7 Local Activities to Enjoy in Ottawa During Winter 2026

January in Ottawa offers a beautiful mix of snowy magic and cozy culture. Whether you're here to embrace the outdoors or prefer to stay toasty inside, this is a city that knows how to do winter well.

At The Don Club Bed and Breakfast, we’ve picked 7 local activities to help you make the most of your stay and connect with Ottawa’s vibrant community and creative spirit.

Outdoor Activities

1. Skating on the Rideau Canal

   Glide across the world’s largest skating rink! The Rideau Canal Skateway (a UNESCO World Heritage Site) is free to access and open daily, weather permitting, from late December to late February. Don’t skate? No problem. Take a winter walk along the path with a warm drink in hand. Check the ice conditions before you go.

2. Experience Winterlude

   Each February, Ottawa transforms into a celebration of all things winter. From dazzling ice sculptures and snow playgrounds to live performances and Indigenous cultural displays, Winterlude is a must for families, couples, and solo travelers alike. Winterlude is held over the first three weekends of February and most activities are free.

3. Skiing at Gatineau Park

   Just a 20-minute drive from The Don Club, Gatineau Park offers over 200 km of groomed trails for cross-country skiing, with options for all skill levels. You’ll also find cozy heated shelters along the way. Daily or seasonal ski passes available at the Chelsea Visitor Centre.

   
   

Indoor Activities

1. Catch a Film or Live Show at One of Ottawa's Local Theatre

   Step into Ottawa’s indie theatre scene:

   - ByTowne Cinema – Independent films & documentaries

   - Mayfair Theatre – Cult classics & special screenings

   - Gladstone Theatre – Live performances from Ottawa’s talented theatre community

2. Explore Ottawa's Local Art Galleries

   Ottawa is filled with free galleries featuring both local and national talent:

   - Ottawa Art Gallery (OAG) which is always free

   - Karsh-Masson Gallery located inside City Hall

   - Galerie St-Laurent + Hill which is a commercial gallery with rotating exhibitions

3. Check out Ottawa's Spoken Live Poetry Scene

   Experience the heart of spoken word poetry in Ottawa with Urban Legends Poetry, known for electric slam poetry nights and open mics nights. Located at the Origin Arts and Community Centre in Hintonburg, 57 Lyndale Avenue, 8 min drive from us. Programming can be found here - https://urbanlegendspoetry.ca/

4. Check out Ottawa's Newest Open Jazz Jamming Club

   Jazz at 248 is Ottawa’s open jazz jam club — open six nights a week. Hear everything from bebop and ballads to Latin jazz and funk, in an intimate space where music and community collide. Go for the music, stay for the vibe. - https://jazzat248.wordpress.com/

No matter your preference, Ottawa in January offers a variety of activities that cater to both outdoor enthusiasts and those looking for indoor warmth. We’d love to help you plan your perfect winter stay. Just ask we know a few hidden gems, too.