Why Visit Ottawa

Tour the Gothic-style Parliament Buildings overlooking the confluence of the rivers Ottawa, Rideau and Gatineau. The 92 metre (302 ft) Peace Tower affords a panoramic view of the city and its surroundings. Witness the colourful Changing of the Guard daily in July and August – and come back in the evening for an immersive sound and light show (for free!).

Indulge your passion for the arts at the National Gallery of Canada. Learn about Canada’s Indigenous people through traditional music and dance performances, storytelling and displays with Indigenous Experiences Stroll the cobblestone courtyards of the ByWard Market, one of Canada’s oldest and largest markets with an eclectic collection of boutiques, fruit, vegetable and flower vendors, restaurants and nightlife.

Spend a day or two museum-hopping. Do not miss the Canadian Museum of History and the Canadian War Museum – both considered cultural and architectural wonders. There’s also the Canadian Museum of Nature, plus the Canada Aviation & Space Museum, Canada Science and Technology Museum, Royal Canadian Mint and many others.

Amid all this history and culture, take time to cruise, stroll or cycle along the Rideau Canal, a spectacular focal point of the city – and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. In winter, go skating after it transforms into the largest rink in the world, stretching 7.8 km. And if you want outdoor adventure that cranks up the adrenaline quotient, the Ottawa River is one of the top 5 whitewater rafting rivers in the world –and it’s just 90 minutes away. Family-friendly tours are available.

Festivals and events are year-round affairs in Ottawa. Each February, celebrate Winterlude. Taste sweet maple treats at the many annual March-April maple syrup festivals in Lanark County - the "Maple Syrup Capital of Ontario." Admire a city awash with brilliant colour during the Canadian Tulip Festival. Scat, be-bop and swing at the Ottawa Jazz Festival or dig the blues at the Ottawa Blues Festival.