tourist places in 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

Ottawa   Travel Guide

Courtesy of Danielle Donders | Getty Images

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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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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33 Things to do in Ottawa – A Complete Guide to the City

Written By: The Planet D

Updated On: February 19, 2024

There are many things to do in Ottawa that are exciting and unique that will easily make for an excellent vacation for couples and families alike.

When people think of visiting Ottawa, a trip to the Parliament buildings and skating on the Rideau Canal are always at the top of the list. But there is so much more to do in Ottawa than exploring the government buildings or seeing museums.

Table of Contents

Things to do in Ottawa

This comprehensive Ottawa travel guide will give you ideas for what sites to visit, what adventures to be had and where to stay and eat. Ottawa is quickly becoming one of Canada’s coolest cities and here’s why.

Ottawa has a lot of free activities, from skating on the Rideau Canal, touring the Byward Market to touring parliament hill and even museums are free at a designated time.

Our favorite things to do at night in Ottawa is to go up to have a cocktail at the rooftop bar of the Andaz Hotel, go bar hopping at the ByWard Market and grab a drink at the Whales Bone .

Ottawa is filled with adventure from SUP on the Gatineau River to Whitewater rafting the Ottawa River.

We have an entire list of amazing things to in winter from Winterlude to snowshoeing, Parc Omega , and skating trails. Read here

What to do in Ottawa – Adventure

1. sup with urban ocean.

Imagine paddleboarding the Gatineau River looking up at the stunning parliament buildings of Ottawa. Urban Ocean Ottawa opened the first SUP Centre in Eastern Ontario and now offers certification, instruction, tours and SUP yoga! It is one of the most unique and fun things to do in Ottawa and that’s why we put it right at the top.

You’ll come away with a tour that takes you from the yacht club to the Rideau Canal Locks, Parliament Buildings, Supreme Court of Canada and out to the centre of the river for a panoramic view of Ottawa and Gatineau.

• For more information and to book a tour visit the Urban Ocean Website. 
• Check out our whitewater kayaking adventure on the Ottawa River

2. BiPlane Flight

I didn’t realize that you could fly in a genuine World War II Biplane but at the Canada Air and Space Museum, regular flights take place during summer hours.

We boarded a Waco UPF-7 open-cockpit biplane circa 1939 and sat side by side during the 25-minute flight showcasing the Gatineau Hills and Downtown Ottawa, including a pass over the Parliament Buildings. Our pilot even did a few maneuvers over Gatineau before turning back towards the airstrip. It was a hoot!

• For more details visit the Aviation and Space Museum Website. 
• Tours start at $65. Our tour of both Gatineau and Ottawa was $145.

3. Hiking Gatineau

I know this article is supposed to be about Things to do in Ottawa, but Ottawa and Gatineau go hand in hand. Gatineau is a city in Quebec, located just across the river from Ottawa, Ontario. There are bridges, aqua taxis and ferries connecting the two cities and they complement each other beautifully. Gatineau houses amazing hiking trails, nightlife, and museums. But it’s the outdoors we love best. When you are in Ottawa, you must go out to Gatineau Park.

Gatineau Park

Gatineau Park is a 365 square km (139 sq mi) conservation park filled with walking trails. One entrance is just a mere 4 km from Downtown Ottawa. Gatineau has 165 km of hiking trails and 90 km for mountain biking. We saw a lot of road cyclists when visiting the park as well. You can see the William Lyon Mackenzie Estate a 231 hectare (acre) estate of Canada’s 10 Prime Minister.  There are beaches, canoeing and camping.

4. Hiked to the Carbide Wilson Ruins

This 30-minute hike is an easy trail to find and is a picturesque walk through the forest and along lakes. It ends at the laboratory and summer residence of inventor Thomas Wilson who invented the industrial chemical calcium carbide. Afraid that people would steal his other ideas, he built an estate and dam in the middle of the forest where he could work in private. The house and dam still stand and are in a beautiful setting and is one of the best Instagram spots in the Ottawa Region.

5. Whitewater Rafting

The Ottawa River is considered to have some of the best whitewater rafting on earth. It attracts professional rafters and kayakers to run its class 5 rapids. Located just one hour outside downtown Ottawa, there are three rafting companies that will take people on the rafting excursions of your choice. If you are a family, there are even smaller rapid trips to suit everyone.

Three Whitewater Rafting Companies

There are three rafting companies on the Ottawa River. Owl Rafting, Wilderness Adventures and RiverRun. We went with OWL Rafting and stayed over at their all-inclusive resort where we enjoyed two days of rafting.

• Day one is with a large group raft as our guide used two giant paddles to navigate the giant rapids known as The Staircase.
• Day two is in a sport raft with only 4 people on a small raft.
• The resorts are rustic and relaxing with breakfast, lunch and dinner buffets included.
• Check out OWLRafting for details

Ottawa – Things to do Around Parliament

6. parliament buildings.

It’s cliche and everyone says to see the Parliament buildings, but Canada really does have beautiful government buildings. You could simply walk around the grounds of the Parliament and take in the views of the river below, but a tour is highly recommended.

Parliament Tours

Ottawa parliament tours are free and last approximately 45 minutes. You will have to go through a security screening- Just like at the airport. Only one small bag is allowed. No video is allowed and you can bring a bottle of water.

Tours happen in the center and east block of the parliament buildings and are free. Tickets are available at 90 Wellington Street directly across from Parliament Hill. If you want to be in the audience for Question Period, you can  reserve tickets .

7. Changing of the Guard

Canada has its own changing of the guard just like England. You can catch two different ones in the city. Changing of the Guard happens daily at the WW1 Memorial. It’s small but interesting with a piper and two guards changing their duties at the Tomb of the Unkown Soldier. The large spectacle of parliament is a must where a lavish ceremony takes places each day at 9:50 am from June to August on the East Lawn of Parliament Hill.

8. Yoga on Parliament Hill

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has been known to pop by Yoga on Parliament Hill and every Wednesday from May to August people gather on the Hill for mass yoga classes. It’s a free session sponsored by Canadian owned yoga brand Lululemon Athletica.

Ottawa Museums

Ottawa isn’t just our nation’s capital, it’s also the  museum capital of Canada.  (okay that’s not a formal name, but I think it is!)

9. Aviation and Space Museum

130 aircrafts propellers and engines are on display including military jets, WWII fighter biplanes, helicopters, one of the first planes invented and much more. You can even take part in flight simulations or book helicopter tours and your own biplane flight like we did above. It is considered one of the finest aviation museums on earth and highly worth a visit – the  Aviation Museum for Details 

10. National Gallery

The National Gallery of Canada is a striking structure housing an extensive collection of Canadian art. It is the giant spider out front that attracts people’s attention. Maman is a famous sculpture designed by   Louise Bourgeois  and Ottawa isn’t the only city to have one. If you travel a lot, you might have seen it at the Tate Modern Art Museum in London England in Missouri, USA, St. Petersburg, Bilboa, Tokyo, Seoul, Doha and Des Moines.

11. The Canadian Museum of History

From the First People’s Hall celebrating the history of the First Nation’s to The Canadian History Hall showcasing important moments in Canadian history and famous Canadian personalities. The architecture is unique represents the Canadian landscape and it a beautiful sight. From here, you’ll find gorgeous views of the Ottawa Skyline and the Alexandra Bridge lit up at night.

12. Fairmont Chateau Laurier Historic Display

The Fairmont Historic Display is free and located on the main floor of the  Fairmont Chateau Laurier. Enter the grand hall of the famous Chateau Laurier walk past the boutiques and into a hall filled with photos documenting the history of the property and the city. Winston Churchill frequented the Chateau Laurier and there are several pictures of him enjoying all the things to do in Ottawa.

It even has a Titanic connection. Charles Melville Hays was in charge of the railway expansion in Canada and had a hand in hiring the designers for the hotel. The Chateau Laurier was the flagship hotel of many more hotels to be built along the railway line.

There are many more museums in Ottawa that warrant their own blog post. Which we did here. Discover the Canadian War Museum, the Canada Science and Technology Museum the Cold War Museum and more at our post here. Check out  Ottawa Tourism  for the complete list.

13. Rideau Hall

Rideau Hall is a national historic site that is home to one of the most important figures in the Canadian Government. The Governor-General. Group and private tours are offered daily to explore the quarters of our Governor-General. The Governor-General of Canada does the same duties that the Queen of England does.

Our current Governor-General resides there but visitors have a chance to tour a portion of this residence and the official halls used for ceremonies and meetings. This is definitely one of the most interesting things to see in Ottawa. Check out how to book a tour at the  Rideau Hall Website

Ottawa Luxury and Relaxation

14. fairmont chateau laurier.

No trip to Ottawa would be complete without staying at the Fairmont Chateau Laurier. It’s welcomed royalty, celebrities and world leaders to its historic chambers. Built in 1912, the Fairmont Chateau Laurier is one of Canada’s most famous landmarks.

Located directly on the Rideau Canal, it has the best views in the city and is centrally located to nearly every major site. The ByWard Market is a 5-minute walk one way and the Parliament buildings are a 5-minute walk the other. Check out their website for  availability and rates or compare prices on TripAdvisor

15. Nordik Spa-Nature

When visiting Ottawa, take some time to get out of town and spend a day at the quiet retreat of the  Nordik Spa-Nature . Located 20 minutes from Ottawa, in Gatineau Quebec, Nordik Spa tops the things to do near Ottawa. It is a unique spa experience surrounded by nature.

The Källa Treatment (Saltwater Pool) was a highlight for us as we spent 40 minutes floating in serenity feeling the weight of zero gravity. It’s equivalent to several hours of sleep!

• 1 Infinity Pool
• 1 Salt Water Floating Pool – Kalla Treatment
• 3 Restaurants
• Indoor and Outdoor Lounges
• Several Treatment rooms

Nordik Spa-Nature  is planning a hotel on premises in the future and I would highly recommend a night there after your day at the spa. Read about our full experience here:   Pure Bliss at Nordik Spa-Nature

Best Place for Ottawa Sunset

16. sunset from andaz hotel.

People are always looking for the best views when visiting a city and the Andaz Hotel in the ByWard Market has one of the best sunset views in Ottawa. Out of all the hotels in Ottawa, this one got its sunset terrace right.

Try one of their signature cocktails and enjoy the view over the ByWard Market from their floor to ceiling windows indoors or from the outdoor patio. Visit The Hyatt Andaz for reservations and information or compare prices on TripAdvisore

17. La Terrasse

La Terrasse is located inside the Chateau Laurier and overlooks the locks of the Rideau Canal. It offers a stunning view of the Parliament Buildings, the canal and Ottawa River. You can enjoy cocktails, patio food, and a pleasant atmosphere. This shaded patio at Chateau Laurier is another excellent spot to watch the sunset.

18. John Ceprano Rocks

This park on the river houses Muskoka Chairs overlooking the water to view the unique and picturesque John Ceprano Rocks. Artist, John Ceprano works on his display throughouth the summer and is a very friendly guy. He’s happy to talk with you and share his vision for all the world to post on Instagram.

19. Nepean Point

This park is famous for its gorgeous view of the Ottawa Skyline and the Alexandra Bridge reaching over the Ottawa River. We highly recommend walking across the Alexandra Bridge to Gatineau. It offers beautiful views of the Ottawa Parliament Buildings, the river and it is a pleasant stroll. The bridge takes you from Ottawa to the grounds of the Canadian Museum of History in Gatineau. You can then hop on the ferry to take it back to Ottawa.

More Ottawa Attractions

20. canal cruise.

An entertaining way to learn about the history of the Rideau Canal is to take a Canal Cruise from Chateau Laurier to Dow’s Lake. The tours last about an hour and a half and pass landmarks such as City Hall, National Arts Centre, Canadian Museum of Nature, the TD Centre and Lansdowne Park.

In the winter in Ottawa you can skate along this same route. See our Best Things to do in Ottawa in Winter. For more information visit Rideau  Canal Cruises

21. ByWard Market

It’s on every list of the best things to do in Ottawa that you’ll find on the Internet and with good reason. The Byward Market is one of Canada’s oldest public markets dating back to 1826. It was started by Lt-Col. John By who helped build the Rideau Canal. The ByWard Market is a bustling place by day and night with shops restaurants and boutiques.

22. Mosaiculture

Mosaiculture caught our eye when searching photographs of Ottawa in Summer. This spectacular display of 48  massive floral sculptures will inspire and awe. Located on the banks of Gatineau, it is a wonderful stop to spend a couple of hours taking in the artistry and design. Update: Mosaic culture is no longer happening in Ottawa, but I left the photograph because it is so beautiful and I want them to bring it back!

23. Laval Street in Gatineau

While in Gatineau you must go to Laval Street for a cocktail. Today it has been transformed into a trendy street filled with patios and even an art installation of colourful umbrellas hanging from the buildings.

Where to Eat and Drink in Ottawa

24. riviera restaurant.

Voted as one of the best restaurants in Canada by enRoute Magazine, the Riviera Restaurant is the place to eat! A popular eatery for politicians, it is located on Sparks Street, Ottawa’s pedestrian street across from Parliament Hill. It’s known for its signature cocktails and we all made sure to have a round of these works of art. From Mint Juleps to Manhattan, they’ve got it all.

The menu changes daily, but there are plenty of choices for vegetarians and pescatarians as well as full-on meat eaters. See their  Website for details

25. Whalesbone

Owned and operated by my college roommate’s brother, Whales Bone has made quite a name for itself in Ottawa. With two locations, it’s a popular spot for locals. Known for its oysters, it didn’t disappoint.

Located on Bank Street and Elgin Street, this place is a must for seafood lovers. See the menu and make reservations at  TheWhalesBone.com

26. Chateau Laurier

Wilfred’s in the Fairmont Chateau Laurier has long been considered the best restaurant in Ottawa. The newly renovated Zoe’s is a more relaxed atmosphere in a stylish setting. It’s still grand and elegant with crown moulding and high ceilings, but it has stepped effortlessly into the 21st century.

27. Tavern on the Falls

Did you know Ottawa has its own waterfalls? They aren’t exactly huge, but they are picturesque. The Rideau Falls are where the Rideau River empties into the Ottawa River and you can take in the view on the patio of Tavern on the Falls. Famous for its gourmet hot dogs, Tavern on the Falls is a nice escape from the city where you can enjoy a beer or even a glass of bubbly while taking in the waterfront views.

28. Brig Pub

The Brig Pub is an excellent escape in the ByWard Market with a very cool patio in the back. The patio is so hidden you won’t even know it’s there. It has an extensive menu of pub food, but it also goes beyond the pub offering delicious choices like Fish Tacos, mac and blue cheese, duck confit poutine and falafel and avocado wraps. Check out  the Brig Pub  for menu and details.

Easy Ways to Pass the Time in Ottawa

29. bike or walk along the canal.

There are plenty of walking trails in Ottawa along the Rideau Canal and the Ottawa River. Each path is pedestrian friendly taking you on a stroll through history and beauty.

30. Walk Across the Alexandra Bridge

New York has the Brooklyn Bridg e that is pedestrian friendly, well Ottawa has the Alexandra Bridge. It’s a beautiful walk with a designated pedestrian and cycling path spanning from Ottawa to Gatineau. It links the National Gallery of Ottawa to the Canadian Museum of History in Gatineau offering excellent skyline views as you cross the river.

31. Ottawa Monuments

Like most capital cities around the world, Ottawa has a lot of monuments commemorating Canadian history. Walk through the downtown core looking for statues of moments and people that defined from the Valiant’s Memorial, The Peacekeeping Monument, and the Oscar Peterson Statue.

Ottawa Festivals

32. jazzfest to winterlude.

Keep an eye out for the many festivals that happen in Ottawa throughout the year. There are plenty of festivals in Ottawa to attend, our top recommendations are the Jazz Festival, the Tulip Festival and of course the most famous being Winterlude happening in Winter. Neighbouring Montreal has a lot of festivals as well. Read more at Bloomin’ Marvels – The World’s Largest Tulip Festival.

33. Canada Day

It’s a  Canadian Right of passage  to make a pilgrimage to Ottawa for Canada Day. The Festivities take place on Parliament Hill and there is entertainment, water stations, and festivities all week long!

The famous Canadian Snowbirds make appearances throughout the day and a mix of Canadian talent takes to the stage celebrating diversity and inclusion. I don’t think there is a better place to feel an enormous sense of joy than here in Ottawa on Canada Day.

Getting To Ottawa

• Ottawa has an international airport (YOW). Direct flights from downtown Toronto Billy Bishop Airport to Ottawa happen daily on Porter Airlines.
• Trains travel from Toronto Union Station Daily
• Or you can do what we often do, take the 5-hour drive along the 401 to the Ottawa cutoff.
• Ottawa is a two-hour drive from Montreal

When visiting Canada, make sure to include Ottawa on your itinerary. It is one of Canada’s coolest cities offering culture, nature, luxury and adventure to people from around the world.

Ottawa is welcoming and friendly and it’s bilingual. Most people will flip effortlessly through French and English and you never know, you just may run into our Prime Minister. He hangs out a lot around these parts.

Getting Around Ottawa

Aqua Taxi  – Takes you from the Rideau Canal Locks to Gatineau ($3 per person one-way)

Uber i s affordable and an excellent way to get around the city.

• Note  Uber and Lyft operate in Ottawa but not in Quebec,  but if you go across the bridge to Gatineau in Quebec, they do not operate. They will drop you off, but you will have to take a taxi back.

Taxis  – We found taxis to be double the price in Ottawa and don’t recommend taking them.

Car Rental  – For certain places in this list of things to do, a car rental is highly recommended. You only need to rent a car for a day or two of your trip to see everything on this list and then you can walk and uber it anywhere.

Bike Rentals  – Ottawa is a very bike friendly city with plenty of cycling trails and dedicated lanes. There are several rental companies in the city where you can rent a bike for an hour to a week.

Walking  – a lot of the major sites are easily accessible by walking.

Gatineau – Even going over to Gatineau is a pleasant walk across the Alexandra Bridge – It takes about 20 minutes to walk from the Byward Market in Ottawa to the Gatineau Museum of History . The waterfront in Gatineau is worth exploring.

Read More Toronto Travel Tips

• Winterlude Itinerary – The Ultimate Guide to Ottawa
• Ottawa Attractions – 20 Winter Activities to Embrace the Snow
• Places to Visit in Ottawa this Autumn
• 33 Things to do in Ottawa – A Complete Guide to the City
• 15 Awesome Ottawa Museums – What Not to Miss and Why
• Nordik Spa Nature – A Guide to Ottawa’s Luxury Spa Escape
• Ottawa River Rafting

For more information on other Canadian Cities, read our other city guides

• Where to Stay in Toronto – A Guide to the Best Neighborhoods
• Things to do in Toronto – A Guide to the Top Attractions
• Things to do in Niagara Falls
• Montreal Festivals – Celebrate Canada’s Coolest City
• Where to Stay in Montreal – A Guide To The Best Places and Neighborhoods
• Traveling by Via Rail Canada – Toronto to Montreal Train
• Best Things to do in Vancouver
• 25 Best Things to do in Mont Tremblant, Quebec
• The 27 Best Things to do in Quebec City

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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.
• Medjet - Global air medical transport and travel security.

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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8 thoughts on “33 Things to do in Ottawa – A Complete Guide to the City”

Hi Deb and Dave A beautifully written blog once again. Your blogs are a treat to read everytime. I would (again) like to add a few secret places to this wonderful blog of yours.

1. Princess Louise Falls: you won’t believe that there is a waterfall hidden right in the center of sub urban town in Ottawa. It has an amazing hike trail and breathtaking scenic view that you just can’t miss. 2. Dominion Arboretum: if you want to see cherry blossoms in Canada where do you go? To Dominion Arboretum. This park is located at Central Experimental Farm of Agriculture in Ottawa and houses over 10,000 species of flora. The park is used for both experimental study and display to the public.

If you or your readers want to know more about these beautiful but secret places that you can visit in Canada, then hop over to my blog that’ll link to my name.

Happy Traveling 😀

Hi.. Do you know if everything is open, I am planning to visit Ottawa at end of July 2021.

Wow I didn’t know there was so much to do in Ottawa! I’m from Montreal and when I have visited Ottawa last year I was looking for a city guide like this. Thanks, will definately try some of the activities next time!! Natalie

Love this guide to Ottawa! We have added some things to our list to do when we visit again.

Nice will defintely try some. By the way uber do operate in Gatineau (not all areas) but not lyft at all.

This city was really a great spot to visit, the tourist will surely enjoy everything that the Ottawa city can offer.

Nice post. Thanks for sharing pictures and location. All images are Awesome.

Great post the content is good especially I love the way you portray the images. it’s like they say come to visit Ottawa. content is great.

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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.

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35 of the Best Things to Do in Ottawa

Sustainable travel expert, adventure seeker

Toronto, ON, Canada

Ottawa is a place where old Canadian stereotypes come to life: bilingual, hockey-crazed, bike-friendly, outdoorsy, and home to some of the friendliest locals on the planet. Through its sparkling waterways and canals, Ottawa offers the unique opportunity to experience Canada’s rich history — while also proving itself to be a hip, dynamic city.

In recent years, Ottawa has shaken off its “capital” vibes with a vibrant college and start-up scene. Located on the border of English-speaking Ontario and French-speaking Quebec, visiting Ottawa offers the rare opportunity to see both cultural sides of Canada in a single trip. If you’re seeking the perfect itinerary, look no further. Here are 35 of the absolute must-sees in Ottawa:

Skate along the Rideau Canal

Each winter, the Rideau Canal freezes over and becomes the world’s largest skating rink. Stretching 8 km through the heart of Ottawa, the Rideau Canal Skateway is Ontario’s only UNESCO World Heritage Site where you’ll witness students traveling to the pubs, business people commuting to the office, and hand-in-hand couples taking in the winter scenery. Stalls are set up along the canal offering warm beverages, such as hot chocolate and soups.

Take a leap at the Great Canadian Bungee

Just 20 minutes outside of downtown, “The Rock” is an epic 200-foot water dip bungee drop. The 160-foot rebound itself is higher than any other drop in all of the U.S. and Canada! For a safe and thrilling way to experience the drop, head to the Great Canadian Bungee , which is set up on an amphitheater of solid limestone rock, staring below into the deep aqua blue of a spring-fed lagoon. In addition to bungee jumping, they also offer zip lining and rafting to take advantage of this incredible natural playground.

Shine bright at Glowfair 

Glowfair Festival takes the classic summer block party and adds—you guessed it—tons of beaming lights. Each year in June, the city shuts down 10 blocks on the normally-bustling Bank Street for a weekend and sets up two music stages, which feature more than twenty bands and DJs. Among the normal festivities, the festival includes glowing yoga sessions, an enchanted forest, an outdoor gallery, and even an after-hours silent disco. The festival is an energetic combination of light, art, live music, food, and local community. 

Zen out on Parliament Hill

Every Wednesday from May to August, there are free yoga sessions on Parliament Hill . Hosted by Lululemon to promote health and wellness, these gatherings are regularly attended by thousands of all ages and levels (even Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has been known to pop in every now and then). Led by Ottawa’s most beloved local yoga teachers, the hour-long session is the perfect hump day break. So grab a mat and a water bottle and head to Parliament Hill to unleash your inner zen! 

Hit the water with Ottawa City Rafting

There aren’t many cities where you can go whitewater rafting just minutes away from downtown. Ottawa City Rafting offers the magical opportunity of urban whitewater rafting – an adventure to the backdrop of the Parliament buildings and pristine wilderness.

Sleep in a jail cell

Spending the night in prison doesn’t exactly top out the bucket lists of many travelers (or maybe it does?), but the HI Ottawa Jail Hostel could be an exception. Formerly the Carleton County Gaol from 1862 until it was shut down in 1972, the facilities have since been transformed into a youth city hostel. Old jail cells have been converted into accommodation – cell bars, iron doors, and stone walls still intact. You can also spend some time in the solitary confinement and death row spaces where you will hear ghostly stories about the past.

Soak in the holiday spirit at Lansdowne

During the month of December, Lansdowne and the Casino Lac-Leamy Plaza are transformed into a festive wonderland at the Ottawa Christmas Market . There’s no better way to get into the holiday spirit than by strolling under a canopy of lights, enjoying live performances, and savoring seasonal treats and warm drinks from local vendors. Access is free!

Get artsy at the National Gallery of Canada 

Even the site itself is an architectural marvel – a stunning ultra-modern glass dome with prism-like towers and guarded by a giant spider sculpture. There’s no better way to explore the country’s artistic heritage than the National Gallery of Canada , which lies within walking distance from both the ByWard Market and Parliament Buildings. Inside, you will find everything from Canadian classics and European masterpieces to local Indigenous sculptures.

Taste test the best flat donuts (AKA: BeaverTails pastries)

Indulgence, the Canadian way! BeaverTails pastries are the world-famous artisanal donuts that come in endless flavor combinations. The delicious fried-dough pastry is served piping hot and garnished with anything from classic cinnamon and sugar, to nutella, bananas, and icing. The rustic red stalls are easy to notice across the city, especially in the busier parts like the ByWard Market and City Hall.

Shelter from nuclear attacks at the Diefenbunker

Ever wonder what life would be like if a nuclear conflict broke out during the Cold War? Built from 1959 to 1961, the Diefenbunker Museum is a chilling look at a real four-story underground bunker in rural Ottawa. Originally designed to shelter top government officials in the wake of a nuclear attack, it’s now a national historic site and operates as a museum. The tours take you through living quarters, government work spaces, and military spaces filled with vintage maps and first-generation computers. You can even view the designated Prime Minister’s Suite, the War Cabinet, and the Bank of Canada Vault.

Catch a Sens game

What’s a visit to Canada without catching a little puck, eh? The nation’s capital is a pretty hardcore hockey town and the Ottawa Senators are one of seven NHL franchises based in Canada, so you can bet the games get rowdy. There are few things more symbolic with the Great White North than hockey, so taking a visit to the Canadian Tire Centre to catch a live game is a must. 

Explore the Byward Market

In the heart of Ottawa, the By w ard Market is a thriving hub of more than 600 specialty shops, street stalls, bakeries, and restaurants. It’s Canada’s oldest public market, dating back to 1826 (meaning it’s actually older than the country itself). During summer, you can find fresh fruit, vegetables, and flowers on the street, which complement the main market hall. By the evening, the market is filled with street performers, catering to those visiting the rustic taverns and fine dining establishments. 

Catch an indie flick at the iconic Mayfair Theatre

Film buffs will love the Mayfair Theatre , the city’s oldest active movie house that primarily showcases independent, second-run, and cult classic films. Inside, the atmospheric cinema has an old school feel to it. Think faux balconies draped in rich fabric and medieval-style wrought iron lamps.

Attend an after hours dance party at the Canadian Museum of Nature

The Canadian Museum of Nature is a fun visit in its own right, but Nature Nocturne brings it to another level. Situated in an incredible heritage castle, the monthly event allows guests to roam the museum after hours, partake in interactive themed activities with friends, and enjoy three dance floors – each with a different vibe. So grab some drinks and dance the night away under giant dinosaur fossils and animal exhibitions. 

Relax at Gatineau Park

A short trip across the river and into Quebec lies the sprawling Gatineau Park — the largest green space in the entire Ottawa-Gatineau region. It’s the second most visited among the national parks in Canada , comprising more than 361 square miles of unique biodiversity, lookout points, lakes, and forests. From hiking trails and nature spotting to picnics by the lake, Gatineau Park has something to satisfy all outdoor enthusiasts.

Support local businesses in Hintonberg

Well off the beaten path, Hintonburg is a small gem that’s increasingly known for its cute cafes and family-run restaurants. Here, you will find some of the city’s best independent businesses, such as Art-is-in-Bakery , SuzyQ Doughnuts , and Stella Luna Gelato Cafe . Ottawa’s latest “it” area is also home to many creatives for its galleries and craft shops, as well as photography and music studios.

Test your luck at the Casino du Lac-Leamy

Another landmark that’s just across the border in Quebec (15 minutes from downtown Ottawa), the Casino du Lac-Leamy always makes for a fun night out. The extravagant casino contains six separate sections with all your usual suspects: poker, blackjack, roulette, slots, and more. If you’re not the gambling type, take to the party at either Bar 7, Bacchus cigar lounge, or ALÉA Nightclub, which features live music bands or DJs on Friday and Saturday nights.

Embrace winter at the Winterlude Festival

For three weeks every February, the famous Winterlude Festival combines some cold weather fun with Canada’s artistic and cultural diversity. Expect to see mind-blowing ice sculptures, snow playgrounds, friendly mascots, hot chocolate stalls, and dazzling fireworks – a true winter wonderland. Don’t forget to bundle up!

Take to the skies in a vintage biplane

The Canadian Aviation & Space Museum is a fun experience in itself with many model planes to view and stories to hear. The highlight, however, is a ride in a vintage biplane that allows you to see Ottawa from the skies. The bomber dates back to the 1930s and has an open cockpit (flying helmet and goggles included!). Not only will you marvel at the beauty of downtown Ottawa, but you can also choose between specialized routes, including the Parliament Hill, the Ottawa River, Gatineau Hills, and even an eco-tour through the countryside

Go pub hopping along Elgin Street

Just a stone’s throw away from the bustling ByWard Market and packed Bank Street lies Elgin Street, the home of some of Ottawa’s most storied drinking holes. Filled with many classic British pubs and trendy eateries, this laid-back street is still in the heart of the action, yet feels far off the beaten tourist path. Popular pubs along the route include Sir John A , Lieutenant’s Pump , and Deacon Brodies .

Celebrate spring with the Canadian Tulip Festival

Following WWII, Queen Juliana of the Netherlands gifted Ottawa 100,000 tulip bulbs to show her gratitude for sheltering her during the invasion of the Netherlands. She also promised to make this annual gift for the rest of her life to show her lasting appreciation. Now,  the Canadian Tulip Festival is one of Ottawa’s signature events, taking place in May when the winter is behind us and the flowers are in full bloom. For 10 days, the canal banks, public squares, and green spaces come to life across the city. Commissioner’s Park and Major’s Hill Park are where you will find the main festivities, where several million tulips spring to life, accompanied by fireworks and street performers. 

Head to the rooftop for sunset drinks

Harsh winters tend to give Canadians an appreciation for warm weather, so it’s no surprise most patios in Ottawa are packed during the summer months. The recent surge in rooftop drinks has really taken over the city – and even better at sunset! El Camino is a popular taco spot with an upbeat rooftop terrace, while Bazille is another with direct views of the Rideau Falls. If you’re feeling spiffy, head to the Andaz Ottawa ByWard Market to find incredible 16th-floor, open-air views.

Explore the buildings at Parliament Hill

The Parliament Buildings are a collection of Victorian-era sandstone buildings sitting pretty atop a 50-meter hill above the Ottawa River. Guided tours are offered in the chambers, but the outdoor square remains the city’s heart and soul. On any given day, you will find community-led events, marching protesters, or simply students hanging out. The grassy area is patrolled by Canadian mounted police (“mounties”) in the summer and you can also observe the ceremonial changing of the guard each morning.  

Bonus tip: For killer sunsets, head to the back of the hill where you’re treated to a great lookout point of the river below (and one of the best photo ops in the city). 

Jam out at Ottawa Bluesfest

If you’re a concert goer, there’s no better time to visit the nation’s capital than during Ottawa Bluesfest . It’s among Canada’s largest music festivals, regularly hosting more than 200 acts across 10 days. Taking place at LeBreton Flats, Bluesfest is known for its wide array of musical tastes, ranging from the likes of Kanye West, Backstreet Boys, and Red Hot Chili Peppers to local artists trying to make a name for themselves. 

Soak up the sun at Mooney’s Bay

Not many associate Canada with beaches – less Ottawa, which doesn’t find itself close to any major body of water. But Mooney’s Bay is the in-the-know spot to be during the summer months. Here, you will find a secluded beach area with a boardwalk lined by classic beach bars and hamburger joints. The supervised beach is popular among groups of friends who come to relax under the sun, but also among swimmers, rowers, and volleyball players (each year, the HOPE Volleyball Summerfest Tournament for charity draws thousands).

Stand in awe at Rideau Falls

Want to see one of the best photos ops in the city? Head to Rideau Falls Park . This is the spot where the Rideau River empties into the Ottawa River, with the twin falls divided by Green Island. The falls takes its name from the French word for “curtain” due to its magnificent flowing appearance, which freezes over completely in the winter.

Hit Ottawa’s craft brewery circuit with Brew Donkey Tours

Ottawa has a sizable craft beer scene, offering a diverse collection of local breweries each with its own eclectic personality. Beer lovers should check out the popular tour from Brew Donkey . Guests tour big and small breweries across the Ottawa region, including Beau’s, Kichesippi, Les Brasseurs du Temps, and more. The public tours run every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday year-round, whereas private tours are also available to reserve. Just be sure you’re ready to taste new and exciting beers!

Enjoy the sound and light show at Parliament Hill

Taking place each summer night after the sun has set, the Northern Lights is a free 30-minute light and sound show that’s projected onto the backdrop of the Parliament Buildings. The immersive audiovisual journey is not only a stunning display, but it also takes viewers on a guided trip through Canada’s history. So step back in time and enjoy the colorful show!

Blow off some steam at Le Nordik Spa-Nature

Located in the scenic village of Old Chelsea, Quebec (15 minutes from downtown Ottawa), Le Nordik Spa-Nature is one of the world’s most unique oases. It’s the largest spa in North America, focusing on thermotherapy and relaxation techniques, all set to the gorgeous natural backdrop of Gatineau Park. Here, you can enjoy 10 pools, nine saunas, endless indoor and outdoor lounges (yes, even during winter), bars and restaurants, accommodation, and a long list of specialized treatments.

Celebrate Canada Day in the Nation’s Capital

Ottawa isn’t normally atop the bucket list of typical Canadian travel destinations, but as the nation’s capital, the annual Canada Day festivities spare no expense. The majority of the action occurs on Parliament Hill where musical stages are set up for numerous concerts throughout the week. Leading up to July 1st, you can also expect family activities, live entertainment, and local vendors, topped off by a spectacular fireworks display.

Satisfy your coffee cravings 

Ottawa is increasingly developing its own identity as a hip, indie city (in contrast to its provincial counterpart in Toronto), and its local coffee roasters are a great example of this. These cafes provide unique and rich flavors that you simply can’t find at a chain. You can also throw in cozy atmospheres (warm spots to kick back during winter) and totally Instagrammable backdrops. You’re truly spoiled for choice in Ottawa, from Little Victories Coffee Roasters in the upscale Glebe neighborhood to Happy Goat Coffee , Equator Coffee Roasters and Poppa Bean Coffee Roastery . 

Cruise along the Rideau Canal

There’s no better way to experience both the natural and urban setting of Ottawa than via a Rideau Canal cruise . From the unique vantage point of the sparkling waterways that dissect the city, you can marvel at all of Ottawa’s historic sights, including the Château Laurier, City Hall, National Arts Centre, TD Centre, and Lansdowne Park. The passenger vehicle also runs on 100% electricity – the only of its kind in North America!

Chill out at Major’s Hill Park

Major’s Hill Park is a tranquil oasis in the middle of Ottawa. The green space is located at the intersection of the National Gallery of Canada, ByWard Market, and the Parliament Buildings, making for the perfect stopover to enjoy the picturesque scenery. Major’s Hill Park regularly hosts outdoor events in the summer, but it’s also ideal for everyday picnics, hanging out with friends, and killer sunsets.

Spend an afternoon at Morrison’s Quarry

There’s tons of adrenaline-pumping summer fun to be had at  Morrison’s Quarry . The incredible limestone quarry is known for its green-blue waters, which reach a maximum depth of 139 feet. The water is so clear that you can see up to 100 feet below the surface! Morrison’s Quarry is a hidden swimming hole where many people come to hang out with friends, but it’s also a popular site among scuba divers  with underwater planes, tugboats, and car wrecks available to explore.

Discover Canada’s wartime past at the War Museum

The Canadian War Museum is the best place to dive into Canada’s military history through artifacts, personal stories, artwork, photographs, and interactive exhibitions. Here, you can see everything from authentic propaganda posters to tanks, weapons, and even Hitler’s limousine. 

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12 Best Things to do in Ottawa, Ontario

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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Home » North America » Ottawa

11 BEST Places to Visit in Ottawa (2024)

Located alongside the Ottawa River, the Canadian capital of Ottawa is one of the quickest growing cities in the Americas. The bilingual city has a blend of cultures, thanks to the large numbers of immigrants from across the world who have made the city home, and it’s known for its high-tech industry. The nation’s capital since the 1850s, today it has many museums, art galleries, monuments, and attractions, and it has excellent shopping, dining, and nightlife venues.

Ottawa is a large city with a vast metropolitan sprawl. There’s an abundance of things to see and do and finalising your Ottawa itinerary can be tricky. First-time visitors may be overwhelmed by the number of choices and spend ages trying to plan their trip.

There’s no need to give yourself a headache, though, planning your Ottava vacation. Our dedicated team of travel researchers has compiled the ultimate list of the best places to visit in Ottawa for the very best time in the Canadian capital. With something for all tastes and ages, you’re sure to have a fabulous time!

Warning! Some of the best places to visit in Ottawa might shock you!

NEED A PLACE QUICK? HERE’S THE BEST NEIGHBORHOOD IN OTTAWA:

These are the best places to visit in ottawa, faq on the best places to visit in ottawa.

Sparks Street

Sparks Street is located in the heart of Ottawa. It is a pedestrian street, so you will see no cars running here. Yet, the area is one of the most vibrant parts of Ottawa

• Shop til you drop at one of the numerous outlets of the street
• Pay your respects to fallen soldiers at the National War Memorial
• Learn about the history and politics of Canada at Parliament Hill

HALT! FIRE! Just kidding, we just wanted to get your attention before you scroll any further because, in order to visit the best places, you’re going to need accommodation first. Check out where to stay in Ottawa and then, you may continue on down the page. Enjoy! This city really is a hidden gem!

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#1 – Parliament Buildings – A great place to see in Ottawa if you love architecture

• Impressive building
• See parliamentary debates
• Beautiful views

Why it’s awesome: The striking Canadian Parliament Buildings are among the major landmarks in Ottawa. Perched atop a hill overlooking the city, the glorious neo-Gothic buildings are eye-catching and photogenic. Home to the nation’s government, visitors can take free tours to learn more about the workings of parliament and to admire the splendid buildings from the inside. The expansive grounds are beautiful too, and the elevated position provides splendid views. Varied events take place throughout the year and there are large annual Canada Day celebrations there too. The Parliament Buildings are some of the most famous places in Ottawa.

What to do there: Start your tour in the modern Visitor Welcome Centre at the House of Commons, then contrast the newer architecture with the gorgeous historic building of the Senate. You can watch live debates in various parts of parliament, watching Canadian governance in progress. In the summer months, between June and August, watch the British-style Changing the Guard ceremony, with soldiers marching to a band. Seeing the Northern Lights Sound and Show is another Ottawa must do in the summer, while in the winter you can see stunning winter scenes projected onto large walls.

#2 – National Gallery of Canada – A great place to visit in Ottawa if you are alone/traveling solo

• Modern architecture
• Striking art
• Creative vibe
• Diverse collections

Why it’s awesome: The National Gallery of Canada is a modern architectural treasure. Built-in the 1980s, the building uses lots of glass and the appearance is angular. The gallery itself dates back to the 1880s, having first been housed on Parliament Hill. There’s a strong focus on Canadian art, though the gallery also contains works from Europe and other parts of the Americas. There are pieces from various periods of time—the modern collection by Andy Warhol is especially eye-catching.

What to do there: Admire the gleaming modern building from the outside before entering inside to feast your eyes on an abundance of art. One of the most celebrated artworks is called The Death of General Wolfe, by Benjamin West. Other artists on display include Titian, Hans Balding, J.M.W. Turner, Rembrandt, Van Gogh, Cezanne, David Milne, and Gustav Klimt. You can see a rich collection of paintings, sculptures, and other artistic pieces.

#3 – Ottawa Jail Hostel – One of the more unique places to visit in Ottawa!

• Unusual attraction
• Historic air
• Said to be haunted

Why it’s awesome: Ottawa Jail Hostel is one of the quirkiest accommodations in the capital, but people don’t have to be actually staying at the property to be able to take a look back into Ottawa’s more criminal history. The hostel is housed in what was once Carleton County Gaol, usually referred to as Ottawa Gaol. Although the property has been renovated and become of the most modern hostels in Ottawa , many sections have been left as they were in times gone by, including the top floor, which was used as death row.

Built-in the 1860s and once connected to the neighbouring courtroom by tunnel, the prison once housed some of Ottawa’s most fearsome felons. Several executions took place here—it’s no wonder that the site if often said to be haunted! Visiting the hostel is definitely one of the more unusual things to do in Ottawa!

What to do there: Learn more about notorious criminals who were once incarcerated at Ottawa Gaol, including Patrick J. Whelan, who was hanged outside of the jail in February 1869. Feel a shiver down your spine as you uncover the inhumane conditions that prisoners were subjected to within the prison’s walls. Go up to the third floor to peer into the small cells that used to house people convicted to death and see where prisoners spent their final hours while waiting to be executed. Have a drink in the hostel’s themed bar, and listen out for ghostly sounds!

#4 – Notre Dame Basilica – One of the most religious places to see in Ottawa

• Major place of worship
• Splendid art and architecture
• Biggest church in Ottawa
• Spiritual vibe

Why it’s awesome: The stunning Notre Dame Basilica is one of the most religious hotspots in Ottawa. The Catholic cathedral is listed as a National Historic Site of Canada. Standing on the site of an older wooden church, construction of the present cathedral began in the 1840s. Due to changes during the construction process, the cathedral features various architectural designs, including neo-classical and neo-Gothic. It is filled with striking details and lots of religious art. Impressive both inside and out, the photogenic place of worship is Ottawa’s biggest church. Devotees can attend services in either English or in French.

What to do there: Marvel at the stunning pale façade, complete with its unusual tin-covered steeples, and listen out for the pealing of the cathedral’s large bells. Enter inside the majestic building to be greeted by more visual pleasures. The gorgeous stained glass windows create shafts of colourful light, depicting scenes from the lifetime of Jesus Christ and the Virgin Mary. Gaze in awe at the fine mahogany carvings by Philippe Parizeau, be wowed by the detailed sculptures by Louis-Philippe Hébert, see the large organ, and soak up the tranquil and spiritual vibe.

#5 – Little Italy – A must-see for foodies!

• Diverse cuisine
• Italian ambience
• Independent stores
• Pretty park

Why it’s awesome: Little Italy is one of the most vibrant neighbourhoods in Ottawa. The place where early Italian immigrants first made their home in the early 1900s, it still has a strong Italian ambience today. The area has a wealth of small and interesting independently owned and family-run stores, as well as numerous eateries and regular exciting events. It’s one of the best places to eat in Ottawa, with a huge selection of Italian restaurants in addition to establishments that dish up fare from across the world.

What to do there: Take a stroll along Preston Street, soaking up the European vibe and admiring the interesting street art. Call in to one of the cute boutiques to browse fashions, art, homewares, and more. Stop for a bite to eat in one of the tempting restaurants or cafes—whether you fancy hearty Italian favourites like pizza and pasta, or food from India, Thailand, Japan, Korea, Greece, Turkey, or somewhere else, there’s sure to be something to appeal to your taste buds. Relax in the green park around Dow Lake, pop into artists’ studios, take a scenic boat ride along the Rideau Canal, and catch a show at The Gladstone.

#6 – Nepean Point – A nice quiet place to see in Ottawa

• Terrific views
• Peaceful atmosphere
• Interesting statue
• Lesser-visited spot

Why it’s awesome: Often overlooked in favour of other lookout points around the city, Nepean Point is a terrific spot from which to enjoy splendid city views. Visitors can see many of the major landmarks in Ottawa while enjoying the peaceful atmosphere and lush surroundings. There’s a small amphitheater at the peak as well as a statue of Samuel de Champlain, a famous explorer from France.

What to do there: Follow the walkway up the hill and enjoy the serene vibe and great views. Snap a picture of the 1915 statue at the top of the hill and spot city sights from above like the Ottawa River, the Parliament Buildings, Gatineau Park, and more. Pause for a while to savour the peace and quiet away from the crowds.

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#7 – ByWard Market – A great place in Ottawa if you love to shop!

• Long history
• Variety of goods
• Places to eat
• Entertainment

Why it’s awesome: One of the top places for some retail therapy when you travel to Ottawa, ByWard Market is also a great place for history, heritage, culture, dining, entertainment, and watching local life. Located conveniently in the heart of the city, the market can trace its roots back to the 1820s. Today, the eclectic market still retains something of a historic vibe while attracting a diversity of people from all walks of life and of all ages. The market operates all throughout the year and there are additional open-air stalls during the summer months.

What to do there: Wander through the large and lively market and peruse a wide range of goods on sale. If you look closely you can still spot the early French and Irish influences around the market. Pick up goods like souvenirs, clothing, cute home items, toys, books, music, artisan goods, and more, and, in the warmer months, see stalls selling colourful fresh-cut flowers and an array of tasty fresh produce. Stop for a bite to eat in one of the restaurants, have a drink in one of the nearby bars, and watch buskers performing a variety of talents on the streets.

#8 – Chinatown – A perfect place to visit in Ottawa if you are on a budget!

• Asian influences
• Global cuisine
• Photo opportunities
• Cultural insights

Why it’s awesome: Despite the name, Ottawa’s Chinatown is home to people from various countries around Asia. There’s an interesting blend of Asian cultures to discover, with businesses that sell imported goods and eateries that serve global menus. From Vietnamese and Thai to Japanese, Filipino, and Korean, it’s a top place to travel the world without leaving Canadian soil. The current Chinatown was established in the 1960s, replacing older areas with large Asian communities. It’s an easy area to explore by foot and walking around and soaking up the sites is a great way to spend an afternoon without needing to spend much money.

What to do there: Pass through the large and decorative archway at the entrance to Chinatown and walk along Somerset Street to absorb the Asian influences. You’ll see traditional religious and decorative items, such as lanterns, shrines, and statues, and there are stores that sell goods that can be difficult to find in other parts of the city. Pop into a traditional herbalist shop, have a massage, buy global ingredients, and savour cuisine from across the world. In the evening, why not hit up a karaoke bar? Alternatively, you’ll find plenty of other bars for night time fun.

#9 – Gatineau Park – A beautiful outdoor place to visit in Ottawa

• Outdoor fun
• Nature and wildlife
• Diverse activities

Why it’s awesome: The huge and diverse Gatineau Park is a playground for locals and tourists. A great place to enjoy time outdoors, there are varied leisure activities and attractions. Family-friendly, the expansive park is also one of the best natural attractions in Ottawa for couples and groups of friends, and there’s something to enjoy at all times of the year. The park covers some 361 square kilometres (139 square miles), so there’s sure to never be a dull moment exploring! The park has a long history and there’s lots of nature and wildlife to spot.

What to do there: Start your visit at the Visitor Centre to find out the wide array of things to do and see within the park. In the summer, enjoy long walks, cycling, rock climbing, canoeing, kayaking, roller skating, swimming, and sunbathing, and get active in the winter with cross-country skiing and Nordic walking.

Relax with a picnic on one of the lakeside beaches, including at Brown Lake, Carman Lake, Philippe Lake, Meech Lake, and Taylor Lake. Look out for interesting wildlife, like deer, beavers, and birds. Wolves and bears live in remoter parts of the park. Tackle King Mountain, the highest peak in the park, see ruins from the mining era, have thrills at the aerial rope course, visit the country estate of Kingsmere, watch a fabulous sunset, and spend evenings camping under the stars.

#10 – Canadian Museum of History – A fascinating educational place to visit in Ottawa

• Learn about the country’s past
• Family-friendly
• Wide array of exhibits
• Major cultural venue

Why it’s awesome: The Canadian Museum of History takes visitors on a journey through time to learn more about the nation’s early years and developments up to the present day. The fascinating museums seeks to showcase Canada’s peoples and cultural diversity, and it is home to a huge selection of exhibits, artifacts, and displays. Founded in the mid-1850s, it is one of the oldest cultural attractions in North America. It is also an awesome place to visit in Ottawa with kids, thanks to the inclusion of the separate Children’s Museum. Visiting the museum is an Ottawa must-do for most visitors.

What to do there: Discover around 20,000 years of Canadian history as you see interesting collections related to traditions, ethnology, archaeology, art, and folk heritage. Take time to fully appreciate the displays in the three permanent galleries, and don’t miss seeing the ever-changing temporary collections for even greater insights.

Take younger members of the family to the Children’s Museum, where they can learn tons of new things and have a go at various activities. Be awed as you enter the impressive Grand Hall, complete with a gigantic colour photograph and huge window. Marvel at the large collection of totem poles, reconstructed houses, and items such as sporting equipment, tools, statues, pottery, furniture, skeletons, and much, much more. Pick up gifts in the souvenir shop and watch an engaging show in the cinema.

#11 – The Diefenbunker – One of Ottawa’s coolest historical sites!

• Cold War history
• Underground tours
• Historic films

Why it’s awesome: The Diefenbunker (named after a former Canadian prime minister) is one of the coolest things to do when visiting Ottawa, appealing to old and young alike. It’s also one of the most unusual things to do in Ottawa. A legacy from the Cold War, the underground bunker was at the heart of Canada’s nuclear defence systems. Now it is a National Historic Site and a museum about the Cold War. Built in the mid-1900s, the aim was to protect governmental functions if a nuclear war broke out. Visitors can take a tour for chilling insights into the world’s past, and tours are available in both English and French.

What to do there: Descend underground and back in time to the Cold War era, exploring areas designed as safe and secure workspaces for government workers, the vault of the Bank of Canada, the Prime Minister’s Suite, workspaces for skilled cryptographers, and more. Watch movies about the Cold War, and shudder when you realise just how close to the brink of catastrophe the world once was. There’s various memorabilia to see and you can buy souvenirs in the gift shop.

Get insured for your trip to Ottawa!

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

Find out what people want to know about the best places to visit in Ottawa

Is Ottawa worth visiting?

With incredible culture, some really friendly and laid-back locals, and plenty of places to visit, Ottawa is more than worth a visit. It’s one of the fastest cities in North America so be prepared for some epic attractions.

Which places can you visit in Ottawa for free?

Check out these free places to visit in Ottawa: – Chinatown – Gatineau Park – Parliament Buildings

What places in Ottawa can you visit today?

Not all of Ottawa’s places are open every day. Check out GetYourGuide for some of the best tours and attractions you can explore today. For a more local vibe, have a look at Airbnb experiences .

Are there any good places to visit in Ottawa during the weekend?

If you’re in Ottawa over the weekend, don’t miss out on these cool places to visit: – National Gallery of Canada – Little Italy – ByWard Market

Explore the best places to visit in Ottawa

Tour the diverse museums in Ottawa, with highlights including the Canadian War Museum, the Science and Technology Museum, the National Gallery, and the Bank of Canada Currency Museum. Soak up the views from the Alexandra Bridge, walk alongside the Rideau Canal (and skate along it in the winter when it’s frozen solid), and visit Rideau Hall. Catch a sports game—from hockey and football to rugby and basketball, there’s something for all. The Gothic Fairmont Château Laurier (now a fancy hotel) is a great place to visit in Ottawa for couples, and Major’s Hill Park is a top place to unwind and take it easy.

Work your way through this list of the best places to visit in Ottawa for a memorable vacation in the exciting Canadian capital.

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

Sheridan Cahoon

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What’s the best way to get round Ottawa

Hi Caroline,

Public transport, foot, taxi, e-scooters!

Have a great time!

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29 Fantastic Things To Do In Ottawa, Canada

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Here Are Some Of Our Favourite Things To Do In Ottawa, Canada!

Oh, Ottawa – our country’s capital. Ottawa is one of those cities that you might think is straightforward to discover.

However, once you get there, you uncover history, nature, and lots of other activities and realize you should have booked more time! Aside from the big attractions, there are a lot of free (and often underrated) things to do, too!

We really like Ottawa. Having grown up in Ontario, Eric has visited numerous times and now Lisa has been to Ottawa many times – in winter, fall, and summer!

We love visiting Ottawa in any season – it makes a nice weekend getaway whether you’re skating on the Rideau Canal or soaking up the sun on an Ottawa River cruise.

So, here’s our list of things to do in Ottawa for any season. The city is packed with some of the best things to do and see in Ontario . We’ve also included a few other tidbits of information to help you plan your trip to Ottawa.

Ottawa Quick Guide

Best Time to Visit:  Summer for nice weather, boat cruises & festivals, fall for lovely colours, winter is cold (but skating on the Rideau Canal!)

Getting Around:  Many attractions are accessible on foot, Ottawa Transport (OC Transpo) for buses and light rail. Bike rental/bike tour is also a great option!

Top Things to Do:  Explore Parliament Hill, Ottawa River Cruises , The Rideau Canal Cruise , explore ByWard Market for food & more!

Where to Stay:   ByWard Blue Inn or The Business Inn are popular accommodations, Alt Hotel for boutique hotel downtown, and the Chateau Laurier for upscale luxury.

Table of Contents

Things to Do in Ottawa, Ontario

Let’s start with the top things to do in Ottawa, Ontario based on our experience. You’ll find a good mix of historical sites, a variety of tours (bike, walking, or boat), places to eat and drink, areas to explore nature, and much more!

There are lots of great tours and activities in Ottawa including boat cruises, bike tours, and museum tickets. You can explore top activities in Ottawa on both Viator and GetYourGuide .

Keep in mind that some places or activities are only open/available during the warmer months. For example, the boat tours do not run in the winter (usually they run from May to October). So we will mention winter alternatives, where applicable!

Visit Parliament Hill

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

If you want to learn all about Canadian democracy and a little bit of history, you can visit Parliament Hill.

With the Centennial Flame always burning, there are plenty of points of interest to check out.

The buildings themselves are called the Centre Block, East Block, and West Block. The Centre Block is the main building and houses the House of Commons.

Behind the block, facing the Ottawa River, you’ll find the enormous Library of Parliament (shown below).

The West Block is currently being used to house the House of Commons while the Centre Block is under renovation.

The East Block is renowned for its Victorian High Gothic architecture which – along with the Parliamentary Library – is the most original of the buildings on Parliament Hill from its first construction in 1859.

The grounds are much more than just government – there are even fireworks at Parliament and festivals with lights in the summer.

As you can see in the first photo, there was a huge Canada Day celebration on the front lawn with a stage and everything. In the winter, there is usually a skating rink set up on the lawn for people to enjoy!

Aside from the buildings and enjoying the sun on the green grass, you can wander the grounds and check out the statues, great views, and other significant points of interest.

There’s a great summer pavilion for a rest and some views of the river, too!

Due to the renovations, tours of the Centre Block aren’t running, but the other tours are running! If you want to reserve free tickets, check out the official Parliament website here .

If you want a guide to tell you lots of great information about Parliament Hill, you might consider a Private Tour with a Local Guide .

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Explore ByWard Market

Address: ByWard Market Area , Ottawa

If you are in Ottawa, you have to explore the ByWard Market area. The historic market area is filled with some shops, restaurants and bars.

If you want food, you’ll find local restaurants, street food, and sweet treats. If you want to shop, you’ll find artisan crafts, boutique shops, and local goods.

Explore the tastes of the famous Market on a ByWard Market Food Tour !

If you want a drink, you’ll find lively clubs, authentic pubs, and even live music. We wrote a whole guide on Ottawa Pubs with a section focusing on ByWard!

Basically – wander the ByWard Market area during the day and then again during the evening to experience a different side of the city!

Visit The Rideau Canal + Bytown Museum

Address of Bytown Museum: 1 Canal Ln, Ottawa, ON K1P 5P6

As Ontario’s only UNESCO World Heritage Site in the “Cultural” category, the Rideau Canal is also a must-see.

Built back in the 19th century, this 202 km long system of waterways, lakes, and locks was created before Canada was even a country!

The Canal was originally built to connect Ottawa with Kingston, Ontario – Canada’s original capital on Lake Ontario.

These days, the Rideau Canal makes for a great adventure in the summer season or the winter.

In Ottawa, a popular area to visit is the Ottawa Lockstation – a series of 8 locks. Here, you’ll find the Bytown Museum , which walks you through the historic past of the waterway and the area.

The Rideau Canal in Summer

In the nice weather, the Canal is popular with recreational boaters. If you don’t have a boat, you can walk the Canal – there are green spaces and paths through much of the Ottawa section of the Canal.

You can also hop on the popular Rideau Canal Cruise if you want to explore the waterway without the hassle!

The Canal eventually dumps into Dow’s Lake, which you can also check out. There are bridges – like the Corktown Footbridge (shown further down in this post) – that cross over the Canal and make for great photos, too!

The Rideau Canal in Winter

In winter, the Rideau Canal in Ottawa becomes the famous skating rink – one of the longest and largest (by total surface area) in the world. In fact, skating on the Rideau is one of the top things to do in Ontario in the winter !

You’ll find sweet treats like BeaverTails (a deep-fried pastry shaped to look like a beaver’s tail and covered with whatever you want) and Maple Syrup snow candy (Maple Taffy)!

Eric has skated on the Rideau Canal before but we haven’t been together so we will go and enjoy it soon!

You can rent skates if you are visiting – but if you are renting, go early because they can and do run out! You can learn more about the Rideau Canal Skateway here .

If you are visiting Ottawa in the winter, you also might be interested in a tour on a festive Vintage Bus !

Do a Boat Cruise/Tour of the Ottawa River

Address for Lady Dive Tour: Leaves from the end of Sparks Street near Elgin Street

Speaking of water, if seeing the city from land isn’t exciting enough, you can always opt for a boat cruise on the Ottawa River!

Just north of the city (with amazing views of the Parliament), you’ll find the Ottawa River sandwiched between Ontario and Hull, Quebec. You can check out the Lady Dive Tour we did here .

The river is known for its many islands, bridges, and Rideau Falls – another great photo spot you can check out. In any case, you can do a guided boat tour to learn all about the river and the city.

We ended up booking the Lady Dive Tour bus – the “Amphibus” that drives you around on land and then drives into the water as a boat!

We liked the tour – it was informative and cool to see the city from the river. Here’s the Lady Dive Boat Tour we did .

However, there are other boat cruises you can do, too. If you are more into boats that don’t drive into the water, this boat tour with Capital Cruises leaves from near the locks right in downtown Ottawa!

There is also another company – Paul’s Boat Line – that will take you out for an Ottawa River Cruise on the “Paula D.” – their double-decker boat. The trip is similar to other cruises out on the river with the inclusion of seeing Rideau Falls!

Lastly, there’s another boat tour you can do – this one is on a Tiki boat ! This floating boat/bar is Hawaiian-themed and you can enjoy the scenic views of the Ottawa River with a smaller group and a driver/bartender!

Check Out the National Gallery of Canada

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

Known for the giant spider out front and the fact that you’ll see lots of Canadian art, the National Gallery of Canada is one of those must-see places in Ottawa!

Located along the Rideau River between the Royal Canadian Mint and the ByWard Market area, this beautiful glass building is full of amazing art created by Canadians (and a few other nations) over the decades.

With an inner courtyard and cafe onsite, you’ll want to budget a few hours!

Explore the City on a Bike Tour

If you’re looking to get a bit of exercise while you’re sightseeing in Ottawa, a bike tour might be a great option for you.

Ottawa is a pretty bike-friendly city when you consider all the paths along the Rideau Canal, along the river in places, and through many quiet neighbourhoods of the regions (especially the Glebe and around Dow’s Lake).

We really like bike tours and have gotten more into them recently when we visit places.

They just make sense: you can cover lots of ground in just a few hours, you usually learn a lot from the local guide, you don’t have to plan the route yourself, and biking is fun – especially when the weather is good!

Luckily for you, Ottawa has a few top-rated companies that offer a variety of bike tours – some long and some shorter – to suit all interests and fitness levels.

Ottawa Bike Tours

• 2-Hour Express Sights Tour
• 3.5-Hour Ottawa Highlights Bike Tour
• Self-Guided Ottawa Bike Tour
• Ottawa Spring Tulip Festival Bike Tour (seasonal)

Of course, you can also just rent bikes in Ottawa and ride around yourself. Escape Bicycle Tours and Rentals – Ottawa and RentABike have downtown locations to serve you well!

Have a Drink at Tavern on the Hill

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

If you’ve had enough history for one day, why not sit back for a pint or a bite to eat at one of Ottawa’s best pubs with (arguably) the best view?

Head to Tavern on the Hill for views over the Ottawa River and the back of Parliament Hill.

We had the chance to visit the park ( Major’s Hill Park ) and lookout near the Tavern on a hot Ottawa day. However, we had already had a beer in ByWard Market so we didn’t get one at the Tavern.

Even though our local connection told us we had to – we’ll have to have a pint there next time! Check out the website for hours and menus here .

Visit the Canadian Museum of History

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

Okay, so this one is technically located in Hull, an area of Gatineau, Quebec – but it’s a pretty popular thing to visit if you are visiting Ottawa.

The Canadian Museum of History showcases over 20,000 years of human history in Canada! Eric went years ago but he’s really interested in going back because the exhibits change all the time.

A highlight is the Grand Hall featuring works from Canada’s Indigenous Peoples. If you want to visit, you can get your Museum of History ticket here .

Visit the Canadian War Museum

Address: 1 Vimy Pl, Ottawa, ON K1A 0M8, Canada

Another popular museum in Ottawa is the Canadian War Museum. Located to the west of Parliament Hill along the Ottawa River, this museum was created in 1880 – but the current modern building is from 2005.

Recounting many times in Canadian military history – from past wars to modern conflicts – the museum is also a place where you learn about the formation of Canadian identity.

If you want to visit, you can get your War Museum entrance ticket here .

See the National War Memorial

Location: 45°25’26.3″N 75°41’43.9″W

As a place for those who have served and fallen in the Canadian military, the National War Memorial is a beautiful place to stop by.

The Ceremonial Guards are there to stand guard at the Memorial and the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.

Originally built in 1939, the Memorial comes front and centre each Remembrance Day when ceremonies are held in Ottawa. The Memorial is very close to Parliament Hill, so it’s easy to stop by for a peek.

Relax in Confederation Park

Location: 45°25’19.5″N 75°41’32.8″W

If you’re looking for a green space to hang out and have a relaxing break without going too far, check out Confederation Park!

Located near the National War Memorial and the Rideau Canal, this space offers a bit of peace and greenery while being located right in the heart of the city!

Discover the Fairmont Château Laurier

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

If you are curious about that massive Gothic Revival-looking building close to the Parliament – that’s the Fairmont Château Laurier! Built back in 1912, you can stay in this historic hotel if you like!

If you just want to wander in, you can head to Zoe’s Lounge – a top spot for upscale lunch, drinks, and even Afternoon Tea with desserts, sandwiches, and more! During the high season, you should make a reservation if you want to stop there for tea.

Shop Along Sparks Street

Address: Sparks Street, Ottawa (downtown close to Parliament Hill)

If you’re in downtown Ottawa, you’ll notice a pedestrian-only street that stretches for ages. This is Sparks Street – and you should definitely check it out!

Credited as being Canada’s first pedestrian mall, Sparks Street is absolutely loaded with restaurants, cafes, souvenir shops, and more.

These days, the street is also home to a number of events and festivals such as the Ottawa Busker Festival!

Go on the Haunted Walk of Ottawa

Address: 46 1/2 Sparks Street, Ottawa, ON K1P 5A8, Canada

If you are looking to explore Ottawa’s spooky past, you might be interested in joining the famous Haunted Walk of Ottawa.

This live guided tour around Ottawa features some of the best ghost stories around – and there are many!

To join the tour, reserve a Haunted Walk spot here (especially in summer) since they are popular!

Cross the Corktown Footbridge

Location: Check Google Maps here

This might be a small thing to do but it’s something Eric was introduced to years ago so we wanted to include it!

You can walk across the Corktown Footbridge. This small bridge spans the Rideau Canal near the University of Ottawa.

While the bridge itself isn’t overly exciting – though very functional – it’s covered in “love locks” which make for a nice photo. The views from the bridge towards the downtown core and the Chateau Laurier also make for a great photo.

In the summer, the still water in the reflective Canal creates great shots. In winter, the skaters pass under the bridge, too!

Overall, it’s quiet and peaceful if you need some time away from the main Ottawa attractions. You can also simply follow the Canal for a long walk back to the centre.

Explore the Canadian Science and Technology Museum

Address: 1867 St Laurent Blvd, Ottawa, ON K1G 5A3, Canada

Renovated and reopened in 2017, this museum’s mandate is to highlight the scientific history of Canada.

With permanent exhibits like the famous “Crazy Kitchen” that plays tricks on your senses, to temporary exhibits and plenty to see along “Artifact Alley”, there’s something for all interests! You can learn all about the museum on their website .

Check out the Library and Archives of Canada

Address: 395 Wellington St, Ottawa, ON K1A 0N4, Canada

The Library and Archives of Canada is a massive building located just down from Parliament.

Tasked with preserving and maintaining Canada’s history and heritage through documents, the LAC is actually the fourth-largest library in the world!

Fun Fact: They have over 20 million books, 24 million photos, and 1 million gigabytes of digital content! That’s a lot!

Most people don’t know that it’s open to the public and you can browse through parts of the collection. You can also do a tour (offered on a limited basis) of the Library and Archives Preservation Centre in Gatineau.

Go to an Ice Hockey Game

What better way to engage in Canadian culture than at an ice hockey game! In Ottawa, you’ve got two teams to choose from – one professional team in the NHL (The Ottawa Senators) and one OHL – Ontario Hockey League – team, the Ottawa 67s.

The Ottawa 67s play hockey at TD Place (the same place where the city’s football team – not soccer, like, Canadian Football – plays). You can learn more here .

Address: TD Place, 1015 Bank St, Ottawa, ON K1S 3W7, Canada

The Ottawa Senators – or the “Sens” – play outside the downtown area in Kanata at the Canadian Tire Centre. As a Toronto Maple Leafs fan, Eric thinks the Sens suck.

To be completely honest they are in a “rebuilt phase” where they actually statistically aren’t amazing.

However, all that tough talk is just in good fun. Hockey is still fun to watch and experience – so visit the Canadian Tire Centre website to look into tickets.

Address: 1000 Palladium Dr, Ottawa, ON K2V 1A5, Canada

Visit Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica

Address: 385 Sussex Dr, Ottawa, ON K1N 1J9, Canada

If you’re exploring behind Parliament Hill and wondering what that shiny thing is behind the National Gallery – you aren’t alone! That’s Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica !

Built as is (kind of) back in 1846, the shiny towers were added later. The basilica is the oldest and largest church in Ottawa and is considered a “minor basilica” – but there’s nothing minor about it.

The spires are covered in tin – a notable detail for French-Canadian churches – which is why it stands out!

You can pop inside to take a look or catch one of the guided tours that are offered during the summer months. The church was designated a National Historic Site in 1990 so it’s worth a look!

Check Out the Canadian Museum of Nature

Address: 240 McLeod St, Ottawa, ON K2P 2R1, Canada

Once called the National Museum of Natural Sciences, the Canadian Museum of Nature is definitely a great museum to check out when you’re in Ottawa.

Eric has been and it was really, really cool! Think of it as Canada’s version of a “Museum of Natural History” you might see in other cities.

Not only does it have a stunning glass atrium, but it also has permanent, and rotating exhibits on butterflies, dinosaurs, plants, and more. You can purchase your Museum of Nature ticket here .

Explore Rideau Hall

Address: 1 Sussex Dr, Ottawa, ON K1A 0A1, Canada

Northeast of downtown Ottawa in the quiet area of New Edinburgh, you’ll find the stately-looking Rideau Hall .

In case you missed it, Canada is still technically tied to Britain (not really, more for show) and so the King needs to have a representative over here.

So, this massive building of Rideau Hall is the official residence of that person – called the Governor-General – in Canada. Construction started back in 1838 and there are over 175 rooms – so there is a lot to see.

These days, you can visit the grounds and do guided tours. Eric did this when he was in grade school and even met the Governor-General at the time!

We ran out of time in Ottawa this time, but Lisa wants to check it out, so we’ll be back!

Rideau Hall is actually located near 24 Sussex Drive – the official residence of the Prime Minister. However, 24 Sussex is not open to the public.

Go to Court at the Supreme Court of Canada

Address: 301 Wellington St, Ottawa, ON K1A 0J1, Canada

The Supreme Court of Canada building houses the highest court in the country – the Supreme Court. The current building – built in 1939 – started hearing cases in 1946.

Today, you can actually pop in during the summer months and get a guided tour by a knowledgeable law student.

They actually come in both languages (English and French). Tours have to be booked in advance if you visit outside the summer months.

However, if there’s ever a trial happening when you visit, it’s possible to actually attend! You can learn more about visiting and doing guided tours here .

Soar at The Canada Aviation and Space Museum

Address: 11 Aviation Pkwy, Ottawa, ON K1K 2X5, Canada

If taking to the skies while staying on the ground is more your style, then you need to check out the Aviation and Space Museum .

Founded in 1964, this museum is located to the northeast of downtown Ottawa – but it’s worth the trek.

Inside, you’ll be blown away by the real aircraft they have on display – either on the ground or hanging from the ceiling. The display of Canadian aviation history is truly fascinating.

Canada has also played a large role in influencing space exploration, so the museum also has exhibits dedicated to exploring life in space and more! Eric visited as a kid and loved every second inside.

Wander Through Jacques Cartier Park

Address: 285 Laurier St, Gatineau, QC J8X 3W9, Canada

Technically located in Gatineau, Quebec across the river, Jacques-Cartier Park is something you should know about.

This massive and magnificent green space with trails along the Ottawa River serves as a nice escape from the city in the summer.

In the winter months, however, the park explodes with life as the official home of the famous Winterlude festival in February! From ice slides to sweet treats, this park becomes a winter playground of epic proportions.

So, pick your season and enjoy the park! You can learn more about Winterlude in Ottawa on the Ottawa Tourism Website .

Check Out Laurier House National Historic Site

Address: 335 Laurier Ave E, Ottawa, ON K1N 6R4, Canada

If you want to dive even deeper into Canada’s rich history, why not visit the house of some famous leaders?

The Laurier House – located in downtown Ottawa – is this historic estate that served as the former residence of two very important prime ministers: William Lyon Mackenzie King and – of course – Sir Wilfrid Laurier.

The House offers daily tours in the summer months where you can learn more about the real lives of these important Canadian leaders.

The House also has other activities/events during the summer months like afternoon Sweet Picnic Tea on the Veranda.

If you’re feeling adventurous, they even have an escape room called “Escape the Kitchen!” which puts you in a 1940s kitchen during World War II and you have to complete a recipe for the Prime Minister’s dinner party! You can learn more on the Laurier House website .

Visit the Royal Canadian Mint

Address: 320 Sussex Dr, Ottawa, ON K1A 0G8, Canada

If you want to get rich while visiting Ottawa (just kidding), then go to where the money is made!

The Royal Canadian Mint is located very close to downtown in a small castle-like building. That’s a good thing because inside the thick walls are some of the most expensive items in the country!

The Ottawa location of the Mint (compared to the Winnipeg location) is credited with creating hand-crafted collector and commemorative coins, as well as medals and medallions.

The other facility makes the circulation coins – but this one makes all the dies for striking the coins! 

In any case, you can take a guided tour – but a reservation is strongly advised especially in the summer since it can get busy.

If you go on a weekday, you will see the place alive with acitivity!

Check out the Bank of Canada Museum

Address: 30 Bank St, Ottawa, ON K1A 0G9, Canada

Do you like money? How about talking and learning about money? Well, then visiting the Bank of Canada Museum is for you!

Located downtown in the Bank of Canada building, the museum is dedicated to teaching people about the economy, Canada’s role in global markets, and what the Bank of Canada does in relation to it all.

They have a permanent exhibit that is interactive, but they also have temporary exhibits like the history of Canadian money and the people featured on the banknotes.

Admission to the Bank of Canada Museum is free and they also give guided tours if you want to join in! You can learn more about a visit on the Bank of Canada Museum website .

Relax at Dow’s Lake

Location: 45°23’42.3″N 75°42’10.2″W

Looking to get back on the water without the hassle of boats on the Ottawa River? Why not head for Dow’s Lake? This man-made lake close to downtown is a great place to hang out.

There are many restaurants – and you can even rent a boat (canoe, kayak, or paddleboat) and hit the water in the summer! Read more on the Dow’s Lake website .

Bonus: Visit the Diefenbunker Museum

Address: 3929 Carp Rd, Carp, ON K0A 1L0, Canada

Located about 30 km outside Ottawa, you can explore “Canada’s Cold War Museum” at the Diefenbunker !

Named after the Prime Minister of the time, Diefenbaker, this once top-secret bunker was built in 1959 to keep important Canadians safe in the event of nuclear war.

Now, the bunker is a National Historic Site that has been converted and opened in the 1990s to be a museum about its past.

We actually went to the Diefenbunker and wrote a whole post about our visit . In short, it was awesome and we would highly recommend the drive out to Carp, Ontario!

Things to Consider Before Travelling to Ottawa

Before you head off to explore Ottawa, there are a few things that you should consider. From when to visit and where to stay, we’ll outline them below to help you plan your trip.

Best Time to Visit Ottawa

The best time to visit Ottawa very much depends. It depends on what you want to do, what kind of weather you like, and if there are any events happening.

Ottawa is an interesting city in the sense that there’s always something going on – in any season.

They have a ton of events – from Bluesfest and Canada Day celebrations in the summer to Winterlude in February and New Year’s celebrations at the end of the year.

So, it’s best to check for any events before you plan, because it can impact the prices and availability of things like rental cars, hotels, and parking!

That said, if you want to skate and enjoy the famous Rideau Canal, then late January and February pretty much guarantee (except for 2023, sorry) that it’ll be cold, the ice will be good, and the sweet treats (like Beavertails) will be ready to eat!

Summertime – from late May to September – is basically all nice weather, with late July usually the hottest and October showing off those Canadian fall colours!

How to Get to Ottawa, Ontario

We’ve actually written a whole post on this topic (if you are driving from Toronto) – but Ottawa is located on the Quebec border in the eastern part of southern Ontario.

It’s about a 4.5-hour drive from Toronto. You can also take the bus, the ViaRail Train, or fly into Ottawa if you are coming from farther away.

Read More: How To Get From Toronto To Ottawa

Generally speaking, if you are exploring Ontario, it’s very car-friendly – which means that driving long distances is usually the best way to get around.

Having a rental car can be a huge benefit to seeing as much as you want in such a vast province!

Getting Around Ottawa

Once you are in Ottawa, getting around is relatively simple. The downtown area is kind of compact and full of top attractions, so walking would be an easy way to get from A to B.

It’s also pretty flat, but some areas can be a bit hilly. Byward Market is located more downhill from Parliament and the Locks require sloped pathways or steps to get to.

To travel to museums (or get to the airport) outside the city centre, you can check out the Ottawa Transport (OC Transpo) website for buses and light-rail trains.

As mentioned above, renting a bike or taking a bike tour is a great way to enjoy the nice weather and stretch your legs.

Bikes are great for riding along the Rideau Canal paths and exploring further attractions like Rideau Hall or Rideau Falls (to the north of Downtown along the River).

Of note, both Escape Bicycle Tours and Rentals – Ottawa and RentABike have downtown locations and solid reviews.

Ottawa Tour Options Besides hopping on a boat or bike, there are a few other tour options for Ottawa that will show you around in lots of different ways!

• Ottawa Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour
• Ottawa Brewery Tour (via Bus)
• Scenic Helicopter Flight Over Ottawa
• Ottawa Night Tour

Where to Stay in Ottawa, Ontario

If you are looking for a place to stay in Ottawa, you will definitely have a few places to choose from. Ottawa is the capital so it’s more of an international business/diplomat city.

Check here for hotels and accommodations in Ottawa .

Eric has stayed at a few places like the Novotel Ottawa City Centre for a great location. Both the ByWard Blue Inn or The Business Inn are very popular accommodation options within walking distance of the heart of downtown.

You could also go all out and stay at the famous Fairmont Chateau Laurier right in the heart of the city by the Rideau Locks!

If you are looking for a hostel in Ottawa, there are only a small handful to choose from. Luckily, they are all highly rated. One of the most popular hostels is the Ottawa Backpackers Inn .

Related Articles

If you’re exploring the province, you may find these posts useful:

• How to Get from Toronto to Ottawa !
• Here’s Our One Day in Ottawa Itinerary !
• The Best Ottawa Bars and Pubs (Told by a Local)
• Where to Stay in Ottawa Guide (Hotels and Neighbourhoods)
• Great Day Trips from Ottawa (+ How to Get There)

And there you have it – 29 of the best things to do in Ottawa, Canada! In the end, there are certainly more things to check out – but we couldn’t include them all.

We’ll update this post as we explore the capital more. Let us know if there’s anything you explore and end up loving!

As always, Keep Exploring, eh? – E&L

Pin it for later!

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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• Best of Ottawa

The 5 Must-visit Places in Ottawa [2023]

Home » The 5 Must-visit Places in Ottawa [2023]

• Published: August 29, 2023

Taking a step off of dry land will allow you to see Ottawa from a whole new perspective. Within city limits,enjoying a scenic kayaking excursion, a luxurious yacht brunch, or a floating bar is easy and accessible. Take a romantic ride, celebrate an event with friends, or simply sightsee when you book a trip on one of Ottawa’s many reputable boat cruise operators. And if you’re looking for more fun experiences in the city, check out:

The 8 Best Sushi Spots in Ottawa The 4 Best Sunflower Fields and Mazes in and Around Ottawa The 4 Best Archery Ranges in Ottawa The 8 Best Nightclubs in Ottawa

Are you ready to set sail and explore Ottawa’s beautiful waterways? There are voyages that appeal to a variety of interests and occasions.

How We Selected the 5 Must-Visit Spots in Ottawa?

1) byward market, 2) rideau canal national historic site, 3) national gallery of canada, 4) parliament building ruins, 5) pinhey forest, faqs about places in ottawa, final thoughts.

Curating the top must-visit places in Ottawa involved a meticulous process that considered local insights, tourist favorites, cultural significance, variety of experiences, accessibility, personal experiences, and online reviews. Our list is a result of combining these factors to provide a diverse selection that captures the city’s essence:

Local Insights : We gathered recommendations from Ottawa residents to uncover hidden gems and iconic landmarks.

Tourist Favorites : We included well-known attractions that define Ottawa’s identity.

Cultural Significance : Museums, galleries, and cultural centers celebrating history and heritage were highlighted.

Variety of Experiences : Our list offers a mix of historical, natural, urban, and culinary experiences.

Accessibility : Each spot is easily reachable, factoring in location and transportation.

Personal Experiences : Our team visited each spot to assess its appeal and atmosphere.

Online Reviews : Visitor feedback helped confirm the popularity and quality of our selections.

This process ensures a well-rounded and memorable Ottawa experience for all types of travelers. And if you want to learn more about our selection process, consider checking out our article on how we choose the best .

Must-Visit Places In Ottawa

View this post on Instagram A post shared by ByWard Market (@bywardmarket)

The ByWard Market in Ottawa’s downtown core is a bustling historic retail and entertainment district, established in 1826. The market is a top tourist attraction offering shopping, dining , arts, and more, with proximity to landmarks like Parliament Hill and embassies.

Business Information:

55 ByWard Market Square; Ottawa, Ontario; K1N 9C3

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Parks Canada (@parks.canada)

The canal is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a popular attraction year-round. In the summer, visitors can enjoy boat rides and scenic walks, while in winter, the canal transforms into the world’s largest skating rink .

1 Second Ave, Ottawa, ON K1S 2H2

View this post on Instagram A post shared by National Gallery of Canada (@natgallerycan)

One of the largest art museums on the continent with over 93,000 Indigenous, Canadian, European, Asian, and global pieces. Additionally, the museum often hosts special exhibitions. The granite-and-glass building offers sweeping views of Parliament Hill and the Ottawa River.

380 Sussex Dr, Ottawa, ON K1N 9N4

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Elena Koren | Real Estate (@elenakoren_realtor)

Mackenzie Ave, Ottawa, ON K1N 1G8

View this post on Instagram A post shared by My Bed of Roses 🌹 (@mybedofroses)

A mix of natural and urban pathways in Ottawa’s west end that explore the city’s singular inland sand dunes. The forested areas have easy walking trails, tall trees, and secret sandy river banks with a view of Rideau Falls.

Ottawa, ON K2G 1W2

Ottawa is famous for being the capital city of Canada and is known for its historic landmarks, government institutions, and cultural attractions. It’s home to iconic sites like Parliament Hill, the Rideau Canal (a UNESCO World Heritage Site), numerous museums, and vibrant festivals such as Winterlude.

Ottawa offers various neighborhoods that are considered great places to live, depending on individual preferences. Some popular neighborhoods include The Glebe, Westboro, Old Ottawa South, and Sandy Hill. These areas offer a mix of amenities, cultural experiences, and access to green spaces .

Ottawa has several streets that are well-known for their significance and attractions. Some of the famous streets include:

• Wellington Street : Home to many government buildings, including Parliament Hill.
• Sparks Street : A pedestrian street known for shopping and entertainment.
• Bank Street : A vibrant area with shops, restaurants, and cultural venues.
• Elgin Street : Lined with restaurants , cafes, and theaters, offering a lively atmosphere.
• Rideau Street : A major commercial street with shopping centers and historic sites.

These streets contribute to Ottawa’s unique urban landscape and cultural fabric.

Ottawa is a city that offers a wide range of must-see attractions, from historical sites to world-class museums. Whether you’re interested in its history, culture, or simply want to soak up the local vibe, the city has something to impress.

Do you have any other recommendations for must-see places in Ottawa? We’d love to read your comment below.

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© 2024 Ottawa Stories

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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55 Fun & Unusual Things to Do in Ottawa, Canada

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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

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!

If you live in Ottawa and want to see a total eclipse, head for the border

Communities in the eclipse's 'path of totality' brace for visitors and hope to cash in.

Solar Eclipse: The journey to the path of totality

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If you want the full experience of a total solar eclipse on April 8, you'll have to leave Ottawa and head south.

The Ottawa-Gatineau area will experience a near-total eclipse — the moon is expected to cover about 99 per cent of the sun — but won't be shrouded in complete darkness like other areas. 

"The sun is a very, very bright star, so even one per cent of the light is too much light. You're not going to see things like the solar corona, which is only visible when you completely block out the sun," said Nikhil Arora, eclipse outreach coordinator at Queen's University in Kingston, Ont.

Luckily, you don't have to travel far to reach the "path of totality," a swath of North America that will experience full coverage of the sun.

Kingston and nearby Gananoque are hosting eclipse events in public parks.

Some local provincial parks and historic sites are also preparing for eclipse watchers and Queen's will provide some experts to answer questions at several locations.

Arora said Kingston's planning is trying to learn from the 2017 American eclipse, the most photographed to date.

"The biggest thing we need to think about is traffic jams and gridlock. That's what we're trying to avoid," he said. "Kingston Transit is free on that day to be able to reach viewing locations."

If the water is more your style, cruise season has started early in the Thousand Islands area to cater to eclipse watchers.

Gananoque Tourism coordinator Jennifer Baril said the eclipse has kicked off the local tourism season more than a month early.

Plan to change plans

Backup plans are essential if you're "very keen" on getting the total experience, according to eclipse chaser David Makepeace.  

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"The centre line along the path of totality is where the eclipse lasts the longest," he said.

"If you just come inside the northern limit, you might see a minute or minute and a half of [total] eclipse, but if you'd spent that extra hour to drive deeper … you could end up with three and a half minutes."

Makepeace, who has been chasing and capturing eclipses for 30 years, is planning to travel to Mexico to all but guarantee a clear sky. He recommends watching the weather radar ahead of April 8.

"If you're in the Ottawa area, you may find that it's going to be cloudy here but it's going to be fine in Niagara Falls ,   then drive to Niagara Falls. I know it's a long way … but this is the nature of this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity," he said.

"If you're willing to cross the border into the States, it's your shortest drive to the longest amount of totality."

N.Y. hotels booked up

Eclipse watchers from around the world have already noticed how much of the path of totality falls along across Upstate New York.

"The hotel rooms on the U.S. side filled up more than a year ago and the short-term rentals have continued to book and book and book as the weeks have gone on," said Corey Fram, director of tourism at the Thousand Islands International Tourism Council. 

"So we know visitors are coming."

• Why next week's solar eclipse has scientists so excited

The small city of Watertown 200 kilometres south of Ottawa is expecting its population to multiply by as many as eight times during the eclipse.

Mayor Sarah Compo Pierce has been involved in planning for the last two years.

"We're expecting an extreme influx of visitors. The highest estimate we've seen so far is 174,000 people, which would be the largest even in anybody's memory to happen in the city," Compo Pierce said.

The city is closing most of its non-essential operations and redirecting staff to manage traffic and its centrepiece "Total Eclipse of the Park" event in Thompson Park.

The free event has had people register for tickets from as far away as Italy and South America, Compo Pierce said. 

Restaurants and retailers are encouraged to be ready for visitors on April 8, while other businesses such as furniture stores are being asked to reschedule deliveries. 

If big crowds aren't your scene, remember the eclipse is available for free wherever you can safely stop and don your eclipse goggles. Some places prefer you don't park on the side of the road and recommend parking lots.

"As long as you can see the sun from your location inside the path of totality, then you're in the right place to see the eclipse," Makepeace said. 

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

CBC Reporter

Matthew Kupfer has been a reporter and producer at CBC News since 2012. He can be reached at [email protected] and on Twitter @matthewkupfer

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People in Baltimore , Philadelphia , New Jersey, Connecticut, Boston and other areas of the Northeast reported shaking. Tremors lasting for several seconds were felt over 200 miles away near the Massachusetts-New Hampshire border.

The map below shows the seismic intensity of the earthquake. The map, which is mostly a lighter shade of blue, shows that the intensity was light to weak, depending on the distance from the epicenter. 

Another map released by the European-Mediterranean Seismological Centre on X, formerly Twitter, highlights the eyewitness reports of shaking and possible damage levels during the seismic event. 

#Earthquake 18 mi W of #Plainfield (New Jersey) 23 min ago (local time 10:23:20). Updated map - Colored dots represent local shaking & damage level reported by eyewitnesses. Share your experience via: 📱 https://t.co/IbUfG7TFOL 🌐 https://t.co/wErQf69jIn pic.twitter.com/jBjVw1ngAD — EMSC (@LastQuake) April 5, 2024

New York Gov. Kathy Hochul and New York City Mayor Eric Adams have been briefed on the quake. 

"We're taking this extremely seriously and here's why: There's always the possibility of aftershocks. We have not felt a magnitude of this earthquake since about 2011," Hochul said. 

People across the region were startled by the rumbling of the quake. One New York City resident told CBS New York's Elijah Westbrook, "I was laying in my bed, and my whole apartment building started shaking. I started freaking out," 

It's not the first time the East Coast and New York City have been hit by an earthquake. 

A 5.0 quake was measured in New York City in 1884. 

The shaking stirred memories of the Aug. 23, 2011, earthquake that jolted tens of millions of people from Georgia to Canada. Registering magnitude 5.8, it was the strongest quake to hit the East Coast since World War II. The epicenter was in Virginia.

That earthquake left cracks in the Washington Monument, spurred the evacuation of the White House and Capitol and rattled New Yorkers three weeks before the 10th anniversary of the Sept. 11 terror attacks.

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Lucia Suarez Sang is an associate managing editor at cbsnews.com. Previously, Lucia was the director of digital content at FOX61 News in Connecticut and has previously written for outlets including FoxNews.com, Fox News Latino and the Rutland Herald.

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Canada's first railway tunnel in Brockville, Ont. has delayed start to 2024 season

One of the largest tourist attractions in Brockville, Ont. is having a delayed start to the 2024 season due to issues with its lighting system.

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Canada’s First Railway Tunnel is a free attraction located right near Brockville City Hall. It typically opens on Easter weekend and closes sometime in the fall.

The tunnel saw its last trains pass through it in 1970 and has since been reincorporated as a walking path with a colourful light show.

But this year, its opening has been pushed back a few weeks, due to what the city describes as "challenges with the lighting system."

"The issues go beyond regular maintenance," the city said in a statement released last week. "Numerous components of the tunnel light show have prematurely failed resulting in additional work to open for the 2024 season."

The complications with the tunnel have cost the city roughly $120,000. It is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the city, but it’s free to use for visitors.

The city of Brockville has invested more money in maintaining its historic landmarks over the past few years. The tunnel was built in 1860 and stretches over 500 metres under the city's downtown.

This historic tunnel was completed 21 years before construction of the Canadian Pacific Railway began and predates the rail tunnels in the Western Rockies, according to the attraction's website.

The city had hoped to have it open in time for Monday’s total solar eclipse. The tunnel is located right at the entrance to Blockhouse Island, where large crowds gathered to watch the eclipse.

The city says they are hoping the tunnel will be open again in the coming weeks.

This story will be updated.

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Stay Connected

Free or nearly free activities in spring, summer and fall in Ottawa

If you’re looking for frugal ideas during colder weather, consult our page  Free or nearly free Ottawa in winter .

Visiting Canada’s Capital on a limited budget doesn’t have to limit your experiences. There are many free or nearly free ways to enjoy national museums, historic sites, outdoor activities and special events! Here are some suggestions on how to experience Ottawa in the warm months without breaking the bank.

ATTRACTIONS AND TOURS

• Visit the iconic Parliament Hill ! While the iconic Centre Block undergoes a decade-long rehabilitation, you can enjoy two free guided tours of other interior spaces: The House of Commons in Parliament Hill’s West Block and the Senate in the Senate of Canada Building (Ottawa’s original train station). Reserve your tickets online !
• Visit Rideau Hall , the Governor General of Canada’s residence. Explore the beautiful grounds where dignitaries and political figures have planted trees (open daily from 8 a.m. to one hour before sunset). Or take a guided tour of the famous stone residence (verify schedule).
• Join Ottawa Free Tours for one of their free walking tours! Their Capital City tour runs on select dates from April through September.
• Explore the historic ByWard Market neighbourhood by joining a free guided bilingual walking tour , available Thursdays through Sundays (and select holidays) from early June to early September.
• Enjoy free programming at the National Arts Centre (NAC)! The NAC regularly offers events for all ages including Toddler Tuesdays, Seniors Pop-up Painting, music shows, yoga and meditation.
• Visit the free Ottawa Art Gallery (OAG) to admire historic and contemporary works associated with the Ottawa region, including from the Group of Seven. The OAG also hosts creative gatherings for kids, Happy Hour for adults (for a fee), and even free childcare for OAG visitors. Please note: Childcare is suspended in July and August during OAG's summer camps.
• The Bank of Canada Museum (formerly the Currency Museum of the Bank of Canada) is always free! People of all ages can create their own avatar and learn about the important role they play in the economy through hands-on interactive exhibits.
• On Thursday evenings, admission to the permanent exhibits of the National Gallery of Canada , the Canadian Museum of History , the Canadian War Museum and the Canadian Museum of Nature is free from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m.
• The Canada Agriculture and Food Museum , the Canada Aviation and Space Museum and the Canada Science and Technology Museum offer free admission daily between 4 p.m. and 5 p.m.
• Visit the Royal Canadian Mint to find out how coins are made, see more than one million dollars’ worth of pure gold and hold a solid gold bar in your hands! It’s free to visit the fun boutique and guided tours of the facility are very affordable.
• If you’re an Ottawa resident, take advantage of the Museum privilege program at the Ottawa Public Library. The Library loans out family passes to several museums at no charge—all you need is a library card.

OUTDOOR SITES AND ACTIVITIES

• Go cycling , in-line skating, running or walking anytime on over 800 kilometres (497 miles) of beautiful recreational pathways that link natural areas, parks, gardens and national historic sites. Plus take advantage of Weekend Bikedays from late May to early September, when more than 50 kilometres (31 miles) of parkways are closed to motorists.
• See John Ceprano’s rock sculptures at Remic Rapids along the Ottawa River! Every spring (continues through fall, until the sculptures are dismantled by the winter elements), John creates unique sculptures by only using rocks that are available on site. These amazing creations are the perfect backdrop for pictures in the early morning or evening light!
• Explore the National Capital Greenbelt , a protected natural area encircling the city of Ottawa, including the Mer Bleue Bog! Mer Bleue is one of the largest bogs in southern Ontario, is ecologically more typical of the Arctic than the Ottawa Valley, and has been designated an internationally significant wetland under the United Nations’ Ramsar Convention.
• Enjoy Salsa @City Hall ! Each Wednesday from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. from early July to the end of August, a Latin dance social takes place at Ottawa City Hall. Enjoy a free introductory Latin dance class indoors or outdoors, depending on the weather!
• Take a hike in Gatineau Park ! Located just a 15-minute drive north of downtown Ottawa, Gatineau Park offers more than 165 kilometres (102 miles) of trails, with most being available year-round. Admission to the park is free. For more hiking ideas, visit our Hiking in Ottawa page.
• Britannia Beach: 2805 Carling Avenue, 613-820-1211
• Mooney’s Bay Beach: 3000 Riverside Drive, 613-248-0863
• Westboro Beach: 234 Atlantis Road at Kitchissippi Lookout, 613-792-3832
• Petrie Island Beach: 727 Trim Road, 613-824-5704
• Go hunting for urban art throughout Ottawa’s diverse neighbourhoods. City spaces are beautified by murals, sculptures and graffiti created by talented artists.
• Discover Ottawa’s Garden Promenade ! The website organizes beautiful gardens and green spaces by type and by geographical location with interactive routes and maps for easy exploring.
• Have a picnic! Buy fresh bread, fresh coldcut meats, cheese and vegetables from the farmers and stores in the ByWard Market , then have an impromptu picnic in Major’s Hill Park or at Nepean Point (located behind the National Gallery) for a spectacular view. The point is a beautiful spot to take pictures of Parliament Hill, the Ottawa River, Victoria Island, Jacques Cartier Park, and the Canadian Museum of History .
• Visit the Ottawa Farmer’s Market at Lansdowne! This market is a fun place to browse locally-grown and locally-made food, arts crafts, and more! It takes place each Sunday outside the historic Aberdeen Pavillion (and inside in the colder months).
• Rent a kayak, canoe or a paddle board (or bring your own) and explore the Rideau Canal! Located at 1001 Queen Elizabeth Drive, the Dows Lake Pavilion offers equipment rentals from Victoria Day weekend throughout the summer. See more ideas for flatwater fun in Ottawa.
• Go on a photography crawl! Plan your own Instagram-worthy tour with our lists of the best places to photograph tulips in spring , sights in the summer and fall colours in autumn .

FREE EVENTS

• Join the country’s biggest Canada Day party each year on July 1! Enjoy many free concerts on Parliament Hill and elsewhere throughout downtown, VIP appearances, the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) Musical Ride, family activities and fabulous fireworks at 10 p.m.!
• Take the family to the Summer Solstice Indigenous Festival ! In honour of National Indigenous Peoples Day on June 21, this multi-day event in June features music, dancing, art and much more by First Nations, Métis and Inuit artists.
• In mid-summer, enjoy free entertainment by various street performers from around the world during the Ottawa International Busker Festival (also known as “Buskerfest”) on Sparks Street!
• Go to the Tim Hortons Ottawa Dragon Boat Festival ! Each year over a weekend in late June, boaters and spectators enjoy exciting non-stop races and at night, amazing free concerts.
• Take part in Doors Open Ottawa ! In early June each year, hundreds of architecturally or historically interesting buildings offer free admission over two days.
• Go to the HOPE Volleyball SummerFest at Mooney’s Bay Park! This annual day-long beach volleyball tournament takes place on a huge sandy beach in mid-July and includes great free outdoor concerts for players and spectators alike.
• Celebrate diversity and the 2SLGBTQ+ community at the end of August during Capital Pride ! Enjoy parties and events, including the festive parade.
• Take in glorious fall colours during Fall Rhapsody (end of September through mid-October)! Spectacular fall foliage is scattered in parks, along waterways and at historic sites in the city and in the countryside, including Gatineau Park.
• Check out local treasures at 613flea ! This monthly, and sometimes twice monthly, market features artisans, makers and other independent creators selling their wares (admission is free).

For more fun and free happenings like poutine, BBQ and cultural celebrations, consult our online Event Calendar !

AFFORDABLE SIGHTSEEING

Ottawa is a very pedestrian-friendly city, but if you’re looking to venture outside of the downtown core, opt to take the city bus operated by OC Transpo . The OC Transpo DayPass can be purchased for $11.75 and entitles you to unlimited same-day travel on the bus as well as on the O-Train, Ottawa’s light rail project.

With all the money you’ll save, you could splurge on a special Ottawa experience. Consider these different ways to see the city , including scenic biplane flights, boat cruises and hop-on, hop-off bus tours.

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General inquiries: 1-833-864-7839 [email protected]

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Stay up to date on upcoming events and ideas to plan your next trip to Ottawa with friends, family or on your own by signing up for the Ottawa Tourism Newsletter.

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When and where the solar eclipse will be crossing the U.S.

A total solar eclipse will grace the skies over North America on Monday, one of the most hotly anticipated sky-watching events in recent years.

Weather permitting , millions of people in Mexico, 15 U.S. states and eastern Canada will have the chance to see the moon slip between Earth and sun, temporarily blocking the sun’s light .

The total solar eclipse will be visible along a “path of totality” that measures more than 100 miles wide and extends across the continent. Along that path, the moon will fully obscure the sun, causing afternoon skies to darken for a few minutes.

Follow live updates on the solar eclipse

In all other parts of the continental U.S., a partial solar eclipse will be visible, with the moon appearing to take a bite out of the sun. Exactly how big a bite depends on the location.

The first spot in North America that will experience totality on Monday is on Mexico’s Pacific coast at around 11:07 a.m. PT, according to NASA .

After moving northeast across Mexico, the eclipse’s path travels through Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Missouri, Illinois, Kentucky, Indiana, Ohio, Pennsylvania, New York, Vermont, New Hampshire and Maine. Slivers of Michigan and Tennessee will also be able to witness totality if conditions are clear.

In Canada, the eclipse will be visible in parts of southern Ontario, Quebec, New Brunswick, Prince Edward Island and Cape Breton, at the eastern end of Nova Scotia.

The timing of the eclipse and the duration of totality varies by location. Most places will experience around 2 minutes of darkness, but the longest periods of totality are typically in the center of the eclipse’s path.

This year, the longest stretch of totality will last 4 minutes and 28 seconds in an area northwest of Torreón, Mexico.

Below is a list of timings for some U.S. cities along the path of totality, according to NASA .

• Dallas: Partial eclipse begins at 12:23 p.m. CT and totality at 1:40 p.m. CT.
• Idabel, Oklahoma: Partial eclipse begins at 12:28 p.m. CT and totality at 1:45 p.m. CT.
• Little Rock, Arkansas: Partial eclipse begins at 12:33 p.m. CT and totality at 1:51 p.m. CT.
• Poplar Bluff, Missouri: Partial eclipse begins at 12:39 p.m. CT and totality at 1:56 p.m. CT.
• Paducah, Kentucky: Partial eclipse begins at 12:42 p.m. CT and totality at 2:00 p.m. CT.
• Carbondale, Illinois: Partial eclipse begins at 12:42 p.m. CT and totality at 1:59 p.m. CT.
• Evansville, Indiana: Partial eclipse begins at 12:45 p.m. CT and totality at 2:02 p.m. CT.
• Cleveland: Partial eclipse begins at 1:59 p.m. ET and totality at 3:13 p.m.
• Erie, Pennsylvania: Partial eclipse begins at 2:02 p.m. ET and totality at 3:16 p.m. ET.
• Buffalo, New York: Partial eclipse begins at 2:04 p.m. ET and totality at 3:18 p.m.
• Burlington, Vermont: Partial eclipse begins at 2:14 p.m. ET and totality at 3:26 p.m. ET.
• Lancaster, New Hampshire: Partial eclipse begins at 2:16 p.m. ET and totality at 3:27 p.m.
• Caribou, Maine: Partial eclipse begins at 2:22 p.m. ET and totality at 3:32 p.m. ET.

Other resources can also help you figure out when the various phases of the eclipse will be visible where you live, including NationalEclipse.com and TimeandDate.com .

If you plan to watch the celestial event, remember that it’s never safe to look directly at the sun, including through binoculars, telescopes or camera lenses. Special eclipse glasses are required to safely view solar eclipses and prevent permanent eye damage.

Denise Chow is a reporter for NBC News Science focused on general science and climate change.