What are the best things to do in Ottawa for tourists?

Ottawa is a vibrant and exciting city with plenty of amazing things to do that can make your stay unforgettable. From historical sights, fine dining, unique shopping opportunities and incredible outdoor recreation, there is something for everyone. Whether you are visiting with family or friends, there is no shortage of great experiences in Canada’s capital.

Explore World-Class Museums

One of the most iconic sights in Ottawa is the majestic Parliament Hill. The beautiful buildings are home to many exciting exhibits and tours, like the Changing of the Guard and a look inside the House of Commons. The Hill is surrounded by the Byward Market, which offers hundreds of stalls with fresh produce, artisan goods, restaurants and a lively street art scene.

The National Gallery of Canada is located right next to Parliament Hill and is the perfect place to discover works from some of the finest Canadian artists like Tom Thomson and Jacques-Louis David. The Canadian Museum of History holds a number unique artifacts from Canadian history, from ancient archeological finds to modern-day memorabilia.

Experience the Outdoor Adventures

Ottawa offers a lot of great outdoor adventures for visitors. The Rideau Canal is a major attraction, running through downtown and providing cyclists, runners and walkers the opportunity to explore in one of the world’s longest skating rinks in the winter.

There are many great parks near Ottawa, such as Gatineau Park. The park offers amazing views, hiking trails and plenty of opportunities for swimming and canoeing. Head to the Ottawa River for an amazing day of sailing, fishing and water sports.

Enjoy a World-Class Culinary Scene

Ottawa’s dining scene has been gaining attention lately and offers visitors a diverse array of restaurants and bars. Head to Elgin Street Diner for some classic Canadian comfort food or hit up Play Food & Wine for some modern takes on classic dishes. If you are looking for something truly unique, one must try Titanic Bistro & Wine Bar located near Byward Market that features modern interpretations of classic French cuisine.

Shop Until You Drop

Byward Market has been around for hundreds of years and is one of the city’s favorite places to shop. The market features over 400 vendors and includes some unique finds, like handmade jewelry and locally crafted items from around Ottawa. The Bayshore Shopping Centre is Ottawa’s premier mall, filled with a variety of stores and restaurants. Nearby is Sparks Street Mall which houses more than 150 stores, galleries, restaurants and pubs.

Ottawa is Full Of Surprises!

When you come to Ottawa, you never know what surprise it has in store for you. From world-class museums to outdoor recreation, amazing restaurants and unique shopping opportunities, Ottawa offers something for everyone. So don’t miss out on any of the excitement that this city has to offer – come explore all that it has to offer! For more information about what to see and do in Ottawa, visit Ottawa Tourism.

An Insider’s Guide to Ottawa, Canada

Ottawa, the capital city of Canada, is a beautiful multicultural destination showcasing a rich history and diverse cultural offerings. With a plethora of parks, museums, festivals, and landmarks, Ottawa is a great place for tourists to explore and enjoy. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you discover the best things to do and experience in the city.

Local Attractions

If you’re looking to experience Ottawa’s best attractions, here are some must-see spots to add to your itinerary:

– Parliament Hill: Home to the Canadian government, Parliament Hill is an iconic landmark that features stunning Gothic-style architecture, guided tours, and the daily Changing of the Guard ceremony in the summer months.
– Rideau Canal: A UNESCO World Heritage site, Rideau Canal offers scenic views of the Ottawa River and connects downtown Ottawa to the charming community of Old Ottawa South. In the winter, the canal transforms into the world’s longest skating rink.
– National Gallery of Canada: Featuring one of the most extensive Canadian art collections, the National Gallery of Canada showcases over 40,000 works of art, including contemporary and Indigenous art.
– ByWard Market: A vibrant outdoor market in the heart of downtown, ByWard Market offers a wide variety of artisan goods, fresh produce, restaurants, and nightlife.

Dining Spots

Ottawa’s culinary scene is diverse, with plenty of options to satisfy every palate. Here are a few of the best dining spots in the city:

– El Camino: This trendy taqueria is known for its creative tacos and cocktails.
– Fauna: A farm-to-table concept focusing on local ingredients, Fauna offers a constantly changing menu that showcases the best of Ottawa’s seasonal cuisine.
– Sansotei Ramen: With a simple menu featuring traditional Japanese ramen dishes, Sansotei has quickly become a local favourite.
– Play Food & Wine: This restaurant offers small plates featuring the best of local and international flavours, with an extensive wine list to match.

Cultural Experiences

Ottawa is home to many cultural offerings, including museums, festivals, and performing arts centres. Here are some of the best cultural experiences to enjoy in Ottawa:

– The Canadian Museum of History: Located in nearby Gatineau, Quebec, the museum features exhibits and artifacts showcasing the history of Canada and its people.
– The National Arts Centre: The premier performing arts centre in Ottawa, the National Arts Centre features a wide variety of shows and events ranging from symphonies and ballet to theatre and comedy.
– Ottawa Jazz Festival: This internationally celebrated festival features five days of live jazz performances in downtown Ottawa every summer.
– Tulip Festival: Every spring, Ottawa celebrates its Dutch heritage with a beautiful display of over one million tulips in various gardens throughout the city.

Local History

Ottawa has a rich history dating back thousands of years, with a past that includes Indigenous communities, European explorers, and Canadian Confederation. Here are some ways to explore Ottawa’s history:

– Canadian War Museum: This museum showcases Canada’s military history dating back to the French and Indian War.
– Diefenbunker: Built during the Cold War, Diefenbunker is a four-story underground bunker designed to protect the Canadian government in the event of a nuclear attack.
– Laurier House: Home to two of Canada’s Prime Ministers, Wilfred Laurier, and William Lyon Mackenzie King, Laurier House offers guided tours and artefacts dating back to the late 19th century.
– Rideau Hall: The Official Residence of the Governor-General of Canada, Rideau Hall offers guided tours of the beautiful grounds and the opportunity to see the changing of the guard ceremony.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

For those looking to step off the beaten path, here are some lesser-known spots in Ottawa worth exploring:

– Gatineau Park: Located just north of downtown, Gatineau Park offers a beautiful escape from the city with plenty of hiking trails, lakes, and scenic viewpoints.
– Lusk Cave: Located in the scenic Gatineau Park, Lusk Cave is a challenging and exciting self-guided caving adventure.
– Bank of Canada Museum: Learn about the history and functions of the Bank of Canada at this interactive museum featuring currency displays, interactive exhibits, and more.
– Arboretum: Located on the western edge of downtown, the Arboretum is a peaceful park featuring ornamental gardens, walking trails, and over 1,700 species of trees and shrubs.

In conclusion, Ottawa has plenty of local attractions, dining spots, and cultural experiences just waiting to be explored. From Parliament Hill to Gatineau Park, there’s something for everyone in this vibrant capital city. So, come to Ottawa and experience all it has to offer!