Next Stop: OTTAWA

Why the nation’s capital is high on our weekend getaway list.

IF YOU ARE STILL MULLING over your fall plans but looking for a spot that offers food, art, culture and outdoorsy opportunities in equal measure, think of Ottawa. This vibrant city is our go-to destination for award-winning restaurants, soul-soothing nature and so much more. Read on for our tried-and-true weekend itinerary, including a chic hotel to make your home base.

WHERE TO STAY

Searching for a cozy nest from which to explore the nation’s capital? Consider LE GERMAIN HOTEL OTTAWA, a Canadian family-owned four-star luxury boutique hotel that has all the charm and amenities you could ask for. Everything has been thought of here: heavenly beds, rooms designed for your ultimate comfort and flexible checkout times. (Did we mention it’s pet-friendly?) The best part is, Le Germain puts you within walking distance of pretty much everything the city has to offer.

WHAT TO EAT

Foodies, take note: Ottawa has become a bona fide restaurant destination with tons of outstanding dining options. Snag a seat at SUPPLY AND DEMAND for impressive pastas and veggie-forward dishes; sip on a pét-nat at ARLO, a natural-wine bar and restaurant just off Bank Street; and hit up CANTINA GIA for one of the city’s best brunches. For an extra-special evening, head to Norca, on the second floor of Le Germain Hotel Ottawa, which boasts a menu that marries Canadian ingredients with generous cuisine and is led by chef Suhel Abraham.

WHAT TO SEE

For a cultural experience like no other, go on a self-guided art tour. Between the highly respected local galleries and national institutions—including the NATIONAL GALLERY OF CANADA—there is so much visual beauty to experience. Another top-tier option is the OTTAWA ART GALLERY, which is conveniently connected to Le Germain Hotel Ottawa and highlights artists from the region. Bonus: During your visit, be sure to visit the Gallery’s JACKSON CAFÉ for an exquisite bite from award-winning local bakery MAISON ODDO.

WHERE TO GO

Good news if you love the great outdoors: Ottawa is a city that inspires you to get outside and get active in all seasons. Rent a bike and cycle along the RIDEAU CANAL on a 13-kilometre path dotted with inviting stops and stunning scenery, or if you’ve got a hike in mind, lace up and head to GATINEAU PARK—it’s one of the largest green spaces in the region and a prime spot for fall-foliage watching.