Discover Ottawa: A Cultural and Historical Overview

Ottawa, originally known as "Bytown" after British Colonel John By who oversaw the Rideau Canal project, evolved from a construction base into Canada's capital city. Renamed Ottawa in 1854, it's home to the Parliament buildings, established in 1865, and the first Canadian Parliament of the Dominion of Canada in 1867. The city boasts a vibrant cultural scene, thanks to its universities, research institutes, and landmarks like the National Gallery and the National Arts Center.

The Rideau Canal splits Central Ottawa into Lower Town, featuring the National Gallery of Canada and Byward Market, and Upper Town, known for the Bank of Canada building. Key streets like Wellington and Sparks Street are hubs for shopping and dining.

Explore the top attractions in Ottawa with our guide, highlighting why it's a must-visit Canadian destination.

1. Parliament Hill

The Parliament Buildings stand majestically on Parliament Hill, offering guided tours and the chance to witness government sessions. The Changing of the Guard ceremony is a popular free event in the summer.

Address: Wellington Street, Ottawa, Ontario

Official site: https://lop.parl.ca/sites/Visit/default/en_CA

2. Rideau Canal

The Rideau Canal, a 200-kilometer waterway connecting Ottawa to Kingston, is bustling with boats in summer and transforms into a skating rink in winter. The Château Laurier, a grand hotel, overlooks the canal.

Individual tours in Ottawa

3. Canadian War Museum

This modern museum delves into Canada's military history, featuring interactive exhibits and a collection of military vehicles.

Address: 1 Vimy Place, Ottawa, Ontario

Official site: www.warmuseum.ca

4. National Gallery of Canada

Designed by Moshe Safdie, the National Gallery showcases Canadian and international art, with free admission on Thursday evenings.

Address: 380 Sussex Drive, Ottawa, Ontario

Official site: www.gallery.ca

5. Peace Tower

The Peace Tower offers panoramic views of Ottawa. Free access is available with a ticket.

Address: Parliament Hill, Ottawa, Ontario

Official site: https://visit.parl.ca/sites/Visit/default/en_CA

6. Canadian Museum of Nature

This museum presents the evolution of Canada's natural history in a historic building.

Address: 240 McLeod Street, Ottawa, Ontario

Official site: http://nature.ca/

7. National War Memorial

The National War Memorial commemorates Canadian soldiers, with a Changing of the Guard ceremony and Remembrance Day activities.

Address: Wellington Street, Ottawa, Ontario

8. Diefenbunker, Canada's Cold War Museum

Located in a former government bunker, this museum explores the Cold War era.

Address: 3929 Carp Road, Carp, Ottawa, Ontario

Official site: http://diefenbunker.ca/

9. Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica

This basilica is known for its stunning interior and stained-glass windows.

Address: 385 Sussex Drive, Ottawa, Ontario

Official site: www.notredameottawa.com

10. Canada Aviation and Space Museum

This museum chronicles Canada's aviation history with an extensive aircraft collection.

Address: 11 Aviation Parkway, Ottawa

Official site: https://ingeniumcanada.org/casm

11. Royal Canadian Mint

The Mint produces collector coins and medals, with tours available to see the craftsmanship.

Address: 320 Sussex Drive, Ottawa, Ontario

Official site: http://www.mint.ca

12. Canadian Tulip Festival

This spring festival celebrates the blooming of tulips with events and fireworks.

Address: Queen Elizabeth Driveway, Ottawa, Ontario

Official site: http://tulipfestival.ca/

13. Byward Market

A historic market surrounded by restaurants and boutiques.

Official site: http://byward-market.com/en/home/

14. Dows Lake Pavilion

A lakeside pavilion offering dining and recreational rentals.

Address: 1001 Queen Elizabeth Dr, Ottawa, Ontario

Official site: www.dowslake.com

Where to Stay in Ottawa for Sightseeing

For accommodations, Ottawa offers luxury hotels like Le Germain Hotel, Andaz Ottawa, and The Westin Ottawa. Mid-range options include Alt Hotel Ottawa, Residence Inn Ottawa Airport, and Homewood Suites by Hilton Ottawa Downtown. Budget travelers can consider Rideau Heights Inn and Adam's Airport Inn.