Things to do in Ottawa when you’re awake

Heading up to Ottawa for Christmas and New Year’s with the in-laws. Other than Parliament, any ideas on things to do?

Also, their idea of a vacation involves nothing before noon. That’s not my style, so I usually break away for the morning hours and do something like walk around a cool neighborhood. Any ideas there are much appreciated.

Thanks.

 

If you skate, take yours along and spend a morning skating on the Rideau Canal, which goes through the middle of the city. You might be able to rent a pair as well. Ottawa is not known for a great nightlife scene but the Byward Market area downtown has lots of pubs and restaurants.

 

I'm reading this thread in the voices of Kids In The Hall characters.

 

If gambling is your thing, there’s a casino across the river in Gatineau, Québec.

 

If peeler bars are your thing, well...I got nothing. I just like using the hilarious phrase "peeler bar" whenever I can.

 

Leave.

 

Head on down to Listowel and pick a fight with a degen.

 

Go back to sleep?

 

Elgin Street Diner was a pretty good round-the-clock joint to grab something to eat back in the day

 

The Ottawa 67's are one of the best junior hockey teams in Canada. They have a home game - 2 p.m. start - on the 29th. They play downtown on Bank St. right next to the canal.

 

Fight?

 

IMHO, that would be a better option than seeing the Senators. Obviously less expensive, as well.