10 Must-See Ottawa Attractions So Stunning, You’ll Want to Collect Fridge Magnets From Each One!
I was sitting at my desk, sipping coffee (okay, fine, it was more like guzzling), pondering the quirks of this charming city, and thinking about how to spice up one’s visit.
I’ve covered everything under the sun, even the spots that make you question if they actually exist, so you can imagine the challenge I faced! Then, like a sudden poutine craving at 2 AM, it hits me – why not write about the must-see attractions in Ottawa?
It’s such a classic topic that I can’t believe it didn’t occur to me sooner!
This is for travelers who don’t go for the off-the-beaten-path. Instead, they crave the iconic sights, because you know what? That’s valid too!
Don’t listen to those who constantly say the right way to visit a city is by doing what locals do. Be a tourist. Be curious. Be captivated by the classics!
After all, there’s no wrong way to see the world as long as you’re having fun!
1. Parliament Hill
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Directions: https://maps.app.goo.gl/E1hqzoqB1KCcCsiB7
Address: Wellington St
Contact details: +1 613-992-4793
Operating hours:
- Monday to Thursday – 8:30 AM to 6 PM
- Friday – 8:30 AM to 5 PM
- Saturday and Sunday – closed
Located on Wellington Street in bustling Downtown Ottawa, Parliament Hill is one of the city’s most popular attractions for its architectural appeal and historical significance.
If you see rows of Gothic Revival-style buildings in the city center, then you’re in the right place!
While the public can’t have access to certain areas, you’re more than welcome to drop by and appreciate the beauty it adds to the Ottawa skyline. It’s free and commemorates your visit to the city.
2. Rideau Canal
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Directions: https://maps.app.goo.gl/8PH76YTF8F73BjPSA
If you’re in the city for 24 hours or less, I’d say the Rideau Canal is not to be missed, and I’m sure you’ll find it well worth your time.
This UNESCO World Heritage Site offers enchanting views and exciting activities within its parameter that stretches across 202 kilometers.
If you’re up for an adventure, it’s one of the most enchanting places to go kayaking or canoeing in Ottawa, making it every paddler’s dream! You can say it’s one of the best ways to enjoy Rideau Canal.
Another thing you should try is cycling in the area to best explore its offerings. During the winter, you can even ice skate through its frozen canals, which is why it’s enjoyable all year!
3. ByWard Market District
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Address: 55 ByWard Market Square
There are simply a lot of things you can do at the ByWard Market. It’s teeming with bars, farmers’ market vendors, charming boutiques, and more that a small portion of this article wouldn’t suffice to cover all its gems.
You can explore freely and be spontaneous or you can read up on our guide to ByWard Market to best prepare you for an exciting adventure ahead. Trust me, choosing the latter will save you from potential wasted time and disappointment!
4. National Gallery of Canada
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Website: https://www.gallery.ca
Address: 380 Sussex Dr
Contact details: +1 613-990-1985
Operating hours:
- Monday to Wednesday, Friday to Sunday – 9:30 AM to 5 PM
- Thursday – 9:30 AM to 8 PM
Ottawa is filled with enriching activities, especially if you know where to look. The National Gallery of Canada is one of those cultural gems.
It houses both local and international works of art but is renowned for its collection of Indigenous and Canadian art.
Seeing it for the first time, visitors are often wowed by its vast size—totaling 46,621 square meters. Art enthusiasts won’t want to miss out on experiencing one of the best art galleries in Ottawa!
5. Canadian War Museum
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Website: https://www.warmuseum.ca
Address: 1 Vimy Pl
Contact details: +1 800-555-5621
Operating hours:
- Monday to Wednesday, Friday to Sunday – 9 AM to 5 PM
- Thursday – 9 AM to 7 PM
The Canadian War Museum holds a wealth of stories, images, testimonies, and a wide variety of artifacts that showcase the country’s military history.
For a mere $5, you can learn more about the exhibits and gain valuable insights from the museum’s collections by hopping on one of the public tours.
After exploring different galleries, make sure to drop by Memorial Hall and reflect on what you’ve learned through your visit. Also take a moment to pay respects to Memorial Hall’s sole artifact, an unmarked grave of an unknown Canadian soldier.
6. Notre Dame Cathedral Basilica
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Website: https://notredameottawa.com
Address: 385 Sussex Dr
Contact details: +1 613-241-7496
Operating hours:
- Monday to Friday – 9 AM to 6 PM
- Saturday and Sunday – 9 AM to 7 PM
Notre Dame Cathedral Basilica is meant to be admired for its grandeur. Towering over Sussex Drive with its majestic spire and intricate detailing, this striking attraction captivates its visitors for its facade and interior.
Inside, the Notre Dame Cathedral Basilica impresses with elaborate stained glass windows, complementing the detailed paintings and ornate wooden carvings that showcase remarkable craftsmanship from its time.
You don’t need to be a practicing Roman Catholic to be able to step foot inside one of the most beautiful architectural masterpieces in Ottawa.
7. Royal Canadian Mint
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Website: https://www.mint.ca/en
Address: 320 Sussex Dr
Contact details: +1 613-993-0949
Operating hours:
- Monday – 9 AM to 5 PM
- Tuesday to Sunday – 10 AM to 5 PM
Royal Canadian Mint is a grandiose attraction renowned for its castle-esque exterior as if echoing its rich collection of gold bars and coins.
Here, you can immerse yourself in a variety of interesting exhibits. My favorite part, and I’m willing to bet it’s going to be yours too, is seeing how coins are made.
You don’t have to be a chirpy coin collector always on the hunt for some unique finds to be able to enjoy your visit. All you need is your curious spirit and sense of adventure!
8. National Arts Centre
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Website: https://nac-cna.ca/en
Address: 1 Elgin St
Contact details: +1 613-947-7000
National Arts Centre is a darling attraction, especially within the art community, known for its diverse offerings of art performances, events, and educational programs.
If art is your jam, then this place has a ticket with your name finger-painted all over it!
The ballet shows are highly sought-after by locals and visitors alike with the Nutcracker being a must-see performance. For a distinctive experience, explore events that celebrate indigenous art and culture.
9. Canadian Museum of Nature
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Website: https://nature.ca/en/
Address: 240 McLeod St
Contact details: +1 800-263-4433
Operating hours:
- Monday to Wednesday, Friday to Sunday – 9:30 AM to 5 PM
- Thursday – 9:30 AM to 8 PM
The Canadian Museum of Nature is like stepping inside a prehistoric wonderland. If you want to know what it’s like to be among dinosaurs, this is the place to be.
From massive dinosaur skeletons to 3D displays of mammals, this museum is a marvel.
As someone who hates any type of creature that crawls, I’m surprising myself by recommending you check out the Bug Adventure exhibit.
You won’t just see these fascinating (and admittedly gross) creatures up close – the immersive decor makes it feel like stepping into a magical realm!
10. Canada Aviation and Space Museum
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Website: https://ingeniumcanada.org/aviation
Address: 11 Aviation Pkwy
Contact details: +1 613-991-3044
Operating hours: Monday to Sunday – 9 AM to 5 PM
Offering one of the best helicopter rides in Ottawa, Canada Aviation and Space Museum is the place to visit for elevated aerial experiences that will literally take you to new heights – that is, if you’re able to conquer its exhilarating and awe-inspiring adventures.
I’m saying this because I’ve been on the ride myself and I kid you not, I was shaking for half of it! However, I managed to ease into it eventually, and let me tell you – that was the most fun I’ve had in weeks!
I guess it really pays to get out of your comfort zone, huh?
Aside from this unique experience, you can also do a plethora of activities, including seeing the exhibits, hopping on a vintage airplane, and experiencing the interactive displays.