Ottawa
What you need to know before you go
Ottawa is Canada’s beautiful capital city, set on the south bank of the Ottawa River in Ontario. The city is peppered with national and historical sites, with cultural attractions and festive celebrations that you can enjoy throughout the year. Popularly thought of as a winter destination, Ottawa’s waterways and parks come to life in the warmer months. Rideau Canal offers scenic boating. But come wintertime, it becomes the world’s largest naturally frozen skating rink.
Although Ottawa’s one of Canada’s modern hubs for technology and science, the city still has a deep appreciation for history, culture, and ceremonies. Set your eyes on Parliament Hill by the river for one of the city’s most picturesque views and witness the city’s changing of the guards against some of the city’s grandest Gothic Revival buildings. Enjoy Ottawa’s great outdoors at its beautiful parks or go on scenic walks or bike rides through the downtown area.
What to see & do in Ottawa
Featured stories & fun stuff10 Best Things to Do in Ottawa
Ottawa is Canada’s capital city and home to the seat of the Canadian government. It promises sightseeing and attractions that are to some degree, rich in history. For this, you can make your way to picturesque Parliament Hill, home to...10 Free Things to Do in Ottawa
Ottawa offers a cool combination of culture and history backed by beautiful Canadian scenery. The best thing is, you can...10 Best Outdoor Adventures in Ottawa
This guide to the best outdoor adventures in Ottawa showcases why the city appeals to thrill-seekers from all over...10 Things to Do in Ottawa with Kids
Ottawa offers fun for the whole family in every season. With kids in tow, you can find programs and special...10 Best Festivals in Ottawa
As the Canadian capital, Ottawa offers a good mix of historical sightseeing and scenic attractions along the banks of the...10 Best Museums in Ottawa
Museums in Ottawa offer a fantastic journey into the past of this region, the country of Canada, and the entire...10 Best Things to Do for Couples in Ottawa
With Ottawa’s lush open spaces and a layout that’s very walkable, as a couple you won't have to rely much...10 Best Things to Do This Winter in Ottawa
Winter in Ottawa transforms this ultramodern, cosmopolitan capital into a wonderland of bright lights and outdoor adventures, from skiing to...
Where & what to eat in Ottawa
10 Best Local Restaurants in Ottawa
The best local restaurants in Ottawa are places where you can sample Canadian cuisine that Ottawans love. While the capital is awash with high-end restaurants, it’s also packed with superb low-key eateries for the budget-conscious diner. You...10 Great Restaurants in Ottawa
Great restaurants in Ottawa range from elegant oyster shacks to sleek fine-dining establishments. Indeed, the food scene of the Canadian capital caters to bureaucrats and an affluent crowd who have no qualms about splurging on top-quality cuisine. This...
Where to shop & what to buy in Ottawa
10 Best Places to Go Shopping in Ottawa
For the best places to go shopping in Ottawa, you’re in for a treat because the Canadian capital has got it all. From glitzy megamalls to hip retail districts and organic farmers' markets, the city has a slew of shopping options that cater to virtually every budget and taste. Whether you’re searching for a quintessential Canadian souvenir or a few...
Where to go & what to do at night in Ottawa
10 Best Things to Do After Dinner in Ottawa
The best things to do after dinner in Ottawa include top places for experiencing the city’s diverse nightlife scene. You could spend the day in prominent shopping districts browsing for local goods during the day, followed by a spot of bar-hopping after sunset. Having the Ottawa River running through Ottawa’s downtown core offers a chance to take in views...
Useful information
Ottawa Travel Essentials
Our Ottawa Travel Essentials lays out the essential information you need to help planning your trip to the capital city of Canada. No matter how frequently you travel, some questions will always need answers: What’s the weather like? How can I get from the airport to my hotel? What currency and type of plug do I need? We have all...