The reStayer: Ottawa Travel Blog

An insider perspective on what's happening in Ottawa and at reStays.

Crowds skating on a frozen canal in Ottawa near ReStays Ottawa, with the historic Parliament buildings in the background

Hello Winterlude 2025: Ottawa's biggest winter festival yet

Get ready to embrace the magic of winter as Ottawa's beloved Winterlude festival transforms Canada's capital region into a winter playground. Expect three weekends of family-friendly activities, the world's largest skating rink, stunning ice sculptures, and unforgettable experiences.

Crowds gather around a brightly lit Christmas tree at night near ReStays Ottawa

Top Activities in Ottawa during the Christmas Holidays

Whether you're looking to embrace the festive spirit, enjoy outdoor adventures, indulge in seasonal treats, escape to a spa, or in town for the 2025, IIHF World Junior Championship, Ottawa has something for everyone during Christmas vacation and reStays is ready to host you for a variety of needs. Discover our top things to do in the capital city this holiday season.

Interior of ReStays Ottawa features curved concrete and glass architecture, with natural light illuminating the area

Ottawa Conference & Entertainment Venues

Discover Ottawa's vibrant downtown, where the perfect venue awaits for your next event! From grand conferences at the Shaw Centre to intimate gatherings at reStays Hotel, this blog showcases locations that cater to every occasion. Dive in to explore stunning spaces, capacities, and unique features that will make your event truly unforgettable!

A tranquil lake surrounded by lush green trees, reflecting autumn colors under a cloudy sky, near ReStays Ottawa

Experience Fall Rhapsody in Ottawa

Fall Rhapsody in Ottawa is a captivating celebration of autumn, taking place until the end of October. This event highlights the stunning fall colours throughout the Nation's Capital and in Gatineau Park, offering visitors a chance to enjoy breathtaking views.

Bustling urban street scene featuring people walking among greenery, Canadian flags, and a sign for ReStays Ottawa

Discover the charm of Sparks Street Ottawa

Sparks Street is a must when exploring Ottawa. Read about what you may experience in this Downtown Ottawa blog article.

A vibrant music festival scene with a massive crowd, colorful tents, and a concert stage near ReStays Ottawa

Your Ottawa Bluesfest Survival Guide

A few tips on how to navigate the Ottawa Bluesfest like a pro!

Menu board displaying various wines & ciders with prices, alongside a peach slushy machine in a restaurant at ReStays Ottawa

Five Inspiring Day Trips from Ottawa

These unique day trips from Ottawa will keep you coming back for more!

How to Celebrate Canada Day like a true Ottawan

Canada Day get the ultimate treatment in Ottawa. Here are a few ways you can celebrate while you are at reStays.

A large crowd gathered at night for an outdoor concert near ReStays Ottawa, with vibrant stage lights illuminating the scene

Why you need to attend Ottawa's CityFolk Festival!

Curious about Folk Music? We're giving you more reasons to visit with a rundown on the benefits of Folk music and Ottawa's CityFolk Festival.

Your Guide to Ottawa Summer Festivals

Ottawa has so much to offer in the summer, and these experiences are music to our ears!

A cozy balcony breakfast and a vase of tulips, with a person in a bathrobe enjoying the view at ReStays Ottawa

5 Ways to Treat Mom on Mother's Day

We've highlighted a few ways you can pamper and delight your mom while staying with us.

Women toast with champagne coupes filled with different beverages, celebrating together in a cozy setting at ReStays Ottawa

The Art of Hosting Over the Holidays

Unveil the secrets to exceptional holiday hosting at reStays!

Fireworks illuminate the night sky above the historic Parliament building near ReStays Ottawa

Our best spots: Lac Leamy Fireworks in Ottawa

There is no better way to see Ottawa than with the skies lit up with colours - learn about our top places to see the Lac Leamy firework displays.

A juicy salmon fillet garnished with fresh rosemary served on a white plate atop a rustic wooden table at ReStays Ottawa

5 Canadian-Themed Meals to Cook at reStays

Unleash your inner chef using this curated list of meals you can cook in your own suite!

Sunlit urban courtyard featuring checkered paving, greenery, and modern architecture in ReStays Ottawa

Top Instagram-worthy Spots in Ottawa

Your guide to getting the best content in the city!

Tulips near Canadian Parliament near ReStays Ottawa

Get ready for the Canadian Tulip Festival!

Spring will soon be in bloom, and that means one thing if you’re travelling to Ottawa – the Canadian Tulip Festival is around the corner.

Kids looking at a map in the Museum near ReStays Ottawa

6 Things to Do in Ottawa With Your Kids

Just in time for March break, check out our top 6 things to do in Ottawa with your kids!

Kellie cooking in a kitchen at ReStays Ottawa

A Journey of Food and Culture with @kelliespantry!

Our guest chef @kelliespantry reveals her food and cooking journey.

Couple walking on a snowy night at ReStays Ottawa

Top Reasons to Visit Ottawa Over the Holidays!

There are so many good reasons to visit Ottawa during the winter Holidays and we've curated the reStays' ultimate list.

A woman holding a glass of wine by a window at ReStays Ottawa

More from @yowcitystyle!

reStayer Katie Hession shares her top places to explore while staying with us!

Lady wearing shades having a drink at ReStays Ottawa

Our Very Own @yowcitystyle Explorer Guide!

reStayer Katie Hession shares her favourite restaurants while staying with us.

IF I COULD GIVE IT AN 11/10, I WOULD

This hotel is perfect. It is spotless and has everything you need to be functional during your stay, from a stovetop to a washer and dryer. The staff is friendly. The common areas are quiet. We were there for Canada Day and the location was close to Parliament, which made it easy to access the site. Book without hesitation!

1/ 5

LOCATION IS SUPERB AND THE STAFF ARE WONDERFUL

I like how quiet this property was. It was very clean and comfortable with all essentials in the room, plus the location is superb and the staff are wonderful and very helpful. I will return to this property whenever I visit Ottawa—this is my place. Thanks to all the staff for making our stay so pleasant.

DAPHNE

2/ 5

HIGHLY RECOMMEND... LOVE THIS PLACE

Yet again, I stayed here for my weekend race in Ottawa. First, and most importantly, the staff are incredible! They remembered me from past visits and when i showed up, they asked how things were and about the race—Always saying "Hi" and seeing how things are when coming in and out. Second, room was perfect! Always clean and ready to go. Very comfortable place to stay, the beds are very comfy and I love the bathroom! Third, location couldnt be any better. Close to the Rideau Centre, Parliament, public transport, and plenty of restaurants. If you're someone looking at doing the Tamarack Race Weekend next year, its only a 5 minute walk to the start area. Highly recommend!! Love this place!!! Thank you for another wonderful visit!

RILEY

3/ 5

10 OUT OF 10, HANDS DOWN

A very clean and upscale boutique hotel that feels cozy and has tons of room. This will be my go-to stay whenever I'm in Ottawa. The receptionists during checkout, as well as checking in, were both superb in welcoming me to the hotel. Close to everything that downtown Ottawa has to offer.

COREY

4/ 5

EVERY VISIT IS A 10/10 EXPERIENCE

Definitely one of the best places to stay in the city. Every visit is a 10/10 experience from the spotless rooms and amazing amenities, to the welcoming atmosphere. Gillian, the Reservations Manager, always goes above and beyond and the front desk staff are always friendly and accommodating. Highly recommend for anyone looking for comfort, class and exceptional service.

BETH

5/ 5