A tour of Jacques-Cartier Street
A 3.2-km stretch of Jacques-Cartier Street has been transformed into a waterfront recreational pathway for pedestrians and cyclists. It’s home to numerous activities, restaurants, beautiful views of the region and a bicycle path. Head to the waterfront for the perfect mix of culture, food and fun!
Activities galore
La Baie Park is a great place for a family picnic or an outdoor activity with friends. The site has a five-kilometre loop on level ground, and dogs on a leash are welcome. The path is part paved, part gravel and is suitable for pushchairs and bicycles. The free parking area is a good starting point for exploring the area.
Visit the corner of Jacques-Cartier and Saint-Antoine streets, the site of archaeological digs conducted from 2013 to 2015. Take a stroll on Abinan Place to learn about the area’s Indigenous history, view Indigenous art and learn more about the 125,000 artifacts found on the site. The name Abinan means “People were here” in Anishinaabeg, an Algonquin language.
Take a seat in the beer garden at À La Dérive craft brewery, a casual space with a bocce ball court where people can meet with friends. The brewery frequently hosts music shows, festivals and other events. It’s a prime spot for craft beer lovers: with 20 keg lines, there’s something for everyone! Tasting trays are available.
There are several docks along Jacques-Cartier Street, offering interesting vantage points and breathtaking views. In summer, music performances and shows are presented at the Quai-des-Légendes and the Quai des Artistes. Check out the program! If you’re lucky, you might see people magnet fishing and pulling up long-lost treasures from the depths of the Ottawa River.
If you have a boat licence, rent a pontoon boat with Ürban Rentals and spend the day with friends relaxing on the Ottawa River. The departure is from the Jacques-Cartier marina, near the Quai des Artistes and two pontoons are available for rental, the Lounge and the Bistro. A captain is also available for those who do not have a licence. To your swimsuits, sailors!
Looking for something out of the ordinary? Charter a private yacht with Ottawa Yacht Tours and admire the most beautiful views on the Ottawa River. Spend the afternoon with friends on a luxury boat that can accommodate up to 12 passengers, or watch the sunset at the end of the day.
Appetizing dishes
If you have a craving, Rest’O’Bord Le Pirate is a good place to stop. Travelling by boat? Rent a berth at the marina and come in for a bite to eat. Enjoy the atmosphere and the view from the terrace overlooking the Ottawa River. There’s no better way to relax than with a refreshing drink while watching the boats sail by.
For sports fans, it’s all happening at Le Forum! With eight of the biggest screens in the region, you’ll feel like you’re part of the team. On Saturday evenings, the restaurant’s lounge area is packed for Latin Night. On Sunday evenings, pick your song and crank up the karaoke.
Sterling Restaurant is an ideal choice for a special occasion. Known for its meat and fish dishes, the menu ranges from a fresh oyster platter to filet mignon and rack of wild boar. Ask to visit the wine cellar to choose your bottle, or treat yourself to a glass of port.
A different way to visit
Discover Jacques-Cartier Street by bike on the Voyageurs Pathway, a 30-kilometre bicycle path along the north shore of the Ottawa River. The trail is part of the Capital Pathway Network, one of the largest in North America, with over 600 kilometres of multi-use pathways. Consult the trail map to plan your route.
A night on the river
Spend a night at the Kokomo Inn on the Ottawa River, a charming five-bedroom, adults-only B&B. Sit on the deck and enjoy the river view and the complimentary breakfast each morning. Relax in the backyard on the lounge-style patio, complete with an outdoor fireplace and a swing. Book your stay now!
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Extend your stay by visiting Old Aylmer, a true cultural paradise.
