Ottawa: Canada’s Capital City

Welcome to Ottawa, the capital of Canada and a city that combines rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant cultural experiences. Located on the banks of the Ottawa River, this city is home to fascinating museums, the iconic Parliament Hill, and beautiful outdoor spaces. Whether you’re exploring the Rideau Canal, visiting world-class museums, or enjoying winter festivals, Ottawa offers a unique blend of Canadian heritage and modern city life.

Quick Facts About Ottawa

  • Country: Canada
  • Province: Ontario
  • Population: ~1.4 million (metro area)
  • Founded: 1826
  • Area: 1,076 square miles (2,796 km²)
  • Currency: Canadian Dollar (CAD)
  • Official Languages: English & French
  • Nicknames: “O-Town,” “The Garrison City”

Why Visit Ottawa?

Ottawa is Canada’s cultural and political heart, offering visitors a chance to explore national landmarks, experience diverse festivals, and enjoy outdoor activities year-round. With its bilingual culture, mix of historic and modern attractions, and picturesque natural surroundings, Ottawa is a must-visit destination in Canada.

Top Attractions in Ottawa

  1. Parliament Hill
    • The political heart of Canada, home to the Gothic-style Parliament buildings.
    • Tip: Visit during summer for the Changing of the Guard ceremony.
  2. Rideau Canal – UNESCO World Heritage Site
    • A historic waterway that transforms into the world’s largest skating rink in winter.
  3. ByWard Market
    • One of Canada’s oldest and largest public markets, filled with boutiques, food stalls, and cafés.
    • Tip: Try a BeaverTail, a famous Canadian pastry.
  4. Canadian Museum of History
    • Canada’s most visited museum, showcasing Indigenous culture and national history.
  5. National Gallery of Canada
    • Home to iconic Canadian and international art, including works by the Group of Seven.
  6. Canadian War Museum
    • A fascinating look into Canada’s military history, featuring tanks, planes, and war artifacts.
  7. Major’s Hill Park
    • A beautiful park offering great views of Parliament Hill and the Ottawa River.
  8. Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica
    • A stunning 19th-century church with impressive Gothic Revival architecture.
  9. Diefenbunker – Canada’s Cold War Museum
    • A unique underground nuclear bunker built during the Cold War.
  10. Gatineau Park (Day Trip)
  • A nature lover’s paradise, perfect for hiking, cycling, and cross-country skiing.

Neighborhood Highlights

  • Downtown Ottawa: Home to Parliament Hill, ByWard Market, and major museums.
  • The Glebe: A trendy neighborhood with independent shops and local markets.
  • Hintonburg: Known for its art scene, craft breweries, and hipster vibe.
  • Kanata: A tech hub with parks, shopping centers, and family-friendly attractions.
  • Gatineau (Quebec): Just across the river, featuring museums and outdoor adventure spots.

Cost of Living in Ottawa

Ottawa is more affordable than Toronto and Vancouver, but still a costly capital city.

  • Housing: Rent for a one-bedroom apartment in downtown Ottawa averages $1,800–$2,500/month.
  • Dining: Meals at mid-range restaurants cost $15–$40 per person.
  • Transport: A monthly public transit pass (OC Transpo) costs $125.

Best Time to Visit

  • Spring (April–June): Ideal for tulip season and pleasant weather.
  • Summer (July–September): Warm temperatures, outdoor festivals, and Canada Day celebrations.
  • Autumn (October–November): Stunning fall foliage in Gatineau Park.
  • Winter (December–March): Perfect for Winterlude Festival and skating on the Rideau Canal.

Cuisine to Try

  • BeaverTails: A fried dough pastry topped with cinnamon sugar.
  • Poutine: A Canadian classic—fries topped with cheese curds and gravy.
  • Tourtière: A traditional French-Canadian meat pie.
  • Maple Syrup Treats: Try maple taffy on snow during winter.
  • Ottawa Shawarma: The city is known for its Lebanese-style shawarma.

Transportation in Ottawa

  • OC Transpo (Buses & Light Rail – O-Train): The main public transit system.
  • Taxis & Ride-Sharing (Uber/Lyft): Convenient but can be pricey.
  • Biking & Walking: Ottawa has great bike paths along the Rideau Canal.
  • Car Rentals: Recommended for trips to Gatineau Park or Mont-Tremblant.

Fun Facts About Ottawa

  1. Ottawa is the coldest capital city in the world, with winter temperatures dropping below -30°C (-22°F).
  2. The Rideau Canal becomes the world’s longest ice-skating rink every winter (7.8 km long).
  3. The Parliament Buildings are haunted, with legends of ghost sightings.
  4. Ottawa was chosen as Canada’s capital by Queen Victoria in 1857.
  5. The city has the highest number of engineers per capita in North America, due to its tech industry.

Travel Tips for Visitors

  • Pack for the weather—Ottawa has extreme seasons.
  • Book Parliament tours in advance—they fill up quickly.
  • Visit museums early to avoid crowds.
  • Take a boat cruise on the Ottawa River for scenic city views.
  • Try the local craft beers—Ottawa has a great brewery scene.

Plan Your Visit to Ottawa

Ottawa is a city that celebrates Canada’s heritage while embracing modern innovations. Whether you’re exploring its historic landmarks, indulging in world-class cuisine, or enjoying outdoor activities, Ottawa offers a unique and welcoming experience for all visitors.