23 Sure Ways to Impress Your Date During Valentine’s Day in Ottawa
At our last staff lunch, the talk turned to weekend adventures, and let’s just say, things got interesting! One of our peers (Hi, Nicole!) took romance to a whole new level by signing up for sword fighting classes with their partner.
Now, we know that’s not every couple’s cup of tea, but hey, we all have our definitions of romance. That’s why we crafted this list filled with ideas to cater to all kinds of couples.
From adrenaline-inducing escape rooms to fairytale-like staycations, we have all the scoop to impress your date during the love month!
1. Try Southeast Asian plates at Sidedoor
Website: https://www.sidedoorrestaurant.com
Address: 18b York St.
Contact details: +1 613-562-9331
Operating hours:
- Monday to Thursday – 11:30 AM to 10:30 PM
- Friday and Saturday – 11:30 AM to 11 PM
- Sunday – 11:30 AM to 7 PM
What’s Valentine’s Day without a romantic meal together? Consider Sidedoor, a delicious destination for all things Southeast Asian-inspired in Ottawa.
The tacos are their most popular dishes, which come in 5 different inventive flavors. The pork belly char siu is undeniably our top choice, for its tender meat and rich flavors.
They also have sweet treats like handmade donuts and desserts to enjoy after your meal. And if that’s not enough, you can also choose from their wide variety of libations to complete your romantic adventure.
Beyond its mouthwatering delights, it also boasts a cozy space, as if tailor-made for intimate meals with your date.
2. Buy some flowers for your partner at Bloomex Ottawa Flowers & Gift Baskets
Website: https://bloomex.ca/
Address: 8-4095 Belgreen Dr.
Contact details: +1 613-482-2676
When you think of Valentine’s Day, flowers are often the first thing that comes to mind. And if you’re seeking a trusted florist to purchase some blooming delights for your valentine, Bloomex can provide exactly what you need.
They offer a stunning variety of flowers, so there’s something for every taste and preference.
From classic red roses to bright and colorful sunflowers, you’ll be able to find the perfect ones to express your love.
And if that’s not enough, they also have gift baskets for those seeking a sweeter touch with a handful of chocolates.
3. Paint some pottery at The Mud Oven
Website: https://www.mudoven.com
Address: 1150 Bank St.
Contact details: +1 613-730-0814
Operating hours:
- Monday – 11 AM to 7 PM
- Tuesday to Thursday – 11 AM to 9 PM
- Friday – 11 AM to 10 PM
- Saturday – 10 AM to 10 PM
- Sunday – 10 AM to 8 PM
Doing something fun and creative together can also be a romantic activity that’s perfect for Valentine’s Day.
At The Mud Oven, you can choose any ceramics that catch your eye and make it into your own personalized masterpieces by painting them.
While this is perfect for artistic couples, we’re confident that everyone can enjoy it – no advanced skills are needed!
4. Appreciate local art at the Ottawa Art Gallery
Website: https://oaggao.ca
Address: 50 Mackenzie King Bridge
Contact details: +1 613-233-8699
Operating hours:
- Monday – closed
- Tuesday, Wednesday, and Sunday – 10 AM to 6 PM
- Thursday to Saturday – 10 AM to 9 PM
The Ottawa Art Gallery is another romantic destination for Valentine’s Day where you and your date can peruse local art.
Not only will you learn more about Ottawa’s rich art scene, but it also provides a perfect setting for meaningful conversations over complex art pieces.
You can talk about an art piece and how it speaks to you and hear what your partner has to say about it.
The best part about the Ottawa Art Gallery? It’s perfectly free to enjoy its exhibits.
Yes, you read that right. You don’t have to spend a fortune in order to enjoy the most romantic date of the year.
5. Learn the art of swordplay at Ottawa Swordplay
Website: https://www.ottawaswordplay.com
Address: 1760 St. Laurent Blvd
Contact details: +1 613-514-0158
Operating hours:
- Monday, Wednesday, Friday to Sunday – closed
- Tuesday and Thursday – 7 PM to 9:30 PM
Want to feel like you’re a character straight out of Elden Ring? You and your partner might want to embark on a swordplay adventure!
Ottawa Swordplay is the premier destination in Ottawa for learning this exciting martial art. You might even make new friends with the same interests, and host game nights where the whole new gang can join!
Admittedly, we know this is a bit out there, but we’re sure it will appeal to certain couples.
6. Go wine tasting at Buyers + Cellars Tasting Room
Website: https://buyersandcellars.ca
Address: 327 Somerset St W
Contact details: +1 613-233-0886
Operating hours:
- Monday – closed
- Tuesday to Sunday – 3 PM to 10 PM
If you and your date love spending time together over drinks in an intimate bar, you might enjoy elevating your experience by going wine tasting at Buyers + Cellars Tasting Room.
Their tasting room is meticulously designed to offer a memorable experience, with attention to subtle details such as neutralized air quality and bottles stored in a temperature-controlled environment.
Each element is sure to provide an exceptional wine-tasting adventure.
7. Learn different types of dances at Dance With Us Ottawa
Website: https://www.dancewithusottawa.com
Address: 74 Jamie Ave, Nepean
Contact details: +1 613-406-0066
Operating hours:
- Monday – 4 PM to 9 PM
- Tuesday and Saturday – closed
- Wednesday – 6 PM to 10 PM
- Thursday and Friday – 4 PM to 10 PM
- Sunday – 10 AM to 4 PM
Going dancing is undeniably a romantic activity to do with your partner, especially if you both relish the sensation of moving together in perfect harmony to the smooth rhythms of the music.
On Valentine’s Day, why not book a private class at Dance With Us?
You can choose from several dances they offer, including salsa, ballroom dancing, swing, and cha-cha.
Of course, salsa remains the top choice for those looking for an intimate and spicy dance. You’re guaranteed to have a romantic and exciting time with your partner.
And if you stumble every now and then, you can even share a laugh over it!
8. Play board games at Level One Game Pub
Website: https://levelonegamepub.com
Address: 14 Waller St
Contact details: +1 613-979-7529
Operating hours:
- Monday – 4 PM to 12 AM
- Tuesday to Thursday, and Sunday – 12 PM to 12 AM
- Friday and Saturday – 12 PM to 2 AM
If you and your partner want to enjoy Valentine’s in a relaxed setting, you might prefer playing board games at Level One Game Pub, a hotspot for thrilling tabletop games.
With an extensive collection of over a thousand board games catering to every taste and preference, you won’t encounter any shortages of options to explore.
They feature a variety of video games, including both classic and new titles.
9. Hop on a romantic cruise at Ottawa Boat Cruise
Website: https://www.ottawaboatcruise.com
There’s something about savoring the striking city views that strike the fancy of couples all over the world. And if you find yourself in Ottawa during Valentine’s, hopping on the Ottawa Boat Cruise is much recommended.
You can choose between their two available cruises: the Ottawa River Cruise or the one that combines both the Ottawa River and the Rideau Canal.
We highly recommend the latter if you want to experience the picturesque beauty of both waterways.
Directions: https://maps.app.goo.gl/FEwKoH4yoCE7pzeP8
Address: 442 Preston St
Operating hours: Monday to Sunday – 5 PM to 2 AM
The Moonroom is an intimate bar located on the outskirts of The Glebe Annex that serves inventive drinks, as well as tasty Mediterranean bar fare.
It’s a hidden gem, so you might just impress your date by taking them there. Order some cocktails, their best-sellers, to impress them even more!
This is the perfect spot if you’re looking for a late-night date setting, as they’re open until 2 AM.
11. Sample unique cocktails at Oz Kafe
Website: https://ozkafe.com
Address: 10 York St.
Contact details: +1 613-234-0907
Operating hours:
- Monday to Thursday, and Sunday – 5 PM to 11 PM
- Friday and Saturday – 5 PM to 12 AM
Oz Kafe is a hip hangout spot we love for its intimate and cozy rustic space, complete with a seasonal menu.
We highly recommend their signature cocktails, especially the sour cherry spitz if you enjoy a refreshing and zesty taste.
For something that has a bit of kick, consider the zombie, featuring tequila, egg whites, lime, and more.
After your romantic excursion at Oz Kafe, we recommend exploring the area, the ByWard Market, known for its buzzing nightlife, as well as its rich culinary offerings, teeming with delectable eats.
12. Treat yourselves to a decadent High Tea at Zoe’s
Website: https://www.zoesottawa.com
Address: 1 Rideau St
Contact details: +1 613-241-1414
Operating hours:
- Monday to Thursday, and Sunday – 11 AM to 11 PM
- Friday and Saturday – 11 AM to 12 AM
High tea can be a fantastic choice for Valentine’s Day if you’re seeking elevated elegance and unparalleled refinement.
It certainly sets the stage for a romantic experience, especially if you’re at Zoe’s. Located inside the Fairmont Château Laurier, expect an enchanting ambiance akin to a royal palace.
The best thing about their high tea is the variety of choices. From savory delights to sweet treats, as well as enticing libations, you and your date are sure to enjoy this indulgent experience.
13. Book a couple’s massage at Holtz Spa
Website: https://holtzspa.com
Address: 135 Rideau St
Contact details: +1 613-241-7770
Operating hours:
- Monday, Tuesday, and Saturday – 9 AM to 6 PM
- Wednesday to Friday – 9 AM to 8 PM
- Sunday – 11 AM to 5 PM
You can also take Valentine’s Day as an opportunity to indulge in a relaxing experience, leaving behind all the stress and worries of everyday life. If this sounds enticing to you, treat your date to Holtz Spa for a rejuvenating escape.
We suggest indulging in the romance package, which includes a massage with reflexology and a spa pedicure, perfect for unwinding together.
Remember to keep your phones on silent and take this time to unplug, allowing you to reconnect more deeply with your partner.
14. Grab a cup of coffee for two at Britannia Coffee House
Website: https://www.facebook.com/britanniacoffeehouse/
Address: 273 Britannia Rd
Operating hours: Monday to Sunday – 8 AM to 9 PM
Sometimes, a Valentine’s date doesn’t have to be extravagant. Doing simple things with your partner can be as meaningful, as sharing a cup of coffee at a charming cafe.
For this, we highly recommend Britannia Coffee House, an underrated gem with a relaxed, homey atmosphere.
Be sure to indulge in their delectable scones as well – they’re simply irresistible.
15. Have an indulgent meal at Somewhere Dine Bar
Website: https://somewhereottawa.com
Address: 110 Murray St
Contact details: +1 613-562-7244
Operating hours: Monday to Sunday – 5 PM to 2 AM
Indulging in an upscale meal for Valentine’s is a luxurious way to celebrate your love. For delicious French cuisine, Somewhere Dine Bar stands out as an unbreakable choice in Ottawa.
Its sophisticated interior is adorned with ambient lighting and elegant decor, creating a refined atmosphere perfect for a romantic date.
The oysters are the most popular bites, for their guaranteed freshness and exquisite flavor that shines through in every bite.
Be sure to order their cocktails as well, as they’re quite popular for those.
16. Spend a romantic time on ice at Jack Charron Arena
Directions: https://maps.app.goo.gl/rtALtsSb1C91jN5z5
Address: 10 McKitrick Dr, Kanata
Contact details: +1 613-580-2424
Ice skating is a timeless romantic date idea you can experience with your date on Valentine’s.
The Jack Charron Arena is highly recommended for such an adventure, with its spacious and well-maintained rink.
Usually, you can enjoy outdoor ice skating spots during the love month, but they can be too weather-dependent. So, for now, it might be wiser to opt for an indoor ice skating venue to ensure your Valentine’s Day plans go smoothly.
17. Solve puzzles in escape rooms at Escape Manor
Website: https://www.escapemanor.com/ottawa
Address: 292-A Elgin St
Contact details: +1 613-695-1655
Operating hours:
- Monday – 2 PM to 10 PM
- Tuesday – 4 PM to 12 AM
- Wednesday – 11 AM to 12 AM
- Thursday and Friday – 11 AM to 2 AM
- Saturday – 10 AM to 2 AM
- Sunday – 10 AM to 12 AM
While it’s on the eccentric side, we know some couples who’d enjoy escape rooms during Valentine’s Day. If this is your adventure of choice for a romantic time, check out Escape Manor for an impeccable experience.
You can choose from 6 different rooms, all of which have different themes and difficulties.
Death Row stands out as the most popular one among previous participants, for its nail-biting storyline.
They also have a location at Hintonburg, but there are more rooms at the Downtown location.
18. Go on a staycation at Fairmont Chateau Laurier
Website: https://www.fairmont.com/laurier-ottawa/
Address: 1 Rideau St
A staycation is perfect for couples eager to escape the routine of everyday life. For Valentine’s Day, indulge in an upscale staycation by booking a room at Fairmont Chateau Laurier.
It’s the perfect location to feel like royalty through its luxurious embellishments, as well as its impeccable service and attention to detail.
We recommend reserving the view room for spectacular views of the neighborhood, including the Rideau Canal and the Parliament buildings.
19. Have a dreamy picnic at Major Hill’s Park
Directions: https://maps.app.goo.gl/LYXLJRMFo93n1YW48
Address: Mackenzie Ave
Contact details: +1 800-465-1867
Operating hours: Open 24 hours
For Valentine’s Day, couples can also indulge in a picnic at Major Hill’s Park.
Here’s a tip to make your experience even more personalized: prepare homemade meals together, ensuring a day filled with love and culinary delights.
After your picnic, consider taking a leisurely stroll hand in hand, indulging in intimate conversations with your partner while savoring the picturesque views of Ottawa’s verdant gem.
20. Make matching jewelry at Joy Creations
Website: https://www.joycreations.ca
Address: 738A Bank Street, 2F, Unit 202
Contact details: +1 613-680-7997
Operating hours:
- Monday, Friday, Sunday – closed
- Tuesday to Thursday, and Saturday – 11 AM to 4 PM
Here’s another romantic and creatively fulfilling activity to do with your partner during Valentine’s: craft your own jewelry together at Joy Creations.
You can join four of their workshops such as wax carving, lost wax carving, silicone mold making, as well as a wedding band workshop for those who want to make their own.
The workshops are a unique and memorable way to celebrate your love and create something truly special together.
21. Soar through the skies at Ottawa Hot Air
Website: http://ottawahotair.ca
Address: 180 York St
Operating hours:
- Monday to Thursday – closed
- Friday to Sunday – 5 PM to 7 PM
For a truly unforgettable Valentine’s Day experience that will elevate your romance to new heights, why not consider booking a hot air balloon flight with Ottawa Hot Air?
Soaring high above the city offers a breathtaking perspective that you and your partner will cherish forever.
And if you’re planning on popping the question, this is one of the best ways to do it! However, you might want to skip this one if your partner’s afraid of heights!
22. Embark on an easy hiking adventure at Hog’s Back Park
Directions: https://maps.app.goo.gl/Fw5rWNndNXF399gm7
Address: 600 Hog’s Back Rd
Contact details: +1 613-239-5000
Operating hours: Monday to Sunday – 7 AM to 10 PM
Couples who enjoy an active lifestyle might want to consider going on a scenic hike at Hog’s Back Park. It’s easily accessible with fairly easy pathways, perfect for a leisure adventure.
And of course, don’t miss out on the iconic Hog’s Back Waterfalls, a picturesque spot perfect for a romantic moment to cherish forever.
There’s also plenty of wildlife to spot, adding another exciting element to your hike.
23. Experience an intimate book date at Black Squirrel Books & Espresso Bar
Website: https://www.blacksquirrelbooks.ca
Address: 1073 Bank St.
Contact details: +1 613-422-9050
Operating hours: Monday to Sunday – 9 AM to 5 PM
For couples who share an equal love for books, we know where exactly to take you – Black Squirrel Books & Espresso Bar, a charming blend of caffeine and literature.
It’s the perfect location to discover new books together, and even rediscover old favorites while cozying up in the corner with your partner. Consider ordering some light meals as well to enjoy with your cup of aromatic coffee.
And if you see an interesting title, you can also purchase them at the counter.
Oh, and don’t forget to check out their basement for more exciting offerings!