Things To Do
in Kanata
Kanata is a western suburb of Ottawa, Ontario, Canada, known for its mix of tech hubs and family-friendly neighborhoods. It's home to modern office parks, extensive trails, and several shopping and dining clusters around Kanata North and Hazeldean. The area serves as a convenient gateway to Ottawa's urban core while offering a quieter, slower pace with abundant parks and golf courses.
Visitors can expect well-planned communities, easy transit links, and a blend of urban amenities with natural spaces.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Kanata Centrum Shopping Centre, where you can enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a local café. Afterward, take a stroll through the nearby Kanata Town Centre, admiring the charming architecture and vibrant community spirit. As the sun rises higher, make your way to the Kanata Museum to learn about the rich history of the area.
For lunch, indulge in some local cuisine at one of the many restaurants in the area, perhaps trying a classic Canadian poutine. Afterward, take a scenic walk through the picturesque Kanata Lakes, where you can enjoy the tranquility of nature and spot some local wildlife. Wrap up the afternoon with a visit to the Canadian Tire Centre for a guided tour of this iconic venue.
As evening falls, savor a delightful dinner at a fine dining restaurant in the heart of Kanata, where you can enjoy regional specialties paired with local wines. After dinner, catch a live performance or sporting event at the Canadian Tire Centre, immersing yourself in the local entertainment culture. Conclude your day with a relaxing nightcap at a cozy bar, reflecting on your adventures.
Begin your outdoor adventure with a hearty breakfast at a café near Kanata Lakes, fueling up for a day of exploration. Afterward, rent a kayak or canoe and paddle across the serene waters of the lakes, enjoying the beautiful scenery and fresh air. Keep an eye out for the local wildlife, including various bird species and perhaps even some playful otters.
For lunch, pack a picnic and find a scenic spot by the water to relax and enjoy your meal surrounded by nature. Post-lunch, embark on a hiking trail around the lakes, taking in the stunning views and the peaceful ambiance of the surrounding forest. Don’t forget your camera, as the landscapes offer perfect photo opportunities.
As the day winds down, return to your accommodations to freshen up before heading out for dinner at a restaurant with a view of the lakes. Enjoy a meal made from locally sourced ingredients while watching the sunset over the water, creating a perfect end to the day. After dinner, take a peaceful evening walk along the lakefront, soaking in the tranquility of the night.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕Coffee | $3-5 |
| 🧃Bottle of water | $1-2 |
| 🎬Movie ticket | $12-15 |
| 🚌Transit pass (monthly) | $100-120 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Family-friendly neighborhoods and good safety
- Proximity to Ottawa with easy access to urban and nature experiences
- Well-maintained trails and parks
- Strong local services and shopping options
- Limited nightlife within Kanata itself
- Can require a short drive to downtown Ottawa for major attractions
- Winter travel can be challenging due to snow and ice
- Some traffic during peak hours on main arteries
Places to Visit in Kanata
Visit one of these nice places.
Open greens and lake reflections provide tranquil sunrise photography opportunities.
Sports arena exterior and lights create dramatic evening silhouettes.
Colorful storefront lines and urban textures ideal for street photography.
Food in Kanata
Kanata Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A Canadian classic of fries topped with cheese curds and gravy; widely available across Kanata in casual eateries and fast-food spots.
Must-Try!
A staple Canadian dessert pastry; seek out local bakeries and cafés within Ottawa for flaky crusts and rich fillings.
A modern take featuring maple-glazed salmon with rice and vegetables at contemporary eateries.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal outdoor market offering local produce, baked goods, and crafts; best in warmer months.
Historic market district with stalls, prepared foods, and a lively street food scene; great for tasting Ottawa-area specialties.
Street-food options and casual eateries clustering around central Ottawa; short detour from Kanata.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Queues are common in shops and transit; be patient and wait your turn.
Use please and thank you; bilingual signs and services in English and French are common in Ottawa area.
Do not cut; social norms emphasize courteous behavior.
Safety
Tipping in Kanata
Ensure a smooth experience
In Canada, tipping is customary at 15-20% in restaurants and for service workers; tip is usually added for larger groups.
Cash, debit, and credit cards are widely accepted; tap-to-pay and mobile wallets are common.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm days with afternoon thunderstorms; long daylight hours make outdoor exploration comfortable.
Crimson and gold foliage in and around parks; excellent for scenic walks and photography.
Cold temperatures and snow, ideal for cozy cafés and winter sports; dress in layers and wear sturdy boots.
Milder weather with blooming trees; rain showers can occur; pack a light rain jacket.
Kanata at Night
Hiking in Kanata
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Forested hills with scenic lookouts suitable for day hikes.
Easy to moderate trails offering forest and wetland scenery.
Boardwalks through a bog with birdwatching and wide open spaces.
Airports
How to reach Kanata by plane.
Main international gateway for Ottawa region; about a 20-40 minute drive from central Kanata depending on traffic.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Many households with children live in Kanata's parks and schools.
A significant portion work in nearby tech campuses and office parks in Kanata North.
A mix of high school students, university attendees, and people who commute to Ottawa.
Quiet neighborhoods with established services attract retirees.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A staple of Canadian culture; local leagues and facilities host games and public skating.
Popular in schools and clubs during spring and summer.
Well-supported clubs and community leagues with multiple fields around Kanata.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Kanata.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many Kanata restaurants offer vegetarian options; look for veggie burgers, bowls, and salads; ask for meat-free sauces and dressings.