Ottawa is the capital city of Canada that lies on South Bank of Ottawa River. This city is dissected by the Rideau Canal and Rideau River. Ottawa is famous for keeping intact the country’s culture and heritage and oozes a multi-cultural influence. Ottawa is famous for various national attractions and it has numerous things to spend your days relaxing and enjoying in the city. Right from visiting the Rideau Canal and the iconic Parliament Hill, to several outdoor activities, it has everything to offer for making your holidays unforgettable.
Top Things to Do in Ottawa
1. Rideau Canal
The Rideau Canal is one of the major tourists’ attractions. It is a long and significant waterway that passes through the downtown core of Ottawa. This canal is known for connecting the city to water bodies that includes the lake Ontario and Ottawa River.
In 1832, this canal was used as a military defense system and now it is known as a recreational attraction. During warmer months, tourists as well as locals walk, ride on the walkways, or bike through the line of the canal. Few even take help of boat and paddle through the water to enjoy and have fun. In winters, the river freezes and transforms itself into a major ice-skating rink, which is enjoyed by many.
2. Parliament Hill
The imposing Parliament Hill is a world-renowned landmark and home to the Parliament Buildings. It is in these buildings where all the decisions are made related to democracy. The buildings host various concerts, cultural exhibitions, free guided tours, and many light and sound shows for tourists. Most of the places like Centre block are open for public.
You can also check the observation deck of the Peace Tower and pay tribute to the Canadians that were killed during military service. In the central lawn you can witness the Changing of Guards ceremony that takes place every day in summer.
3. Gatineau Park
If you are exhausted from the city life and need a break, then Gatineau park is a an ideal place for you. It is just located 15 Minutes from downtown Ottawa. This park offers exciting activities like biking, swimming, snowshoeing, camping, and many more that will keep you relaxed as well as you would have a lot of fun.
Explore the wooden paths or book one of the cottages for a relaxed holiday.
These Ottawa sightseeing spots are famous among most of the travellers. Apart from these, you can also indulge in many other thrilling activities.
Ottawa's Best Adventures: Activities for Thrill-Seekers
1. Whitewater rafting
2. Cycling
3. Bungee Jumping
Bungee Jumping is again one of the favourite things you can do on your tour. It is known as one of the top things to do in Canada.
Ensure you book your tickets well in advance so that you do not have to wait for long queues for an exhilarating experience.
Other Must-See Tourist Attractions in Ottawa
1. Cultural Attractions
Ottawa museums, galleries, and cultural attractions attract visitors to explore Canada in one single place. If you are an art lover then do visit the National Gallery of Canada that has world-class art to see.
The impressive Canadian War Museum is one of the famous and must-visit museums in Canada. Every art lover will immediately fall in love with this beautiful place and will cherish these memories for a life time
2. Visit the Ottawa Farmers Market
3. Lively Nightlife
If you are party lover then Ottawa is surely not going to disappoint you. If you are confused on what to do in Ottawa this weekend, then the happening nightlife here is for you. There are many bars, pubs, nightclubs, and loungers where you can listen to live jazz or spin on the DJ’s dance tunes.
Enjoy your drinks and have fun for keeping yourself relaxed during your tour. ByWard Market is the best place for a bar Crawl that has various pubs and bars to choose from.
4. Indulge in the Culinary Scene
Ottawa is known for its culture and tradition, which is carried through its cuisine. Beaver Trails is a must visit place in Ottawa where you will find all the Canadian flavors at one stop. It comes with different topping options that include peanut butter, maple syrup, cinnamon sugar, chocolate and hazelnut spread, and so on.
Ottawa is also famous for best Vietnamese food, Lebanese food, and Chinese food. There are many restaurants that serve these various all over the world cuisines, which are enjoyed by locals as well as by tourists.
Luxury and Relaxation Spots in Ottawa
Fairmont Chateau Laurier
Nordik Spa-Nature
When you are visiting Ottawa make sure to take a day to escape the busy city and spend a nice peaceful after known at the Nordik Spa-Nature. It is located just 20 minutes away in the Gatineau, Quebec.
This unique and beautiful natural spa offers a truly rejuvenating experience with the various types of baths, saunas, infinity pool, and saltwater floating pool (Källa Treatment).
Highlights of Nordik Spa-Nature include:
- 10 baths
- 9 saunas
- 1 infinity pool
- 1 saltwater floating pool (Källa Treatment)
- 3 restaurants
- Indoor and outdoor lounges
- Several treatment rooms
The Källa Treatment, is a special kind of spa which stimulates zero gravity and is a must try. After attending this spa you will feel like you have had several hours of deep relaxing sleep.
The Nordik Spa-Nature is also planning to add a hotel on their property in future to make it the perfect spot for an overnight retreat.
Best Place For Ottawa Sunset
If you are looking for a place to have the best sunset views in Ottawa, head to the Andaz Hotel in the ByWard Market. This hotel has a rooftop terrace that offers breathtaking panoramic view of the city skyline. It is the perfect spot to watch the sun go down below the horizon while sipping on a signature cocktail.
Another place where you can get excellent sunset view is the La Terrasse, located inside the Chateau Laurier. This shaded patio overlooks the beautiful Rideau Canal locks and Parliament Buildings. This offers a picturesque where you can unwind and enjoy the beautiful evening sky.
Where to Eat and Drink in Ottawa
Riviera Restaurant
Known as one of the best restaurants in Canada (voted among the top 10 by enRoute Magazine), the Riviera Restaurant is a must-visit if you are looking for an exceptional dining experience in the City.
The restaurant is situated on the Sparks Street across from Parliament Hill. It is a very popular eatery and you will obtain find politicians and other important people there sipping on their signature craft cocktails. From the Mint Juleps to Manhattans, they’ve mastered them all.
The menu changes daily, ensuring fresh, seasonal offerings, but caters to all dietary preferences, including vegetarian, pescatarian, and meat-eaters alike. Be sure to make reservations at this acclaimed establishment for a truly memorable meal.
Whalesbone
With two chains located on the Bank Street and Elgin Street, Whalesbone has really garnered a stellar reputation among the locals and tourists. This seafood-centric restaurant is especially renowned for its exceptional oysters.
If you are a seafood lover you would definitely relish the extensive menu the restaurant has. It also showcases some of the finest catches from the Canada’s waters. Whether you are in the mood for fresh oysters, succulent lobsters or any other Marine delicacy, visit Whalesbone to satisfy your cravings.
Chateau Laurier
Your culinary tour of Ottawa is not complete without dining at the iconic Fairmont Chateau Laurier. It is the hotel’s flagship restaurant, and has been considered the pinnacle of fine dining in the city. The restaurant offers a grand and elegant ambience that perfectly blends with the historic surroundings.
If you are looking for a more contemporary yet equally sophisticated experience you can also try the newly renovated Zoe’s that offers a stylish setting with the blend of traditional crown moulding and 21st-century flair.
Tavern on the Falls
Situated along the beautiful Rideau Falls, where the Rideau River meets the Ottawa River, is a lovely little restaurant that offers a unique waterfront dining experience. It is famous in the locality for its gourmet hot dogs, but the menu also extends far beyond the traditional pub fare.
At the place you will also get to enjoy a refreshing beer or a glass of bubbly while sitting on the patio and taking in the serene views of the fall.
Brig Pub
If you want to spend time with the locals then you must try out The Brig Pub in the ByWard Market. It is a local favourite thanks in part to its hidden gem of a patio tucked away in the back.
Apart from the extensive collection of pub fare they also serve unique offerings like fish tacos, mac and blue cheese, duck confit poutine, and falafel and avocado wraps, catering to diverse palates.
Whether you are looking for a lively atmosphere or a cosy retreat, the Brig Pub’s dual indoor and outdoor seating areas provide the ideal setting to enjoy a memorable meal or an evening drink with friends.
Easy Ways to Pass the Time in Ottawa
Bike or Walk Along the Canal
The Rideau Canal and Ottawa River are lined up with picturesque walking trails, which are perfect for leisurely strolls while observing the natural beauty and history of the region. The pedestrian-friendly paths offer relaxing way to enjoy and explore the iconic waterways.
Walk Across the Alexandra Bridge
To view the City Skyline walk along the Alexandra bridge that connects Ottawa to Gatineau. This bridge has a dedicated pedestrian and cycling path over the Ottawa river.
You can also take a nice evening walk from the Ottawa’s National Gallery to the Canadian Museum of History in Gatineau that offers breathtaking view as you cross between the two cities.
Explore Ottawa’s Monuments
Like many of the other capital cities Ottawa is also home to numerous monuments that commemorate significant events and people in Canadian history. A casual walk through the downtown allows you to discover statues and memorials like the the Valiant’s Memorial, the Peacekeeping Monument, and the Oscar Peterson Statue, that provide insight into the nation’s rich heritage.
Ottawa Festivals
Ottawa hosts a variety of festivals throughout the year, offering endless opportunities to experience the city’s vibrant culture and entertainment scene.
- One of the most highly anticipated events is the Ottawa Jazz Festival, a beloved annual celebration of live music that draws artists and audiences from around the world.
- In the spring, the Canadian Tulip Festival transforms the city into a colorful, blooming wonderland. This festival commemorates the gift of tulips from the Netherlands to Canada after World War II, with over a million tulips adorning the capital’s parks and gardens.
- The most famous festival in Ottawa is the Winterlude which is held annually in the heart of winter. At this iconic event Canadians celebrate the snowy season with a multitude of activities like skating on the Rideau Canal, ice sculptures, snow playgrounds, and live performances.
- Another major highlight is the Canada Day, the 1st of July. This is when the capital city hosts a massive celebration on the Parliament Hill. Canadians from all across the country flock to Ottawa during this time to experience the festivities, entertainment, and immense national pride that radiates throughout the city on this patriotic holiday.
Getting to Ottawa: Your Comprehensive Travel Guide
Ottawa hosts a variety of festivals throughout the year, offering endless opportunities to experience the city’s vibrant culture and entertainment scene.
- One of the most highly anticipated events is the Ottawa Jazz Festival, a beloved annual celebration of live music that draws artists and audiences from around the world.
- In the spring, the Canadian Tulip Festival transforms the city into a colorful, blooming wonderland. This festival commemorates the gift of tulips from the Netherlands to Canada after World War II, with over a million tulips adorning the capital’s parks and gardens.
- The most famous festival in Ottawa is the Winterlude which is held annually in the heart of winter. At this iconic event Canadians celebrate the snowy season with a multitude of activities like skating on the Rideau Canal, ice sculptures, snow playgrounds, and live performances.
- Another major highlight is the Canada Day, the 1st of July. This is when the capital city hosts a massive celebration on the Parliament Hill. Canadians from all across the country flock to Ottawa during this time to experience the festivities, entertainment, and immense national pride that radiates throughout the city on this patriotic holiday.
Ottawa Museums
Aviation and Space Museum
The Aviation and Space Museum is one of the finest museums in the world and it houses an impressive collection of 130 aircraft, propellers, and engines. Highlights include military jets, WWII fighter biplanes, helicopters, and some of the earliest planes ever invented.
You can also buy tickets to the flight simulation machine or even book a thrilling by biplane and helicopter tours.
National Gallery of Canada
The striking National Gallery showcases an extensive collection of Canadian art. While the gallery’s world-class exhibits are a major draw, it’s the iconic “Maman” spider sculpture by Louise Bourgeois at the entrance that often steals the show. This massive piece has been featured at renowned museums worldwide.
Canadian Museum of History
From the First People’s Hall celebrating Indigenous history to the Canadian History Hall honoring pivotal moments and famous personalities, the Canadian Museum of History offers a comprehensive look at the nation’s rich heritage. The unique architecture represents the Canadian landscape, and the museum provides gorgeous views of the Ottawa skyline and the illuminated Alexandra Bridge at night.
Fairmont Chateau Laurier Historic Display
For a free glimpse into Ottawa’s history, visit the Fairmont Chateau Laurier’s main floor display. This exhibit chronicles the property’s storied past through photographs, including notable guests like Winston Churchill. It even details the hotel’s fascinating connection to the Titanic.
Ottawa has something in store for everyone, and once you start exploring the city through its culture and Canadian food, you will fall in love with its mesmerising beauty.
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