This guide is your key to the best visit to Ottawa (With Culture, Cravings, Commerce & Can’t-Miss Events!)
I knew I’d found my calling when a few years ago, a bewildered tourist asked me for directions. I kid you not – I chatted their ear off and gave them enough info about Ottawa to fill this entire article, while all they wanted was to find Parliament Hill!
They left with a laugh and a newfound appreciation for Ottawa’s hidden gems, or at least I hope so!
It struck me how our city isn’t just a place with a lot of landmarks, but a living, breathing experience that’s rich and vibrant.
So, I decided to put together this guide – not just for tourists actually, but for anyone who wants to rediscover the magic of Ottawa.
From must-see spots to must-try haunts, I’ve got you covered with everything you need to make your visit (or your next local adventure) unforgettable.
With the expert perspective of a true-blue Ottawan on the coolest spots, I’m confident this guide will ensure anyone has the time of their life, with no chance of missing out on the best bits.
Why Visit Ottawa
Ottawa has a little bit of everything: history, nature, nightlife, and art, making it an exciting city full of surprises.
It has this laid-back, friendly atmosphere, so you’ll feel right at home. Here, you can enjoy being a tourist while effortlessly blending in with the local vibe.
What to See and Do in Ottawa
1. Visit cultural attractions
Those looking for enriching and mentally stimulating attractions in Ottawa will find that the city is their playground. With a plethora of cultural destinations scattered around the capital, there’s a wide range of places to add to your itinerary.
Below are the top must-visits if you want to dive into Ottawa’s rich cultural scene.
Canadian War Museum
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Address: 1 Vimy Pl
Phone: +1 800-555-5621
Canadian War Museum offers an immersive exploration of Canada’s military history through a series of exhibitions featuring a rich collection of stories, images, testimonies, and artifacts.
Hopping on a tour is much recommended when you visit, especially if you want a more in-depth understanding of the exhibits and their stories.
Parliament Hill
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Address: Wellington St
Phone: +1 613-992-4793
Parliament Hill is one of the city’s most iconic attractions. I mean, you can’t say you’ve truly been to Ottawa if you haven’t seen it.
If you find yourself in the city center and see a towering Gothic-revival-style structure, then you know you’re in the right place!
This historical venue consists of three separate buildings, each offering a lavish and ornate facade and rich history. To learn more about it and the stories it has to tell, consider signing up for the available guided tours on Parliament Hill’s website.
National Gallery of Canada
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Address: 380 Sussex Dr
Phone: +1 613-990-1985
You simply can’t step foot in Ottawa and not visit the National Gallery of Canada, the country’s national art museum.
Art aficionados and history buffs alike will find this inspiring destination brimming with Canadian and Indigenous art, as well as European, Asian, and American pieces.
Because of its iconic architecture (ottawa architecture) and impressive collection, it’s considered one of the most exciting museums you can visit in the capital.
Rideau Canal
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Dubbed Ottawa’s one and only UNESCO World Heritage Site, Rideau Canal offers a refreshing glimpse into the city’s historic charm and natural beauty.
Its 202-kilometer stretch provides a scenic route for a plethora of outdoor activities all year round, such as canoeing, ice skating, cycling, and more.
Royal Canadian Mint
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Address: 320 Sussex Dr
Phone: +1 613-993-0949
Pricing:
Royal Canadian Mint takes its visitors on a cool behind-the-scenes tour of how coins are made, showcasing the awe-inspiring and meticulous process of how raw metal turns into the jingling treasures that fill our wallets.
Apart from its rich offerings, its eye-catching castle-like building is a must-see landmark, adding grandeur to the Ottawa skyline.
2. Indulge in outdoor activities
Ottawa is a unique metropolis, a haven even for nature lovers, as the city is teeming with spaces where you can escape to expansive meadows and stunning hiking trails.
If you’re visiting Ottawa, don’t miss out on the opportunity to indulge in the plethora of outdoor activities available.
Hog’s Back Park
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Address: 600 Hog’s Back Rd
Phone: +1 613-239-5000
Hog’s Back Park is a great example of how easily accessible nature landscapes are in the city.
Tucked minutes away from the bustling streets of Downtown Ottawa, you can quickly immerse yourself in the tranquility of nature without stepping foot outside the capital.
This serene nature enclave is mostly known for its picturesque waterfalls, adding a remarkable scenic touch to the already beautiful landscape.
Fletcher Wildlife Garden
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Address: near 865, Prince of Wales Dr
Phone: +1 613-234-6767
Fletcher Wildlife Garden (Fletcher Wildlife Garden) is a little slice of green paradise in the city, a nature hub filled with woodlands, meadows, and wetlands for every kind of adventure.
It’s a popular spot to stroll and find reprieve while birdwatching the various species that have made Fletcher Wildlife Garden their home.
Mud Lake Trail
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Address: Lincoln Heights Park, 265 Britannia Rd
Considered one of the best hiking trails in Ottawa, Mud Lake Trail is the perfect stage for your outdoor adventures in the city.
It boasts easy paths that only take less than an hour to complete, so you can focus on enjoying the scenery and wildlife. Plus, you can even let your kids tag along for the adventure, knowing that they’ll find the trail just as fascinating and manageable.
Mooney’s Bay Park and Beach
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Address: 2960 Riverside Dr
Phone: +1 613-580-2595
What if I told you that you could hit the beach just 30 minutes from downtown? Mooney’s Bay Park and Beach delivers a seaside escape that’s incredibly easy to reach. That’s the magic of Ottawa for you!
And during the colder months, there’s a sled hill where you can zoom down the slopes and embrace your inner winter thrill-seeker, so there’s something to look forward to year-round!
Britannia Beach
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Going on a beach trip to Britannia Beach (britannia beach ottawa) is one of the best outdoor activities you can do in Ottawa during summer. It offers a wide array of outdoor activities, promising the ultimate summer getaway.
You can picnic, stroll, kayak, and, best of all, catch the breathtaking flaming sunsets that turn the sky into a masterpiece.
3. Attend events and festivals
Whether you’re a music lover, art aficionado, or simply someone who enjoys a good party, there’s always something happening in Ottawa to keep you entertained and engaged.
Here are the top events to look out for when planning your visit.
Canadian Tulip Festival
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Canadian Tulip Festival is an annual event held every May. If you’re here during that time, you’ll be able to witness a stunning sea of colorful tulips in full bloom, painting the city with its lively hues.
The main attraction is at the Commissioners Park, but you can also see it in other places like the ByWard Market.
Ottawa International Animation Festival
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Happening every September, the Ottawa International Animation Festival is a must-see event, especially if you want to catch the latest and greatest in animated films from around the world.
The exciting event stretches for five days, and within that time frame, folks can watch screenings, sign up for workshops, and join parties, ensuring that it’s both enriching and fun for all.
Canada Day
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Ottawa goes all out during Canada Day, July 1, so make sure to join the festivities and experience the vibrant celebrations firsthand. Get ready for a fun day filled with live performances, food, fireworks, and more!
While the main stage for festivities used to be at Parliament Hill, it’s currently undergoing renovations, so the celebrations will be moved to LeBreton Flats until 2030.
Ottawa Bluesfest
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Contrary to what its name entails, Ottawa Bluesfest offers something other than the soulful, toe-tapping rhythms of blues music – but it started out that way!
Now, you can enjoy a variety of genres from popular artists. The stage has had a great track record of providing incendiary performances, welcoming chart-topping musicians such as Lady Gaga, Foo Fighters, and Red Hot Chili Peppers.
Capital Pride
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Don’t miss out on one of the hottest summer events in Ottawa – Capital Pride, where vibrant parades, lively performances, and a celebration of diversity and inclusion come together for an unforgettable experience.
Happening every third week of August, this festival transforms the city into a colorful and joyful celebration that you won’t want to miss.
4. Immerse yourself in the vibrant culinary scene
Oh, where do I even begin with Ottawa’s culinary scene? First off, you can dive into a global foodie adventure without leaving the city, thanks to its multicultural population.
And let’s not forget about the fine dining scene. If you want sophisticated flavors and an elevated experience, Ottawa boasts a plethora of upscale restaurants to try. But of course, this isn’t to say that there aren’t any interesting cheap eats in the city.
In this short list below, I aimed to make it as diverse as possible, providing different price points and cuisines, ensuring there are delicious choices for everyone.
Riviera
Address: 62 Sparks St.
Phone: +1 613-233-6262
Pricing: $$$
Riviera is one of the best restaurants on Sparks Street for its stylishly sophisticated space and delicious high-quality dishes. The beef tartare is the fan favorite for its delicate texture and rich and savory flavors that just hit the spot each time.
Supply and Demand
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Address: 1335 Wellington St. W
Phone: +1 613-680-2949
Pricing: $$$
Supply and Demand is a Wellington Street gem renowned for its fresh raw bar. As you would expect, patrons love the fresh oysters, which come with Supply and Demand’s own sauces, creating a mouthwatering, flavor-packed experience.
The open kitchen elevates the culinary adventure, allowing you to watch chefs create each dish with skill and precision. No need to worry – this isn’t “The Bear,” so there’s no edge-of-your-seat drama here!
Gooneys Sandwichworks
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Address: 294 Albert St suite 102
Phone: +1 613-233-2460
Pricing: $
Considered one of the best cheap eats in Ottawa (cheap eats ottawa), Gooneys Sandwichworks is a standout choice for visitors seeking delicious and satisfying, yet affordable meals.
This modest eatery is quite known for its arepas, which come in a lot of delicious varieties. Consider getting the Perico, especially if you like breakfast classics, as it comes with eggs, bacon, and cheese.
Fatboys Southern Smokehouse
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Address: 34 Murray St
Phone: +1 613-695-5599
Pricing: $$
Fatboys is one of Ottawa’s premier BBQ restaurants well-loved for its Southern-style smoked meats and hearty comfort food.
The ribs n’ chicken is the star of the menu, featuring a ¼ rack of ribs and either a ¼ chopped BBQ chicken or 2 pieces of Southern fried chicken – your choice!
The vibrant ambiance, paired with live music, further elevates the dining experience for every patron.
Torta Boyz
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Address: 60A Lebreton St N
Pricing: $$
One of the must-try Mexican restaurants in Ottawa (mexican restaurant ottawa) is the hip and snazzy Torta Boyz, where the asada fries are the ultimate chart-topper.
Topped with flavorful ingredients like cilantro, crema, and salsa Morita, anyone who gets a taste of it is sure to enjoy this savory treat.
And of course, don’t forget to try out my favorite – the tacos. The taco de tinga de pollo is renowned for its fiery kick, combining tender shredded chicken with a zesty, smoky sauce that will set your taste buds ablaze.
Best Time to Visit Ottawa
The best time to visit Ottawa depends on your interests. Spring offers beautiful tulips and mild weather while summer is great for festivals and warm temperatures.
Fall features stunning foliage and cooler weather. Winter is perfect for winter sports and the Winterlude festival.
Getting Around Ottawa
According to data from Statistics Canada, 76.8% of Ottawans drive a car, van, or truck, 11.2% take transit, 7% walk, 1.5% cycle, and 3.4% use other methods.
If you’re traveling, chances are, you’ll use the transit a lot. My tip is to brush up on your knowledge about OC Transpo (OC Transpo), Ottawa’s public transportation system, to navigate the city with ease.
Where to Stay in Ottawa
Le Germain Hotel
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Address: 30 Daly Ave
Phone: +1 613-691-3230
Pricing: $$
Le Germain Hotel is an exceptional choice as a home base for your Ottawa adventures. It exudes a sophisticated allure, complete with comforting touches, making you feel right at home.
The location is also a plus, as it’s situated just on the fringe of ByWard Market; a plethora of dining options, bars, and other interesting destinations are within easy reach!
Fairmont Château Laurier
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Address: 1 Rideau St
Phone: +1 613-241-1414
Pricing: $$
Fairmont Château Laurier (chateau laurier ottawa) is like something straight out of a fairytale with its grandiose castle-esque facade and timeless charm.
It adds a touch of historic grandeur to Ottawa’s modern skyline, seamlessly blending old-world elegance with contemporary landscape.
Fortunately, it’s not a mere pretty sight to see, because you can experience its luxurious charm by choosing it as your accommodation.
While you’re at it, make sure to drop by Zoe’s, Fairmont Château Laurier’s prime destination for a delightful afternoon tea (afternoon tea ottawa).
The Westin Ottawa
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Address: 11 Colonel By Dr
Phone: +1 613-560-7000
Pricing: $$
Offering unbeatable views of Parliament Hill, The Westin is an exceptional choice if you’re looking for accommodations downtown.
Each room boasts stylish decor and comfortable features, making one’s stay both elegant and relaxing. Plus, the hotel’s prime location puts you within easy reach of Ottawa’s top attractions and dining options.
Alt Hotel Ottawa
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Address: 185 Slater St
Phone: +1 613-691-6882
Pricing: $$
Alt Hotel Ottawa’s regal design makes it a standout choice for those seeking a touch of sophistication in their stay.
Foodies will especially love this one, as it’s just within walking distance from Ottawa’s best restaurants like Sansotei Ramen, Gooneys Sandwichworks, and Aroma Maze.
The Metcalfe Hotel by Gray Collection
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Address: 123 Metcalfe St
Phone: +1 613-231-6555
Pricing: $
Minimalism is king at The Metcalfe Hotel, proving that simplicity doesn’t equate to boring with its stylish allure. The sleek design and sophisticated furnishings create a chic atmosphere that’s both modern and inviting.
Considering its downtown location, it’s a great bang for your buck in terms of both comfort and convenience.
Where to Shop in Ottawa
Bayshore Shopping Centre
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Address: 100 Bayshore Dr
Phone: +1 613-829-7491
Bayshore Shopping Centre is the ultimate shopper’s paradise. It’s no wonder why it’s one of the best malls in Ottawa! Here, you can find popular stores such as Aritzia, Bath & Body Works, and Lululemon.
Whether you’re hunting for the latest fashion trends or just want to treat yourself, Bayshore has it all under one roof.
CF Rideau Centre
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Address: 50 Rideau St
Phone: +1 613-236-6565
CF Rideau Centre is a bustling retail hub with three floors full of shopping trendy shops and dining options. It’s home to a diverse range of stores – from luxury brands and popular chains to unique specialty shops.
Located near major landmarks like the ByWard Market and Rideau Canal, CF Rideau Centre is not only a shopping destination but also a vibrant part of Ottawa’s downtown scene.
Sparks Street BIA & MA
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Address: 56 Sparks St. #608
Phone: +1 613-230-0984
Sparks Street BIA & MA is an epic pedestrian mall that shopaholics would be crazy to miss. It offers a charming mix of shopping, dining, and entertainment options, so there’s something here for everyone.
Plus, Sparks Street hosts various events and festivals year-round, providing even more reasons to include it in your itinerary. Think outdoor markets, cultural celebrations, and special holiday events that bring the community together!