places to visit downtown ottawa

16 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Ottawa

Written by Bryan Dearsley Updated Dec 25, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Author Bryan Dearsley lives in Ontario and enjoys visiting Ottawa. He toured many of the top attractions on a recent trip in summer of 2022.

No matter what time of year you go, Ottawa is definitely one of the top places to visit in Canada for those seeking a fun-filled city holiday or short stay. Founded in 1850 and declared the country's capital in 1857 by Queen Victoria , Ottawa's broad avenues and historic buildings make it especially fun to explore on foot.

Centered around the grand old government buildings atop Parliament Hill, the city center is a great place to see some of Canada's most important cultural attractions . These include the National Arts Center, a venue for opera and concerts; the National Gallery; and other important landmarks such as the lively Byward Market.

While exploring its many parks and pleasant green spaces is fun in spring, summer, and fall, a visit in winter is also highly recommended. In addition to its popular winter festivals, the city's main waterway is transformed into the Rideau Canal Skateway, the world's longest skating rink .

To learn more about these and other fun things to do in Canada's capital, read our list of the top attractions in Ottawa, Ontario.

1. Parliament Hill and Parliament Buildings

2. rideau canal national historic site, 3. canadian war museum, 4. national gallery of canada, 5. see the views from the peace tower, 6. canadian museum of nature, 7. the national war memorial, 8. diefenbunker: canada's cold war museum, 9. notre-dame cathedral basilica, 10. canada aviation and space museum, 11. royal canadian mint, 12. canadian tulip festival, 13. byward market, 14. canada science and technology museum, 15. bank of canada museum, 16. dows lake pavilion, where to stay in ottawa for sightseeing, ottawa, canada - climate chart.

The Parliament Buildings, in all their splendor of Victorian Gothic sandstone, are quite an imposing sight atop the 50-meter-high Parliament Hill (Colline du Parlement). They were built here in 1866, a safe distance from any potential attack by the USA (the two countries had fought previously in the three-year conflict that was the War of 1812). The views over the Ottawa River far below are simply stunning.

The Parliamentary Library , at the back of the building opposite the entrance, is a wonderfully furnished octagon-shaped structure that was untouched in the 1916 fire. You can explore the sprawling historic Centre Block on a guided tour , and the public can also attend a question period when the government is in session.

The attractive grassed area in front of the Parliament buildings is patrolled in summer by members of the Canadian Mounted Police , looking very dashing in their Mountie uniforms of scarlet jackets, Stetsons, riding breeches, and knee-length boots.

On summer mornings, the Changing of the Guard always attracts visitors with its regimental band and pipers. The ceremony begins at 10 am, but you should be there at least 15 minutes before that for a good view and to enjoy the bilingual commentary describing the event's history and significance. The Changing of the Guard and tours of Parliament are among the most popular free things to do in Ottawa.

Address: Wellington Street, Ottawa, Ontario

The 200-kilometer-long, 1.6-meter-deep Rideau Canal connects Ottawa with Kingston on Lake Ontario. Sometimes also called the Rideau Waterway, it was originally intended as a strategic route between Montréal and Lake Ontario, the military need for which was demonstrated during the war with the United States in 1812.

In summer, the canal and locks are an active waterway. Fun things to do include taking a Rideau Canal cruise aboard one of the many tour boats that ply the water here. Better still, splash out on a memorable overnight cruise on the canal.

As soon as it freezes over, though, the canal becomes a recreational area for festivals and skating. Dubbed the Rideau Canal Skateway , skating along this nearly eight-kilometer stretch of the waterway is undoubtedly one of the top things to do in Canada in winter .

Set overlooking the canal, the spectacular Fairmont Château Laurier hotel is one of the grandest old buildings in Ottawa. Though it has the air of a medieval castle, it was actually built in 1912 and is a prime example of how the big Canadian railroad companies left their mark across Canada.

• Read More: Exploring the Historic Rideau Canal in Ottawa: Top Things to Do

Located beside the Ottawa River a pleasant 20-minute walk from Parliament Hill, the strikingly modern Canadian War Museum (Musée Canadien de la Guerre) does a great job of introducing visitors to Canada's military past.

Exhibits cover everything from the fighting between the French and Iroquois people in the 16th century through the Canadian contribution to the First and Second World Wars. There are also displays relating to the role of modern peacekeepers, something Canada's troops are famous for.

US visitors will find it especially interesting to see the history of familiar historical events, such as the War of 1812, from the Canadian perspective. Some of the exhibits are interactive, and the collection of military vehicles displayed includes more than 50 tanks, jeeps, motorcycles, armored trucks, and even Hitler's limousine. A café and gift shop are located on the premises.

Address: 1 Vimy Place, Ottawa, Ontario

Ultra-modern and designed by Moshe Safdie, the National Gallery of Canada (Musée des Beaux-Arts du Canada) is an architectural masterpiece with prism-like glass towers that echo the lines of the nearby Parliament Buildings. Its glass contrasts with the mock medieval Château Laurier, yet the attraction still fits well into Ottawa's attractive cityscape.

Inside what is one of the largest art museums in North America, galleries display aboriginal art, trace the development of Canadian art from religious works to the Group of Seven, explore European Impressionism, and house temporary exhibitions . The rooms of Inuit art are on the lower level under the glass-encased Great Hall. Admission to this fine gallery is free to Indigenous Peoples.

For more sightseeing, the National Gallery is well placed near many other popular Ottawa tourist attractions, including Notre-Dame , the Canadian War Museum , and Major's Hill Park .

Address: 380 Sussex Drive, Ottawa, Ontario

The panoramic view from the observation deck at the top of the Peace Tower (Tour de la Paix), the highest point in Ottawa, encompasses Parliament Hill, the entire city, the river, Gatineau , and the hills to the north. On your way up in the elevator, you will get a look at the tower's bells, and there is a memorial room to Canadians who died in WWI.

While entrance to the tower, sometimes also called the "Tower of Victory and Peace," is free, you must obtain a ticket in advance of your visit. Check the official government site for tickets , or pop in to the nearby tourist information center at 90 Wellington West for "first-come, first-served" tickets.

Access to the tower itself is from the East Block of the Parliament Buildings.

Address: Parliament Hill, Ottawa, Ontario

The Canadian Museum of Nature (Musée Canadien de la Nature) takes visitors through the world of the dinosaurs all the way up to today's animal population, and also features poignant temporary exhibits.

It is the national natural sciences and history museum and its historic building (once the Victoria Memorial Museum), that is the birthplace of Canada's national museums. Construction on this castle-like building was completed in 1910.

Address: 240 McLeod Street, Ottawa, Ontario

The National War Memorial (Monument Commémoratif de Guerre) and Canada's Tomb of the Unknown Soldier is at the foot of a striking bronze sculpture of World War I soldiers emerging from a granite arch. Around the base of the statue, which is also known as "The Response," are the years of conflicts where Canadian forces have fought.

A brief, but solemn, Changing of the Guard ceremony is held here daily at hourly or half-hourly intervals, depending on the season. The monument is the center of activities on Remembrance Day, when it is traditional for people to leave poppies on the tomb.

Although it's a half-hour drive from downtown Ottawa, Diefenbunker: Canada's Cold War Museum is well worth a visit. It's located in the small town of Carp in a large underground facility that was constructed in the early 1960s to protect important functions of the Canadian government in the event of a nuclear war.

It's one of several self-sufficient, shock-resistant, radiation-proof underground shelters built across Canada during the Cold War as part of Project EASE (Experimental Army Signals Establishments), and a visit here offers a fascinating insight into these turbulent times on the world stage.

Political critics coined the nickname "Diefenbunker" in reference to Prime Minister John Diefenbaker, who promoted their construction. The extensive bunker now houses a fascinating museum dedicated to the Cold War era.

Also fun, if you have the time, is their Diefenbunker Escape Room experience, purportedly the largest such attraction in the world.

Address: 3929 Carp Road, Carp, Ottawa, Ontario

Opposite the National Gallery, Ottowa's Notre-Dame Cathedral is a beautiful Catholic basilica consecrated in 1846. It is particularly notable for the interior mahogany carvings by Philippe Parizeau and figures of the four evangelists, prophets, and apostles by Louis-Philippe Hébert.

The stained-glass windows are particularly fine. The series of 17 windows picturing scenes from the life of Christ and the Virgin Mary were completed between 1956 and 1061, the work of Montreal artist Guido Nincheri. This historic building, begun in 1841 and completed in 1880, is the largest and oldest standing church in the nation's capital.

Be sure to pop inside for a look and to take some photos of the cathedral's other impressive interior features.

Address: 385 Sussex Drive, Ottawa, Ontario

Telling in detail the story of Canadian civil and military aviation, the Canada Aviation and Space Museum (Musée de l'Aviation et de l'Espace du Canada) is located at Rockcliffe Airport, on the northern edge of town. Although eight kilometers away, and a little too far to walk to, a visit to what is undoubtedly one of the top things to do in Ottawa for families is a must.

Among the aircraft on display are a replica of the Silver Dart, which in 1909 made the first flight in Canada. Other highlights include fighter planes from the First and Second World Wars, and some of the seaplanes and other aircraft that helped open up Canada's uncharted northern wilderness.

Address: 11 Aviation Parkway, Ottawa

While the Royal Canadian Mint (Monnaie Royale Canadienne) no longer manufactures Canada's circulating coins, this Ottawa facility creates finely crafted medals, commemorative coins for collectors, and awards in precious metals. These include Olympic medals.

The 45-minute guided tours are fascinating, especially on weekdays when you can see the craftspeople at work. You'll also see one of three giant gold loonies (Canadian dollar coins) minted here, and get to hold a real gold ingot. Tour groups are small, so you should reserve a spot in advance.

Address: 320 Sussex Drive, Ottawa, Ontario

Ottawa's spring Canadian Tulip Festival marks the end of winter as the capital's tulips come into bloom all over the city.

Given by Queen Juliana of the Netherlands in gratitude for the city's hospitality during the Second World War, the best places to visit to see these incredible blooms and festivities are the banks of the Rideau Canal and Commissioner's Park in particular. Major's Hill Park , southwest of the basilica, is also aflame with thousands of tulips.

In all, several million tulips bloom in the city, with tulip attraction sites spread out on a scenic "Tulip Route." Fireworks and performances are also regular attractions.

Address: Queen Elizabeth Driveway, Ottawa, Ontario

Located in Ottawa's busy Lower Town and just a short distance north of the Rideau Canal, the Byward Market has enjoyed a colorful existence since 1846.

In summer, fruit, flower, and vegetable stalls in the streets supplement the food stores in the main market hall.

The entire area surrounding the market has been lovingly restored and now is a neighborhood filled with restaurants and smart boutiques. Feeling peckish? Favorites include Le Moulin de Provence , a French bakery serving incredible pastries and coffees, and for a full meal, the classy Luxe Steakhouse across the road.

Address: 41 York Street, 4th Floor, Ottawa, Ontario

Fresh from a multimillion-dollar renovation that upgraded its exhibits and the building itself, the Canada Science and Technology Museum (Musée des sciences et de la technologie du Canada) impresses not only with its scale but its ultra-modern design.

Often referred to simply as the "CSTM," this state-of-the-art museum highlights Canada's major innovations in the fields of science and technology through fascinating displays and hands-on learning.

Highlights include its vast collection of artifacts, featuring everything from cars and trucks to airplanes and locomotives. Of special interest are a large model of the ill-fated Titanic , vintage snowmobiles, musical instruments, and household appliances made in Canada.

A café and gift shop are located on-site.

Address: Scientique, 1867 St. Laurent Boulevard, Ottawa, Ontario

Another of the top attractions in Ottawa to recently receive a make-over, the Bank of Canada Museum is a fun diversion for those interested in history and finances. Housed in a strikingly designed building close to Parliament Hill, this museum features interactive displays and exhibits relating to the Canada's National Currency Collection.

Highlights of a visit to this top free thing to do in Ottawa include numerous examples of currency from across the globe, antique cash registers, as well as a library and archive.

Address: 30 Bank Street, Ottawa, Ontario

Dows Lake Pavilion is set in a beautiful location near the city's arboretum and Experimental Farm, jutting out into and overlooking the lake after which it's named.

This facility has a number of different restaurants, including an outdoor patio that is very popular in summer. The pavilion also looks out over the docks where it's possible to rent paddleboats, canoes, kayaks, or bikes.

The lake is also a popular fishing destination. In winter, you can rent skates and sleds, and the park hosts events during the Winterlude festival. In the spring, it's decorated with formal tulip displays during the Tulip Festival.

Address: 1001 Queen Elizabeth Drive, Ottawa, Ontario

Luxury Hotels:

• Set in the historic ByWard Market neighborhood, the Andaz Ottawa is a contemporary, design-focused hotel. The rooms and suites have excellent city views and are spacious and comfortable. Dogs are also welcome here. Amenities include a rooftop terrace with stunning views, a restaurant, workout room, and valet parking.
• In the central business district across from the Rideau Canal, The Westin Ottawa is a 4-star property. Rooms and suites have great views of the city, and there are family rooms available if you're traveling with kids. Amenities include an indoor, saltwater swimming pool; hot tub; restaurant; squash courts; and a coffee shop. The Westin is pet-friendly.
• Le Germain Hotel Ottawa is one of the top luxury sleeps in he city. The rooms and suites are stylish, with wall-length murals and hardwood floors, as well as perks like Nespresso machines and rainfall showers. Kids stay free here, and the hotel also welcomes pets. Amenities include a restaurant, workout room, and courtesy car guests can reserve for short trips.

Mid-Range Hotels:

• Located downtown, the Alt Hotel Ottawa is within walking distance of a number of attractions, including Parliament Hall and The National War Memorial. The trendy 3-star property features spacious rooms, including options for families (kids stay free here). Amenities include a restaurant, billiards room, and small gym. The hotel is pet friendly.
• Another popular mid-range option is the Residence Inn by Marriott Ottawa Airport . Rooms and suites are modern, with bright-colored accent walls, and they come with kitchenettes. Breakfast is complimentary, and there is an indoor swimming pool, hot tub, and fitness center on the grounds. Kids also stay free here.
• Homewood Suites by Hilton Ottawa Downtown has a central downtown location and is just a few steps from a subway station to access other parts of the city. The all-suite property features spacious rooms with full kitchens that are convenient, especially for extended stays. A complimentary hot breakfast is served each morning. Other amenities include a restaurant, heated indoor swimming pool, and a workout room. The hotel is pet-friendly.

Budget Hotels:

• Rideau Heights Inn is a good budget choice. Just a short drive from downtown, it has basic but comfy rooms. Amenities include a complimentary breakfast, a picnic area, and a vending machine. If you're traveling with a dog, the hotel is pet-friendly.
• A family-friendly hotel near the airport, Adam's Airport Inn is another budget option. The motel has clean and comfortable rooms with fridges and desks. A complimentary breakfast is served, parking is free, and there is an on-site vending machine.

More on Canada

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9 Best Places to Visit in Ottawa (From a Local)

Table of Contents

Ottawa is a great city to visit in Canada, but most people don’t realize there’s more to do than visiting Parliament. Both Canadians and foreigners often associate the city with government, and forget all the other amazing places you can visit that aren’t on Parliament Hill.

I’ve visited Ottawa my whole life from Toronto, and moved here in 2021. I’ve spent years exploring the city’s best popular spots and hidden gems, and I want to share them with you.

Of course I’ll include popular spots like Parliament Hill and the Rideau Canal, but we’ll also go off the beaten path to my favourite noodle spot in Kanata and the only spot you can see cows in Downtown Ottawa.

Let’s start planning your perfect Ottawa trip!

1. Parliament Hill

We’re kicking off this list with a classic: you can’t miss Parliament Hill when you visit Ottawa.

The iconic buildings are a national historic site and feature stunning Gothic architecture. Plus, it’s free to visit! You can take a tour of the buildings or simply stroll around the grounds and snap some photos.

At 10 am every morning during the summer, there is a changing of the guards ceremony that’s also free to attend. In winter, at night the Parliament Buildings become the backdrop for one of the best Christmas Lights displays in Ottawa.

Since it’s such a central location, Parliament Hill is an easy place to stop while you’re Downtown. I recommend popping down to the Rideau Canal Walkway beneath the Parliament Buildings to get the best pictures of them on top of the cliff. It’s especially pretty at twilight.

You can also view it from Major’s Hill Park, which neighbours the Art Gallery of Ontario. I recommend combining a day at Parliament with a trip to the AGO.

2. Rideau Canal

The Rideau Canal is a stunning place to visit in Ottawa. But since it’s a giant canal that runs around the downtown core, there’s a lot of places to visit along it.

I recommend heading down to the Dominion Arboretum beside Dow’s Lake. Here you’ll be able to see the tulips from the Canadian Tulip Festival and go for summer bike rides along the canal. You can also rent kayaks here in the summer and paddle your way down the canal.

In winter, the canal freezes and becomes the world’s longest outdoor skating rink. This is a popular spot for getting on the canal and houses one of the huts where you can rent skates.

I love walking my dog along the canal. When he was a crazy puppy, we’d go all the way around the city just to tire him out enough that he wouldn’t eat my baseboards. It took about 90 minutes all told.

If you don’t have a dog with you, you can stop by the Experimental Farm located at the Dominion. It’s got cows, pigs, and more for the whole family to explore. This was my favourite place in Ottawa as a kid – I even tried to feed the cows my Barbies!

Kanata is a suburb 30 minutes West of Ottawa. I moved there after my first year living right beside Parliament became too much with a puppy.

Kanata is a hidden gem most tourists never visit, which is a shame because it’s home to some of the best hiking in Ottawa and the best noodles.

Kanata Noodle House is a must visit. I get laksa every week from there for like $20 and it lasts me 3 meals because it’s giant!

Nearby, you can explore the Beaver Pond and South March Highland to walk off some of the food you just ate. Both are very dog friendly – although the latter requires dogs to be on leash. They’re open year round and are easy to explore in winter.

Pair a visit to Kanata with a stop at the Diefenbunker Museum in Carp (the suburb directly beside Kanata). This is a Cold War museum that features military artifacts and exhibits.

4. Gatineau Park

I know it’s weird to say one of the best places to visit in Ottawa isn’t even in Ottawa, but it’s true! Ottawa is the gateway to Gatineau. Drive 30 minutes north of the city, or take the leaf peeping bus in fall, to go on the city’s best hikes.

Ottawa kind of unofficially claims Hull and Gatineau as part of the city, like bonus suburbs.

I took my dog almost every weekend during summer of 2022, and we still go regularly, to hike the different trails.

The easiest that’s still fun is the Mackenzie King Estate. A harder one that I loved in spring is Luskville Falls. In winter, many of the trails become cross country ski and snowshoe trails. I’ve only snowshoed on them, and they’re very well maintained.

In the summer, it’s a perfect spot for camping in Ottawa.

Gatineau is also just north of Chelsea, which has cute little cafes with amazing hot chocolate and sausage rolls.

To the East of Downtown Ottawa is Orleans. It’s home to Mer Bleue Bog which is one of the most popular interpretive walks in the city. Many people call it a “hiking” trail, but since it’s a boardwalk I don’t really agree.

I see it as a great walking trail though.

My next favourite thing in Orleans is Petrie Island Beach. The white sand really doesn’t feel like it belongs in Canada. In the summer, this is a hugely popular beach with locals.

The shallow area makes the Ottawa River warmer than in other spots, so it’s easy to swim.

Don’t forget to stop for beer ! Stray Dog Brewing Company and Orleans Brewing Company are both based here. My roommate often made us stop on our way home from hikes to have a bevvy before going home.

The best museum in Ottawa hands down is the Canadian Museum of History in Hull. It’s just across from Parliament Hill, so you get great views of the whole city.

I’ve been a number of times and between the permanent and rotating exhibits, I always feel like I need to spend more time there to see it all.

My favourite are the totem pole in the lobby. They often have local Indigenous Peoples come to teach about their culture in front of them on holidays, like Canada Day.

You can easily spend a whole day, but you’ll need at least 2 hours to really enjoy the museum.

Just beside the museum is the Interprovincial Zipline where you can zip between Quebec and Ontario.

7. Westboro and Wellington Village

Wellington is my favourite area of Ottawa. It and Westboro are home to local boutiques and the best brunch spots in the city.

If you enjoy food at all, you need to get yourself down to Chesterfields to try their eggs benedict. I’ve eaten through their menu twice over now and I’ve yet to find anything that isn’t delicious.

Shoppers will enjoy the small businesses with one of a kind items, and great souvenir options.

The area is more residential than Downtown, but it still has a lot going on. It’s always just busy enough to feel lively, and there are always new spots for food popping up.

Some other classics of the village are: Suzy Q’s Donuts, Strawberry Blonde Bakery, Wellington Diner, and TacoLot.

8. ByWard Market

ByWard is a market dating back to the 1800s. Now it’s less of an open air market – except on weekends in the summer when extra stalls open up – and more of an indoor experience.

It’s one of the best places to get fresh meat, seafood and bread in the city. It’s home to a cafe where Barack Obama got a cookie once and it blew up on social media.

My favourite thing to get here is a BeaverTail from the stand outside the market. I’ve got a serious sweet tooth, so I’m always snacking on the cinnamon sugar versions.

Another favourite of mine in the area is Level One Game Pub. It’s a boardgame cafe on the 2nd level, and a video game cafe on the 1st level. They have the best deep fried mac and cheese bites, and the best chicken fingers in all of Ottawa.

9. The Glebe

The Glebe is one of the most popular neighbourhoods for young locals to live in. It’s just south of Downtown Ottawa – sometimes still considered a part of Downtown.

The area is more unique than downtown, with small businesses and a lot of alternative stores.

And it’s home to amazing food.

I’m a big fan of the St. Rita and Jericho. For ice cream, stop by Moo Shu for their unique flavours.

It’s also where you can find the Natural History Museum. I went with my friends once and was shocked at how big the place was! You can spend 1-2 hours easily just walking without reading anything, but you’ll need longer if you really want to deep dive into any of the exhibits.

If you visit in summer , be sure to spend your time in Gatineau Park. In winter , I’d focus on Kanata and the Rideau Canal areas.

But no matter where you go in Ottawa, you’ll be surprised by how many things there are to do.

Everyone told me I’d be bored when I moved out from Toronto, but I found it more accessible to actually do the things than in Toronto. It’s easier to get around, more affordable, and there’s more variety in the activities.

I hope this inspires you to make a trip to Ottawa a reality. Be sure to check out the best time to visit though!

Read More About Ottawa

• Local’s Ottawa Pronunciation Guide: How to Pronounce “Ottawa”
• What is the Primary Language in Ottawa, Canada?
• Is Ottawa in Quebec?
• Is Ottawa tap water safe to drink?
• How to Get From Ottawa Airport to Downtown Ottawa
• Where to Stay in Ottawa: 13 Best Neighbourhoods and Hotels
• Is Ottawa a Province?
• How Many Days in Ottawa is Ideal?
• Best Grocery Stores in Ottawa: Where to Shop in Ottawa
• 71 Fun Facts About Ottawa Canada
• 12 Best Ottawa Hotels With Jacuzzi In Room
• Is Ottawa a Good Place to Live? 27 Pros & Cons
• 22 Best Hotels in Ottawa with Pools
• What is the Drinking Age in Ottawa?
• Is Ottawa Worth Visiting? (Local’s Guide)
• What is Ottawa Known For? 31 Reasons Why Ottawa is Famous
• Ottawa Trip Budget Calculator to Plan Your Dream Trip

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Ottawa Travel Planning Guide

🚑  Should I buy Ottawa travel insurance?

100% YES!  — There’s a misconception that Canada has “free healthcare” for everyone. Nope! Only Canadians. So you’ll need to get travel insurance to visit Ottawa. I recommend this one.

💧 Can you drink the tap water in Ottawa?

Yes – ish  — While you can technically drink the tap water in Ottawa, as a local I don’t recommend it. Old hotels especially can have some nasty things in their pipes. Instead, get a filtered water bottle . ( Read more )

🚙💨  Do I need to rent a car in Ottawa?

Yes  — Renting a car in Ottawa is one of the best ways to get around! You’ll be able to see more of the city and beyond, like the epic hiking trails. I recommend Discover Cars for the cheapest rates possible.

📲  Do I need to know French in Ottawa?

Nope!  — The primary language of Ottawa is English. While French is also spoken and on some signs, you can easily get by without knowing any French. ( Read more )

🏩  What’s the best way to book my Ottawa accommodations?

For Ottawa hotels,  Booking  is the best site. If you’re considering an Ottawa Airbnb, don’t forget to also check  VRBO , which is often cheaper than Airbnb. My #1 hotel recommendation in Ottawa is the Fairmont Chateau Laurier.

✈️  What’s the best site to buy Ottawa flights?

For finding cheap Ottawa flights, I recommend  Skyscanner . You can even set a price alert to find out when flights are on sale.

🎫  Do I need a Visa for Ottawa?

Likely Not  — U.S. and most European Passport holders don’t need a Visa to visit Canada.

📍  Where is Ottawa? And what’s nearby?

Ottawa is the capital city of Canada, located in Ontario. It’s right on the border of Quebec . It’s about 2 hours from Mont Tremblant, 3 hours from Montreal, or 5 hours from Toronto . You can take a road trip to get to other places or fly.

Nina Clapperton is the founder of Ottawa Things to Do. Nina has lived in 18 countries before deciding to settle in Ottawa, nearby Toronto where she grew up. She has spent years proving that Ottawa isn't the town "fun forgot" and helping locals and tourists alike find fun things to do. She helps over 60,000 people a month discover the amazing activities in Ottawa, Canada.

Ottawa   Travel Guide

Courtesy of Danielle Donders | Getty Images

11 Best Things To Do in Ottawa

Updated Feb. 12, 2021

Ottawa was designed with tourists in mind: There's plenty to see and do, and everything is just a short walk away. First off, there are two attractions that you really can't avoid: touring Parliament Hill and strolling along the Rideau Canal (both of

• All Things To Do

Rideau Canal Rideau Canal free

Snaking its way through the center of Ottawa, the Rideau Canal is one of the city's most historic attractions. This 125-mile waterway was originally constructed between 1826 and 1832 to create a secure supply and communications route between Montreal , Québec, and Kingston, Ontario – roughly 120 miles southwest of the capital. It's also a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the city's most beloved features.

During the summer, you'll find the Rideau Canal filled with boats (both private and commercial) and the paved pathways surrounding it crowded with walkers, runners and bicyclists. If you'd like to tour the canal by boat, consider signing up for a trip with Rideau Canal Cruises . Cruises, which take visitors from Chateau Laurier to Dow's Lake (round trip), typically last 90 minutes and take visitors past nearly 30 sights along the canal. You can also borrow a bike from RentABike for CA$10 (around $8) an hour. As the temperatures begin to drop, the canal transforms into the world's largest skating rink, spanning 4.8 miles and featuring a surface area equivalent to 90 Olympic-sized hockey rinks. It's also lined with stands selling hot chocolate and soup, as well as heated huts in case you need a break from the cold.

ByWard Market ByWard Market free

Sitting in the heart of downtown Ottawa, the beloved ByWard Market is one of the country's oldest and largest public markets. Throughout the year, you'll find local vendors selling everything from souvenir trinkets to maple sugar candy to handmade cold-weather necessities like hats and mittens. This is the ideal place for fresh produce or a cheap meal on-the-go; during the summer, outdoor stalls sell local favorites like poutine (french fries topped with cheese curds and gravy) and BeaverTails (fried dough covered in everything from chocolate to cheese). Surrounding the main market building – home to the Moulin de Provence Bakery, a favorite snack stop of President Obama – are numerous boutiques, restaurants and nightlife spots. Don't worry if you're visiting in the winter – those same yummy stalls stay open, but they just move indoors.  

Most recent visitors agreed that you have to stop by this market during your stay and advised setting aside several hours to explore the vendors and surrounding businesses (reviewers were especially fond of the pubs).

Canadian War Museum Canadian War Museum

Perched on the steep slopes framing the Ottawa River, the Canadian War Museum pays homage to Canada's long and violent military history, including its involvement in the French and Indian War and both World Wars I and II. Designed by Raymond Moriyama, one of the thousands of Japanese-Canadians imprisoned during World War II, this stoic museum houses remnants from Canada's numerous military endeavors, many of which resulted in tragedy. Among the museum's more than 3 million artifacts, it houses artillery, uniforms, medals, documents, sound and visual recordings and rare vehicles. It also showcases temporary interactive exhibitions, such as a recent display that told the story of WWI air combat though a graphic novel presentation.

Recent visitors gushed about the museum, recommending that future travelers reserve at least half a day (or more, if you're a history buff) to tour the moving exhibits. Beyond the artifacts and informative displays, the museum won favor with reviewers for its thoughtful layout and design. Others added that kids were as captivated by the museum as adults.

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Parliament Hill Parliament Hill free

Acting as the anchor of downtown Ottawa, these three neo-Gothic structures are hard to miss. Like its mother country – England – Canada is governed by a parliamentary democracy, and it is here on the Hill that decisions are made on how to run the country. But just like the city itself, the Parliament buildings put tourists on a pedestal, catering to their whims with free guided tours, concerts, cultural exhibitions and even a seasonal after-hours sound and light show. Recent travelers said visiting Parliament Hill is an experience you can't miss, with many saying that walking around the palatial buildings felt like taking a step back in time. The knowledgeable guides were another point of praise for reviewers.

Several areas are open to the public, the most notable being the Centre Block. From here, you can head upward to the observation deck of the Peace Tower for a bird's-eye view of the city (the highlight for many recent visitors), or pay tribute to Canadians killed during military service in the Memorial Chamber (tours of these areas are self-guided). On the central lawn, you can observe the vibrant Changing of the Guard ceremony, which occurs every day in summer (June through August) at 10 a.m. To the north is the octagonal Library of Parliament, with ornate galleries and colorful windows that shelter hundreds of priceless books. Recent visitors agreed that the Centre Block and the Library of Parliament are well worth a visit.

National Gallery of Canada National Gallery of Canada

Facing Parliament Hill in downtown Ottawa, the National Gallery of Canada is a must for all art aficionados. This magnificent glass structure – easily recognized by the gargantuan spider sculpture at its entrance – houses works from heavyweights like da Vinci, Michelangelo and Picasso, along with indigenous and contemporary pieces . You'll also find some works by famous Canadian artists like Joseph Légaré and Antoine Plamondon, among many others. There are also a host of renowned temporary exhibits each year.

Recent visitors said they were as impressed with the building as they were the art, with many describing the facility as an "architectural wonder." Others were pleased without the variety of mediums on display, calling the gallery's permanent collection encyclopedic.

Gatineau Park Gatineau Park free

When you need a break from the city, head to Gatineau Park. Located just 15 minutes from downtown Ottawa, this nearly 90,000-acre park offers a variety of year-round activities, including swimming, hiking, biking, camping, cross-country skiing and snowshoeing, in addition to heritage sites and nature interpretation. Among the standout attractions is the Mackenzie King Estate, which was constructed in 1903 by Canada's 10th prime minister, William Lyon Mackenzie King. You can explore the wooded paths surrounding the estate, peek into its restored cottages (which also feature interactive exhibits) or even stop into the Mackenzie King Tearoom for a spot of tea.

Recent visitors raved about Gatineau Park, calling it a national treasure and a peaceful oasis. Reviewers were particularly fond of the park's many scenic lookouts (especially the popular Champlain Lookout, which offers a bird's-eye view from the Gatineau Hills over the Ottawa Valley). From the lookouts, you can explore connecting hiking trails, such as the path that surrounds Pink Lake, another popular lookout spot in the park.

Canadian Museum of Nature Canadian Museum of Nature

Housing more than 10 million specimens, the Canadian Museum of Nature showcases 4 billion years of Earth history. Recent visitors agreed this is a must-see, especially if you're traveling with children, thanks to all of the museum's hands-on exhibits. Here, you'll learn more about prehistoric fossils, insects, wildlife and more. Start out in the Mammal Gallery, where you'll view dioramic displays on Canadian animals, then head over to the Bird Gallery to see the largest collection of Canadian birds in the world.

Sitting southwest of downtown Ottawa near Jack Purcell Park, the Canadian Museum of Nature welcomes visitors from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. every day during the summer and every day (except Monday) from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. during the winter. On Thursdays throughout the year and summer Fridays, the museum stays open until 8 p.m. and offers free admission from 5 to 8 p.m. General admission costs CA$13.50 (about $10) for adults and CA$9.50 (around $7) for children ages 3 to 12 (special exhibitions are not included in general admission). You'll find plenty of parking near the museum, but if you don't have your own set of wheels, several OC Transpo routes can drop you off within a block of the museum. Or, if you'd rather use your own two feet, you'll find that the facility is about a 20-minute walk from  Parliament Hill . For more information, check out the official website .

Canada Aviation and Space Museum Canada Aviation and Space Museum

The Canada Aviation and Space Museum is home to the country's most comprehensive collection of vintage aircraft, which includes more than 130 artifacts and aircraft from both military and civil service. The main exhibit hall – known as the "Walkway of Time" – follows Canadian aviation developments from the start of the 20th century through to the present day and features both authentic planes and replicas of the most influential aircraft. You can even book a sightseeing flight over Ottawa in a Waco UPF-7, a vintage, open-cockpit biplane that dates back to 1939. The museum also offers seasonal sightseeing flights in a Cessna aircraft.

Recent visitors who self-identified as aviation nuts raved about the museum's collection and its exhibits. But even reviewers who said they had only a passing interest in aircraft said the museum was engaging and fascinating, especially for kids. Travelers suggested setting aside several hours to tour the museum's hands-on exhibits.

Lilo Floating Tiki Bar on the Ottawa River

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from $ 63.86

Best of Ottawa Small Group Tour with River Cruise

(110 reviews)

from $ 134.48

Ottawa Hop-On Hop-Off Sightseeing Tour

(299 reviews)

Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica free

Even if you're not an avid churchgoer, the silvery spires of Ottawa's Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica are sure to catch your eye. Sitting across the street from the National Gallery of Canada , this impressive church is the oldest in the city as well as a Canadian national historic site and the seat of Ottawa's Catholic archbishop. While it may seem a little daunting from the outside, recent visitors say that you shouldn't be deterred from going inside.

Past travelers gushed about the architecture and stained-glass windows inside the cathedral, and highly recommended planning a short visit, especially if you're already planning to stop by the National Gallery of Canada.

Bytown Museum Bytown Museum

When it comes to brushing up on Ottawa's history, there's no better place than the Bytown Museum. Housed in what was once the commissariat for food and materials during the construction of the Rideau Canal , Ottawa's oldest stone building now pays tribute to the city's canal builder, Lieutenant-Colonel John By. Exhibits feature artifacts from early Ottawa – formerly known as Bytown – including period rooms and household items from the late 19th century.

Recent visitors said though Bytown is small, it's well worth a look. Other veteran tourists strongly recommended renting an audio guide (offered by the museum at no additional cost) to better understand the exhibits.

Canadian Museum of History Canadian Museum of History

Spread across four floors and nearly 300,000 square feet, the Canadian Museum of History (formerly the Canadian Museum of Civilization) is a behemoth. Welcoming more than 1.2 million people annually, it's also one of the country's most-visited museums. And it's easy to see why: Not only does the museum house artifacts and exhibits that detail 20,000 years of human history, it's also home to the Canadian Children's Museum and an Imax theater, CINÉ+. Among the museum's standout attractions are its collection of totem poles in its First Peoples Hall exhibition and its life-sized recreations of Canadian settlements over the past 1,000 years.

Recent visitors marveled at the building itself and praised the museum's vast collection of totem poles. Reviewers also appreciated that the children's museum offered plenty of hands-on activities for little ones (though some griped that the general museum admission does not include access to the children's museum or CINÉ+).

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31 Awesome Things to Do in Ottawa, Canada (Picked by a Local)

By: Author Taylor Lorenz

Posted on Last updated: 11/03/2021

I grew up in Ottawa and while I loved to dismiss this capital city as boring, Ottawa is far from it! There are so many things to do in Ottawa from your traditional sightseeing to outdoor activities that get you out in nature and on the water, to foodie highlights, and more.

I’ve rounded up the best things to do in Ottawa for tourists and locals alike with my personal recommendations plus the must-see sites in Ottawa. Whether you’re here for one day in Ottawa, a weekend in Ottawa, or you live here, there is plenty to see, do, and taste.

Table of Contents

Top Things to Do in Ottawa

Hand-picked by a local, here are the must-consider things to do in Ottawa.

Ottawa Sightseeing

Ottawa sightseeing alone will keep you busy, so pick your favourites if you’re only here for a short while.

Visit Parliament Hill

Don’t think that Parliament Hill is a place to skip, Ottawa has beautiful, neo-gothic Parliament buildings that are in central downtown and easy to get to. Even if you just go to see the outside and snap a few pictures, it’s worth it. But you can go inside with guided tours that take you through the East Block, the House of Commons (West Block) and to see the truly grand Library of Parliament (but just for a peek). Tickets must be reserved and are limited. Keep in mind you can only bring in a small bag and one bottle of water, so pack light for this day of Ottawa sightseeing!

Join a walking tour

Like many major cities around the world, Ottawa, too, has a free walking tour you can join. The catch? You just have to tip. These tours are informative, giving you a basic outline of Ottawa’s history, and fun or unique facts about the capital, plus they help to orient you around the downtown core.

See the Changing of the Guard

Just like in London, Budapest, and other capital cities, in Ottawa, you can watch the changing of the guard, and you have two options! The smaller of the two changing of the guards can be seen at the National WW1 Memorial, just down Wellington Street from the Parliament Buildings. It showcases two guards and a piper changing duties in front of the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.

The larger, quite impressive, changing of the guard happens on Parliament Hill’s east lawn at 10AM every day from late June until the end of August. Arrive early not only for a good view but to hear the explanation of the ceremony at 9:45AM that is modeled after one performed in England that began in 1959.

Check out the ByWard Market

An area of downtown Ottawa and a market of the same name, the Byward Market is the best place to visit in Ottawa for first-time visitors. The market itself is a collection of shops and restaurants, and it’s here that you can find the famous Obama cookies (find them at Le Moulin De Provence) that represent the new era between Canada and the US when Obama became president. During the summer vendors pop up around the indoor part of the market selling lots of handmade pieces, clothing, fresh produce from the area, and flowers.

Aside from the actual market, there is an abundance of restaurants, hotels, clubs, bars, and shopping, including one of Ottawa’s finest malls, the Rideau Centre. Don’t miss getting a beavertail from the BeaverTail stand on the corner of George and William Streets!

Go to Court

If you visit the Supreme Court of Canada and opt to take a tour, you can actually attend a trial if one is happening while you’re in the building! The building itself was built in 1939 and is an impressive art deco building with a grand marble entrance. Tours are free and are conducted every day in English and French. In the summer months, all you have to do is show up. During the off-season of September to April, you must book in advance .

Stroll down Sparks Street

Sparks Street is Canada’s first pedestrian mall and it’s here that you can grab food, find souvenir shops, lots of cafes, patios, and a relaxed area to wander through. It’s also where a number of festivals in Ottawa are held including Rib Fest , the Ottawa Busker Festival, and more.

Haunted Walk of Ottawa

Ottawa has a bit of an eerie past and you’ll learn all of the stories around some of Ottawa’s most famous sites on the famous Haunted Walk of Ottawa . It’s a great way to get to know the city and a different side to places such as the Fairmont Château Laurier and a haunted high school.

Enjoy the Rideau Canal

The Rideau Canal has historical significance as it was originally built to connect Ottawa and Kingston (the original capital) and Lake Ontario, but it also was used for military defense when Canada and the US were at war in 1812.

Today this 200 kilometre waterway is a picturesque part of Ottawa that is enjoyed year-round. In the summer you can boat along the canal (or join a canal cruise if you don’t have a boat), opt to stay on land and enjoy a meal or drinks alongside the canal or try out the walking and cycling paths that are on either side. Don’t miss seeing the Ottawa locks (beside the Chateau Laurier). There is a patio and a green space to sit at and watch as boats move through the locks to the Ottawa River.

In the winter the Rideau Canal turns into one of the world’s longest skating paths (apparently Winnipeg and has gone and beat the record), which is one of the best things to do in Ottawa in winter . Skates can be rented on the canal and you can get hot drinks and BeaverTails right on the ice.

See the views from Major’s Hill Park

One of my personal favourite things to do when visiting cities is to check out the local parks. Ottawa’s main downtown park does not disappoint. Major’s Hill Park is a decently sized park that delivers optimal views. On one side you get the back of the Fairmont Chateau Laurier which is a picturesque castle-like hotel. On another, you have the Parliament Buildings and the Ottawa River, and on another, you see the pretty glass building that is the National Art Gallery.

Take some time to chill out here in the grass and walk around the paths, especially in the spring when the Ottawa Tulip Festival is happening. Tavern on the Hill is here, where you can grab nice cocktails and street food with a great view.

Nepean Point

An easy stroll from Major’s Hill Park, Nepean Point is one of the best viewpoints in central Ottawa. Take a walk up here (don’t worry it’s not a big hill and it’s paved) to see the back of the Parliament Buildings that feature the original Library of Parliament, where the Rideau Canal meets the Ottawa River, and over into Quebec.

Notre Dame Basilica

Located behind Major’s Hill Park and right across from the National Art Gallery, this so-called minor basilica has two shiny spires that were added later (after 1846 when it was originally built), that certainly grabs your attention. Inside the basilica, it is a detailed masterpiece. It is the oldest and largest church in Ottawa and is a designated National Historic site, so be sure to pop in for a look or join in on one of the guided tours that are run in the summer months.

Ottawa Museums

Ottawa has a wide selection of museums, so no matter what kind of museum you like, there’s one for you. Many of the museums in Ottawa are free on Thursdays after 4 or 5PM (it depends on the museum) until close.

National Gallery of Canada

This art museum has a great selection of both Canadian and international art and always brings in spectacular exhibits that change every so often. The big draw to the National Gallery of Canada , though, is Maman, a giant bronze spider that sits out front of the gallery. It’s one of six spiders that the artist Louise Bourgeois created. The others are located in destinations such as Tokyo, London, England, Doha, and more.

Canadian Museum of Nature

One of my personal favourite museums in Ottawa, the Canadian Museum of Nature has excellent permanent exhibits of animals from around Canada and the world. Plus, the building the museum is in looks like a castle!

Canadian Museum of History

The Canadian Museum of History is actually located in Hull, on the Quebec side of the river but it’s still a popular thing to do in Ottawa. The museum has a large space, the Grand Hall with art and pieces from Indigenous people’s which is one of the main highlights. But there is also a wide selection of permanent and travelling exhibitions showcasing history over the last 20,000 years.

Canadian War Museum

Located in a striking, modern building along the Ottawa River, the Canadian War Museum details Canada’s military history as well as the formation of Canada. You can expect to find a collection of tanks, jeeps, armored vehicles, and even Hitler’s limo.

Canadian Science and Technology Museum

Great for kids and curious adults alike, the Canadian Science and Technology Museum is an interactive playground that highlights Canada’s innovation. It underwent major upgrades in 2017 so for locals who only visited as kids…it’s worth checking out again!

Canada Aviation and Space Museum

With over 130 aircraft and artifacts that are from civil and military service, this museum that’s focused on Canadian achievements in the air is one to visit. The Canada Aviation and Space Museum is located on what was once a military base and includes details on Canada’s contribution to air and space travel since 1909.

Royal Canadian Mint

Located in the original building where the Canadian Mint was located in 1908, today you can visit to see how coins in Canada are made as well as medals, gold bullion coins, and more. It’s also here that you can see the Vancouver 2010 athlete medals.

Bank of Canada Museum

The Bank of Canada is a highly interactive museum that aims to show Canadian’s how they play a part in the economy by understanding it better.

Diefenbunker Museum

Named Canada’s Cold War Museum , the Diefenbunker is an underground bunker that has been converted into a museum detailing the history of the cold war era in Canada. The bunker was originally built during this era for the then Prime Minister, John Diefenbaker (hence the name), and other important Canadian officials in case of a nuclear attack. Since this museum is located on the outskirts of Ottawa, a car is needed to get to it.

Adventure in Ottawa

There are plenty of spaces in and around Ottawa to get outdoors.

Go White Water Rafting

Think you need to get out of the city to go white water rafting? Think again! You have your choice of white water rafting or tubing down the Ottawa River with great views, cliff jumping, and more with Ottawa City Rafting .

Hiking in Gatineau Park

Technically not in Ottawa, but within a 20-minute drive, Gatineau Park is an incredible area to explore for outdoor lovers. As a destination to visit year-round, the summer has numerous hiking trails to stellar viewpoints, cycling paths, and mountain biking, not to mention places to rent kayaks, canoes, and more, plus caves to explore. In the winter the trails are wonderful for cross country skiing.

Popular Trails in Gatineau Park:

• King Mountain
• Luskville Falls

Hiking on the Greenbelt

In Ottawa itself, there are a number of hiking trails on the Greenbelt, an area of the city that was created in the 1950s to stop urban sprawl into rural areas. Today you can hike and cycle this biodiverse area of the city.

Popular Trails on the Ottawa Greenbelt:

• Shoreline Trail
• Stony Swamp Trails
• Old Quarry Trail
• Jack Pine Trail

Ottawa Food Experiences

This capital packs a punch when it comes to delicious treats.

Try a BeaverTail

When in Canada…don’t miss trying a beavertail! This delicious pastry is fried dough, stretched out to look like a beavertail, and topped with goodies. The original is cinnamon sugar, but these days you can get a huge variety with toppings that can include Oreos, Reese’s Pieces, Nutella, and more.

Fine dine at Fairmont Chateau Laurier

The Chateau Laurier is a fabulous hotel but you don’t have to be a guest to enjoy the luxuries it offers. Try afternoon tea at Zoe’s, it’s spectacular, or head to La Terrasse, their patio that has one of the most over-the-top caesars I’ve ever seen and a view over the Ottawa locks.

Get to Stella Luna Gelato

A charming little cafe on Bank Street, this gelato shop has a romantic back story. The owners are an Ottawa local and Italian-born couple that began their relationship in Italy, Rome specifically. They moved to Ottawa and opened this gelateria to serve up delicious gelato, in true Italian style.

Sip a cocktail at Tavern on the Hill

Located in Major’s Hill Park, this is one patio that you’re going to want to visit. With delicious (and big) cocktails and a menu that includes gourmet hot dogs and tacos, you can kick back in the heart of Ottawa with a great view.

Relaxation in Ottawa

Don’t forget to take some time to indulge and pamper yourself.

Hop over to Quebec to find Le Nordik, a nordic spa that can be visited any season. With thermal pools, saunas, and cool dips, the real experience here is taking part in the whole thermal cycle. Massages, other treatments, food, and drinks can be enjoyed on-site too. This is one relaxing day that you won’t regret!

Dows Lake is a manmade lake that is an ideal spot to relax in the summer months. Check out this spot close to downtown to sit by the water or get out on it by renting a kayak, canoe, paddleboard, or pedal boat. In the winter skating is an option here too.

Catch the sunset at Andaz

Andaz has the highest rooftop patio in Ottawa and it’s at this trendy Ottawa hotel that you can find delicious cocktails and a stellar view to watch the sunset as the sun disappears behind the Parliament Buildings.

Head to the beach

If you need a break from all the hustle and bustle, head to one of Ottawa’s beaches. On the west side of the city, you’ll find Britannia Beach and Westboro Beach, and on the east side, there is Petrie Island.

You’re covered for things to do in Ottawa, enjoy your time in my hometown! And welcome!

Continue planning your trip to Ottawa!

• The Ultimate Ottawa Food Tour
• Best Day Trips from Ottawa
• Canada Trip Planning

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15 Epic Things to Do in Ottawa (Perfect First Time Visit)

Things to do in ottawa: the 15 best places to visit (all highlights).

You want to visit Ottawa, the capital of Canada , during your next trip?

Great idea!

In order to help you plan your stay, I have prepared this guide of the 15 best things to do in Ottawa , with all points of interest and must-see attractions.

In addition to my list of things to do and activities, I will also give you optimized itineraries to visit ottawa in 1, 2 or 3 days as well as my selection of the best accommodations depending on your budget.

So, what are the best things to do in Ottawa? Where to stay?

Let’s find out!

1. Parliament Hill

2. canadian museum of history, 3. the rideau canal, 4. museums to check out in ottawa, 5. byward market, 6. parks to check out in ottawa, 7. for an offbeat tour of the city: the haunted walk of ottawa, 8. ottawa from above, 9. dow’s lake, 10. festivals in ottawa, 11. gatineau park, 12. montreal, 13. mont-tremblant, 14. other great activities around ottawa, how many days to visit ottawa, one day in ottawa, 2 days in ottawa, 3 days in ottawa, where to stay in ottawa, where to eat in ottawa, how to get to ottawa, my thoughts on ottawa, tourist map of ottawa, you’re traveling in canada these articles will help you, visit ottawa: all must-see attractions.

Parliament Hill is home to the federal government of Canada , where you’ll find all the Parliament buildings. It’s the main attraction in the city and therefore the perfect place to kick off your Ottawa tour .

Free guided tours run every day so you can explore the House of Commons, the Senate and the gorgeous Victorian-style library .

You can also climb to the top of the Peace Tower for a 360° panorama over Ottawa .

I’d advise you to grab your tickets early in the morning if you want to be sure of getting inside the buildings, as they operate on a first come, first served basis. Not everyone will get in.

If you choose to visit Ottawa in summer , it’s also at Parliament Hill where you can watch the Changing of the Guard .

Every single evening, from July to September, you get to soak up an awesome sound and light show projected on the buildings. Don’t miss this show for a unique insight into Canada’s history.

To find out about the timings of guided tours of this iconic Ottawa monument , check out the Parliament website .

Strolling around Ottawa is a delightful way to explore , but why not spice it up and take it to the next level? You can mix and match it with any of the awesome activities listed below (just click on the orange links to book)

• A hop-on hop-off bus tour: very handy for getting a first glimpse of the main sights to see in Ottawa .
• An amphibious bus guided tour : to admire the capital’s architecture on land and water on an hour-long guided tour.

During your stay in Ottawa, I strongly advise you to visit the Canadian Museum of History . It’s definitely THE must-see in Ottawa .

Of all the museums I visited during my trip to Canada, it’s one of my favorites . I didn’t expect to spend so much time there and even had to rush towards the end to avoid getting booted out at closing time!

The museum is located opposite Parliament Hill , on the banks of the Ottawa River. It’s one of the oldest and most visited in Canada with over a million visitors a year.

It traces all of Canada’s history since the First Nations and lets you journey back nearly 20,000 years.

The exhibitions are captivating and very well presented, so there’s no chance of getting bored even if you’re not typically a museum fan.

You’ll surely be impressed by its collection of totem poles, the largest in the world . The section dedicated to the history of the Indigenous peoples particularly grabbed my attention.

The museum is the most visited tourist site in Ottawa . To avoid wasting time at the entrance, make sure you purchase your skip-the-line ticket in advance by clicking the green button below:

Expect a minimum visit of 3 hours . The museum is huge and the collection of objects is very rich. It’s definitely worth spending some time here.

A must-see during your trip to Ottawa: a stroll along the Rideau Canal .

Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site, the oldest operating canal in North America connects the city to Kingston on Lake Ontario.

Stretching over 200 km , its banks are the ideal spot in Ottawa for a walk or bike ride during your Canadian tour . There’s even a lovely 8km cycle path . The canal’s surroundings are really well laid out and very pleasant.

For those feeling a bit more adventurous, you can even rent a canoe or kayak to paddle through it.

During the summer, you can hop on narrated cruises along the Rideau Canal and the Ottawa River, which offer a fantastic opportunity to admire some of Ottawa’s iconic buildings.

To book your cruise in Ottawa, click on the green button below:

There’s also an option to take this cruise on an electric boat . You’ll find all the details by clicking here !

And if you’re wondering what to do in Ottawa in winter , you’ll be happy to learn that the canal becomes the world’s longest natural ice rink ! Strap on your skates and glide over 7km through the entire city.

Apart from the Canadian Museum of History, there’s a slew of other museums you must visit while you’re wandering around Ottawa .

I’ve rounded up a list of Ottawa’s must-visit museums for you :

• The Canadian War Museum where you’ll get a full lowdown on Canada’s military history. Plus, you’ll get to see an enormous collection of tanks, military vehicles, and rifles there. Tickets available here !
• The National Gallery of Canada with its peculiar entrance, guarded by Maman (“mom” in French), a massive 10-meter-high spider-shaped statue. But don’t let that scare you off from admiring the 40,000 works it houses.
• The Canadian Museum of Nature , a natural history museum where you can check out gigantic dinosaur and marine mammal skeletons, including an impressive blue whale hanging overhead.
• The Canada Aviation and Space Museum , featuring a real flight simulator and a collection of 130 aircraft.
• The Bytown Museum , primarily focusing on Ottawa’s own history and the construction of the Rideau Canal.
• The Canada Agriculture and Food Museum , in reality, a working farm smack dab in the middle of the city. This is an absolute blast for kids in Ottawa! They’ll have a chance to get up close and personal with cows, sheep, and horses, making it an unforgettable experience. Adults can learn more about modern farming methods.
• The Bank of Canada Museum . Get ready to embrace your inner banker and dive headfirst into the intricate world of the Canadian economy.

Now you know where to go and what to do in Ottawa, even when the weather isn’t cooperating!

Next on this Ottawa travel guide is the Byward Market , conveniently located next to Parliament Hill.

Established in 1826, it’s one of the oldest markets in Canada . You’ll find nearly 250 stalls stocked with local products , including the famous maple syrup.

You must try a “beaver tail” , a traditional Canadian pastry. It’s a deep-fried doughnut shaped like a beaver tail that you can top with Nutella, bananas, or cinnamon . Not the best idea if you’re on a diet… but it’s just so good!

The Byward Market area is also a great place to do some shopping in Ottawa with its more than 500 stores.

And of course, there are several top-notch restaurants and cafés where you can enjoy a drink on the terrace. This neighborhood is bursting with life and energy .

If you’re ever in the mood to embrace the great outdoors, Ottawa is packed with parks just waiting for your visit ..

Apart from the well-trodden Parliament Hill, make sure you swing by:

• Major’s Hill Park , where you might just catch sight of frolicking squirrels and busy groundhogs. It gifts you with sweeping vistas of the Rideau Canal and the grand Parliament buildings.
• Then there’s Jacques-Cartier Park , renowned for its majestic snow sculptures in winter. It’s a spot where you can enjoy a stunning panorama of the Ottawa River and the Rideau Falls. It’s also a great place to hop on a bike and hit the trails.
• And don’t forget about Confederation Park , a treasure trove of sculptures, monuments, and a so-called haunted fountain. If you manage to snap a pic of the ghost, I’m all ears!

You’re going to Ottawa?

You probably know it: the hardest part of planning your trip is to find an hotel offering a good value for money!

And that’s even worse in big touristic cities like Ottawa 😅.

The closer you get to your travel dates, the harder it will be to get a good deal. Lots of people will be visiting Ottawa on the same dates as you , so you can be sure that the best deals are booked extremely quickly!

Hopefully, there is a pretty simple solution to this problem: do like me and book your hotel as early as possible!

So, my best advice is to take 5 minutes (now) to have a look at the list of travelers’ favorite hotels in Ottawa.

And if you see a good offer, book it!

Most hotels offer free cancellation, so it’s quick, easy, and you will avoid the the inconvenience of finding nothing but mediocre rooms at exorbitant prices.

To check the current best deals for your hotel in Ottawa, simply click on the green button below 😎:

Once you’ve booked your hotel, it will be time to continue reading this guide and find out more about the best things to do in Ottawa!

To experience Ottawa in a unique way , I’ve got a real gem for you: a guided ghost-themed tour !

There are several variations , each one unfolding in a different city building. You get to explore an old prison , which has been the stage for several criminals’ executions, or the Bytown Museum, Ottawa’s oldest building .

Zombie fans , don’t feel left out! There’s a tour that will lead you through underground tunnels swarming with the undead . Just make sure you aren’t bitten on your way out!

The tours last around 90 minutes and cost about twenty dollars .

You can book in advance by simply clicking on the button below:

If you’re wondering what to do in Ottawa , I’ve dug up two more incredibly fun activities to give you a bit of altitude and see the city from a whole new perspective !

Kick off with a 40 km/h urban zip line ride standing 35 meters high . Fun fact: the zip line allows you to cross from Ottawa to Gatineau , soaring over the Ottawa River.

Plus, you get to take home a video of your thrilling descent!

To book a zip line ride in Ottawa, just click on the button below:

To step it up a notch and marvel at a breathtaking view of Ottawa and the surrounding area, I’d highly recommend going for a helicopter ride .

You can book this exciting activity in Ottawa by clicking right here :

Dow’s Lake , tucked right at the heart of Ottawa, It’s a stunning spot for a stroll and a perfect retreat for a relaxing moment away from the city’s hustle and bustle.

In summer , Dow’s Lake becomes quite a hotspot because it offers a variety of water activities . You can rent canoes, kayaks, paddleboards, and paddleboats there.

Come winter , it’s all about renting skates, snowshoes, and sleds.

You’ll also have the chance to take a lunch break at one of the lake’s three restaurants .

During your trip to Ottawa, odds are you’ll stumble upon one of the many festivals organized in the city across all seasons.

Here’s a list of Ottawa’s must-attend festivals:

• The Snow Ball spans three weekends in February and offers various activities like skating, sliding, dog sledding — most of which are free. It’s famous for its international ice sculpture competition . The activities are spread throughout the city: Confederation Park, Rideau Canal, Byward Market , in museums, and more.
• The Canadian Tulip Festival , the world’s largest of its kind, happens every year in May . You’ll get to marvel at over a million blooming tulips . A festival of colors in the great outdoors.
• The Dragon Boat Festival, the largest of its kind in North America. It’s a boat race with over 200 teams and it takes place every year at the end of June .
• Bluesfest is held annually in July over a span of 10 days. This music festival has seen big-name performers like Sting, Pink or Bob Dylan . Five stages are set up along the river and inside the Canadian War Museum.
• The Jazz Festival showcases the most renowned jazz artists. It takes place in June and July at Confederation Park and the National Arts Center.
• Chamberfest , an international music festival dedicated to chamber music, happens in July and August .
• The Gatineau Hot Air Balloon Festival just a short drive from Ottawa. A mesmerizing festival that features balloon ascents every morning in early September .

Best things to do around Ottawa?

After your city exploration, I suggest you continue your Canadian adventure by exploring the areas around Ottawa .

Here’s my pick of the most beautiful places to visit around Ottawa :

Gatineau Park is situated just around Ottawa, a mere 15-minute drive from Parliament Hill .

Spanning 36 hectares, it offers over 250 km of trails winding through forests and lakes .

Whether you’re a hiking or biking enthusiast , the park is well-equipped, with trails accessible all year round. In winter , the best way to explore is by cross-country skiing .

In autumn, it dresses up in the magnificent, vibrant colors Canada is known for.

Must-see spots in Gatineau Park:

• Pink Lake , whose water is actually not pink but rather turquoise green. It’s absolutely lovely!
• King Mountain , standing tall at 344 meters
• Champlain Lookout offers the best view of the entire Gatineau Park
• Luskville Falls , which turns into a massive waterfall during the snowmelt
• Meech Lake , popular with locals as swimming is allowed
• Philippe Lake and its sandy beach, perfect for swimming
• La Pêche Lake , the largest lake in the park

Montreal is just a 2-hour drive from Ottawa . It’s the largest city near Ottawa.

Best things to see and do in Montreal

• Take a walk on the Plateau Mont-Royal to admire its traditional houses
• Climb up to Mount Royal Park and the lookout
• Visit the historic district of Old Montreal
• Stroll along the docks of the Old Port .

Find all the details for visiting Montreal in my dedicated article. You’ll find it here: Best things to do in Montreal !

Just 1h45 drive from Ottawa , you can reach Mont-Tremblant , regarded as one of the best ski resorts in Quebec .

If you’re traveling to Canada in winter , I’d highly recommend taking advantage of your visit to Mont-Tremblant to go on a snowmobile hike , a signature Canadian activity.

If that sounds good, you’ll find all the details here !

It’s also famous for being one of the most beautiful places in Canada to admire fall colors .

Lastly, in summer you’ll be able to enjoy watersports on the lake or go hiking in the forest.<a0><i1/></a0> The Canadian autumn in Mont-Tremblant

If you’ve decided to spend a few days in Ottawa , you can also add more activities to your itinerary .

Don’t hesitate to click on the orange links to access the details and make your reservations:

• White water rafting on the Outaouais River
• Snowshoeing in an ice maze in the village of Wakefield, 30 minutes from Ottawa
• Ice skating in the same ice maze
• Stand up paddleboarding excursion in a water maze (at Wakefield)
• Canoeing excursion (still in the water maze)
• Via Ferrata in the Coulonge Falls Park, near Ottawa
• Treetop course , also in the Coulonge Falls Park
• Giant ziplines , still in the same park (possible to combine the treetop course and the giant ziplines in the same itinerary).

A small town that’s easily walkable, you’ll be able to discover Ottawa’s main points of interest in just 1 day .

But if you want to visit a bunch of museums , it could quickly eat up your time. In that case, I’d recommend planning for 2 days .

If you also want to explore Ottawa’s surroundings like Gatineau Park or add more activities , you might want to spend 3 days in Ottawa .

For a day in Ottawa , here’s my itinerary:

• Guided tour of Parliament Hill
• Walk or cruise along the Rideau Canal
• Lunch break in ByWard Market district
• Afternoon at the Canadian Museum of History

In 2 days in Ottawa , I suggest following the first day’s itinerary and adding:

• A morning discovering the city’s fascinating museums . You’re sure to find your happy place among the vast cultural offerings.
• Lunch break
• A leisurely stroll through the city’s parks and along Dow’s Lake
• A thrilling guided tour in search of Ottawa’s ghosts!

And if you’re in the mood to connect with nature, follow the day 3 program and take a trip to Gatineau Park !

If you’ve covered the city in the first 2 days and have another day in Ottawa , I recommend using it to head to Gatineau Park .

You’ll be able to go hiking in the great outdoors and enjoy the stunning Canadian landscapes .

For a bit more adrenaline, you could also choose to engage in one or more activities: zip-lining, rafting, snowshoeing…

While Ottawa may be the capital of Canada, it’s still a small city.

So, the selection of accommodations is somewhat limited. You should book a room from my selection in advance and not to dally too long.

• HI Ottawa Jail Hostel : This youth hostel is housed in a restored old jail. You’ll be sleeping in upgraded cells (I assure you!) Dorm bed from €30, breakfast included. Strong points: the uniqueness of the place, excellent location, and delicious breakfast. A great affordable choice for lodging in Ottawa !
• The Business Inn : Hotel located 1.3km from Parliament Hill. Well-equipped studio with a kitchen starting from €100 per night, breakfast included. Strong points: prime location, spacious rooms, an in-room computer with printer, and the ability to cook for yourself. My absolute favorite for its unbeatable value for money in Ottawa!
• Andaz Ottawa Byward Market-a concept by Hyatt : Located in the Byward Market neighborhood. Double room with modern and sleek decor from €190 per night, breakfast included. Strong points: great location, friendly staff, rooftop terrace, and an extensive and varied breakfast buffet.
• Fairmont Château Laurier : 5-star hotel (the only one in Ottawa) located a 10-minute walk from Parliament Hill. Spacious and comfortable double room from €365 per night, breakfast included. Strong points: high-quality services, room comfort, indoor swimming pool, attentive and helpful staff. The best hotel in Ottawa for a luxury stay !

• Play Food and Wine : Located in the By Market. This restaurant serves dishes made from fresh, quality products sourced from local farmers. A selection of wines is offered to pair with each dish. You can order an array of delectable dishes to share with your companions! Reservation recommended.
• La Bottega : Located in the Byward Market neighborhood on George Street. This quaint restaurant is situated inside a grocery store that sells Italian goods. You can taste homemade, typical dishes or create your own sandwich from excellent Italian cold cuts and cheeses. The prices are quite reasonable. Perfect for a lunchtime meal.
• Bâton Rouge : Located on Albert Street, about a 10-minute walk from Parliament Hill. This restaurant is a steakhouse, so I highly recommend it for beef rib, ribs, and hamburger enthusiasts. The quality of the meat is excellent, and the dishes are very generous. Don’t forget to save room for cheesecake for dessert!

Ottawa is situated between Montreal and Toronto , making it easily accessible from these two major cities. From Montreal :

• By car : 2-hour and 10-minute ride
• By bus : 2h30
• By train : 1h50

From Toronto:

• By car : 4h30
• By bus : 5h30
• By train : 4h

Ottawa also has an international airport , but it’s not directly serviced from France. Direct flights are available from London , for example.

I thoroughly enjoyed exploring Ottawa because it’s a city on a human scale where you can easily stroll around on foot and see everything!

The visit to the Canadian Museum of History greatly contributed to making Ottawa a must-see on a road trip in Canada . If there’s one single spot not to miss on the list of things to see in Ottawa, it’s definitely this one!

To help you visualize the city a bit better, I’ve created a tourist map of Ottawa, with all the best things to do and must-see attractions.

You can display the map’s legend by clicking the button with a small arrow located in the top left corner.

Discover all my articles about Canada : All my articles to help you plan your trip to Canada are listed there.

• 20 Best Things to do in Canada
• 20 Best Things to do in Quebec – All best places to visit in the French-speaking province!
• Itinerary: One week in Canada: The perfect itinerary to visit Canada in 6, 7 or 8 days!
• Itinerary: 10 days in Canada: All my best tips for organizing your 10-day trip to Canada
• Itinerary: 2 weeks in Canada: How to visit Western Canada in 15 days.
• Itinerary: 3 weeks in Canada: My epic itinerary to visit Western and Eastern Canada in 21 days
• Itinerary: 1 month in Canada: How to visit Eastern Canada in a month!
• Itinerary: One week in Quebec: How to visit Quebec in 6, 7 or 8 days, with all my best tips!
• Itinerary: 10 days in Quebec: An amazing 10-day itinerary in Quebec
• Itinerary: 2 weeks in Quebec: All my best tips to visit Quebec in 14, 15 or 16 days
• Itinerary: 3 weeks in Quebec: the perfect 3-week road trip in Quebec !
• Road trip in Canada: The best itineraries for 7, 10, 15, 21 days and 1 month
• Road trip in Quebec: The best itineraries for 7, 10, 15 and 21 days
• Calgary : Top 11 things to do during your visit
• Montreal : 33 best things to see and do
• Ottawa : 15 epic places to visit
• Quebec City : Top 17 things to do and see
• Toronto : The 17 things to do during your stay
• Vancouver : Top 25 places to visit and activities
• Toronto in 3 days – The perfect itinerary to visit the city in 72 hours!

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Creator of the Voyage Tips blog, travel and photography lover. I give you all my best tips to plan your next trip.

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12 Best Things to do in Ottawa, Ontario

By Alex Schultz · Last updated on May 4, 2024

Once a humble lumber town, Ottawa was controversially chosen by Queen Victoria to be the capital of Canada all the way back in 1857. Since then, it has grown into the country’s fourth-largest city, and it now has countless world-class museums, tourist attractions and fascinating National Historic Sites to check out.

Set at the spot where the Ottawa, Rideau, and Gatineau rivers meet, it lies in the southeast of Canada on the border with Quebec. Things to do in Ottawa include visiting important institutions such as the Canadian Parliament and Supreme Court, as well as exploring the city’s beautiful buildings and attractive architecture.

In addition, plenty of parks and green spaces dot the city while the remarkable Rideau Canal which runs through the heart of the capital offers up some great outdoor activities and sightseeing cruises.

12. Supreme Court of Canada

Perched atop of a high bluff overlooking the Ottawa River is the Supreme Court of Canada which lies right next to the city center. The highest court in the country, it was built between 1939 and 1945 with Queen Elizabeth herself actually having laid the first cornerstone.

Thanks to its outstanding Art Deco architecture and close proximity to Parliament Hill, the court is very popular to visit with tours taking you all around its interior. While the Grand Entrance Hall is certainly its standout sight, it is also interesting to see the courts where trials take place and hear the history of the building. Outside you can find some superb statues of Canadian Greats and snap great photos of the court and its chateau-esque roof.

11. Rideau Hall

The official residence of both the Canadian monarch and Governor General of Canada, the stately Rideau Hall can be found just ten minutes’ drive to the north of downtown. In total, the massive mansion has 175 rooms to explore with the fancy residence, and its grounds are open to the public for tours throughout the year.

Built back in the 1830s with later governors adding ever grander elements, it exhibits some lovely Regency-style architecture with enormous wings lying to either side of its main facade.

Inside, the humongous Rideau Hall is sumptuously decorated with fine furnishings and period pieces dotting its ballrooms, state rooms and private apartments. Besides learning about the National Historic Site, visitors can enjoy strolling around its gardens which contain lots of uniquely Canadian landscapes.

10. National War Memorial

The focal point of the capital’s Confederation Square, the National War Memorial lies just a short distance from Parliament Hill and many of the city’s other main sights. Originally erected in 1939 to commemorate the Canadians who died during World War I, the moving memorial has since been rededicated to all Canadians killed in all conflicts both past and future.

Towering to 21 meters in height, the granite arch is adorned with striking sculptures that represent various branches of the Canadian forces. These bronze figures can be seen emerging from the arch, allegorically passing from war to peace and liberty. Lying at its foot is the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and ceremonial sentries who perform the Changing of the Guard each hour.

9. Royal Canadian Mint

Just a short stroll to the north of the National War Memorial is the Royal Canadian Mint which, until 1969, manufactured much of the country’s coinage. Nowadays, however, the National Historic Site only produces hand-crafted collector and commemorative coins as well as medals, medallions and gold bullion bars and coins.

The headquarters of the Royal Canadian Mint now occupy an historic Tudor-Gothic style building that looks very much like a castle as two turrets line its entrance. Visitors can take tours around the facility to see how the coins are designed and produced, learn about the mint’s history and even hold a solid gold bar. In addition, there is also a shop where you can buy gifts and souvenirs of your visit.

8. Ottawa Locks

While 47 in total can be found dotted along the Rideau Canal, it is the steep set of almost step-like locks at its northern end that attract the most attention. Known as the Ottawa Locks, they can be spied in between Chateau Laurier and Parliament Hill with the flight of eight locks making for some fabulous photos.

Completed in 1831, the small series of locks really are an astonishing engineering achievement as they connect the Rideau Canal to the Ottawa River 24 meters below. Despite lying in the heart of town, the Ottawa Locks are set in a serene spot amidst leafy parks, hills and historic buildings. As such, many people enjoy walks here and take photos of boats rising up and down the lock system.

7. Notre Dame Basilica

Both the oldest and largest church in Ottawa, Notre Dame Basilica was built in 1841 and boasts two towering twin spires which can be seen from both the city center and Parliament Hill not far away. While its neoclassical exterior looks quite austere, its inside is a feast for the eyes with elaborate carvings and magnificent stained-glass windows wherever you look.

Now preserved as a National Historic Site, the cathedral’s exquisite interior is home to hundreds of sculptures of religious figures with the carvings in its choir being particularly impressive. Besides this, it also has a huge pipe organ on show while glittering stars dot its colorful ceiling. During the summer, visitors can take tours of the basilica and learn about its fine features and interesting past.

6. Canada Aviation and Space Museum

Lying just fifteen minutes’ drive to the northeast of the city center is the Canada Aviation and Space Museum which is home to a huge collection of artifacts and aircraft. Through its extensive exhibits you can learn all about the history and evolution of aviation in Canada and the country’s significant achievements in space.

Established in 1964 on Rockcliffe Airport, a former military base, the museum’s humongous hangar houses over 130 civilian and military aircraft. Besides seaplanes and the Space Shuttle Endeavour’s Canadarm, it also has lots of vintage bushplanes from the 1920s to ‘40s on show. Besides exploring the museum’s interactive exhibits, visitors can try out its flight simulator or even book a sightseeing flight over Ottawa in the summer.

5. Canadian Museum of Nature

Boasting one of the best natural history collections in the world is the Canadian Museum of Nature which remarkably houses more than fifteen million specimens. Set just a short stroll to the south of the center, its interesting artifacts and exhibits explore over four billion years of the Earth’s history.

Originally founded in 1856 in Montreal, the massive museum now occupies a fine Tudor-Gothic Revival-style building which itself is a National Historic Site. Inside you can find everything from dioramas and displays on mammals and minerals to dinosaur fossils and the full skeleton of a huge blue whale. In addition to all its galleries on geology and exhibitions on Canada’s landscapes and wildlife, the museum also showcases some artwork and films relating to natural history.

4. Canadian War Museum

Set not far from downtown on the banks of the Ottawa River is the Canadian War Museum which serves as both a museum and memorial to the country’s military past. Inside its strikingly modern building are lots of excellent exhibits to explore which shine a light on Canada’s contributions to World War I and II and many other battles beside.

Opened in 1942, its collection of over three million items includes everything from uniforms and weapons to tanks, planes and even a replica of a WWI trench. Accompanying them are informative displays, photos and short clips of film. The museum also has a moving Memorial Hall for visitors to stop by and a Regeneration Hall which fittingly looks out over Peace Tower.

3. National Gallery of Canada

One of the largest art museums in North America, the National Gallery of Canada can be found on the banks of the Ottawa River overlooking Parliament Hill. While its captivating collection is a treat to peruse, the gorgeous glass building in which it is housed already makes for a spellbinding sight as it is designed to look like a cathedral.

Inside, the architectural marvel is just as impressive as its galleries are packed with fabulous photos, paintings and sculptures by Canadian and international artists. Alongside renowned names such as da Vinci, Michelangelo and Picasso you can also find exquisite artworks by the indigenous peoples of Canada. One of its most famous works is the striking spider sculpture Maman which lies just in front of its entrance.

2. Rideau Canal

Running right through the center of the city is the remarkable Rideau Canal which connects Ottawa to Lake Ontario some 200 kilometers away. One of the capital’s standout sights, it is lined by pretty paths to walk, run or cycle along with sightseeing cruises in the summer and ice skating in the winter when the water freezes being particularly popular.

Now primarily used for pleasure boating, the charming canal was actually built between 1826 and 1832 to secure supply and communications routes in the case of war with the United States. The National Historic Site has lots of picturesque parks, lakes and towns for people to stop off at along the way as well as the spectacular Ottawa Locks to check out in town.

1. Parliament Hill

The city’s main attraction for most visitors, the phenomenal Parliament Hill can be found right in the heart of downtown, overlooking the Ottawa River. Perched atop of a rocky outcrop, its complex of gorgeous Gothic Revival style buildings is home to the Parliament of Canada which is the seat of the country’s government.

Built between 1859 and 1927, the Parliament Buildings exhibit some astounding architecture with the prominent Peace Tower rising up high above its Center Block. Besides basking in breath-taking views of the capital from its observation deck, you can also take tours of the House of Commons and its grounds which are dotted with statues and memorials. Many people also enjoy watching its Changing of the Guard ceremony which takes places daily in the summer.

Best Time to Visit Ottawa

Lying along the Ottawa River with the park-lined Rideau Canal running through it, Canada’s capital sees the most visitors during its sunny summer months. Most people stay away once its long, cold, snowy winters set in.

June to August is its absolute peak season when average temperatures are at their highest, ranging from 23 to 26°C (73 to 79°F). The warm, sunny days are great for exploring its center or ambling along by the canal. While prices are more expensive, there are fun jazz, blues and Fringe theater festivals to enjoy. Parades also take place for Pride and Canada Day.

September and October are also very popular as the colors of the trees look incredible and the crowds and prices have decreased a bit. While cooler, averages of 13 to 20°C (55 to 68°F) are still fine for sightseeing and strolling about its parks.

After this, Ottawa sees relatively few visitors as temperatures drop to -6 to -4°C (21 to 25°F) in winter. All the Christmas decorations do look magical though and you can also skate along the canals or enjoy its Winterlude Festival.

With the weather warming up and flowers blooming, May is also lovely and has the Victoria Day celebrations and Canadian Tulip Festival to take part in.

Map of Things to do in Ottawa

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How To Spend One Day In Ottawa: An Itinerary For First-Time Visitors

Links in this article may earn us a little money if you book/ order stuff. More here

Got One Day in Ottawa? Here’s What To Do, See, Eat, and Drink!

Interested in exploring Ottawa but a little short on time? Whether you’re visiting Ottawa on a day trip from Kingston , have a stopover flight, or are spending a day and a night in the city passing through, we’ve got you covered!

We really like Ottawa and – having explored the city many times now – we have a pretty good idea of what a first-time visitor might be looking for if they are exploring Ottawa in a day.

There are top attractions like ByWard Market and Parliament Hill, plenty of activities and museums to visit, lesser-known places to eat and drink, and much more.

So, here’s our version of an Ottawa day itinerary (for both the summer and winter seasons)!

Oh, and if you are staying one night, check out the ByWard Blue Inn or The Business Inn . Both are very popular accommodations in good, central areas.

Ottawa Tour Options

Being the capital of Canada, Ottawa is a popular destination to explore. Luckily, there are several tour options to help you discover Ottawa in different ways!

• Ottawa Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour
• 2-Hour Express Sights Bike Tour
• Ottawa Brewery Tour (via Bus)
• Ultimate Ottawa Sightseeing Tour (w/ Canal Cruise)

Table of Contents

Breakfast at Wilf and Ada’s

Address: 510 Bank St, Ottawa, ON K2P 1Z4, Canada

Alright – so it’s breakfast time in Ottawa. You’re going to need a  big  breakfast to fuel up for this day. 

We got up from our accommodation in Centretown, did a quick Google search, and walked right to Wilf and Ada’s . We are very, very glad we did!

This tiny diner near Highway 417 is on Bank Street, so it’s really easy to get to from downtown.

Inside, we found a small diner that was already packed (it was like 9 am on a weekday!). Luckily, we were only two people, so we got seated at what was the last table. 

The menu is really good – with brunch classics that are sweet and savoury to meet all tastes. Eric had a Classic Breakfast with eggs, bacon, sausage, beans (and more) while Lisa had an Eggs Benedict Florentine.

She HIGHLY recommends hers if you go because she really liked it. The server was also super nice, so that’s always a plus!

In any case, head there for breakfast – coffee was a free refill and the food was delicious!

Getting Around Ottawa The city of Ottawa is pretty spread out, but the best attractions are basically all within walking distance close to downtown (a few exceptions apply). Also, the city is relatively flat – with hillier areas if you walk down towards the Ottawa River from Wellington Street or if you walk down to ByWard Market from Parliament Hill.  You can check out the  Ottawa Transport (OC Transpo) website  for city buses and look into different rates. They have a day ticket available if you want to rely on the bus. Cycling is also an option – bike rentals are available and popular in the warmer months. We wouldn’t recommend using a car to get around Downtown as parking and re-parking would be a hassle.

Morning Activities: Explore Canadian History, Culture, and Art

Okay, so once you are done with breakfast, it’s time to head back downtown along Bank Street. Basically, walk as far as you can and you’ll hit Parliament Hill.

This is where we started the morning – and we basically checked out the following attractions/hot spots downtown or close to downtown. Read below for the things that we got up to – all before lunchtime!

Parliament Hill

Address: 111 Wellington St, Ottawa, ON K1A 0A4

Of course we visited Parliament Hill first thing so that we had enough time. As the centre of Canadian politics, the whole area is full of history and things to see.

We actually visited right after Canada Day, so they were just disassembling the stage from the concerts and celebrations.

In any case, there is a lot to see on Parliament Hill such as the Centennial Flame and many statues.

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We also walked behind the Centre Block along a pathway that gives you great views of the Ottawa River and other attractions below.

Even though renovations were happening all around, that path was still open to freely enjoy so be sure to do so.

You get great shots of the Library of Parliament – the historic circular structure at the rear of the Centre Block. It’s stunning to look at!

The buildings on Parliament Hill are the Centre Block with the clock tower called the “Peace Tower” and then the East and West Blocks flanking the middle building.

You can tour the buildings – but they are currently under extensive renovations for many years so the tours are all moved around. 

If you want to learn more about Canadian politics and history, you can check out the updated tour schedule here . Tours of the Senate and House of Commons are free but must be reserved in advance.

National War Memorial

Address: Wellington St, Ottawa, ON K1P 5A4, Canada

We walked down from Parliament Hill down Wellington Street towards the top of Elgin Street.

Here you’ll find the famous Locks of the Rideau Canal. We only took a quick photo of them because we explored them later in the day but you could check them out now.

Instead, we headed to the square across from the Locks to the large monument that you cannot miss.

This is the National War Memorial – a tribute to those Canadians who have served in armed conflicts. It also includes the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.

It’s interesting to look at and a quiet, respectful place – we even caught it at a time when the guards were changing their posts.

To the south of the memorial, you can find Confederation Park – a large green space by the Rideau Canal.

It was a nice place to relax because we were waiting for our tour which started in the area!

Lady Dive Amphibus Tour

Address: Lady Dive leaves from 44 Sparks St., Ottawa, ON K1A 0R7

The next thing we did was a guided tour – but not just any tour: the Lady Dive “Duck Boat” Tour !

Yes, we went on the tour that drives you around on land and then drives into the water and becomes a boat tour!

We actually bought our tickets online beforehand but they have a booth close to the pick-up/drop-off so it would be easy to just show up.

The tour itself was actually really fun – the live guide spoke in both English and French and pointed out many attractions.

If you’ve never been to Ottawa before, it’s a great tour for orientating yourself.

We then crossed into Quebec on the tour and drove into the Ottawa River – which was such a strange feeling but completely safe!

Exploring Ottawa from the water was a different perspective that you can’t get many other ways so we liked that, too. Kids on the tour got to take a photo with the captain which made for a fun atmosphere.

After a big loop, the boat left the water and became a bus again and we got to see places further out like Rideau Hall. Overall we’d recommend the Lady Dive Boat Tour for the experience.

We also decided to do a morning tour as it was not as hot yet. This ended up being a good decision.

If you want to explore the Ottawa River on a tour, but the Lady Dive doesn’t sound like something for you, you can also take a regular boat cruise with Capital Cruises .

This tour boat leaves from the bottom of the Locks down at the river level so it’s easy to get to/find from downtown.

We actually passed this boat while we were on our tour and it looked like a nice boat (see above).

Sparks Street

Location: 45°25’23.8″N 75°41’47.1″W

Once we got off the Lady Dive Tour, we were already getting hungry so we walked towards lunch through Sparks Street.

Sparks Street – fun fact – is considered the oldest pedestrian mall in Canada.

It crosses the whole downtown core from west to east (sort of) and is loaded with shops, stalls, restaurants, souvenirs, etc to check out.

Lisa bought postcards here to send to family – so wander through and see what you can find!

Lunch: The SconeWitch on Elgin

Address: 150 Elgin St, Ottawa, ON K2P 1L4, Canada

We only walked for about 10 minutes max from where we got off the tour before we got to lunch. Remember, everything in the downtown core is pretty close together.

Lunch was at another place we looked up online that had great reviews: The SconeWitch on Elgin.

Known for making their own scones and other fresh items, we went on an Ottawa workday just after 12:00 pm. It was BUSY – but the line moved surprisingly fast!

As for food, SconeWitch was awesome. We got one “SconeWitch”- it was with goat cheese and was really, really good.

We also got an iced coffee and a hibiscus iced tea – both of which were also great. We’d recommend checking it out for a lighter lunch that still fills you up.

Afternoon Activities: Explore Gatineau/The ByWard Market Area

Alright, so now it’s the afternoon – what do you get up to now? It was a hot summer day when we visited, so we decided to stay in the shade as much as possible and/or explore the water.

Since we had already seen the Parliament Hill area, we decided that the afternoon should be dedicated to the ByWard Market area and perhaps maybe some museums across/near the Ottawa River.

Here’s a handful of things we checked out and stuff that you might also be interested in adding to your one-day itinerary!

Rideau Canal/Bytown Museum

Address: 1 Canal Ln, Ottawa, ON K1P 5P6, Canada

One of the most famous sites in all of Ottawa (and Canada for that matter) is the Rideau Canal.

The Rideau Canal – and the Ottawa Lockstation (shown above) – are Ontario’s only UNESCO Heritage Site for the category of “Culture”.

The whole waterway is over 200 km long and stretches all the way to Lake Ontario in Kingston!

In Ottawa, stretches of the waterway are great for boating in the summer and it turns into the famous ice skating rink in the wintertime .

Close to the Ottawa River entrance to the Locks, you’ll find the  Bytown Museum , which takes visitors through the history of Ottawa as it developed over the decades!

If you want to cross the river and head to the Canadian Museum of History in Hull/Gatineau, you could do so at this point.

To get there, you can walk across the bridges – but if you are already at the Locks, you might want to take the water taxi to Gatineau.

Tickets are cheap and it’s an eco-friendly way to get across (it has an electric motor)! You can check schedules and prices on their website .

If you don’t want to head for the Museum of History, then you can just walk to the National Gallery of Canada (see both below) on the same side of the river as you are now. You’ll still have more than enough to keep you busy.

Canadian Museum of History

Address: 100 Laurier St, Gatineau, QC K1A 0M8, Canada

Across the river from the Locks and Parliament Hill, you’ll find one of the most famous museums in all of Canada – the Canadian Museum of History.

This museum is huge, features a massive Grand Hall with incredible works by Indigenous Peoples, and walks visitors through over 20,000 years of Canadian human history!

We didn’t get a chance to visit on this trip but Eric went years ago and we want to go back next time. If you want to visit, you can  get your Museum of History ticket here . 

National Gallery of Canada

Address: 380 Sussex Dr, Ottawa, ON K1N 9N4, Canada

If you don’t want to cross the river, you can also check out the National Gallery of Canada.

Known for the beautiful glass structures and the very large spider out front, you can see loads of Canadian art inside!

The Gallery has an inner courtyard and a cafe onsite. If you want to visit, make sure you have a few hours to spare!

It’s also a great place to visit if it’s too hot out or too cold in the winter! Here is the  official website to learn more .

ByWard Market

Address: 55 Byward Market Square, Ottawa, ON K1N 9C3

After you finish up at the Gallery, a final area that you have to explore in Ottawa (if you are only around for a day) is ByWard Market.

If you are staying late, you can have dinner here and even go out for drinks here, so don’t worry if you don’t visit during the day. 

That said, ByWard Market is full of things to do, see, eat, and drink at all hours of the day!

The market area is packed with bars, restaurants, and shops that surround the original Market Building – which has a few food places and shops itself.

In the summer, stalls fill some streets and sell everything from fresh produce to flowers.

We wandered around and ended up stopping for a drink at one of the many bars in the area  (El Furniture Warehouse). You could have a sweet treat and opt for a “BeaverTail” which is deep-fried dough covered in sugar and more!

In any case, you can just hang out in ByWard for a little bit and take in the sights and sounds, do some window shopping, eat something, and even have a beverage. Up to you!

Afternoon Break: High Tea at The Chateau Laurier

Address: 1 Rideau St, Ottawa, ON K1N 8S7, Canada

Now that you’re done with the main part of your afternoon wander, you might need a break.

You can stay in ByWard Market for longer and have a beer or a sweet treat – or you can have a truly Ottawa experience: Afternoon Tea at the Chateau Laurier! (If high tea is not for you, then skip to the next section.)

This historic hotel is an Ottawa landmark and a very popular place to stay , too. That said, it’s also known for its food/dining experiences – and Zoe’s Lounge is where you head for a lovely high tea experience. Tea, sweets, mini sandwiches – what’s not to like?!

It’s important to book a table online in advance – especially for afternoon tea since it can fill up. You can learn more about tea and reservations at Zoe’s Lounge here .

Early Evening Activity: Explore Major Hill’s Park

Address: 1223 Alexandra Bridge, Ottawa, ON K1N 9N4, Canada

Once you’re done at Afternoon tea (or in ByWard Market), there’s one more place you should visit because of the amazing views: Major’s Hill Park.

You could even have a drink at Tavern on the Hill which is located here.

Our local buddy said that we had to stop by and we are very glad we did. The park was a great way to rest for a bit before walking over to where we were having dinner. 

We went to the park at the end of our day but didn’t have a drink since we had just had a beer in ByWard.

In any case, you come here for the views over the river and the setting sun (depending on the time of year).

You COULD also just have dinner here if you wanted to. Check out the website for  hours and menus for Tavern on the Hill here .

Dinner at the Aulde Dubliner & Pour House

Address: 62 William St, Ottawa, ON K1N 7A3, Canada

Now it’s dinner time – and you must be pretty hungry given that you’ve covered quite a bit of ground today!

For dinner, we headed back into ByWard (wasn’t far from the last stop) and went to the Aulde Dubliner & Pour House.

This classic Irish pub is huge and beautiful from the outside. We got a patio table overlooking the main part of ByWard Market which was so nice.

The server was super friendly, the beer/drinks were local so that was nice to try, and our food (burgers and salmon grilled sandwich) were all really good.

If you aren’t in the mood for pub-style food, there are lots of other restaurants in the area. That said, the menu did have other non-pub food items! You can check the menu and hours for the Aulde here .

Evening: Drinks, Live Music or Evening Tour

Alright, so it’s the evening now and if you are still in Ottawa looking to round out the day, you’ve got options!

For this post, we wanted to provide you with a handful of options to match all interest levels.

So, at the end of the day in Ottawa, you just have to stay in the ByWard Market area for the famed Ottawa nightlife. However, you’ve got options for what you want to do: a night tour, live music, or rooftop terrace drinks.

Ottawa Night Tour

If you have a bit of explorer energy left, you might consider hopping on an Ottawa tour by night .

This tour starts at 6:30 pm so be sure to have dinner before but then you have the rest of your evening planned with a cruise, a light show, and more!

Live Music at Heart & Crown

Address: 67 Clarence St, Ottawa

If live music is your thing, head into the heart of ByWard where there’s music (pretty much) every night!

The Heart and Crown is a very lively Irish pub with loads of seating and a great atmosphere – whatever the night of the week.

Eric has been there for drinks and music and it was super fun. You can check out who is playing on their website . They have live music every single night from 10 until close basically. 

Rooftop Terrace Drinks at the Andaz

Address: 325 Dalhousie St, Ottawa, ON K1N 7G1, Canada

Finally, if you just want to sit, relax, and have a nice drink with a stunning view, then you should head to the top of the Andaz Hotel.

Here, you’ll find the famous terrace bar called Copper Spirits and Sights. Known for the views overlooking Ottawa towards Parliament Hill, a great cocktail menu, and the occasional live DJ, the Andaz is definitely a place to be in the evening.

You can book a table and learn more on their website .

Related Articles

We love exploring Ottawa – so check out our other Ottawa posts to help you plan:

• Great Things to Do in Ottawa (for All Seasons)
• Where to Stay in Ottawa – Hotels and Best Areas
• Toronto to Ottawa: All Ways
• 13 Ottawa Pubs and Bars (As Told by a Local)
• Day Trips from Ottawa (+ Directions)

And there you have it, our sample itinerary for one day in Ottawa. In the end, it’s impossible to see everything in Ottawa in one day – but you can definitely plan your visit to see lots of great attractions.

This itinerary covers lots of the things that we did during our time in Ottawa and we had a blast. Let us know what you get up to – we’d love to add great activities to this Ottawa itinerary!

As always, Keep Exploring, eh? – E&L

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Eric Wychopen

Hi, we're Eric and Lisa - an Ontario-born Canadian and a German! After settling in Ontario together, we realized that there is lots more to explore in this beautiful Canadian province! On Ontario Away, we as well as local contributors cover everything from cities and hikes to wineries, attractions, accommodations, and more.

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Places to Visit in Ottawa this Autumn

Written By: The Planet D

Updated On: February 19, 2024

Ottawa is one of the best places in Canada to see the fall colours. Exploring Ottawa in autumn is a special time to visit the nation’s capital as there are plenty of places to visit in Ottawa that are specific to the changing of the season.

Ottawa is our favourite city in Ontario (yes, even before our hometown of Toronto , and we have had the pleasure of exploring it during every season. But there is something very special about taking a road trip to Ottawa in the fall. These are the top things to do and places to visit in Ottawa (and around the area) before the snow sets in.

Table of Contents

Best Places to Visit in Ottawa in the Fall

Note: Some activities may be affected by covid-19. Check with each attraction for opening hours and activities. Things are constantly changing as Ontario moves into different stages of Covid so be sure to check before you go.

1. Take an e-Bike Tour with Escape Bicycle Tours

Make your way to Spark’s Street o Escape Bicycle Tours for the best bike tour you’ll ever have with Escape Bicycle Tours . It is the perfect way to see the highlights of Ottawa in a safe and relaxed environment. We took my family along for a ride and they were nervous about cycling on the road in city traffic, but once we got started they relaxed. Ottawa has fantastic cycling trails and the tour keeps you off the busy roads.

This two-hour tour takes you from downtown Ottawa to Gatineau in Quebec and out to Sussex Drive including the grounds of Rideau Hall. With e-bikes, you can pedal in comfort as it helps propel up hills. Get the iconic photo of the parliament buildings from the Canadian Museum of History and let your expert guide tell you of the history of Gatineau and Ottawa. After you are done, enjoy a coffee or beer at their outdoor cafe. This is fast becoming one of the best things to do in Ottawa! Book your bicycle tour here

2. Take a Helicopter Tour – Fall Colours from Above

Ottawa is surrounded by Canadian forests and beauty and the best way to see the fall colours in Ottawa is to get up in the air. We took a doors-off helicopter tour to photograph the nation’s capital during its most beautiful season.

Meeting our helicopter pilot at the Canadian Aviation and Space Museum  where we flew over the colourful forests of Gatineau and the Ottawa River. It is also an amazing way to see the Parliament Buildings and downtown Ottawa.

• See Heli Tremblant for details
• Watch our BiPlane Flight over Ottawa

3. Sleep with Wolves at Parc Omega

Parc Omega is one of the best places in Canada to see Canadian wildlife and the best thing you can do in the park is book a wolf lodge. We spent the night in a log cabin in the middle of the wolf sanctuary where a pack of wolves spent the night howling, running around, sleeping and playing in front of our private glass observation room.

Pack a bottle of wine, snacks and dinner if you like as there is a complete kitchen in this luxurious cabin. We had a private platform where we could walk outside to view the wolves and bears in their huge natural reserve. Check Availability at the Wolf Cabins in Parc Omega

4. Escape Manor

It was our first time taking part in an escape room and it was awesome. At first when we walked into our Asylum Escape Room, we didn’t know where to begin but once we settled in, we started working on the clues to unlock each puzzle. One thing we learned was to ask for help sooner than later.

We made a goal of asking for two clues but you can ask for as many as you like. It is so much fun and a real bonding experience when you overcome an obstacle together. The hosts were great at storytelling and after you finish up, make sure to have a cocktail in the eerie lounge. There are four different escape rooms at Escape Manor to test your escape artists’ skills. Book a room here.

5. Visit Mackenzie King’s Estate

I cannot tell you how many times we have visited Ottawa, and never made it to Mackenzie King’s Estate. William Lyon Mackenzie was the Prime Minister of Canada for a whopping 21 1/2 years! His estate is incredibly beautiful in the autumn with the fall colours of Gatineau Park surrounding his country cottage and incredible Abbey Ruins.

It felt like we were on a royal estate in Europe as opposed to a place in Ontario. Go early in the morning to beat the crowds. In autumn, the tour busses are in full swing in Gatineau Park and people flock to the trails and this estate to see the extraordinary fall colours.

6. Hide in a Bunker

One of the coolest attractions in Ottawa is the Diefenbunker. Named after Canada’s 13th Prime Minister, John Diefenbaker, the Diefenbunker was designed during the Cold War. It was a place where high ranking officials would lead from should a nuclear attack occur in the 1950s.

It sounds like a sweet deal to have access to shelter in case of nuclear fallout, but after touring this creepy underground bunker, I’d rather take my chances outside.

You had to have a certain temperament to be able to spend months underground. They even had a medical room to lock people up should they lose it while underground. Crazy! It’s a fascinating tour and one of the most unique things to do in Ottawa. Get more information on Canada’s Cold War Museum – The Deifenbunker

7. Take a Beer Tour

Ottawa has a thriving microbrew culture and a fun thing to do is to book a beer tour to check out the breweries around town. We booked the Brew Donkey Y-East End Express Tour who picked us up at the Bier Market downtown and whisked us off to four separate breweries. The tours are fantastic, funny and informative and you get to taste a lot of beer during the trip. Don’t worry, they supply eco-friendly water bottles and pretzels to keep you hydrated as you hop from brewpub to brewpub.

All while getting the chance to experience Ottawa’s local scene. Book your Brew Donkey Beer Tour here.

8. Flora Hall Brewing

If you aren’t up for a beer tour, check out a local brewery instead. Flora Hall Brewing is a local craft brewery set in an old garage. The inviting atmosphere is open-concept letting you people watch as you eat. The menu is very unique for a brew pub with choices like a Burrata salad, falafels, and beet hummus on the menu.

There’s a great mix for meat lovers and vegetarians alike. This is a great place to spend an evening sampling local beers and enjoying some evening cheer. You can check the menu and make reservations here

9. The Rideau Canal

The Rideau Canal is Ottawa’s premiere attraction cutting through the city. In the winter it is open for ice skating and in the summer it is perfect for SUP or taking a canal cruise. In the fall, we suggest hiring a city bike and cycling along the canal.

You can rent a bike and then take it from downtown to the Dows Lake Pavilion on this 6.5 kilometre leisurely route. (one-way). We took a Le Boat Tour up the Rideau Canal to watch the fall colours and it was incredible. We’ll be sharing that experience with you soon. Visit the Le Boat website for rental options and triops.

10. Haunted Walks

Ottawa is famous for its haunted walks and you can go on one year-round. The classic haunted walk will take you along the Rideau Canal, Byward Museum and other haunted places in Ottawa. Visit Haunted Walks for more tours.

Currently, Laurier House tours are closed due to COVID but it was definitely our favourite haunted tour in Ottawa. When we went to the Haunting at Laurier House and our entire group left the grounds screaming. It was the besthaunted walk I have ever been on. Laurier House was home to two of Canada’s Prime Ministers, Sir Wilfred Laurier, and William Lyon Mackenzie King.

Laurier died in the house in 1919 and King had a particular interest in the spirit world. He held seances there on a regular basis. We had no idea what to expect, but once we entered the mansion, no cameras or video was allowed, and let me just say, it made a believer out of me! Book your haunting (When it opens again) at Laurier House Now

11. Pumpkinferno

It’s Canada’s premier Halloween event. Pumpkinferno has takes place at Upper Canada Village each season. Located 30 minutes outside of Ottawa, Pumkinferno is an amazing light show of scenes created entirely from pumpkins. Young talented artists spend the entire summer carving intricate scenes from the moon landing to rock legends offering visitors a beautiful path to walk through.

I was blown away with Pumkinferno thinking it would only be interesting to kids, but adults will love this too. You can book dinner at Willards Hotel prior to opening giving you access to the historic grounds 2 hours before the doors open. Visit Upper Canada Village for more information on Pumpkinferno

12. Hike Pink Lake

The Pink Lake Hike in Gatineau is a beautiful hike on a boardwalk all around the lake offering beautiful views of the fall colours and reflections of the lake. It is a popular hike, so be sure to arrive early to beat the crowds.

13. Sunrise at Meech Lake

Meech Lake is one of the few places you can actually get to for sunrise in Gatineau Park. The gates are closed to the park until 8 am to help with over-tourism, but Meech Lake doesn’t need gate access. It is a beautiful scene as the mist comes off the water while the sun rises over the colourful scene.

14. Explore the ByWard Market

No trip to Ottawa would be complete without visiting the ByWard Market. This historic market is Ottawa’s number one tourist attraction and is one of Canada’s oldest markets. Established in 1826 by Lt-Col. John By the ByWard Market is a great place to pick up seasonal vegetables, grab a bite and pick up a Canadian souvenir like Maple Syrup.

15. C’est Bon Food tour

The Byward Market is also the meeting point for the C’est Bon Food tour that takes you around Ottawa’s downtown and market area to sample the best food and drinks in Ottawa. It’s an excellent way to have a more intimate tour of the ByWard Market and to explore more hidden gems in downtown Ottawa.

You’ll sample everything Canadian from maple butter, to maple tea, maple cupcakes, maple bacon donuts, and maple ribs! You’ll also get to sample locally run businesses like The Tea Store and Fatboys Southern SmokeHouse. Visit C’est Bon to book your own food tour

16. Explore Ottawa’s History at the ByTown Museum

The ByTown Museum is a little known museum in Ottawa located on the Rideau Canal across from the Fairmont Chateau Laurier. It only costs $2 to go in, and it traces the history of Ottawa known then as Bytown. Take a journey through time and be sure to walk to the back to check out the vault. It’s three-foot thick stone walls were used to keep the worker’s pay and gun powder secure! Planning a trip to Ottawa? Read our recommendations for the best museums to visit in Ottawa

17. Watch the Sun Set from the Andaz Hotel

I think we have this place on every article we write about Ottawa, but having a pre-dinner cocktail on the rooftop of the Andaz Hotel is awesome. It has the best view of Ottawa for sunset and the menu is filled with signature cocktails. Be sure to order the Charcuterie Board for your appetizer, it’s delicious.

18. Visit Canada’s Busiest Museum

The Canadian Museum of History is a fantastic museum in Ottawa to learn about the history of Canada. It’s not just boring facts though, there are plenty of interactive and beautiful displays. It also houses the largest collection of totem poles east of British Columbia . It truly is an incredible museum. I can’t believe it took us about a dozen trips to Ottawa to finally go inside. Read: 15 Awesome Ottawa Museums – What Not to Miss and Why

19. Relax at Nordik Spa Nature

After all these adventures in Ottawa, a great places to unwind and relax is at the Nordick Spa Nature. Located 20 minutes outside of the city, this is an amazing spa with plunge pools, saunas, steam rooms and massage.

You can spend the day relaxing in its infinity pool looking at the fall colours surrounding you in this forest escape. Be sure to pay extra for the Kalla Treatment, it’s worth every penny. Read more about Nordik Spa Nature here.

And these are our recommendations for the best places to visit in Ottawa in Autumn.

Government Tours

Currently, the Government buildings are closed to the public in Ottawa, but when things get back to normal, we should be able to enter again soon.

20. Tour of the House of Commons West Block – Closed

The House of Commons is closed for renovations for a few years, but that doesn’t mean you still can’t tour it. Parliament has opened up a temporary outdoor square that has been glassed in. I had been on a tour of the original house of commons and I found this to be a far more pleasant setting. They have moved everything meticulously over to its temporary home, but I wouldn’t be surprised if they stayed here!

• Be sure to arrive early for security checks. No large bags allowed

21. Tour the Senate – Closed

The old Ottawa train station has been closed for a decade and finally reopened to the Senate last year. It was our first time touring the senate and it is worth the visit just to see the historic train station from inside. By the time you tour parliament and the senate you’ll have a full understanding of the Canadian government while getting a glimpse at some of the country’s most historic architecture.

• Arrive at least 20 minutes early for security and no large bags allowed. See the website for details

Watch our video of the very best things to do in Ottawa

Read more about Ottawa Places to Visit at

• Ottawa Attractions – 20 Winter Activities to Embrace the Snow
• 33 Things to do in Ottawa – A Guide to Canada’s Capital City
• 15 Awesome Ottawa Museums – What Not to Miss and Why
• Nordik Spa Nature – A Guide to Ottawa’s Luxury Spa Escape

Where to Stay in Ottawa

Lord Elgin – Beautiful historic hotel located downtown. Walking distance to everything including  Rideau Canal, Confederation Park, and Parliament Hill.

Andaz  – Good location for Byward Market It’s walking distance to many restaurants and bars. Rooftop lounge overlooking the city. Gym, two restaurants

Fairmont Chateau Laurier  – Good for activities near the canal and Parliament buildings. Located next to the locks and near Parliament.  Our number one pick   – Pool, gym, three restaurants.

The Westin Ottawa  has a fantastic view of the city. It is located on the Rideau Canal and is connected to the Rideau Centre.

Check Out More Ottawa Travel Tips to Help with Planning

• Winterlude Itinerary – The Ultimate Guide to Ottawa
• 33 Things to do in Ottawa – A Complete Guide to the City
• Ottawa River Rafting
• Ice Sculptures at Night at Winterlude Ottawa

And You may Enjoy These Travel Tips

• 5 Winter Layering Tips to Dress for the Deep Freeze
• Canadian Food – Delicious Dishes and Drinks from Canada
• Funny Canadian Stereotypes Plus a Few That Are True
• The Great Canadian Word, Unique Phrases and Canadian Sayings

If you enjoyed all these places to visit in Ottawa, save this post to Pinterest for future travel planning.

Our trip to Ottawa is in partnership with Tourism Ottawa. All opinions are our own. Visit their  website for more information on travel to Ottawa .

Travel Planning Resources

Looking to book your next trip? Why not use these resources that are tried and tested by yours truly.

Flights: Start planning your trip by finding the best flight deals on Skyscanner

Book your Hotel: Find the best prices on hotels with these two providers. If you are located in Europe use Booking.com and if you are anywhere else use TripAdvisor

Find Apartment Rentals: You will find the cheapest prices on apartment rentals with VRBO . 

Travel Insurance: Don't leave home without it. Here is what we recommend:

• Allianz - Occasional Travelers.
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Need more help planning your trip? Make sure to check out our Resources Page where we highlight all the great companies that we trust when we are traveling.

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4 thoughts on “Places to Visit in Ottawa this Autumn”

First off, the photos look astoundingly surreal and out of this world! It’s like the sceneries were only captured to be viewed on a movie screen! The beautiful art of nature plus great photography equals these masterpieces! Thank you for sharing this beautiful place with us even though it’s only through virtual but you made us inspired and motivated to work our asses off to even just visit this place!

i want to see that sun set and i want to spend a day with wolves and visit the museum

i want to visit all these places at Ottawa what a lovely place

SLEEP WITH WOLVES i am love with this idea and I love to visit the Bytown museum

55 Fun & Unusual Things to Do in Ottawa, Canada

• 16 Pinterest

Located on the Ottawa River, just a stone’s throw from the U.S. border, Ottawa, Canada, has a charm that extends beyond its ornate Victorian buildings.

The country’s capital also features world-class museums, beautiful scenery, and a variety of unique neighborhoods to explore.

Whether you’re a history fan, a music buff, or just like to roam around and people-watch, you’ll find plenty of things to do in Ottawa .

1 – See world-class art at the National Gallery of Canada

For an equally comprehensive, but more artistically focused, look at the country’s culture, check out the National Gallery of Canada .

Established in 1988, the building features two extensive floors of exhibits covering the various movements that have shaped Canada’s artistic history.

You’ll be able to see European and American works from the Renaissance all the way to the present day, including pieces by such luminaries as Alejo Fernandez, Claude Monet, and Candice Breitz.

The gallery also features an impressive collection of works by Indigenous and Asian creators, and, of course, many Canadian artists.

The mediums that are showcased also run the gamut, from paintings and drawings to sculpture, photography, and mixed-media pieces.

With a constantly rotating catalog of exhibits, there’s no shortage of beautiful pieces to admire, so be sure to include the facility in your schedule.

2 – Explore the past at the Canadian Museum of History

After you’ve seen a bit of the present-day marvels in town, dive into the past at the Canadian Museum of History .

With four floors of beautifully designed galleries, interactive spaces, and rotating exhibitions, this beloved institution showcases the stories of the country from the earliest stages of human presence to the modern era.

Start on Level One, where you will be able to explore the fascinating cultures and stories of Canada’s Indigenous populations.

Then move on to the third and fourth levels to explore the Canadian History Hall, which showcases 15,000 years of history through artifacts and in-depth stories.

As you move through the galleries, you’ll be able to see the breadth and depth of Canadian culture, showcased by some truly incredible objects.

And be sure to spend some time in the Grand Hall, which features an impressive collection of totem poles from First Peoples cultures of the Pacific Coast.

The museum is a fantastic place to absorb the complex, ever-evolving story of the nation of Canada.

3 – Hop on (and hop off) a bus for sightseeing

Want to explore the city at your own pace, while still seeing all the best things to do in Ottawa?

Then book yourself a Hop-On, Hop-Off bus tour.

Bilingual guides will provide wonderful information about the capitol’s historic sites, museums, and buildings of interest.

If something catches your eye, you can get off the bus to explore further, then catch the next one when you’re ready.

On your trip, don’t miss Ottawa City Hall, which is famed for its blend of modern and 19th-century styles.

It’s also home to several renowned public art pieces, as well as Veterans’ Grove, which pays homage to those who served in the Korean War.

For a more unique adventure, try a trip on the Amphibus.

After seeing several attractions from the road, your vehicle will head to the river – and then into the river – for a scenic cruise to see the city in a whole different way.

By land or by water (or both), these tours are a great way to see the city up close.

• bus tours in Ottawa

4 – Visit Parliament Hill

Given Ottawa’s political significance, a trip to the capitol building itself is a must.

And fortunately, Parliament Hill offers a wonderful combination of breathtaking architecture and fascinating history, making it an ideal first stop during your visit.

The main Parliament building, which is home to the House of Commons (the Senate building is a block away), is chock full of fun artistic details, including decadent columns, wrought-iron flower designs on the railings, and small dragons carved into the stone facade outside

Add a soaring portico and beautifully designed rooms – including political chambers and a large library -, and you have an utterly stunning building.

In addition to striking visuals, the Parliament buildings offer a fascinating glimpse into the political workings of the country.

Guided tours cover the history of the complex and its many evolutions over the years, while also showing off the rooms where the nation’s business is conducted to this day.

You may even be able to sit in on a debate or a  committee meeting!

While you’re there, be sure to visit the Centennial Flame.

This simple, beautiful monument honors the 100th anniversary of the founding of the Canadian Confederation, which formed the modern-day country of Canada.

It consists of a fountain that, instead of water, boasts a small and steady gas-powered flame that runs all year round.

You can also include your visit as part of a larger city tour, which takes you to all of the major sights in town.

Other stops include the National War Memorial Monument, the Canadian Museum of History, and the National Gallery of Canada.

Take a half-day trip by bus, boat, or even amphibious vehicle!

It’s a great way to orient yourself to the city, while seeing all of the major attractions in a convenient and fun fashion.

• city tours in Ottawa

5 – Meet some flora and fauna at the Canadian Museum of Nature

Canada is famous for its natural splendor, and the incredible variety of wildlife that comes with it.

If you’d like to catch a glimpse of these places and creatures without leaving the city, be sure to stop by the Canadian Museum of Nature .

This splendid institution celebrates the country’s unique ecosystems from prehistoric times to the present day.

See Ice Age fossils and models of dinosaurs that once roamed the land, then visit gllaeries showcasing some of Canada’s more modern biospheres, including the beautiful and mysterious Arctic.

You’ll also be able to see taxidermied animals from around the country, from the mighty bison and the impressive grizzly bear to the elegant heron and the iconic Canada Goose.

Then get up close with some live specimens in the Bugs Alive Exhibit – including tarantulas, beetles, and leafcutter ants – and at the Pacific Discovery Tank, where you can interact with anemones, sea stars, and more.

With a wide array of species showcased and some fantastic interactive components, this is one of the best things to do in Ottawa for environment enthusiasts and nature novices alike.

6 – Cruise along the Rideau Canal

While there are plenty of things to do in Ottawa itself, the nearby countryside also offers plenty of charms for visitors.

And one of the most scenic spots is the area around the Rideau Canal.

The canal got its start in the early 1800s, when fears of a war with the U.S. inspired Canada to better connect its towns.

It was a major commercial hub until the advent of the railroad, when it then transitioned into a waterway for pleasure cruises.

Today, the canal offers a charming route for travelers hoping to see some of the historic buildings and idyllic scenery of the region.

Among the most notable attractions are the Ottawa Locks, a series of locking systems designed to control the flow of water through the system.

While they serve a functional purpose, the locks are also fascinating to observe in action.

Flanked by the Parliament buildings, the Bytown Museum, and several other iconic downtown attractions, their daily operations are part of the whole city-going experience.

You can also enjoy the other sights with a scenic cruise.

Your journey meanders around the downtown area, and offers spectacular views of some of the area’s great attractions, from historic architecture to arboretums and public parks.

You’ll also pass through Dow’s Lake, a tranquil stretch of water that features a lovely pavilion and various boat rental options.

These cruises are a great way to explore the area and learn about some engineering history as part of the bargain.

• boat tours in Ottawa

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7 – Pay your respects at the Canadian War Museum

Another excellent historical institution in the city, the Canadian War Museum offers a comprehensive and sobering look at the history of the country’s various conflicts over the centuries.

Explore galleries of striking artwork and immersive exhibitions that depict the different battles.

You can also see some of the weapons and machinery used in these conflicts, and read firsthand accounts from soldiers who served.

Perhaps the most powerful experience offered at the museum is the chance to speak with an actual veteran, offering a more intimate recounting of the realities of war.

These moving exhibits tell the story of war in a detailed, personalized way.

• Canadian War Museum tickets

8 – Take a bike for a spin

With its pleasant avenues and scenic districts, Ottawa is an ideal city for a bike tour.

There are a variety of routes available for those wanting a more traditional tourism experience, as well as people who would prefer a little more independence.

With a 2-hour or 3.5-hour tour, you can take in all the top spots in town, plus  some of the areas less accessible on foot.

Best of all, you’ll get the chance to cycle through two different provinces – Quebec and Ontario. Not bad for an afternoon!

There are also some specific pathways that are ideal for biking.

The Sir John A. MacDonald Parkway, which follows the river, offers spectacular views of various neighborhoods from Westboro Beach to Gatineau.

And for cyclists and pedestrians alike , try the Corktown Footbridge, which stretches over the Rideau Canal.

Keep an eye out for the padlocks along the railings, all left by couples in love; you can even add your own!

• bike tours in Ottawa

9 – Make a splash at Calypso Theme Waterpark

While Canada might be known for its freezing winters, it offers plenty of fun warm-weather activities as well.

And one of the best things to do in Ottawa for the whole family in the summer is taking a trip to Calypso Theme Waterpark .

The largest complex of its kind in the country, Calypso features something for every thrill level.

Take a ride on one of the 35 slides, from the gentle fun of Family Twisters to the heart-pounding curves of Aqualoops.

Float through the two lazy rivers, each boasting a fun tropical theme.

Or try your hand at some of the 100 aquatic games available on the grounds, including the obstacle courses of Jungle Challenge or the swashbuckling adventure of Pirate’s Aquaplay.

Throw in beach volleyball, a wave pool, and restaurants – not to mention the tallest waterslide tower in Canada -, and you have all the makings of a wonderful day in the water.

Don’t miss out on some splashy fun!

10 – Get curious at the Canada Science and Technology Museum

We all remember our amazing science classes in school, but it can be hard to indulge in that same curiosity as an adult.

Luckily, the Canada Science and Technology Museum is one of those places that can spark the same excitement and wonder as the baking-soda volcano days.

With 11 exhibitions spread out over a whopping 80,000 square feet of space, the museum offers plenty of interactive displays and fascinating experiments for visitors of all ages.

Check out the microscopes, telescopes, and multimedia presentations of Hidden Worlds, which explores how we explore the world around us.

Stop by Steam: A World In Motion to explore the history of trains and ships in Canada, and their role in helping to build the nation.

Or play with perception and tricks of the brain in the Crazy Kitchen, one of the oldest and most beloved exhibits in the museum.

You’ll also find plenty of fun in experimental labs, special events, and a variety of interactive spaces.

This is the place to go to learn and have fun all at the same time!

11 – Relax at the Jacques-Cartier Park

Located alongside the picturesque Ottawa River, Jacques-Cartier Park is a major gem in the city’s public infrastructure.

Since its construction in the 1930s, it has offered a variety of activities for locals and visitors to enjoy.

You can rent a bike, take a boat cruise, or visit the Gilmour and Hughson Limited Office and the Charron House, two fascinating historical buildings in the park.

Or just relax in the grass and take in spectacular views of Parliament Hill and the nearby river.

The park also frequently hosts large public events, such as celebrations for Canada Day, so check the calendar before you go to see what’s on at the park.

12 – Take to the skies at the Canada Aviation and Space Museum

For airplane lovers, wannabe astronauts,and flight enthusiasts of all kinds,  it’s well worth taking a trip to the Canada Aviation and Space Museum .

This expansive space celebrates the country’s auspicious aviation history.

Check out the Main Exhibition Hall showcasing the remarkable history of flight over the past century, then stop by the other galleries to see how the industry continues to evolve today.

Unsurprisingly, space is a big focus here, with exhibits touching on such topics as life on the International Space Station and how to stay healthy in orbit.

But the museum also explores slightly more down to earth topics, such as air traffic control and how engines work.

If you’d like to take your museum experience to the next level, book a ride in one of the classic aviation vehicles on-site.

Hop aboard a helicopter or a vintage biplane, and take a thrilling ride over some of the city’s iconic attractions, while learning all about your flight vehicle along the way.

It’s one of the most thrilling things to do in Ottawa!

13 – Visit the National War Memorial

If you’re seeking a good complement to the Canadian War Museum, be sure to stop by the National War Memorial.

This striking monument, which was originally created in 1939 to honor lives lost in World War I, now pays tribute to all Canadian Armed Forces personnel who have fought for the country.

It is best known for its impressive granite pedestal and matching arch, bracketed by statues of soldiers from both World Wars and an angel standing overhead

It’s a beautiful and moving monument to the sacrifices of Canadian soldiers.

14 – See where the money’s made at the Royal Canadian Mint

Are you daffy for dollars? A sucker for cents?

Then don’t miss a visit to the Royal Canadian Mint .

Located in a historic building, this branch of the mint produces medals, commemorative coins, and other similar objects.

You can see this fascinating production process up close with a facility tour.

Learn how the gold and silver for these pieces gets refined and reshaped, and catch a glimpse of some iconic pieces, such as the Million Dollar Coin, which was the largest coin ever made.

You’ll love money even more after watching how it’s made.

15 – Take to the Ottawa River by bus or raft

As its name implies, the Ottawa River is a central feature of the city.

And you can see its beauty up close – not to mention some great surrounding attractions – with an amphibious bus tour.

After driving around town, your vehicle will head into the water to continue the tour, cruising past iconic attractions and peaceful riverside spots.

Want something a little more thrilling?

Head a little further out of town to spend the day rafting .

Even though the rapids are only an hour from town, you’ll feel like you’re deep in the wilderness as you splash your way through the water.

With family-friendly, classic, and adventure options, and a steady combination of Class III and Class IV rapids, there’s something for everyone to enjoy on the river.

Enjoy your invigorating trip through the Canadian wilderness, but be warned – you will get wet!

• amphibious bus tours in Ottawa

16 – Admire the Notre Dame Cathedral Basilica

Another beautiful feature in the city’s landscape, a trip to the Notre Dame Cathedral Basilica is one of the best things to do in Ottawa for architecture fans.

Built in 1853, the cathedral has long served as a cornerstone of religious life for the community.

It’s known for its splendid interior, with large stained-glass windows and ornate wood carvings.

The cathedral also holds several precious relics, including golden chalices and historical religious garments.

And don’t miss the chance to see (and hear) the two resident organs, including the towering Casavant organ.

Its visual beauty is matched only by the wonderful sound of its music.

17 – Learn about your meals at the Canada Agriculture and Food Museum

Ever wonder where exactly the food on your plate comes from?

Or what all those fields in the middle of Canada actually grow?

At the Canada Agriculture and Food Museum , you’ll learn all of these things and more.

With interactive exhibits on everything from the function of soil to canola oil’s production process, the museum invites visitors to learn more about the amazing systems that make our crops grow.

Then head outside to get your hands dirty in the Soil Lab Garden, and visit with some of the resident barnyard animals.

This is one of the best things to do in Ottawa if you want to experience a little bit of farm life near the big city.

18 – See the tulips at the Major’s Hill Park

Another beautiful public space in the heart of the city, Major’s Hill Park offers great views of the Parliament buildings and the Ottawa Locks.

Its gentle paths and lovely trees make it ideal for people-watching and long walks, and it frequently hosts large events, meaning that there’s always some sort of excitement to be found.

If you’re traveling in the spring, be sure to dop by to see the tulips blooming!

19 – Explore Diefenbunker: Canada’s Cold War Museum

The Cold War was deeply impactful across the world, but there are very few museums that cover the topic in-depth.

Fortunately, the Diefenbunker Museum offers a detailed glimpse into the actual history and consequences of this political phenomenon.

The building that the museum is housed in was originally built as a bunker, designed to protect important military and political leaders in the event of a nuclear war.

Today, you can tour the facility and learn all about its unique, durable designs, while also hearing stories about the Cold War and its impact on those who lived through it.

With its mixture of personal and political elements, it’s a striking reminder of the challenges societies face in times of conflict.

20 – Hang out at Hog’s Back Park

For a little bit of rural charm in the heart of the city, spend some time in Hog’s Back Park .

Its 51.4 acres hold a variety of treasures, including waterfalls, scenic hiking trails, and even a  small collection of historical buildings.

There’s also a cafe (open seasonally) where you can relax with a snack and a beverage.

Or you can bring your own picnic, settle down in the grass, and enjoy the fresh air.

With beautiful scenery and a relaxed atmosphere, it’s the perfect place to spend an afternoon.

21 – Hear some eerie stories on a haunted walking tour

If you’re looking for things to do in Ottawa with a spooky vibe, try a haunted walking tour.

With such a long and illustrious history, it’s no surprise that the city has plenty of stories.

And, of course, that includes a lot of tales of supernatural events.

Meet up with your tour guide as evening falls, then start your lantern-lit walk to some of Ottawa’s most famous attractions and lesser-known haunts.

Along the way, you’ll learn about the history of the city and its people, and hear plenty of hair-raising stories of ghostly encounters.

This fun and chilling walk will help you see the city in a whole new light – by uncovering its darker stories!

• walking tours in Ottawa

22 – Stop by the Peace Tower

Located on Parliament Hill, this 322-foot structure is known for its beautiful clocks and its massive, chiming bells.

It also features a variety of stone carvings in the Victorian High Gothic style; keep an eye out for the gargoyles!

Inside the structure, you can visit the Memorial Chamber, a beautiful and sobering tribute to Canadians that have died at war.

While you’re visiting the numerous attractions in the area, be sure to take some time to appreciate this spectacular piece of Canadian history.

23 – Tap into old playground senses on some canopy tours

If you’ve been missing the monkey bars lately, the local adventure parks have got you covered!

Try the swings and bridges of Cité des Bois, or head to Parc des Chutes Coulonge for zip lines and some thrilling climbing courses through the trees.

You’ll get to really embrace the forest in a wild, wonderful way!

24 – Find a new favorite plant at Dominion Arboretum

If plants and flowers are more your speed, the Dominion Arboretum is a must.

With 2,000 species of flora spread across 86 acres, this picturesque park is a great place to spend some time away from the hustle and bustle of the city.

Be sure to check out the northeastern section of the garden, which features its own microclimate.

Slightly warmer than the rest of the area, this is the place to go for rhododendrons, magnolias, and other plants that normally don’t thrive in chilly northern regions.

The arboretum is part of a larger complex – Friends of the Central Experimental Farm – which also includes a tropical greenhouse, gardens full of ornamental plant varieties, and the Canada Agriculture and Food Museum.

Stop by and visit all of the attractions for a wonderfully tranquil day.

25 – Have an adventure at Saunders Farm

If the gardens and agriculture museum leave you wanting more, swing by to check out some country-themed activities.

Located just outside of the city, this delightful family farm has plenty of entertainment for every season.

In the summer, you can get lost (just temporarily!) in the maze before winding down the evening at an old-fashioned campfire and cookout.

In the fall, sample fresh cider and go pumpkin-picking, then test your courage with the five different haunting adventures of FrightFest…

And if you’re a fan of Christmas, don’t miss a wintertime visit, where you can shop for christmas trees and wreaths while enjoying charming light displays, snow-covered play areas, and even a visit with Santa!

No matter what time of year you stop by, Saunders Farm offers fun in spades!

26 – Happily hover in a helicopter

With the capital looking as small and detailed as a model playset, your time on this scenic chopper ride is sure to be exciting!

Follow the path of the Ottawa River and the forests beyond, before circling back to that lovely skyline for a landing; it will really give you a fresh sense of the city and its charms!

• helicopter tours in Ottawa

27 – Get in touch with nature at Gatineau Park

While there are plenty of great green spaces in and around Ottawa, Gatineau Park is by far the biggest.

With 140 square miles of forest, hiking trails, and lakes, it’s a popular destination for nature-lovers and fans of outdoor sports.

In warm weather, you can swim, hike, ride horses, or rock climb, then wind down the evening at one of the many beautiful campgrounds.

In the winter, there’s cross- country skiing, snowshoeing, and even snow-biking! And for the truly brave, there are even winter camping spots available.

While there are multiple entry points that you can drive to, there are also shuttles and buses available if you prefer a carless trip.

Don’t miss the chance to see some prime Canadian wilderness right in the capitol’s backyard!

28 – Take a street art tour

One of the more unique things to do in Ottawa, the Street Art and City Exploration Game is a great way to explore the area more deeply.

A combination art tour and scavenger hunt, this tour involves using your phone to solve puzzles and search for clues relating to some of the city’s finest works.

While the game is designed to take between 1 and 1.5 hours, participants are encouraged to take all the time they want to admire the different murals.

This creative and interactive excursion will show you a whole other side of the city’s art scene!

• street art tours in Ottawa

29 – Skate your way through some “cool” obstacles

Sure, ice skating is great; but it’s even more fun when there are mazes involved!

And the frozen labyrinth of Parc Nature Éco-Odyssée is certainly a fine specimen, with plenty of twists and turns that add a little fun to your session.

Surrounded by lights and trees, you’ll have a truly enchanting time on the ice!

30 – Explore the world at the Canadian Children’s Museum

If you want to travel the globe without leaving Canada, take a trip to the Canadian Children’s Museum .

Located in the Canadian Museum of History, this beloved attraction takes visitors on an interactive tour around the world – everywhere from a Parisian street corner to the deck of a cargo ship.

Kids can play and learn at the same time, and adults might find themselves having plenty of fun too.

And don’t miss the family Studio, where you can practice craft techniques from around the world – and bring your creation home with you!

31 – Hike and watch wildlife at Mer Bleue Bog

The northern boreal landscape – known for large wetlands and tall, thin evergreen trees FIX – is among the most interesting ecosystems in the world.

And you can see a prime example of it at Mer Bleue Bog .

This striking wetland, which is about 7,700 years old, hosts a variety of unique wildlife, including spotted turtles and minks.

It’s also a key climate stabilizer, and as the largest bog in the capitol region, it’s an ecological treasure.

Take a stroll along the Bog Trail to learn more about the area’s distinctive features, then spend some time picnicking or birdwatching.

If you prefer more strenuous activities, you can also hike, snowshoe, or cross-country ski.

Whether you’re interested in ecology or just looking for a scenic stroll, this gem of the natural world is not to be missed.

32 – Explore the Bank of Canada Museum

An excellent complement to the Royal Canadian Mint, the Bank of Canada Museum invites visitors to dive into the complex, fascinating story of the country’s economy.

It’s one of the best things to do in Ottawa if you’re looking for a truly unique museum experience.

Explore interactive exhibits covering everything from the process of inflation to the process of routing money, all with your own personalized avatar.

Then check out the museum’s impressive collection of global currency – including, of course, some highlights from Canada’s history.

You can even try your hand at creating your own bank note!

With a wonderful mixture of hands-on engagement and thought-provoking topics, the museum’s exhibits are like the cool Economics class you wish you had in school.

33 – Cut loose at Mooney’s Bay Park and Beach

When the sun comes out, the beaches of Ottawa come alive.

And Mooney’s Bay, with its picturesque location on the Rideau River and range of activity options, is one of the best.

Whether you want to play a round of volleyball, go for a swim, or head out on a boat, this charming beach has got you covered.

At the end of the day, you can fire up one of the onsite barbecues and enjoy a delicious meal alongside the locals.

Don’t miss the chance for some fun in the sun!

34 – Appreciate the works at Ottawa Art Gallery

If the street art tour leaves you craving more, stop by the Ottawa Art Gallery to see the impressive collection of works on display.

With a focus on creative responses to societal issues, the gallery hosts a number of rotating exhibitions from Canadian and international artists.

They also have a strong community focus; exhibitions occasionally feature works by community members, and they also offer numerous public programs and an online research library for those seeking to learn more about art.

With over 1,020 pieces and a focus on innovation, this is the place to go if you like unique cultural spaces.

35 – Fly through town with Interzip Rogers

Want to see the sights in a different way?

Then head over to Interzip Rogers , the first interprovincial zipline in the world.

Your thrilling journey will take you past such landmark attractions as downtown Ottawa, Gatineau, and more, as you zoom over the Ottawa River at high speeds.

And, of course, you’ll get the unique opportunity to fly through two provinces – Quebec and Ontario.

Not only will you get to see the city from a new vantage point, but you’ll have lots of fun, too!

• zip lining in Ottawa

36 – See the bygone past at the Bytown Museum

Long before it was known as Ottawa, the city had another moniker: Bytown.

If you’re curious about daily life in those long ago days, be sure to visit the Bytown Museum .

Learn the stories of the region from its earliest days, such as the building of the Rideau Canal, the ascent to capitol status, and the many industries that defined the area.

Take a look at the magnificent collection of artifacts from the 19th and 20th centuries, including photos, articles of clothing, and weapons.

At the moment, the Bytown Museum remains closed due to the pandemic, However, they offer a range of virtual programs to keep people engaged with history, including arts and crafts ideas, virtual tours, and short videos about the area’s fascinating past.

37 – Enjoy a peaceful canoe trip

The epic, wooded landscapes of Algonquin Park have long made it a beloved getaway for locals – and with a guided canoeing excursion, you can enjoy it too!

Journey from one picturesque lake to the next, with wildlife moving through the glens, and the endless skies and trees around you.

The tranquility of the area is a nice respite from the busyness of town!

• canoeing in Ottawa

38 – Chill at Confederation Park

If public celebrations are on your list of things to do in Ottawa, you’ll likely be spending some time at Confederation Park .

This small but mighty green space  is known for its beautiful trees, as well as its monuments to Aboriginal veterans and soldiers in the South African War

But it is also a go-to place for large events, including the Ottawa International Jazz Festival, and Winterlude, a snow and ice-focused extravaganza.

For a mixture of nice views, thought-provoking monuments, and wonderful public events, this is the ideal park to visit.

39 – Explore the ornate Rideau Hall

Another beautiful civic building that doubles as a great tourist attraction, Rideau Hall has something for everyone.

As the residence of the Governor General of Canada, it’s a wonderful place to learn more about the political workings of the nation.

But the property also includes 78 acres of well-manicured grounds, which feature a variety of trails, gardens, and monuments.

Keep an eye out for trees that were planted by the royal family!

Whether you’re seeing the outdoor sites at your leisure, or enjoying a guided tour of the building itself, Rideau Hall is well worth a visit.

40 – Try a paddle board maze

Do you love watersports?

Are you a fan of puzzles and unique expeditions?

Want to learn more about the city?

Then don’t miss out on the water maze, one of the most fun and unusual things to do in Ottawa.

Grab a stand-up paddleboard and start navigating the carefully cultivated waterways, which wind their way through farms and woodlands.

You’ll feel like you’ve been transported to another world as you explore this beautiful rural area, following the gentle curves of the innovative labyrinth.

This is an ideal excursion for those that like a little adventure with their sightseeing!

• stand up paddle in Ottawa

41 – Enjoy a dinner musical

Canada has produced an incredible amount of musical talent over the years, from pop and country to doo wop and show tunes.

And you can enjoy selections from some of the nation’s best artists – not to mention a loving showcase of all things Canadian – with the “Oh Canada Comeback, Eh?” dinner theater performance.

Hosted at the Royal Canadian Legion, this energetic show features singing, dancing, and plenty of homages to Canadian literature and culture.

As you enjoy the performances, you’ll also be able to taste some delicious national delicacies, courtesy of a five-course meal.

This may be the only place in the world where you can celebrate Anne of Green Gables, Justin Bieber, and poutine all in one place.

For an evening of spectacular entertainment and world-class food, don’t miss this fun-filled homage to Canada!

• dinners in Ottawa

42 – Test your wit at Jigsaw Escape Rooms

If you’re traveling to the city with a group – friends, family, or coworkers – then be sure to stop by Jigsaw Escape Rooms to try some new experiences.

Work on problem-solving, clue-finding, and teamwork as you navigate your way through one of seven immersive environments, each with a different level of difficulty.

Whether you’re trying to flee a murderous meatmonger in “The Byward Market Butcher,” fighting to save a fantasy kingdom in “The Castle,” or exploring a haunted buccaneer’s ship in “The Pirate’s Code,” you’ll face plenty of challenges – and have plenty of fun.

So grab a group and test your mettle. You have one hour to find a way out!

43 – Browse through the Ottawa Farmers’ Market

After you’ve seen some of the lovely farms in the area, take a trip to the Ottawa Farmers’ Market to try some of the freshest products from their neighbors.

With four different locations operating in various seasons (including one in Lansdowne Park that operates year-round), there’s no shortage of delicious options for you to try.

Browse through over 150 stalls filled with fruits, veggies, baked goods, and more, all while enjoying fabulous music by local artists.

Best of all, because the products are all from within 100 kilometers (roughly 62 miles), you can be assured that they’re at the peak of freshness, and that your money goes right back into the community.

A morning at the market is a great way to score some delicious food and have fun along the way.

44 – Snowshoe into the glorious wilderness

Winter doesn’t mean the end of hiking – far from it!

An endless array of trails near the city (particularly in the beautiful Laurentians) offer some of the finest snowshoeing in Quebec, and the beauty of the woods in winter will make even the steepest trails feel invigorating!

Get out and explore in the classic Canadian way!

45 – Head out on a scavenger hunt

If there’s one thing Ottawa loves, it’s a good scavenger hunt.

These interactive adventures are a great way to explore the city, while also adding a bit of a treasure-hunt aspect to your tour.

And it’s not just the street art version that will keep you entertained; various companies offer different takes on this exploratory game.

With Wacky Walks Ottawa, you’ll download an app that guides you towards specific sites, which you photograph and submit for points.

Or try some puzzles from Let’s Roam, which focuses on the historic Westboro neighborhood.

And if you’d like a really unique twist on the genre, check out the program offered by Zombie Scavengers.

As the name suggests, your game involves finding all the items and places necessary to make it through a zombie apocalypse.

Search for items and solve puzzles throughout town – but watch out for the undead!

Whichever option you choose, your Ottawan scavenger hunt is bound to be a memorable way to learn about the city.

• scavenger games in Ottawa

46 – Skate around the Rink of Dreams

Canada and ice-skating go hand in mittened hand.

And at the Rink of Dreams, you can strap on some blades and try the beloved national pastime for yourself.

Open throughout the winter (weather permitting), the rink is located near City Hall and other downtown attractions, making it a convenient stop on your sightseeing itinerary.

For an extra bit of beauty, stop by at night to see the gorgeous light display.

Skating through these bright rainbow hues is an ideal way to spend a winter’s evening.

47 – Enjoy the flowers at Rockcliffe Park and the Rockeries

This charming park , which resides on a high cliff with phenomenal riverside views, is perhaps best known for its springtime flower displays, including numerous daffodils.

Stroll among the blooming bursts of color, and you’ll be in no hurry for summer to come.

The park also includes the Rockcliffe Pavilion – a scenic building that is frequently used for weddings – and some beautiful ruins of classical pillars.

And of course, you can spend plenty of time just enjoying the overlooks, with great panoramic views of the city.

This hidden gem is well worth stopping by.

48 – Scale the walls at Altitude Gym

Do you have the urge to climb every rock and mountain face you see?

If so, Altitude Gym should absolutely be one of your top things to do in Ottawa.

With two different locations offering both recreational and competitive-level courses, this world-class rock-climbing gym offers walls for experts and novices alike.

For younger guests, the Quarry Zone features some family-friendly climbing routes, as well as an augmented reality climbing experience and a Ninja Warrior obstacle course.

Check out the rocks at the Gatineau or Kanata locations for some exercise and adventure!

49 – See the Former Geological Survey of Canada Building

As the name suggests, this impressive building was once the headquarters of the Geological Survey of Canada .

But it’s also a valuable piece of the town’s early history, dating back to the mid-1800s.

Featuring impressive stonework and classical accents, the building went through several other roles – including a stint as the first major Canadian national museum – before being recognized as a Federal Heritage Building in 1986.

Stop by to see its impressive details for yourself, and to learn more about the early history of geological exploration and preservation in the area.

50 – Pay a visit to Saint Patrick Basilica

If you’re looking for other religious buildings that offer rich history and beautiful designs, be sure to stop by St. Patrick’s Basilica .

As the first English-speaking Roman Catholic parish in town, it has long been a popular place for religious services and general touristic visits.

Stop by for thrice-daily Masses (six on Sundays) or to use the confessional, or simply to admire the artwork and architecture of this remarkable structure.

51 – Shop around the ByWard Market

If you want a little bit of local flavor with your souvenir shopping, look no further than the ByWard Market .

This bustling downtown attraction is beloved by locals and visitors alike, with a variety of restaurants, shops, galleries, museums, and more.

Browsing its offerings is one of the most popular things to do in Ottawa, and it’s easy to see why; as one of the largest and oldest public markets in Canada, its 600-plus businesses showcase a whole range of local talent.

While it operates year-round, ByWard does feature different attractions at various times of year, so be sure to check the directory before you go.

Regardless of whether you want to shop, eat, sightsee, or party – or all of the above -, you’re bound to have a good time at the city’s most famous attraction.

52 – Spend some time reflecting at the Memorial Chamber

Located inside the Peace Tower, this tribute to deceased soldiers offers lots of time for introspection.

It also reflects its purpose in every element of its design.

Take some time to admire the space’s stonework, all of which was quarried from battlefields in Europe.

Then move on to the six altars positioned throughout the chamber, each of which holds a book bearing the names of those that died in different conflicts.

This beautiful and thought-provoking space is a wonderful place to pay tribute to Canadian veterans.

53 – Play around at Petrie Island Park

For another area that combines natural wonder with great recreational opportunities, pay a visit to Petrie Island .

Tucked along the Ottawa River, this splendid piece of land includes an acclaimed Nature Center, several trails, swimming beaches, and beach volleyball courts.

You can also fish, boat, or visit the wildflower garden to see some beautiful local specimens in bloom.

It’s a wonderful park for the whole family to enjoy.

54 – Try your luck at Casino du Lac-Leamy

If you’re looking for several entertaining things to do in Ottawa all in one convenient location, head to Casino du Lac-Leamy .

With world-class gaming options (including baccarat, roulette, and slot machines), top-notch restaurants, and a variety of shows, this is the place to go for luxurious offerings.

Once you’ve had your fill of gambling, check out Theatre du Casino to witness incredible musical acts from around the world.

Or stop by Bar 7 to try some fantastic cocktails and beers, all while enjoying DJs, live bands, and an ever-changing schedule of activities.

And if you want to stay a little longer, head to the nearby Hilton hotel to rest in style.

This fantastic resort makes everyone feel like a high-roller!

55 – Go on a pub crawl

After trying all of the exciting activities around town, you’ll want to kick back and reminisce over some drinks.

Luckily, Ottawa has a great bar scene, which you can sample at length with a one-of-a-kind pub crawl.

Presented by Let’s Roam, this lively event will take you to bars all over the city, participating in video and photo challenges along the way.

This variation on the scavenger hunt format is a great way to experience the city’s nightlife – and taste some of its best beverages in town along the way!

• pub crawls in Ottawa

Where to stay in Ottawa?

Searching for somewhere to stay during your visit?

The Fairmont Chateau Laurier is a splurge-worthy spot, with an indoor swimming pool, high-class restaurants on-site, and easy access to the Rideau Canal and Parliament Hill.

Drop by high tea in the afternoon for an extra-elegant experience.

For a classy stay smack in the heart of downtown, you can book a room at Delta Hotels by Marriott Ottawa City Centre .

Start your day with a delicious coffee from the onsite Tim Horton’s, then wind down after a day of sightseeing with a trip to the sauna.

And at the ByWard Blue Inn , you can enjoy a delicious complimentary breakfast, in-room work spaces, and easy access to such beloved sites as the National Gallery of Canada.

Book an airport transfer to get yourself straight to the door and started on your adventures.

• best hotels in Ottawa

Where next?

Toronto is four hours to the south, and offers a lively cosmopolitan scene.

Eat terrific food and catch ambitious shows in the Distillery District, or wander through the gorgeous halls of Casa Loma, the biggest castle in North America.

Two hours to the east, Montreal is an ideal destination for those seeking a little bit of European flavor in the heart of Canada.

Dance to electronic hits and savor the winter air during Igloofest, or lean into some thrills and  chills with a haunted tour through Griffintown.

You can also devote whole days just to the city’s food and drink scene, from brewery-hopping to bagel-making classes.

And four and a half hours to the north, you’ll find Quebec City , another Euro-Canadian burg with a rich history and vibrant culture.

Check out some great exhibits on military history at the Musee du Fort, browse through the shelves in the enchanting library of the Morrin Cultural Arts Center, and, of course, eat plenty of poutine!

Planning a longer trip in Canada? Discover the best places to visit in Canada you shouldn’t miss!

Final thoughts

With a thriving creative scene, beautiful natural areas, and fascinating historical attractions, there are plenty of fun and adventurous things to do in Ottawa for people of all ages to enjoy.

So grab your outdoor gear and your best city-walking shoes, and see what the capitol has to offer!

We hope you’ve loved our diverse list of things to do in Ottawa, Canada. If you have anything you’d like to add to the list, feel free to leave a comment below.

As always, happy travels!

The top 10 attractions in Ottawa

Things to do

Like every good capital city, Ottawa is a place to learn and explore the history of our country and our world. But there’s also room for some world-renowned urban and outdoor fun.

Parliament Hill

Canada's Parliament Hill External Link Title isn't just home to the country's government; it's also a cultural and community hub whose activities are hosted in a really incredible setting. You can, for example, do yoga on Parliament Hill. Every Wednesday at noon during the summer, hundreds of people flood the hill with mats and yoga pants to stretch out in front of the iconic buildings. You can also take in the Sound and Light show, which for 30-minutes projects a beautiful, engaging story onto the Parliament Buildings themselves. And then there are the more traditional activities such as attending the Changing of the Guard or visiting the House of Commons or the Senate of Canada now located in the old Ottawa train station a few steps from the Hill. 

Rideau Canal

Many people know the Rideau Canal as the world’s largest naturally frozen skating rink (at 4.8 miles long). But the Canal is actually a year-round destination for outdoor entertainment. Yes, in the winter you can enjoy a skate along the unending rink that sits on top of the canal waters, winding your way through downtown Ottawa with two blades strapped to your feet. But when the ice melts and it’s t-shirt weather outside, you can also take a voyageur canoe down those same waters or enjoy them while on a relaxing boat cruise. You can also explore the canal by walking, running or cycling along its banks. So make a pit stop at the Rideau Canal no matter when you’re in town.

National Gallery of Canada

The National Gallery of Canada External Link Title seems to get a lot of attention thanks to a 30-foot spider statue that sits in front of the magnificent glass building. But once you get past your arachnophobia, the inside of the gallery is an incredible institution of all things art. Nearly 40,000 works cover everything from Inuit sculpture to the very latest in contemporary art. This means that, whether you're a curious soul with minimal art knowledge or you have a doctorate in art history hanging on your wall, the National Gallery of Canada has work you'll recognize, appreciate and enjoy.

ByWard Market Neighborhood

For nearly two centuries, farmers and craft merchants have taken to the ByWard Market External Link Title to share the fruits (literal and metaphorical) of their labor. What was once a simple market has turned into an absolute hub of food, shopping and entertainment. Over 175 stands fill the actual market, while more than 600 businesses call the surrounding neighborhood home. On any given visit you might stumble across a great spot for your next brunch, a quirky boutique full of gift inspiration, or an up-and-coming local band drawing in a crowd. Close to Parliament Hill, the ByWard Market Neighborhood is always alive with activity, morning and night. Make sure you stop by.

Canadian Museum of History

Though not technically in Ottawa, the Canadian Museum of History External Link Title is minutes away, right across the river in Gatineau. One of the country's oldest museums, dating back to 1856, it also happens to be the most-visited in Canada, with more 1.2 million annual visitors. So why do so many people stop in? The museum's three million items trace the history of the country, and the world, starting 20,000 years ago. In the Grand Hall, discover the story, culture and beliefs of Canada's Pacific First Nations, in a beautiful setting overlooking the Ottawa River and Parliament Hill. Look up at spectacular totem poles alongside Native houses, before moving into the First People's Hall for more insights into Canada's Indigenous roots. Make sure you see what traveling exhibits are on display, and swing by the CIN?+ theater for a movie.

Culinary experiences

Ottawa’s vibrant culinary community has deep roots: there are over 1300 farms located within the city limits and the resulting local products are used by many Ottawa chefs. The result? Fresh, inventive and flavorful creations that will have you drooling. You can enjoy gourmet tours to discover different neighborhoods while enjoying tastings, experience the many local breweries or try the best restaurants of the multicultural capital.

Canadian Museum of Nature

Would you spend an afternoon looking at dinosaur fossils? Would you take a few hours to learn about the diversity of life in our oceans and lakes? Are you curious about how birds, bugs, and bears live their lives? An enthusiastic yes to any of these questions should put the Canadian Museum of Nature External Link Title on your radar. The museum essentially takes on the entire natural world in a handful of exhibits that will leave you wondering where the time went. Explore the Arctic Gallery to learn about ecosystems and climate change in the Far North, and be mesmerized by the entire skeleton of a blue whale--the biggest animal on earth--hanging over your head.

Indigenous cultures

Long before French explorer Samuel de Champlain arrived in what is now Ottawa, the region was known to different Indigenous communities, including Huron, Algonquin, Cree and Ojibwe, to quote only a few. Their stories are told all over Ottawa: in museums, galleries, monuments and festivals. From a walking tour to an authentic pow-wow, discover some of the many ways to reconnect with Ottawa and Canada's unique indigenous past.

Canadian War Museum

Sitting on the shore of the Ottawa River, it's hard to miss the Canadian War Museum External Link Title . The museum's distinct building is largely flat, but shoots up 80 feet into the air along one side, like a waving hand calling you over. Once inside, you'll walk through exhibitions that cover Canada's involvement in conflicts throughout history. A vast collection of tanks, military vehicles and guns fill the walls, allowing you to see and explore the equipment used by generations of brave men and women on the battlefield. Over 330 works of art and a number of unique touches -- like a tall window that frames the Peace Tower on Parliament Hill -- round out the experience, and help tell the stories that shaped what Canada is today

Canada Aviation and Space Museum

Who among us hasn't thought at some point in our lives about what it would be like to be in space? At the Canadian Aviation and Space Museum External Link Title , you can discover what life is like aboard the International Space Station from the astronauts who've lived there, and see what it's like to wear a space helmet and climb inside the station. You can also fly over the city aboard a real biplane of the 1930s! Once you've lived that childhood dream, explore this impressive museum holding 130 different military and civilian aircrafts, as a well as a real, full-motion flight simulator. 

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Local spots in Ottawa make top 100 Best Restaurants list

By Natasha O'Neill

Posted May 14, 2024 07:00:00 AM.

Last Updated May 15, 2024 11:06:57 AM.

Six Ottawa restaurants have made Canada’s 100 Best Restaurants List.

Determined by Canada’s 100 Best , the country’s only national food magazine, the local restaurants hit the top 100 according to a press release by the organization late Monday evening.

The magazine brings the opinions of 150 experts from across the country — like chefs, sommeliers, restaurant owners and bartenders — to compile the country’s best places for food. 

“The 2024 judging panel marks the largest number of judges the publication has ever used before,” a press release from the magazine reads.

This year’s top spot goes to Mon Lapin in Montreal. The top 10 spots feature restaurants from Toronto, Cambridge, Ont., Jordan Station, Ont., Vancouver, Verdun, Que. and Halifax.

Riviera — Spot 28

Located on Sparks Street, the upscale eatery serves a variety of seafood, pasta and meats. 

According to the restaurant’s website , the “stylish” spot in a heritage bank building offers food and drinks that take inspiration from the “retro vibe.”

“And then there’s dessert, with many treats to ponder, though you’d be a fool to miss the meringue pie,” it reads.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Riviera (@dineriviera)

Atelier — Spot 43

Offering an “experiential” and “interactive” tasting menu with a variety of dietary options, Atelier has what it calls a “unique concept” for its menu.

Located on Rochester Street, the 40-course menu is “modernist” Canadian cuisine.

Owner and chef, Marc Lepine, spent his entire career learning the art of food, the website details.

The restaurant’s “local, fresh and fun food” has snagged a spot in Canada’s 100 list.

Paired with natural wine, the “comforting food” is a variety of salad appetizers and grilled meats.

The restaurant is located on Somerset Street West.

Supply and Demand — Spot 75

Owned by husband and wife duo, Steven and Jennifer Wall, the restaurant prides itself on the “neighbourhood” vibe.

“Our space is suitable for celebrating special occasions or milestones, dropping in after work with friends or colleagues to share a few oysters, or a night of warm bread and pasta with your family,” Supply and Demand’s website reads.

The menu is made with sustainable ingredients and meals are both “light” and “vibrant” featuring “vegetable-focused” plates.

The restaurant is located on Wellington Street West.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by supply and demand (@supply_ottawa)

North & Navy — 95

Inspired by tradition, the restaurant says it uses the similar climates of eastern Ontario and northern Italy to make “classic” dishes with seasonal foods.

“Plus, sometimes we’ll just add whatever we want,” the website reads.

The restaurant is located on Nepean Street in downtown Ottawa.

Buvetter Daphn é e — Spot 97

Clinching one of the last spots is Buvetter Daphn é e a Québecois wine bar in the heart of the ByWard Market. 

Located on William Street, the restaurant offers plates to share over an extensive drinks menu.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Buvette Daphnée (@buvettedaphnee)

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15 Best Cities in Canada to Visit, Ranked

C anada is the second-largest country in the world by landmass, but it's home to only 38 million people. Because of this, many people focus on Canada's breathtaking nature or charming small towns.

Still, Canadian cities are some of the most exciting destinations in this large and inspiring country. Within them, you'll find a mix of cultures, learn about First Nations peoples, eat some fantastic food and visit major landmarks. 

Given its gigantic size, you probably can't visit all of the country, so why not start with these best cities in Canada?

Population: 176,183

Province: Saskatchewan

Where to stay:  The Hotel Saskatchewan, Autograph Collection

What to Do in Regina

As the capital of Saskatchewan, Regina is a pretty city surrounded by gorgeous prairies. You'll find everything you could expect from a provincial capital: parks, government centers and cultural institutions. 

Make time to visit the Mackenzie Art Gallery and the Royal Saskatchewan Museum. You can also tour the imposing Legislative Building, if only for the gorgeous pictures you will be able to get there.

But the highlight of any visit to Regina will be Wascana Park. Set at the very center of the city and embracing Wascana Lake, it provides a scenic urban green space where you can walk, picnic and see local birds.

14. St. Catharines

Population: 131,989

Province: Ontario

Where to stay:  Cedar Suite Bed and Breakfast

What to Do in St. Catharines

St. Catharines is a highly underrated Canadian city. Most people head to the Niagara Falls city to see the impressive natural wonder, but we'd recommend making St. Catharines your base for it, as it is a veritable destination on its own.

Of course, visiting the ninth-widest waterfall in the world should be your priority, but once you've checked this off, there will be plenty of other fun things to do. Learn about the history of the Underground Railroad, which used St. Catharines as its terminal. Numerous formerly enslaved people — including Harriet Tubman — moved to the city to avoid being caught and brought back to the South. You can visit Salem Chapel British Methodist Episcopal Church, which was founded and attended by freed people in the 1850s.

Other interesting attractions include parks, gardens and hiking trails, which have helped St. Catharines earn its "Garden City" nickname.

13. Saskatoon

Population: 198,958

Province: Saskatchewan 

Where to stay: Delta Hotels Bessborough

What to Do in Saskatoon

Although Regina is Saskatchewan's capital, Saskatoon is its largest and most popular city. Known as "The Paris of the Prairies," it has a robust cultural scene, with live music venues, concerts, public art installations, independent art galleries and museums like the Remai Modern. 

One of the coolest things to do is visit Wanuskewin Heritage Park, where you can learn about the culture and history of Northern Plains First Nation tribes. The Beaver Creek Conservation Area provides ample opportunities for outdoor fun at any time of year, from hiking in the summer to snow-shoeing in the winter.

Whatever you decide to do, make sure you don't leave town before trying the famous Saskatoon berry pie.

12. Charlottetown

Population: 42,402

Province:  Prince Edward Island

Where to stay:  Sydney Boutique Inn and Suites

What to Do in Charlottetown

Anyone who grew up reading "Anne of Green Gables" should make it a point to visit Charlottetown. Prince Edward Island's capital is a picturesque city filled with historic brick and wood houses. 

The Confederation Centre of the Arts is the cultural heart of the city, making up an entire block and boasting a theater, an amphitheater and an art gallery. Head to Victoria Row for beautiful colorful homes from the 19th century that are now boutique shops and restaurants serving fresh seafood.

11. Halifax

Population: 359,111

Province:  Nova Scotia

Where to stay:  The Sutton Place Hotel Halifax

What to Do in Halifax

An extensive coastline, seafood and plenty of bars cement Halifax as one of eastern Canada's coolest cities to visit. 

Halifax Peninsula is where most people begin their tour of the city, as the long boardwalk provides first-rate views of the waterfront, complemented by restaurants, bars and shops. The 19th-century Halifax Citadel National Historic Site of Canada is another place with preferred views and a side of history. 

Other places worth a visit include the Canadian Museum of Immigration, detailing the story of millions of immigrants that arrived at Pier 21, and the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic. During certain times of the year, Halifax is also an amazing whale-watching spot .

10. Winnipeg

Population: 632,063

Province:  Manitoba

Where to stay:  Fort Garry Hotel

What to Do in Winnipeg

Located smack dab in the middle of Canada, Manitoba doesn't receive as much attention as coastal provinces. But if you want to visit the heart of the country, there really is no city more interesting than Winnipeg, the capital of the large province. 

The city's cultural institutions and events are its main draws, bringing in people from surrounding towns who want a taste of city life. There is the Manitoba Museum, the Winnipeg Art Gallery and the Canadian Museum for Human Rights.

At the confluence of Assiniboine and Red rivers, you'll find the Forks, a hip district decorated with converted warehouses that now act as gastropubs, concept restaurants, boutique shops and independent galleries. 

At any time of year, you're likely to find concerts, plays and other interesting events.

9. Whitehorse

Population:  24,000

Province:  Yukon

Where to stay:  Sundog Retreat

What to Do in Whitehorse

With 24,000 people, Whitehorse isn't a city per se, but we're including it here because it's the largest capital of the frigid northern provinces of Canada, which include Yukon, Northwest Territories and Nuvanut. 

Founded during Canada's gold rush, Whitehorse is now a paradise for anyone looking for extreme nature-based sports and experiences. Activities include canoeing down the Yukon River, horseback riding through trails and walking around Miles Canyon. After a long day, take a dip at the Takhini Hot Springs. 

Your experience will change drastically depending on when you visit. The summer brings with it the midnight sun: a sun that refuses to set at all. During winter, you'll have the opportunity of witnessing the majestic Northern Lights.

8. Victoria

Population: 289,625

Province:  British Columbia

Where to stay:  Abigail's Hotel

What to Do in Victoria

Gorgeous Victoria is overshadowed by its bigger, more popular cousin, Vancouver. But the capital of British Columbia is very much a worthy destination. 

Known for its British colonial architecture and mild weather, Victoria is at the southern tip of Vancouver Island, right next to Washinton state's San Juan Islands. Even by Canadian standards, locals are known for their friendly demeanor, which in part is due to the ample time they spend relaxing in urban green spaces. 

Join the locals and relax at the Inner Harbour's long and pretty promenade, or visit the flowery Butchart Gardens. Another must-do activity is having afternoon tea at the Fairmont Empress, whose 1904 building defines Victoria's cityscape.

7. St. John's

Population:  99,182

Province:  Newfoundland and Labrador

Where to stay:  Murray Premises Hotel

What to Do in St. John's

Revel in the charm of the northern Atlantic Ocean in the scenic capital of Newfoundland and Labrador.

One of St. John's most distinctive features is the colorful row of houses in its downtown, which are stacked on the hills where the town was founded. But what we really love about the city is the beauty of its rugged nature.

You'll find powerful waves crashing onto jagged rocks and will get to take advantage of adventurous whale and puffin watching tours.

Population:  1.1 million

Province:  Alberta

Where to stay:  Sheraton Suites Calgary Eau Claire

What to Do in Calgary

Most people use Calgary as a stopover on the way to Banff National Park. And we won't lie to you: Canada's first national park is most definitely the No. 1 reason to visit Calgary. But don't make the mistake of skipping a few days in this amazing city. 

Besides being the Canadian city with the highest number of sunny days, Calgary is also known for its rodeo culture. Nicknamed "Cowtown," the city hosts ranching-related events like the famous Calgary Stampede, which provides a side of Canada not many people get to see. 

Visit the Heritage Park Historical Village for a fun immersive museum experience, or get an opposite experience by going up Calgary Tower and enjoying views of the modern downtown.

Population:  812,129

Province:  Ontario

Where to stay:  The Hazelton Hotel

What to Do in Ottawa

Many people still incorrectly believe that Toronto is the capital of Canada , something that annoys Ottawans like nothing else. And while the actual Canadian capital is neither the biggest nor the most populated city, it does prove worthy of its title.

In Ottawa, you'll find some of the country's most important museums, including the National Gallery of Canada, the Canadian Museum of History and the Canadian Museum of Nature. Other popular landmarks are the beautiful government buildings, particularly the Parliament Building, where you can see the changing of the guard, a reminder of Canada's history as a British colony.

As in most capital cities, the food scene is superb in both quality and diversity, as is the festival schedule that is busy year-round. And since this is Canada, nature is never far away. You'll find trails within the city, as well as opportunities to kayak on the Ottawa River.

For an even more immersive experience, head to nearby Algonquin Provincial Park.

Population:  2.6 million

Where to stay:  Fairmont Royal York

What to Do in Toronto

Have you ever wished New York kept its vibe but was smaller, cleaner and friendlier? If you have, all you need to do is go to Toronto, Canada's most populated city. 

The economic and cultural capital of the country is undeniably cool, despite its relatively small size and population. Some of Canada's most important universities are here, and college students always bring alternative and fresh cultural events to a city. Visit the Royal Ontario Museum and the Art Gallery of Ontario, but also look for exhibitions and concerts in smaller, independent venues, of which the city has plenty. 

Downtown is where most tourists spend their time, with views of the water and the CN Tower making for the quintessential Toronto experience. That being said, dare to venture out to different neighborhoods like Chinatown, K-Town, Little Italy and Danforth (Little Greece).

Whatever you do, make sure you eat as much as possible. This is the city with the absolute best food scene in all of Canada.

3. Montreal

Population:  1.6 million

Province:  Quebec

Where to stay:  Hotel Place d'Armes Old Montreal

What to Do in Montreal

Montreal is Canada's second-most populated city, and may just be its coolest. This is where the young, alternative crowd in the country thrives, mixing Canadian culture with sprinkles of French creativity and artistic innovation.

If you're one to appreciate history, you'll love Vieux-Montreal, the historic quarter of the city, stemming from Notre-Dame Basilica and welcoming the click-clack of shoes in its cobblestone streets. The Old Town is dotted with old colonial buildings. You'll find restaurants and boutique shops, many of which are owned and operated by First Nations collectives, selling traditional art and crafts.

But Montreal is also famous for its modern side, particularly its never-ending roster of cultural events, many of which happen at one of over 80 downtown venues dedicated to art and culture. As you probably expect, the food is also beyond amazing, thanks to French influence and a large immigrant population that has brought flavors from around the world to the city.

Population: 528,595

Where to stay:  Fairmont Le Chateau Frontenac

What to Do in Quebec

A place straight out of a fairy tale, Quebec is in our humble opinion the most beautiful city in all of Canada.

The fortified Old Town, Vieux-Quebec, is absolutely breathtaking, with cobblestones, a pretty little town square, and hilly streets lined with stone buildings on both sides: historic homes now turned into restaurants and shops. You will feel as if you've been sent back in time to an old provincial French town. Wherever you are in town, you are likely to see the dominating Chateau Frontenac, an 1892 castle that now houses the Fairmont hotel.

Though most places are at their most beautiful in the warmer months, we recommend visiting Quebec City in the winter, when it becomes a veritable winter wonderland. Lantern lights are hung above the narrow streets, the Christmas market offers hot wine, and a blanket of snow covers the town.

1. Vancouver

Population:  600,000

Where to stay:  L'Hermitage Hotel

What to Do in Vancouver

Quebec may be prettier, but Vancouver comes out on top as the number one best city in Canada simply because it has it all: good weather, plenty of nature, great museums, good food and constant events. 

The city is surrounded by both mountains and the Pacific Ocean, making it perfect for people who can't choose between city life and outdoor adventures. You'll be able to kayak, hike, ski, mountain bike, swim, whitewater raft, and zip-line without having to drive more than 30 minutes. 

When you want to take advantage of the cosmopolitan side of Vancouver, go to Main Street, where you'll find some of the best restaurants in the city, or visit the Vancouver Art Gallery and the Museum of Vancouver.

To get a true feel of the city, however, you have to spend a couple of hours at one of its many coffee shops, immersing yourself in the cafe culture that is truly a way of life for locals.

Victoria Day schedule changes

The City of Ottawa would like to remind residents of the following schedule changes and City service impacts for the Victoria Day holiday on Monday, May 20.

Client Service Centres

• The City’s 3-1-1 Contact Centre will be open for urgent matters only. Please visit ottawa.ca/311 for more information.
• All services at Ottawa City Hall (110 Laurier Avenue West), Ben Franklin Place (101 Centrepointe Drive), Kanata (580 Terry Fox Drive), Orléans (255 Centrum Boulevard) and the City’s Provincial Offences Court at 100 Constellation Drive will be closed.
• The Business Licensing Centre at 735 Industrial Avenue will be closed.
• The City of Ottawa Spay and Neuter Clinic at 26 Concourse Gate will be closed.
• The City of Ottawa Archives and Gallery 112 at the James Bartleman Centre will be closed from Saturday, May 18 to Monday, May 20.
• The Barbara Ann Scott Gallery at City Hall will be closed on Monday, May 20.

Green bin, recycling and garbage collection

• There will be no curbside green bin , recycling , garbage or bulky item collection on Monday, May 20. Pick up will take place on Tuesday, May 21. In addition, the collection will be delayed by one day for the remainder of the week.
• Residents can sign up to receive collection reminders and service alerts by email or phone call at ottawa.ca/CollectionCalendar.
• Multi-residential garbage containers will be collected on the regular scheduled day. Collections of multi-residential recycling containers, bulky items and green bins will be delayed by one day for the remainder of the week.
• The Trail Waste Facility will be open on Monday, May 20 from 9 am to 5 pm.
• All City parking regulations apply.

Transit Services

• OC Transpo buses and O-Train Line 1 will run on a Sunday schedule.
• OC Transpo On-Demand will be available in Blackburn Hamlet on Sunday, May 19 and Monday, May 20. Customers can book same-day or next-day trips between 9 am and 6:30 pm.
• Rural Shopper Route 301 will not run on Monday, May 20.
• Use the Travel Planner or Transit , the recommended app for OC Transpo customers, to plan your trip.
• On Victoria Day and every Saturday, Sunday and statutory holiday, take advantage of the 2-for-1 DayPass, where two customers, 13 years of age or older, can ride all day for $11.75. Purchase the 2-for-1 DayPass at any ticket machine or from your bus operator. Kids 12 and under can ride for free every day on OC Transpo buses, the O-Train and Para Transpo.
• The Rideau Centre OC Transpo Customer Service Centre will be open on Monday, May 20 from 10 am to 6pm.
• The OC Transpo Lost and Found (Heartwood House) will be closed on Monday, May 20. Customers can call 613-560-5000 to report a lost item.
• Regular bookings or recurring trips are automatically cancelled on Monday, May 20. Customers can book trips for Victoria Day starting one week ahead by calling 613-560-5000 or using My Para Transpo .
• Para Transpo customers can also text 57272 to connect with customer service representatives from 6 am to 12:30 am for cancellations or information. Standard rates apply.
• The reservations line will be open from 7 am to 5 pm.
• The trip cancellation line will be open from 6 am to 12:30 am.
• The Taxi Coupon line will remain open.
• For more information on Victoria Day service, visit octranspo.com or call (613) 560-5000. You can also connect with OC Transpo through Facebook , X (formerly Twitter) and Instagram .

Recreation and cultural services

• Most indoor pools, arenas, and recreation and fitness centres will be open or operating on a modified schedule. Please check the facility pages on ottawa.ca for details. Please note that some regular public swims may be cancelled on short notice due to a shortage of lifeguards. It is recommended you confirm by checking with the facility before leaving home.  
• Washrooms at Mooney’s Bay, Britannia Beach and Petrie Island will open on Saturday, May 18, water levels permitting.
• Splash Pads will open on Saturday May 18. Any delayed openings due to winter weather impact will be posted on ottawa.ca
• Arts Court, Nepean Creative Arts Centre, Nepean Visual Arts Centre, City-operated museums, and Shenkman Arts Centre will be closed on Monday, May 20. The box office at Meridian Theatres @ Centrepointe will be closed and the Les Lye Studio will be open for a rehearsal.

Ottawa Public Health

• The Site program office and supervised consumption services at 179 Clarence Street will be closed. The Site mobile van will operate from 5 am to 11:30 pm.
• Visit the ParentingInOttawa web page for vaccination clinic hours and availability.
• The Sexual Health Clinic and satellite clinics will be closed.
• Dental clinics will be closed.
• The Parenting-In-Ottawa drop-ins will be closed on Monday, May 20.
• Visit the COVID-19 Vaccine page for vaccination clinic hours and availability.
• Connect with a registered nurse from Health811 for free, secure, and confidential health advice. Service is available in English and French, with translation support also offered in other languages.
• Our immunization program telephone line will be closed. You can update your child's immunization record using either the CANImmunize App or the Immunization Connect Ontario (ICON) Tool . For more information visit our Updating and Retrieving Immunizations web page .

Employment and Social Services

• 370 Catherine Street
• 2339 Ogilvie Road
• 100 Constellation Drive
• 2020 Walkley Road

Municipal child care services

• All  municipal child care centres   will be closed on Monday, May 20.

Ottawa Public Library

• All branches of Ottawa Public Library (including Bookmobile, Homebound services and InfoService) will be closed on Monday, May 20. Digital content, services, and program listings are available through the Ottawa Public Library website . Virtual programs are available on OPL’s YouTube channel . Regular hours resume on Tuesday, May 21.

For more information on City programs and services, visit  ottawa.ca ,  call 3-1-1 (TTY: 613-580-2401) or 613-580-2400 to contact the City using Canada Video Relay Service. You can also connect with us through  Facebook ,  X (formerly Twitter)  and  Instagram . 

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Two Ottawans face gun, drug charges after search warrant executed in Kanata Lakes area

Deachman: stittsville residents forced to go through hoops to play basketball on the street, rory mcilroy’s wife reached ‘breaking point’ leading to divorce: report, sunshine girl danielle, the short, abuse-filled life of chloe guan-branch, you said it: another cowardly politician.

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Another cowardly politician, you said it: another cowardly politician back to video.

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Re: EDITORIAL: Toronto’s mayor fails a test of leadership, online, May 14

Toronto Mayor Olivia Chow decided not to attend the flag-raising ceremony at Toronto city hall marking the 76th anniversary of the founding of Israel because she found it “divisive.”

This is just yet another example of a cowardly politician ceding to the vocal minority. One would hope that Toronto voters will remember Chow’s stance at the next election.

MIKE SHURTLIFF KANATA

HILDA FOR PM

Re: Canada is my country, letter, online, May 14

After reading this letter, all I can say is “Hilda Wynne for prime minister.” If our spineless politicians and university administrators had half the guts that Hilda does, we would be a less divided country.

JUDY WARREN OTTAWA

JUST DON’T GET IT

As this poor excuse for a government looks to find more ways to tax people in order to satisfy its insatiable appetite for spending, all in the name of garnering votes, it is apparent that it fails to see that people have wised up to this ploy.

We are one of the highest-taxed nations in the world, and it has backed us into a corner with very little wiggle room. All those who run household finances understand that money going out must match money coming in.

As basic as that is, Justin Trudeau and his crew don’t get it.

WAYNE BOYCE CARLETON PLACE

NOT ALL SAINTS

Re: Quit kicking public servants, letter, online, May 17

I have to rebut the letter that seems to make government workers out to be some kind of saints. I have walked in their shoes and did take great pride in my work. However, in the last few years before I retired, I would observe most newbies come in with an absolute sense of entitlement and poor work ethic.

Maybe government workers don’t want to go back to the office so they don’t have to put up with all the demoralizing office politics. I do feel bad about the LRT and decline in the downtown area.

GISELE LAVICTOIRE ORLÉANS

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Irkutsk Oblast, Russia

The capital city of Irkutsk oblast: Irkutsk .

Irkutsk Oblast - Overview

Irkutsk Oblast is a federal subject of Russia located in Eastern Siberia, in the south-eastern part of the Siberian Federal District. Irkutsk is the capital city of the region.

The population of Irkutsk Oblast is about 2,357,000 (2022), the area - 774,846 sq. km.

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Irkutsk oblast map, Russia

Irkutsk oblast latest news and posts from our blog:.

19 April, 2023 / Steam Locomotive of the Circum-Baikal Railway .

8 June, 2021 / Irkutsk - the view from above .

4 April, 2019 / Cities of Russia at Night - the Views from Space .

16 November, 2017 / The Lost World of Tofalaria .

22 September, 2016 / The train ride along the shore of Lake Baikal .

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News, notes and thoughts:

5 October, 2013   / Typical news from Russia. In Irkutsk region, the bear made his way in one of the cottages located near Ust-Ilimsk. By night, the bear climbed onto the veranda through the window and ate the whole pot of borsch while owners were in the banya. Arrived on the scene the police shot into the air and the bear ran into the woods.

Irkutsk Oblast - Economy

Irkutsk Oblast is rich in such natural resources as oil, natural gas, gold, iron, coal. It is an important transport hub of Siberia - the Trans-Siberian Railway and the Baikal-Amur Railway pass through its territory. The main rivers are the Angara, Belaya, Iya, Kitoy, Irkut, Oka, Lena, Kirenga, and Nizhnaya Tunguska.

This region plays a significant role in the Russian industry. In the all-Russian production it makes about 6,5% of power production, 15% of timber export, 6% of coal mining, almost 20% of pulp production, over 10% of carton, about 9% of oil.

The following industries are the most developed: timber and wood-processing, pulp and paper, mining, fuel, non-ferrous metallurgy, power engineering, machine-building, chemical and oil, food and ferrous metallurgy. Hydro-power industry is also well developed (the main dams: Irkutsk Dam, Bratsk Dam, Ust-Ilimsk Dam). Industrial enterprises are mainly located in Irkutsk and several district centers.

The railway is the main means of transport. The main transport line is the Trans-Siberian Railway. The western part of the Baikal-Amur Railway stretches from the town of Taishet to the east through the territory of the region. The total length of railways is about 2,500 km.

There are two airports in the cities of Irkutsk and Bratsk, they are international airports and offer flights to China, Mongolia, Tajikistan, Thailand, Uzbekistan, South Korea.

Several large navigable rivers flow through the region - the Angara, Lena, Nizhnyaya Tunguska. The largest ports are located on the Lena - Kirensk and Osetrovo. They provide cargo transportation to the Republic of Sakha (Yakutia) and the northern seaport of Tixi.

Nature of Irkutsk Oblast

Beautiful nature of the Irkutsk region

Author: Kovalev Maksim

River in Irkutsk Oblast

Author: Roman Romanov

Lake in Irkutsk Oblast

Author: V.Chokan

Irkutsk Oblast - Features

Irkutsk Oblast is a large subject of the Russian Federation that is almost equal to the territory of Turkey. It is the largest region of Russia that has no outlet to the sea. From north to south the region stretches for about 1,450 km, from west to east - for 1,318 km.

The distance from Irkutsk to Moscow by rail - 5,192 km, to Vladivostok - 4,106 km. Time difference between Irkutsk and Moscow - 5 hours. The largest cities and towns of Irkutsk Oblast are Irkutsk (617,200), Bratsk (222,500), Angarsk (220,000), Ust-Ilimsk (78,700), Usolie-Sibirskoye (73,800).

The climate in the Irkutsk region is sharply continental, with long cold winters and short hot and dry summers.

Irkutsk Oblast has a rich history: ancient sites, the Russians settling in eastern Siberia, Decembrists, the Soviet construction sites - there are historical monuments in almost every settlement. Over 60 museums are open in the region, they attract historians and tourists from Europe and Asia.

Attractions of Irkutsk Oblast

Baikal , the largest freshwater lake in the world, occupies a special place among the riches of Siberia. This lake is a wonderful natural monument known for its extremely clean, very clear water. Baikal is a unique sea-lake sung in legends and tales of antiquity, one the centers of Asian culture. It is a great place for eco-tourism.

The Circum-Baikal Railway , offering stunning views of the lake and its surroundings, is one of the most visited places of the region. It is an amazing piece of engineering, a historical monument of the 19th century. There are 38 tunnels with total length of 9,063 m, 15 stone galleries, 3 concrete galleries, 248 bridges and viaducts, 172 architectural monuments.

Olkhon , the largest on Lake Baikal, is also popular among tourists. In Buryat folk legends, Olkhon Island is a mysterious place; to this day it is known as the center of shamanism.

Khamar-Daban, Primorsky, North Baikal ridges, Sayan spurs, Olkhinskoye plateau are unique place not only for mountaineering but also for downhill skiing. Tourists are also attracted by mountain skiing in Baikalsk city.

About 60 km from Irkutsk there is an architectural and ethnographical museum “Taltsy”.

Irkutsk oblast of Russia photos

Pictures of irkutsk oblast.

Early autumn in the Irkutsk region

Author: Taranovsky

Sunset in Irkutsk Oblast

Author: Konstantin Vavilov

Church in Irkutsk Oblast

Orthodox church in the Irkutsk region

Author: Gennady Taraskov

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Top Things to Do in Bratsk, Russia

Places to visit in bratsk.

• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Good for Kids
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• Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

1. Park of Culture and Leisure of Bratsk Municipality

2. Bratsk Hydroelectric Power Station

3. Angarsk Village Architectural and Ethnographic Museum im. O. Leonova

4. Bratsk Drama Theatre

5. Children Entertainment Center Bonifatsiy

6. Church of the Nativity

7. Bratsk Museum of The History of The Development of The Angara River

8. Orthodox Church of the Assumption of the Mother of God

9. Glory Memorial

10. Art Exhibit Hall - Bratsk Joint City History Museum Branch

11. Tirlyama Puppet Theater

12. grace church in christ, 13. church of all saints resplendent in the russian land.

14. Museum of History of Political Repressions

15. The Roman Catholic Church of Saints Cyril and Methodius

16. Museum of Labour Slava of Gidroelektromontazh

17. Metallurg

18. angara stadium.

19. Bratsk River Port

20. champion sport complex, 21. pingvin hockey court, 22. transfiguration church, 23. v. i. mokrovitskiy museum, 24. lokomotiv, 25. church in the name of saint innocent metropolitan of moscow.

26. Angara Karting Centre

27. Punkt Prokata Kartingov

28. Konny Mir

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Truckers and Anti-vaccination Protesters Cause Chaos in Ottawa

The Canadian capital was an extremely cold place last weekend. The temperature with windchill was -21° C (-6° F). Yet that didn’t stop thousands of protestors demonstrating against Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s vaccine policies. After a week-long drive from Alberta to Ottawa, dozens of truckers had descended on the capital late on the afternoon of January 28, blocking roads and causing chaos in the capital.

What started out as a rally of truckers against a COVID-19 vaccine requirement for cross-border drivers morphed into an anti-vaccination protest against the Canadian government.

“Small fringe minority”

PM Trudeau’s reference to the protesters as a “small fringe minority” is backed by facts. As Transport Minister Omar Alghabra pointed out, almost 90% of Canada’s 120,000 cross-border truckers and 77% of the country’s population have had two COVID-19 vaccination shots. Since January 15, Canada has required truckers crossing the U.S. border to be vaccinated and the U.S. also announced that foreign truck drivers must show proof of vaccination to enter the country.

Symbol of vaccine resistance

The Canadian Trucking Alliance (CTA), which represents some 4,500 carriers, owner-operators, and industry suppliers, opposed the demonstration and expressed its disapproval of all protests on public roadways, highways, and bridges. On Saturday, a CTA spokesperson asked the Canadian public “to be aware that many of the people you see and hear in media reports do not have a connection to the trucking industry”. What happened over the weekend in Ottawa was that the truckers’ “Freedom Convoy” turned into a symbol of vaccine resistance. Similar demonstrations are occurring regularly in other countries like Germany, Belgium, and the Netherlands.

“Criminal incidents”

Over the past weekend, the Ottawa protests got out of hand and the police are now investigating several “criminal incidents”. Some protestors carried Nazi swastika flags, others desecrated the National War Memorial and the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. Volunteers at the Shepherds of Good Hope soup kitchen for the homeless were harassed by protesters demanding they be served after they had been turned away by restaurants for refusing to wear a mask. Security concerns led PM Trudeau and his family to leave their downtown Ottawa home to move to a secret location on Saturday.

Politically motivated protests

The dozens of protesting truckers felt their livelihoods were threatened by the cross-border vaccine mandate and their refusal to be vaccinated for personal reasons. The thousands of other protesters were simply motivated by their opposition to vaccination, vaccine mandates, or Trudeau’s Liberal government. After talking to some truckers last Friday, Canada’s Conservative leader, who opposes mandatory vaccination, expressed his support for the protest. The political nature of the protest was further underlined by former US President Trump’s expression of support.

How long will the traffic chaos in the Canadian capital continue? Hard to say: the CTA has urged the truckers to demonstrate peacefully and then leave the capital. The protest organizers said they would stay in Ottawa until the government abandons the mandates. On Monday, January 31, the protesters were blocking streets in the capital. Will this act as a precursor to another major supply chain disruption?

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Plan Your Trip to Bratsk: Best of Bratsk Tourism

PLAN YOUR TRIP Bratsk

Essential bratsk.

Bratsk Is Great For

Eat & drink.

• Taiga Hotel
• Bratsk Hotel
• Guest House Vremena Goda
• Rock Garret
• Bratsk Hydroelectric Power Station
• Angarsk Village Architectural and Ethnographic Museum im. O. Leonova
• Church of the Nativity
• Bratsk Museum of The History of The Development of The Angara River
• Park of Culture and Leisure of Bratsk Municipality

THE 10 BEST Hotels in Bratsk

Bratsk Hotels

Property types, distance from, traveller rating, hotel class, popular hotels in bratsk right now.

• Best Value Properties ranked using exclusive Tripadvisor data, including traveller ratings, confirmed availability from our partners, prices, booking popularity and location, as well as personal user preferences and recently viewed hotels.
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1. Taiga Hotel

5. Tri Kita

6. Bely Bereg

9. Lukomorye

10. Mini Hotel Galant on Deputatskaya 5

11. hotel shvedka.

13. Vostochnaya

15. solnechny, 16. yubileiny, 17. tourist.

19. Hotel AeroBratsk

20. Bratsk Hotel

21. Bratskoye Vzmorye

23. Bratskoe Vzmorʹe

25. tortoise valley inn, 26. pleaskulpantine, 27. kanstridtiw, 29. mini-otel' teremki, 30. friend house, bratsk hotels information, hotels near the sights.

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With groundbreaking set, how $184M Grand Rapids amphitheater went from dream to reality

• Updated: May. 20, 2024, 10:18 a.m. |
• Published: May. 19, 2024, 8:10 a.m.

A proposal to build a 12,000-seat amphitheater at 201 Market Ave. SW in downtown Grand Rapids is set to go to the city planning commission for consideration on June 22. (Rendering by Progressive AE)

• Brian McVicar | [email protected]

GRAND RAPIDS, MI — It was nearly two decades ago when Grand Rapids and Kent County leaders floated the idea of revving up West Michigan’s summer entertainment and hospitality industry with a large-scale, outdoor amphitheater.

Now, years after the idea was shelved, the venue is on the cusp of becoming a reality.

A ceremonial groundbreaking for Acrisure Amphitheater, the 12,000-capacity riverfront venue that’s designed to draw national acts to Grand Rapids and spark a larger revitalization along the Grand River south of downtown, is set for Tuesday, May 21.

RELATED : Demolition starts to clear way for construction of Grand Rapids amphitheater

Getting here hasn’t been easy.

There were stops and starts, new locations chosen, money to be raised, land to be acquired, city operations to be relocated, and much more.

“Designing an amphitheater seems easy — you say, well, you just throw up a bandstand and call it good,” said Dick DeVos, co-chair of Grand Action 2.0, the private development group that’s helped lead the charge to build the venue. “Well, it’s not quite that simple.”

Construction of the venue, located on what’s now city-owned property at 201 Market Ave. SW, is expected to begin once a handful of city of Grand Rapids public works buildings that now occupy the site are demolished, said Kara Wood, executive director of Grand Action 2.0.

That work could start within four months, she said. The goal is to have the $184 million venue, which will be owned by the Grand Rapids-Kent County Convention/Arena Authority (CAA), open in time for the 2026 summer concert season.

“I think it’s one of the most significant development projects that our city has seen since the Van Andel Arena,” Grand Rapids Mayor Rosalynn Bliss said. “I see this as truly this next generation of transformation in our city comparable to what happened over 20 years ago with the convention center and Van Andel Arena.”

Grand Action 2.0 is still securing final funds for the project — $114 million is expected to come from public sources, with the final $70 million coming from private sources.

RELATED : Hotel tax hike request Ok’d for August ballot by Kent County board

Here’s a look at the key moments in the project’s lifespan, as it moved from concept to reality:

This rendering, provided by the CAA, is an early look at what an amphitheater at Millennium Park could have looked like. Courtesy

Early years

Before it became one of the city’s marquee projects, before it landed a $30 million sponsorship deal with financial technology company Acrisure, the idea for building a large-scale amphitheater in Grand Rapids was floated in February 2005 by former CAA chairperson Steve Heacock.

It got lots of attention from the start.

The CAA is the public authority that operates and oversees Van Andel Arena, DeVos Place and DeVos Performance Hall. Heacock said he and his colleagues saw the venue a way of creating new revenue sources for the CAA and bolstering the summer concert industry in the region.

“The arena, at that time, was pretty quiet, pretty black in the summer because many, many acts set-up for outdoor amphitheaters and don’t play indoors,” he said. “We were missing out on a lot of the traveling shows that we depend on for revenue.”

At the time, the idea was not to build the venue downtown, but rather in Millennium Park.

RELATED : Millennium Park nixed as potential site for proposed large-scale Grand Rapids amphitheater

Located six miles southwest of downtown, the park made sense for several reasons, Heacock said. For one, the park is owned by Kent County, and there was available land that county officials were willing to make available for the project, he said.

There was even talk of transporting concert goers between the venue and downtown Grand Rapids on a tram or a barge that would float down the Grand River.

Ultimately, though, the project was put on the backburner.

One reason why: funding.

The Great Recession was pummeling Michigan’s economy as project supporters sought state and philanthropic funds needed to make the project happen. There was a request in 2008 by local state lawmakers for $10 million for the project, as well as a $30 million ask a year later for federal stimulus funds approved by former President Barack Obama’s administration.

Neither materialized.

“It backburnered,” said Rich MacKeigan, executive director of the CAA and a longtime supporter of the project. “A few of us never lost the conversation. But the conversation slowed, and it was primarily because of the economy.”

Michigan Capitol in Lansing on Friday, April 5, 2024. Cory Morse | [email protected]

A spark for the project’s reemergence came in late 2018.

A $5 million state grant, included in a $1.3 billion supplemental budget approved in the final days of Republican Gov. Rick Snyder’s tenure, gave new life to the project, and helped move the amphitheater from “an idea to something that really could happen, MacKeigan said.

“That also made local stakeholders move this from back burner to front burner, as well as Live Nation,” said MacKeigan, referring to the global concert and event producer that’s slated to promote, operate and maintain the amphitheater once it opens.

Two former Republican West Michigan state lawmakers played a key role in securing that grant: Senate Majority Leader Arlan Meekhof, R-West Olive, and Sen. Dave Hildenbrand, R-Lowell Township, who chaired the appropriations committee.

“My first impression was it’s a great amenity for West Michigan, as we have so many others with Van Andel and other venues,” recalled Meekhof, who was term limited in 2018. “This is another great attraction for our West Michigan region that drives commerce.”

The co-chairs of Grand Action 2.0, from left to right: Fifth Third Bank Regional President Tom Welch, Carol Van Andel, and Dick DeVos. Courtesy

Grand Action 2.0 formed

In March 2020, just weeks before the COVID-19 pandemic hit Michigan, another big moment for the project came with the launch of Grand Action 2.0.

The private economic development group’s original iteration, Grand Action, helped lead the public-private partnerships that paved the way for some of the city’s most defining landmarks before it disbanded in 2017. Its projects included Van Andel Arena, DeVos Place, the Michigan State University College of Human Medicine, the Downtown Market and more.

Soon after its launch, Grand Action 2.0 turned its attention to the amphitheater.

The group studied the feasibility of the amphitheater, examined sites for the project, and began examining what Heaccok called “the missing element” — how the project would be funded.

“We sat for years wondering how it was going to be paid for and hoping the federal government would come in and then some private sector folks would help out,” said Heacock, who stepped down as chair of the CAA in 2021. “Grand Action came in and said we’ll figure it out.”

Pictured in this photo is 201 Market Ave. SW, the site of the 12,000-capacity Acrisure Amphitheater. The site is on the east side of the Grand River and includes the city's salt dome just south of U.S. 131. (Cory Morse | MLive.com)

A new site selected

By 2019, Millennium Park had been nixed as the site of the amphitheater.

A consultant hired by the CAA saying the park’s geological features made the site impractical as well as the infrastructure that would be required to get more than 10,000 people in and out of the venue. Officials also wanted the amphitheater to be downtown, where it would complement the hotels, restaurants and other businesses already in place, and generate new spinoff development.

A year later, a new site was on the table: 201 Market Ave. SW.

The sprawling, riverfront site is home to the city’s public works operations, and it has long been eyed as a prime site for redevelopment because of its proximity to downtown and the Grand River. But before the site could be cleared for the amphitheater, there were two big challenges in the way.

One was the relocation of a large sewer line that ran underneath 201 Market Ave. SW and other properties along the Market Avenue corridor, from Fulton Street to Wealthy Street. The other: Finding a new home for the city’s public works services, such as snowplowing and utility services, housed at 201 Market Ave. SW.

Without those challenges solved, the project couldn’t happen.

Crews began tearing down buildings on Market Ave. to make way for the new Acrisure Amphitheater in Grand Rapids, Mich. on Tuesday, May 7, 2024. The buildings belonged to the city of Grand Rapids. Becky Particka | MLive.com

What was the fix?

To move the sewer line, the city of Grand Rapids, the CAA and two private entities — Amway Hotel Corporation and 63 Market Avenue Holdings, a company affiliated with the DeVos family — chipped in to split the $19.3 million price tag.

Amway Hotel Corporation and 63 Market Avenue Holdings both own property adjacent to the amphitheater. They provided $6.4 million because their properties were opened to redevelopment opportunities by the sewer line being moved.

Once the sewer was moved, the other hurdle was finding a new home for the city’s public works operations. Eventually, the city settled on a Kent County Road Commission complex at 1500 Scribner Ave. NW. Purchasing and renovating the site is expected to cost $92 million.

RELATED : Why Grand Rapids’ cost to make room for riverfront amphitheater jumped to nearly $100M

“It has been a long process,” said DeVos, a Grand Action 2.0 co-chair. “In the best of times, these are big projects. When you’ve got multiple moving parts, it just takes a while.”

Greg Williams, CEO of Acrisure, speaks during the Acrisure Amphitheater’s press conference at Grand Rapids Downtown Market at 435 Ionia Ave. SW on Friday, Sept. 22, 2023. (Ridley Hudson | MLive.com) Ridley Hudson | MLive.com

Naming rights

On a sunny morning last September, leaders from Grand Action, the city of Grand Rapids and a host of community groups gathered at the Grand Rapids Downtown Market for an announcement about the venue.

After years of planning, the amphitheater had a name .

Acrisure, a fast growing financial-technology company that was founded in Caledonia Township but moved its headquarters to downtown Grand Rapids in 2021, secured the naming rights for the venue with a $30 million sponsorship gift.

RELATED : Ever heard of Acrisure? What to know about Grand Rapids amphitheater namesake

It was a big step forward in the fundraising campaign for the $184 million venue.

How tough was it to secure the gift?

“No sale in my experience in business is ever an easy sale,” DeVos said. “But what you really want is a customer you can work together with thoughtfully, and they were great.”

The taxpayers of Michigan are contributing significantly as well.

A state budget signed into law by Democratic Gov. Gretchen Whitmer in July 2022 included $30 million for the venue. At the time, lawmakers from both parties spoke in support of the public funding, including Senate Majority Leader Winne Brinks, D-Grand Rapids, and then Republican state Rep. Thomas Albert, R-Lowell, who formerly chaired the House Appropriations Committee.

The Acrisure Amphitheater is expected to host an estimated 54 ticketed performance per season, as well as community celebrations and events. Officials say it could draw 300,000 visitors per season. (Rendering provided by Grand Action 2.0)

Work isn’t done yet

While the groundbreaking is set for Tuesday, not all the details of the project are tied up just yet. For one, the amphitheater has to be built — that in and of itself is a big task. Grand Action 2.0 is also in the process of locking-up the final funds for the project.

The total price tag is $184 million — of that, $114 million would come from public sources, with the remainder coming from donors.

To date, the project has secured $65.5 million in public funds, the biggest chunk of which is from the $30 million state grant approved in July 2022. Another $17.1 million is included in Grand Action 2.0′s request for a Transformational Brownfield subsidy from the city of Grand Rapids, which has yet to be approved.

Additional funds are being eyed from a proposal to increase Kent County’s hotel tax from 5% to 8% that’s slated to go before voters in August.

RELATED : Tourism, business advocates prepare to launch campaign in support of hotel tax hike

“We have to formally get the capital campaign completed,” said Wood, the executive director of Grand Action 2.0. “So all the private fundraising needs to be completed, and we need a successful ballot initiative in August for the increased hotel-motel tax.”

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