Things to do · Ottawa, Canada

Things to Do in Ottawa

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Getting there
Ottawa is served by Ottawa Macdonald‑Cartier International Airport, about ten kilometres from downtown and reachable by a 20‑minute taxi or shuttle ride. Many visitors also arrive via Montreal’s Pierre Elliott Trudeau Airport, roughly 150 km away, then drive or take the VIA Rail corridor that stops at Ottawa’s central station. Seasonal bus routes from nearby U.S. cities add another option.
Who goes
The city welcomes roughly two million visitors each year, drawing a mix of government officials, cultural tourists and outdoor enthusiasts. Summer months, especially July and August, see the highest crowds as festivals fill the streets, while late winter and early spring tend to be the quietest periods when hotel rates dip. Families and solo travelers alike find something to suit their pace.
Budgeting
A careful traveler can expect to spend around CAD 70–90 per day (roughly US$52–66), while a comfortable stay often runs CAD 130–180 (about US$97–135), with dining and accommodation taking the biggest share. To stretch your budget, consider staying in a boutique hostel or budget hotel in the ByWard Market area, where you’ll find good food and easy access to attractions at lower rates. Estimate →

  1. Parliament Hill

    attraction · Free

    The seat of Canada's federal government, featuring Gothic Revival parliamentary buildings and expansive grounds. A must-see landmark for its architecture, history, and views over the Ottawa River.

  2. Rideau Canal National Historic Site

    attraction · Free

    A UNESCO World Heritage waterway running through Ottawa, used for boating in summer and transforming into the world's largest skating rink in winter. A defining feature of the city enjoyed year-round.

  3. National Gallery of Canada

    gallery · C$22

    Canada's premier art museum, housing extensive collections of Canadian, Indigenous, and international art in a landmark glass-and-granite building. A must-see for art lovers.

  4. Canadian Museum of History

    attraction · C$25

    Canada's most-visited museum, located across the river in Gatineau, showcasing the country's human history and Indigenous cultures through extensive exhibits including the Grand Hall. A major draw for anyone interested in Canadian heritage.

  5. Canadian War Museum

    attraction · C$23

    Canada's national museum of military history, presenting exhibits on the nation's conflicts from early wars to modern peacekeeping. A key destination for those interested in history and remembrance.

  6. Canadian Museum of Nature / Musée canadien de la nature

    attraction · C$26

    A national natural history museum housed in a castle-like heritage building, featuring dinosaur fossils, wildlife dioramas, and mineral galleries. Popular with families and science enthusiasts.

  7. The National War Memorial

    attraction · Free

    A prominent bronze and granite monument in downtown Ottawa commemorating Canadians who served in war, including the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. Travelers visit for its historical and ceremonial importance.

  8. Notre Dame Cathedral Basilica

    church · Free

    Ottawa's oldest and largest church, a Gothic Revival basilica noted for its ornate interior and twin spires. A landmark of religious and architectural significance.

  9. Rideau Hall

    attraction · Free

    The official residence and workplace of Canada's Governor General, set on landscaped grounds with heritage architecture and public gardens. Visitors come for tours and the extensive grounds.

  10. Royal Canadian Mint

    attraction · C$14

    Canada's historic mint producing collector and bullion coins, offering tours showcasing coin production and gold bars. A distinctive stop for history and craft enthusiasts.

  11. Rideau Canal, Locks 1 - 8 - Ottawa

    attraction · Free

    The historic flight of eight locks where the UNESCO-listed Rideau Canal descends to the Ottawa River, framed by Parliament Hill and the Fairmont Château Laurier. Travelers come to watch the manually operated locks, stroll the waterside, and take in the scenic setting.

  12. Major's Hill Park

    park · Free

    A central urban park overlooking the Ottawa River, Parliament Hill, and the ByWard Market area. A pleasant green space for strolling and taking in city views.

  13. Bank of Canada Museum

    attraction · Free

    An interactive museum in downtown Ottawa dedicated to the history of money and the Canadian economy. Travelers visit for engaging, hands-on exhibits about currency and central banking.

  14. Canada Agriculture and Food Museum

    attraction · C$15

    A working farm museum in the city with live animals, exhibits on agriculture and food, and interactive displays. Especially popular with families and children.

  15. Dow's Lake

    attraction · Free

    A scenic urban lake and section of the Rideau Canal in Ottawa, popular for pedal boating in summer and skating in winter. Travelers visit for waterfront recreation, tulip displays in spring, and lakeside strolling.

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