Looking for the perfect outdoor location for your couple/engagement photoshoot in Ottawa?

Don't worry, we've got you covered! Here’s a curated list of the top 20 ideal locations around town, each offering a unique and picturesque backdrop to capture your special moments:

 

1. Major's Hill Park

Address: Mackenzie Ave, Ottawa, ON K1N 9J6
Why it's great: Offers stunning views of Parliament Hill, Ottawa River, and Château Laurier.
Best time: Spring for cherry blossoms or fall for vibrant foliage.

 

2. Arboretum at the Central Experimental Farm

Address: Prince of Wales Dr, Ottawa, ON K2C 3R6
Why it's great: Lush gardens, trees, and charming paths make it perfect for natural, intimate shots.
Best time: Spring or early summer when flowers are in bloom.

 

3. Dominion Arboretum by Dow's Lake

Address: 930 Carling Ave, Ottawa, ON K1A 0C6
Why it's great: Offers waterfront views, lush greenery, and reflections in the water.
Best time: Early summer or during the Tulip Festival in May.

 

4. Rideau Canal

Address: Along Colonel By Dr & Queen Elizabeth Dr, Ottawa, ON
Why it's great: Historic charm with scenic water views and lovely bridges.
Best time: Fall or winter for cozy canal shots.

 

5. Rockcliffe Park Lookout

Address: 300 Rockcliffe Pkwy, Ottawa, ON K1M 0A2
Why it's great: Offers panoramic views of the Ottawa River and Gatineau Hills.
Best time: Sunset or golden hour.

 

6. ByWard Market

Address: 55 ByWard Market Square, Ottawa, ON K1N 9C3
Why it's great: Cobblestone streets and colorful storefronts for a lively, urban backdrop.
Best time: Early morning or at dusk for city lights.

 

7. Hog's Back Falls

Address: Hog's Back Rd, Ottawa, ON K2C 3H1
Why it's great: Dramatic waterfall and surrounding greenery for nature lovers.
Best time: Spring when the falls are powerful.

 

8. Gatineau Park

Address: 33 Scott Rd, Chelsea, QC J9B 1R5 (15 minutes from Ottawa)
Why it's great: Dense forests, hiking trails, and Champlain Lookout for outdoor, wilderness shots.
Best time: Fall for foliage or early summer for greenery.

 

9. Andrew Haydon Park

Address: 3169 Carling Ave, Ottawa, ON K2H 5A6
Why it's great: Peaceful water views, ponds, and sunsets for relaxed couple photography.
Best time: Sunset for reflections on the water.

 

10. Nepean Point

Address: 380 Sussex Dr, Ottawa, ON K1N 9N4
Why it's great: High vantage point with views of Parliament Hill and the Ottawa River.
Best time: Golden hour for soft lighting.

 

11. Parliament Hill

Address: Wellington St, Ottawa, ON K1A 0A9
Why it's great: Iconic and historic with beautiful architecture and sweeping lawns.
Best time: Early morning or late afternoon for fewer crowds.

 

12. Maplelawn Garden

Address: 529 Richmond Rd, Ottawa, ON K2A 0G3
Why it's great: A hidden gem with beautiful, historic gardens, offering a peaceful and colorful setting.
Best time: Summer when flowers are in bloom.

 

13. LeBreton Flats Park

Address: 1 Vimy Pl, Ottawa, ON K1A 0M8
Why it's great: Open green spaces with modern cityscape views and close to the War Museum.
Best time: Golden hour for dramatic lighting.

 

14. Ottawa Locks

Address: 3 Canal Ln, Ottawa, ON K1P 5P6
Why it's great: Historic and scenic with the Rideau Canal locks and beautiful views of Château Laurier.
Best time: Fall for vibrant colors or winter for snow-covered shots.

 

15. Canadian Museum of History (Backside along the river)

Address: 100 Laurier St, Gatineau, QC J8X 4H2
Why it's great: Stunning views of the Ottawa skyline from the riverbank, offering a mix of natural and urban elements.
Best time: Sunset or during blue hour.

 

16. Mud Lake

Address: 1699 Carling Ave, Ottawa, ON K2A 1C4
Why it's great: A natural area with ponds, trails, and lush greenery, perfect for serene couple shots.
Best time: Spring or fall for colorful surroundings.

 

17. Strathcona Park

Address: 25 Range Rd, Ottawa, ON K1N 8J7
Why it's great: Offers a mix of open green spaces, a peaceful river, and charming bridges.
Best time: Early summer or fall for changing leaves.

 

18. Victoria Island

Address: Middle of the Ottawa River, between Ontario and Quebec (access from Ottawa side)
Why it's great: Offers beautiful water views, quiet spaces, and a unique location in the middle of the Ottawa River.
Best time: Summer for lush greenery.

 

19. Vincent Massey Park

Address: Heron Rd, Ottawa, ON K1V 2E4
Why it's great: Large park with tree-lined paths, open green areas, and picnic spots for relaxed, outdoor photos.
Best time: Spring or fall for colorful foliage.

 

20. Petrie Island

Address: Trim Rd, Ottawa, ON K4A 3M8
Why it's great: A beautiful spot along the Ottawa River with beaches, walking trails, and wildlife, offering a perfect backdrop for a nature-inspired photo session.
Best time: Summer or early fall for beach shots.

 

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