As fall settles over the city, Ottawa offers crisp, cool air, vibrant foliage, cozy flavours, and endless opportunities for seasonal exploration. From scenic hikes and cycling routes to world-class museums, charming neighbourhoods, and local wine experiences, this season offers groups and FIT an unforgettable way to experience the city at its most colourful. |
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Hike through Ottawa's stunning fall colours |
The Ottawa region transforms into a spectacular display of colour during Fall Rhapsody. Autumn is one of the most beautiful times to explore the National Capital Region’s hiking trails.
Just 10 minutes from downtown, Gatineau Park offers more than 165 kilometres of scenic trails; and just outside Ottawa’s urban core, the National Capital Greenbelt features picturesque paths through farms, forests and wetlands, making it the perfect place to enjoy vibrant fall colours.
Groups and FIT can enjoy a more relaxed Gatineau Park experience by visiting on weekdays, exploring beyond the busiest trails and using the free shuttle, available from May to October. Shuttle service operates until October 25, 2026. |
Savour the season at Richmond Estate Winery |
Cozy up with a glass of wine in the autumn air. Nestled in the heart of the Richmond region, just 30 minutes from downtown Ottawa, the Richmond Estate Winery offers the ideal countryside escape.
The winery features guided tours and tasting experiences for both groups and FIT, as well as an on-site bistro.
Discover even more local vineyards with the Ottawa Tasting Passport. Designed to help you discover Ottawa’s best wineries, breweries, and cideries, the passport can be purchased online and offers savings on six tasting experiences, allowing you to visit at your own pace.
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Ottawa River Pathway behind Parliament Hill reopens |
Following the completion of major rehabilitation work, the Ottawa River Pathway behind Parliament Hill has reopened, offering pedestrians and cyclists stunning views of the changing season.
Part of the Capital Pathway network, this pathway connects to more than 200 kilometres of routes across the Ottawa-Gatineau region and provides direct access to the East Wharf Dock, one of the city's newest waterfront destinations complete with shoreline seating areas and a new platform for taking in the view.
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Museum Spotlight: The Royal Canadian Mint |
Explore one of the world’s largest mints. The Royal Canadian Mint produces hand-crafted collector and commemorative coins, gold and silver bullion coins, medals and medallions.
Groups can take an interactive 45-minute guided tour through the production process while uncovering stories from the Mint's rich history. Tours are offered in both English and French and visitors are invited to browse the Mint's boutique for unique Canadian gifts and keepsakes. |
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SYTA 2026 recap
See you in Ottawa 2027! |
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This year's Student & Youth Travel Association (SYTA) Annual Conference in Pittsburgh, PA was especially memorable for Ottawa Tourism. From Juan Pablo Suarez (Manager, Travel Trade) joining the SYTA Board of Directors and Kelly Dean (Director, Travel Trade) earning her Certified Student Travel Professional (CSTP) designation from SYTA, to networking with industry peers and promoting Ottawa as the host destination for the Annual Conference in 2027, it was an unforgettable event.
The excitement is now building for SYTA 2027, taking place in Canada’s capital from August 13-16. Team Ottawa looks forward to welcoming student travel professionals from across the world and showcasing why Ottawa is a leading destination for educational travel. |
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Inspire student travel with Ottawa Tourism’s new video |
Looking for fresh content to promote Ottawa as an incredible student travel destination? Ottawa Tourism's new student market video showcases how Canada's capital offers curriculum-connected learning, hands-on experiences and memorable student adventures.
Watch the video and visit Ottawa Tourism’s Travel Trade student page to discover why Ottawa continues to be Canada’s number one destination for educators and student groups.
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New travel trade representation for Germany & Benelux markets |
Ottawa continues to strengthen its presence in key international markets through a new partnership with Kleininger Consulting GmbH, in cooperation with ITN Marketing & PR.
Representing Ottawa across Germany, Belgium, the Netherlands and Luxembourg, the partnership brings valuable market expertise and established travel trade relationships that will help showcase Ottawa's rich cultural heritage, vibrant city life and exceptional outdoor experiences to European travelers. |
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Like what you're seeing? Spread the word to your fellow Travel Trade pros! They can subscribe to this quarterly newsletter here.
Connect with the Travel Trade team on Facebook. |
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