Ottawa
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.
Most of us probably remember from history class that Spanish explorers brought horses to North America in the 14th century. Many people are surprised to learn native horses existed before the Spanish arrived, at least in Canada. Ojibwe Spirit Horses, also known as Lac La Croix Indigenous Ponies, are the only known indigenous horse breed native to Canada. Thousands of them lived in harmony with Indigenous communities in (mainly) Northern and Western Ontario and roamed the forests that surround Lac Le Croix.
The Parliament building in Ottawa stands as a regal expression of patriotism and tradition. By day, visitors can witness the impressive Changing of the Guards ceremony, a time-honored tradition that showcases the precision and discipline of Canada's military.
The Changing of the Guards at Parliament Hill in Ottawa is a time-honored tradition that captivates visitors daily at 10:30 a.m. This 30-minute ceremony is a grand display of precision, discipline, and Canadian heritage, reflecting the deep-rooted customs of the nation's military history.
