10 Best Things to Do in Ottawa

Looking for what to do in Ottawa? Canada’s capital blends grand architecture, national museums, waterfront scenery, historic neighbourhoods and vibrant cultural attractions. With the Rideau Canal running through the city, lively markets, scenic parks and iconic landmarks, Ottawa offers a mix of history, nature and modern urban energy. Whether you’re exploring Parliament Hill, wandering through artistic districts or enjoying outdoor experiences, Ottawa delivers a welcoming and memorable urban escape.

From famous viewpoints and political landmarks to museums, canals, markets and green spaces, here are the 10 best things to do in Ottawa to help you plan the perfect trip.

1. Visit Parliament Hill

Parliament Hill is Ottawa’s most iconic attraction and the symbolic centre of Canadian democracy. Its Gothic Revival buildings, soaring Peace Tower and sweeping views over the Ottawa River create one of the most beautiful government precincts in the world. Visitors can join guided tours that explore the House of Commons, the Senate and various ceremonial chambers, each filled with historic artwork, carvings and Canadian heritage. Even from the outside, the architecture and grounds are breathtaking, especially during sunrise and sunset.

Throughout the year, Parliament Hill hosts major events, from the famous Changing of the Guard ceremony in summer to spectacular evening sound-and-light shows that illuminate the buildings with vibrant animations. Seasonal celebrations — including Canada Day festivities, winter events and cultural performances — bring the area to life and make it a lively gathering place for locals and travellers alike.

2. Explore the Rideau Canal

The Rideau Canal is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that winds gracefully through Ottawa, offering one of the city’s most scenic and historic experiences. In warmer months, the canal is alive with cyclists, runners, kayakers and boaters enjoying the peaceful waterway and its surrounding pathways. Charming footbridges, leafy parks and canal viewpoints provide excellent stops for photos or relaxation, making it a favourite route for exploring the city on foot or by bike.

In winter, the canal transforms into the world’s largest skating rink — an iconic Canadian experience that stretches for kilometres through the heart of the city. Skaters glide past landmarks, warming up with hot chocolate and traditional treats from shoreline huts. Whether you’re visiting in summer or winter, the Rideau Canal is one of Ottawa’s most memorable and atmospheric attractions.

3. Visit the National Gallery of Canada

The National Gallery of Canada is a world-class cultural institution showcasing an extraordinary range of Canadian, Indigenous, European and contemporary art. Its striking architecture — a blend of glass, granite and dramatic angles designed by Moshe Safdie — creates a light-filled space that enhances every exhibit. Highlights include the Indigenous art galleries, European masterpieces, photography collections and landmark Canadian works that reflect the nation’s artistic evolution.

Outside the museum, the towering bronze spider sculpture “Maman” by Louise Bourgeois has become one of Ottawa’s most photographed landmarks. Inside, rotating exhibitions bring fresh perspectives throughout the year, meaning even returning visitors discover new and exciting works. The gallery is a must-see for anyone interested in culture, creativity or iconic architecture.

4. Wander through ByWard Market

ByWard Market is one of Canada’s oldest and most vibrant public markets, buzzing with activity from morning to night. During the day, visitors can browse fresh produce stands, artisanal products, gourmet foods and colourful flower stalls. Surrounding the market square are cafés, bakeries, boutiques and specialty shops that reflect Ottawa’s multicultural character and culinary diversity. The neighbourhood’s historic charm blends beautifully with its modern energy.

At night, the district transforms into a lively social hub filled with pubs, patios, restaurants and street performers. It’s one of the best places in Ottawa to sample local dishes — including the iconic BeaverTail pastry — and enjoy a fun, welcoming atmosphere. With its mix of shopping, dining and entertainment, ByWard Market captures the spirit of the city.

5. Explore the Canadian Museum of History

Located just across the river in Gatineau, the Canadian Museum of History is one of the most visited museums in the country and a masterpiece of modern architecture. Its sweeping curves and grand windows frame spectacular views of Parliament Hill, while inside, extensive exhibits tell the story of Canada from ancient Indigenous cultures to modern achievements. Visitors can explore thousands of artifacts, dioramas, multimedia displays and immersive galleries that highlight the country’s diverse heritage.

The museum’s Grand Hall — one of the most striking spaces in any Canadian museum — showcases towering totem poles, intricate carvings and dramatic coastal architecture. Temporary exhibitions also bring in world-class displays covering global cultures, making every visit enriching and visually stunning. It’s a must-see for understanding Canada’s past and present.

6. Walk around Major’s Hill Park

Major’s Hill Park is a beautifully landscaped green space offering some of the best views in Ottawa. Overlooking the Ottawa River, Parliament Hill and the Château Laurier, the park provides a peaceful retreat in the middle of the city. Visitors can wander along scenic paths, relax on the lawns, enjoy seasonal flowerbeds and discover statues and historic markers that reflect Ottawa’s past.

Its central location makes it an excellent starting point for exploring nearby attractions, including the ByTown Museum and the Rideau Canal Locks. Whether you’re enjoying a picnic, taking photos or spending a quiet moment in nature, Major’s Hill Park is a serene oasis with stunning panoramas.

7. Tour Rideau Hall

Rideau Hall — the official residence of the Governor General of Canada — is a grand estate featuring elegant rooms, ceremonial halls and beautifully curated gardens. Guided tours take visitors inside the heritage-filled interiors, where state events, formal gatherings and diplomatic ceremonies have taken place for generations. Each room contains historical artifacts, fine art and unique details that reflect Canada’s cultural story.

Outside, the expansive grounds feature walking paths, commemorative trees planted by global leaders, art installations and seasonal gardens. In winter, the estate often offers public skating rinks, while summer brings outdoor performances and family activities. Rideau Hall offers a fascinating blend of history, nature and national significance.

8. Visit the Canadian War Museum

The Canadian War Museum is a powerful and thought-provoking institution that examines Canada’s military history through immersive exhibits, personal stories, large-scale artifacts and architectural symbolism. Its striking angular design evokes the forces of conflict and peace, setting the tone for a moving journey through Canada’s role in global and domestic military events. Visitors will find tanks, aircraft, vehicles, uniforms, letters and photographs that bring history to life.

Interactive displays help visitors of all ages understand the human impact of war, while dedicated galleries honour those who served. The museum’s thoughtful layout and compelling storytelling make it one of Ottawa’s most meaningful cultural attractions, appealing to both history enthusiasts and casual visitors.

9. Explore Sparks Street

Sparks Street is one of Canada’s first pedestrian-only streets, offering a lively mix of boutiques, cafés, restaurants, public art and seasonal events. Its wide promenades make it a pleasant place for a stroll, while outdoor patios create a vibrant atmosphere in warmer months. Street performers, market vendors and pop-up festivals frequently animate the area.

Steps from Parliament Hill, Sparks Street is a convenient stop for shopping, dining or relaxing between sightseeing activities. Annual celebrations such as Ribfest, holiday markets and cultural events add to its appeal, making it a dynamic urban space year-round.

10. Enjoy Ottawa’s food & neighbourhood scene

Ottawa’s culinary scene has flourished in recent years, blending traditional Canadian flavours with international influences. Neighbourhoods like Wellington West, Hintonburg, Westboro and Elgin Street are filled with inventive restaurants, craft breweries, bakeries and trendy cafés. Visitors can enjoy everything from gourmet poutine and wood-fired pizza to ramen, Middle Eastern cuisine, French-inspired dishes and plant-based menus.

The city’s cultural diversity is reflected in its food markets, neighbourhood festivals and artisanal producers. Whether you’re sampling pastries, sipping local craft beer, enjoying riverside dining or exploring street food, Ottawa offers delicious experiences that highlight its vibrant and multicultural personality.