Best Places to Visit in Ottawa – Canada’s Capital Highlights
Introduction:
Canada’s capital, Ottawa, is a dynamic fusion of culture, history, and scenic beauty. There are many best places to visit in Ottawa, including national institutions, historical sites, and a vibrant cultural community. Discover the best of Ottawa with this guide, featuring famous Parliament Hill, picturesque canal pathways, and top-notch museums.
How to Reach Ottawa
By Air:
- Ottawa Macdonald-Cartier International Airport (YOW): Ottawa’s main airport, which is used for many local and international flights. The airport offers public transportation, taxis, and rental cars.
By Train:
- VIA Rail: Regular trains from large cities like Toronto, Montreal, and Quebec City are available to Ottawa. Conveniently situated and well-connected to the city core is the Ottawa rail station.
By Bus:
- Greyhound and Megabus: Provide bus services from a number of Ontario and Quebecian cities to Ottawa. With its central location, the major bus terminal offers quick access to all of the city’s attractions.
By Car:
- Highways 417 and 416: Major roads that link Ottawa to other regions of Ontario and Quebec. Traveling by car to Ottawa provides you with freedom and the chance to see the surrounding areas.
Best Time to Visit
- Spring (March to May): Enjoy the blooming tulips during the Canadian Tulip Festival and mild weather for sightseeing.
- Summer (June to August): Ideal for outdoor activities, festivals, and exploring the city’s parks and waterways.
- Fall (September to November): Experience beautiful fall foliage, fewer crowds, and pleasant temperatures.
- Winter (December to February): Embrace winter activities like ice skating on the Rideau Canal and visiting Winterlude, a popular winter festival.
Top Destinations: Best Places to Visit in Ottawa
- Parliament Hill: The capital of the federal government of Canada, with its magnificent Gothic Revival architecture and daily Changing of the Guard ceremonies. The Parliament buildings provide free guided tours that you shouldn’t miss.
- Rideau Canal: A UNESCO World Heritage site, the canal offers scenic boat tours in the summer and transforms into the world’s largest skating rink in the winter.
- National Gallery of Canada: Home to an extensive collection of Canadian and international art, including the iconic “Maman” sculpture by Louise Bourgeois.
- ByWard Market: One of Canada’s oldest and largest public markets, offering fresh produce, artisanal goods, and a vibrant atmosphere with shops, restaurants, and bars.
- Canadian Museum of History: This museum, which is situated in Gatineau, directly across the Ottawa River, uses engaging exhibitions and interactive displays to highlight Canada’s rich cultural heritage and historical background.
- Canadian War Museum: Dedicated to Canada’s military history, this museum features extensive exhibits on wars, conflicts, and peacekeeping missions.
- Royal Canadian Mint: Take a guided tour to learn about the coin-making process and see where Canada’s circulation coins are produced.
- Diefenbunker: Designed to shield government leaders from a nuclear attack, Canada’s Cold War Museum is housed in an underground bunker that provides a unique look into the history of the Cold War.
- Gatineau Park: A vast park offering hiking, cycling, and cross-country skiing trails, as well as stunning viewpoints like Champlain Lookout.
- Canadian Museum of Nature: Explore natural history exhibits, including dinosaur skeletons, minerals, and a live animal gallery.
Where to Stay
Luxury:
- Fairmont Château Laurier: An iconic hotel located near Parliament Hill, offering luxurious accommodations and historic charm.
- Andaz Ottawa ByWard Market: A modern hotel with stylish rooms and a rooftop lounge offering panoramic city views.
Mid-Range:
- Lord Elgin Hotel: A well-rated hotel in the heart of downtown Ottawa, known for its comfortable rooms and excellent service.
- The Westin Ottawa: Located near the Rideau Canal, this hotel offers modern amenities and easy access to major attractions.
Budget:
- HI Ottawa Jail Hostel: A unique hostel set in a former jail, offering budget-friendly accommodations and an interesting historical experience.
- Econo Lodge Downtown East: Provides affordable lodging with basic amenities and a convenient location.
Local Cuisine
- Beavertails: A popular Canadian pastry shaped like a beaver’s tail, typically topped with cinnamon sugar, chocolate, or other sweet toppings.
- Poutine: A classic Canadian dish of fries topped with cheese curds and gravy, available at various eateries throughout the city.
- Maple Syrup Products: Sample maple syrup, candies, and other maple-flavored treats at local markets and shops.
- Shawarma: Ottawa is known for its delicious shawarma, with many local spots serving this flavorful Middle Eastern dish.
- Canadian Craft Beer: Explore Ottawa’s vibrant craft beer scene with visits to local breweries and pubs.
Shopping in Ottawa
- ByWard Market: Explore a variety of shops selling local produce, crafts, and souvenirs in this historic market area.
- Rideau Centre: A major shopping mall in downtown Ottawa, featuring a range of retail stores, restaurants, and services.
- Sparks Street Mall: A pedestrian shopping street offering boutiques, cafes, and seasonal markets.
- Glebe Neighbourhood: Known for its eclectic shops, vintage stores, and specialty boutiques.
- Westboro Village: A trendy area with a mix of independent shops, outdoor gear stores, and artisanal food shops.
Travel Tips
- Safety: Ottawa is a safe city, but it’s always wise to stay aware of your surroundings and keep an eye on your belongings.
- Transportation: Ottawa has an efficient public transportation system, including buses and the O-Train light rail. Taxis and ride-sharing services are also available.
- Language: Both English and French are widely spoken in Ottawa. Most residents and service providers are bilingual.
- Weather: Ottawa experiences four distinct seasons, so pack accordingly. Winters can be very cold, so bring warm clothing if visiting during that time.
- Local Etiquette: Canadians are known for their politeness. A friendly attitude and respectful behavior will enhance your experience in Ottawa.
