Ottawa Weather in March

March weather in Ottawa

March feels like winter loosening its grip, not spring in full bloom. Days reach around 2°C, while nights drop to about -9°C. The air is often damp and skies are frequently cloudy, so sidewalks can turn icy or slushy. Compared with February, it's milder, but don't expect April's easier walking weather yet.

You can still enjoy indoor stops like the National Gallery of Canada and the Canadian Museum of History. For a city walk, keep it short and stick to cleared paths around Parliament Hill. The Rideau Canal Skateway may be closed by March, so don't build your visit around skating. Wet, cold weather also makes long days outdoors less appealing.

Events and crowds

Ottawa's St. Patrick's Day Parade brings music and colour to downtown in March. The route and date can vary, so check the parade details before heading out. It's a fun change of pace if you're visiting with kids, though downtown streets may be busier around the event.

If you hate crowds, March is usually calmer than Ottawa's summer high season, when patios and major sights draw more visitors. Prices are often lower than in peak summer, but school break can bring a short family-travel rush. The weather can be a fair trade for quieter galleries and easier restaurant visits.

March in Ottawa: local tips

Treat March as a city-break month, with outdoor plans kept flexible. If a cold, wet day sets in, spend it at the Canadian Museum of Nature, then warm up with a bowl of poutine near Elgin Street. On a brighter day, walk through the ByWard Market, where many shops and cafés stay open through the season.

A local tip: check the Rideau Canal Skateway's official status before setting out. March conditions can change quickly, and the canal isn't a dependable skating plan this late in winter. Don't confuse a sunny afternoon with a reliably clear route.