Last minute ideas for an Ottawa Valentine’s Day!

Source:

https://www.ottawatourism.ca/ottawa-insider/10-romantic-ideas-for-an-ottawa-valentines-day/

From romantic outings like gourmet meals and spa treatments, to unique options like cuddling with cats and cracking up, couples (and singles) can easily find their perfect match this Valentine’s Day. Here are just a few things taking place throughout the Ottawa area on and around Feb. 14, 2020:

Wild romance

For a truly unforgettable experience, plan an overnight visit to Park Omega and stay in one of their cozy cabins surrounded by beautiful wolves! The rustic yet luxurious Wolf Cabins are outfitted with panoramic windows overlooking the wolf pack’s territory. Sit back and enjoy the sights and sounds from the fully equipped space complete with bed, living area, kitchenette and bathroom. While at Park Omega, make sure you to go on a Canadian-style safari to see other majestic animals, and take a stroll or snowshoe on the First Nations trail. You’ll feel like you’re a world away from the city, even though you’ll be just a 45-minute drive from downtown Ottawa in Montebello, Que.

Atomic amour

The Diefenbunker: Canada’s Cold War Museum asks “How deep is your love”? It can be 80 feet deep when you’re on the Underground Wine and Cheese Tour on Feb. 15! During a special guided tour of this National Historic Site, you’ll stop at several locations to sample delicious cheeses and wine pairings, and take memorable selfies at the photo booth in the Tunnel of Love (aka Blast Tunnel)! Non-couples are also welcome.

Set the stage for love

Get tickets to an entertaining show at one of Ottawa’s great performance venues like the National Arts CentreLa Nouvelle Scène and Centrepointe Theatre. You’ll find a variety of programming offered in English and French around Valentine’s Day including music, dance and theatre. (May we suggest you start your evening at one of Ottawa’s great restaurants?)

Tasty tours

If you’re having trouble choosing from all the great Ottawa restaurants, get assistance from a company like Ottawa Tasting Tours! Their progressive tours include one course at multiple venues in one evening (some tours include wine and local craft beer pairings). Each tour focuses on a foodie neighbourhood like the ByWard Market, the Glebe or Hintonburg, and options include private tours (for two people), group experiences, self-led evenings, or the assistance of a knowledgeable guide.

Dining, gaming and partying

The Casino du Lac Leamy has everything you need to woo that special someone – without even stepping outside! Dine at one of its multiple restaurants, including the high end Le Baccara; try your luck at the casino games; and dance the night away at the VIP club Aléa. For the full experience, stay at the on-site Hilton Lac Leamy and book a spa treatment with your partner. If you’re staying over until Sunday morning, don’t miss the brunch at Banco Bistro!

Spa mecca

If a relaxing, romantic day or evening are what you’re after, consider spending Valentine’s Day together at Nordik Spa-Nature. Located at just a short drive north of downtown Ottawa in Chelsea, Que., Nordik is the largest spa of its kind in North America. Enjoy Scandinavian-inspired facilities like cold and warm pools, hot tubs, saunas, as well as massages and treatments. Try the Källa treatment (the only salt-water floating pool in America) or just lounge in the heated infinity pool that overlooks Ottawa’s twinkling downtown cityscape. With multiple dining spaces on site, you’ll never want to leave…

Winterlude magic

When you need an excuse to cuddle up, go outdoors and explore official Winterlude sites and events. This year, you’ll see professionally carved ice sculptures of all shapes and sizes (that are beautifully lit up at night) on Sparks Street. And skate hand in hand on the moonlit Rideau Canal Skateway (the world’s largest skating rink) while sharing an iconic Beavertail pastry. It may be cliché, but proposals do happen on this famous ice. And the best part? Access to Winterlude sites is FREE!

Purr-fect evening

Cat lover? The Feline Café in trendy Hintonburg has you covered (potentially in cat hair) over Valentine’s week. On the evenings of Feb. 11 through 16, they’re offering a Date Night package which includes beverages, desserts and a one-hour reservation in the cat lounge. Best of all, a portion of each ticket supports a local cat charity, and all the kitties are available for adoption!

Laugh away Valentine’s Day

Whether you and your date love to laugh, or you’re single and looking to giggle, hilarity is always on the menu at Yuk Yuk’s on Elgin Street. On Feb. 14 and 15, the comedy club is presenting Scott Thompson (of “Kids in the Hall” fame) in his show “Après le Déluge: The Buddy Cole Monologues”.

Just for singles

Still looking for that special someone? Sign up for one of the dating events being held over Valentine’s Day weekend. SpeedOttawa Dating is hosting a classic matchmaking event at the Lieutenant’s Pump on Feb. 14.

Alex Sarazin