The 10 Best Places to see in Ottawa
Cathedral-Basilica of Notre Dame385 Sussex Dr, Sussex Dr and Saint Patrick St, Ottawa K1N 5h5 · 613-241-7496
Description: Located at the end of Byward Market, Ottawa's oldest church contains more than 200 statues, many of which were carved by the sculptors responsible for the Parliament buildings.
Central Experimental Farm
Experimental Farm Dr, off
Prince of Wales Dr, Ottawa K1G 5A3 · 613-759-6900
Description: Home of the Canada Agriculture Museum, the Central Experimental Farm is located southwest of downtown. Families adore visiting the farm, whether it's to tour the exquisite gardens and greenhouses or visit the farm itself, which is home to all types of cows, pigs, sheep, goats, and horses. The expanse along the Rideau Canal and overlooking Dows Lake is a favorite "stomping ground" of local walkers, joggers, and cyclists. The nearby Agriculture Museum, housed in an early 20th century barn, contains a variety exhibits, including several piece of old farm machinery.
Confederation Square
Elgin St at Wellington St, Ottawa
K1A 0A9
Description: One of the centerpieces of Ottawa's Parliament Hill area, Conferedation Square is surrounded by the city's most important buildings. The legacies of the 66,651 Canadian men and women who died in World War I are well preserved by a beautiful granite arch called the National War Memorial. Located in the center of Confederation Square, this fitting tribute stands as a lasting reminder of the price many have paid for Canada's liberty.
Dows Lake
1001 Queen Elizabeth Driveway, Ottawa K1S
5K7 · 613-232-1001
Description: Located across from the Central Experimental Farm, this park offers a variety of activities year 'round, from cross-country skiing and ice-skating to paddle boating and biking. The pavilion at Dows Lake is the site of Ottawa's popular Tulip Festival, held each year in May.
Mackenzie King Estate
Rue Barnes, Gatineau Park, Kingsmere
J9B 1H7 · 819-239-5000
Description: Located in scenic Gatineau Park, this estate was the home of former Prime Minister Mackenzie King. Canada's longest serving prime minister, King further ensured his legacy with this exceptional gift to the Canadian people. Take a romantic stroll through the lavish gardens and stop by the Moorside Tea Room for an outstanding meal. Be sure to take advantage of the many activities offered in the summer!
Ottawa River Parkway
Ottawa
Description: Head west on Wellington Street, past the Parliament Hill area, and the road turns into the Ottawa River Parkway, a scenic drive that follows along the banks of the Ottawa. Be sure you take your camera with you, as there are several pull-off areas that offer dramatic views of the river and surrounding countryside. If you're a cycling enthusiast, the Parkway offers an ideal afternoon ride.
Residence of the Prime Minister
24 Sussex Dr, Ottawa
K1A 0A3
Description: Following the government's purchase of this stone mansion in 1943, this mansion became the official residence of the Prime Minister. Although the home is closed to the public, its majestic beauty is well worth a drive by.
Rideau Canal and Locks
Wellington St, Ottawa
Description: In operation since the 19th century, the Rideau Canal runs through the city southward towards Kingston through 24 locks and canals. During the winter months, the Rideau Canal serves as the world's longest skating rink. Warmer weather sees the canal filled with boats and lined with bikers. Boat tours along Rideau Canal are available.
Rideau Falls
Sussex Dr, Ottawa
Description: Once you've seen these beautiful falls
with the downtown skyline in the background, it's easy to see why Ottawa's
second-leading industry is tourism. Cross over the bridge to Green Island,
and you can see the second section of falls. In the wintertime, the falls
freeze, seeming to take on a curtain-like appearance ("rideau" means "curtain" in
French). For the best vantage point of the falls, park next to the French
Embassy on Sussex and make your way down to the park area.
