Things to do in Ottawa

Activities, attractions and tours

Visit Ottawa

Types of activities

Where to stay

Ottawa travel guide

Major\'s Hill Park which includes snow and a church or cathedral

Ottawa featuring ice skating, snow and a bridge

Rideau Canal showing a city, a river or creek and a bridge

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What to do in Ottawa

Popular places to visit

Parliament Hill

Spend a day enjoying the lively debates, artworks, library and Gothic Revival architecture of Canada’s political heart.

Byward Market showing outdoor eating, signage and markets

Byward Market Square

Fresh local produce, artisanal handicrafts and historic courtyards are some of the many features of Ottawa’s oldest and busiest market.

Rideau Canal

This engineering and scenic marvel fills with pleasure craft in summer and transforms into the world’s longest naturally frozen skating rink in winter.

Carleton University

Explore the campus of Carleton University as part of your travels around Ottawa. Visit the shops and top-notch restaurants in this walkable area.

National Arts Centre

You can get tickets for a performance at National Arts Centre during your trip to Ottawa. Experience the fascinating museums or attend a sporting event in this walkable area.

Canadian Museum of History

Traverse 20,000 years of Canadian history in just one day at Ottawa’s treasure house of culture.

Canadian War Museum

The country’s museum of military history features collections of weapons and vehicles that cover hundreds of years of conflict.

Confederation Square showing an administrative building, heritage architecture and a monument

Elgin Street

Take the family on an outing to Elgin Street during your trip to Ottawa. Visit the shops and lively bars in this walkable area.

Canadian Tire Centre

Catch an event at Canadian Tire Centre during your trip to Ottawa. Discover the top-notch restaurants and great live music in this family-friendly area.

Areas of Ottawa

Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica featuring heritage elements, a church or cathedral and heritage architecture

Downtown Ottawa

4/5(47 area reviews)

Discover art, delve into history and savor natural beauty in the heart of Canada’s national capital, a delightful blend of old and new.

Kanata

Kanata is known for its abundant dining options, and you can plan a trip to Canadian Tire Centre and Kanata Centrum Shopping Centre while you're in town.

Nepean

Nepean is known for its ample dining options, and you can make a stop by Nepean Sportsplex and Bayshore Shopping Centre while in the area.

ByWard Market

A noteworthy feature of ByWard Market is its popular shops. While you're in town, be sure to stop and check out Byward Market Square and Rideau Centre.

Orleans

Orleans is noteworthy for its shopping, and you can make a stop at top attractions like Petrie Island Park and Place D'Orleans Shopping Center.

Hull

4/5(2 area reviews)

Hull is a destination visitors seek out for its interesting museums, casinos and stunning river views. You might want to check out attractions like Canadian Museum of History or Casino du Lac Leamy while you're exploring the neighbourhood.

Looking for fun things to do nearby? Check things to do near me to find and book the best things to do, fun activities, and top attractions wherever you happen to be.

Casselman

Merrickville-Wolford

Frequently asked questions

Is Ottawa worth visiting?

One of the most popular things to do in Ottawa is visit Canadian Museum of History. Tick this major attraction off your list, then experience more of the area's culture and history.

How do I spend a day in Ottawa?

Kick your day off with a visit to Canadian Museum of History and Canada Aviation and Space Museum. Then, explore other parts of Ottawa for a bite to eat and a little retail therapy.

What is the top tourist attraction in Ottawa?

Canadian Museum of History is one of the top tourist attractions in Ottawa and should be high on every to-do list of the area.

Is three days enough to stay in Ottawa?

Three days in Ottawa is more than enough to visit the city's major attractions. Many travellers book for two days on average. Canadian Museum of History, Canada Aviation and Space Museum and Canadian Museum of Nature are among the top-rated sights. Want to discover more? Hang around a little longer to explore nearby hotspots like Gatineau.

Is Ottawa a walkable city?

It all depends on what you want to do and see in Ottawa. Several attractions, like Canadian Museum of History and Canadian Museum of Nature, are reachable on foot. If you're up for a wander through some of Ottawa's neighbourhoods, Downtown Ottawa is 2 kilometres away from downtown, while Byward Market - Parliament Hill is 0.97 kilometres away from the centre and also within walking distance.

What are some activities to do in Ottawa with kids?

If you're looking for activities and attractions for all ages, take a look at these terrific ideas for what to do in Ottawa with kids.

What to do in Ottawa for adults?

Funhaven Entertainment Centre and Parliament Hill are just two of the things to do in Ottawa. With plenty of activities available, there's something here for everyone.

Are there free things to do in Ottawa?

One of the top ways to discover free things to do in Ottawa is to speak with a local tour guide. You'll get insider tips on cool neighbourhoods, parks and other hotspots you can visit without reaching for your wallet. Major's Hill Park is one place that doesn't charge an admission fee.