Visiting Ottawa in August

August in the city of Ottawa is nothing short of wonderful - with its beautiful lush green tall trees, beaches, parks, rivers, and whatnot. And just across the Ottawa River, you can see the beautiful Gatineau Hills. An urban and rural beauty alike with lots of outdoor activities and vibrant neighborhoods, you will surely love this place!

Ottawa is also the seat of the federal government, and visiting its institutions offers a fascinating glimpse into Canadian democracy and history. Explore the Top Attractions of Ottawa including Rideau Canal Cruise and Parliament Hill with the Best of Ottawa Tour!

Is August a Good Time to Visit Ottawa?

Yes, it's a great time to visit the capital city of Canada. The gorgeous summer heat and long days are perfect for hiking and outdoor adventures. You can enjoy various festivals and local farmers' markets or just sip tasty beers on a patio.

Why to Visit Ottawa in August?

Ottawa is often ranked among the top summer destinations for North Americans seeking a balance of culture, nature, and vibrant city life. It offers fantastic outdoor spaces and a lot of activities in August. It is surrounded by beautiful waterways, including the Ottawa River, the Rideau River, and the Rideau Canal.

In summer, you can go boating, paddling, or rafting. People who love cycling can explore a ton of rural and urban pathways. There are also mountain biking trails in the nearby hills and Gatineau Park.

Moreover, Ottawa is rich in culture, and August is the perfect time to explore its beauty. You can visit Parliament Hill, which welcomes visitors on free tours of its historic sites.

How is Ottawa August Weather?

The August weather in Ottawa is fairly pleasant. During the day time, it can go as high as 25°C, and at night time, it drops to approximately 14°C. So, it is best to pack some jackets with you, plus some light summer clothing.

What To Do in Ottawa in August?

Here’s the list of some of the things you can do in Ottawa:

Stroll through the Gatineau Park

With its gorgeous scenery and perfect trails, Gatineau Park is great for a day out in the sun. From downtown Ottawa, it takes around 20 minutes by car, and it is perfect to visit in August. Here, you can visit the beautiful Pink Lake trail or go for Wilson Carbide Ruins which has a beautiful waterfall.

Gatineau Beer Fest

You can taste some of the most delicious craft beers at the Gatineau Beer Fest. It's a must-visit place in August, offering over 350 wide range of craft beers and features around 30 Quebec and Ontario Brewers.

Ottawa River Cruise

The Ottawa River Cruise is a 1.5-hour guided boat tour offering stunning views of Canada’s capital. Operating May to October, it sails past over 50 landmarks including Parliament Hill and Rideau Falls. With departures from Ottawa and Gatineau, it features bilingual commentary, a licensed bar, and both open and sheltered seating for a relaxing, scenic experience. If you're exploring further, consider a scenic drive toward the St. Lawrence River, where charming towns and breathtaking water views await.

The Greenbelt Trails

Owning over 150 km of trail networks, the Greenbelt Trails are something else. They weave through forests, hidden sand dunes, wetlands, and farms. They feature some of these beautiful trails:

Stony Swamp:

It is a stunning trail with a sugar maple forest, boggy wetlands, and whatnot. For bird watchers, this is a must-visit place with over 250 rare species.

Pinhey Forest:

Pinhey Forest trail's gorgeous highlight is the post-glacial sand dunes that feel surreal. They are over 10,000 years old and definitely worth a visit.

Shirley's Bay Trail:

It's a beautiful place for hiking, biking, or even just walking. You can explore wetlands from here, and it is perfect for having a little picnic and getting some rest.

Canadian Museum of History

As one of Canada’s premier national museums, the Canadian Museum of History welcomes millions of visitors each year. In the Grand Hall, you can see one of the world's largest indoor collections of totem poles. One exhibit explores the journeys of Samuel de Champlain, whose early explorations shaped the course of Canadian settlement. You will be fascinated to learn about Canada’s diverse cultural history, especially the achievements and traditions of Indigenous nations in First Peoples Hall.

Watch the Fireworks Show

In August, you can enjoy the Sound of Lights festival, which is located on the grounds of the Canadian Museum of History. Grab your tickets beforehand and enjoy the gorgeous display of the lights.

Canadian Museum of Nature

At this museum, many exhibits and interactive activities showcase the wild spaces of Canada. In one castle-like building, you will get to explore the science related to mammals, minerals, fossils, birds, marine life, plate tectonics and much more.

Canadian War Museum

The Canadian War Museum houses Canadian Experience Galleries, including the special exhibitions "Outside the Lines" and "Invasion", which showcase the military history from earliest time to this day. The collections in this museum include powerful exhibits on both World Wars, with rare artifacts, personal accounts, and immersive galleries. One of the highlights includes exhibits on the War of 1812, offering insights into its impact on Canadian identity and sovereignty.

Diefenbunker: Canada’s Cold War Museum

Venture 75 feet underground to explore Canada’s once-top-secret nuclear fallout shelter. The Diefenbunker is a fascinating museum filled with Cold War artifacts, preserved rooms, and eerie corridors. It’s like stepping back in time—and makes for a very unique experience, especially in August when the cool bunker offers a break from the summer heat.

Capital Pride Week

Capital Pride Fest is another main highlight of Ottawa in August. You will love this fest because there will be a rainbow party, sporting events, picnics, and most important, the Pride Parade. For a week, the center of Ottawa's Gay Village will be bustling with lots of activities and live music.

ByWard Market

ByWard Market is a unique destination with diverse cuisine, arts, entertainment, shopping, and various other services for locals and tourists. In the National Capital Region, this is the number one tourist attraction in August, packed with artisans and culinary delights. Live music is performed in the streets, and all kinds of art are on display. This is a must-visit place for everyone!

Guided Tour of The Royal Canadian Mint

Want to see how real coins and gold bars are made? Take a guided tour of the Royal Canadian Mint in downtown Ottawa. You'll learn how circulation and commemorative coins are produced, and even get a chance to hold a solid gold bar (under supervision, of course!).

Weekend Visit Rideau Hall

Often overlooked by tourists, Rideau Hall is the official residence of the Governor General of Canada. While it’s more active during the spring and fall, in August you can enjoy free weekend tours of the state rooms, manicured grounds, and even special events like Storytime under the Reading Tent.

Prince of Wales Falls & Hog’s Back Park

Take a break from the city buzz and head to this underrated natural wonder. Located within Hog’s Back Park, Prince of Wales Falls offers a scenic setting for walks, short hikes, and nature photography. A nearby trail loops through forested areas, and picnic tables make it an ideal lunch stop. In August, the falls are especially powerful and photo-worthy.

What are Other Must Visit Attractions in Ottawa?

National Gallery of Canada

Just a short walk from Parliament Hill, the National Gallery of Canada is among the top art galleries in the country, showcasing works that span centuries and continents.. With its striking glass architecture and stunning views of the Ottawa River, the gallery houses an incredible collection of Indigenous, Canadian, and international art.

Fairmont Chateau Laurier

Right next to Parliament Hill stands the iconic Fairmont Château Laurier, a historic hotel that’s as majestic as the landmarks surrounding it. It is often referred to as the city’s "castle." Overlooking the Rideau Canal and Parliament Hill, this grand hotel blends French Gothic architecture with luxurious charm,

Canada Aviation and Space Museum

For aviation lovers and curious minds, this museum is a treat! Located near the Ottawa River, it showcases everything from vintage biplanes to cutting-edge fighter jets and space technology. It’s interactive and family-friendly, with flight simulators and hands-on exhibits that make it ideal for all ages. You can even book a real biplane ride in the summer.

Canada Science and Technology Museum

Perfect for a rainy day or an afternoon of discovery, this modern and immersive museum highlights Canada’s contributions to science, tech, and innovation. From locomotives and satellites to interactive labs, it's educational and fun. Don’t forget to check out the souvenir shop.

Notre Dame Cathedral Basilica

Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica is located across from the National Gallery, this 19th-century cathedral is Ottawa’s oldest and largest church. Step inside to admire its breathtaking Gothic architecture, intricate stained glass windows, and gold-leaf-covered altars. The peaceful ambiance and historic beauty are worth a stop.

What are the Must-Attend Events in Ottawa This August (2025)?

If you're visiting Ottawa this August, these are the standout events you shouldn’t miss. From fireworks and festivals to iconic outdoor experiences, here’s what’s worth planning around:

Les Grands Feux du Casino Lac-Leamy

Every Wednesday and Saturday until August 16, the Canadian Museum of History in Gatineau hosts a dazzling international fireworks competition set to music, featuring themed nights, food trucks, and stunning views from both sides of the Ottawa River.

Doors Open at Rideau Hall

From August 2–4, enjoy a rare self-guided tour of the Governor General’s residence at 1 Sussex Drive, including its beautiful gardens and historic greenhouses — all free during the long weekend.

Ironman Canada – Ottawa

On August 3, catch elite athletes competing in a thrilling 3-part race across Ottawa, with key action at Parliament Hill, Britannia Beach, and downtown — and an electric finish near Parliament Hill.

Ottawa International Busker Festival

From August 8–10, Sparks Street comes alive as acrobats, magicians, and street performers from around the world take over downtown Ottawa for a family-friendly, action-packed festival.

Ottawa Greek Fest

From August 14–17 at 1315 Prince of Wales Drive, experience a beloved tradition with live Greek music, energetic dancing, and authentic cuisine — don’t miss the souvlaki and loukoumades.

Navan Fair

From August 7–10 in Navan, just 30 minutes from Ottawa, enjoy a classic country fair filled with farm animals, tractor pulls, demolition derbies, carnival rides, and all your favorite fair foods — perfect for families and a dose of nostalgic fun.

Colonel By Day Long Weekend Activities

From August 1–4, celebrate Ottawa’s founding with heritage-themed events, free museum access, and family-friendly programming across the city — especially at the Bytown Museum during the Civic Holiday weekend.

Wrapping Up:

Whether you're into nature, politics, or culture, Ottawa is a living tapestry of Canadian heritage waiting to be explored. Summer in Ottawa makes the city vibrant and full of life. You can enjoy many festivals, outdoor activities, beautiful patios, museums, hiking trails, and more. So, pack your bags and plan your trip to Ottawa now!