1. National Diet Building
As the seat of Canada’s federal government and the site of national celebrations throughout the year, Parliament Buildings is Ottawa’s most visited tourist attraction. Guided tours are free and include visits to the Senate, House of Commons, Eastern Block and Parliament: An Immersive Experience. Tickets must be booked in advance.
2. The country’s cultural attractions
Ottawa’s cultural attractions, museums and galleries allow you to experience the best of Canada under one roof. From the stunning National Gallery of Canada, home to world-class artworks, to the dramatic Canadian War Museum, these are places where Canadian culture comes to life.
3. ByWard Market
A historic farmers market and shopping district by day, and a popular restaurant and clubbing hotspot at night, the ByWard Market, just east of Parliament Building, is an Ottawa neighborhood not to be missed.
4. Rideau Canal, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
A historic waterway that’s popular with boaters from spring to fall and the world’s largest natural ice skating rink in winter, the Rideau Canal winds through Ottawa’s city center and connects to the Ottawa River through a dramatic series of stepped locks right next to Parliament Buildings.
5. Outdoor – Adventure
Enjoy rafting or kayaking on the Ottawa River, one of the most beautiful rivers on the continent, followed by a bungee jump. The Ottawa region is also a cycling enthusiast’s dream destination, with nearly 800 kilometers (497 miles) of recreational trails connecting natural areas, parks, gardens and national monuments.
6. Festivals
Ottawa is a city of celebrations, with parties, festivals and special events all year round. See more than one million tulips and enjoy special programs at various locations around the city during the Canada Tulip Festival in May. The country’s biggest party, Canada Day, takes place on July 1st. The city also hosts a number of music festivals featuring some of the world’s biggest artists, including the Ottawa Jazz Festival, the Ottawa Chamber Festival and the Ottawa Blues Festival. In winter, Canada hosts Winterlude and skates on the Rideau Canal Skateway, the world’s largest ice rink.
7. Foodie Scene
Ottawa’s culinary scene is thriving, with a vibrant Ottawa chef community and a diverse array of restaurants that are renowned nationally and internationally. To experience multiple locations in one outing, book a dining tour of one of Ottawa’s great neighbourhoods; Ottawa Tasting Tours and Experience Food will take care of all the arrangements. Or join C’est Bon Ottawa on a guided gourmet food tour of grocery stores, farmers’ markets and restaurants; the delicious options are endless.
8. Performing Arts
The capital’s premier performing arts venue, the National Arts Centre, hosts a full lineup of music, dance and theatre, plus popular touring productions and shows. Ottawa also has a vibrant local theatre scene, including the Great Canadian Theatre Company, Ottawa Little Theatre, The Gladstone and La Nouvelle Scene.
9. City tour
Ottawa is packed with capital city sights and attractions, and there are almost as many ways to explore and see them. Experience a land and water tour with Lady Dive Amphibus or enjoy a relaxing cruise on the Ottawa River or Rideau Canal. Join a walking or cycling tour based on your activity level and interests to experience the city’s sights up close.
10. Neighborhood/Shopping
Ottawa’s unique neighbourhoods offer distinctive shopping, dining and nightlife experiences across the nation’s capital. From the must-see Byward Market area to the community vibe of Glebe and trendy Wellington West, Ottawa’s diverse neighbourhoods are packed with local vibes.
Why not round off your experience with a taste of Canadian specialities? Check out our page “Canadian Cuisine in Ottawa” for some recommendations.
