennis Clubs
If you’re looking to score some points in the dating game, why not start with a tennis club? This is especially fun if you’re a fan of tennis or just looking for a sport to get into.
Tennis clubs also have a great social vibe, with plenty of opportunities to chat before and after matches, join group events, or even grab a post-game drink.
A few tennis clubs you should check out are Ottawa Tennis & Lawn Bowling Club, Tennis Centre West Ottawa, and Elmdale Tennis Club.
2. Cycling Clubs
Cycling clubs offer a great mix of adventure and social interaction. When you’re out on a group ride, you get to chat, laugh, and enjoy the scenery with your fellow cyclists, making the experience both enjoyable and memorable.
You’re not just desperately looking for someone to date, you’re also having fun, and that’s what’s most important.
If you find yourself interested in another club member, it’s easier to ask them out after your club session! Try inviting them for dinner or drinks for a refreshing post-ride hangout.
The best cycling clubs in Ottawa are Ottawa Bicycle Club, Ottawa Women’s Cycling Club, and Common Empire.
3. Social Clubs
If you want to focus solely on socializing, joining a social club in Ottawa might be more up your alley.
The best part? If you click with someone, it’s simple to extend the connection beyond the club’s activities.
You can simply say “Hey, let’s grab coffee sometime,” and it will be easy to set up. It’s a casual way to take your new connection to the next level.
I’ve added a multitude of dating activities to do in Ottawa below to get you started!
Dating Activities in Ottawa
Ottawa’s dating scene thrives on laid-back activities, making it easy to enjoy each other’s company and build genuine connections.
The focus is on having fun and getting to know one another. These relaxed settings help foster genuine connections and make conversations flow more naturally.
Whether it’s outdoor adventures, cultural outings, or foodie dates, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Outdoor Activities
Despite being the country’s capital, many would be surprised that Ottawa offers a wide array of outdoor activities without stepping foot outside its premises.
1. Hiking
Hiking in Ottawa is like discovering a hidden goldmine of natural beauty right in your backyard. There’s no need to travel far to immerse yourself in verdant spaces and mesmerizing meadows.
Sharing these experiences with someone special can create lasting memories and deepen your connection.
With an array of scenic trails that cater to all levels of hikers, Ottawa’s outdoor landscape is a paradise for summer dates, winter romances, and year-round adventures.
Wondering where to find the best spots to hit the trails? Keep reading to discover the top hiking locations that will surely impress your date!
Mud Lake Trail
— Media credit: dim45.radityo
Directions: https://maps.app.goo.gl/QPyfoC4DWsAcUShz7
Address: Lincoln Heights Park, 265 Britannia Rd
Operating hours: Open 24 hours
Mud Lake Trail is a laid-back trail perfect for first dates where you can focus on getting to know each other deeper. Despite its name, you can be assured that it’s not as messy as it sounds!
With only around 40 minutes to complete from start to end, this easy-going hike provides just the right amount of time to enjoy each other’s company without breaking a sweat.
Plus, the serene lake views and peaceful surroundings set the stage for some great conversation.
By the way, it’s a popular spot for seeing wildlife such as ducks, squirrels, geese, turkeys, and more. You might even want to bring your camera for a romantic photo walk!
Ottawa River Pathway
— Media credit: ncc_ccn
Directions: https://maps.app.goo.gl/nQezMCeG6U3JKVxMA
Ottawa River Pathway, also called the Capital Pathway or the Bike Path, is an exciting 220-kilometer stretch where you can experience some of the best views of the city and its natural beauty.
Don’t worry – you don’t have to feel pressured to tackle the entire route from start to end!
Since it’s connected to a lot of other trails, parks, and attractions, you can easily customize your adventure to fit your schedule and energy level.
2. Picnicking
With an abundance of parks, riverfronts, and green spaces, Ottawa is the perfect city for anyone who loves to go on a picnicking adventure.
Rideau Canal
— Media credit: svperdave
Directions: https://maps.app.goo.gl/oG6NkYJiGSi7xTo49
Rideau Canal is Ottawa’s very own UNESCO World Heritage Site, promising striking views that are sure to make your romantic date a success.
Stretching over 200 kilometers, it’s renowned for its picturesque views and vibrant atmosphere. You can enjoy its undeniable beauty while taking in historical landmarks like the impressive Parliament Buildings.
You can also take a leisurely stroll, or even engage in exciting outdoor activities such as canoeing, biking, and of course, picnicking.
The picturesque setting makes it the perfect backdrop for laying out a cozy blanket, unpacking some snacks, and engaging in deep conversations with your date.
During the winter, Rideau Canal is also a popular destination for outdoor skating, and is even considered the longest outdoor ice skating rink in the globe!
Major’s Hill Park
— Media credit: exploreecanadaa
Directions: https://maps.app.goo.gl/jsBTiQhtkHv71kCF8
Address: Mackenzie Ave
Contact details: +1 800-465-1867
Operating hours: Open 24 hours
Major’s Hill Park is one of the city’s largest, making it a renowned destination for those seeking to escape Ottawa’s hustle and bustle without leaving town.
The park’s central location ensures it’s easily accessible, making it a favorite spot for Ottawans looking to enjoy a peaceful oasis in the heart of the city.
Additionally, the park often hosts community events and festivals, adding another reason why you should take your date here.
Plus, its verdant landscapes, mesmerizing views of the Rideau Canal, and charming picnic areas make it a perfect spot for a romantic getaway.
Dominion Arboretum
— Media credit: queenbrc22
Directions: https://maps.app.goo.gl/avTzmszw8Pc117AJ9
Contact details: +1 613-759-1982
Located in the breathtaking Central Experimental Farm, Dominion Arboretum is one of the city’s most exciting outdoor destinations.
Here, you can enjoy a marvelous time picnicking while watching the variety of flowers, soaking in the fresh air, and taking in the serene atmosphere. If you’re visiting during spring, make sure to catch the cherry blossoms in full bloom.
Since it’s free, there’s no reason not to pack a picnic and spend a day with your date surrounded by nature’s beauty!
3. Camping
Outdoor adventurers might jump at the chance to go camping, but hear me out before you ask your date!
In my book, camping feels like a fifth-date kind of idea because it’s a bit more adventurous and intimate, and let’s be honest, it might not be safe to pitch a tent with someone you just met!
Nevertheless, here’s a tip from me: it might be better to ask your date beforehand if they’re comfortable with roughing it outdoors.
Anyway, without further ado, here are the most exciting camping spots in Ottawa!
Camp Hither Hills
— Media credit: campincanada
Website: https://camphitherhills.com/
Address: 5227 Bank St
Contact details: +1 613-822-0509
Operating hours:
- Monday to Saturday – 9 AM to 8 PM
- Sunday – closed
Listen up, nature enthusiasts – let me clue you in on a little secret. Camp Hither Hills is a campsite tucked away in the midst of the buzzing Bank Street. Who knew a hidden oasis could be so close to the city’s hustle and bustle?
Guests can stay in their RV, complete with WiFi and services such as electrical, water, and sewer! This destination also has spectacular amenities like a dog park, picnic tables, restrooms, and more.
Wesley Clover Parks Campground
— Media credit: thewcparks
Website: https://www.wesleycloverparks.com/
Address: 411 Corkstown Rd
Contact details: +1 613-828-6632
Operating hours: Monday to Sunday – 8:30 AM to 4 PM
Wesley Clover Parks Campground is one of the premier destinations for camping in Ottawa. With its well-maintained sites and ample amenities, it’s ideal for those who want to blend the rustic charm of camping with a touch of comfort.
Plus, the scenic trails provide endless opportunities for outdoor fun, giving your date plenty to smile about when they get home – while thinking fondly of you!
Cultural Activities
Consider me a bit biased, but I personally love experiencing cultural activities as a date idea.
There was this one time when I attended an art exhibit in the city, and my date and I spent hours discussing our favorite pieces and discovering new artists.
And you know what? It turned out to be one of the most memorable dates I’ve ever had!
It felt like a mini-adventure, allowing me to learn more about my date and their outlook on the world, all while enjoying enriching experiences together.
If you have the same sentiments, fortunately, there are a multitude of cultural activities in Ottawa to take your date to, no matter what season it is.
That’s why Ottawa is such a vibrant city for dating – there’s always something happening, from art exhibits and theater performances to music festivals and historical tours.
No matter your interests, you’ll find plenty of opportunities to make your dates memorable and engaging.
I made sure to include those you can enjoy all year round so that you’ll always have a go-to plan to impress – I got you, dear reader!
1. Visiting the Canadian Museum of Nature
— Media credit: museumofnature
Website: https://nature.ca/en/
Address: 240 McLeod St
Contact details: +1 800-263-4433
Operating hours:
- Monday to Wednesday, Friday to Sunday – 9:30 AM to 5 PM
- Thursday – 9:30 AM to 8 PM
Canadian Museum of Nature is a hub for curious minds who want to learn more about the animals that roamed the Earth before our time, as well as modern-day creatures that are still wowing us with their quirks and wonders.
Taking your date here is a fantastic way to spark some lively conversations and discover each other’s inner nature nerd! Of course, you don’t have to learn everything about the exhibits beforehand just to impress your date – just be yourself!
However, it does pay to be ready about certain things so here’s an insider’s tip: The Lieutenant’s Pump, a stylish British pub, is just a 5-minute walk away.
They’ve got some really delicious wings that are perfectly sauced. Plus, there’s also a plethora of cocktail options for an even more exciting time.
If you want to continue the fun with your date over some hearty pub fare and a pint, here’s a nearby option!
2. Immersing in the artistic wonders of the National Gallery of Canada
— Media credit: natgallerycan
Website: https://www.gallery.ca/
Address: 380 Sussex Dr
Contact details: +1 613-990-1985
Operating hours:
- Monday to Wednesday, Friday to Sunday – 9:30 AM to 5 PM
- Thursday – 9:30 AM to 8 PM
The National Gallery of Canada is one of the best museums you can visit in Ottawa. And if you take your date here, they’ll know you’re serious about impressing them with some top-notch culture.
There are about 12,400 square meters of space that the exhibits occupy, so you can expect a plethora of breathtaking art and intriguing installations.
3. Participating in the Haunted Walk of Ottawa
— Media credit: hauntedwalk
Website: https://www.hauntedwalk.com/
Address: 46 1/2 Sparks St
Contact details: +1 613-232-0344
Operating hours:
- Monday – 9 AM to 5 PM
- Tuesday to Sunday – 10 AM to 9 PM
Those who want to take their dates to a spine-tingling experience that’s thrilling, uniquely entertaining, and surprisingly enriching might want to check out the Haunted Walk of Ottawa.
But before you proceed to read what it’s all about, do note that this might not work with some folks, so it’s important to know what your date is interested in!
This exciting tour takes you on a ghostly journey through Ottawa, giving you a chance to see the city through a different lens. It turns ordinary spots into intriguing mysteries, uncovering the hidden, haunted history of Ottawa.
The guide will lead you to haunted spots in the city, so you can learn about the eerie history and spooky legends that lurk in the shadows.
I highly recommend the Bytown Museum Haunted Tour, where you’ll hear about the chilling experiences of those who work there – and even the guides – if you’re brave enough!
Foodie Dates
Sometimes, there’s nothing more romantic than a sit-down dinner where you can share intimate conversations over delicious food and a cozy atmosphere.
Romantic doesn’t always equate to fancy, so I made sure to include various foodie spots with different price points so that everyone can find the perfect place to impress their date without breaking the bank.
1. Riviera Ottawa
— Media credit: dineriviera
Website: https://dineriviera.com/
Address: 62 Sparks St.
Contact details: +1 613-233-6262
Pricing: $$$
Operating hours:
- Monday to Wednesday, and Sunday – 5 PM to 10 PM
- Thursday to Saturday – 5 PM to 11 PM
Riviera is one of the top spots in Ottawa for a date if you want to wow them with a lavish experience, indulgent Canadian cuisine, and a stylish, intimate ambiance that’s bound to set the perfect mood.
Impress them even further by suggesting the beef tartare as their main and the mushroom on toast as the appetizer. I swear, these dishes are so delicious, it’s impossible not to have a memorable night!
2. Aroma Meze
— Media credit: aroma.meze
Website: https://www.aromameze.com/
Address: 239 Nepean St
Contact details: +1 613-421-0504
Pricing: $$
Operating hours:
- Monday, Tuesday, and Sunday – 4:30 PM to 9 PM
- Wednesday and Thursday – 11:30 AM to 2 PM, 4:30 PM to 9 PM
- Friday and Saturday – 4:30 PM to 10 PM
Aroma Meze is an affordable yet stylish tapas restaurant with an intimate and charming vibe that will make your date feel special without straining your wallet.
The Best in Ottawa team loves this restaurant so much that it even made it to our list of best romantic dinner spots in the city!
And if you know us, you know we don’t take our dining recommendations lightly. With its expertly crafted menu, you’re in for a culinary adventure of a lifetime.
If that doesn’t convince you to give this place a go, just imagine sharing a plate of exquisite tapas while basking in the cozy atmosphere.
The gorgonzola gnocchi is a must-try for its creamy, decadent flavor and melt-in-your-mouth texture that will have you both swooning.
3. Ratatouille Bistro
— Media credit: ratatouillebistro
Website: https://www.ratatouillebistro.ca/
Address: 278 Dalhousie St
Contact details: +1 613-695-5785
Pricing: $$
Operating hours:
- Monday – closed
- Tuesday to Thursday – 7:30 AM to 9 PM
- Friday – 7:30 AM to 10 PM
- Saturday – 9:30 AM to 10 PM
- Sunday – 9:30 AM to 3 PM
Ratatouille Bistro is a homey enclave where the French fusion plates are really given a chance to shine. It’s also a popular brunch spot, so feel free to fuel up with a delightful meal before you start your activities for the day.
The ratatouille sammie is an exceptional choice for its variety of ingredients that create adventurous bites each time you open your mouth!
It’s like your classic breakfast favorite but with an elevated look and taste. It’s a satisfying mix of savory, cheesy, and slightly tangy notes, which make it so irresistible.
With charred sourdough topped with bacon, eggs, cheddar, avocado, and more, it’s a great way to kick-start your day on a delicious note.
As for the dinner menu, the wild mushroom ravioli in particular captured my foodie heart for its rich, earthy filling and perfectly balanced, buttery sauce. If that sounds exactly like your kind of culinary delight, then by all means!
Since it’s located at the ByWard Market, there are plenty of restaurants and bars to explore after your meal for a little nightcap or post-dinner fun, making its accessible location one of its unbeatable highlights.
Nightlife Fun
If you’re looking to spice up your date night, why not dive into Ottawa’s vibrant nightlife?
Whether it’s hitting up a lively bar for some creative cocktails, watching a drag show, or joining a karaoke night, these are the perfect spots to create new memories and share some laughs.
1. Swizzles
— Media credit: swizzlesbar
Website: https://www.swizzles.ca/
Address: 246 B Queen St
Contact details: +1 613-232-4200
Operating hours:
- Monday and Wednesday – 4 PM to 2 AM
- Tuesday – closed
- Thursday and Friday – 3 PM to 2 AM
- Saturday – 7 PM to 2 AM
- Sunday – 5 PM to 2 AM
Swizzles is a vibrant gay bar where you can take your date if you want to dive into the heart of the queer community.
Considered one of the best gay bars in the city, it offers an electrifying ambiance that promises a memorable night out. Plus, the crowd is really friendly and welcoming, so you can feel right at home.
There are events to look out for, such as karaoke nights and drag shows, which are like built-in icebreakers, so you don’t have to worry about running out of conversation topics on your date.
And in case you’re wondering if Ottawa is a gay-friendly city – quick answer: yes, but there’s always room for improvement. For the full scoop on how LGBTQ+-friendly the city really is, dive into our article about it!
2. Rabbit Hole
— Media credit: rabbitholeott
Website: https://rabbitholeott.ca/
Address: 208 Sparks St
Contact details: +1 613-695-0500
Operating hours:
- Monday – 5 PM to 12 AM
- Tuesday to Thursday – 11:30 AM to 12 AM
- Friday – 11:30 AM to 2 AM
- Saturday – 5 PM to 2 AM
- Sunday – closed
Rabbit Hole is an intimate dim-lit cocktail bar in the downtown area where you can enjoy delicious bites, tasty libations, and engaging conversations with your date.
The pizzas are really popular here, and if I were you, I’d order the white 4. With a ricotta cream sauce base and ingredients such as prosciutto, artichokes, apple, and honey drizzle, it’s a flavor explosion that makes finishing every slice irresistible.
Since it has a laid-back atmosphere, you can relish taking your time and savoring every moment of your evening.
3. The Moonroom
— Media credit: themoonroom
Website: https://www.instagram.com/themoonroom/
Address: 442 Preston St
Operating hours: Monday to Sunday – 5 PM to 2 AM
I might be giving way my personal date spot here, but it’s all in the name of love! The atmosphere couldn’t be any more romantic than The Moonroom – a cozy and chic bar with moody lighting famous for its delicious Mediterranean dishes and creative cocktails.
While on the pricier side, it offers an unforgettable dining experience that’s worth every penny.