A visit to Parliament Hill should be on your list of things to do in Ottawa. Welcome to Ottawa, the capital of Canada, where history, culture, and adventure come together in surprising ways! From the iconic Parliament Hill to hidden culinary treasures, this city offers a variety of experiences that will leave you thinking, “Why didn’t I come here sooner?” Whether you’re strolling along the Rideau Canal, visiting world-class museums, or enjoying delicious local dishes that are simply irresistible, Ottawa has something for every kind of traveler. Stick with us as we reveal the best activities to enjoy in Ottawa… No matter what you’re interested in, Ottawa has plenty to offer. Every time we visit, there’s always something new to try. In this article, we’ll highlight some of the best attractions and activities available so you can plan your next trip more effectively.
Tour Parliament Hill
The main landmark of Ottawa is undoubtedly Canada’s Parliament Building. It’s one of the must-see places in the city-whether you join a tour or just explore the grounds. Not only does it serve as the heart of Canada’s government, but its architecture is breathtaking too. With features like the Peace Tower and stunning Gothic designs, these buildings are a joy to admire from their lawns. Plus, if you’re keen on going inside, free tours are available where you can learn about Canada’s political system.Witness the Changing of the Guard
A great summer activity is watching the Changing of the Guard ceremony that happens on Parliament Hill each morning from late June until late August. It starts at 10 AM (make sure to check their schedule), and it showcases a colorful display filled with music and ceremony. Arriving at least 30 minutes early will help ensure you get a good view. Many people love catching this event during summer months.Experience Parliament: The Immersive Tour
Imagine stepping into what feels like a time machine; instead of clanking gears though, there are huge 360° projections along with immersive sound effects that make it feel like you’re wandering through important spaces such as Senate chambers and Memorial Chambers-all while knowing that Centre Block is currently undergoing renovations. This relatively new tour is located right across from Parliament Hill. It’s free and available in both English and French while giving insight into Canada’s government without actually going inside. This experience is perfect if you’ve never been inside Centre Block before (or want a sneak peek while it’s closed) or if sensory storytelling excites you. Just be aware-there might be flashes, immersive sounds, dim lighting-and some moving visuals-so keep this in mind if you’re sensitive to those effects. Many boats wait more than an hour to navigate through eight locks on the Rideau Canal.Explore the Rideau Canal
Right next door to Parliament lies another gem worth visiting-the Rideau Canal. You can’t really miss it! This UNESCO World Heritage Site was originally constructed back in 1812 for defense against potential war with America but has now transformed into a popular destination for boaters connecting down towards Lake Ontario and beyond to Thousand Islands. While you’re there, don’t forget to pop into Bytown Museum which we’ll discuss below. Things To Do In Ottawa.Wander Around By Ward Market
By Ward Market stands out as one of Ottawa’s most visited attractions. This historic farmers’ market is conveniently close enough for walking from parliament buildings making it an ideal spot for grabbing food or enjoying drinks outdoors while exploring various locally crafted goods or clothing options! If you want an authentic experience here consider joining up for lunch-tasting tours! The atmosphere buzzes especially during summertime as folks hunt for everything from gourmet cheese selections all way down maple-infused chocolates! We always make our way over because not only does it bring life into town-but we’ve developed quite fondness towards Mexican eatery called Corazon De Maiz-we indulged ourselves having their tostadas three times within five days last visit-they were just that good! Beavertails are an iconic dessert found all over Ottawa.Discover Ottawa’s History at By Town Museum
If learning about local history interests you then check out By Town Museum-it focuses specifically on showcasing events surrounding Ottawas past! Located near lower locks adjacent between Chateau Laurier & Canadian parliament building-it serves up insightful overview regarding origins behind Bytown which later evolved into present-day known city known now as ‘Ottawa’! Admiring military aircraft at Aviation & Space Museum.Visit The Aviation And Space Museum
This museum ranks high among our favorites due its unique collections related aviation industry; situated within former military base located Sussex Drive – showcasing everything including planes jets spacecrafts representing whole evolution since beginnings dating back till year 1909 until today! You can find incredible array featuring military aircraft vintage bush planes commercial airlines plus numerous additional exhibits detailing aerospace technology such Canadarm alongside explorations highlighting life aboard space missions! Undoubtedly considered top tier globally when discussing aviation museums-which makes sense why families often enjoy visiting too! This could easily qualify among most exceptional things happening around town!See The City Anew Through Biplane Flightseeing Tours
If fun thrills excite your interest then definitely sign-up onto one these biplane flightseeing tours offered around town! How many chances do people get sit inside real-life World War II era plane while soaring above sights including downtown area & river views? Just think how exhilarating it’d feel being seated outside cockpit beside pilot who operates plane behind – trust me cannot recommend highly enough this type excitement awaits ahead! Admiring scenic skyline views over ottawaLearn About Canada At Canadian Museum Of History
Sitting across river via Gatineau Quebec lies stunningly impressive Canadian Museum Of History both inside/outside boasting impressive displays covering vast range topics spanning humanity’s existence up until modern times showcasing variety cultures civilizations encountered throughout course history! You won’t want miss exploring expansive Grand Hall housing beautifully crafted Totem Poles mixed together educational features regarding Indigenous perspectives shared alike Foundational peoples exhibits plus experiencing Children’s section designed particularly engage younger audiences they’ll absolutely have blast discovering varied cultural insights offered therein;Designed by renowned indigenous architect Douglas Cardinal architectural masterpiece truly stands out marking one city’s aesthetic charm offering breathtaking panoramic scenes visible clearly across parliament side river banks. The museum overlooks gorgeous views directed straight towards hilltop landmarks.
