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Ottawa (/ ˈ ɒ t ə w ə / ⓘ, / ˈ ɒ t ə w ɑː /; Canadian French: ) is the capital city of Canada. It is located in the southern portion of the province of Ontario, at the confluence of the Ottawa River and the Rideau River.
Jun 20, 2024 · The official website for tourism in Ottawa, Canada’s capital. Find out what to do, where to stay and where to eat during your visit to Ottawa.
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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. In our opinion, Canada’s capital is one of Canada’s coolest cities, and here’s why.
1. SUP with Urban Ocean
Imagine paddleboarding the Gatineau River while 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, and Supreme Court of Canada, and out to the...
2. BiPlane Flight
I didn’t realize that you could fly in a genuine World War II Biplane, but at the Canada Aviation and Space Museum, known for its impressive collection of vintage aircraft and exhibits, 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, which showcased the Gatineau Hills and Downtown Ottawa, including a pass over the Parliament Buildings. Our pilot even did a few maneuvers over Gatineau befo...
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.
7. 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. You will get to see the Senate at the Senate of Canada Building, the House of Commons in the West Block and the East Block.Additionally, don’t miss the PBR Ottawa Classic event at the Canadian Tire Centre, where you can watch Canada’s best...
8. Changing of the Guard
Canadahas its own changing of the guard, just like England. You can catch two different ones in the city. The change 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, and a lavish ceremony takes place each day at 9:50 am from June to August on the East Lawn of Parliament Hill.
9. Yoga on Parliament Hill
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has been known to pop by Yoga on Parliament Hill. 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 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!) There are so many museums that you could literally spend your whole time in the city just museum hopping. These are a few of our favourites.
15. Fairmont Chateau Laurier
No trip to Ottawa would be complete without staying at the Fairmont Chateau Laurier. Built in 1912, it is one of Canada’s most famous landmarks, having welcomed royalty, celebrities (the present company included), and world leaders to its historic chambers. 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...
16. Nordik Spa-Nature
When visiting Ottawa, take some time to get out of town and spend a day at the quiet retreat of Nordik Spa-Nature. Located 20 minutes from Ottawa in Gatineau, Quebec, Nordik Spa is a top choice for things to do near Ottawa. It offers a unique spa experience surrounded by nature. The Källa Treatment (Saltwater Pool) was a highlight for us. We spent 40 minutes floating in serenity, feeling the weight of zero gravity—equivalent to several hours of sleep! Nordik Spa-Nature is planning a hotel on-...
17. 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 TripAdvisor.
18. 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 the 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.
19. 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 throughout the summer and is a very friendly guy. He’s happy to talk with you and share his vision for the whole world to post on Instagram.
21. 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, the National Arts Centre, the Canadian Museum of Nature, the TD Centre, and Lansdowne Park. In the winter in Ottawa, you can skate along this same route. The Rideau Canal transforms into the world’s largest skating rink, spanning 4.8 miles and featuring a surface area equivalent to 90 Olym...
22. 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. Local Tip: If you enjoy markets, make sure to check out Ottawa Farmers’ Markets, which take place at different locations in the city all summ...
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. If you love great food, you don’t want to miss this part of Gatineau.
24. 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 and takes you on a stroll through history and beauty.
25. Walk Across the Alexandra Bridge
New York has the Brooklyn Bridge 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.
26. Ottawa Monuments
Like most capital cities around the world, Ottawa has many monuments commemorating Canadian history. Walk through the downtown core, looking for statues of moments and people defined by the Valiant’s Memorial, The Peacekeeping Monument, and the Oscar Peterson Statue.
27. 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. Additionally, the Volleyball Nations League hosts elite international volleyball teams from various countrie...
28. Canada Day
It’s a Canadian Right of passageto 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.
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 Ottawa Food Festival, featuring various food vendors and activities, is another notable event in the area. T...
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
Chateau Laurier
Wilfred’s in the Fairmont Chateau Laurier has long been considered the best restaurant in Ottawa. The newly renovated Zoe’s has a more relaxed atmosphere in a stylish setting. It’s still grand and elegant with crown molding and high ceilings, but it has stepped effortlessly into the 21st century.
Discover the best attractions, activities and adventures in Ottawa, Canada's capital city. From paddleboarding on the Gatineau River to whitewater rafting on the Ottawa River, from Parliament tours to biplane flights, this guide has it all.
Jun 20, 2024 · Are you planning to visit Ottawa during a specific date range or looking for certain types of experiences within the city or in the nearby countryside? Use our handy search tool to find attractions, events and activities based on your preferences.
Find information and services for residents, businesses, visitors and city staff in Ottawa, Canada's capital city. Learn about the latest news, events, programs, projects and initiatives in the city.
Jun 20, 2024 · No matter the season, Canada’s Capital is a treasure trove of impressive sights and stimulating activities. From world-renown historic places to outdoor adventure and everything in between, here are the top ten things you don’t want to miss when you visit Ottawa: 1. Parliament Hill.
2 days ago · Ottawa, city, capital of Canada, located in southeastern Ontario. In the eastern extreme of the province, Ottawa is situated on the Ottawa River across from Gatineau, Quebec, at the confluence of the Ottawa, Gatineau, and Rideau rivers. The Ottawa River was a key factor in the city’s settlement.
