11 Exciting Things to Do in Kanata That Might Just Tempt You to Move into the ‘Burb
Think suburbs are boring? If Desperate Housewives didn’t prove you wrong, let me introduce Kanata.
While it’s certainly not as bustling as Downtown Ottawa and Little Italy, and definitely not as dramatic as Wisteria Lane, Kanata has its own charm that makes it stand out.
Sure, you won’t be solving neighborhood mysteries, but Kanata’s got surprises that will make you rethink exploring the outskirts of the city.
Considering Kanata’s suburban status, you might be pleasantly surprised at what it has up its sleeve. However, be forewarned: The juicy tidbits I have to share might just convince you to stay forever!
1. Try out different sushi creations at Hockey Sushi
Website: https://hockeysushi.ca
Address: 4055 Carling Ave Unit #10
Contact details: +1 613-270-1122
Operating hours:
- Monday to Thursday, and Sunday – 11 AM to 9 PM
- Friday and Saturday – 11 AM to 9:30 PM
As Kanata is brimming with a plethora of delicious eats, it’s impossible to kick off this article with anything other than a restaurant.
First up: Hockey Sushi! Whatever sushi you’re craving, they likely have it here, given their diverse menu choices.
Expect octopus sushi, mackerel sushi, spicy salmon sushi, and other flavorful variations of donburi, tempura, teppanyaki, and more.
They also have interesting innovations like unagi pizza and salmon pizza, which are both good, by the way.
Did I mention that they have an all-you-can-eat menu too? If I were you, I’d start planning my trip ASAP!
2. Indulge in creative bagel flavors at Kettlemans Bagel
Website: https://www.kettlemansbagels.ca
Address: 710 Eagleson Rd
Contact details: +1 343-773-2212
Operating hours: Monday to Sunday – 6 AM to 10 PM
For exciting bagel flavors, Kettlemans is one of the big dogs in the game.
They have multiple locations across the city, most of which are open until late! This exciting foodie spot even made it to our list of best late-night eats in Ottawa – that’s how much Best in Ottawa loves it.
While this location closes at 10 PM, the drive-through is open 24/7, so you can get your bagel fix anytime in the neighborhood.
I highly recommend the breakfast bagel, especially to those who find it impossible to resist such a timeless classic.
Otherwise, Reuben might just tickle your fancy. This exciting choice comes with Montreal smoked meat, along with other fresh ingredients that blend into a medley of flavors.
3. Sample flavorful North Indian cuisine at Raahi Indian Dhaba
Website: https://raahidhaba.ca
Address: 782 Eagleson Rd
Contact details: +1 613-515-0544
Operating hours:
- Monday – closed
- Tuesday to Sunday – 11:30 AM to 9 PM
Raahi Indian Dhaba is Kanata’s very own North Indian delight, serving chole bhature that’s bursting with authentic flavor and aromatic spice.
It’s the ultimate standout dish, and just after the first bite, I could clearly see why. No wonder why some people drive all the way to Kanata just to try it out!
The portion sizes of their dishes are also generous, ensuring a filling and satisfying experience that will leave you eager to come back for more.
4. Relish delicious barbecue at Big Bone Barbecue & Wicked Wings
Website: https://bigbonebbq.ca/big-bone-bbq-ottawa/
Address: 701 Eagleson Rd
Contact details: +1 613-435-5453
Operating hours:
- Monday to Saturday – 11 AM to 9 PM
- Sunday – 12 PM to 8 PM
Avid enthusiasts of smokey, charred dishes will have the time of their lives sampling every possible dish at Big Bone Barbecue & Wicked Wings.
The ribs steal the show with their perfectly seasoned and sauced delight. Alongside this star dish, consider also ordering other crowd favorites like pulled pork and smoked wings for the ultimate feast!
This location has been a Kanata gem for more than 25 years now, making it a real culinary delight in the suburb.
5. Enjoy a scenic dining experience at Constance Lake Lodge
Website: https://www.facebook.com/ConstanceLakeLodge/
Address: 175 Constance Lake Rd
Contact details: +1 613-832-2097
Operating hours:
- Monday and Tuesday – closed
- Wednesday to Sunday – 8 AM to 2 PM
Constance Lake Lodge is a delightful spot for breakfast, brunch, and lunch, renowned for its charming patio seating that overlooks the serene beauty of Constance Lake.
Trust me, you’ll be in culinary bliss while you enjoy a plate of classic breakfast food together with the picturesque view.
If you’re extra hungry, I recommend the Hungry Breakfast Man which features potatoes, bread, bacon, beans, and egg.
Oh, and after a hearty meal, you can even try your hand at fishing at the lake!
6. Play a thrilling game of golf at Kanata Golf and Country Club
Website: https://kanata.clublink.ca
Address: 7000 Campeau Dr
Contact details: +1 613-592-9417
Operating hours: Monday to Sunday – 8 AM to 8 PM
Kanata Golf and Country Club is an exciting destination for enthusiasts looking for challenging rounds set amidst perfectly manicured landscapes, making playing golf a truly enjoyable experience.
It has several facilities for practice, including iron range, putting green, and chipping green, so you can polish your game enough to vanquish your enemies next time!
Fortunately, you don’t have to be a member to play, though that comes with its own set of perks, like opportunities to enjoy more than 45 championship courses across Ontario, Quebec, and Florida.
7. Participate in exhilarating fitness activities at Richcraft Recreation Complex
Directions: https://maps.app.goo.gl/A464wyLYn2FijPd47
Address: 4101 Innovation Dr
Contact details: +1 613-580-9696
Operating hours:
- Monday to Friday – 6 AM to 9 PM
- Saturday and Sunday – 8 AM to 8 PM
Those looking to stay active in Kanata can do so by visiting the Richcraft Recreation Complex, a hub offering a variety of activities such as swimming, weightlifting, cardio, and racquet sports.
They also host several courses and camps, which I recommend taking advantage of.
They have a variety of programs to choose from too, including adult swimming, badminton, and basketball, and even activities to exercise your creative juices such as 3D printing and designing.
8. Watch the latest flicks at Landmark Cinemas
Website: https://www.landmarkcinemas.com/showtimes/kanata?#contact
Address: 801 Kanata Ave.
Contact details: +1 613-599-5500
If you’re looking for a classic entertainment option where you can just sit back and enjoy the experience, watching the latest flicks at Landmark Cinemas might be right up your alley.
You can even catch selected movies with the laser ultra experience, which means the colors are more vibrant. They can also show bright whites and really dark blacks, so everything looks extra cool on the screen!
9. Experience the thrill of ice skating at Jack Charron Arena
Directions: https://maps.app.goo.gl/ronUsRdzcNFxhnvdA
Address: 10 McKitrick Dr
Contact details: +1 613-580-2424
Whether you’re a seasoned skater or a total newbie, Jack Charron Arena is where the magic happens.
It’s spacious, well-maintained, and indoors, so you can glide along the ice to your heart’s content.
The only downside is the small dressing rooms, but overall, it’s clean, and the upstairs sports bar adds a nice touch to the experience.
10. Take a leisurely stroll at Meadowbreeze Park
Directions: https://maps.app.goo.gl/RZm17t8ngfQGkhKcA
Address: 98 Meadowbreeze Dr
Operating hours: Monday to Sunday – 5 AM to 11 PM
Kanata is a lovely suburb where urban convenience and natural beauty meet.
One can enjoy a plethora of delicious eats on one end of the street and a vast, verdant space at the other, like Meadowbreeze Park.
It features multiple convenient amenities such as a soccer field and even a rink for winter activities.
There’s also a children’s playground for family outings, and it’s quite dog-friendly too! You might even meet fellow dog owners and make new friends here.
11. Enroll your kids in gymnastic classes at Rideau Gymnastics at Resolute Center
Website: https://rideaugymnastics.org
Address: 150 Katimavik Rd unit 101
Contact details: +1 613-627-0066
Operating hours:
- Monday to Friday – 10 AM to 12 PM, 3 PM to 8:30 PM
- Saturday and Sunday – 9 AM to 5 PM
Kanata’s family-friendly vibe also comes with family-friendly amenities where your kids can play and learn new things. At Rideau Gymnastics at Resolute Center, they can do both at the same time!
This facility offers a variety of exciting activities kids can participate in, including recreational classes, competitive programs, camps, and other engaging opportunities that are designed to challenge them.