I'm planning a staycation in the National Capital Region: any advice?
Jessey is a writer, digital communications strategist, and the founder of Local Tourist Ottawa.
As I’m sure you’ve noticed, things have been a bit quiet around here lately – the holidays are a busy time!
But, in the spirit of LTO, I made a decision last night: instead of hopping off to Vermont or catching a last-minute flight south for my vacation between Christmas and New Year’s, I’m planning a staycation.
So, I have some great ideas already…but I need your help. What should I do to make the most of my time off?
Here are a few things on my to do list:
- Drop by the Canadian Museum of Nature to see what’s new. I’ve been aching to see Sea Monsters 3D, because I pretty much love anything that has to do with dinosaurs and/or the ocean.
- Go skiing, possibly at Camp Fortune.
- Eat at Fraser Cafe…I’ve actually never been there!
- Go climbing at Coyote Rock Gym, like in the old days.
- Possibly find some sort of spa experience?
- What about the theatre? I have tickets to NAC’s Oliver! and The Vinyl Cafe with Stuart McLean pre-Christmas…but why have I still never been to the GCTC?
- Go to Absolute Comedy, one of my favourite places for a date night.
If you have any ideas for my staycation, please shoot me a note at ltottawa@gmail.com, or leave a comment below.
Let the planning begin!
At some point, you need to play the song “Vacation” by the Go-Go’s at a very high volume. Also, come meet me for a treat, coffee, and catching up at Art-Is-In!
Done, and done.
Take in a free or cheap yoga class, most studios offer some form of “charity yoga” and lululemon usually has 1-2 classes a week that are also free
I was actually thinking of starting each day with yoga! A lofty goal, I know…
Thanks for the advice!
Check out iPricedit.com at http://www.ipricedit.com as you can bid on tickets to events and save. Bidding usually runs about a week before the show so great way to get deals.
I had actually never heard of this: thank you!
can you please eat a beaver tail for me? I know it’s obvious and not hip and cool, but I miss those things living in Toronto.
I probably shouldn’t admit to this on my website that celebrates all the great things in Ottawa, but…I’ve never had a Beavertail. SHAME!
For you Chris? I will make this happen. Possibly while wearing skates.
living the dream, Jessey. living the dream!
WHAT? Jessey, we can’t be friends anymore. I’m sorry. I will buy you a Beavertail if it is the last thing I do!
Fun idea Jessey!
For the spa experience, I’ve heard great things about Le Nordik in Chelsea – on top on the baths, they also offer massages and they have a restaurant.
I’m sure you’ll enjoy Fraser Café! If you go for dinner and are feeling adventurous, order the kitchen’s choice. My friends and I loved each of our dishes when we did.
Le Nordik is a great idea, I haven’t been there in a couple of years and it is always a really nice space. Also, I’m receiving an overwhelming amount of messages about just how much I really need to go to Fraser Cafe — so consider it a “must-do” on the list.
South March Highlands!
jessey, museum of nature should still be free after 5pm on thursday nights. i still haven’t gone, and i’ve lived two blocks from it for almost a year! might be time that i went as well.
Check out the Vale Earth Gallery in the museum while you’re there – I love my whales and dinosaurs, but that section is honestly so awesome!!
will do!
yoga every day? definitely get the passport to prana then! I esp. like hot yoga in the winter! I second Le Nordik – a good way to enjoy a bit of outdoors while still pampering yourself. On my list this holiday are Cha Yi and Edgar!