Image by Jacques Savoye from Pixabay
Canada’s capital city is one of the most tourist-friendly in the world. Its small-town feel is far cry from the cramped conditions we see in other cities, thanks to its green spaces, distinctive shops, and the wide expanse of the beautiful Ottawa River. But don’t let this fool you – Ottawa isn’t a sleepy place, and any tourist here will be spoilt for choice when it comes to things to see and do.
It doesn’t matter if you’re a first-time backpacker who wants to know everything from the best time to take the Metro to whether or not an attraction accepts payments with EntroPay, or an experienced traveller who prefers to follow your nose once you arrive – if you’re looking to delve into the city’s bureaucratic history, admire its seasonal greenery, or simply sample its wealth of local beer, Ottawa has plenty to offer. This article will guide you through some of the best attractions, activities and sites you should definitely add to your list if you’re planning a visit to Ottawa soon.
Parliament Hill
Known to Ottawa locals as The Hill, Parliament Hill is one of the most iconic places in the city. Located in downtown Ottawa, this suite of Gothic buildings has housed the Parliament of Canada ever since 1859, when Queen Victoria decided that Ottawa would be the capital of (what was then) the Province of Canada. It’s not just Canada’s parliamentary heart, however – it’s also a major tourist attraction, with free tours, events, and even yoga classes available throughout the year!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7s37OuqYNGw
Lusk Cave Trail
Not far from Parliament Hill in downtown Ottawa is an attraction you probably wouldn’t expect to find in most cities – an underground marble cave trail. Open to tourists from the middle of May to late October, Lusk Cave was formed approximately 12,500 years ago. It may not be everyone’s idea of fun, thanks to its deep water that can easily reach mid-thigh level at the end of the cave, but if you’re looking for a unique experience that will enable you to see the city from beneath, the Lusk cave trail is unmissable.
The World’s Largest Escape Room
Escape rooms have quickly become one of the most popular tourist attractions all over the globe, with everyone from pre-teens to employees at office parties enjoying the tense new form of entertainment. If you’re a fan too, then the escape room at the Diefenbunker Museum in Ottawa – which is named after the Prime Minister John Diefenbaker – is an absolute must-see, as it’s the largest example of its kind in the world. The site itself was built in preparation of a nuclear attack in the Cold War, and the escape room will see you attempt to find your way out of the labyrinthine bunker before the clock runs out.
Rideau Hall
Rideau Hall is the official residence of the Right Honourable Julie Payette, Canada’s 29th governor general. Located on the beautiful Sussex Drive, this is an excellent attraction if you’re looking to save some money – tours of the gorgeous state rooms and their range of contemporary exhibitions are, amazingly, free! Make sure you plan ahead, though – the website suggests your reserve your visit at least 48 hours before you plan to come.
