Ottawa Summer Bucket List on a Budget

Ottawa is the perfect city if traveling on a budget as it’s packed with free or nearly free attractions, cultural activities, and affordable eats – making it a great destination for students or anyone looking to save money. Canada’s charming capital city, located along the beautiful Ottawa River in Ontario, is one of my favorite places to visit and as a single parent I appreciate the budget friendly options. Here are some of my bucket list ideas to get you started. Bon Voyage! 

Explore Canadian Democracy on Parliament Hill 

Pose for photos outside Canada’s impressive Parliament Buildings and walk around the pretty grounds. The Centennial Flame, originally built as a temporary monument, burns on top of a fountain and each side displays the coat of arms of a province or territory. Located inside the Queen’s Gate, it’s in front of the mighty Peace Tower. If feeling energetic, walk to the Parliament Hill Escarpment Stairway, it’s 286 steps down and provides epic views of Ottawa.  

Free Educational Attractions and Tours 

Bucket list freebies extend to world class museums, tours, and attractions. The Ottawa Art Gallery is a wonderful place to admire unique collections from regional artists and has free admission. After exploring the colourful artwork, relax with a coffee at their Jackson Café. On Thursdays enjoy free admission to the permanent exhibits at Canadian Museum of Nature (5 – 8pm), Canadian War Museum (5 – 7pm), and Canadian Museum of History (5 – 7pm) located on the banks of the Ottawa River in Gatineau and walkable from downtown Ottawa. Canada Aviation and Space Museum has free daily admission (4 – 5pm) and I recommend the Life in Orbit exhibit to learn about the International Space Station. 

Stay overnight in a former prison 

Speaking of true crime, check into Saintlo Ottawa Jail Hostel to not only save money, but for the unique experience of sleeping in a real cell block at a former prison. It’s over 150 years old and home to notorious events, escapes, and was one of the last prisons in Canada with execution scaffolds. The original old stone walls, window bars, and heavy iron doors remain. But don’t worry, they have added comforts like linens, towels, electric outlets, and ceiling fans.

Accommodations include private cell rooms or shared rooms with options of four, six, eight, or 10 beds. Centrally located and within walking distance of attractions, it’s the perfect opportunity to meet other travelers in the hidden courtyard on Friday evenings for happy hour. Save money with free breakfast in the mornings and fascinating guided jail tours are open to the public and free for hostel guests. 

Unplug and relax in nature 

The National Capital Greenbelt is a beautifully protected eco haven encircling Ottawa. With 20,000 hectares of green space it’s the most ecologically diverse area in Eastern Ontario and a must-visit. It’s the ideal place for a picnic, birdwatching, hiking, walking, or going on a self-guided tour such as the Mer Bleue Bog.

Cheers to affordable eats and drinks 

Reasonably priced restaurants and local food shops are plentiful. Coffee lovers head to Happy Goat Coffee Company, with 14 locations throughout Ottawa they serve up good vibes and a steamy cup of joe. Wei’s Noodle House serves flavourful Asian fusion cuisine and is known for generous portions and vegan options. 

Byward Market, one of Canada’s oldest public markets, is a unique heritage destination to shop, be entertained, and of course, enjoy a delicious meal. I love picking up fresh fruit and veggies from local farmers. Come nightfall, students mingle on Byward Market’s York Street at The 27 Club listening to live music; on Clarence Street at El Furniture Warehouse where they serve cheap drinks on a rooftop bar; and other chill clubs and pubs on Murray Street and Dalhousie Street.