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11 Best Things To Do in Ottawa

Updated February 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.

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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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Ottawa Visitors Center

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Every 3rd Wednesday of the month except Holidays Meeting Location: 

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The Ottawa Visitors Center is located at 1028 LaSalle Street in historic downtown Ottawa. The Ottawa Visitors Center Board operates a Visitors Center to serve the traveling public with information on lodging, attractions, events and tourism amenities; to market Ottawa in partnership with the regional tourism bureau, Illinois Bureau of Tourism and other organizations with emphasis on generating overnight stays; to assist the development of hospitality training and the delivery of professional tourism services by the business community; to increase the level of public understanding that tourism is an important industry to Ottawa and helps building the economy and quality of life.

Visit the Visitors Center at http://pickusottawail.com/

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.

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Your Trip to Ottawa: The Complete Guide

Kaitlyn McInnis is a freelance travel and lifestyle writer with bylines in Travel + Leisure, Tatler Asia, Robb Report Singapore, MAXIM, and other websites and publications. Born and raised in Canada, she has been writing Canadian travel guides for TripSavvy for the past two years.

Formerly known as a sleepy town for civil service members and diplomats, Ottawa has recently become a hot spot for startups, creatives, and young professionals—and with the influx of culture and capital has come a burgeoning food and festival scene. Much more than just parliament and government buildings (although, admittedly, they’re still quite the draw), this charming city boasts internationally renowned museums, a plethora of government-funded festivals, and a surprising amount of natural splendor tucked into the city center.

Hoping to get to know Canada’s capital city a little bit better? Whether you’re planning a summertime trip or you’re dying to experience what the city has to offer come wintertime, here’s everything you need to know about planning a trip to Ottawa—from where to stay to what to do once you’ve dropped your bags.

Planning Your Trip

• Best time to visit: While it really depends on what you’re hoping to get out of your trip, the best time to visit Ottawa is between June to August—the weather is temperate and there are tons of festivals and outdoor activities to check out. If you’re hoping to experience the winter season, consider booking in December or January before it gets too cold.
• Language: French and English; while both are official languages in Canada  , the majority of people in Ottawa speak English despite being right on the Quebec border.
• Currency: Canadian dollar
• Getting around: The Ottawa city center is very walkable and can be explored almost entirely by foot. Public transit is also available and is quite reliable for trips outside of the downtown core. 
• Weather and climate: Weather in Ottawa ranges from extreme heat in the summer to quite cold in the winter—and the in-between seasons are short. The city has typical Canadian winter weather, with lots of snowstorms and a constant layer of snow on the ground. The temperature is usually around 21.6 degrees F in the winter and can get up to 80 degrees F come summertime.

Things to Do

Ottawa often gets an unfair reputation of being boring or quiet due to the abundance of government officials in the downtown core, but in reality, the opposite is true. Whether you’re planning on spending Canada Day in the capital city or you’re exploring the winter activities during the holiday season, there’s a ton of things to see and do year round.

Go shopping: While it’s no Toronto or Montreal when it comes to shopping, Ottawa still has a significant amount of shops and markets to explore. Be sure to head to the ByWard Market—a mix of tourist shops, boutiques, and farmer’s market stands, this open air market in the middle of the city draws locals and visitors alike. From there, check out the CF Rideau Centre, an expansive four-story shopping mall with distinctly Canadian retailers, including The Hudson’s Bay and Chapter’s.

Visit Parliament Hill: The main draw in Ottawa is without a doubt the historic Parliament Hill government building on the bank of the Rideau canal. The exterior of the parliament building itself, which dates back to 1859  , is a worthwhile photo opp thanks to the Gothic Revival architecture style—but consider booking a guided tour of the interior buildings if you have the time. You can even watch a debate in the official chamber of commons if you catch the right day.

Go museum-hopping: In the mood to soak up some art and culture? You’re in luck! Ottawa is home to some of the country’s best museums and galleries. Check out the National Gallery of Canada to take in classic and contemporary artwork from Canadian and international artists, then head to the Canadian Museum of History for a trip back in time by way of distinctly Canadian artifacts. From there, be sure to check out the Canadian Museum of Nature—especially if you’re traveling with kids—where you’ll be met with an impressive permanent collection of dinosaur fossils and Arctic artifacts as well as seasonal visiting exhibitions.

Attend the events and festivals: Ottawa plays host to a wide variety of festivals and activities, ranging from Canada's largest and North America's second largest blues festival, Ottawa Bluesfest to the world’s largest skating rink, the Rideau Canal Skateway. That said, the most prevalent celebration in the capital city is Canada Day. Every July 1, the city welcomes thousands of travelers with fireworks, live music all across the city, busker performances, and other festivities to celebrate all things Canada.

Find even more worthwhile attractions and activities in Canada's capital city with our article on the top things to do .

What to Eat & Drink

While Ottawa isn’t particularly known for its restaurant scene, in recent years the tides have begun to turn on dining in the capital city. These days, the city is brimming with classic Canadian fare, local wine bars, and excellent international cuisine as well as smaller coffee shops and bakeries that rival those in neighboring Toronto and Montreal. From third wave coffee shops to high-end establishments, there's something for every palate in Ottawa.

To find the best restaurants in Ottawa, refer to our complete list here .

Where to Stay

Due to the large quantity of government officials flying in and out of Ottawa, there are quite a few hotels to choose from, including well-known chains like Hilton, Fairmont, and Marriott. Most hotel properties are clustered around the city center, but boutique hotels and bed-and-breakfasts are all over the city.

The esteemed Fairmont Château Laurier is certainly the reigning queen of Ottawa when it comes to accommodations. Set in the middle of the city center on the bank of the Rideau canal, this stunning chateau offers an eclectic mix of history and modern day luxury.

Looking for something with more of a boutique feel? Consider dropping your bags at Le Germain Hotel Ottawa. The Canadian boutique hotel brand places emphasis on comfort and a personalized experience. It doesn’t hurt that the charming property is right next to the ByWard Market, either.

Ottawa isn’t necessarily known for its bed and breakfasts, but there are a handful of charming options at affordable prices if you know where to look. The Century House Bed and Breakfast Ottawa is an excellent, centrally located option that features cozy rooms complete with kitchenettes for cooking up all those fresh veggies you picked up at the market.

Explore Ottawa's best neighborhoods to stay in for your trip, and choose your lodging for your stay from our list of the city's best hotels .

Getting There

Located about 125 miles west of Montreal, the capital city of Canada is perched on the Ontario/Quebec border, making it a great pitstop to check out when traveling between Montreal and Toronto. Ottawa is about a two-hour drive from downtown Montreal, a four-hour drive east from Toronto, and about seven hours north of New York City.

• Air: Ottawa International Airport is about 9 miles (15 kilometers) or a 20-minute drive from downtown Ottawa.
• Train: VIA Rail transports travelers to the Ottawa Train Station (a 9-minute drive from downtown).
• Bus: Orléans Express, Ontario Northland, and Maheux serves Ottawa from Montreal, Toronto, and various other cities in Eastern Canada and Ontario. Buses arrive at the Ottawa Central Station on Catherine Street,
• Car: Ottawa is roughly 59 miles (95 kilometers) from the nearest American border, in Ogdensburg, New York.

Culture & Customs

• Canada’s two official languages are English and French, and while most signs and menus will be bilingual, Ottawa locals mainly speak English—no need to test your French at the restaurant!
• Most restaurants and bars will add a 13 percent tax on your total bill—but you should still anticipate tipping on top of that. A proper tip should be anywhere from 20 to 25 percent—but 15 percent is considered the minimum  .

Money Saving Tips

• Go on a parliament tour: Looking for a great rainy day activity? Consider making the trek to Parliament Hill for a tour of the interior of the main government buildings. The walking tour is completely free and is a surprisingly engaging way to spend a couple of hours even if you’re not very interested in politics.
• Go skating: Skating the lengthy Rideau Canal in the wintertime is completely free—and is considered to be one of the main draws in Ottawa. The 5-mile stretch of skating is used by everyone from visitors to locals commuting to the office and is considered to be the world’s largest skating rink.
• Cross the border: While there are plenty of nature walks in and around Ottawa, one of the coolest hikes to do is trekking across the Royal Alexandra Interprovincial Bridge. The walking bridge serves as a pedestrian connector between Ontario and Quebec and offers great views of both provinces.

The Office of the Commissioner of Official Languages. "Portrait of Official Languages Groups in the Ottawa Area."

WorldAtlas. "Parliament Hill: Home of the Parliament of Canada." Dec. 2, 2019

Ottawa Tourism. "Local Information and Services."

A Comprehensive Gay Guide to Ottawa, Ontario

Top 10 Historical Sites in Canada

Don't Miss These Attractions in Ottawa

The Best Time to Visit Ottawa

48 Hours in Ottawa, Canada: The Perfect Itinerary

15 Best Romantic Things to Do in Ottawa

The Top 15 Things to Do in Ottawa

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18 Top Things to Do in Winter in Canada

The 8 Best Hotels in Ottawa

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Winterlude Visitors Guide in Ottawa

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Weather in Ottawa: Climate, Seasons, and Average Monthly Temperature

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Flocking to Northwest Ohio? Here's what's new at the 2024 Biggest Week in American Birding

O AK HARBOR ― For 10 days in May, an expected 90,000 bird lovers will flock to Ottawa County for the Biggest Week in American Birding.

The May 3-12 festival, hosted by Black Swamp Bird Observatory, features guided birding activities including art and photography workshops, field trips, bird-inspired concerts, a bird tattoo contest and events featuring New York Times Top 10 authors.

Black Swamp Bird Observatory is considered the warbler capital of the world, but all of Ottawa County, from the islands to the inland wetlands, is ideal for migratory birds making their way north for the breeding season.

A 2013 observatory study suggested the event has a $37 million economic impact on the region, a total now estimated to be nearer $40 million .

New in 2024 at the Biggest Week in American Birding

New to the Biggest Week are printable field trip site guides for various locations that include accessibility information, meeting locations, target species and how to get your eBird checklists following the trip.

Black Swamp Bird Observatory also offers accessible field trips that move at a speed that leaves no one out. Accessible bathrooms are available at each site.

This year will also feature morning flight counts. Birders can join counters and guides every morning, weather permitting, on the dike path that separates the marsh from Lake Erie at Metzger Marsh Wildlife Area. Birds that were over water near sunrise search for an ideal place to land, which the Metzger Marsh area represents.

Also new: the world premiere of "A Season on the Wind," a 60-minute cinematic concert based on Kenn Kaufman ’s ode to migratory birds. Violinist Simone Slattery, vocalist Majel Connery cellist and Anthony Albrecht will perform twice. Tickets remained as of Wednesday for the May 13 performance at the Toledo Museum of Art Glass Pavilion. The May 10 performance at the Maumee Bay Lodge & Conference Center Ballroom is sold out.

And a keynote speaker series that runs May 3-10 will include appearances by best-selling authors Amy Tan, Christian Cooper and Jennifer Ackerman, among other guests, plus the official launch of Kenn Kaufman's latest book, "The Birds that Audubon Missed: Discovery and Desire in the American Wilderness."

Key locations for the Biggest Week in American Birding

• Festival headquarters: Maumee Lodge & Conference Center , 1750 State Park Road, Oregon
• Ottawa National Wildlife Refuge Visitor Center, 14000 W SR-2, Oak Harbor
• Black Swamp Bird Observatory , 13551 W SR-2, Oak Harbor
• Magee Marsh Wildlife Area , 13229 W SR-2, Oak Harbor

Register for the Biggest Week in American Birding

Registration is required for many official events and securing your place early is recommended. Register at https://bit.ly/bigweekreg .

Return for more previews, photos and videos of the 2024 Biggest Week in American Birding.

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This article originally appeared on Port Clinton News Herald: Flocking to Northwest Ohio? Here's what's new at the 2024 Biggest Week in American Birding

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Canada brings the world together in pursuit of an ambitious global deal to end plastic pollution

From: Environment and Climate Change Canada

News release

Next week, from April 23 to April 29, Canada will welcome the world to Ottawa for the fourth session of the Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee (INC-4) at the Shaw Centre to advance the development a global agreement on plastic pollution by the end of 2024.

April 18, 2024 – Gatineau, Quebec

Plastic pollution is everywhere in the environment, travelling beyond national borders, posing a risk to wildlife, and damaging ecosystems. Plastic production and waste is set to triple by 2060, and up to 37 million metric tons of plastic pollution could be entering our oceans every year by 2040. This is leaving a legacy of environmental impacts for future generations. Plastic pollution costs more than $2 trillion every year, a burden that is largely held by local communities. Without new and effective control measures, and increased international cooperation, the global plastic pollution crisis will intensify.

Next week, from April 23 to April 29, Canada will welcome the world to Ottawa for the fourth session of the Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee (INC-4) at the Shaw Centre to advance the development a global agreement on plastic pollution by the end of 2024. During the conference, the Canadian delegation, led by the Honourable Steven Guilbeault, Minister of Environment and Climate Change, will convene with international partners from around the world to help drive ambition and alignment on addressing plastic pollution.

INC-4 is the fourth negotiating session of five sessions being coordinated by the United Nations Environment Programme. INC-4 represents the penultimate moment to unite the world around a shared goal to end plastic pollution.

Canada is kicking off the session with a series of events organized in partnership with the World Wide Fund for Nature. On April 21, Minister Guilbeault will host a meeting of the alliance of INC host countries—Canada, Uruguay, France, Kenya, and the Republic of Korea—to discuss shared objectives in the INC process. He will then meet with several ministers and high-level representatives to continue building the political momentum for an ambitious outcome.

On April 22, coinciding with Earth Day under the theme “Planet vs. Plastics”, the Minister will co-host a high-level Partnerships Day, which will include action-oriented discussions with ministers, Indigenous peoples, youth, civil society, all levels of government, and the private sector to accelerate efforts to beat plastic pollution.

Negotiation sessions will start on April 23, where countries will continue to work through the possible scope, wording, and mechanisms, including financial tools, to include in the new legally binding treaty on plastic pollution. No final agreement is anticipated at INC-4; however, it is the critical point to build the foundations for a successful conclusion to the negotiations at INC-5 in the Republic of Korea later this year.

Canada has taken many actions to address the growing global challenge of plastic pollution, including the launch of the Ocean Plastics Charter during Canada’s 2018 G7 Presidency, the introduction of a domestic ban on harmful single-use plastics, the implementation of its comprehensive plan to reduce plastic waste and pollution, and its move toward a circular plastics economy. Canada is also an inaugural member of the High Ambition Coalition to End Plastic Pollution, a group of more than 60 countries representing every United Nations region, with the goal to end plastic pollution by 2040 and develop an ambitious and effective global agreement.

Canada looks forward to collaborating with all nations to drive substantial progress in our united goal to end plastic pollution.

“We have a historic opportunity to tackle the global plastics crisis at INC-4 in Canada. The rate at which we are all consuming plastics is simply unsustainable, and it is only by rallying together that we can solve it. We are taking some big steps at home to cut the amount of plastics that go into landfills and the environment, but tackling this problem can’t happen without a global solution. Canadians and people around the world want to see their leaders come to INC-4 to make real progress on ending plastic pollution by 2040.” – The Honourable Steven Guilbeault, Minister of Environment and Climate Change

Quick facts

Minister Guilbeault will also be meeting with representatives from provinces, territories, and Indigenous organizations to discuss Canada’s unique challenges and opportunities to collectively tackle plastic pollution, including in the marine environment.

Throughout negotiations, Canada will reinforce the urgent need to conclude negotiations this year, reiterate the shared consensus among countries to end plastic pollution, advance progress on key aspects of the treaty, advocate for a mandate for intersessional work between negotiating sessions, and continue to be a strong voice for inclusivity in the INC process.

In 2022, Canada and all other United Nations member states agreed at the resumed fifth session of the United Nations Environment Assembly to establish the Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee with the mandate to develop a legally binding global agreement on plastic pollution by the end of 2024.

At the sixth session of the United Nations Environment Assembly in February 2024, Canada hosted a ministerial meeting and formed the INC Host Country Alliance alongside Uruguay, France, Kenya, and the Republic of Korea. Host Country Alliance members expressed their shared commitment to conclude negotiations by the end of 2024.

Canada is taking action to reduce plastic waste and pollution and help Canadians move toward a circular economy through its comprehensive Government of Canada plan. Canada is also working with provinces and territories to implement the shared Canada-Wide Strategy on Zero Plastic Waste and Action Plan that addresses the entire life cycle of plastics to keep plastic in the economy and out of the environment.

To ensure INC-4 is inclusive, equitable, and meaningful, Canada is also hosting a Plastic Action Zone at the National Arts Centre in Ottawa from April 23 to April 29.

The Plastic Action Zone offers a separate space for partners and stakeholders to share actions, innovations, and experiences to help drive ambition and prevent plastic waste and pollution throughout the life cycle of plastics. Registration for members of the public to attend events in the Plastic Action Zone is available online.

The 2024 theme for Earth Day, “Planet vs. Plastics” , calls to advocate for widespread awareness on the health risk of plastics, rapidly phase out all single-use plastics, urgently push for a strong global agreement on plastic pollution, and demand an end to fast fashion. 

The fifth and final planned INC session (INC-5) will take place from November 25 to December 1, 2024, in Busan, Republic of Korea.

Associated links

• Fourth Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee (INC-4)
• INC-4 Media Accreditation
• Call to Action – Host Country Alliance
• High Ambition Coalition to End Plastic Pollution
• Plastic Action Zone
• Ocean Plastics Charter
• Canada’s Zero Plastic Waste Agenda

Oliver Anderson Director of Communications Office of the Minister of Environment and Climate Change 819-902-0686 [email protected]

Media Relations Environment and Climate Change Canada 819-938-3338 or 1-844-836-7799 (toll-free) [email protected]

Environment and Climate Change Canada's Twitter page

Environment and Climate Change Canada's Facebook page

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Avian flu has spread to cows, milk — and experts worry human outbreak could be next

Avian influenza has raged through Michigan's bird population for two years, forcing commercial farmers and people with backyard coops to kill more than 6.6 million infected chickens and turkeys in about two dozen counties across the state — all with the hope of slowing the spread of the highly pathogenic H5N1 virus.

But so far, culling infected flocks hasn't been enough to curtail the assault from the virus, which was identified Wednesday in another Michigan commercial poultry facility, according to the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development. This time, it's in Gratiot County. A news release did not provide other details about the facility.

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration and the U.S. Department of Agriculture have all said the risk to humans is low — even though H5N1 viral particles were detected in the commercial pasteurized milk supply.

What's most concerning to public health experts is that it isn't only birds that have been infected by the H5N1 virus. It's spreading in cows — eight U.S. states, including Michigan, have known bovine cases — and the virus has been detected in other mammals, too, such as seals and foxes, raccoons and skunks. In two cases in other states, people have gotten sick.

"To date, this strain of avian influenza has not been associated with significant disease in humans," said Dr. Kim Dodd , director of the Michigan State University Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory.

The virus doesn't appear to spread easily from animals to people. Both human cases in the U.S., which occurred in Colorado and Texas, were among farm workers who handled sick animals, said Dodd, whose lab is part of the National Animal Health Laboratory Network , which she described as "the first line of defense in the case of an incursion of a high consequence, the animal disease or avian disease like H5N1 avian influenza."

But still, she said, "identifying highly pathogenic avian influenza in cattle populations was unexpected. We are learning a lot as we go forward."

Avian flu sparks new pandemic concerns

With the coronavirus pandemic so fresh in public consciousness, there's fear that this avian influenza virus could mutate in a way that would allow it to more readily spill over from animals to people, and then potentially from person to person — triggering another deadly viral scourge.

"When you start to see it in multiple birds, that's a concern. When it gets to multiple mammals, that's getting pretty worrisome. And now that it's in our broad-scale commercial system with milk, we've got increasing touchpoints with the human-animal interface and opportunities for zoonotic spillover," said Timothy Cernak , an assistant professor of chemistry and medicinal chemistry at the University of Michigan.

"I really want to stress that if avian flu breaks out in humans, it could be a lot worse than COVID. The fatality rates are much, much higher."

Cernak pointed to the high bird flu mortality rate in people from Cambodia who were infected with a different subtype of the H5N1 virus than what's currently circulating in the U.S. Of 64 people who contracted the virus from 2003-23 in Cambodia, 41 died, according to the World Health Organization .

"That's not the strain that's here," Cernak said, but "you can imagine that is not something we want to deal with."

Cernak's work centers on using artificial intelligence to develop a new antiviral drug that would be effective in stopping a potential avian flu outbreak.

"The avian influenza strains that were circulating late last year were pretty resistant to our current antiviral drugs," Cernak said. "What that means is that if we had a breakout, we wouldn't have great tools in hospitals to deal with that.

"The good news is, we know a lot about antivirals. We know a lot about how to make drugs and AI is really an awesome tool to accelerate that."

How sick does the current strain of bird flu make people?

The H5N1 strain that jumped from birds to cows and then to people is the subtype 2.3.4.4b, according to the CDC.

Scientists refer to it as being "highly pathogenic." What that means, Dodd said, is that this particular variation of bird flu is especially deadly for chickens, turkeys, geese and ducks that are raised for the production of meat or eggs for the food supply.

It does not, however, mean the virus causes severe illness or death in other animals or humans.

The two people with known cases of H5N1 bird flu in the U.S. had very mild illnesses, the CDC reported:

• A Texas farm worker who was exposed to sick cows in March had only one symptom: eye redness consistent with conjunctivitis. The person was treated with an antiviral flu drug, was asked to isolate to prevent potentially spreading the virus, and recovered.
• In April 2022, a Colorado farm worker who culled poultry suspected of being infected with the H5N1 flu virus reported feeling fatigue for several days. The person tested positive for the virus and was isolated and also treated with a flu antiviral drug.

“To date, this strain of avian influenza has not been associated with significant disease in humans," Dodd said.

“In the case of the dairy cows, we know that there was one individual working closely with infected cattle who did develop a little bit of conjunctivitis. There's a lot of work ongoing to perform surveillance on individuals who work closely with some of the infected animals.

"And, to date, we don't have any indication that this is causing disease in people. It’s a really important thing to keep in mind: This is low risk for the human population."

The bird flu's leap to mammals

In May 2022, H5N1 was first detected in red foxes in Michigan, Minnesota, Iowa, New York, Alaska and Wisconsin. It's possible they ate the carcasses of birds that had died from avian influenza, Dodd said, and got infected.

Bobcats in Wisconsin, opossums in Iowa and bottle-nosed dolphins in Florida also were sickened by bird flu in 2022, according to the USDA .

Then came raccoons in Washington and skunks in Idaho. Harbor seals and gray seals in Maine got sick, as did grizzly and Kodiak bears, polar bears and black bears in Alaska.

It killed elephant seals in Argentina, and infected Antarctic penguins .

But it wasn't until late 2023 when the H5N1 virus was likely transmitted for the first time from a bird to a cow, according to Dr. Michael Worobey, an evolutionary biologist at the University of Arizona, who worked with others this month to analyze the genetic sequences of the H5N1 virus .

He wrote on X , the social media platform formerly known as Twitter, that there is a "strong possibility that this has been circulating in cattle for months under our noses, even before the first inkling there might be something new in February. This reveals massive gaps in our pathogen surveillance and detection systems."

Though Worobey's work suggests bird flu was spreading in cows in late 2023, the first known dairy cattle H5N1 infections weren't reported by the USDA until March 25, when the agency said it had identified cases in Texas and Kansas.

A few days later, the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development announced that asymptomatic cows from Texas had brought the bird flu to a Montcalm County farm.

"Further testing and investigation by state and federal officials have revealed the source of infection," MDARD said in a news release at the time. "The farm recently received cattle from an affected premises in Texas before that herd showed any sign of disease. When the cattle were moved from Texas to Michigan, the cattle were not symptomatic and did not appear ill."

The cows that were sick had decreased lactation and low appetite. Farmers were instructed to isolate the cows, minimize their exposure to visitors and to prevent them from contact with other animals and wildlife.

But despite the precautions, the virus continued to spread. MDARD reported that H5N1 now has infected dairy cattle from Ionia, Isabella, and Ottawa counties, too, along with seven other states .

And, Dodd said, some barn cats that drank raw milk from sick cows also were infected with bird flu.

Where in Michigan has the bird flu been found in poultry?

The H5N1 virus has been identified in domestic birds from Bay, Branch, Cass, Eaton, Genesee, Gratiot, Ingham, Ionia, Kalamazoo, Lapeer, Livingston, Macomb, Menominee, Montmorency, Muskegon, Newaygo, Oakland, Ottawa, Saginaw, Sanilac, Tuscola, Washtenaw and Wexford counties, according to MDARD.

Is H5N1 flu in the U.S. milk supply?

Yes, but it's not likely to make you sick if you drink pasteurized milk, the FDA says.

Roughly 99% of the nation's milk comes from farms that adhere to the  Pasteurized Milk Ordinance , according to the FDA. That ordinance includes safety measures that require milk from sick cows to either be diverted or destroyed; it isn't used in the commercial milk supply. Additionally, milk must undergo pasteurization, which uses heat to deactivate viruses and harmful bacteria.

Still, the FDA announced earlier this week that it detected fragments of the H5N1 virus in the commercial pasteurized milk supply, and pledged to continue investigating.

Authorities used quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) testing, which can detect viral DNA particles, but does not identify whether those bits of DNA are capable of replicating or causing disease.

"Because qPCR findings do not represent actual virus that may be a risk to consumers, the FDA is further assessing any positive findings," the agency said in a statement issued Tuesday. "To date, we have seen nothing that would change our assessment that the commercial milk supply is safe.

"Based on available information, pasteurization is likely to inactivate the virus, however the process is not expected to remove the presence of viral particles. Therefore, some of the samples collected have indicated the presence of (highly pathogenic avian influenza) HPAI."

Dr. Lea Monday, an infectious diseases physician at the Detroit Medical Center, said drinking pasteurized milk remains safe.

"The virus remnants that were found in the pasteurized milk are just pieces of H5N1 DNA," said Monday, who added that she and her children continue to drink pasteurized milk and and eat cheese products made with pasteurized milk. "It's broken down virus remnants, but not actual live virus. ... People don't have to worry about getting bird flu through cow's milk if they're drinking it, and it's pasteurized."

Health officials warn: Don't drink raw milk

"It's really important for people to realize that although there's no documented evidence of someone getting sick with H5N1 from drinking raw milk, if it hasn't been pasteurized, it could have viral particles that could potentially be infectious," Monday said.

"And there are other things that could be passed to you through raw milk like listeria and brucella that cause very dangerous infections that have extremely high rates of mortality. Listeria causes stillbirth and miscarriage and death. So that's another reason we should not be consuming raw, unpasteurized dairy products."

Is it safe to eat beef and poultry?

The USDA says the nation's meat supply is safe. Animals are inspected prior to slaughter to ensure sick livestock do not enter the food supply. 

However, Dodd said it's important to thoroughly cook eggs, poultry and beef to kill off any bacteria or viruses in chicken, duck, goose, turkey or beef.

"At this point, there is no indication of detection of highly pathogenic avian influenza in muscle or meat," she said. "And again, I say that is to this point. I don't have reason to expect that is going to change."

How worried should I be about H5N1 becoming more infectious?

"I think the average American should not be overly concerned about their personal risk at this moment," said Aubree Gordon, a professor or epidemiology and global public health at the University of Michigan. She also is director of the Michigan Center for Infectious Disease Threats and Pandemic Preparedness.

However, she said, there ought to be scrutiny about whether U.S. public health agencies are doing enough to identify the true scope of avian influenza's spread.

"There were a lot of lessons that we certainly should have learned during the COVID-19 pandemic and some of the prior pandemics," Gordon said, "especially in making sure there's enough surveillance going on.

"The dairy industry has a lot of power. It has a lot of money. I do think it's really critical at this moment that the situation is extremely carefully monitored and that there's a lot of surveillance so that we know what's happening."

One of her biggest fears is that the H5N1 virus will begin to infect pigs.

"Pigs can be a bit of a mixing vessel for flu," Gordon said. "They have some of the same receptors that humans have and a virus that transmits well amongst pigs may transmit well amongst humans."

She suggested the USDA should carefully monitor swine for avian influenza infections and public health authorities ought to consider PCR testing of people who have flu-like symptoms.

"There’s been a shift toward rapid testing for flu, and I’m concerned about that with H5N1 emerging," Gordon said. Rapid tests can't differentiate which strain of the flu a person might be carrying, whereas a PCR test sample could be used to identify bird flu.

"A little more testing — testing with a PCR — might be merited, particularly in areas where there are a lot of cows."

What is being done to stop the spread of avian influenza?

The USDA announced tighter restrictions Wednesday on dairy cattle to prevent the spread of H5N1.

Among the new rules, which take effect Monday, cows must first test negative for influenza A viruses and meet USDA conditions for interstate travel before they can be transported over state lines. If cows test positive for the virus, farmers must provide information to help authorities trace their movement from state to state.

In addition, labs and veterinarians will be required to report positive influenza A tests in livestock. The USDA also has a list of biosecurity recommendations for livestock and poultry.

To report sick or dead domestic birds, call the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development at 800-292-3939.

Contact Kristen Shamus: [email protected]. Subscribe to the Free Pre ss.