things to do in ottawa

Ottawa, the capital city of Canada, is a vibrant and culturally rich destination that offers a wide range of activities and attractions for visitors. Here are some things to do in Ottawa:

Landmarks and Attractions:

1. Parliament Hill: Take a guided tour of the Parliament buildings and learn about Canadian history and politics.
2. Rideau Canal: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Rideau Canal is a scenic waterway that runs through the heart of Ottawa and offers boat tours and ice skating in the winter.
3. National Gallery of Canada: With a collection of over 40,000 works of art, the National Gallery of Canada is one of Canada’s premier art museums.
4. Canadian Museum of History: Explore the history of Canada and the world at this world-class museum.
5. Byward Market: This historic market offers shopping, dining, and entertainment options.

Outdoor Activities:

1. Rideau Canal Skateway: In the winter, the Rideau Canal is transformed into the world’s largest naturally frozen ice skating rink.
2. Gatineau Park: Just across the Ottawa River, Gatineau Park offers hiking, biking, and skiing trails.
3. Major’s Hill Park: This scenic park offers stunning views of the Ottawa River and the city skyline.
4. Ottawa River: Take a boat tour or rent a kayak or canoe to explore the Ottawa River.
5. Winterlude: Every February, Ottawa hosts Winterlude, a winter festival that features ice sculptures, snow slides, and live music.

Cultural Events:

1. Ottawa Bluesfest: Every July, Ottawa hosts the Ottawa Bluesfest, a popular music festival that features blues, rock, and folk music.
2. Ottawa International Jazz Festival: This festival takes place every June and features jazz music from around the world.
3. Canada Day Celebrations: Every July 1st, Ottawa celebrates Canada Day with parades, fireworks, and live music.
4. Ottawa Fringe Festival: This festival takes place every May and features theater, dance, and music performances.
5. Winterlude Ice Sculpture Festival: Every February, Ottawa hosts a festival featuring intricate ice sculptures.

Food and Drink:

1. Try a BeaverTails pastry: This iconic Canadian pastry is a must-try when visiting Ottawa.
2. Visit the Byward Market: This historic market offers a wide range of food and drink options, including craft beer and artisanal cheeses.
3. Take a brewery tour: Ottawa is home to several craft breweries, including Collective Arts Brewing and Big Rig Brewing Co.
4. Try some Canadian cuisine: Ottawa is a great place to try traditional Canadian dishes like poutine, Montreal-style bagels, and tourtière.
5. Visit the Ottawa Farmers’ Market: Every Saturday, the Ottawa Farmers’ Market offers fresh produce, baked goods, and local crafts.

Other Attractions:

1. Diefenbunker: This Cold War-era bunker offers a glimpse into Canada’s history and the Cold War era.
2. Canadian War Museum: This museum tells the story of Canada’s military history and features interactive exhibits.
3. Ottawa Zoo: Home to over 1,000 animals, the Ottawa Zoo is a great place to visit with family.
4. Canadian Museum of Nature: This museum features exhibits on natural history, including dinosaurs, mammals, and insects.
5. The Glebe: This charming neighborhood is known for its boutique shops, restaurants, and cafes.

These are just a few of the many things to do in Ottawa. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, outdoor activities, or food and drink, Ottawa has something for everyone.