Canada’s Capital City Welcomes You

When conjuring up images of Canada, the Rocky Mountains or the CN Tower might come to mind first. Canada’s capital city, Ottawa, rarely lands in the top five of most Canadian travel bucket lists. I would know–I’ve written some of those. But suppose you’re looking for a city break with lots of outdoor adventures, history, and great food served with a side of Canadian charm. In that case, Ottawa is undoubtedly a destination that deserves a look.

I have to confess, when I tell people that I live in Ottawa, I don’t get much feedback. No commentary, no blasting me with some fast facts that they know about Canada’s capital city, nothing. When I’m on the road and people find out I’m Canadian, the most typical reply that I get is “Where? Toronto? Vancouver? Edmonton?” Then, they tell me about their second cousin or sibling who moved to one of those cities. Or, if I mention my hometown of Montreal, I get the inevitable “Quebec! So, you are French!” Then they proceed to speak French at me. (spoiler alert: my mother tongue is English).

The truth is, Canada’s capital city welcomes you. Here’s a glimpse at what Ottawa offers travelers. And once you visit, you’ll book your next trip back in no time!

See the Rideau Canal: The World’s Largest Skating Rink

Perfect for summer strolls and winter skates, the Rideau Canal is actually an entire 125-mile-long canal linking the Ottawa River with Lake Ontario in the city of Kingston. Its most famed section is in downtown Ottawa. You can’t miss it, as its starting point is right by the iconic Fairmont Chateau Laurier Hotel. Fun fact: The canal is one of the two UNESCO World Heritage Sites in the whole province of Ontario.

When the canal freezes over in the wintertime, it transforms into the world’s largest skating rink. 4.8 miles of the canal are open to the public to skate and enjoy the views of downtown Ottawa and the surrounding areas. Locals even use it to skate to work. Can you get more Canadian? I don’t think so.

Rideau Canal

Parliament Hill

 Ottawa’s beautiful Parliament Hill houses Canada’s three major federal government buildings. Built between 1859 and 1876, the Parliament Buildings are the city’s focal point, proudly standing in all of their Neo-Gothic glory.

On your trip to Ottawa, definitely spend some time to wander the grounds and admire the well-preserved architecture. Get political and take a tour of the House of Commons, located in the Parliament’s West Block building, which is an historic and newly-renovated room where Canada’s elected members of Parliament hold their meetings.

Experience Ottawa’s Markets

One of the oldest outdoor markets in Canada, the ByWard Market sits in the heart of downtown Ottawa. A visit to the ByWard Market is a perfect way to start your day exploring. From locally owned cheese shops, bakeries, souvenirs, and fresh produce, the ByWard Market offers just about anything your foodie heart desires. You can’t miss the BeaverTails stand, where you’ll get a chance to sample this famous Canadian street snack good. There’s also some great pubs within walking distance of the market like the Heart and Crown and the Laff, Ottawa’s oldest bar that features free live music every night of the week.

If you want to venture further into the city, the Landsdowne Farmers Market in the Glebe is open every Sunday and offers plenty of delicious produce and artisanal goods from farmers in the Ottawa region. Chat with local artisans and soak up all that Canadian kindness before heading the Happy Goat Cafe in the Glebe. This little cafe is all cozy 1990s vibes and serves up the best tamales and oat milk lattes.

The ByWard Market Photo: Shutterstock

The National Arts Centre

Just a short walk down from the Parliament Buildings, the National Arts Center welcomes world-renowned artists from all over the globe. It’s the home of Ottawa’s performing arts scene and often hosts free workshops, from dance to theatre to outdoor workout sessions and more. Check them out to see if there will be anything interesting in town for your visit.

The Best Ottawa Museums

Ottawa arguably boasts some of the most impressive museums in all of Canada. From art to history to kid-friendly interactive exhibits, there’s something for everyone.

 The National Gallery of Canada

One of Ottawa’s top attractions that houses world-class art, from photography, sculpture, paintings, multimedia installations and more. Level 1 houses work from Indigenous and Canadian artists past to present, and Level 2 is European and U.S. American work from the Renaissance era to contemporary. Come and revel at the Maman sculpture that stands at the front of the museum-a 30-foot tall sculpture made with bronze, stainless steel, and marble that’s a depiction of a spider carrying her eggs.

Canadian Science and Technology Museum

I probably went to this museum every summer as a kid and I’m happy to report that it’s still bringing joy to everyone who visits. The fun and immersive exhibits which cover Canada’s contribution to science and technology over the years are a favorite among kids and adults alike. One of the highlight’s is definitely the “Crazy Kitchen”, a room that’s tilted to one side, so it gives you a serious case of the dizzies when you walk through it!

The Canadian Museum of History

Not technically in Ottawa proper but just across the river in Gatineau, the Canadian Museum of History covers everything from anthropology to history to culture. One of the popular ongoing exhibitions right now is The Canadian Stamp Collection, an interactive exhibit where you can learn about the 3,000+ stamps issued throughout Canada’s history and the stories that accompany them.

Designed by Indigenous architect Douglas Cardinal, the museum’s striking, modern design is a beloved part of the Ottawa skyline.

Downtown Ottawa

Where to Stay in Ottawa

 Housing the biggest and brightest who’ve passed through Canada’s capital city over the past 100+ years, the Fairmont Chateau Laurier remains the go-to place after all these years.

Hospitality Awaits in Ottawa

As you can see, Ottawa has so much to offer every type of traveler. While it might still be a little under the radar, Canada’s capital city is a surprising travel destination filled with unique things to see and experience. Experience the warm hospitality of Canada’s capital city. Remember, you’re welcome in Ottawa any time of year!

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