Ottawa summers are beautiful—but they can also be surprisingly hot.
With temperatures often climbing above 30°C, and humidex values pushing into the high 30s or even low 40s, spending long periods outdoors can quickly become uncomfortable and even dangerous.
Whether you're new to Ottawa or have lived here for years, knowing where to cool off can make all the difference during a heat wave.
From beaches and splash pads to air-conditioned museums and shaded walking trails, here are some of the best ways to stay cool this summer in Ottawa.
🌊 Spend the Day at Petrie Island
If you're looking for a beach day without leaving the city, Petrie Island is one of Ottawa's best options.
Located in the east end, it offers:
Sandy beaches
Swimming
Paddleboarding
Kayaking
Picnic areas
Nature trails
Arrive early on weekends, as parking fills up quickly during hot weather.
🏖️ Cool Off at Mooney's Bay
One of Ottawa's most popular summer destinations.
Why locals love it:
Supervised beach
Volleyball courts
Large grassy areas
Walking paths
Close to restaurants and cafés
It's a great place to spend an afternoon with friends or family.
🚣 Rent a Kayak or Paddleboard at Dow's Lake
Sometimes the best way to beat the heat is to get out on the water.
At Dow's Lake, you can rent:
Kayaks
Canoes
Paddleboards
Pedal boats
Afterward, grab lunch or ice cream in nearby Little Italy.
💦 Visit One of Ottawa's Splash Pads
If you have young children, Ottawa has dozens of splash pads across the city.
Some favourites include:
Mooney's Bay
Lansdowne Park
Millennium Park (Orléans)
Walter Baker Park (Barrhaven)
Jules Morin Park (Kanata)
They're free and perfect for cooling off.
🌳 Walk Through the Dominion Arboretum
Not every summer activity has to involve water.
The Dominion Arboretum offers:
Mature shade trees
River views
Beautiful gardens
Quiet walking trails
Early mornings and evenings are especially enjoyable during hot weather.
❄️ Escape into Ottawa's Museums
Need a break from the heat?
Ottawa's museums offer a cool, air-conditioned escape.
Great options include:
Canadian Museum of Nature
National Gallery of Canada
Canadian War Museum
Canadian Museum of History
Canada Science and Technology Museum
You'll stay cool while exploring some of Canada's best cultural attractions.
🍦 Grab Some Ice Cream
Few things beat Ottawa heat like a cold treat.
Some local favourites include:
Merry Dairy
Moo Shu Ice Cream
Carp Custom Creamery
Lois 'N' Frima's
Stella Luna Gelato Café
Whether you prefer classic soft serve or handcrafted gelato, Ottawa has plenty of options.
🚴 Ride the Ottawa River Pathway
If you're cycling, choose shaded routes whenever possible.
The Ottawa River Pathway provides:
River breezes
Scenic views
Plenty of shaded sections
Stops for water and snacks
Try riding in the morning or later in the evening to avoid peak heat.
🌅 Take an Evening Walk Instead
When daytime temperatures soar, simply shift your plans.
Some beautiful evening walks include:
Major's Hill Park
Rideau Canal
Westboro Beach
Andrew Haydon Park
Hogs Back Falls
You'll enjoy cooler temperatures and some incredible sunset views.
☕ Work From an Air-Conditioned Café
If you work remotely, consider leaving the house for a few hours.
Popular cafés include:
Happy Goat Coffee
Bridgehead
Equator Coffee
Little Victories Coffee
Arlington Five
You'll stay productive without overworking your home's air conditioning.
🛍️ Spend Time Indoors
When temperatures become extreme, there's nothing wrong with enjoying a little air conditioning.
Shopping centres like:
Rideau Centre
Bayshore Shopping Centre
Place d'Orléans
Tanger Outlets (covered indoor stores available)
offer a comfortable place to escape the afternoon heat.
💧 Stay Hydrated
One of the easiest ways to prevent heat-related illness is to drink water regularly.
Tips include:
Carry a reusable water bottle.
Drink before you feel thirsty.
Avoid too much caffeine or alcohol when spending long hours outdoors.
Refill your bottle at public fountains around the city.
🏡 Keep Your Home Cooler
The summer heat doesn't stop at your front door.
A few simple steps can help keep your home comfortable:
Close blinds during the afternoon.
Use ceiling fans to circulate air.
Open windows overnight when temperatures drop.
Change your furnace/AC filter regularly.
Avoid using the oven during peak heat.
Small changes can make a noticeable difference.
🐶 Don't Forget Your Pets
Hot pavement can burn your dog's paws in seconds.
During heat waves:
Walk early in the morning or later in the evening.
Bring water on every walk.
Never leave pets in a parked vehicle.
Check pavement with your hand before walking.
Your furry friends will appreciate it.
🌡️ Know the Signs of Heat Exhaustion
Watch for symptoms such as:
Dizziness
Heavy sweating
Nausea
Muscle cramps
Headache
Fatigue
If symptoms worsen or someone becomes confused or loses consciousness, seek medical attention immediately.
My Favourite Ways to Beat the Heat
If you asked me how I'd spend a hot Ottawa weekend, it would look something like this:
Morning: Walk through the Dominion Arboretum before the heat sets in.
Afternoon: Head to Petrie Island for a swim or rent a paddleboard at Dow's Lake.
Evening: Dinner on a patio in Little Italy followed by ice cream from Stella Luna and a sunset walk along the Rideau Canal.
It's a simple way to enjoy summer while staying as comfortable as possible.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best beach in Ottawa?
Petrie Island and Mooney's Bay are two of Ottawa's most popular beaches, offering swimming, picnic areas, and family-friendly amenities.
Where can I cool off indoors?
Ottawa's museums, shopping centres, libraries, and cafés all provide excellent air-conditioned spaces during extreme heat.
Are Ottawa splash pads free?
Yes. The City of Ottawa operates dozens of free splash pads throughout the summer.
What are the best evening walks in Ottawa?
The Rideau Canal, Major's Hill Park, Westboro Beach, Andrew Haydon Park, and the Dominion Arboretum are all beautiful options.
How can I keep my house cool without running the air conditioner all day?
Close blinds during the hottest part of the day, use fans, open windows overnight, and limit heat-generating appliances like ovens and dryers.
Is Ottawa humidity really that bad?
It can be. While temperatures may reach 30°C, the humidex often makes it feel much hotter, especially in July and August.
Final Thoughts
Summer is one of the best times to enjoy everything Ottawa has to offer—but it's important to respect the heat. Whether you're spending the day at Petrie Island, exploring an air-conditioned museum, paddling across Dow's Lake, or relaxing under the shade of the Dominion Arboretum, there are plenty of ways to stay comfortable during Ottawa's hottest days.
And if you're staying home, a little preventative maintenance—like keeping your air conditioner serviced, closing your blinds, and staying hydrated—can go a long way.
Stay safe, stay cool, and enjoy another great Ottawa summer.
