City Name
Temperature
Home » Recent posts » Why Ottawa’s Peace Tower Is a Must-Visit Landmark

Why Ottawa’s Peace Tower Is a Must-Visit Landmark

peace-tower-ottawa

Standing tall and proud, the Peace Tower is packed with history and symbolism that tells the tale of a nation. So, before you pack your suitcase, check out our guide for all the information you’ll need to make the most of your visit to Ottawa’s towering treasure.

Because, trust us, this is one experience you don’t want to miss out on. So, read on—there’s plenty to discover before you set foot in the shadow of our city’s iconic landmark!

Time Zone

Central European Standard Time (GMT+1)

Best Time to Go

The best time to visit the Peace Tower is during the summer season, particularly from July to August. The weather during this time is just right—warm but not too hot, and the city buzzes with energy.

Moreover, you cannot miss the Northern Lights sound and light show. This show usually runs from July to September and paints the Parliament Building with wild colours and stories—and it’s free! 

Things to Know

Currency: Canadian Dollar
(Check the current exchange rate)

Language: English

Calling Code: +613

How to Get Around Peace Tower

Buses: OC Transpo provides extensive bus service in Ottawa, with routes offering direct and accessible service to the Peace Tower. You can utilise the Transit app for real-time updates and route planning, available on both Android and IOS.

Ridesharing: Uber provides ridesharing services throughout Ottawa, offering a quick and easy way to reach the Peace Tower directly from your location. This app-based service allows for seamless booking and payment, so it’s a hassle-free experience.

Where to Stay near Peace Tower

ByWard Blue Inn

Media credit: quinn_the_explorer

Address: 157 Clarence St., Ottawa, ON K1N 5P7, Canada
Phone: +1 613-241-2695

Pricing: $-$$

Book Now

ByWard Blue Inn’s each room has its balcony or patio. If you’re an art appreciator, its surroundings are decked with local artist exhibits—not to mention, the National Gallery of Canada is just a few steps away.

Service-wise, they’ve got you covered with complimentary breakfasts and afternoon tea or coffee with snacks. They also offer free WiFi and laundry facilities, which is a big plus for prolonged stays.

Beyond that, there’s a wide array of cafes and restaurants in the market next door.

Pro tip:

Make use of the public lounge or the patio and garden here; be it working on your project or meeting fellow travellers.

Fairmont Chateau Laurier

Address: 1 Rideau St, Ottawa, ON K1N 8S7, Canada
Phone: +1 613-241-1414

Pricing: $$$
Book Now

The Fairmont Chateau Laurier has an air of historical glamour to it. With iconic, gothic-style architecture, it embodies the look of a downtown castle.

Functionality isn’t sacrificed for aesthetics since you can enjoy an indoor pool, a health club, and three onsite restaurants. And for tech junkies, all rooms come with high-speed internet.

What’s more, the shopping district Rideau Centre is just next door if retail therapy is your thing.

Pro tip:

Make time for “Wilfrid’s,” one of the three in-house eateries. Known for its locally sourced fare, it’s a great place for some real Canadian cuisine.

The Metcalfe Hotel by Gray Collection

Media credit: ottawalist

Address: 123 Metcalfe St, Ottawa, ON K1P 5L9, Canada
Phone: +1 613-231-6555

Pricing: $$$

Book Now

The Metcalfe Hotel offers a chic lobby that doubles as a cosy workspace and social spot. Of course, on your stay, there will be breakfast for you, which you can have at their Cocotte Bistro along with freshly brewed coffee.

Plus, the hotel offers a fitness centre, a sauna, and a full-service laundry, which is perfect if you’re planning to stay long.

Pro tip:

Don’t forget to bring Fido along since Metcalfe is a dog-friendly joint.

The Westin Ottawa

Address: 11 Colonel By Dr, Ottawa, ON K1N 9H4, Canada
Phone: +1 613-560-7000

Pricing: $$

Book Now

The Westin Ottawa offers premium views of downtown Ottawa and the Rideau Canal. But the view isn’t the only highlight here, as it has an extensive selection of amenities, including a full fitness centre, an indoor pool, and 24-hour room service.

Their rooms follow a minimalist design, featuring ‘Westin Heavenly Bed,’ known for a sound night’s sleep. Plus, you can ride their glass elevators to the top for an unforgettable city view.

Pro tip:

If you’re a pet owner, you’ll be pleased to know that The Westin Ottawa is pet-friendly. They even offer Westin Heavenly Dog Beds for your four-legged friends.

McGee’s Inn

Media credit: monsieurlebun

Address: 185 Daly Ave, Ottawa, ON K1N 6E8, Canada
Phone: +1 ​613-237-6089 

Pricing: $-$$

Book Now

McGee’s is for those who crave a homely feel amid their travels. This 125-year-old Victorian-style inn imparts a sense of history while providing modern-day comforts—you know, Wi-Fi, parking, and full breakfast that are included with your stay.

For its room, expect antique furniture and warm wood finishings, but also expect en-suite bathrooms, air conditioners, and flat-screen TVs.

Pro tip:

If you’re a food enthusiast, be sure to check out the nearby Elgin Street. It offers a great variety of dining options, approved by locals and guests alike.

Where to Eat near Peace Tower

Riviera

Address: 62 Sparks St., Ottawa, ON K1P 5A5, Canada
Phone: +1 613-233-6262

Pricing: $$-$$$
Website

Riviera is an upscale dining destination serving Canadian cuisine with a twist. But don’t let the chic atmosphere intimidate you; the menu is accessible and diverse enough to explore.

You can find delightful food options like smoked duck breast, dry-aged striploin steak, and a variety of seafood dishes, whether you want them raw, on pasta, or grilled. Plus, no visit to Riviera is complete without plunging into their seafood tower.

Oh, but let’s not forget about the drinks! Riviera houses an impressive selection of wines, cocktails, and an extensive range of spirits.

Pro tip:

Try to snag a seat by the bar during your visit; it’s the best place to appreciate the beauty of this stunning Art Deco restaurant while enjoying your meal.

Play Food and Wine

Address: 1 York St, Ottawa, ON K1N 5S7, Canada
Phone: +1 613-667-9207

Pricing: $$
Website

Situated on York Street, Play Food and Wine is an industrial chic wine and tapas bar that you definitely won’t want to miss. Its unique approach to creating shareable dishes allows you to explore a range of flavour profiles.

We’re talking about an expansive menu featuring cheese boards, small plates like smoked pork ribs, fish cake, and scallop crudo. And just when you thought it couldn’t get any better, wait ’til you see their extensive wine list.

Pro tip:

If you’re thinking of giving someone a real treat or just want to spoil yourself, how about snagging a gift certificate? 

Not only does it promise an awesome time at Play, but get this: you can also use it to dig into the culinary delights at its sibling spots, Beckta Dining & Wine and Gezellig.

The Albion Rooms

Address: 33 Nicholas St, Ottawa, ON K1N 9M7, Canada
Phone: +1 613-760-4771

Pricing: $$
Website

The Albion Rooms steals the show with its versatile food menu that boasts everything from handcrafted charcuterie and fish and chips to mains like duck confit, steak and scallops..

The drink offerings here are just as impressive, with a stellar selection of their signature cocktails, and fine wines that’ll quench your thirst.

Pro tip:

Make sure to check out their daily specials—an amazing way to taste something uniquely delicious while keeping things exciting during your visit.

D’Arcy McGee’s

Address:  44 Sparks St., Ottawa, ON K1P 5A8, Canada
Phone: +1 613-230-4433

Pricing: $$-$$$
Website

D’Arcy McGee’s, a favourite on Sparks Street, has all the charm you would expect from an Irish pub. Beyond traditional pub fare such as fish and chips or Shepherd’s Pie, you’ll find a mix of burgers, chicken wings, and salads.

Moreover, you can have one of their pints from their wide range of local and international beers, ciders, or maybe one of their fabulous cocktails.

Pro tip:

Don’t forget to try their signature Lucky Blue Breeze, as it’s the perfect blend of smirnoff vodka, blue curacao and sweet and sour mix. Trust us, it’s the pick-me-up you never knew you needed.

Supply and Demand

Address: 1335 Wellington St. W, Ottawa, ON K1Y 3B7, Canada
Phone: +1 613-680-2949

Pricing: $-$$
Website

Located on Wellington Street, Supply and Demand is an absolute paradise for seafood lovers. They serve up everything from raw oysters or tuna crudos to shrimps and squids.

Their offerings extend to their tasty small plates, pastas, and desserts, where you’ll come across the crowd’s favourites such as fried Brussels sprouts, squid ink rigatoni, and baked alaska.

Pro tip:

Their made-from-scratch plates of pasta aren’t to be missed! Also, they source a lot of their ingredients locally, so make sure to ask your server about the daily specials.

What to Do in Peace Tower

Witness a carillon performance

Media credit: travelesquelife

The Peace Tower houses a massive carillon consisting of 53 bells, played by a professional carillonneur. The Carillon recitals extend into an hour-long session that showcases an impressive range of music.

They play this crazy variety of music, everything from deep, serious classical stuff that makes you feel like you’re stepping back into Canada’s past, right up to some modern tunes that are so vibrant and complex that they’ll take you by surprise!

Pro tip:

Performances are usually scheduled around noon, but it’s wise to check the official Parliament of Canada website for the exact schedule and special recital days.

Attend some commemorative events

Media credit: tyleramcole

Ottawa’s Peace Tower and Parliament Hill are also significant for their role in hosting various commemorative events throughout the year. These events range from Canada Day celebrations to more serious, thoughtful events like Remembrance Day.

What’s cool is that they’re not just ceremonies; they’re interactive. They give you a real shot to experience and understand what Canada’s culture and history are all about.

Pro tip:

Planning your visit around these commemorative events can be a great way to experience Canadian culture deeply. However, be prepared for larger crowds and heightened security measures during these times.

Check out the impressive Memorial Chamber

Media credit: pspc_spac

The Memorial Chamber is a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by Canadians in armed conflicts. 

The chamber itself is a beautifully crafted space dedicated to the memory of fallen soldiers, with books of remembrance displaying the names of those who have died.

It’s a solemn, reflective space that allows you to pause and pay respects. The detailing in the architecture and the ambient tranquillity make it a profound experience.

Pro tip:

To enhance your experience, try to time your visit to witness the daily Turning of the Page ceremony.

Also, the guides are incredibly knowledgeable, so don’t hesitate to ask questions to gain deeper insights into the significance of the space.

Climb to the tower’s observation deck

Media credit: amani_khensani_tawana

Heading to the tower’s observation deck offers a literal breath of fresh air. The deck provides an unparalleled 360-degree view of Ottawa, from the rolling Ottawa River to the bustling downtown streets.

It’s an ideal spot if you’re into capturing great photos or want to take a moment to appreciate the beauty and sprawl of Canada’s capital from an eagle’s perspective.

Pro tip:

Remember to visit the deck during the golden hour for some truly spectacular views and photos. However, keep in mind that the queue can get long, especially in peak tourist season, so plan accordingly.

Experience the sound and light show

Media credit:  gaikkeattan

The Sound and Light Show is an epic nighttime show where they turn the Parliament Building into a giant screen for a multimedia extravaganza. Think bright visuals, amazing stories about Canada, and music that just gets you in the feels.

It’s a blend of education and entertainment, presented in a format that’s bound to captivate viewers of all ages. And it doesn’t matter how old you are; this show’s got something for everyone.

Pro tip:

Bring a blanket or a foldable chair for comfort during the show, as seating on the lawn can get uncomfortable. Arriving early also ensures a good viewing spot, as the area can get crowded.

Where to Shop near Peace Tower

CF Rideau Centre

Address:  50 Rideau St, Ottawa, ON K1N 9J7, Canada
Phone: +1 613-236-6565
Website

The CF Rideau Centre boasts an impressive roster of over 170 stores. From luxury brands like Nordstrom and Tiffany & Co. to popular chains like Zara and Apple, it covers the full gamut of shopping desires.

Whether you’re hunting for the latest fashion trends, tech gadgets, or beauty products, you’re very likely to find your heart’s desire here.

Pro tip:

Make sure to check the centre’s website for special events and promotions before you go. They often host events that come with exclusive deals and discounts.

La Bottega Nicastro – ByWard Market

Address:  64 George St, Ottawa, ON K1N 5V9, Canada
Phone: +1 613-789-7575
Website

La Bottega Nicastro offers a deliciously different shopping experience. This isn’t just any grocery store; it’s a treasure trove for Italian food lovers.

Think authentic Italian cheeses, meats, pasta, and sauces, plus a selection of their signature sandwiches and even wine tastings. La Bottega Nicastro is where you go when you want to add an authentic Italian touch to your meals or pick up a gourmet gift.

Pro tip:

When you’re hitting up La Bottega Nicastro in the ByWard Market, keep your eyes peeled for their cooking and wine classes. These sessions are an absolute must for anyone looking to sharpen their culinary skills or get a little wine-wise.

Sparks Street BIA & MA

Media credit: exploreecanadaa

Address: 56 Sparks St. #608, Ottawa, ON K1P 5B7, Canada
Phone: +1 613-230-0984
Website

Sparks Street BIA and MA represent the essence of Ottawa’s shopping scene. This outdoor pedestrian mall is lined with boutiques, souvenir shops, and eateries.

The variety here spans from Canadian gift shops with local crafts and maple products to stylish clothing boutiques. Sparks Street is also renowned for its vibrant atmosphere, thanks to the regular festivals and events that take place here.

Pro tip:

Try to visit during one of the outdoor festivals for unique shopping finds and street performances that enhance the shopping experience.

St. Laurent Shopping Centre

Address: 1200 St. Laurent Blvd, Ottawa, ON K1K 3B8, Canada
Phone: +1 613-745-6858
Website

St. Laurent Shopping Centre offers a sprawling space for shoppers looking for a wide variety of options. With over 190 stores, including big names like Hudson’s Bay, Sport Chek, and Indigo Books, St. Laurent has something for everyone.

The mall’s layout makes it easy to navigate, so you’ll have a smooth shopping expedition whether you’re doing serious holiday shopping or just window shopping.

Pro tip:

Remember to check out their “Today’s Deals” section on the St. Laurent Shopping Centre website before your visit. It’s a handy way to plan your shopping trip around the latest promotions and discounts.