Things to do in Ottawa

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Major\'s Hill Park which includes snow and a church or cathedral
Voyageur Provincial Park which includes general coastal views
Ottawa featuring heritage elements and interior views
Ottawa featuring ice skating, a bridge and snow
Rideau Canal showing a bridge, a river or creek and a city

Ottawa Attractions

Ottawa is the capital of Canada and is located on the map of eastern Ontario near the Quebec border, and it was formerly known as Bytown named after its founder Colonel John By in 1826. The name was changed to Ottawa in 1855, and now in addition to being the center of the Canadian government, it also is a tourist hub you can visit any time of the year and expect to find entertainment and relaxing spots to spend your time. Among fun things to do in Ottawa, the following places are by far the best to visit when you travel here.

One must see attraction in Ottawa is the Canadian Museum of Civilization, a museum that takes you way back in history to the early days of the native people who inhabited the country before the Europeans came, through to the the French settler periods, and all the way to the time in which Canada became a nation. From artifacts and profiles of famous Canadian founders to even a children's museum section, these features make this place a top location for Ottawa excursions.

There are many local festivals taking place throughout the year you may add to the list of Ottawa activities such as the Festival of India, the Nevan Fair, the Carp Fair, and the Ottawa Egyptian Festival. These festivals are great for the family to enjoy together, while kids also get a chance to dress up in costumes and participate in other activities to give them an insight to different cultures.

Among other attractions in Ottawa is the Fitzroy Provincial Park, a place where you can go to enjoy the Canadian outdoors and view wildlife on the Ottawa River. The park also hosts outdoor concerts sometimes where you can add the tune of music to the sights and sounds of your visit.

Other Ottawa tours are available from Expedia, so use our packages to discover Canada's capital and see how you can plan for your trip there. With lots to do and more to see, Expedia.com is your ticket for traveling to Ottawa.


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What to do in Ottawa

Free Things to Do in Ottawa

There's no need to max out your credit card in Ottawa. The following won't cost a penny.

Nepean Museum - Packed with artifacts and displays, this place is heaven for inquiring minds.

Le Cordon Bleu Ottawa Culinary Arts Institute - When you want to get cultured, stop here and enjoy the artistic creativity on display.

Ottawa River Parkway - Make this place your first stop for a dash of fun during your time away.

Ottawa City Hall - Take in the design and originality of this impressive example of modernistic architecture.

Supreme Court of Canada - If you're interested in bygone times, this is one attraction you really shouldn't miss.

Confederation Square - Amble along the streets and enjoy the atmosphere of this favorite area.

Victoria Island - Get out of life's fast lane and spend some time out close to the water.

Library and Archives Canada - Leave time to have a look at this site of local importance.

St Andrew's Church - Enjoy some quiet reflection and learn a thing or two about this site's spiritual importance.

Chocolate Cove - Dive into your favorite magazine or listen to a popular playlist while getting some sun.

Commissioners Park - Contemplate the stark contrast between urban life and nature's wonders at this special location.

Confederation Park - Grab your blanket, pack some finger food and find a cozy area to be with nature.

Things to Do in Ottawa with Kids

There are plenty of enjoyable things to do in Ottawa with the young ones. Keep everyone happy with these family friendly experiences:


 

Looking for sports, concerts, or theater events in Ottawa? Search event tickets to see what's happening today, or to plan what to do this weekend!

 


 


Discover the most popular places to visit in Ottawa

Discover the most popular landmarks and neighborhoods in Ottawa

Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica showing a city, a church or cathedral and religious elements

Downtown Ottawa

4.5/5(617 area reviews)

Central to Ottawa's financial district and government buildings, this area boasts a vibrant restaurant district on Elgin Street and shopping on Bank Street. Explore heritage sites like Château Laurier and Sparks Street's pedestrian mall.

Downtown Ottawa
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Kanata

Suburb within Ottawa, Kanata boasts the Canadian Tire Centre, home to the Ottawa Senators, and the Kanata Research Park. Enjoy shopping at Kanata Centrum, Tanger Outlet Mall, and Hazeldean Mall, or catch a movie at Landmark Cinemas Kanata 24.

Kanata
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Nepean

Explore the retail center on Merivale Road, featuring smaller shops and big box stores, or visit the Nepean Museum and Ben Franklin Place for a mix of culture and government services. Enjoy amenities like the Ottawa Public Library and Centrepointe Theatre.

Nepean
Ottawa featuring snow

Centretown

4.5/5(135 area reviews)

Known for its ample dining options and fascinating museums, there's plenty to explore in Centretown. You can visit top attractions like Elgin Street and Canadian Museum of Nature, and jump on the metro at Parliament Station or Lyon Station to see more of the city.

Centretown
Byward Market featuring markets, outdoor eating and street scenes

ByWard Market

This downtown Ottawa's lively retail and entertainment district boasts a dense concentration of eateries, bars, and nightclubs, as well as an open-air market for fresh produce and flowers during warmer months. Cobblestone courtyards, historic buildings, and street entertainment add to the charm.

ByWard Market
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Orleans

Situated 16 km from downtown Ottawa, Orléans boasts a significant francophone population and offers recreational activities at Bob MacQuarrie Recreation Complex and Petrie Island's natural beach. Explore nature trails like Bilberry Creek Trail and enjoy shopping and dining along Innes Road.

Orleans

 

Looking for fun things to do nearby? Check things to do near me to find and book the best things to do, fun activities, and top attractions wherever you happen to be.

 


 

Popular day trips from Ottawa

Frequently asked questions

Is Ottawa worth visiting?
With a blend of culture and history, there's no shortage of things to do in Ottawa. When you're here, head to Canadian Museum of History, a major attraction in the area.
How do I spend a day in Ottawa?
Canadian Museum of History and Canada Aviation and Space Museum are two awesome places to start your adventures. Remember to check out the retail and dining options in Ottawa while you're here too.
What is the top tourist attraction in Ottawa?
You can't go home without visiting Canadian Museum of History, rated the top tourist attraction in Ottawa.
Is three days enough to stay in Ottawa?
You can easily visit leading sights like Canadian Museum of History, Canada Aviation and Space Museum and Canadian Museum of Nature with a three-day stay in Ottawa. On average, most travelers book two days here. There's plenty to discover nearby too, so linger longer and check out Gatineau.
Is Ottawa a walkable city?
Some top sights in Ottawa, such as Canadian Museum of History and Canadian Museum of Nature, are within walking distance. You can also enjoy several of the city's neighborhoods on foot. Only 1 mile from central Ottawa is Downtown Ottawa and Byward Market - Parliament Hill is 0.6 miles away.
What are some activities to do in Ottawa with kids?
If you're looking for tours and attractions for all of your group, here are some fantastic ideas for what to do in Ottawa with kids.

What to do in Ottawa for adults?
There are lots of things to do in Ottawa, with entertainment for adults of all ages. Cap off your day with a visit to Funhaven Entertainment Centre or Parliament Hill.
Are there free things to do in Ottawa?
In Ottawa, Major's Hill Park is an unmissable spot for anyone wanting to experience the city without opening their wallet. Also, check out the green spaces and other neighborhoods, and ask for ideas from a local tour guide. It's an easy way to discover the best free things to do in Ottawa.