Ottawa
Save37 hand-picked places in 10 lists. Tick the categories you want to see on the map.
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Tips
10 places on the map
Top 10
- 1
Gothic Revival seat of Canada federal government
- Tip: At night
- Tip: Book ahead
2 tips
- Watch the changing of the guard in summer
- Evening light show in season
📷 Photos
- 2
UNESCO canal that becomes a skating rink in winter
3 tips
- Skate in winter when open
- Walk or bike the pathways
- See the locks near Parliament
📷 Photos
- 3
Historic market district with food, shops and nightlife
3 tips
- Try a Beavertail pastry
- Busiest on weekends
- Wander the side streets
📷 Photos
- 4
Major art gallery with the giant Maman spider sculpture
3 tips
- Free for visitors under 12
- Allow 2 hours
- Spot Maman outside
📷 Photos
- 5
Museum in Gatineau with the Grand Hall and views of Parliament
- Tip: Allow a few hours
2 tips
- Across the river in Gatineau
- Beautiful view of Parliament Hill
📷 Photos
- 6
Museum of Canadian military history at LeBreton Flats
- Tip: Allow a few hours
2 tips
- Check special exhibits
- Close to the Pimisi O-Train station
📷 Photos
- 7
Ottawa oldest church with twin spires and blue vaulted ceiling
3 tips
- Free entry
- Respect services
- Beautiful interior
📷 Photos
- 8
Official residence of the Governor General with public grounds
3 tips
- Grounds are free
- Check tour availability
- Walk to Rideau Falls
📷 Photos
- 9
Large park with trails, lookouts and fall colours
3 tips
- Visit Champlain Lookout
- Fall is peak
- Parking can fill up
📷 Photos
- 10
Natural history museum in a castle-like building
3 tips
- Great for families
- Allow 2 hours
- Dinosaurs and whales
📷 Photos
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Before you go: Ottawa tips
Transportation
- Ride the O-Train: OC Transpo's Line 1 links downtown stops like Parliament and Rideau with Tunney's Pasture and Blair; tap a Presto card or contactless bank card to pay.
- Cycle the pathways: Ottawa has long multi-use paths along the Rideau Canal and Ottawa River; in warmer months it is a scenic, fast way between downtown and the Experimental Farm.
- Remember Gatineau runs differently: Across the river in Quebec, buses are operated by STO, not OC Transpo, so check which network serves your trip to the Canadian Museum of History.
Security
- Mind the canal ice: Skate only on sections of the Rideau Canal Skateway that are officially open, and watch the posted ice condition flags rather than venturing onto unmarked ice.
- Stay alert in the ByWard Market late: The Market is busy and fun, but bar crowds and occasional panhandling around Rideau Street late at night call for normal city caution.
- Dress for frostbite risk: In deep winter, wind chill can freeze exposed skin quickly; watch Environment Canada cold warnings and cover your face and hands outdoors.
Saving
- Use free museum times: Several national museums, including the National Gallery of Canada, offer free admission at set times; check their websites before you plan your day.
- Enjoy free Parliament Hill events: Tours of Parliament and summer events on the Hill are free, and Canada Day celebrations on July 1 bring free concerts and fireworks.
- Budget for tax and tips: Listed prices exclude sales tax, and restaurant tips of around 15 to 20 percent are expected, so factor both in when comparing menus.
Weather/Clothing
- Layer up for real winter: From December to March Ottawa is one of the coldest capitals; bring an insulated parka, toque, mitts and waterproof boots with good grip.
- Expect humid summers: July and August are warm and sticky with thunderstorms, so pack breathable clothes, sunscreen and insect repellent for Gatineau Park.
- Bring layers for spring and fall: May tulip season and colourful October can swing from mild to chilly in a day; a light jacket and sweater cover most days.
Cultural
- Try a BeaverTail: The stretched fried-dough pastry sold in the ByWard Market and on the canal in winter is an Ottawa institution, often topped with cinnamon sugar.
- Greet in both languages: Ottawa is officially bilingual and many shops greet you with bonjour-hi; reply in either English or French, whichever you are comfortable with.
- Time a festival visit: Winterlude in February and the Canadian Tulip Festival in May are the city's signature events, with ice sculptures and millions of blooms.
Local Hacks
- Hike Gatineau Park: Just across the river, Gatineau Park has lookouts like Champlain and trails for hiking or skiing, a quick escape from downtown.
- Use the indoor routes: In winter, the Rideau Centre and connected buildings let you shop and eat downtown while limiting time in the cold wind.
- Watch the light show on the Hill: In summer the Northern Lights sound and light show projected onto the Parliament buildings is free; arrive early for a good spot.
1-day itineraries in Ottawa
Only have a day? Each one keeps you in one area, from morning to late afternoon, with lunch nearby.