Is Ottawa the City that Fun Forgot?

[S-Man]

Ottawa never met a regulation, rule, or bylaw it didn't love, and that's a big part of the problem.

I'm not sure if the presence of the NCC is partly to blame, but put all the regulations on individuals and businesses and the total effect is one of dampening potential.

No adults allowed in parks after 11? Even Major's Hill? Silly - tourists get stopped by NCC officers for ID.

Buskers in the Market - a ton of restrictions heaped on them by Jim 'Regulation' Watson, so much so that it's hard for them to operate. And buskers form a big part (or used to) of the tourist-friendly culture in the market - many used to come from as far away as Europe to practice their craft in Ottawa.

Patios? Look out! I don't know why bars and restaurants on well-travelled strips bother with the expense and hassle.

The city's sphincter is a little too tight.