Effortlessly charming and brimming with adventure, Ottawa has even more to it than your average capital city. It’s a dynamic destination boasting architectural grandeur and historical attractions alongside a welcoming atmosphere, so it’s no surprise that visitors flock to its spellbinding Ontarian streets each year.
Whether you’re in town to test your skills on the ice, or to experience world-class galleries, there’s something for every taste here. To help you narrow down the options, we have curated a list of the best things to do in Ottawa. Here’s how to get stuck into everything this breathtaking city has to offer.
National Gallery of Canada
As the nation’s leading art gallery, you know you’re in for something spectacular when you tour the National Gallery of Canada. These gilded halls have added numerous treasures since they opened in 1880 – and today they are filled with 75,000 works of art. This eclectic centre studies and preserves many different forms of expression, meaning there is something to satisfy any art connoisseur’s creative taste.
The Scotiabank Great Hall is completely charming, and a work of art in its own right. With grand windows, the light of the heavens spill through in a perfectly dramatic fashion. The Rideau Street Chapel showcases more extravagant architecture, such as a reconstruction of Our Lady of Sacred Hearts boarding school.
To experience something a little different, visit the Forty-Part Motet, a sculpture that rises with walls of enchanting sound. You can also learn about artistic heritage or explore the issues of our times through the works of skilled photographers such as Oscar G. Rejlander.
Parliament Hill
Dreamlike and spellbinding, Parliament Hill is Downtown Ottawa’s crowning glory. This is where the Parliament of Canada is housed in a suite of remarkable Gothic buildings that are a wonder to behold. To experience fantastic views of the towers and turrets, park up on the western banks of the Ottawa River and stroll along Voyageurs Pathway. The emblematic Peace Tower stands with pride above the waters, enticing passers-by to venture across.
There is a Changing of the Guard ceremony and a multimedia Northern Lights show each evening during the summer months. Visit on a Wednesday and you can even join in with those who gather to practice yoga on Parliament Hill. Though snow makes this landscape magical in the winter, the laid-back atmosphere during summer is unlike any other government headquarters on earth.
Canadian Museum of History
From traditions in art and politics to a treasure trove of national history, Ottawa’s passion for heritage is infectious. The Canadian Museum of History is the most popular in the country, attracting more than a million visitors every year.
The institution’s aims include educating and enhancing Canadians’ appreciation of local and world history, but 3D hi-tech spectacles can also transport you into the future. Drop into the Virtual Museum of New France for a taste of what’s to come, then book online to secure your tickets.
Rideau Canal
When in Ottawa, do as the Ottawans do. Rideau Canal holds a central place in the hearts of the locals. Whether it’s for lazy cruising in summer or romantic winter skating, this is an Ottawan hotspot.
The canal itself is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, weaving its own path through central Ottawa independently of the Rideau River and connected waterfalls. There are many ways to experience this charming canal, including a simple stroll along the pathways that frame each bank. On this journey, you’ll pass many key sites, including the sports venues at Lansdowne Park and the Share the Flame Monument. More museums, convention centres and government buildings are clustered by the beautiful Plaza Bridge, where the canal trail opens onto the Ottawa River.
Canadian Museum of Nature
Another great national museum, this remarkable hub is ideal if you want to delve into the wonders of nature. Bring the whole family to learn about dinosaurs, butterflies and every creature in between.
The Museum of Nature has a fossil gallery, Inuit cultural exhibitions and the opportunity to come face-to-face with the fascinating creatures that dwell here, including the resident sloth. There are several special exhibitions each year, plus awe-inspiring movie screenings. Scientists and students can explore the twin science centre, where a vast library of archives and a liquid nitrogen facility help craft the exhibitions of the future.
Notre Dame Cathedral-Basilica
This lofty structure is a Roman Catholic basilica that was built in the 1840s. Its architecture is intricate, and the iconic gilded statue of the Virgin Mary that sits atop the exterior wall was designed by Spanish artist Carbona. Inside, there are even more treasures to discover. Gothic arches separate majestic galleries and the bright, ornamental sanctuary is the pride of the site.
To absorb the full effects of this marvellous building, it’s necessary to step inside. You can experience a mass service in English or French and can book a guided tour by contacting the office.
ByWard Market
A retail centre with real personality, the ByWard Market is a key Ottawa destination for shopping, dining and entertainment. The outdoor market is a delight to explore, and has been serving the Ottawan community since 1826. This site is perfectly in sync with the Rideau Canal, since both attractions were constructed by Lieutenant-Colonel John By. The market is open every day except December 25th and January 1st, so there’s plenty of opportunity to sample local food, discover interesting books and pick up beautiful trinkets from independent retailers.
The buildings surrounding the market are integral to the ByWard experience. Step into quaint boutiques, exciting museums or see street art festivals that bring the square to life. The culinary staples are local cheese and maple-infused chocolate, but you can also try more extravagant delicacies. Fried pastry BeaverTails reflect the Ontarian love of nature. Once the sun sets, meanwhile, a cool mix of taverns keep the streets alive.
Whether you’re in Ottawa for business, romance or to experience capital attractions as part of a relaxing city break, car rental is the ideal way to explore the varied and exciting attractions of the city.