Why it matters: run by Indigenous Experiences, an Indigenous women-owned organization, this farm 20 minutes from downtown is home to a herd of endangered Ojibwe Spirit Horses – Canada’s only known Indigenous horse breed, with roughly 180 registered animals left. Visit Thursday to Sunday for farm tours, dreamcatcher workshops, seasonal Indigenous festivals and a marketplace of Indigenous-made goods. Entry is free; time your visit to the solstice festivals if you can.
Why it matters: founded in 2014 by Metis artist and educator Jaime Koebel, these Indigenous-led walks re-read downtown Ottawa’s monuments, art and architecture from an Indigenous perspective. Over about two hours and 3 km you’ll cover social, political and cultural history the plaques leave out. Tours run in English and French and are accessible for all ages. Book ahead – dates fill up, especially in summer.
Why it matters: owned by Anishinaabe mother-daughter duo Paula and Jayde Naponse of Atikameksheng Anishinawbek First Nation, this Lansdowne cafe is a community hub for Indigenous people and their supporters. Alongside the coffee bar you’ll find clothing, art and goods from Indigenous makers, plus regular beading workshops. Order a coffee, browse the shelves and pick up a gift that actually supports the artist who made it. Closed Monday and Tuesday; weekends open at 9am.
Hands-on cooking classes at the Presidents Choice Cooking School, an Ottawa favourite.
