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Top 10 Things To Do in Ottawa, Canada in 2024

Ottawa, the capital of Canada, is a city that combines history, culture, and endless adventures in a way few other cities can. Whether you're strolling by majestic Parliament Hill or gliding down the Rideau Canal, there's something undeniably magnetic about this city. Not sure where to start? Here are the top 10 must-do activities when visiting Ottawa in 2024.

ByWard Market

Start your journey in Ottawa's bustling ByWard Market. One of the oldest and biggest markets in Canada, it’s packed with local artisans, unique boutiques, and food vendors offering farm-fresh produce alongside hand-crafted goods. This thriving marketplace brings together Ottawa’s local artists and food vendors, offering an authentic look at the city's creative culture.

You can spend hours roaming the stalls — grab fresh cheese, sample local maple syrup, or snag an amazing souvenir crafted by a local artisan. Plus, the energy here is contagious, making it a fun place to people-watch while grabbing something to eat.

Canadian Museum of Nature

Looking for more educational stops? Head to the Canadian Museum of Nature for an unforgettable look into Canada’s natural world. Set inside a historic building, the museum brings nature to life with its extensive collections, including dinosaur fossils and exhibits about Arctic ecosystems.

It's not just for kids either — adults will love diving into the impressive displays on Canadian wildlife and geological history. If you're looking to balance entertainment and education, this museum offers that perfect mix in a beautiful setting.

Rideau Canal

You can’t visit Ottawa without experiencing the Rideau Canal, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Depending on when you visit, you’ll either find the world's largest skating rink in the colder months or one of the most relaxing boat cruises during warmer weather. If you prefer to explore on land, walking and biking along the canal are popular activities too.

The canal sits at the heart of Ottawa—winding through the city while offering stunning views of its historic architecture and greenery. It's a great escape without even leaving the urban area.

National Gallery of Canada

For the art lovers out there, the National Gallery of Canada is an absolute must-see. This is more than a museum – it's an elegant architectural masterpiece with panoramic views which are an attraction in themselves. Inside, you’ll find thousands of art pieces ranging from Indigenous works to contemporary creations.

The gallery gives you the chance to dive into rich Canadian art history while also exploring global pieces that are equally stunning. If you're even slightly into art, don’t sleep on this one—it brings the best artistic talent right to the heart of the city.

Canadian War Museum

If you're interested in history, particularly military history, the Canadian War Museum has you covered. The exhibitions are both powerful and immersive, providing a deep look into the sacrifices made by Canadian forces throughout various conflicts.

It’s a sobering experience but a must for understanding this part of Canada's history. Even if military history isn’t your usual interest, there are stories and displays here that will capture your attention and give you a new appreciation for the impact of war on Canada and the world.

Parliament Hill

No trip to Ottawa would be complete without visiting Parliament Hill. Home to Canada’s federal government, this iconic site should be at the top of your list. You can explore the grounds, check out daily events like the Changing of the Guard, and even climb up the Peace Tower for an exceptional view of the entire city.

Whether you're into politics or simply want to take in one of Ottawa’s most famous landmarks, Parliament Hill’s striking architecture and historical significance make it a can’t-miss attraction.

Gatineau Park

Sometimes you need a break from city life, and Gatineau Park is the perfect escape. Just a short drive from downtown Ottawa, this park features over 165 kilometers of trails, making it a hiker’s paradise. Whether you want to take a leisurely walk, go for a long bike ride, or enjoy a scenic picnic, Gatineau park provides the peaceful, natural environment you crave.

It’s especially popular during fall, as the colorful autumn leaves put on quite the show. If you're a nature enthusiast or just want a little fresh air, this is where you need to go.

Canadian Tulip Festival

Spring in Ottawa brings the Canadian Tulip Festival, one of the most beautiful festivals in the country. Held each May, this vibrant event traces its roots back to the Dutch royal family, who gifted tulips to Canada as a symbol of gratitude following World War II. Today, over a million tulips bloom across the city, painting the town in bright, bold colors.

If you time your visit to Ottawa right, this festival is one of the best ways to experience the city’s lively springtime energy and enjoy a historical celebration with international significance.

Haunted Walk

Interested in Ottawa's darker side? Check out the Haunted Walk for an evening of thrills and chills. This guided tour takes you through the city’s creepiest locations, where you’ll hear strange and spine-tingling stories about Ottawa’s haunted history.

Even if you're normally skeptical about ghost stories, this tour is loaded with fascinating historical tidbits—and who knows, you might just come away a believer! It’s a fun and spooky way to learn more about the city’s past.

Amphibious Bus Tour

Saving the best for last, the Bilingual Guided City Tour by Amphibious Bus is the ultimate way to see Ottawa. Known as an "Amphibus," this unique vehicle rolls through the city’s streets and then plunges into the water for a scenic river cruise—an all-in-one sightseeing experience! The guide offers insights and stories in both English and French as you journey through Ottawa from land to sea.

If you want an easy yet exciting way to explore the heart of Ottawa, this tour is an absolute winner. It’s as informative as it is fun, making it our #1 pick for things to do in the city.

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There you have it—the top 10 must-see spots in Ottawa for 2024! Whether you're more into nature, history, art, or just looking for an unforgettable adventure, this city has something for everyone. So, what are you looking forward to the most? Let us know in the comments below, and don’t forget to subscribe and hit that notification bell to stay updated on all things travel with Travel Boss! Until next time, happy exploring!