Discover the Serenity of Dow's Lake
Explore the picturesque Dow's Lake in Ottawa, a serene destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts offering year-round recreational activities.
Nestled in the heart of Ottawa, Dow's Lake is a picturesque destination perfect for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. This stunning lake offers a serene escape with its lush surroundings, ideal for picnics, boating, and leisurely strolls. Visitors can explore the scenic pathways, enjoy vibrant seasonal blooms, and take part in various recreational activities year-round. Whether you’re in the mood for a peaceful kayak ride or a scenic bike ride along the water's edge, Dow's Lake provides a tranquil backdrop that captures the essence of Canada's natural beauty.
A brief summary to Dow's Lake
- Ottawa, Ontario, CA
Local tips
- Visit during the spring or summer for the best blooms and outdoor activities.
- Bring your own picnic to enjoy by the lake or explore local cafes for a bite.
- Dress warmly if visiting in winter to fully enjoy outdoor skating on the Rideau Canal.
- Check local event schedules for seasonal festivities and activities around the lake.
- Plan to arrive early on weekends to secure a good spot for picnicking or parking.
Getting There
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Car
If you are driving from downtown Edmonton, take the Yellowhead Highway (Highway 16) eastbound. Merge onto Highway 2 South towards Calgary. Continue on Highway 2, and then take the exit for Highway 401 East towards Ontario. Follow signs to Ottawa. Once in Ottawa, take the exit for Dow's Lake. The lake is located within the city, so use a GPS or map application for the final directions to reach the lake.
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Public Transportation
From Edmonton, take a Greyhound bus or VIA Rail service to Ottawa. Once in Ottawa, you can use local public transportation. Board the OC Transpo bus #85 from the Ottawa Central Station towards the Dow's Lake area. Get off at the Dow's Lake stop. The lake is a short walk from the bus stop.
Discover more about Dow's Lake
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Heart Island
0.7 km
Explore the serene charm of Heart Island, a beautiful park in Central Park, Ontario, perfect for picnics, walks, and enjoying nature's beauty.
Glebe Community Centre
1.1 km
Discover the vibrant community life at Glebe Community Centre, where culture, events, and local engagement come together in Ottawa's charming neighborhood.
Glebe Neighbourhood Activities Group
1.1 km
Experience community, culture, and creativity at the Glebe Neighbourhood Activities Group in Ottawa, a hub for social and recreational activities.
Central Park
1.5 km
Explore the serene beauty of Central Park in Ottawa, a cherished green space offering tranquility, recreational activities, and vibrant community events.
The Glebe Sign
1.7 km
Discover the vibrant spirit of The Glebe at the iconic Glebe Sign, a stunning sculpture reflecting Ottawa's rich cultural heritage.
Escape Manor - Hintonburg
2.1 km
Experience thrilling adventures at Escape Manor in Hintonburg, Ottawa's premier escape room destination for fun and teamwork.
Public Sculpture / The Boots Hydrant
2.1 km
Discover the whimsical Boots Hydrant in Ottawa, a unique public sculpture blending art and functionality in the heart of the city.
Maker House Co.
2.1 km
Explore Maker House Co. in Ottawa for unique gifts, local art, and artisanal treasures that capture the spirit of Canadian craftsmanship.
Victoria Memorial Museum
2.2 km
Discover the beauty of Canada's natural and cultural history at the Victoria Memorial Museum, a must-visit destination in Ottawa.
Hintonburg Connection
2.5 km
Explore the vibrant Hintonburg Connection, a hub of culture and creativity in Ottawa, perfect for visitors seeking local experiences.
Hilton Garden Inn Ottawa Downtown
2.7 km
Discover the heart of Canada from the comfort of Hilton Garden Inn Ottawa Downtown, your gateway to the nation's capital.
Enclave: The Ottawa Women's Monument
2.7 km
Explore the Enclave: The Ottawa Women's Monument, a historical landmark honoring women’s contributions to Canada’s vibrant culture and history.
Indigo Indigo Ottawa - Canadian War Museum
2.7 km
Explore Canada's rich military history at the Canadian War Museum in Gatineau, where stories of courage and sacrifice come to life through immersive exhibits.
Canadian Tribute to Human Rights
2.9 km
Explore the Canadian Tribute to Human Rights, a historical landmark in Ottawa that symbolizes the ongoing fight for freedom and equality.
Bronson Channel Ruins
2.9 km
Explore the Bronson Channel Ruins, a captivating historical landmark in Ottawa, where the stories of the past meet stunning riverside views.
Unmissable attractions to see
Dow's Lake Peninsula
0.2 km
Explore the serene beauty of Dow's Lake Peninsula in Ottawa, a scenic spot perfect for outdoor adventures and peaceful escapes.
Dows Lake Pavilion
0.4 km
Discover the tranquility of Dows Lake Pavilion, a stunning marina and park in Ottawa ideal for kayaking, picnicking, and enjoying nature's beauty.
Hosta Garden
0.5 km
Explore the serene beauty of the Hosta Garden in Ottawa, a botanical haven featuring a stunning collection of lush hosta varieties amidst tranquil landscapes.
Commissioners Park
0.5 km
Explore the natural beauty and vibrant gardens of Commissioners Park, a serene urban oasis in the heart of Ottawa, perfect for relaxation and exploration.
FCEF Friends of the Central Experimental Farm
0.5 km
Explore the Friends of the Central Experimental Farm: a serene oasis of gardens and agricultural heritage in the heart of Ottawa.
Dominion Arboretum
0.6 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of the Dominion Arboretum in Ottawa, where diverse plant life and serene landscapes await nature lovers.
Experimental Farm Gardens
0.8 km
Explore the Experimental Farm Gardens in Ottawa: a vibrant oasis of horticultural beauty and serene landscapes perfect for nature lovers and visitors.
Ornamental Gardens
0.8 km
Discover the stunning Ornamental Gardens in Ottawa, a serene botanical haven showcasing diverse flora and tranquil landscapes, perfect for nature lovers.
Fletcher Wildlife Garden
0.9 km
Discover the serene beauty of Fletcher Wildlife Garden, a wildlife refuge in Ottawa, where nature thrives and education meets adventure.
Tropical Greenhouse
1.0 km
Discover the Tropical Greenhouse in Ottawa, a serene haven of exotic plants and vibrant flora, perfect for nature lovers and families.
Canada Agriculture and Food Museum
1.0 km
Discover Canada's agricultural heritage at the Canada Agriculture and Food Museum in Ottawa, where interactive exhibits and farm experiences await.
Rideau Canal
1.0 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty and vibrant activities of the Rideau Canal, Ottawa's iconic UNESCO World Heritage site, year-round.
Dominion Observatory
1.0 km
Discover the celestial wonders and rich history at the Dominion Observatory in Ottawa, a must-visit destination for astronomy lovers and curious travelers.
Canadensis Botanical Garden
1.1 km
Explore the beauty of the Canadensis Botanical Garden in Ottawa, a serene escape filled with vibrant flora and peaceful pathways.
Central Experimental Farm
1.2 km
Explore the Central Experimental Farm in Ottawa: A lush historical landmark showcasing agricultural innovation and stunning gardens.
Essential places to dine
Atelier
0.7 km
Experience Ottawa's premier fine dining at Atelier, where culinary artistry meets seasonal ingredients in an intimate setting.
EVOO Greek Kitchen
0.8 km
Experience authentic Greek cuisine at EVOO Greek Kitchen in Ottawa's Little Italy—where every dish tells a story of tradition and flavor.
Pub Italia
0.8 km
Savor authentic Italian cuisine in the heart of Ottawa’s Little Italy at Pub Italia – where every meal feels like a celebration.
Mati
0.9 km
Experience exquisite modern European cuisine at Mati in Ottawa's Little Italy - where fresh seafood meets premium steak in an elegant setting.
Giovanni's Restaurant
1.0 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and fine dining elegance at Giovanni's Restaurant in Ottawa's Little Italy.
Perch Restaurant
1.3 km
Experience Ottawa's culinary scene at Perch Restaurant - where local flavors meet innovative cuisine in a charming Little Italy setting.
The Rowan
1.3 km
Discover Ottawa's culinary delight at The Rowan - where British cuisine meets local flavors in a vibrant gastropub setting.
Jericho
1.3 km
Discover the flavors of the Middle East at Jericho in Ottawa's Glebe neighborhood – where every dish tells a story.
DreamLand Cafe
1.4 km
Discover the heart of Little Italy at DreamLand Cafe - where authentic Italian flavors meet cozy ambiance.
Feleena's
1.4 km
Experience authentic Mexican flavors at Feleena's in Ottawa's charming Glebe neighborhood - a culinary gem for every traveler.
Med Supper Club
1.4 km
Experience Ottawa's vibrant dining scene at Med Supper Club – where brunch meets creativity and cocktails flow.
The St. Rita
1.4 km
Discover authentic Italian flavors at The St. Rita in Ottawa's Glebe – a must-visit pizza restaurant offering exquisite dishes for all tastes.
Cantina Gia
1.4 km
Discover the authentic taste of Italy at Cantina Gia in Ottawa's Glebe neighborhood, where every dish tells a story.
La Strada Restaurant
1.5 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at La Strada Restaurant in Ottawa's charming Glebe neighborhood, where every dish celebrates tradition and flavor.
Crust & Crate Fast Fired Pizza Pub
1.5 km
Experience the perfect blend of traditional pizza-making and modern gastropub flair at Crust & Crate in Ottawa's Glebe neighborhood.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Vincent
0.8 km
Explore the stylish and unique offerings at Vincent, Ottawa's premier women's clothing boutique in the heart of Little Italy.
The Merry Dancers Old Book and Antique Emporium
1.4 km
Discover a hidden gem in Ottawa's Glebe neighborhood, The Merry Dancers Old Book and Antique Emporium offers a unique blend of literature and antiques for every enthusiast.
viens avec moi
1.4 km
Explore the heart of Ottawa's fashion scene at Viens Avec Moi, a boutique offering unique clothing and accessories that reflect local artistry.
Penelope Jones & Co.
1.4 km
Explore Penelope Jones & Co. for unique vintage glassware and home goods in Ottawa's Glebe neighborhood.
Stomping Ground
1.4 km
Discover unique men's fashion at Stomping Ground in Ottawa's Glebe - where style meets individuality.
The Garden Of Light
1.4 km
Explore the enchanting Garden of Light in Ottawa, where unique gifts and stunning crystals await to create unforgettable memories.
Beauty Boutique by Shoppers Drug Mart
1.4 km
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Escape Women's Clothing Store
1.5 km
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Passé
1.6 km
Discover unique vintage fashion treasures at Passé, Ottawa's charming vintage clothing store in Little Italy, offering styles that tell a story.
Bad Dog Co.
1.6 km
Explore Bad Dog Co. in Ottawa's Glebe for unique vintage clothing, accessories, and a delightful shopping experience that celebrates timeless fashion.
Goody Mart
1.6 km
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Ragtime Vintage Clothing
1.9 km
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A Fine Thing Furniture
1.9 km
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Oriental Charm
1.9 km
Explore Oriental Charm: A hidden gem in Ottawa offering unique gifts, artisanal bags, and home decor that celebrate local culture.
The Modern Shop
2.0 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Umbrella Bar
0.4 km
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The Moonroom
0.8 km
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LATINOS RESTO-BAR
0.9 km
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CRAFT Beer Market Ottawa
1.3 km
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Irene's Pub Restaurant
1.3 km
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107 Fourth Avenue Wine Bar & Café
1.4 km
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Glebe Central Pub
1.4 km
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Montgomery Scotch Lounge
1.4 km
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LOCAL Public Eatery Lansdowne
1.5 km
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Patty's Pub
1.5 km
Patty's Pub in Old Ottawa South: A Cozy Retreat with Great Food, Local Brews, and Lively Atmosphere.
Jack Astor's Bar & Grill Lansdowne
1.6 km
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Thr33's Co. Snack Bar
1.6 km
Discover Thr33's Co. Snack Bar in Ottawa's Glebe - a vibrant blend of snacks, drinks, and community spirit awaits you.
WARD 14
1.7 km
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The Senate Tavern on Wellington
2.1 km
Discover The Senate Tavern in Ottawa: A lively sports bar and gastropub with delicious food, craft drinks, and a vibrant atmosphere for all sports fans.
10Fourteen
2.1 km
Indulge in innovative cocktails and savory tapas at 10Fourteen, Ottawa's premier cocktail bar for a memorable night out.
