Best places around Ottawa to cool down this summer

It's summertime and temperatures in the National Capital Region are sizzling – especially when you bake in “feels like” factors such as humidity, so a thirty-one-degree temperature “feels like” forty-two.  

Fortunately, there are plenty of places in the area where you can beat the summer heat for free while you relax and cool down. These include public beaches, splash pads, wading pools in shady parks, and public docks.  

New NCC docks on the Ottawa River 

With the success of the NCC’s Rockcliffe River House refurbishment, which reopened in 2023, the NCC has added two new docks on the Ottawa River where seasoned swimmers can enjoy a cool dip. There’s the East Wharf Dock, at the foot of Major’s Hill Park, while across the river there’s the Canadian Museum of History Dock, located behind the museum.  

Both offer spectacular views, and if it feels like you're swimming in a picture-postcard location, it's because you are. There’s also the Dow’s Lake Recreational Dock, and you can learn about water quality and other features of these docks by visiting the NCC recreational docks site.   

Other docks along the Rideau River and Rideau Canal are also great ways to cool down and enjoy a breeze off the water. Or head out on the water, if you launch a kayak or paddle board from one.  

Beaches galore 

There are many river beaches on both sides of the Ottawa River. On the Gatineau side, consider popular spots such as Lac Leamy, Parc Mousette, and Parc des Cèdres (next to the Aylmer Marina).  

In Ottawa’s east end, there are the beaches and picnic spots of Petrie Island, while in the west end there’s Westboro and Britannia beaches. Plus, ice cream lovers visiting Britannia can indulge themselves at the renowned Beachconers Microcreamery. Aside from Westboro, all the beaches are next to large parks, making them ideal for picnics.  

Mooney’s Bay Beach is on the Rideau River in the south end, on Riverside Drive, just past Hog’s Back. The beach is part of a large park with many different amenities, beach rentals and picnic spots.   

Before you go, check the local beach water quality to make an informed decision about whether to go for a swim.   

The Pond 

A hidden gem in the city is The Pond in Rockcliffe Park, located on Pond Street, with access from Hemlock Road via Whitemarl Drive. To get to the beach, descend the wooden staircase and hop into the water, then swim to the left to access the beach for an afternoon of quiet suburban bliss.  

If you’re going, head there early, because The Pond is in the Caldwell Carver Conservation Area, which includes McKay Lake and walking paths, so swimming times are limited from 7 a.m. until 2 p.m.   

Outdoor wading pools and splash pads 

Wading pools and splash pads dot city parks across Ottawa, which are great places to beat the heat with youngsters. You can pack a snack to make it a picnic outing.   

You can check the opening hours and locations near you before planning your day on these city websites for splash pads and wading pools. 

Picturesque picnic spots 

Looking for something more water-adjacent than water-focused? Ottawa is a green city with some incredible parks perfect for picnics, cycling, and just hanging out. Major’s Hill Park is behind the Château Laurier, with great views of Parliament Hill and the Ottawa River.  

There’s also The Dominion Arboretum, which is part of the Experimental Farm, next to Dow’s Lake. You can stroll through the 35 hectares of picnic space, set among more than 2,000 varieties of trees, plants, and gardens. 

The Adawe Crossing is the pedestrian and cycling bridge between Strathcona Park and Vanier’s Riverain Park, linking the Rideau Sports Club on one side to the playgrounds, picnic areas and waterfront on the other side. On both sides, the riverbank has lovely tree cover and gently slopes down to the river.