Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
Here's a list of places to go and things to do in Ottawa:

1. Parliament Hill: Start your visit with a trip to Parliament Hill, the iconic political and cultural heart of Canada. You can take a guided tour of the Parliament Buildings, explore the stunning Peace Tower, and watch the Changing of the Guard ceremony during the summer months.

2. National Gallery of Canada: Art enthusiasts will appreciate a visit to this world-class gallery. It houses an extensive collection of Canadian and international art, including works by the Group of Seven and the famous Maman sculpture by Louise Bourgeois.

3. Canadian Museum of History: Located just across the Ottawa River in Gatineau, Quebec, this museum is a must-visit. Explore Canada's rich history, indigenous cultures, and enjoy the spectacular Grand Hall, which features a dramatic view of Parliament Hill.

4. Rideau Canal: During the summer months, you can rent a paddleboat, kayak, or take a leisurely stroll along the Rideau Canal, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. In the winter, it transforms into the world's largest ice skating rink.

5. ByWard Market: This historic market is a lively area filled with restaurants, cafes, boutique shops, and fresh produce stalls. It's a great place to taste local cuisine and shop for unique souvenirs.

6. Canadian Museum of Nature: Explore the wonders of the natural world, from dinosaurs to gems and minerals. The museum's stunning architecture is a sight to behold in itself.

7. National War Memorial: Pay your respects to Canada's fallen soldiers at this solemn and beautiful monument, located just steps away from Parliament Hill.

8. Canadian Aviation and Space Museum: Perfect for aviation enthusiasts, this museum houses an impressive collection of aircraft, including the famous Avro Arrow and the Canadarm.

9. Diefenbunker, Canada's Cold War Museum: Take a trip back in time to the Cold War era and explore this massive underground bunker designed to protect Canada's government in case of a nuclear attack.

10. Gatineau Park: Just a short drive from downtown Ottawa, this park offers hiking trails, scenic lookouts, and beautiful lakes. In the fall, it's a popular spot for leaf-peeping.

11. Royal Canadian Mint: Learn about the process of making coins and see the world's largest coin at the Royal Canadian Mint. Guided tours are available.

12. Ottawa's Museums Passport: If you plan to visit multiple museums, consider purchasing a Museums Passport for discounted admission to several museums and galleries in the city.

13. National Arts Centre: Check out a live performance or concert at this prestigious venue, which hosts a variety of shows, from ballet and opera to contemporary music.

14. Ottawa River Rafting: For adventure seekers, there are opportunities for white-water rafting on the Ottawa River, providing an adrenaline-pumping experience.

15. Haunted Walk of Ottawa: Explore the city's darker side with a guided ghost tour that takes you to some of Ottawa's most haunted locations.

16. Major's Hill Park: This picturesque park offers stunning views of the Parliament Buildings and is a great spot for a picnic or leisurely stroll.

17. Winterlude: If you visit Ottawa in the winter, don't miss Winterlude, a winter festival featuring ice sculptures, outdoor ice skating, and various winter activities.

18. National Gallery of Canada's sculpture garden: Located near the museum, this outdoor space features a collection of large-scale sculptures in a beautiful garden setting.

19. Ottawa Brewery Tour: Explore the city's craft beer scene with a brewery tour. Ottawa boasts a growing number of craft breweries, each with its own unique flavors.

20. Canadian Tulip Festival: Held in May, this festival celebrates the arrival of spring with millions of blooming tulips, a gift from the Netherlands to Canada.



Visit Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
Discover the people who lived there, the places they visited and the stories they shared.