Speaking of cocktails, two of Ottawa's newest summer patio hot spots are Tavern on the Hill and Tavern on the Falls, offering drinks and a view. For after-dinner drinks, check out Charlotte, a contemporary lounge where you can choose to sip in your living room of choice. House of Targ is an old school arcade and pinball joint that hosts live music events, skewing punk and heavy rock. On Sundays, cover is $6 and includes unlimited free play of the games.

The clear winner, however, was Tavern on the Hill. It's tucked away in a hidden corner of Major's Hill Park, and offers stunning views the Ottawa River, the National Gallery and Parliament Hill's gothic spires.

It was a tad chilly but at least the rain stopped in time for a special reception hosted Tuesday night by the YMCA-YWCA National Capital Region at one of the best outdoor patios in town, Tavern on the Falls.

Close to 100 guests turned out to the 6th Annual Chair’s Round Table gathering, held for donors who make annual contributions to the local Y of $1,000 or more.

Tavern On The Falls

Price: Prices vary

When: 11 a.m. until 1 a.m.

Address: 1 John Street

Why You Need To Go: If the weather is nice, this beautiful spot stays open until the end of October. Offering comfy couches to lounge on, tasty treats, drinks, and stunning waterfall views, there is no reason not to visit Tavern on the Falls!

When Andre Schad and his wife and Chantal Biro-Schad, owners of the eponymous fashion boutique on Sussex Drive, branched out last spring to open Tavern on the Hill in Major’s Hill Park, they had no idea that they’d have the smash hit of the summer on their hands.

Now, they’ve expanded the haute hot dog concept to another sublime spot to take advantage of Ottawa River views, the Gatineau Hills in the distance, and the Rideau Falls, cascading close by. Tavern on the Falls will offer a huge wooden deck with chunky planters, seating and tables for 225, as well as fire pits, vintage style string lights, giant red umbrellas, and cozy fleece blankets for chilly evenings.

Ottawa, quite simply, comes to life during the summer. While the city doesn't shy away from cold weather (how could it, really?), the first glimpses of sunlight offer up a whole new perspective on the capital — and you better be sure you take advantage of it.

In fact, Ottawa is home to some of the greatest patios in the country, thanks to views of the river, Parliament Hill and the general good vibes all around the city. Amongst all the Canada 150 hoopla, you're bound to get out at some point, so why not plan for an outdoor beverage or four?