© Claire Kowalewicz
Photo: Tourisme Outaouais
Whether you are a participant or a family member supporting a loved one, the Outaouais offers a myriad of activities to do while you’re in the region. The Outaouais is the perfect place to spend unforgettable moments before, during or after your sporting event. Discover our suggestions for activities and where to rest so that your stay in the region is as enjoyable as possible.
The Outaouais offers several outdoor activities so you can get out of the arena and admire beautiful landscapes. Take a hike in the Gatineau Park and discover over 360 sq.km of forest. Discover breathtaking scenery and spectacular lookouts such as the famous Champlain Lookout. With its ruins and trails, the Mackenzie King Estate is a true haven of peace, perfect for a relaxing walk in the heart of nature. The Centre de plein air du Lac-Leamy is a beautiful destination where visitors can discover the wonders of nature and the outdoors. Canoes, kayaks, and other watercraft are available for rent, allowing visitors to make the most of their time in the region. For mountain biking enthusiasts, Centre Vorlage is the perfect destination. Nestled in nature, the centre offers more than 20 km of scenic trails for all skill levels, from smooth family-friendly routes to more technical sections for thrill-seekers. Build your skills, take on new challenges, and enjoy a welcoming environment where mountain bikes and protective gear are available for rent, so you can head out on your adventure with confidence. Try horseback riding at Captiva Ranch. Located in the heart of the countryside, this equestrian center offers guided trail rides. Ride along beautiful, wooded trails, through enchanting landscapes and enjoy a moment of connection with these majestic animals. Treat yourself to a moment of relaxation after a sporting event. Relax at Nordik Spa-Nature, the largest spa in North America. Relax your muscles in one of the ten outdoor pools, take a seat in one of the nine saunas, unwind around a wood fire in one of the outdoor relaxation areas or in the panoramic pool.
The Outaouais offers many different indoor activities that combine fun, discovery and relaxation. Blast off with Altitude Gym, a climbing center offering challenges for all levels. Choose from over 50 first-roping routes and 50 top-roping routes. You can even climb up to 45 feet in the annex! Enjoy a delicious meal while experiencing Pärlé – Bistro Ludique. Take advantage of its extensive board game library and the guidance of passionate game hosts who can help you discover new games. Savour creative, locally inspired bistro cuisine paired with signature cocktails that change with the seasons. Brunch is also available on weekends — making it a great experience for the whole family. National museums, such as the Canadian War Museum and Canadian Museum of History, offer captivating exhibitions that immerse visitors in Canadian history and culture, providing an enriching break after hours of competition. For those looking for a unique experience, get behind the wheel of a go-kart at Top Karting. Quench your thirst for thrills in a car that can reach 75 km/h. The facility also has a fleet of junior go-karts and offers driving lessons with professional racers. Children will be able to discover thrills in a safe environment. For those who feel like a high flyer, Hôtel-Casino Lac-Leamy—Complexe de divertissement de Loto-Québec is one of the four casinos in Quebec. It is a place of unmissable entertainment where you can try your luck at slot machines or table games. The casino’s lively evenings are ideal for relaxing and having fun after a day on the rinks.
Between iconic landmarks, cultural attractions, and urban discoveries, the Urban getaway: Discover the jewels of Canada’s Capital itinerary takes you to a variety of must-see stops in the heart of the region. Another must-visit is the Royal Canadian Mint, where you can see the coin-making process and learn about Canada’s iconic coins. Captivating coin minting demonstrations also showcase the craftsmanship and know-how behind each coin.
After a full day of exploring, there’s nothing better than a great meal to recharge your batteries. BBQ Shop is the perfect place to enjoy delicious food on its beautiful rooftop patio. Located just steps from the Centre Slush Puppie, Le Resto Bistro Rumeur is an ideal gathering spot for family and friends. Both trendy and welcoming, it offers a chic yet relaxed atmosphere that’s perfect for happy hour, dinner with loved ones, or a lively evening out. Enjoy flavourful dishes prepared with local ingredients and treat yourself to a refined cocktail. The Pêle-Mêle—Vieux-Hull is a great restaurant option for those looking for hearty and tasty food. Share a plate of nachos or fall under the spell of our signature dish: poutine. The Outaouais is full of microbreweries offering beers, each one more unique than the last. Make a stop in one of them and order a tasting pallet to taste several in small quantities. Take some home and share the brewing know-how of the region with those around you. Check out Gatineau’s downtown restaurants to discover even more places to enjoy sensational food. If you'd like to make the most of the beautiful weather, there are plenty of patios to discover throughout Outaouais. And don’t forget to end the day with a warm-weather classic: enjoying a delicious ice cream.
Sporting events are the perfect opportunity to explore all that the Outaouais region has to offer. Whether you’re a sport enthusiast, a member of the family or a curious visitor, the Outaouais will seduce you and make your stay unforgettable! Discover a region rich in culture, nature and gastronomy. + Remember to check out our summer bucket list to make the most of your time in the Outaouais and enjoy a memorable experience!
I’m a nature lover and a food lover. My happiness is found in breathtaking landscapes, mouth-watering dishes and all the new colourful experiences. I travelled the world before coming back to my hometown: I missed the Outaouais so much. What if we rediscovered it together?