Ottawa
Nestled at the junction of three scenic rivers and home to Canada’s federal government, Ottawa is considered to be one of the most beautiful capital cities in the world. Its famous Rideau Canal, a UNESCO World Heritage Centre, becomes the world's largest natural skating rink in winter. It's no surprise that our capital is often part of a Canada self-drive itinerary.
Situated just across the river from the province of Quebec, Ottawa is a dynamic environment with strong French and English roots and a rich cultural and ethnic diversity.
CENTENNIAL FLAME
Located in the forecourt of Parliament Hill, the Centennial Flame commemorates Canada’s 100th anniversary as a Confederation. The flame burns in the centre of a fountain surrounded by the 12 coats of arms of Canada's provinces and territories, and is the symbol of Canadian unity.
The Centennial Flame offers a superb view of the Parliament Buildings. Time to get out your camera! The flame burns year-round, in summer and winter alike!
CHANGING OF THE GUARD
You can enjoy the music and colourful drills of the changing of the guard (much like the one at Buckingham Palace). It begins on Parliament Hill at 10:00 every morning, but be sure to arrive at least 15 minutes ahead of time to get a good spot. Best of all, it's free of charge!
Daily from the end of June until the end of August when weather makes it possible.
NORTHERN LIGHTS
This superb sound and light show will take you on an unforgettable audiovisual journey through the history of Canada against the backdrop of the iconic Parliament Buildings.
BOAT CRUISE ON THE OTTAWA RIVER
Take a sightseeing cruise on the famous Ottawa River for superb views of Rideau Falls, Parliament Hill and the sumptuous homes of Sussex Drive, including the Prime Minister's residence.
BYWARD MARKET
Established in 1826, the ByWard Market (Marché By in French) is one of Canada's oldest and largest public markets. This quaint market, covered in winter, is home to farmers with their fresh flowers, fruits and vegetables throughout the warm months, and local artisans and specialty food shops year-round. The area also features many cafés, restaurants, boutiques and tea shops, as well as a dynamic night life!
Open year round.
SPARKS STREET MALL
Sparks Street is an attractive and thriving pedestrian mall lined with trees and colourful flowerbeds, shops and cafés, located just south of Parliament Hill.
It is also home to a wide variety of events and activities throughout the year.
RIDE ON THE RIDEAU CANAL
The Rideau Canal is the heartbeat of Ottawa and an integral part of the lifestyle of its residents. One of the best ways to explore the Canal and its magnificent views of the city is with a sightseeing cruise on its calm waters. You will learn all about the history of Canada's Capital and its main attractions from your on-board tour guide. Departing from the National Arts Centre (1 Elgin St) below the Plaza Bridge (Rideau St. bridge).
CANADIAN MUSEUM OF HISTORY
This museum complex is dedicated to 1,000 years of Canadian history. Learn about the arrival of the Vikings, the art and traditions of Canada's First Peoples and the country's 275 ethnic groups. You will have the chance to admire the world's largest indoor collection of totem poles in the heart of a reproduction of a West Coast tribal village. The museum houses an impressive collection of 5 million artifacts, with a focus on Canadian cultural traditions.
Visit the Canadian Children's Museum for a trip around the world, where you and your children will discover a host of fascinating people and places. The complex also features an IMAX theatre.
NOTRE-DAME CATHEDRAL BASILICA
This magnificent Neo-Gothic style cathedral was designated a National Historic Site of Canada in 1990 because of its great heritage value. The building's notable features include its stone exterior, its two square towers, an ornately decorated interior with vaulted ceilings and extensive woodwork, and its interior sculptures carved by notable Canadian sculptor, Philippe Hebert.
Visits are not permitted during mass hours.
OTTAWA'S MUSEUMS...Art, history and science buffs are sure to enjoy their stay in the nation's capital. Ottawa is home to many world-class museums including seven of Canada’s nine national museums. Here are some that you won't want to miss:
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NEPEAN POINT**Note: Nepean Point will be undergoing redevelopment over the next few years, resulting in closure or reduced access to the site. If you want the most spectacular panoramic view of Ottawa and the lights on Parliament Hill, visit Nepean Point, a site developed for Canada’s centennial in 1967. The view is also magnificent during the day, and the site features a majestic statue of Samuel de Champlain, who explored the Ottawa River in 1613. Nepean Point is behind the National Gallery of Canada (380 Promenade Sussex), just steps from Alexandra Bridge. |
NEARBY
GATINEAU PARK
This park, just 15 minutes from downtown Ottawa, is the largest green space in the Outaouais region, known for its rich biodiversity and its rolling green hills and forests. People come here in summer to visit historic sites, such as the Mackenzie-King Estate, to hike along its 183 km of trails (accessible from April 15 to September 15), and to cycle, swim and camp. In winter, snowshoeing and cross-country skiing are the activities of predilection.
There are also scenic drives leading to lookouts, lakes and waterfalls. The park is open 24 hours a day, all year round, except during severe weather.
CHELSEA
Less than 20 minutes from Ottawa, Chelsea is a charming little village for nature lovers. Surrounded by Gatineau Park, this destination offers a multitude of outdoor activities. Meech Lake is perfect for a swim or a kayak trip, while the local farmer’s market allows you to discover local products.
The village itself is picturesque, with boutiques, art galleries and welcoming cafés. Chelsea combines the authenticity of a rural village with proximity to the city, offering a peaceful getaway just a short drive from Ottawa.
Festivals calendar
Canadian Tulip Festival
Dates: mid-May
What began with a gift from the Netherlands as a symbol of international friendship quickly blossomed into one of the most celebrated festivals in Canada and the largest tulip festival in the world. Ottawa, with its official flower, the tulip, has become the tulip capital of North America. The highest concentration of tulips can be viewed in Commissioners Park, where some 300,000 flowers bloom. A shuttle service follows the Tulip Route, allowing visitors to admire the colourful tulip beds and spectacular gardens along the canal.
Ottawa Dragon Boat Festival
Dates: end June
Ottawa's Dragon Boat Festival is the largest of its kind in North America. The festival takes place at Mooney’s Bay Park. About 200 teams made up of some 5,000 paddlers compete in different race categories. More than 70,000 spectators enjoy a wide range of on-site cultural presentations, concerts and family activities.
Ottawa Bluesfest
Dates: July
RBC Ottawa Bluesfest is one of the top ten music festivals in the world, according to Billboard Magazine. It is a multi-staged, two-week music showcase featuring some of the best talent available on the planet. Blues, R&B, rock, pop and much more.
Casino du Lac-Leamy Sound of Light
Dates: August
The Casino du Lac-Leamy Sound of Light is one of the largest fireworks competitions in Canada. Watch the sky over the lovely shores of Leamy Lake light up in a dazzling pyromusical display. Magical moments, colourful lights, music and entertainment combine to create a fun atmosphere that will appeal to the whole family.