Top 17 places to visit in Ottawa

The Rideau Canal is a historic waterway that stretches over 202 kilometres, connecting Ottawa to Kingston. Built in the early 19th century as a military supply route, it features a series of locks and is lined with greenery, making it a picturesque part of the city’s landscape. In winter, the canal transforms into the world's largest skating rink, attracting locals and tourists alike. Summer offers opportunities for boating and cycling along the adjacent pathways. The ByWard Market is nearby, providing a lively spot for refreshments and local artisans, adding to the overall experience.

Parliament Hill is the seat of Canada's government, a collection of impressive Gothic Revival buildings set atop a bluff overlooking the Ottawa River. Dominated by the iconic Peace Tower, the complex dates back to the late 19th century and serves as a symbol of Canadian democracy, hosting official ceremonies and public gatherings. The grounds attract visitors year-round, with guided tours of the Centre Block and its impressive interiors. Summer is peak season, when tourists can experience the Changing of the Guard ceremony and the nightly sound and light show. The nearby ByWard Market offers dining and shopping options just a short walk away.

The Royal Canadian Mint is a striking facility located in downtown Ottawa, known for producing Canada’s coinage and commemorative medallions. Opened in 1908 and featuring an impressive granite façade, the Mint also houses a visitor centre where you can see the processes behind minting, including the handling of raw materials and the striking of coins. Plan to spend about an hour here, which allows for a guided tour and a chance to see the massive gold bullion bar in the display. Nearby, the National Gallery of Canada and the ByWard Market provide additional cultural entertainment and dining options, making for a well-rounded visit.

Gatineau is a city in Quebec situated directly across the Ottawa River from Canada’s capital, known for its rich cultural scene and proximity to natural beauty. A key attraction here is the Canadian Museum of History, which displays artifacts from Canada’s past within an impressive structure designed by architect Douglas Cardinal. Visit in the summer for outdoor festivals or enjoy winter activities at Gatineau Park, which offers hiking trails and ski slopes. The city is connected to Ottawa by several bridges, making it easy to explore the twin cities, and the view of Parliament Hill from Jacques-Cartier Park is particularly striking.

ByWard Market is a historic market area in Ottawa, established in 1826, known for its vibrant atmosphere and diverse offerings. Visitors encounter a mix of local artisans, food vendors, and restaurants housed in charming heritage buildings, with the iconic market sign arching overhead as a focal point. Plan to explore the market in the morning or early afternoon when the stalls are fully stocked, and tasting local delicacies is best. Nearby, the National Gallery of Canada and Parliament Hill are within easy walking distance, making for a balanced day of culture and culinary delights.

The National Gallery of Canada is a striking glass and granite structure completed in 1988, situated on Sussex Drive. It houses an extensive collection of Canadian and Indigenous art, alongside significant works from Europe and America, making it a prominent institution in the Canadian cultural landscape. The soaring atrium welcomes visitors with natural light, highlighting the artworks within. Plan for a couple of hours to explore the diverse exhibitions and the captivating sculpture garden outside. It's best visited during weekdays to avoid larger crowds, and the nearby ByWard Market offers a lively atmosphere with dining options and local crafts just a short walk away.

Ottawa Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica is the largest church in Canada, showcasing Gothic Revival architecture with its stunning twin spires soaring 87 metres. Completed in 1885, this basilica features intricate stained glass windows and a remarkable interior adorned with gold details, making it a significant landmark in the nation’s capital. Visiting the cathedral is best done during the day when the natural light enhances the beauty of its interior. Guided tours offer insightful commentary, but the serene atmosphere makes a quiet moment of contemplation worthwhile. Nearby, you can explore the historic ByWard Market area for a taste of local life.

Gatineau Park is a vast expanse of natural beauty just across the river from Ottawa, encompassing over 361 square kilometres of woodlands, hills, and numerous lakes. Established in 1938, it features a mix of indigenous and post-colonial landscapes, with plenty of trails and viewing points overlooking the Ottawa Valley. The park is ideal for hiking and cycling in the warmer months, while winter offers cross-country skiing and snowshoeing opportunities. Popular spots include Pink Lake and the Champlain Lookout, where panoramic views await. Keep an eye out for wildlife, including deer and a variety of birds, especially during quiet afternoons.

The Canadian Museum of Nature is a prominent natural history museum housed in a castle-like structure built in the late 19th century, featuring stunning architecture designed by Thomas Fuller and Chilion Jones. Its vast exhibits cover a range of topics, from fossils and dinosaurs to Canadian wildlife and ecosystems, all framed within a striking setting. Allow at least three hours to explore the four floors of galleries, with highlights including the impressive dinosaur skeletons and interactive displays. Visit during weekdays for a quieter experience, and don't miss the nearby Confederation Park for a scenic stroll afterward.

The Ottawa Locks, built between 1832 and 1836, are a series of five consecutive locks on the Rideau Canal, connecting the Ottawa River to the canal. This historic site, designated a UNESCO World Heritage site, showcases the engineering ingenuity of the 19th century, with stone locks that raise and lower boats over a height of 24.5 metres. Visiting the locks provides a glimpse into the canal's crucial role in transportation and commerce during its heyday. The best time to come is during the summer months when the locks are operational and boat traffic is at its peak. The adjacent ByWard Market offers a lively atmosphere with shops and dining options to explore afterward.

The Canadian Museum of History is a striking building with a wave-like façade, designed by architect Douglas Cardinal, that rises beside the Ottawa River. Opened in 1989, it houses extensive exhibits detailing the social and political history of Canada, including indigenous cultures, providing a comprehensive look at the nation's past and present. Plan for at least two to three hours to explore the galleries, including a visit to the Grand Hall, which features a stunning collection of indigenous totem poles. The museum is ideally visited in spring or autumn when weather permits a pleasant stroll along the riverbank. Nearby, the Canadian War Museum offers further insight into the country’s military history.

The Canada Aviation and Space Museum is home to an extensive collection of aircraft and artefacts that chronicle Canada’s aviation history, housed in a sprawling complex near the Ottawa River. Highlighting over 130 aircraft, visitors can see significant machines like the Avro Arrow and various military and civilian planes from different eras. Allocate a few hours to explore the various exhibits, including interactive displays and a flight simulator. The museum is less crowded on weekdays, making it an ideal time to visit. Nearby attractions include the Ottawa River pathways and the Canadian Museum of History just across the river.

Rideau Hall is the official residence of the Governor General of Canada, an expansive estate set on 88 acres of landscaped gardens and grounds. The building, completed in 1838, showcases various architectural styles, predominantly Second Empire, and is notable for its role in Canadian history and diplomacy. Take time to explore the surrounding gardens and art installations, especially in the summer when the grounds are in full bloom. Guided tours of the hall provide insights into the history and significance of the site, while the nearby ByWard Market offers a lively atmosphere for dining and shopping. The changing of the guard ceremony adds a moment of tradition to your visit.

The Canadian War Museum is a striking modern structure, opened in 2005, that houses an extensive collection of military artifacts and personal stories that span Canada's military history. Visitors are greeted by the impressive glass and weathered steel façade, symbolizing the country's resilience, and once inside, they can explore various exhibits covering conflicts from the First World War to contemporary missions. Set aside a couple of hours to fully engage with the displays, particularly the dioramas that vividly depict significant battles. The museum is located near the parliamentary precinct, making it convenient to combine the visit with a stroll around the National War Memorial or the nearby Rideau Canal. A quiet moment in the outdoor spaces can be a moving contrast to the museum's powerful narratives.

Confederation Square is a central public space in Ottawa, spanning several acres and flanked by notable buildings such as the National War Memorial and the Château Laurier hotel. Established in the early 20th century, it serves as a hub for national celebrations and commemorative events, underscoring its significance in Canada's history. Visitors often enjoy the lively atmosphere, especially during Canada Day festivities or Winterlude. The square connects to the Rideau Canal, which offers scenic walks year-round. Pay attention to the numerous sculptures that add a cultural touch; the square can be less crowded in the early morning or late evening.

The Peace Tower is a prominent clock tower located at the north end of Parliament Hill in Ottawa, completed in 1927 in the Gothic Revival style. Standing at 92 metres, it serves as a memorial to Canadian soldiers and houses the carillon, making it both a visual and auditory landmark in the capital. Visiting is best done during the summer months when the gardens surrounding Parliament are in full bloom. The tower offers guided tours with an observation deck providing vistas of the Ottawa River and downtown. The sound of the carillon plays every quarter-hour, adding a historic resonance to the surroundings.

Preston Street, known as Little Italy, is Ottawa's gastronomic hub, rich with Italian heritage and culture. The area features charming cafés, gelaterias, and restaurants housed in both historic and modern buildings, offering the essence of Italy right in the capital. The annual Italian Festival draws locals and visitors alike, celebrating the community's vibrant traditions. Visit during the summer months when the street comes alive with outdoor dining and lively street performances. A leisurely stroll will lead you to adjacent neighborhoods like Chinatown and Dow's Lake, where scenic views await. Keep an eye out for the murals that reflect the area's history and culture.