Maksym KuzaievOttawa is packed to the brim with fun, adventure, and a bit of that old-world charm. I mean, where else can you explore pieces of modern art and also get lost in a marketplace bustling with fruity, foodie, and antique goodies all in the same day?!
So, to help out first-timers like yourself, here’s a list of the top must-see attractions in Ottawa. Think of it like your blueprint to get the most out of your visit, so keep on reading!
Canadian Museum of Nature
Website: http://nature.ca/
Address: 240 McLeod St, Ottawa, ON K2P 2R1, Canada
Contact details: +1 800-263-4433
Operating hours:
- Monday, Wednesday, Friday to Sunday – 9:30 AM to 4 PM
- Thursday – 9:30 AM to 8 PM
Cost:
- Adult – $17.50
- Senior – $15.50
- Ages 0 to 2 – Free
- Ages 3 to 12 – $13.50
- Student (Ages 13 to 17) – $15.50
- Student (18+) – $15.50
The Canadian Museum of Nature is a castle (yes, an actual castle) filled to the brim with dinosaurs, dazzling minerals, and even an indoor Arctic exhibit. From the moment you step inside, you’re transported into a world where science, history, and art collide.
The museum does a fantastic job of making you feel like you’re walking through different dimensions. One minute you’re marvelling at a T-Rex, and the next, you’re learning about how beavers were once Canada’s most valuable fur traders.
| Pro tip: The museum offers free admission on Thursday evenings. It’s perfect for those who want to soak up some culture without spending a dime. Just remember, it can get a bit crowded, so if you’re not a fan of lines, aim to visit during the day on weekdays. |
Parliament Hill
– Media credit: hushblushxo
Website: https://www.parl.ca/
Address: Wellington St, Ottawa, ON K1A 0A9, Canada
Contact details: +1 613-992-4793
Operating hours:
- Monday to Thursday – 8:30 AM to 6 PM
- Friday – 8:30 AM to 5 PM
Cost: Free
Parliament Hill is not just a place where big decisions are made; it’s also a hub of activity and beauty that you can’t miss. Located on the banks of the Ottawa River, the gothic-style buildings are a sight to behold, especially during the magical golden hour.
During the summer, you can catch the Changing of the Guard ceremony, where you’ll see soldiers in red and black uniforms performing a perfectly choreographed military drill. There are also free guided tours for a sneak peek into Canada’s political heart.
| Pro tip: The tours are insanely popular, so booking in advance is a smart move. Also, don’t forget to check out the sound and light show that takes place on the hill during the summer months. |
Canada Aviation and Space Museum
Website: https://ingeniumcanada.org/aviation
Address: 11 Aviation Pkwy, Ottawa, ON K1K 2X5, Canada
Contact details: +1 613-991-3044
Operating hours:
- Monday, Thursday to Sunday – 9 AM to 5 PM
Cost: $10 to $15
The Canada Aviation and Space Museum is practically overflowing with planes, jets, and spacecraft. If you ever wanted to see a piece of the Avro Arrow or a real-life spaceship, this museum has got you covered.
There are interactive exhibits, flight simulators that give you a taste of flying, and even biplane rides available during the summer. It’s all, of course, educational, and exhilarating, and it’s a must-visit, especially if you ever dreamed of flying.
| Pro tip: Make sure you keep an eye out for special events and temporary exhibits; they’re always bringing in something new and fascinating. And for those wanting a truly unique experience, the biplane rides, while not cheap, offer an unforgettable view of Ottawa from above. |
Rideau Canal
Website: https://ncc-ccn.gc.ca/places/rideau-canal-skateway
Address: 1 Elgin St, Ottawa, ON K1P 5W1, Canada
Contact details: +1 613-239-5000
Operating hours:
- Open 24 hours
Cost: Free
Rideau Canal is Ottawa’s historic waterway and the world’s largest skating rink come wintertime. During the summer, it’s a serene spot for boating, cycling, and strolling along its banks.
It has kilometres of smooth ice, bordered by the city’s picturesque landscape. There are also cosy rest areas with fire pits, tasty snack stops serving up hot chocolate, and BeaverTails (a Canadian pastry delight).
| Pro tip: Skating on the Canal is free, but equipment rentals aren’t. Also, check the ice conditions online before you go; safety comes first! |
Notre Dame Cathedral Basilica
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Website: http://www.notredameottawa.com/
Address: 385 Sussex Dr, Ottawa, ON K1N 1J9, Canada
Contact details: +1 613-241-7496
Operating hours:
- Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday – 9 AM to 6 PM
- Wednesday, Saturday and Sunday – 9 AM to 7 PM
Cost: Free or by donation
Notre Dame Cathedral Basilica is an architectural masterpiece that stands as a testament to Ottawa’s rich history and spiritual community. It’s an art piece, decked out with stunning stained glass, intricate wood carvings, and awe-inspiring statues.
Whether you’re there for a service, a tour, or just to bask in its beauty, the Cathedral offers a moment of peace and reflection amidst the hustle and bustle of city life. It’s a place where history, art, and spirituality merge, leaving visitors with a sense of wonder.
| Pro tip: The cathedral is still an active place of worship, so check the schedule before visiting to avoid any private events or services. And while there’s no entrance fee, donations are always appreciated. |
Bank of Canada Museum
Website: https://www.bankofcanadamuseum.ca/
Address: 30 Bank St, Ottawa, ON K1A 0G9, Canada
Contact details: +1 613-782-8914
Operating hours:
- Monday, Thursday to Sunday – 10 AM to 5 PM
Cost: Free
Tucked away, almost like a secret vault, the Bank of Canada Museum is nothing short of fascinating. This museum takes you on a journey through the history of currency with interactive displays and games.
And it’s not just for the finance aficionados; it’s for anyone who’s ever wondered, “What makes money, money?” You get to see how the economy functions, dive into interactive policy decisions and even design your currency.
| Pro tip: Admission is free (fitting for a museum about money, eh?), making this a must-visit for those on a budget. It’s usually quieter during the weekdays, making it the perfect escape from the hustle of the city. |
ByWard Market
Website: https://www.byward-market.com/
Address: 55 ByWard Market Square; Ottawa, Ontario; K1N 9C3
Contact details: +1 613-244-4410
Operating hours:
- Open 24 hours
If Ottawa had a beating heart, it might just be the ByWard Market. This isn’t just a market; it’s a cultural mosaic packed into city blocks, where farmers, artisans, chefs, and creators converge.
During the day, you can wander through stands of fresh produce, unique crafts, and gourmet foods that’ll give your taste buds joy. By night, the area transforms into a hub with bars, restaurants, and clubs offering up a good time with a side of local charm.
| Pro tip: Wear comfy shoes, ‘cause you’re going to want to explore every nook and cranny. And, the market is most vibrant on weekends but also more crowded. So, for a more relaxed experience, consider a weekday visit. |
Diefenbunker: Canada’s Cold War Museum
Website: https://diefenbunker.ca/
Address: 3929 Carp Rd, Ottawa, ON K0A 1L0, Canada
Contact details: +1 613-839-0007
Operating hours:
- Wednesday to Friday – 10 AM to 4 PM
- Saturday and Sunday – 10 AM to 3 PM
Cost:
- Adult (18+) – $18.50
- Senior (60+) – $17.00
- Student (18+) – $14.00
- Youth (6–17) – $12.00
- Family Rate (2 Adults, 5 Youth) – $49.50
- Child 5 and under – Free
The Diefenbunker offers a chilling (literally, it’s underground) walk through history. This massive underground bunker, designed to protect against nuclear attacks, now serves as a museum dedicated to the Cold War era.
From the war room to the Prime Minister’s suite, the museum is as educational as it is eerie. It’s not every day you get to explore a place built for the end of the world.
| Pro tip: It’s cooler underground, so bring a sweater. And while the bunker is a bit out of the city, it’s well worth the trek, especially since they often host special events and workshops, so check their calendar before your visit. |
Dows Lake Pavilion
Website: http://www.dowslake.com/
Address: 1001 Queen Elizabeth Driveway, Ottawa, ON K1S 5K7, Canada
Contact details: +1 613-232-1001
Operating hours:
- Monday to Sunday – 9 AM to 7 PM
Cost: Free (except for rentals)
Dows Lake Pavilion is where locals go to escape the city without actually leaving it. This place is an oasis for nature lovers, offering canoe, kayak, and paddleboat rentals in the summer.
It also boasts a selection of restaurants with patios that offer stunning views of the lake and the lush landscape. And let’s not forget the Tulip Festival in the spring, where the surrounding gardens are ablaze with colour and life.
| Pro tip: If you’re visiting during a festival, make reservations at the restaurants in advance since they fill up fast! And while parking is available, it’s limited, so consider biking or using public transit on busier days. |
Canadian Museum of History
– Media credit: outaouais
Website: https://www.historymuseum.ca/
Address: 100 Laurier St, Gatineau, Quebec K1A 0M8, Canada
Contact details: +1 819-776-7000
Operating hours:
- Tuesday and Wednesday, Friday to Sunday – 9 AM to 4 PM
- Thursday – 9 AM to 7 PM
Cost:
- Adult – $22
- Senior – $20
- Student – $17
- Ages 2 to 12 – $15
- Family (6 pax +2 adults) – $55
- Guided Tour – $5
The Canadian Museum of History is a testament to Canada’s rich tapestry, boasting the world’s largest collection of totem poles among its many exhibits. The museum’s architecture, with its sweeping curves and indigenous motifs, is a sight to behold.
Exhibits here are immersive and interactive, making history feel alive and relevant. And don’t even get me started on the Children’s Museum within it—it’s an adventure in itself, allowing kids (and adults, no judgment) to explore the world in a single visit.
| Pro tip: The museum offers free admission on Thursday evenings, like its natural sibling. Also, consider checking out the IMAX theatre for an unparalleled cinematic experience. |
National Gallery of Canada
Website: http://www.gallery.ca/
Address: 380 Sussex Dr, Ottawa, ON K1N 9N4, Canada
Contact details: +1 613-990-1985
Operating hours:
- Tuesday to Sunday – 10 AM to 5 PM
Cost:
- Adults – $20
- Senior – $18
- Ages 24 and under/Students – $10
- Families – $40
- Children – Free
The National Gallery of Canada is a massive, stunning space filled with jaw-dropping art that spans centuries. From towering totem poles to the Group of Seven’s mesmerising landscapes, this place has it all.
Plus, the building itself is a masterpiece, designed by renowned architect Moshe Safdie. And let’s not forget Maman, the giant spider sculpture guarding the entrance, making every Instagrammer’s heart skip a beat.
| Pro tip: Admission is on the house every Thursday evening, which is pretty sweet if you’re looking to soak up some culture on the cheap. Also, the gallery isn’t just about looking; there are often workshops and talks that’ll make you feel like an insider in no time. |
Peace Tower
– Media credit: arash_xh
Address: Wellington St, Ottawa, ON K1A 0A9, Canada
Contact details: +1 613-992-4793
Operating hours:
- Monday to Thursday – 8:30 AM to 6 PM
- Friday – 8:30 AM to 5 PM
Cost: Free
The Peace Tower in the heart of Parliament Hill is something else in person. Climbing up this iconic structure is a rite of passage because the view from up top is nothing short of spectacular.
You get to see the Ottawa River, the Gatineau Hills, and the entire city laid out before you like a finely woven tapestry. Inside, you’ve got the Memorial Chamber, which is a touching tribute to Canadians who’ve served in wars and peacekeeping missions.
| Pro tip: Here’s the thing: You can’t just rock up to the tower. You need to grab a free ticket from the visitor centre across the street. And remember, it’s popular, so snagging your ticket early is a smart move. Oh, and bring your ID since security is tight, as you’d expect. |
Royal Canadian Mint
Website: https://www.mint.ca/en/visit-the-mint/ottawa-mint?rcmeid=Google_MyBusiness_Ottawa
Address: 320 Sussex Dr, Ottawa, ON K1A 0G8, Canada
Contact details: +1 613-993-0949
Operating hours:
- Tuesday to Sunday – 10 AM to 5 PM
Cost:
- Adults (18+) – $12
- Children (ages 5-17) – $8
- Seniors (65+) – $10
- Infants (ages 4 and under) – Free
- Family (2 adults, 2 children) – $30
The Royal Canadian Mint is where Canadian coins are born, going from mere designs to shiny, jingly reality. Taking a guided tour here is like stepping into the vault of secrets, where you get to see the crafting of collector coins, Olympic medals, and gold bars.
It’s also a place where you can delve into the history of Canadian currency, grasp the complexities of coin production, and maybe even hold a solid gold bar in your hands (it’s heavy, trust me).
| Pro tip: The tours are super popular, so booking in advance is a wise choice. Although there’s a fee for the guided tour, it’s worth every penny for the cool stuff you’ll learn. Plus, there’s a gift shop where you can grab some unique souvenirs to commemorate your visit. |
