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Ottawa

A capital of staggering charm and beauty, Ottawa is famed for its winter wonderland energy, its impressive architecture, world-class museums, and its thousands of green spaces scattered across the city and the sweeping Ottawa River. Home to the famous annual Winterlude Festival with its impressive ice sculptures, winters in Ottawa are a dream. Skating along the Rideau Canal beneath the spiers of the city, snacking on deep-fried beaver tails, and cross-country skiing around the greenbelt area are all impressive ways to indulge in snowy days. Yet, Ottawa thrives in all seasons with the warmer months bringing floral blooms to the parliament buildings and parks and plenty of festivals and cultural events to celebrate the season.

Getting Around Ottawa

Well connected to the rest of the world, getting to Ottawa should be easy with many big-name airlines flying there. Once you touch down in the Canadian capital, maneuvering your way to all the tourist sites shouldn't be a challenge as the city is set up with plentiful transport options. From light rail trains to streets full of taxis, bicycle shares, and more. The downtown area is also easy to walk around thanks to its small size, flat terrain, and endless acres of green space.

Canadian Cultural Cool

A glut of culture makes Ottawa a fascinating city come rain, snow, or shine. With its effigy of museums, glorious galleries, and impressive architectural feats, you can always find something to enrich your mind in this city. From the gothic sandstone style of Parliament Hill to the National Gallery of Canada, the Museum of Nature, and the Notre Dame Cathedral with its breathtaking basilica, you can cherry-pick la creme de la creme of cultural delights. Those who want to experience a darker and more nuanced side of the city may also delight in the after-hours ghost walks. Ottawa is also all about festive fun with a full calendar of events taking place throughout the year - from the tulip festival in bloom to fringe festivals, the striking Dragon Boat Festival, Bluefest, and of course the star of the show - Winterlude,

Canadian Cultural Cool

A glut of culture makes Ottawa a fascinating city come rain, snow, or shine. With its effigy of museums, glorious galleries, and impressive architectural feats, you can always find something to enrich your mind in this city. From the gothic sandstone style of Parliament Hill to the National Gallery of Canada, the Museum of Nature, and the Notre Dame Cathedral with its breathtaking basilica, you can cherry-pick la creme de la creme of cultural delights. Those who want to experience a darker and more nuanced side of the city may also delight in the after-hours ghost walks. Ottawa is also all about festive fun with a full calendar of events taking place throughout the year - from the tulip festival in bloom to fringe festivals, the striking Dragon Boat Festival, Bluefest, and of course the star of the show - Winterlude,

Must See Attractions

Ottawa doesn't fall short when it comes to things to do. This city boasts a great blend of outdoor pursuits, cultural charm, elegant and easygoing dining, and savvy shopping experiences. Whether you are into art or architecture, history, or indulging in fine festivities, Canada's capital has that lavish and local feel. Ottawa wants to be known for its culinary experience (there are three 4 Diamond restaurants). Ottawa is a city home to various different urban and nightlife styles, as well as an outdoorsy lifestyle. Being located within walking distance of the gorgeous Gatineau also means guests can soak up two sides of city life and all the top-rated wonders of the french speaking city across the river.

Parliament Hill

The parliament buildings are iconic and ever linked with the aesthetic of Ottawa. Anyone visiting the capital should be sure to climb up Parliament Hill and admire these golden gothic structures standing proud above the city and boasting views that stretch across the river. Visit the Parliamentary Library and catch the changing of the guards. Those who want a more in-depth experience can also opt for one of the free tours around the buildings. Enthusiasts can also take a tour of the Senate for a fascinating insight into Canadian politics.

Curtain Channel

Skating along the Rideau Canal should be on everyone's winter bucket list. Stretching on for almost eight kilometres, the Rideau canal is a hallmark of the city and has even earned its accolades as a UNESCO world heritage site. In the summer months, people can be found picnicking, strolling, kayaking, and cycling to their heart's delight, whereas in the winter ice skating becomes one of the most popular ways to commute to work.

ByWard Market

Foodies will fall in love with feasting and fun at the Byward Market. Stretching out across four different blocks, the area is crammed with beautiful and interesting boutiques, good grub, and a great array of restaurants. The area is also flush with cobblestone squares flanked by eateries making it a dreamy place to dine for those who are wondering what to eat and what to drink while in Ottawa. With the river and canal close by, it's also well-positioned for a post-lunch boat tour along the banks.

The National Gallery

Prisms of glistening glass designed by Moshe Safdie make up the mise-en-scene of the National Gallery. A fine place for artistic adventures, this gallery houses an impressive collection that covers everything from aboriginal art to religious art, European masters, impressionists, the group of seven, and so much more - it's no surprise that The National Gallery hosts one of the largest collections in North America.

The National Arts Center

Celebrating the world as a stage, the National Arts Center is a great attraction for those interested in theater, concerts, and all kinds of performances. Occupying prime real estate on the Rideau Canal, this is one of the best places to see big-name touring artists, broadway plays, world-class ballet, and more. With its creative roster it also makes plenty of space on the calendar for talks, workshops, and more.

Questions About Your Trip to Ottawa