Last Updated on February 28, 2024
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As far as Canadian cities go, Ottawa isn’t usually at the top of the list of places people want to visit. Even though it’s the country’s capital, most of the attention goes to cities like Toronto, Vancouver, Montreal or Quebec City. Ottawa wasn’t high on my travel bucket list either, but when I got the opportunity to visit, I jumped right on it and I’m glad I did. After spending one day in Ottawa, I have to say, that the city was a pleasant surprise.
Ottawa might seem like an unexciting city at first, but that first impression couldn’t be more wrong. Canada’s capital is a great combination of history, culture, art and outdoors. If you enjoy museums, Ottawa is a museum heaven. If you love nature, you’ll be surprised how green Ottawa is and how many outdoor activities you can choose from.
Another big surprise was how compact the city is. You might expect a capital city to be big, maybe a bit overwhelming, but that’s not the case with Ottawa. It’s just the right size, so you’ll be able to see most of the main sites, even with a limited time in the city. Most of the biggest attractions and landmarks are close to each other and within walking distance. You can see a lot in one day, especially if you get an early start.
How to get around Ottawa
Canada’s capital is a very walkable city and most of the main sites are located in the downtown area and within a short walking distance from each other. This is especially convenient when one day in Ottawa is all you have.
A couple of the attractions, that are located a bit further away, you can easily access via public transportation or a short taxi ride. Another option is a 24 hour Hop On Hop Off tour bus , which makes the loop around the city with 14 stops.
Things to do in Ottawa in one day
Visit Parliament Hill
Parliament Hill is one of the top attractions and a great place to start your day in Ottawa. It’s not only home to the Canadian government, but also worth visiting, if you enjoy beautiful architecture. There are 3 Gothic style buildings, that make up the Parliament Hill: Center Block and East and West Blocks on either side.
While the impressive exterior is a good enough reason to visit Parliament Hill, make sure to go inside as well, as it’s equally beautiful. There are free guided tours offered daily, where you can not only get a peak inside, but also learn about the history and political system of Canada. After the tour, take an elevator to the top of Peace Tower. This is one of the tallest structures in the city, so you are guaranteed some amazing views of Ottawa and across the river well into Quebec.
NOTE: Those who didn’t get a chance to take advantage of the free tour of the main building, will have to wait a while. The Center Block closed in 2018 to undergo major renovations, that are expected to last about a decade. During that time, House of Commons relocated to the West Block and Senate to the Canada Building, just a block away from Parliament Hill. For now, free tours are offered there.
After touring the inside, spend some time walking the beautiful grounds. Make sure to walk around to the back of the main Parliament building and enjoy great views of Ottawa River and the bridges.
Watch the Changing of the Guard ceremony
If you are visiting Ottawa between late June to late August, head to Parliament Hill in the morning for Changing of the Guard ceremony. It takes place daily ( weather permitting ) at 10 am on the front lawn ( get there around 9.30 am to secure a good spot ). It’s a great way to start the day before touring the building and the grounds.
Visit the National War Monument
A short walk from the Parliament Hill, you will come across the National War Monument, which commemorates the Canadians who died in World War I. It’s worth a quick stop and if you get there at the right time, you may see the Changing of the Guard, which takes place every hour on the hour.
Rideau Canal
Rideau Canal is one of the biggest attractions and a must visit during your one day in Ottawa. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the canal connects Ottawa to Lake Ontario and the Saint Lawrence River. One of the best things about Rideau Canal is, that it can be enjoyed year round.
During warmer months, it’s a perfect place to go for a stroll or a bike ride alongside the canal, as well as go paddle boarding or kayaking. One thing I especially recommend is taking a 90 minute Rideau Canal boat cruise. These run from May to October and are a perfect way to relax, rest your feet from walking around and see the city from a different perspective. It was one of the highlights of my trip to Ottawa.
In the winter, when the Rideau Canal freezes over, it becomes a skating rink. In fact, it’s the longest skating rink in the world, stretching for 7.8 km (4.8 miles). There are a couple places nearby, where you can rent a pair of skates for $20-25 for 2 hours ( Dows Lake Pavillon and Cyco’s Sports are both seconds away ).
Stroll through ByWard Market
Your day in Ottawa will not be complete without a visit to ByWard Market. Established in 1826, this is one of the oldest markets in Canada. It stretches for four blocks with variety of stores, cafes and vendors selling anything from fresh produce to meat to arts and crafts.
Except for a handful of days ( i.e. Christmas, New Year’s Day ), ByWard Market is open daily year round, but it’s especially nice in the warmer months. It’s a great place to stop for lunch at one of the many restaurants with outdoor seating.
Stroll along Sparks Street
Sparks Street is a pedestrian only street, that runs from Elgin to Lyon St. It’s lined with stores, restaurants and outdoor cafes.
Sparks Street is especially exciting during many festivals, that take place in Ottawa throughout the year. RibFest, PoutineFest and Busker Festival are some of the most popular and they all take place on Sparks Street. So if your visit to Ottawa coincides with one of them, definitely take a stroll and check it out.
Visit one of the museums
I am personally not a big museum person, especially when visiting for such a short time, but if you enjoy them, Ottawa is home to several amazing museums. While one day is sure not enough to visit them all, you definitely have time for one that interests you. Whether it’s history, art or nature, you’ll find a
Also, if you are in Ottawa at the right time and plan ahead, you can visit the museum of your choice for free. Most of them offer free admission on a certain day and time ( check a specific museum for details ).
- National Gallery of Canada – if you are an art lover, you definitely need to visit this museum. It’s home to an impressive collection of Canadian art. Admission is $20, free on Thursdays 5 – 8 pm.
- Canadian Museum of History – one of the most visited museums in the country and an awesome place to learn about the history of Canada. The museum is located in Gatineau, Quebec, directly across Ottawa River from Parliament Hill. To get there from downtown, you can either take a bus or hop on the Aqua taxi at Ottawa locks jetty ( from June to October ). Admission is $22 and you can book your tickets here. The museum offers free admission between 5 pm – 8pm ( make sure to book a timed ticket as early as Monday ).
- Canadian Museum of Nature – one of the best museums in Ottawa with many exhibits spread on 4 floors. Admission is $17.50 ( there are extra charges for certain exhibitions ) and you can book your time ticket online. On Thursday evenings 5 pm – 8 pm admission is free ( you still have to book your free entry ticket online )
- Canadian War Museum – great choice is you want to learn more about Canada’s military history. Admission is $20, free on Thursday nights 5 – 8 pm ( you still need to book a timed ticket online )
Where to stay in Ottawa
With just one day in Ottawa, your hotel should ideally be in the downtown area. This will put you in the walking distance to most major attractions. All the choices below fit that criteria.
Fairmont Château Laurier – the most famous hotel in Ottawa, as well as one of the landmarks in the city. With over 400 rooms, of which many include the views of Parliament Hill and Rideau Canal, as well as amazing amenities, this is definitely the nicest place to stay in Ottawa.
Andaz Ottawa ByWard Market – beautiful, modern hotel right by the ByWard Market. with beautiful views of Ottawa from their rooftop bar.
The Westin Hotel – located right on the Rideau Canal, with amazing views of the nearby attractions.
Le Germain Hotel – this 5 star hotel is a perfect choice if you are looking for a bit of luxury. Perfectly located with beautiful, spacious rooms and excellent service.
READ MORE:
- 2 days in Quebec City – a piece of Europe in Canada
- Top things to do in Niagara Falls, Canada
- A Weekend in Vancouver, Canada – Things to do in Vancouver for first time visitors
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