10+ Best Things to do in Ottawa, Ontario (by a Canadian)
Last Updated on 23rd March 2024 by Sophie Nadeau
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Between its many museums, important government buildings where some of the most important decisions about the inner workings of Canada take place, and a surprising amount of green space, the Canadian capital of Ottawa has a lot more to offer the most discerning traveller than it first might appear. Here’s an insider’s guide to the best things to do in Ottawa, as well as what to know before you go.
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A little history of Ottawa
Canada’s forgotten capital, this laid-back friendly city is filled with green space and natural wonders, as well as rich history, its home to almost 30 museums, and plentiful with art throughout. Ottawa is not your typical city, however its perfect blend of urban and rural makes it a memorable place to visit!
First, a little bit of historical context to how it came to be Canada’s Capital city… Ottawa (originally named Bytown for a Colonel of the same name) In 1855 the name was changed to Ottawa and in 1857 it was chosen to be the capital of Canada by Queen Victoria. The origin of the name ‘Ottawa’ comes from ‘the Algonquin term adawe, “to trade”‘.
Ottawa was the heart of timber trade, with the cities lumbering past it has rich heritage of large industrial operations that really put it on the map in the 19th and 20th centuries.
Best things to do in Ottawa
You may be wondering, if this is Canada’s forgotten capital, then why bother visiting? Not only is Ottawa welcoming in its demeanour, abundant with green spaces and just all-around beautiful, but there are plenty of visitor attractions that are worth visiting, filled with art, history and culture this city has something for everyone!
Visit the Ottawa Parliament
Modelled after the Parliament of the UK in London, England, you can actually visit the Ottawa parliament buildings for free, as part of a guided tour.
After Queen Victoria had chosen Ottawa to be the capital, she then chose the site for the federal buildings, which would be Barrack Hill (originally used to house engineers working on the Rideau Canal).
So as it stands nowadays, located in downtown Ottawa you can find Parliament Hill, known colloquially as ‘The Hill’, on the bank of the Ottawa River. The grand complex is made up of three buildings, West block, Centre block and East block, and is unquestionably one of the world’s most important examples of the Gothic Revival style of architecture.
The Centre block, arguably the most important of the complex, was actually destroyed by a fire in 1916 and all that remained was the library. The building is currently undergoing extensive renovations, but it’s possible to book a free interactive tour and peek inside virtually.
Hidden behind the Centre block is the majestic Library of Parliament, filled with knowledge it is the main repository and research resource for the Parliament of Canada. Although the public can’t borrow physical books, there’s a digital archive that you can access online and have a browse of.
The most dominant feature of Parliament Hill is that of the Peace Tower, which bears a strong resemblance to Big Ben’s Elizabeth tower and is widely recognised as one of Canada’s most emblematic symbols.
Walking through buildings that are bustling with civiil servants, the walls are lined with portraits of former prime ministers, you can sense the importance these buildings have in how the country is run. It’s definitely a worthwhile visit when in Ottawa!
See the changing of the guard
And while we’re on the subject of Parliament Hill, every morning from late June through till late August, a colourful spectacle of Canadian military forces accompanied by music takes place. This ceremonial precession has been tradition since 1959!
The Changing of the Guard is quite literally as its named, its a parade of the changeover of guards posted at Rideau Hall, the official residence of the Canadian monarch, when in Ottawa.
After the march and following a salute, the old guard commander will presents the key of the Guard Room at Rideau Hall to the new guard commander. The parade is quite the display and well worth watching if you happen to be in Ottawa when its happening!
Watch coins being made at the Royal Canadian Mint
Operating since 1908, the Canadian Mint one of the world’s most respected desirable minters of the world where you can watch coins being made live right in front of you!
The building itself is beautiful with carved turrets, the Royal Canadian Mint still occupies the same historic structure it started in, and today they continue to create gold, silver, bullion, collector coins (and probably any other coin you can think of, including medals!).
Tours are available in both French and English and the knowledgable staff will take you through a guided history of the production processes and unique stories of the Mint. You can purchase you ticket on the official website.
Visit Rideau Hall
Since 1867, Rideau Hall has been the home residence of every Governor General of Canada, a place of state affairs, offices and of course, private living quarters.
However, this unusual piece of limestone architecture was built in 1838 by Thomas MacKay, originally as a home for his family. Thomas MacKay was a skilled stonemason who was one of the founders of the city of Ottawa (known then as Bytown) and had involvement in building the entrance locks of the Rideau Canal and the mills at Rideau Falls, hence the choice of name for Rideau Hall.
This important structure is a national historic site where for nearly two centuries of history it has become a gathering place for official activities. For those deeply interested in history and politics, this is a must-see when exploring Ottawa!
If you’re up for a walk, you can take the scenic route along Sussex Drive from Parliament Hill, alternatively you can get there by bicycle, car of public transport.
Visit a museum
There are around 30 museums to explore in and around Ottawa (including seven national museums), making heading to a museum the the perfect place to explore on a rainy day! Most museums listed here have quite a bit of information to take in and so can take quite a while to walk around.
- Canadian War Museum: This is the national museum on the country’s military history, where visitors can gain an educational insight to events, it is also home to a number of memorials and exhibitions. There’s also plenty of interactive elements to the museum to keep visitors engaged.
- National Gallery of Canada: This art museum houses plenty of Canadian art, including works by the Group of Seven.
- Canadian Museum of History: If you want to discover more about the history of Canada, with a particular focus on the First Nations, then you can check out the First Peoples Hall. There’s also a separate children’s museum within the same complex that is perfect for exploring with young children. This museum is located just across the Ottawa River and is technically therefore located within Gatineau, Quebec.
- Canada Science and Technology Museum: This fun and interactive museum details scientific and technological achievements in Canada. Particular highlights include the the giant locomotives and Crazy Kitchen. There’s also a dedicated children’s play area for those travelling with younger visitors. Admission is free daily between 4 and 5 PM.
- Canada Aviation and Space Museum: This hangar shaped building boasts the most extensive aviation collection in the country and you can even enter inside flight simulators.
- Canada Agriculture and Food Museum: This museum is all about food production across Canada. There are regular demonstrations such as butter churning and there are even farm animals like horses, alpacas, rabbits, and goats which live there.
- Canadian Museum of Nature: For a history of the natural world, you’ll want to head to this Canadian institution. Inside, you can expect to find dinosaur replicas, minerals, insects, and even animal skeletons.
Notre Dame Cathedral
The basilica dates all the way back to the 19th-century, meaning that it’s the oldest still-standing church that’s to be found anywhere in Ottawa. Free to visit, enter inside at any given moment and you’ll be greeted by ornate stained glass windows, stone carvings, and plenty of Gothic Revival style architecture. For more information, check out our guide on how to visit the Notre Dame Basilica.
Visit Rideau Falls
Many people don’t realise this, but Ottawa actually has its own waterfall! Located on the fringes of the city, Rideau Falls are a set of two waterfalls which stand at an impressive 11 metres in height and which are divided by an island known as Green Island, which is the location of several important monuments.
Stroll along Rideau Canal
Running through the heart of Ottawa is Rideau Canal, a World Heritage Site and is one of the best preserved examples of a slack water canal. It also happens to boast one of the best views in Ottawa.
The canal is connected to Ottawa River by a series of eight massive locks, and watching the impressive use of water technology for the boats to make their way up the waterway is a sight to behold! (For context, the slack water system meant engineers built dams to drown rapids along the route, rather than cutting a canal around those rapids, which also made the canal easier and less expensive to build).
Rideau Canal is a highlight to experience when visiting Ottawa! There are dedicated multi-use pathways running along either side where you can stroll along or cycle, taking in the scenic view of the city.
One of the best ways to experience Rideau Canal is in Winter, where the canal freezes over and becomes the ‘largest naturally frozen ice rink’. Not only is this a great spot to enjoy a day out and sip on hot chocolate, but you can also see the locals taking advantage of this nifty mode of transport and ice skating to work!
Eat a Beaver tail
You may have read ‘beaver tail’ and imagine the furry creature as some kind of Canadian delicacy…but don’t worry its not quite like that.
This uniquely Canadian tradition is a deep-fried dough pastry that’s stretched into the shape of a beavers tail, usually topped with sweet or savoury ingredients, it has been a staple sweet treat since 1978.
When visiting Ottawa an absolute must try is the classic BeaverTail, coated in cinnamon and sugar this delicious sugary delight is the perfect snack to enjoy as you walk along Rideau Canal and think about which sight you’re going to see next!
Visit Byward Market
One of the most interesting and walkable parts of the city is the Byward Market. This is one of the main tourist attractions in town and consists of outdoor farmer market stalls as well as an indoor area where you’ll find independent boutiques and foodie spots. The indoor area is a particularly good spot to visit if it happens to be raining during your stay!
Where to stay in Ottawa
Château Laurier: Located just down the road from parliament hill, the chateau Laurier is one of the most prestigious hotels in Ottawa. This four star hotel boasts amenities such as an indoor swimming pool and restaurant onsite, set against the backdrop of a historic building that dates back over 100 years. Check prices and availability here.
Byward Blue Inn: We personally stayed in this laid-back two star accommodation and found it to be comfortable and, since we didn’t rent a car, we also found that it was pretty convenient to get to many attractions such as the Byward Market and the Notre Dame Cathedral within easy walking distance. Check prices and availability here.
A final note on planning a visit to Ottawa
Have we convinced you to visit Ottawa? If so, read our guide on how to spend the perfect one day in Ottawa so you can get the most out of your trip when visiting the capital city of Canada!
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