Although Ottawa is often said to be a boring city in Ontario to visit, this couldn’t be further from the truth. Ottawa offers people the chance to explore a big city with small city charm. This makes it a must-stop destination on any trip through Ontario. Set along the Rideau Canal and surrounded by scenic green spaces, the capital of Canada features lively neighbourhoods, world-class museums, and a thriving food scene. Whether you love history, architecture, or simply wandering through picturesque streets, there are a lot of things to do in Ottawa for all interest types.
The city of Ottawa was founded in 1826 as Bytown. It was named after the engineer who oversaw the construction of the Rideau Canal. Although it’s not as old as Montreal or Toronto, Ottawa still has a lot going for it. In 1855 it was chosen by Queen Victoria as Canada’s capital due to its strategic location between English and French-speaking Canada. Today, the city’s roots are still visible in landmarks and the preserved heritage districts. If you’re short on time, you’ll still be able to visit most of the main attractions in Ottawa in under 24 hours.
- Best things to do in Ottawa, Ontario
- Budget-friendly places to eat in Ottawa
- Where to stay in Ottawa
- Is Ottawa, Ontario worth visiting?
Best things to do in Ottawa, Ontario
ByWard Market
One of the top things to do in Ottawa during any trip to the city is to visit one of the oldest and most historic public markets in Canada. ByWard Market was established in 1826 by the same engineer behind the Rideau Canal. It began as a gathering place for tradespeople and farmers, and since then it’s grown into a vibrant neighbourhood filled with restaurants, artisan shops, and produce stalls. You can even join a ByWard Market food tour if you want to learn more about its development.
Today the market is one of the busiest attractions in Ottawa. It’s a favourite spot for grabbing a BeaverTail, sitting outside on a patio during the summer, and browsing handmade goods. The historic market building and the surrounding streets make the market a hub of activity throughout the year. It’s a great first stop on any Ottawa itinerary.
Take a photo with the Ottawa Sign
Before leaving the ByWard Market area, don’t forget to snap a photo with the famous Ottawa sign. This illuminated sign has become one of the city’s most iconic photography spots. It was originally installed as a temporary piece, but its popularity made the city rethink its removal. If you’re making your way to Parliament Hill from the ByWard Market, you’ll probably come across the sign anyways. There’s always a lot of people waiting here for photos here, so be prepared to jump in whenever a gap appears!
Walk up the colourful steps
Just behind the Ottawa sign sits a vibrant set of steps that’s been beautifully transformed into a colourful landmark. The York Steps connect the bustling ByWard Market area to Major’s Hill Park, sitting close to the National Gallery of Canada. The steps are regularly refreshed with colourful designs and public art, making them a great spot to take photos. When we visited, the steps were painted with colourful flowers and different types of birds.
Explore Parliament Hill
No trip to Ottawa is complete without visiting Parliament Hill. It’s one of the best things to do in Ottawa at any time of the year. This is the political and architectural heart of the city. Construction here started just after Ottawa was named the capital of Canada, and the Gothic Revival buildings quickly became national symbols.
The Centre Block is the main building on Parliament Hill, known for its iconic Peace Tower. Unfortunately it’s now closed for a major restoration project. However, you can still sign up for a free tour of four of the other parliamentary buildings online. While you’re visiting Parliament Hill, make sure you don’t miss the Changing of the Guards in the summer months, as well as the Centennial Flame.
National Gallery of Canada and Maman
The National Gallery of Canada opened in the late 19th century, but the modern building you see today was completed in 1988. The gallery is home to some of Canada’s most important collections of Canadian, Indigenous, and international art. It’s always a nice spot to visit in the colder weather if you want to escape the freezing temperatures. If you don’t have time to go inside, it’s worth walking to as there are a few other attractions surrounding it.
For example, the 9-metre tall spider sculpture, Maman, stands outside of the gallery. Taking a photo under it has become one of the best things to do in Ottawa. The sculpture represents motherhood and protection, and the artist drew inspiration from her own mother. Also in this area is where you’ll find Notre Dame Cathedral Basilica and the Royal Canadian Mint.
Rideau Canal
The Rideau Canal is the oldest continuously operated canal system in North America. The canal has also been named a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Completed in 1832, its original purpose was military. It was meant to provide a secure shipping route between Kingston and Montreal in case of an American invasion. Even though it was never used for defence, and it became a key waterway for trade and transportation in the 19th century.
In the warmer months, visitors can enjoy cycling or walking along the paths next to the canal. Or, you can opt for a scenic Rideau Canal boat ride. In the winter, the canal is transformed into the world’s largest skating rink. This is open to anyone, and it’s one experience you won’t want to miss out on.
Find the Famous Five statues
Located near Parliament Hill, across the road from the famous Fairmont Château Laurier, is where you’ll find the Famous Five monument. It celebrates five Canadian women who helped achieve a historic victory for women’s rights. In 1929, their efforts led to the Persons Case, which eventually recognized women as “persons” under Canadian law. This made them eligible to be appointed to the Senate as well.
The way the statues are set up makes it look like you’re being invited to a tea party. It’s an accessible monument that definitely stands out among other statues dotted around downtown Ottawa.
Visit a museum in Ottawa
One of the best things to do in Ottawa is to enjoy the incredible collection of museums around the city. Each museum in Ottawa offers a deep dive into Canadian culture, history, or natural science, so there’s something for everyone. Places like the Canadian Museum of History, the Bytown Museum, and the Canadian Museum of Nature are all worth adding to your itinerary. Ottawa’s museums are both educational and engaging, making them the perfect year-round activity to do.
Locate the statue of Samuel De Champlain
The statue of Samuel De Champlain commemorates the French explorer who’s often referred to as the “Father of New France”. Champlain is known for mapping the Ottawa River in the early 1600s. This helped paved the way for European settlers to come to the region. The statue is located in Kiweki Point, not far from the National Gallery of Canada. This is where you’ll find plenty of other statues tooo that are worth taking a look at.
Cross over to Quebec using the Alexandra Bridge
Did you know you can walk from Ottawa into Quebec? The Alexandra Bridge is one of the oldest steel bridges in Canada. In fact, it was originally built for trains in the early 20th century. The bridge connects downtown Ottawa with Gatineau, making it a key link between the two provinces. Today, Alexandra Bridge offers a fantastic panoramic view of the river and Parliament Hill. This viewpoint is accessible by using the pedestrian walkway, so it’s easy to find.
Admire the views from Kiweki Point
What was previously called Nepean Point has now been redeveloped and renamed Kiweki Point. This name comes from the Algonquin word meaning “returning to one’s homeland”, honouring the Indigenous heritage of the region. The modern design of the lookout includes terraces, curved walkways, and some beautiful statues to admire. In my opinion, visiting Kiweki Point is one of the best things to do in Ottawa. From here you’ll find an unobstructed view of Parliament Hill and its surroundings. I’d recommend coming near sunset if you want nice lighting for photos.
Watch the sunset from Copper Spirits and Sights
Copper Spirits and Sights is located on the top floor of Andaz Ottawa ByWard Market. It claims to offer the best rooftop views of the city – and I’d have to agree. The bar provides sweeping views of the ByWard Market, Parliament Hill, and the Ottawa River, as well as the rest of the city. It offers a stylish setting to relax after a day of exploring all of the things to do in Ottawa, and there’s food available as well as cocktails and other drinks. This is a must-stop for anyone looking to end their day with a memorable view.
Budget-friendly places to eat in Ottawa
BeaverTails
If you’re spending a day in Ottawa, or more, you have to stop by the BeaverTails stall in the Byward Market. BeaverTails is one of the most iconic treats in Canada, and the brand actually started in Ottawa, so there’s no better place to try it out. Essentially what you’re ordering is a hand-stretched, deep-fried wholewheat dough shaped like a beaver’s tail. You can then select the toppings you’d like, such as cinnamon-sugar, nutella and bananas, or maple butter. This is a great spot to eat in Ottawa as you walk around the ByWard Market area.
Elgin Street Diner
While you’re visiting Ottawa, a walk down Elgin Street is essential as it’s where a number of popular eateries and shops are located. Elgin Street Diner opened in 1986 and it’s still one of the city’s most beloved institutions. It’s known for its retro vibes and 24/7 service, making it the perfect place to come for comfort food at any time of the day.
We visited on Canadian Thanksgiving, so they had a Thanksgiving dinner available which was amazing. Their regular menu is full of tasty options such as club sandwiches, loaded poutine, and of course enormous milkshakes. If you’re visiting Ottawa on a budget, Elgin Street Diner should be your first stopping point for big portions at affordable prices.
Where to stay in Ottawa
Andaz Ottawa ByWard Market, by Hyatt
In the heart of the Byward Market sits Andaz Ottawa ByWard Market, by Hyatt – one of the city’s most stylish hotels. Its design draws inspiration from Canada’s natural landscape, with warm wooden accents and a modern minimalist aesthetic in all of the rooms. The hotel’s central location makes it ideal for exploring the centre of Ottawa and all of its main attractions. There’s even a valet service available so you don’t need to worry about where to park in Ottawa.
The King View room is situated in a corner so you’ll get sweeping city views. The room is very spacious, with a plush king-size bed, a walk-in closet, a modern walk-in shower, and thoughtful touches like curated art pieces and a welcome treat of wine and macarons. There’s a lot of natural light that comes into this room, and in the evening you can sit down and enjoy the twinkling lights of the city below. We couldn’t fault this room and we’d love to stay here again when we return to Ottawa.
There are lots of amenities at Andaz Ottawa ByWard Market too. Their on-site restaurant serves Canadian-inspired cuisine, with a focus on regional ingredients. There’s also a stunning rooftop bar, Copper Spirits and Sights, open to guests and non-guests, that offers panoramic city views. It’s a must-visit for sunset cocktails and it’s one of the best things to do in Ottawa as well.
The Andaz Ottawa ByWard Market is a fantastic place to stay in Ottawa if you want to relax in comfort while enjoying all that Canada’s capital has to offer.
Is Ottawa, Ontario worth visiting?
So, is Ottawa worth visiting? Absolutely! Ottawa offers visitors a rare mixture of culture, outdoor adventure, history, and small-city charm, so it’s perfect for all types of travellers. From exploring Parliament Hill to walking or skating along the Rideau Canal and enjoying the many museums and galleries, there are a lot of things to do in Ottawa at any time of the year. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or you can only spend 24 hours in Ottawa, it’s one city in Ontario that has to be on your itinerary.
If you have any questions about things to do in Ottawa, where to eat in Ottawa, or which hotel in Ottawa to stay at, please feel free to reach out. You can get in touch via email or through the contact form on my website. Don’t forget to follow along with my travels on Instagram and TikTok too, where you may come across more helpful travel tips for your next Canadian adventure.
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