Whether you want to spoil mom at the spa, shop ’til you drop, or treat her to afternoon tea, there’s plenty to choose from in and around Ottawa. 

Things to Do on Mother’s Day in Ottawa

1. Relax at Le Nordik

As the largest spa in North America, the award-winning Le Nordik is the pinnacle of pampering destinations and the perfect spot for a Mother’s Day treat. Enjoy treatments and massages, soak away the stress with a float in the state of the art salt water Källa tank, or simply relax and unwind by the amazing infinity pool—a wonderful way to spoil Mom and make memories together.

Where: Nordic Spa Nature, 16 Chemin Nordik, Chelsea

2. Explore Lansdowne Park

Lansdowne Park is a fascinating place to explore on Mother’s Day—offering something for everyone whatever your style. Browse the shops for that perfect gift, or stop for a bite at one of the many great eateries in the area. Enjoy beautifully landscaped open spaces, watch the dancing fountains in the Water Plaza, and explore a selection of heritage buildings including the Aberdeen Pavillion, known locally as the Cattle Castle due to its hosting of agricultural shows over the years. The Tulip Festival falls over Mother’s Day in the Horticultural Building giving visitors to Lansdowne Park even more to explore. 

Where: Lansdowne Park, 50 Queen Elizabeth Dr, Ottawa

3. Dine at Chateau Laurier

If you are looking for sophistication on Mother’s Day, consider a visit to Chateau Laurier, located in the center of the Downtown area. It’s the perfect stop off while exploring the city. Enjoy drinks on La Terrasse overlooking the Parliament buildings and Rideau Canal or book into Zoe’s lounge for a delicate afternoon tea featuring salmon sandwiches and cucumber croissants.

Where: Chateau Laurier, 1 Rideau Street, Ottawa

4. Visit a City of Ottawa Museums

Looking for a more high-brow way to spend Mother’s Day? Indulge in a bit of Canadian culture at one of the many City of Ottawa Museums. Choose the Canadian Museum of Nature, which hosts a program of special events for the occasion, including a delicious buffet brunch made especially for moms. Younger families may prefer a day out at the Canadian Children’s Museum, which offers an interactive introduction to art, culture, and history.

Where: Canadian Museum of Nature, 240 McLeod St, Ottawa and Canadian Children’s Museum, 100 Laurier St, Gatineau

5. Tour the Tulip Festival

Say it with flowers this Mother’s Day and take a trip to the Tulip Festival where you can enjoy amazing blooms gifted to Canada by the Dutch. The tulips symbolize friendship between the countries and commemorate the birth of a Dutch princess in Canada during the Second World War, an apt theme for a Mother’s Day outing. The festival hosts a special Mother’s Day brunch in the Tulip Cafe, with all proceeds going to charity

Where: The Tulip Festival, The Horticulture Building, 203-1525 Princess Patricia Way, Ottawa

6. Shop at Rideau Centre

Want to treat the woman who has treated you so well? How about treating her to a Mother’s Day shopping spree at the delightful Rideau Centre? This purpose-built mall in the city centre is a bright and inviting place to shop with four floors of stores where you are almost guaranteed to find that perfect gift.

Where: Rideau Centre, 50 Rideau St #300, Ottawa

7. Enjoy a Meal at the Strathmere

This rural idyll is an oasis away from urban Ottawa and an amazing destination for a beautiful and memorable Mother’s Day brunch. Set in 200 acres complete with a 19th-century farmhouse and barn, Strathmere is home to the Retreat Cafe, an adult only dining space offering homegrown, organic eco-friendly foods to nourish body and soul. Choose from Belgian waffles, baked eggs, or a croque madame on artisan bread.

Where: Strathmere, 1980 Phelan Rd W, North Gower

8. Gatineau Park

If you want to celebrate Mother’s Day in the great outdoors around Ottawa, then you can’t get better than Gatineau Park. This conservation park boasts amazing plant and animal life as well as some truly stunning scenery. Head for the Lac des Feés (Lake of the Fairys) or Folly Bog to see some of the park’s most valued flora and fauna. For family fun why not try the dedicated mountain bike trails? Or head up to one of the scenic lookouts to snap that happy family photo.

Where: Gatineau Park, 33 Scott Road, Old Chelsea

9. Tea Party Cafe

Round off a great Mother’s Day with afternoon tea at the Tea Party Cafe. Choose from two Alice in Wonderland-themed menus, each featuring delicious vegetarian treats and fresh home baking, all of which can be enjoyed in this quaint and cozy Byward Market cafe.

Where: Tea Party Cafe, 119 York St, Ottawa

Whether you are planning a pamper, searching for the perfect gift or simply looking to spend some time together over afternoon tea, choosing to spend Mother’s Day in Ottawa offers an exciting selection of attractions and activities to explore. Whatever you decide to do you can be sure it will be wonderful opportunity to create new special memories with Mom.