Canada’s capital city of Ottawa can often be overlooked when visiting the country. Most travellers set their sights on Toronto, Montreal, Quebec City or Vancouver; however it really is a great destination. It’s walkable and picturesque, with the Gothic-style Parliament Buildings dominating the skyline. Not to mention, its chock full of cultural and historic attractions.
A 4.5 hour drive from Toronto, this makes for a great weekend getaway. To make the most of your 48 hours in this vibrant city, I have some suggestions to share. Here are the 10 best things to do in Ottawa over a weekend.
24 Comments
samantha karen
I studied for four years in Ottawa for my bachelor’s degree and loved living in Ottawa for that time! This post covers some of my favourite things to do in the city – especially roaming the byward market, so many memories.
The.Holidaymaker
Thanks Sam for your comment. I did the same, just maybe different decades!
Rob + Ann @TravelLatte
We have to admit, we would have fallen into the category of people visiting Vancouver or Montreal, and skipping right past Ottawa. But now, we want to head right to the Capital and spend some time getting to know this beautiful city! That architecture – wow! Yep, we’re sold. Hopefully, Ottawa, we’ll see you soon! 🙂
The.Holidaymaker
Thanks for your comment! I so glad you have been convinced to go! It really is a fantastic city!
Linda (LD Holland)
I used to live in Ottawa and we have been back to visit several times. We always seem to find something new to see and do. We loved renting bikes to explore the Rideau Canal. And of course, skating when it was frozen in the winter. I would love to stay at the Chateau Laurier one day. I am sure the inside is beautiful. Love the idea of catching a sunset from the water. Must be time for us to head back for another visit.
The.Holidaymaker
I used to live there too! Thanks Linda for your comment. You are right there is something always new to explore.
Brooklyn
I went to the University of Ottawa, and agree with all of these suggestions! I miss the liveliness of the Byward Market, and the beauty of the Rideau Canal ♡
The.Holidaymaker
I went to the rival university!!!! No matter how much time passes, when I return it’s like going home.
Riana Ang-Canning
Oh wow, you are making the Ottawa of my childhood look so much cooler than I remember! I grew up in Toronto and visited Ottawa a few times with school – I remember loving the Aviation Museum. And, of course, getting a beaver tail! I’ve also skated on the Rideau Canal a few times and it’s awesome. But I totally don’t remember all the beautiful architecture – gotta get back for another visit!
The.Holidaymaker
Yes Riana, Ottawa has evolved, and it’s amazing how our perspectives change as we age. It’s such a great city- full of young people, so it has a certain vibe and energy to it. Time for a revisit!
Emma
I was surprised at how much I enjoyed Ottawa. I thought it might be just another capital but it had charm. I stayed at the Fairmont so had the wonderful canal views from my room and it was fabulous. I even walked over the river to Quebec which was cool. I’d love to go back and check out some other things on your list though. I just enjoyed exploring and walking around
The.Holidaymaker
Thank you for your comment Emma. I’m glad you enjoyed the city as much as I do.
Indrani
The Parliament building has an amazing facade and architecture. Really keen to see the Senate, the House of Commons there. Stroll through Elgin Street and by Rideau Canal sounds like a great experience. Yet another must see for me would be Louise Bourgeois’s bronze spider sculpture. Hope I can get there some day.
The.Holidaymaker
Thank you for your comment Indrani! It sounds like this city appeals to you! How fantastic! Hopefully you will get to see it one day.
Gus Feliciano
Have to say Ottawa was definitely not on my list of places to visit in Canada but I think you changed my mind!
I love history and those Parliament buildings look amazing!
The.Holidaymaker
I am so glad it inspired you to consider this city Gus! Thanks for your comment!
Umiko
You got me with the canal. I imagine people kayaking in the summer and ice skating along it in the winter. It will be a beautiful sight to watch and record through the lenses. And of course the giant spider. I wanted to go there since the first time I saw a picture of it.
The.Holidaymaker
Thank you for your kind comment. Glad it inspired you. Hopefully you will be able to visit one day.
Kevin
Very cool post! You are right, most travelers do overlook Ottawa, but lesser-known capital cities always intrigue me (others that come to mind include Canberra and Brasilia). It’s good to know that Ottawa can be seen in just a weekend, and I absolutely love the parliament building. The architecture is so different from what you’d see on Capitol Hill in the US!
The.Holidaymaker
Thank you Kevin for stopping by and commenting. It sounds like this city has piqued your interest, now I only hope you might be able to visit it one day!
Sarah
Ottowa looks fantastic! Looks like I’d need to visit for quite a few days in order to visit all those sunset spots!
I also want to visit the Scone Witch because that’s a fantastic name and I adore scones.
The.Holidaymaker
Thanks Sarah for your comment. You won’t be disappointed if you were to visit this great city.
Danik the Explorer
I was only in Ottawa for one day and one night and looks like I actually missed out on a lot. All I remember from my trip (10 years ago now…where has the time gone?) was walking around the grounds of the Parliament (and seeing an amazing light show on the building….it was during the summer) and going into a McDonalds. I remember seeing a river but that was all. I think the next time I am in ON I need to spend a little bit more time here.
The.Holidaymaker
Yes, you definitely need to! Especially as you love to travel in Canada, spending time in the nation’s capital is a must! Thanks for stopping by Danik.