The Best City to Visit Near Toronto: An In-depth Guide

Toronto is a vibrant and exciting city, but sometimes it’s nice to get away and explore some of the other incredible cities in the Ontario area. If you’re looking for a great city to visit near Toronto, then look no further than Ottawa. Ottawa is the capital of Canada, and it is one of the most beautiful and unique cities in the world. This guide will provide you with all the information you need to make the most of your trip to Ottawa and explore some of its amazing attractions and experiences.

Introduction to Ottawa

Ottawa is the fourth-largest municipality in Canada and the second-largest city in Ontario. It is located on the south bank of the Ottawa River and is approximately 150 kilometers from Toronto. It has a population of 1 million people, making it the fourth-most populous city in Canada.

Ottawa is known for its beautiful architecture, vibrant culture, and unique attractions. It is home to many world-famous landmarks, such as Parliament Hill, Rideau Canal, and National Gallery of Canada. It has been called the “capital of cool” by National Geographic, and it attracts millions of visitors every year.

History of Ottawa

Ottawa has a long and interesting history. It was first settled by Indigenous people over 10,000 years ago, and it was officially founded in 1826 by Colonel John By as part of the Rideau Canal project. The canal was built for military purposes to link Ottawa to Kingston, but it quickly became a popular tourist attraction and has been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Over time, Ottawa developed into an important political and economic center for Canada. In 1867, it was chosen as the capital of the newly formed country of Canada. Since then, it has been host to many important meetings and events, including royal visits, royal weddings, and the G7 Summit.

Why Visit Ottawa?

Ottawa is one of the most unique cities in Canada and there are numerous reasons why you should visit it. Here are some of the reasons why Ottawa is worth visiting:

Beautiful Architecture

Ottawa is home to some of the most stunning architecture in Canada. From its impressive Parliament buildings to its grand museums, there is plenty to admire here. The architecture in Ottawa is a testament to its past and its future, making it a great place to explore.

Rich Culture

Ottawa is home to a vibrant culture and a diverse population. It has a strong French influence, as well as a large number of immigrants from all over the world. This makes it a great place to experience different cultures and learn about different people.

Unique Attractions

Ottawa is home to many unique attractions that you won’t find anywhere else in the world. From its world-famous museums to its iconic landmarks, there is something for everyone here. Whether you’re an art lover or a history buff, Ottawa has something for you.

Outdoor Activities

Ottawa is also home to some great outdoor activities. From its scenic parks and gardens to its picturesque rivers and canals, Ottawa is a great place to enjoy the outdoors. Whether you’re looking for an outdoor adventure or just some peace and quiet, Ottawa has something for you.

Things To Do In Ottawa

Ottawa offers an array of activities and experiences for visitors of all ages. Here are some of the top things to do in Ottawa:

Explore Parliament Hill

Parliament Hill is the centrepiece of Ottawa’s skyline and one of its most iconic landmarks. It is home to Canada’s Parliament buildings, which were constructed in 1867 after Ottawa was chosen as the capital of Canada. Visitors can explore the grounds of Parliament Hill, which offer stunning views of the city, as well as tours of the buildings themselves.

Visit Rideau Canal

Rideau Canal is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Ottawa’s most popular attractions. It is a 202-kilometer long canal system that connects downtown Ottawa with various points along the Rideau River. Visitors can explore the canal by boat or by foot, or simply take in its stunning views from one of the many parks along its banks.

Explore ByWard Market

ByWard Market is one of Canada’s oldest and largest public markets. It is located in downtown Ottawa and offers an array of fresh produce, local crafts, and unique restaurants. Visitors can explore the market’s many shops and eateries or simply admire its historic buildings from afar.

Visit National Gallery of Canada

The National Gallery of Canada is an impressive museum located in downtown Ottawa. It features an array of artwork from some of Canada’s most renowned artists as well as an impressive collection of international works. Visitors can explore the galleries or take part in one of the many educational programs offered by the gallery.

Tours In Ottawa

Visiting Ottawa can be made even more enjoyable with a guided tour. Here are two popular tours that you should consider when visiting Ottawa:

Ottawa Walking Tour

This walking tour offers a great introduction to Ottawa’s history and culture. The tour will take you through some of Ottawa’s most iconic sights, such as Parliament Hill and ByWard Market, while also providing an insight into its history and culture. This tour is perfect for those who want to learn more about this amazing city without having to worry about getting lost!

Ottawa Bike Tour

This bike tour offers an exciting way to explore Ottawa’s sights and attractions. The tour will take you through some of Ottawa’s most iconic sights and landmarks, such as Parliament Hill and Rideau Canal, on two wheels! You’ll have plenty of time to explore each sight at your own pace while also learning about Ottawa’s history and culture from your guide.

Conclusion

Ottawa is a vibrant and exciting city with plenty to offer visitors from all walks of life. From its stunning architecture to its vibrant culture and unique attractions, there is something for everyone here. Whether you’re looking for an adventure or just some peace and quiet, Ottawa is sure to satisfy your needs. We hope this guide has provided you with all the information you need to make the most of your trip to Ottawa!