In light of the recent announcement that the province of Ontario has moved into a modified Step 2 of the Roadmap to Reopen, the Ottawa Valley Tourist Association (OVTA) is asking for support on behalf of local businesses. Businesses that rely on travelers, large group gatherings, in person dining, classes and adventures have been and continue to suffer the effects of closures and restrictions. To help counter-act some of the negative effects of these measures, the OVTA is offering several tips on how the community can support local tourism businesses, retailers and other hard hit businesses:
- Plan a stay-cation for March Break by purchasing tickets to a local ski hill, booking a local hotel or resort
- Set some summertime goals by buying gift certificates for a local whitewater rafting trip or a round of golf
- Order takeout from a local restaurant
- Buy a gift certificate to a local movie theatre
- Take advantage of online offerings from local gyms, yoga studios and fitness providers
The OVTA recognizes that social media is one way the community is staying connected. As you take some of these steps to support local, show the community how by posting on Instagram and / or Facebook. Tag @ottawavalleytravel as well as the business(s) you are supporting for a chance to win a signature Ottawa Valley G’Day toque. Only those who tag @ottawavalleytravel will be eligible to win.
Need some inspiration to start your local adventure?
If you’re as passionate about perogies as we are, you’ll want to explore the Madawaska Valley area – heart of the Kaszuby region and Canada’s First Polish Settlement. Wilno Tavern serves an excellent dozen, but you’ll also want to visit the folks at Polka Spuds for their deep-fried version.
For a really good time and a really good beer, visit either the Lakeside or Riverside location of Whitewater Brewing Company. They’ve also got a stellar pub menu are both locations – we like the Whitewater Burger Local but sub in a Mountain Creek Elk patty. It’s topped with plenty of caramalized onions, St. Albert’s old cheddar and their house-made(!) Midnight Stout horseradish mustard.
Outdoor enthusiasts will be glad to hear that experiences in the region take their food seriously. Paddlers can book a trip with Madawaska KANU Centre or OWL Rafting and be spoiled for choices with their locally-sourced family style meals. Skiiers should head to Calabogie Peaks where their hillside restaurant, Canthooks offers unparalleled feasting experiences.
Discover more Ottawa Valley adventures here:
