Absolutely! Here’s a full guide to the Best Attractions in Ottawa, Canada’s charming capital. Whether you’re a tourist, visiting with family, or just exploring, Ottawa is packed with history, beauty, culture, and some surprisingly fun experiences!

🇨🇦 Best Attractions in Ottawa

🏛️ 1. Parliament Hill

  • Why Go: Canada’s political heart + stunning Gothic architecture
  • Must-See: Free guided tours, Changing of the Guard (summer), and evening Northern Lights Sound & Light Show
  • Price: Free!

🎨 2. National Gallery of Canada

  • Why Go: Iconic spider sculpture (Maman) outside, incredible Indigenous and Canadian art inside
  • Bonus: Beautiful glass architecture
  • Price: ~$20 CAD (Free Thursdays 5–8 PM)

🌊 3. Rideau Canal

  • Why Go: UNESCO World Heritage Site — paddle in summer, world’s longest skating rink in winter!
  • Activities: Boat tours, cycling, skating, picnics
  • Price: Free access (rentals extra)

🏞️ 4. Major’s Hill Park

  • Why Go: Beautiful downtown green space with epic views of Parliament and the river
  • Great For: Walks, sunsets, picnics
  • Price: Free

🦉 5. Canadian Museum of Nature

  • Why Go: Dinosaurs, giant blue whale skeleton, and interactive exhibits for all ages
  • Kid-Approved? 100% yes
  • Price: ~$20 adults / family pricing

🛶 6. ByWard Market

  • Why Go: Historic open-air market with food stalls, boutiques, patios, and beavertails (iconic snack!)
  • Best Time: Day or evening
  • Price: Free to explore (bring $$ for eats)

🧬 7. Canadian Museum of History (across the river in Gatineau)

  • Why Go: Immersive exhibits + one of the most beautiful museum buildings in the country
  • Highlight: The Grand Hall with totem poles
  • Price: ~$20 CAD

🌸 8. Commissioners Park / Tulip Festival (Spring)

  • Why Go: Over a million blooming tulips every May
  • Perfect For: Instagram, peaceful walks
  • Price: Free

🚲 9. Ottawa River Pathway & Biking Trails

  • Why Go: 600+ km of scenic bike paths through forests, along rivers, and past national landmarks
  • Tip: Rent a bike downtown or join a guided tour
  • Price: Free access

🌆 10. Peace Tower & Parliament Hill Tour

  • Why Go: Go inside Parliament and get panoramic city views from the Peace Tower
  • How: Book free tour tickets online (they go fast!)
  • Price: Free

🎟️ Bonus Attractions

  • Royal Canadian Mint – See how coins are made!
  • Canadian War Museum – Massive exhibits & architecture buffs will love it
  • Dows Lake – Paddle boats, kayaks, cherry blossoms in spring
  • Little Italy & Chinatown – Explore Ottawa’s vibrant food scene

✨ Local Vibes

  • Grab a Beavertail in ByWard Market
  • Watch the Rideau Locks in action
  • Try kayaking or SUP on the Ottawa River
  • Catch a sunset from Nepean Point

Want a custom itinerary for 1, 2, or 3 days in Ottawa? Or tips for visiting in winter vs summer? I’ve got you!

Absolutely! Here’s a handy Ottawa Attractions FAQ to help you plan your trip like a pro — whether you’re visiting solo, with friends, with family, or as a curious local rediscovering the city. 🇨🇦

🏙️ Best Attractions in Ottawa – FAQ

❓ What are the top must-see attractions in Ottawa?

Here are the can’t-miss highlights:

  • Parliament Hill
  • Rideau Canal (summer & winter!)
  • National Gallery of Canada
  • ByWard Market
  • Canadian Museum of Nature
  • Canadian Museum of History
  • Peace Tower
  • Major’s Hill Park
  • Royal Canadian Mint

💵 Are there free things to do in Ottawa?

Yes! Ottawa has a ton of amazing free activities:

  • Parliament Hill tours (book online)
  • Rideau Canal walks/skating
  • Major’s Hill Park
  • Explore ByWard Market
  • National Gallery – Free Thursday evenings (5–8 PM)
  • Sound & Light show on Parliament Hill (summer evenings)
  • Tulip Festival (May)

🧒 What are the best family-friendly attractions?

Top picks for kids and families:

  • Canadian Museum of Nature (dinosaurs + fun science)
  • Rideau Canal skating (in winter)
  • Canadian Children’s Museum (inside Museum of History)
  • Parliament Hill tours (older kids love the inside view!)
  • Paddleboats at Dows Lake
  • Rideau Hall grounds and gardens

🌞 When is the best time to visit Ottawa?

  • Spring (May): 🌷 Tulip Festival, mild weather
  • Summer (June–August): Outdoor patios, bike paths, festivals
  • Fall (Sept–Oct): Colorful leaves, cozy vibes
  • Winter (Dec–Feb): Skate the Rideau Canal, Winterlude Festival, hot drinks and lights

⛸️ Is the Rideau Canal always open for skating?

  • Only in winter, when the ice is thick enough (usually late Jan–mid Feb)
  • It’s the world’s longest skating rink
  • Free to skate! Rentals available on site

🕰️ How much time do I need for each attraction?

  • Parliament Hill tour: ~1 hour (book in advance)
  • National Gallery: 1.5–2.5 hours
  • Rideau Canal walk/bike: 1–2 hours or more
  • ByWard Market: 1–2 hours for strolling + snacks
  • Museum visits: 2–3 hours each

🏛️ How do I book Parliament Hill tours?

  • Free tours are available through the Government of Canada website
  • Book online in advance — especially in spring/summer

🚶‍♀️ Is Ottawa walkable?

  • Yes! The downtown core is very walkable.
  • You can easily explore Parliament Hill, ByWard Market, Rideau Canal, Major’s Hill Park and multiple museums on foot.

🧭 What neighborhoods are worth exploring?

  • ByWard Market – Shopping, patios, food
  • Downtown Core – Museums, government buildings, historic landmarks
  • Glebe – Charming cafes and shops
  • Westboro – Outdoor gear, trendy restaurants
  • Little Italy – Coffee, pasta, and Dows Lake nearby

🚲 Can I bike around Ottawa?

Absolutely! Ottawa has 600+ km of bike paths:

  • Ride along the Rideau Canal
  • Try the Ottawa River Pathway
  • Rent from shops downtown or use the city’s bike share

🌟 What local food should I try?

  • Beavertails – Fried dough with sweet toppings (must-try!)
  • Poutine – Fries, cheese curds, gravy 🇨🇦
  • Local craft beer – Many cool breweries
  • Maple treats – Taffy, cookies, or syrup everything

Want help planning a 1-day walking tour, weekend getaway, or family-friendly itinerary? Just say the word!