City: Ottawa
Top Things to do in Ottawa
Top Restaurants in Ottawa
Top 10 Budget-friendly Things to do in Ottawa, Canada
Canada's capital is a compact, clean, cleverly planned center of culture and politics and a destination for every season. Start downtown at the architecturally stunning National Gallery of Canada, and don't miss the Canadian Museum of Nature and the Canada Aviation and Space Museum. Rideau Canal offers boating in the summer and turns into the world’s largest skating rink when frozen in the winter. Gatineau Park attracts cyclists and walkers, while Byward Market blends old and new Ottawa.
Restaurants in Ottawa
1. Stray Dog Brewing Company
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 30 reviews
Orléans' first ever microbrewery, the Stray Dog Brewing Company is more than just beer; we represent the spirit of adventure and the courage to pursue the passions that enrich our lives. Come into our taproom and enjoy great award-winning craft beer. While we don't have food on-site, we encourage you to bring in your favourite meal, or if you are new to the area, let us recommend one of our local picks. Use our Skip the Dishes app or use your own! We are also a recognized dog-friendly business, so feel free to bring your furry friend with you. All dogs must be leashed at all times for the safety and enjoyment of our fellow customers and other dogs. Whether it's an intimate concert, comedy show, private event or just an excuse to hang with friends, we've got your good vibes covered.
Reviewed By rfitzgerald59 - Ottawa, Canada
I believe the only Orleans brewery, which is heads and tails above others. Avery successful business with incredible beers, absolutely worth a visit. I will visit again.
2. Humanics Sanctuary & Sculpture Park
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 46 reviews
Come and experience this hidden jewel just outside Cumberland Village in Ottawa. Discover sculptures carefully placed in a natural setting at this nine-acre wooded ravine with walking trails and quaint bridges over a meandering creek. The Humanics sanctuary and sculpture park is a unique multi-cultural, multi-religious and multi-generational Canadian Institution focused on promoting principles of non-violence, human development, justice and peace. Free Parking! Entrance Fees (cash only) Adults: $7.50 Students/Seniors: $5.00 Children under 12: Free Family Pass (2 adults & students under 18): $20.00 Associate Membership (Annual pass, unlimited visits): $25.00
Reviewed By melnor88 - Orillia, Canada
After my first visit earlier this summer, I bought a membership because I knew I'd be back! As I took my first steps down the beginning of the trail, I was overcome with a feeling of wonderment that I haven't had in years. It is truly breath-taking to see not just the intricate and ornate sculptures, but the profound love and immense dedication that has gone into planning and building this sanctuary. The natural surroundings are left mostly intact which adds to the whimsy and splendor of each sculpture, and the first time I went, it was fascinating to turn around each bend in the path to find the next work of art. The grounds are also worth exploring beyond just the area that includes the sculptures; there are beautiful garden areas and mixed media sculptures. A community garden yields lovely organic produce that you can usually purchase (by donation) at the check in booth each visit. Their tomatoes and Swiss chard are so flavorful! There is ample free parking on site and an outdoor washroom area. Bonus points; they are welcoming to fur babies! It's worth it to buy a membership to support their cause and because you will certainly want to visit again.
3. Rideau Canal National Historic Site
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 5,259 reviews
One of the oldest landmarks in Ottawa, this canal is filled with boats in the summer and becomes the "World's Longest Skating Rink" in the winter.
Reviewed By kailenav - Vancouver Island, Canada
The canal is definitely a must see when you visit Ottawa. Best time to enjoy would be may - September when the canal is filled and boat tours are open, as well as in February during Winterlude. You can skate the entire canal weather permitting. If you are a cyclist, runner, or have a dog, there are lovely paths on either side of the canal that you can travel along. Even driving next to it - it’s so beautiful.
4. National Gallery of Canada
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 3,055 reviews
The National Gallery of Canada is committed to offering a welcoming and safe place for our visitors, employees and volunteers. To that end, in response to the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, we have CLOSED the Gallery and cancelled all events and activities until further notice. Founded in 1880, the National Gallery of Canada (Musee des beaux-arts du Canada) holds in trust a collection of European and Canadian paintings, sculptures, prints, drawings and photos.
Reviewed By whereverman - Hong Kong, China
A national treasure and my favourite spot in Ottawa. The gallery has a wonderful collection of Canadian and Modern Art. The building itself is a work of art with enormous glass ceilings and sunny courtyards between exhibits.
5. Royal Canadian Mint
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 1,162 reviews
Producing coins since 1908, this excellent collecting resource features gold, silver and platinum coins commemorating Canada's heritage.
Reviewed By 650StacyM - Kernersville, United States
This wasn't on my radar to see but came highly recommended by a friend. It didn't disappoint. I was early and was the only person on the tour. My guide was very knowledgeable and patient with all my questions. It was exciting to see the gold and silver rolls. It also helped getting to see the equipment and workers in action as my guide was explaining the process. The tour was the perfect length for learning about the operation and history as well as being able to see the process. I loved learning the trivia regarding the direction of the profiles on their currency. Especially interesting was the story behind the 2010 Olympic medals all forming a puzzle when they are all put together. The gift shop offers some unique gift options as the commemorative coins cover a lot of different interests and subjects. Don't miss getting to pick up the solid gold bar, which feels much heavier than 28 pounds. Go during the week so you can see the place in action. I don't think it would've been quite as impactful without that. It was fun, interesting and a wonderful surprise all around.
6. Rideau Hall
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 609 reviews
Rideau Hall is the official residence and workplace of every governor general since 1867. This national historic site, situated in an idyllic 79-acre urban oasis, is located only a few minutes from downtown Ottawa and Gatineau.
Reviewed By H317SFjasonr - Kitchener, Canada
Great tour with Rebecca, shared lot’s of great information about the history of the Hall, history of our Governor Generals, and honours/awards celebrated at this historic sight for Canadians.
7. Canadian War Museum
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 4,545 reviews
The Canadian War Museum is more than a museum that is internationally renowned for its symbolic architecture; it is synonym for inspiring and touching stories. Canada's rich military history is showcased through personal stories, artwork, photographs and interactive presentations. Tour the extensive permanent exhibitions and expand your knowledge of the conflicts that shaped Canada, Canadians and the world, as well as the roll Canadians played in them.
Reviewed By Expedition211142 - Victoria, Canada
I spent the better part of 4 hours here visiting the numerous rooms depicting Canada's Military History, watching several short videos, and looking at the 3 dozen or so collection on military vehicles and weapons. This is a must see place in Ottawa when you are there. There is also a nice gift shop for souvenirs.
8. Parliament Hill and Buildings
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 9,514 reviews
Three Gothic Revival-style buildings, located on a 170-foot bluff overlooking the Ottawa River, house the offices of the members of Parliament, the House of Commons and the Senate. Free guided tours delve into Canadian history and explain the workings of the political system.
Reviewed By ephesians5 - Toronto, Canada
There is much to see inside and around Parliament Hill, especially during summer time. At 10:00 am is the Change of the GuardsCeremony. There are free tours for the Parliament building (Centre Block and East block tours), which require to line up fro tickets for a set time. The Parliament Hill building is Gothic Revival housing a beautiful library at the back of the building. This is the only room that survived the Parliament fire. The surrounding area around the Parliament Hill Buildings have many statues and offers a beautiful view of Ottawa National Gallery, the Cathedral, and the Canada Museum of History across the river, to mention a few sights. Ottawa is very green, clean and easy to walk. In the evening, the Northern Lights- Sound and Light Show presents the narrated Canadian History in English and French, projecting the lights and images on to the Parliament building. It was preceded by fireworks. The show was spectacular, very high quality images, well told history at a good pace. It was quite emotional at the end when people stands and sing the national anthem! This show will end on Labour Day. Bring a blanket or portable chair. There is free parking at Metcalfe street and Albert Street on the weekends, but it fills quickly, especially for the evening light show. A good paid parking is at the National Arts Centre.
9. Hog's Back Falls
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 468 reviews
Beautiful 60-foot waterfall where the Rideau River and Rideau Canal part.
Reviewed By T6002SQsarahw - Ottawa, Canada
Located right across the road from Mooney's Bay, Hog's Back Falls are a wonderful place to visit no matter the season. They are even more impressive in the spring when the water levels are higher. The formation is unique and in summer/fall/winter you can clearly see the rock that gives the falls their name. It's harder to spot in the spring due to the high water levels. There are paved walking trails on on the parking lot side of the falls and there's a shorter, paved path to an observation area on the other side. A wide pedestrian bridge allows visitors to cross safely over the falls. There is also a paved path that goes under the road and allows you to connect to Mooney's Bay beach. The Rideau Canal is also nearby, just on the other side of the river. The park at the falls is small but well kept with many mature trees. Washroom facilities are available in the summer months and I think there's a canteen as well. Hog's Back Falls are just one of Ottawa's many examples of spectacular nature nestled in the middle of an urban area.
10. Major's Hill Park
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 350 reviews
This pretty park is located near several museums, churches and the Ottawa River.
Reviewed By FarAway752596
Amazing park very well maintained, with beautiful views to the river, islands, bridges and a very nice tavern. A space just to relax, walk, take pictures and enjoy!
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