How do I get around Ottawa?

Ottawa is Canada’s capital city, home to the Parliament buildings, the Rideau Canal and numerous other attractions. The city is easy to explore since it is relatively walkable and bike friendly. However, if you need to get around more quickly, Ottawa also has an extensive public transportation system. There are many ways to get around Ottawa, whether by bus, rail, tramway, ferry or ride sharing services, so let us look at the different options available.

OC Transpo

OC Transpo is the public transit system that operates within the city of Ottawa. The bus and rail system is available seven days a week and covers most of the city. The OC Transpo Home Page has route schedules, maps and ticket information. You can also plan out trips with their trip planning service. The OC Transpo buses accept exact change or you purchase a Presto card to ride. Tickets can also be purchased at terminals and convenience stores including Shopper’s Drug Mart, Loblaws and Mac’s Convenience Stores.

Taxis & Ride-Hailing Services

In addition to public transportation, there are also a number of taxi companies and ride-hailing services operating in Ottawa. Taxi companies include Blue Line Taxi, Capital Taxi, Diamond Taxi and Discount Taxi. The fare for a taxi is generally metered but may include additional fees for late-night trips or extra passengers. Uber and Lyft are also available in Ottawa, allowing you to request a ride with a few taps of your smartphone.

Ferry Services on the Ottawa River

During the summer months in Ottawa, the Riverrunner Ferry operates a service on the Ottawa River between downtown and the National Capital Region’s western suburbs. The ferry launches every thirty minutes from Tuesday to Sunday and departs from both the downtown T1 dock (Rideau Locks) and the T2 dock (Aylmer). There are discounts available for students, seniors and families. If you are looking for a more leisurely way to get around Ottawa and take in the scenery, then you can also rent kayaks, standup paddleboards or canoes from various outfitters. Pedal boating and electric boat tours are also available from Boat Bazaar, located on the north shore of the Ottawa River near Parliament Hill.

Cycling & Walking

Ottawa is highly walkable since it is relatively flat and there are numerous bike paths meandering throughout the city. You can easily get around by bike using the multiple Bike Share Stations located all over the city. Cycling is a great way to explore Ottawa’s many attractions, such as Major’s Hill Park and Rideau Canal, as it allows you to take in the sights at your own pace. With relatively few hills in Ottawa, it is an ideal city for biking around. The City of Ottawa also provides detailed route maps of cycling paths throughout the city.These detailed maps can be found here. There are also trail networks leading to nearby communities such as Gatineau Park, Chelsea and Wakefield as well as other nearby cities like Kanata and Stittsville.

Conclusion

As you can see, there are many different ways to get around Ottawa. Depending on where you’re going, you can choose from public transportation, taxis and ride-hailing, ferries, walking or cycling routes. No matter what mode you choose, exploring Ottawa by these means will be a great way to take in all of its beauty and attractions. In conclusion, Ottawa offers a variety of ways to get around in its picturesque cityscape that is waiting for you to explore it!

An Insider’s Guide to Getting Around Ottawa

If you’re planning a trip to Canada’s capital city, Ottawa, you’ll want to know how to get around to make the most of your visit. Luckily, there are plenty of options available to traverse through the city’s attractions and historic landmarks.

Public Transportation

One of the best ways to get around Ottawa is by public transportation. The city has an efficient, reliable, and affordable public transportation system called OC Transpo. You can choose between buses and light rail trains with a single fare, which includes transfers, so you can hop on and off as much as you need.

Taxi Services

Taxis are also available throughout Ottawa, with metered rates that vary depending on the provider. A few popular taxi companies are Blue Line Taxi, Capital Taxi, and West-Way Taxi – all of which are available for mobile booking. Uber and Lyft are also operating in the city.

Biking

Ottawa is a bike-friendly city with several bike lanes and trails available throughout downtown and surrounding areas. Alternatively, bike share programs like VeloGo offer quick and easy access to renting bikes, with pickup and drop-off locations located throughout the city.

Walking

Ottawa is known for its walkability, and some of the top attractions are located within walking distance from each other. Take a stroll along the Rideau Canal, explore ByWard Market, and visit Parliament Hill for a historic walking tour of the city. Guided walking tours are also available year-round.

Attractions to Visit

Ottawa is known for its many attractions, including the following:

– Parliament Hill: A must-see attraction, tour the Parliament buildings, or watch the Changing of the Guard ceremony.
– Canadian Museum of History: Explore Canada’s rich history and diverse cultures throughout the ages.
– National Gallery of Canada: Art enthusiasts will enjoy the impressive Canadian and international artwork on display, including the famous Maman spider sculpture.
– ByWard Market: A historic marketplace, with unique shops, restaurants, and a vibrant nightlife scene.
– Canadian War Museum: Learn about Canada’s military history through interactive exhibits and artifacts.

Cultural Experiences

In addition to its many attractions, Ottawa offers plenty of cultural experiences that are worth exploring:

– National Arts Centre: Enjoy world-class concerts, plays, ballets, and operas in an iconic venue.
– Rideau Hall: This official residence of the Governor General of Canada features manicured gardens, tours, and events.
– Canadian Tulip Festival: Every May, Ottawa hosts the largest tulip festival in the world, in honor of Canada’s role in the liberation of the Netherlands during World War II.

Dining Spots

No visit to Ottawa is complete without indulging in some of Canada’s traditional dishes, such as poutine. There are plenty of dining spots that serve traditional Canadian cuisine and more, including:

– Zak’s Diner: A retro diner-style restaurant that serves up comfort food and traditional milkshakes.
– Play Food & Wine: A chic restaurant featuring locally sourced cuisine and extensive wine and cocktail menus.
– El Camino: A trendy taco and tequila joint with a vibrant atmosphere and creative menu.

Off the Beaten Path Suggestions

If you’re looking to get a unique perspective on Ottawa, consider visiting these hidden gems:

– Diefenbunker Museum: A museum housed in a Cold War-era nuclear bunker that provides insight into Canadian history during the 1950s and 60s.
– Central Experimental Farm: A vast agricultural research facility that also doubles as a scenic escape. Spend time wandering through blooming gardens or visiting animal exhibits.
– Gatineau Park: A recreational area and nature reserve just across the Ottawa River that is perfect for hiking, skiing, and exploring.

Conclusion

Getting around Ottawa is easy and convenient, with plenty of options available for every type of traveler. From public transportation to biking, walking, and more, you’re sure to get to wherever you want to with ease – allowing you to focus on enjoying all the attractions, cultural experiences, and dining spots available in Canada’s beautiful capital city.