Ladies, there’s more to university life than drinking! Sometimes it’s good to take a break from partying and try something new. Now I know museums and galleries can get pretty costly, but they aren’t the only alternatives in Ottawa to partying. This city is bursting with unique activities to do that fit the budget of a university student. That said, let’s drop the bottles for a little while and forget about trying to relive a music video by Ke$ha. Waking up feeling like P. Diddy? Not so classy. Try out some of these cool activities around the city for something a little different.
1. The Peace Tower
Did you know that the Peace Tower isn’t just a ridiculously tall clock in the middle of Parliament Hill? You can actually go to the top of it and look out on Ottawa. This observation deck gives you a breath-taking view of the city and not only is this an amazing experience, but it’s budget friendly too. Tripsto the Peace Tower do not require you to purchase tickets or book a tour—it’s all free!
2. Dinner and Dessert in the Market
I’m sure everyone has gone to the market and checked out Zac’s Diner by now (if you haven’t, go try one of their milkshakes!), but it’s not the only fabulous spot in the market. Try switching it up a little and heading over to Blue Cactus. It’s a great restaurant for dinner or lunch after a trip to the Rideau Centre and for dessert you can go right next door to The Cupcake Lounge for some mouth-watering treats. You’ll be mesmerized by the rows of decorated cupcakes with flavours that make it difficult to choose just one.
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3. Little Italy
If you aren’t thrilled about visiting the market, try walking through Little Italy. Located on Preston Street just one street up from the O-Train station at Carling, Little Italy is a strip of Italian shops and restaurants. If you don’t know which place to go to, try Simply Biscotti. This quaint little coffee shop is warm, welcoming and filled with delicious scents. Grab a hot drink and one of many available Italian delicacies to go with it and escape Ottawa for a little while—Italy is waiting.
4. National Arts Centre
Now enough about food. If you’re looking for a spectacular show, try booking a show at the National Arts Centre. Tickets may be expensive, but the NAC understands the budget of university students too. If you sign up for Live Rush, you can get last minute tickets to top shows if seats are still available for just $12.00! To top it off, Live Rush is free to sign up for and you can do so from your room at school—it’s all online.
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5. Rainbow Cinemas
Sometimes university students just need a night to relax and what better way to do that than by catching a movie? Rainbow Cinemas is located at St. Laurent and the easy-to-get-to location isn’t even the best part. This theatre shows films that are just leaving main theatre chains for a discounted price. If you’re looking for a cheap night out, this is definitely an option for you.
6. Laser Quest
If you’re looking for something really different, check out Laser Quest. Some may argue that it is a bit childish, but who says university students are too old to run around in the dark chasing each other with laser guns? Grab a large group of friends and see who is the stealthiest—loser buys the pizza.
If you’re looking for a change, try out some of these great activities with your friends for a fun night that you’re guaranteed to remember and don’t forget to check out the events page on Her Campus Carleton for more fabulous ideas!
Photo Credit:
Peace Tower: http://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g155004-d556456-Reviews-Peace_Tower-Ottawa_Ontario.html
NAC: http://nac-cna.ca/en/
http://nac-cna.ca/en/presents/event/1944
http://nac-cna.ca/en/orchestra/event/320
Rainbow Cinemas: http://www.rainbowcinemas.ca/A/links.php?theatre=Ottawa
Laser Quest: http://www.laserquest.com/public/groups/birthdays/
http://carletonnow.carleton.ca/june-2010/carleton-cusa-and-rrra-working-together-on-orientation-2010/