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Alexandra Bridge

Although buzzing with cars today (and the wheels do actually create a strange buzzing sound as they travel from Ottawa to Hull), this bridge once carried trains between Ontario and Quebec as well. There is a generous wooden-planked footpath across the bridge. Take the time to stroll or cycle between Ottawa and the Museum of Civilization in Hull. The bridge is well lit at night by an illuminated Parliament Hill. More »

Astrolabe Gallery

Paired with Patrick McGahern Antiquarian Books, this gallery is awash with historical works of art. Victorian watercolours, antique maps, ancient prints and a multitude of first edition books are available for the ardent collector of intellectual beauty. Special "views of Ottawa" prints make excellent souvenirs for those who fall in love with the beautiful city. Upon purchase of a print, there is no fear of damaging it because it can be framed at the rear of the store. Paper restoration services are also available. More »

Brébeuf Park

Nestled along the Ottawa River in Gatineau, this park is special because of its historical significance. The great explorers and voyageurs of Canada used the Ottawa River as a gateway to the interior and the west. John Franklin, David Thompson, Alexander Mackenzie, and Simon Fraser all would have paddled into or out of the site of this park. Just four kilometers past the Canadian Museum of Civilization, the park is not difficult to find. Follow Laurier Street and Taché Boulevard west. Turn left onto Bégin Street, which leads right to the river's edge. More »

ByWard Market

The ByWard shopping district spans about 12 square blocks from George Street North to St Patrick and Sussex East to Cumberland. Home to trendy boutiques ranging from designer fashion to jewelery to artwork, the Market also features a variety of enjoyable restaurants. At night, the Market area is a bustling hot spot with bar hoppers. Fresh produce and arts and craft vendors can be found seven days a week. More »

Canada Agriculture Museum

You'll be surprised to find a fully functioning farm in the middle of the city! Located in the heart of the Central Experimental Farm, the museum pays tribute to traditional and modern farming practices in Canada. "Living displays" at hand include a herd of dairy cattle, as well as a variety of sheep, horses and other animals. More »

Canada Aviation Museum

Come see one of the finest collections of vintage aircraft in the world. Creative exhibitions and programs in this delta-shaped building make learning about aviation fun. Experience hang gliding on a simulator, sit at the controls of a Cessna, watch films of aircraft in action, tackle the helicopter studio or test your skills at video games and computer quizzes. You can even soar over Ottawa in a historical aircraft—for a small fee. The museum is located along the Eastern Parkway near Rockcliffe. More »

Canada Science and Technology Museum

A fun and educational way to learn the history of Canada--how the country has scientifically and technologically progressed over the centuries--is to visit the Canada Science and Technology Museum. Here, you and your kids can push, pull, tug, and blast off throughout the exhibits, in hopes of engaging and inspiring the young ones to get involved with the future of Canada's science and technology programs. There are several exhibits to explore, both permanent and rotating, so plan on spending a few hours here. As the largest museum of it's kind in all of Canada, this place has something that will intrigue and entertain everyone in your group. More »

Canadian Children's Museum

Visitors to this one-of-a-kind museum are given passports, which they can stamp as they go on an interactive tour through a series of exhibits representing different regions of the world. Activities include playing African musical instruments, decoding hieroglyphics in a miniature pyramid, shopping in an international marketplace and constructing a Balinese shadow puppet. Admission is for the Museum of Civilization, which includes the Children's Museum. More »

Canadian Museum of Civilization

Located on the shore of the Ottawa River, across from Parliament Hill, the Museum of Civilization opened to rave reviews in 1989 and is home to over 3.5 million artifacts and exhibits of national historical and cultural importance. The museum is also home to the interactive Canadian Children's Museum. Several IMAX features are available. More »

Canadian Museum of Contemporary Photography

This museum, located just north of Confederation Square and nestled between the Chateau Laurier Hotel and the Rideau Canal, has been showcasing the works of talented Canadian photographers since 1992. The building was once part of a tunnel that connected the hotel with an old railway station that is now the Government Conference Centre. Exhibitions at the museum are constantly evolving and changing. For photography buffs, the bookstore is a must. More »

Canadian Museum of Nature

A walk through this heritage building, which chronicles Canada's natural history, will take you back in time to when dinosaurs roamed the landscape and glaciers covered 80 per cent of the country's landmass. Exhibits examine the country's biodiversity, the history of Canada's aboriginal peoples and life in the far north. Check website or call for admission fees and special deals. More »

Canadian Postal Museum

Founded originally as the National Postal Museum, the Canadian Postal Museum (CPM) joined the Canadian Museum of Civilization in 1988 and became one of the foremost museums about stamps and postal systems anywhere in the world. With over 49,000 objects and 249,000 philatelic artifacts in its collection, the Canadian Postal Museum operates a complete museum program and "acts as a repository to hold objects in trust for the Canadian public."

Museum patrons can engage in exhibits ranging from ancient Egyptian hieroglyphic messages to old-fashioned mailboxes and stamps from around the world, while interactive exhibits help users understand how postal systems have been vital in the development of human civilization by helping people communicate and learn from each other. More »

Canadian Tribute to Human Rights

Unveiled by the Dalai Lama in 1990, this monument to human rights leaves a strong impression with both its message and design. The red granite and grey concrete of the 10-metre-high monument carries the words "equality," "dignity" and "rights" in 68 of Canada's First Nations languages. Walk through the tribute along a "symbolic procession," starting under the massive plaque inscribed with the first words of the Declaration of Human Rights: "All human beings are born free and equal in dignity and rights." More »

Canadian War Museum

This museum was established to commemorate the men and women of Canada's armed forces. The museum's mandate is to advance the study of Canada's military history, including the effects of war and conflict on the nation and its citizens. Within its walls are a number of artifacts and exhibits portraying Canada's military history from its earliest days along with Vimy House, the Museum's collections and research facility. More »

Capital Music Hall

Watching a musical event at Capital Music Hall is a unique experience. This large venue, which offers only standing room, can accomodate up to 650 people. Established in 2003, it has hosted some of Canada's best artists, among them Sam Roberts, Swollen Members, and Great Big Sea. You must be 19 years old to be able to watch a musical act here. It is also equipped with a bar and a dance floor. More »

Casino du Lac-Leamy

An impressive fountain shoots water high into the air in front of this sprawling building. The atmosphere inside is energized with crowds of people trying their luck at rows upon rows of slot machines, roulette and keno tables, blackjack and other games. The casino boasts quality live entertainment and a variety of restaurants to suit your needs. There is a fine dining gourmet restaurant and a seafood restaurant as well as a snack shop and numerous bars. You can spend your winnings at the gift shop or boutique. More »

Central Experimental Farm

This 500-hectare working farm is hard to miss, as it is situated in the center of the nation's capital. The unique farming laboratory boasts a crew of scientists who give farmers and food manufacturers across the country useful information. The federal government runs the research station, and it's free to walk around the extensive grounds and view the variety of animals. Pop by the interesting Canada Agriculture Museum and tropical greenhouse located on the grounds. More »

Confederation Square

Confederation Square is actually a triangle. At the heart of the square is Canada's National War Memorial. Immediately to the east of the square is the National Arts Centre. Immediately northwest is Parliament Hill. Further north and to the right is Rideau Street and the Rideau Centre, while across Wellington Street is the Chateau Laurier Hotel and the Canadian Museum of Contemporary Photography. To the west of the memorial is the Sparks Street Mall. Finally, running south is Elgin Street, home to trendy restaurants and night spots. More »

Currency Museum

Visitors are encouraged to explore the evolution of money and the monetary system during a visit to this somewhat quirky museum, situated on the ground floor of the Bank of Canada building on Sparks Street. Displays focus not only on Canadian currencies, but also on those of the entire world; a highlight is a giant circular stone once used as legal tender on Yap Island in the South Pacific. More »

Diefenbunker

Perhaps Canada's greatest artifact of the Cold War, this 100,000 square foot bunker is located less than an hour west of Ottawa in Carp. It was constructed at the height of nuclear tensions between 1959 and 1961, and named after then Prime Minister John Diefenbaker. Built on springs to absorb explosive shockwaves, the bunker can accommodate more than 500 people for 30 days. More »

Dows Lake Pavilion

This large pavilion at the edge of the Rideau Canal's picturesque Dows Lake offers relaxation and recreation. Two restaurants with large patios offer casual food, drinks and a wonderful view, while a full-service marina offers fuel, pump out, and slip rentals. In winter, the lake becomes part of the Rideau Canal skating rink and the pavilion rents a variety of winter sports equipment, including skates, sleighs and cross-country skis. During the summer, the marina rents canoes, paddleboats and inline skates. More »

Fairmont Chateau Laurier

For sheer history and elegance you can't beat the Chateau Laurier. This landmark Gothic-style hotel, located in the shadow of the Parliament Buildings, is within walking distance of the Rideau Canal and the Byward Market. It first opened in 1912; since then, it has played host to heads of state and has served as the setting for two movies. Each room is impeccable, with in-room pay-per-view movies, air conditioning and a choice of views upon request. More »

Frank Clair Stadium

With a capacity of almost 30,000 people, The Frank Clair Stadium plays host to some of Canada's major sporting events. The 92nd Grey Cup took place on these very grounds and it was also host to FIFA 2007 U-20 World Cup Soccer. Musical concerts, major stage shows, as well as city meetings are also held on its artificial turf. The Ottawa Civic Centre, home to the Ottawa 67's hockey team and site of numerous concerts, is located underneath the stands of this stadium. More »

Gatineau Park

This natural getaway is only a five-minute drive from downtown Ottawa. Take the Chaudière Bridge across the Ottawa River to Taché Boulevard and turn left. The park entrance is on the right, about two miles down the road. The park itself winds through a beautiful old growth forest and features several nature trails, lakes and panoramic lookouts. The area is especially beautiful in the fall, when the National Capital Commission stages its annual Fall Rhapsody series of tours and lectures. More »

Lansdowne Park

Lansdowne Park is one of the prime locations for live performances and trade shows in Ottawa. More than 65 million visitors have visited this site. It is also the venue for the annual Central Canada Exhibition (SuperEx). The main aim of this venue is to cater to all age groups and become a multi-purpose sports and entertainment center. Some of the facilities here include exhibition halls, an assembly hall, Aberdeen pavilion and the Civic Centre Theatre. These facilities are available for public events and can accommodate small and huge groups of people. More »

Laurier House

One of the most fascinating glimpses into Canada's political history can be had at this beautiful, oddly downscale Ottawa home. Originally home to Prime Minister Wilfrid Laurier (1896-1911) and later to William Lyon MacKenzie King (1921-30 and 1935-1948), the home predates 24 Sussex Drive as the official residence of the Prime Minister. Famous visitors to the house include Winston Churchill and Charles de Gaulle. Guided tours can be reserved ahead of time. More »

Le Moulin Wakefield Mill Inn

Wakefield is a small Quebec community located 25 minutes from Ottawa's city centre, and it is also home to a unique hotel built into a mill founded in 1838. The hotel is an architectural treasure nestled amongst beaches and small lakes within the Gatineau Hills. The inn itself straddles a small waterfall, which has been the subject many artistic works. Around the inn are numerous hiking trails so that visitors can look at this marvel from all angles. The inn also features a new full-service spa ideally situated at the base of a 28-foot waterfall, and a year-round outdoor hot tub for spa and hotel guests. Rooms, of course, are available but simply seeing the inn is worth a day trip. More »

National Arts Centre

The NAC showcases high quality Canadian and international professional performances and is the home of the world renowned National Arts Centre Orchestra. Excellent seating and acoustics allow for the ultimate appreciation of musical, dance, and theatrical performances. The center also has a fine restaurant where you can have a meal before or after performances. The atmosphere is upscale and people generally dress accordingly. Snacks, coffee, and cold beverages are sold during intermissions. Tickets are pricey and vary by performance. More »

National Gallery of Canada

Arguably the most beautiful structure in the nation's capital, and certainly a spectacular addition to Ottawa's skyline, the Gallery was designed by Moshe Safdie and completed in 1988. After entering the building, visitors proceed up a long, glass concourse with a vaulted ceiling that leads to the Great Hall. From the hall, visitors can access the gallery's many rooms, each based on an artistic style or period. Pieces include works by masters such as Pissaro, Gustav Klimt and Rembrandt. More »

National Library of Canada

A visit to this library could take you about 30 minutes, or it could be a multi-day experience. Open since 1953, the building houses two copies of every manuscript published in Canada, which totals more than 10 million publications. In addition to the library's extensive collection of books, there is also a music section that features records, tapes, compact discs, sheet music and even Glenn Gould's piano. Librarians respond to some 100,000 inquiries each year, so this is the ultimate Canadian information source. Settle down for a good read. More »

National War Memorial

Fresh flowers often grace the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, an unnamed Canadian victim of the First World War. Towering above are 22 figures frozen in bronze as they rush forward into battle. Nurses, pilots, soldiers and sailors all represent tales of self-sacrifice and courage. Though prominently located in the busy downtown core, this triangle of space becomes the centre of attention every November 11 at 11am, when the country marks Remembrance Day in honour of the men and women who paid the ultimate price for freedom. More »

Nepean Point

Sitting high above the Ottawa River across from Parliament Hill, this lookout is topped with a towering statue of the country's founder, Samuel de Champlain. A French explorer, Champlain established Canadian colonies in the early 1600s, charted the seacoast from Nova Scotia to Massachusetts, and explored river routes in Quebec and central Ontario. In his spare time, he set up a vast fur-trading network with Canada's native peoples. In the statue he clutches his astrolabe, an instrument used for navigation, which historians believe he lost on a portage of the Ottawa River. More »

Notre Dame Basilica

Built between 1839 and 1885, this neo-Gothic cathedral situated on Sussex Drive on the edge of the Byward Market is the oldest surviving church in Ottawa. Its twin spires and gilded Madonna are easily identifiable from nearby Parliament Hill and the surrounding area. The interior of the church is brightly painted and decorated with carved features, exquisite stained glass windows and hundreds of statues of various religious figures. The church is open daily for self-guided tours and prayer. More »

Ottawa Art Gallery

Owned and operated by the City of Ottawa, this is one of few major Ottawa attractions not associated with the federal government. The Firestone Collection is a first class exhibition of Canadian art, including works by Paul-Émile Borduas, Emily Carr and the Group of Seven. A modest collection of modern art showcases lesser-known Canadian artists. The Gallery does a roaring trade in rental art, while temporary exhibits focus on the city's physical and cultural development. More »

Ottawa Civic Centre

The Ottawa Civic Centre is one of the province's most popular venues with near year-round activities for the whole family. Home to the 67's, fans from across the country turn their eyes and prick their ears towards the seasonal rivalries that are widely anticipated. Major consumer shows and concerts are also held here regularly. More »

Ottawa Congress Centre

The largest conference and convention facility in Ottawa (84,000 square feet of meeting space), the Congress Centre plays host to hundreds of events every year. Located directly across from the Rideau Canal and beside the Westin Hotel, this facility can accommodate groups from 5-5,000. The Centre offers excellent technical support as well as food and beverage services. Walkways connect the facility to the Rideau Centre and the Westin, and there is an abundance of underground parking available. More »

Parliament Hill

Parliament Hill is at the political heart of Canada. Situated on a bluff overlooking the Ottawa River, it is actually a collection of three turn-of-the-century Gothic structures known as the East Block, Centre Block and West Block. The West Block and East Block contain the offices of Members of Parliament. The House of Commons and the Senate are located in the Centre Block with its soaring Peace Tower. More »

Peace Tower

The Peace Tower dominates Parliament Hill, rising over 300 feet into the sky above Ottawa. Dedicated to the men and women killed in World War I, the Peace Tower houses the Memorial Chamber; the Book of Remembrance at its center contains the names of the 66,650 Canadians killed in the Great War. Each day the book is turned to a different page. Other books around the chamber list the names of Canadians who lost their lives in other conflicts.

At the heart of the Peace Tower is a 63-bell carillon. The largest bell weighs in at over 10,000 kilograms, while the smallest is only four kilograms. Visitors to the Peace Tower can take a peek at the carillon as they take an elevator to the Tower's observation deck located just below the huge clock face. The carillon plays at 15- and 45-minutes after and at the top and bottom of every hour. More »

Peacekeeping Monument

Since 1950 more than 112,000 Canadians have served as peacekeepers in countries such as Cyprus, Haiti, Egypt, Cambodia, Bosnia and Rwanda. The Peacekeeping Monument, entitled Reconciliation, was commissioned by the Canadian government in 1988 when the United Nations was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize for 40 years of international peacekeeping. This monument, illustrating three peacekeeping figures, honours the men and women who have worn and continue to wear the blue beret, emblematic of peacekeeping service. More »

Prime Minister's Residence (24 Sussex Drive)

Canada's most famous address has been the residence of successive Prime Ministers since the 1950's. Unless you have an audience with the Prime Minister himself, however, your view of the home will be limited to peeking through a wrought iron fence that is guarded 24 hours a day. The building, which dates back to 1867, is located on the north side of Sussex Drive, across from the South African Embassy and Rideau Hall. More »

RCMP Musical Ride Centre

A visit to the RCMP Rockcliffe Stables brings you up close to the famous red-coated Canadian Mounties and their graceful four-legged mounts. After meeting the horses, you can visit the farrier station and walk through the tack room. The riding school provides a closer look at the challenging choreography the Mounties must master. You can also see the stately carriages that are used in royal escorts when the Queen visits Canada. The Musical Ride is a sight to behold, featuring choreographed demonstrations to music complete with lances and pennons. More »

Rideau Canal

Built between 1827 and 1832 without the aid of power machinery, the Canal is one of Ottawa's oldest landmarks; it runs from the Ottawa River near Parliament Hill all the way to Lake Ontario, though the section within the city limits ends at Hog's Back Falls on the south edge of the city. During the summer a wide range of vessels, including tour boats, glide along the waterway, while people in-line skate, jog or stroll on the canal's picturesque banks. During the winter, the canal is transformed into the "World's Longest Skating Rink," and is a hub of activity during Ottawa's Winterlude festival. More »

Rideau Falls

Located across from the former Ottawa City Hall on Sussex Drive, these pretty falls mark the end of the Rideau River's journey from the St. Lawrence River. Although not as spectacular as Hog's Back Falls, the Rideau Falls are still picturesque in their own right. The falls are located in Rideau Falls Park, within walking distance of 24 Sussex Drive and Rideau Hall. More »

Rideau Hall

Rideau Hall, which was built in 1838, has been the official residence of the Queen's representative to Canada since 1867. The grounds cover more than 32 hectares and feature a magnificent greenhouse and ornamental gardens. Visitors can take a self-guided tour or book one of the many guided tours offered during the summer months. There are a number of events hosted by the Governor General throughout the year. More »

Scotiabank Place

For a die-hard hockey fan, this is the best place to be. One of the better known stadiums in Ottawa, this place provides splendid seating arrangements and facilities. Book a seat in one of those private boxes with fine decor for the best viewing experience. The valet parking service is excellent and the parking lots are plentiful. Although the prices are on the expensive side, it's definitely worth the experience. The stadium is also used for lots of other events, including major rock concerts. More »

Yuk Yuk's Comedy Cabaret

This large, classic stand-up comedy club features the best comedians touring the North American Yuk Yuk's circuit, as well as a line-up of local talent. Located downtown, under the Capital Hill Hotel & Suites, the club includes a bar and restaurant and offers dinner/show packages, with dinner served two hours before show time. Diners can choose from steak, pasta, chicken or seafood dishes or a selection from the snack menu. More »