The Gatineau center is about the area of Supreme Court of Canada and the area of Dundonald Park.
The best time to visit Gatineau is between March and May, when winter's chill goes away for the year and the temperature slowly starts to rise. Beautiful tulips are blooming everywhere, making a walk in the park an ideal way to spend a spring afternoon. Lac Beauchamp Park is a popular place to visit, a park with over 170 acres to walk around and a small lake in the middle. It can be a busy time though, as tourists start to flock to the area, so book your room in advance if you're considering visiting in the spring.
Winter is also an ideal time to visit Gatineau, as hotel rates start to decrease. There are tons of outdoor activities to take part in for snow bunnies. You can ice skate or relive your hockey days on the Rideau Canal. Lac Beauchamp Park has 15 kilometers of snowshoe and ski trails available in the winter. At the Aylmer Marina, a "Winter Fun" event occurs every January when you can watch ice fishing tournaments, go on sleigh rides, and sip warm drinks by the bonfire. It's fun for the whole family, and a great way to experience the culture of Gatineau.
If you're looking for a discount and hold an AAA membership, you'll be happy to know that the Best Western Plus Gatineau-Ottawa offers a 10 percent discount on room rates. Just present the card upon check-in to start enjoying your savings. The hotel is also centrally located in the middle of the town. Within walking distance is the Jacques Cartier Park, Parliament Hill, and the Canadian Museum of History. A fitness facility and indoor pool are available for use to keep up your fitness routine. A restaurant and convenience store are next door to the hotel as well.
Business travelers will love the discount and amenities of staying at Motel du Chevalier. The business center is open 24 hours a day for those who need to work late into the night. There's a convenient computer station to use for those who forget to bring their own. Desks are also available in each room, and free Wi-Fi is provided for those who would prefer to work in private. An outdoor terrace provides a beautiful view of the city, while the outdoor pool is a great place to take a dip in the warmer months.
For a mid-range hotel at a steal of a price, stay at the Byword Blue Inn. The hotel boasts a garden and rooftop terrace, providing amazing views of the city. Ski storage is available if you plan on coming here during the winter and bringing your own gear. A meeting room and conference center are available to rent out for business travelers needing to plan meetings for their trip. There's also a business center for guests' use, and express checkout for those in a hurry. A free breakfast is served each morning. The Inn is near the Byward Market Square.
For a comfortable hotel that's a bargain, book a room at the Hotel V. It's centrally located in the city, putting you close to Promenades de L'Outaouais, Rideau Hall, and Gatineau Water Aerodrome. The hotel has a restaurant to meet all your dining needs, and even a bar to go to so you can relax with a glass of wine. Room service is also available during limited hours. Breakfast is available for an extra fee. Parking is free for those who are driving in, saving the hassle of trying to find and pay for expensive street parking.
Gatineau has a variety of museums to keep you entertained for days. Learn about the country's past at the Canadian Museum of History. The purpose of the museum is to keep and preserve any objects that show the human history of Canada. They pride themselves on how diverse their culture is. Over 20,000 years of history are covered in the museum, and both permanent and rotating exhibits are on display year-round. The Canadian Postal Museum is also a popular attraction to visit. Everything from vintage letter boxes to stamps to old sorting equipment are housed in the museum.
Gatineau is not lacking when it comes to outdoor activites. From parks to lakes, the city is surrounded by nature. Gatineau Park is a beautiful park that extends over 350 square kilometers. It's a common place to bike during the summer or cross-country ski during the winter. The MacKenzie King Estate is here, once the home of the former Prime Minister of Canada. Leamy Lake is a popular place to swim during the summer, and the beaches on the lakeshore are often packed during warm weather. It's a fun place to spend a whole day.
No matter what season you come to Gatineau, there's a hotel that will fit your price range and expectations. Whether you want to pamper yourself in a luxurious hotel and get a massage, or just care about saving money while still being comfortable, there are many options to choose from. Gatineau has so many activities, whether it's exploring the outdoors or learning about history at a museum. You're sure to find a comfortable place to stay, whatever your preferences or budget may be.
Below are reviews of the city of Gatineau, QC from an actual visitor's perspective.
Brewery!
The location was perfect, close to Ottawa and close to the casino. There are stores within walking distance if you need anything.
Nordik spa!
V�ronique Dicaire at casino theatre!
Baseball tournament in Aylmer.
Quiet place and nice scenery.
We found some great restaurants within walking distance of the hotel. People were genuinely helpful; they took time to point us in the right direction when we asked for restaurant suggestions
Relaxing!
Nice place to visit!
Attended a wedding in Wakefield. Colors spectacular.