113Unofficial
Museums to get you inspired.

The Unofficial Museum of Royal Roots
When spring is in the air, that can only mean one thing: the Canadian Tulip Festival is back! With over a million tulips blooming across the capital, prepare to fill your camera roll with flower beds.

The Unofficial Museum of In Beer We Trust
Sip delicious, boundary-pushing artisanal beer whose themes often highlight Canadian connections, local ingredients and unique collaborations. Cozy up inside the tasting room or sit under the shade of a large tree on the outdoor deck.


The Unofficial Museum of Second-Hand Treasures
Search for treasures at this antique store with heart. Your vintage lamp, antique typwriter or classic teacup set all help Highjinx to provide, food, clothing and support to those in need in the community.


The Unofficial Museum of Legendary Eggrolls
Ottawa's oldest Chinese restaurant is home to famous egg rolls. These eggrolls are so popular that they're served during Ottawa Senators games at the Canadian Tire Centre.


The Unofficial Museum of Beach Volleyball
It's not an official day at the beach if you don't have sand in your hair and a rosy glow to your cheeks. Volley, spike, dig and dive your way into summer at the HOPE Volleyball Summerrfest at Mooney's Bay Beach, and then lay back and enjoy food, music and good vibes at this popular Ottawa festival.

The Unofficial Museum of Getting Lost
Saunders Farm has the greatest collection of hedge mazes in North America. Try not to get lost while enjoying the hayrides, interesting play structures, and more!

The Unofficial Museum of Water Revving
If you have the need for speed, it’s time to rent a Jetski and rev your way down the Ottawa River.

The Unofficial Museum of Canada, The Movie
Looking for something cool and completely free to do on a warm summer night? Catch this epic sound and light show nightly on the front lawn of Parliament Hill!

The Unofficial Museum of Romantic Walks
This magnificent collection of trees and shrubs covers about 35 hectares (86 acres) of rolling land. More than 2,000 varieties have been adapted to the region, some dating back to the first plantings in 1889.

The Unofficial Museum of Big Shiny Letters
Did you even visit the capital if you didn't take a selfie with the giant OTTAWA sign? Check it out on York St. in the ByWard Market, and be sure to stop by in the evening as the sign lights up the night in dazzling colours.


The Unofficial Museum of Asian Fusion
You won’t be feeling angry (or hangry) after visiting this food truck, especially if you order the Korean tacos… and pork belly sliders… with a side of egg rolls.

The Unofficial Museum of Going with the Flow
What better way to go with the flow than cruising along the Rideau Canal aboard a fully electric vessel! For 90-minutes, you're only task is to sit back and take in the UNESCO World Heritage site from its best vantage point: the water.

The Unofficial Museum of Rolling Around Town
With Ottawa's best-rated guided bike tours and rentals, you can dive into the city's culture, nature and history on safe and scenic paths! Connect with the outdoors by trying out this fun experience.

The Unofficial Museum of Unplugging
The biggest spa in North America is the perfect place to unwind. Relax in one of the many hot and cold pools, saunas, massages, or even the only salt water floating pool in America.


The Unofficial Museum of Finding Special Occasions
From traditional truffles and cakes, to unique flavours and specialty shapes, you’ll find the perfect treat for chocoholics and special occasions at this long-running, family-owned chocolate shop.


The Unofficial Museum of Locavorism
One of Canada’s oldest and largest public markets and a must-see when visiting the city, the ByWard Market is the place to eat, shop and take an epic selfie or two!


The Unofficial Museum of Snowy Trails
Try this 22 km of groomed trails for fat bike rides as well as 2 km of snowshoe trails located in the heart of a picturesque maple grove!

The Unofficial Museum of Thoughtfulness
This venerable shop has been selling exquisite flower arrangements and potted plants for almost 140 years. Your loved ones will be awed by the exquisite floral arrangements and fresh flowers.

The Unofficial Museum of Water Racing
Row, row, row your Dragon Boat right across the finish line at this free multi-day festival on the Rideau River. It’s the biggest event of its kind in North America!


The Unofficial Museum of Fancy Boat Watching
Don't miss this stop whether you're attending a National Arts Centre show or not. With a terrace overlooking the Rideau Canal, there's no better place to chat and dine.


The Unofficial Museum of Floating Bars
Take Ottawa's only floating Tiki bar and enjoy a relaxing tour up and down Ottawa River! Whether it’s just chilln' with friends, taking a romantic cruise, or coordinating a larger Tour/Corporate/School Group for a Tropical Ottawa Escape, Palapa Tours is one of the coolest ways to get out on the water!

The Unofficial Museum of Ceasars & Views
Soak in the summer vibes on this stunning patio overlooking the Rideau Canal locks. Bring your besties and order up their giant surf and turf caesar rimmed with mini-sliders and succulent prawns.

The Unofficial Museum of Eating On The Go
Calling all gourmet foodies, we’ve got a city tour for you! Eat your way through various Ottawa neighbourhoods and embark on an epicurean excursion of the culinary scene.


The Unofficial Museum of Seafood Towers
Entice your taste buds with a sumptuous and flavorful seafood tower at one of Canada's top 100 restaurants.


The Unofficial Museum of Grassroots
Immerse yourself in Ottawa's hip hop culture at this cool and vibrant festival held under the Dunbar Bridge each summer. Catch hip hop performances, dance battles, live art demos and a pretty sweet graffiti wall.


The Unofficial Museum of Over Easy
Serving classic Canadian comfort food since 1986, Zak’s Diner is an Ottawa institution that families love to frequent. Must be the milkshakes!


The Unofficial Museum of Taking a Good Selfie
The staircase behind Parliament Hill is a great place to catch some epic views or to get your steps in! Bring good shoes and endurance, as you'll need them for the climb, 286 stairs up

The Unofficial Museum of Foot Stomping
The Laff, as its known locally, is the city’s oldest bar dating back to 1849, and a legendary watering hole located in the ByWard Market area. Join locals for live music, pub grub and a lively ambiance.


The Unofficial Museum of Water Lilies
Step right into Monet’s universe as his art goes beyond canvas in this new immersive exhibit at the EY Centre. Get to know Monet through his environment, creative techniques and the Water Lilies that defined his later works.

The Unofficial Museum of Reconnecting with Nature
Escape to 361 kilometres of open area, where you may go for a run, cycle, swim, or simply take in the beautiful landscapes, lakes, and caverns.

Unofficial Museum of the Canadian Safari
Embark on a Canadian-style safari at Parc Omega and spot bison, elk, wolves and some VERY friendly deer, from the comfort of your car. For a truly unique experience, opt to stay overnight in a Wolf Cabin, and fall asleep to the sound of wolfs howling outside your window.


The Unofficial Museum of Messing Your Hair Up
Fly over Ottawa in a Waco UPF-7 open-cockpit vintage biplane and feel the wind in your hair while seeing the sights.

The Unofficial Museum of Global Treasures
Now this is something you'll just have to see for yourself. This vintage barn is brimming with one-of-a-kind goods made from local artisans around the world! But hurry, it's only open for 7 weekends in the fall.


The Unofficial Museum of Paying Your Respects
Take a moment to reflect at this large monument near Parliament Hill. Initially built to honour Canadians who died in the First World War, it now commemorates all soldiers who have given their lives for Canada.

The Unofficial Museum of Garden Getaway
A true getaway, Mackenzie King (Canada's longest-serving prime minister) would escape the hustle and bustle of the city to his cottage in Gatineau Park. See two of his cottages from the 1940s, have a bite in the charming tearoom, and wander the picture perfect gardens.


The Unofficial Museum of Being a Kid at Heart
Create fun and memorable moments with your family and friends at the biggest theme waterpark in Canada with a wide variety of attractions for thrill seekers of all ages.

The Unofficial Museum of Great Scoops
You had us at ice cream taco! Crafted on site in small batches with local ingredients, this ice cream shop in rural Ottawa is definitely worth the drive if you’re looking to beat the summer heat.

The Unofficial Museum of Nightly Discoveries
On Wednesday evenings in the summer, visit the long-running Parkdale Market in the vibrant Wellington West area to meet community producers and retailers and shop for everything from local beer to baclava!

The Unofficial Museum of Pizza by the Metre
Authentic Italian woodfired pizzas are the name of the game at Farinella in Little Italy. Come hungry and with friends, as their tasty pies are only sold by the meter and half-meter. Save room for some authentic Italian gelato after your feast, it's some of the best in town.


The Unofficial Museum of Meow
Look for hidden cat sculptures in and around the Murray Street parking garage in the historic ByWard Market neighbourhood. Try to find all 14 of the small bronze sculptures ranging from playing kittens to arching kitties.


The Unofficial Museum of Eating Sushi on a Tatami
Stick to the classics with C'est Japon à Suisha, serving Ottawa deliciously upscale and traditional Japanese Cuisine since 1974!


The Unofficial Museum of Snowscapes
THE spot for night skiing, with 12 brightly lit runs, Camp Fortune has more than 20 different donwhill runs from bunny hills to double black diamonds.


The Unofficial Museum of Avocado and Art
Delight your taste buds at this magnificent café and art gallery, which serves the only Korean corn dogs in Ottawa, which are cheesy to the extreme and topped with a variety of delectable toppings.

The Unofficial Museum of Slapshots
Take in the electric atmosphere of an NHL game in Canada’s capital and watch Ottawa's pro hockey team compete in the national sport. (Photo: Freestyle Photography)


The Unofficial Museum of Flowerbeds
Looking for a little respite without leaving the city? You've found your urban oasis right next to the ByWard Market! Pack a picnic or your favourite book and surround yourself with blooming flowerbeds and one of the best lookouts in the city.


The Unofficial Museum of Chasing Waterfalls
A waterfall you'll want to chase, Princess Louise Falls are easy to get to but will still give you the feeling of being transported to an oasis.

The Unofficial Museum of Open Air Art
Sneak away to this secret spot on the banks of the Rideau River and discover an urban outdoor art gallery like no other. This graffiti hot spot changes regularly, so be sure to stop by regularly to check out cool new creations from Ottawa's talented urban artists.

The Unofficial Museum of Immersive Art
Have you ever wondered what it would be like to be inside of a painting? Surround yourself with over 300 works of art from one the most famous and influential artists, Vincent Van Gogh, in this immersive 360 experience

The Unofficial Museum of Beer Makers
These laid-back bus or walking tours take you to Ottawa-area breweries for fun and informative tastings, plus distilleries, sporting events and activities. The best kind of adult field trip!


The Unoffical Museum of Winter Magic
Now this is an event that'll have you saying "oh" and "ah" as thousands of colourful lights illuminate downtown Ottawa. Make time for a pit stop on Parliament Hill for the free multimedia show projected onto centreblock.


The Unofficial Museum of Freshness
It turns out you CAN make friends with salad, especially when they taste like this. Pair it with the perfect pinot from the ByWard Wine Market also located inside LOLLO.

The Unofficial Museum of Twists and Turns
Twist and turn down an exhilarating 1km long monorail and feel the wind in your hair as you zip down the summer slopes of Camp Fortune at speeds of up to 40km/hr.


The Unofficial Museum of Snow Slides and Sculptures
We love winter! Celebrate free Canadian winter fun at this epic festival which takes place in the Ottawa region during the first three weekends of February each year!


The Unofficial Museum of Needing At Least Five Napkins
The only BFF we need is Burgers n’ Fries Forever! Handcrafted burgers ‘smashed’ to perfection and hand-cut and double-fried fries, need we say more? Psst, ask for the secret menu!


The Unofficial Museum of Good Vibes
10 days, +100 artists, 1 festival RBC Bluesfest is one of Canada’s largest outdoor music festivals and it takes place right here in downtown Ottawa. (Photo: Scott Penner)

The Unofficial Museum of Red and White
The biggest Canada Day party in the country takes place in Ottawa every year on July 1st!


The Unofficial Museum of Stories
In a cosy atmosphere with coffee from the best local roasters, light nibbles, and sweets like cookies, you may purchase both new and used books in this well-curated second-hand bookshop.


The Unofficial Museum of Oats and Scotch
Re-inventing the oatmeal game is at the heart of Ottawa's Oat Couture Cafe. Devour an inventive oatmeal bowl by day, and stop by after dark as they morph into the Montgomery Scotch Lounge, serving up over 75 different types of single malt scotch.


The Unofficial Museum of Treating Yourself
Indulge in small-batch ice cream, bubble waffles and ice cream tacos that come in fun and international flavours at this popular spot on Bank Street downtown.

The Unofficial Museum of Brunches & Haircuts
Come out of this restaurant feeling refreshed - with a full stomach after a delectable brunch and a new haircut!

The Unofficial Museum of Saying Panino Instead of Sandwich
Delicious homemade Italian deli sandwiches are the name of the game at Bottega Nicastro. Customize your own tasty creation for a picnic in the park or lunch riverside, and be sure to pick up some authentic Italian treats and a bottle of vino for later.

The Unofficial Museum of Finally Landing Your Kickflip
A skateboard store in downtown Ottawa, Canada, that is owned and operated by skaters. Whether you're searching for skateboards, shoes, jeans, places, coffee, or buddies, they've got you covered..

The Unofficial Museum of Pints
Patios that stretch a block? Yup. Quiet courtyard surrounded by greenery? Yup. Five unique bars under one roof? Also yup! Grab a pint (or two), enjoy live music 7 nights a week and soak up that genuine Irish hospitality.


The Unofficial Museum of The Classical
The largest chamber music festival IN THE WORLD takes place right here in Ottawa every summer! (Photo: Curtis Perry)


The Unofficial Museum of Grabbing a Cold One
Taking patio pints to a whole other level with 16 tasty craft beers on tap and an IG-worthy taproom. Need a recommendation? Try the Pink Fuzz!


The Unofficial Museum of the Largest Rink on Earth
Now here's something to scratch off your bucketlist: skate the world's largest rink! Every winter, the Rideau Canal turns into an epic outdoor rink for all to enjoy.


The Unofficial Museum of Walking on Water
Take a weekend stroll along an epic boardwalk through a 7,700-year-old bog. Part of Canada’s Capital Greenbelt, Mer Bleue Bog has a uniquely northern boreal landscape with many specifies of rare plants, birds and other wildlife.


The Unofficial Museum of Croffles
Croissants + Waffles = Croffles, a delicious union you’ll never be able to live without again! These buttery, flaky croissant meet crispy, fluffy waffle are made to order.


The Unofficial Museum of Pinot Noir
KIN Vineyards, a 47-acre rural estate in the middle of the Ottawa Valley, is renowned for its exceptional wine and stunning surroundings. Come enjoy the wine and the sunsets.


The Unofficial Museum of Vintage Finds
613flea market brings together artists and designers with independent boutiques, food merchants, and vintage apparel vendors. There's always something new, from handcrafted items to old treasures.


The Unofficial Museum of Shape-Shifting Pumpkins
Take a tour through this spectacular outdoor art exhibit of over 7,000 hand-carved pumpkins all lit at night along a kilometre long path in a picturesque 19th-century backdrop. Open nightly from late September through October, you won’t want to miss this chance to walk in a world of pumpkins.

The Unofficial Museum of The Cup
All hockey fans should visit this large sculpture to honour the Stanley Cup! Near this site at Sparks and Elgin Streets, Lord Stanley gifted the original cup to Canada in 1892 as hockey’s ultimate prize

The Unofficial Museum of Critters
Take a selfie with a sloth or come face-to-face with a reptile at this exotic animal rescue in rural Ottawa. Learn about reptiles, spiders, mammals and birds at North America’s most diverse animal outreach and education program.


The Unoffical Museum of Culinary Arts

The Unofficial Museum of Balance
Paddleboard within the city on a UNESCO World Heritage Site (Rideau Canal), the Ottawa River, the Rideau River, pools and more. SUPing options include yoga, fitness, SUP with your pup, and sunset paddles!

The Unofficial Museum of Cruisin'
Sit back and admire spectacular views of downtown sites such as Parliament Hill, the Rideau Canal Locks, Rideau Falls and the Canadian Museum of History while cruising on the majestic Ottawa River.


The Unofficial Museum of Free Falling
Take the plunge at Canada's highest bungee jump, and scream your way 200ft dowwwwwn while waiting for a quick head dip in the crystal clear waters of Morrision Quarry.

The Unofficial Museum of Crate Digging
The Record Centre is an independent record shop in Ottawa, Ontario, that specializes in high-quality new and used vinyl records as well as sound systems. The team loves to nerd out about music making it a welcoming experience.

The Unofficial Museum of Giant Bird Cages
Nested in one of Ottawa’s oldest buildings, prepare to be transported back to yesteryear with timeless tin tiles, ornate ceilings and bird cage motif. Come for the atmosphere, stay for the cocktails and modern menu.


The Unofficial Museum of Screaming
Scream your way through 2 provinces in less than a minute on Interzip Rogers, the first interprovincial zipline in the world!


The Unofficial Museum of Hoppiness
Seeking good eats and even better beers, you’ve come to the right place. Industrially-hip, this building has a storied past (think illegal motorcycle chop shop) before being rescued and renovated into the neighbourhood watering hole you’ll see today.

The Unofficial Museum of authentic Turkish food
Craving authentic Turkish food? Look no further than the Turkish Village Restaurant! Just make sure to save room for the baklava and Turkish coffee.

The Unofficial Museum of The Longest Day
Experience some of Canada’s best Indigenous talent through music, dance, workshops, food and more at this free, family-friendly event at Mādahòkì Farm. The Competition Pow Wow is always popular!

The Unofficial Museum of Postcards You Can Eat
Sending love… and chocolate with these completely edible and 100% mailable Postcard Chocolate Bars! All you have to do is a find your favourite funky, fun, weird or interesting flavour combination – like Dried Ramen or Pinot Noir.


The Unofficial Museum of Secret Spices
Indulge in some of the best shawarmas in town at Shawarma Palace, which has been affectionately named Ottawa's favourite. There's a good chance you'll have to come back for more.


The Unofficial Museum of Zoning Out
On this little but charming island, you shouldn't be shocked if time seems to stop still. It's the ideal place to unwind and take in the sights and sounds of nature.

The Unofficial Museum of Milk Vodka
This unique distillery located just outside of Ottawa transforms unused dairy milk sugars into a tasty smooth spirit called Vodkow. Try the classic in a summer cocktail, or opt for their Vodkow cream liquor to sneak into your morning coffee.

The Unofficial Museum of Cocktails and Crabapple Trees

The Unofficial Museum of Putting on a Show
Stop by the new Gallery 55 on your next visit to the ByWard Market to experience unique exhibitions from international and local communities. Find it on the 2nd floor of the ByWard Market Square.


The Unofficial Museum of Latte Art
Located in a historic building in downtown Ottawa, Little Victories will have you snapping up more than their delicious locally roasted coffee. One of the most IG friendly cafes in the city, a selfie and a latte is a must in this bustling cafe, and Suzy Q doughnuts only sweeten the deal.


The Unofficial Museum of Buzzzzzzzzzzzing
The buzz around Gee Bees Honey is legit! This local, family-run honey farm provides cool private beehive tours, and offers up some of the tastiest pure Canadian honey in the region.


The Unofficial Museum of Cozy Rides
Beat the winter blues with this brand new winter hop-on hop-off tour! Stay cozy (and cute) in these heated vintage buses as you cruise the city.

The Unofficial Museum of Spooky Stories
Prepare to be spooked as you visit some of Ottawa’s most haunted spots! Embark on a lantern-lit walk of Ottawa’s hidden history that the whole family will enjoy.

The Unofficial Museum of It's Not What You Think
No trip to Ottawa is complete without at least one BeaverTails! From classic cinnamon and sugar to special flavours like Maple Butter or Nutella, you’ve gotta try them all.


The Unofficial Museum of Pinkies Up
Fairytale dreaming of afternoon tea in a castle? Pinkies up as you sip on aromatic teas and nibble on a tower of elegant finger sandwiches and decadent scones in the iconic Fairmont Chateau Laurier.


The Unofficial Museum of Indigenous Culture
Mādahòkì means "to share the land" in the Anishnaabe language which reflects the farms focus in celebrating and experiencing authentic Indigenous culture. Their seasonal events highlight traditional food, dance, music and more while you'll find year-round marketplace and other programming.


The Unofficial Museum of Squeaky Cheese
Is a poutine even a poutine without squeaky cheese curds? St. Alberts Cheese Co-op is the OG when it comes to curds and locally sourced cheeses.


The Unofficial Museum of Riddles
Race against the clock to see if you and your friends or family can escape using just your wits. Looking for a challenge? See if you can escape the world’s largest escape room at the Diefenbunker, a Cold War-era underground bunker.

The Unofficial Museum of Bumpy Rides
Take a guided rafting excursion near downtown Ottawa with a view of Canada’s beautiful Parliament Buildings! Amp up this fun trip down the Ottawa River with body surfing and cliff jumping along the way.

The Unofficial Museum of Eating Your Greens
Eating your greens doesn't have to be a bore. Surprise your taste buds with delicious fresh whole vegan meals you won't feel bad about later!

The Unofficial Museum of Choose Your Own Adventure
With over 800km of beautiful recreational pathways, Ottawa is the perfect city to explore by bike! Rent one for the whole family and set out on a sightseeing adventure on two wheels.


The Unofficial Museum of Man's Best Friend
Visit this cute and meaningful life-sized bronze dog statue in Confederation Park in downtown Ottawa. Reflect on how animals have played a role in Canada’s military history, or simply take a selfie with your pooch

The Unofficial Museum of Fall Colors
Enjoy the fall colours everywhere in the Capital Region from October 1st to 23, 2022.Take me to the colours!

The Unofficial Museum of Blues and Brews
From its roots as Ottawa's “Home of the Blues” to its current status as a legendary live music venue, this ByWard Market spot hosts everything from international blues artists to local performers


The Unofficial Museum of Ice Racing
You'll never see an event quite like this one! Cheer on internainal teams as they push dragon boats outfitted with special blades alon the Rideau Canal Skateaway at the World’s Largest Ice Dragon Boat Festival!

The Unofficial Museum of Creativity
Grab your paintbrushes, pencils and smock, Ace Arte Studio is calling your name. Try your hand at pottery, painting or drawing with immersive creative workshops and art classes.


The Unofficial Museum of Airplane Mode
Cheers with a glass of champs or cold local brew while you chow down on a selection of mouth-watering gourmet hotdogs, all with a stunning view of Rideau Falls and the Ottawa River tableside.

The Unofficial Museum of Taps
Try a dozen or more beers on tap, tour the expansive tasting room, or sit on the patio at this large craft brewery located in the charming village of Vankleek Hill, located between Ottawa and Montreal.

The Unofficial Museum of Happy Hour
A brewery that loves to tell the stories of Ottawa, Kichesippi Beer Co. is named after the Algonquin word used to describe the Ottawa River as “Great River”. And they make great beer, too!

The Unofficial Museum of Scenic Cardio
There’s no better place to catch a sunset than the Rideau Canal! Boat, bike, paddle or stroll along this scenic UNESCO World Heritage Site that weaves its way through the downtown core.


The Unofficial Museum of Round Treats
There's no way you can resist these delicious and delectable donuts no matter what sort of diet you're on. They're also sure to brighten your spirits no matter what mood you're in.


The Unofficial Museum of Not Knowing the Difference Between a Cortado And a Flat White
Need a pick me up? These local coffee roasters have been in the bean biz since 1998 ensuring that each cup is ethically sourced and organically grown.


The Unofficial Museum of Maple Delights
Get sticky at this family-run sugar shack and adorable farm in rural Ottawa. Known for their liquid gold in the spring, their adorable baby animals, summer picnics, and Christmas Village will have you coming back year-round.

Vanier Museopark
If you're looking for a sweet way to discover the rich heritage of Vanier, head to the Museopark. It's the only francophone museum in Ottawa and is home to a working sugar shack!

Pinhey's Point Historic Site
Pinhey’s Point Historic Site features a manor house and surrounding ruins on the banks of the Ottawa River. A scenic location for boaters, cyclists and hikers, this tranquil parkland is one of Ottawa's most beautiful outdoor spaces.


Canadian Museum of Nature
Explore the fascinating science related to fossils, mammals, minerals, birds, plate tectonics, Arctic discovery and more in the historic Canadian Museum of Nature.


Royal Canadian Mint
Take a fascinating, affordable tour to learn how coins are made, and shop for unique gifts and collectibles at the Royal Canadian Mint near the ByWard Market.

Canadian Museum of History
Discover the events, people and objects that have shaped Canada at the Canadian Museum of History, across the Ottawa River from Parliament Hill.


Diefenbunker, Canada's Cold War Museum
Ponder the past as you tour the Diefenbunker: Canada’s Cold War Museum, an underground bunker designed to shelter Canadian VIPs during a nuclear attack.


Cumberland Heritage Village Museum
Step back in time and experience the life of the 1920s and 30s as you stroll through the dozens of heritage buildings at this quaint museum in Cumberland.


Bytown Museum
Housed in the city's oldest stone building is where you'll find the story of Ottawa's history, including the construction of the Rideau Canal, the town's selection as Canada's capital, and Ottawa's rowdy lumberjack past.


Fairfields Heritage House
Learn the epic story of almost 200 years of rich & local history at this 19th Gothic Revival farm house and enjoy family fun at the beautiful green lawns surround!


Canadian Children’s Museum
Travel to exciting destinations, like an open-air market or a cargo ship, all without leaving the Canadian Children’s Museum! Bring the family and explore other cultures in a fun, enriching experience located inside the Canadian Museum of History.

Osgoode Township Historical Society and Museum
Explore the collection of over 10,000 artefacts while wandering around the grounds orchard and heritage garden modeled after a 1907 School Garden.

Billings Estate National Historic Site
Home to one of Ottawa's oldest survivings houses, built in the early 1800s, this National Hitoric site sits on 8 acres of beautifully lansdscaped green space for all to enjoy.


Ottawa Art Gallery
The Ottawa Art Gallery (OAG) features local, national and international historical and contemporary art in a stunning architectural setting. And admission is free!


Rideau Hall
At the Ottawa residence and workplace of Canada’s governor general, you can tour the mansion and explore the landscaped grounds for free.


Nepean Museum
A space for kids and families to spend quality times together with fun hands-on events, programs and exhibitions. Also experience Nepean's history through a series of changing exhibits.


Canada Agriculture and Food Museum
Meet cute farm animals and learn where your food comes from on a family-friendly visit to the Canada Agriculture and Food Museum.


Canada Aviation and Space Museum
Discover Canada’s aviation and aerospace history—from the 1909 Silver Dart to the International Space Station—at the Canada Aviation and Space Museum.


Parliament of Canada
The Parliament of Canada is one of the country’s most iconic sites. The historic, neo-Gothic Parliament Buildings make it a must-see when visiting Canada’s capital. Take a free guided tour of the two sites temporarily housing Parliamentary Chambers.


National Arts Centre
Catch a show at the National Arts Centre, the only bilingual, multidisciplinary performing arts centre in Canada, and one of the largest such centres in the world.


Watsons’ Mill and Dickinson House
Built in the 1860s, this significant historical site showcases the region's industrial past and community foundation. It celebrates the culture and history of Manotick through guided tours, venue rentals, school programs, and more! (Photo: Maureen McPhee)


Canadian War Museum
Discover Canada’s rich military history at Ottawa’s Canadian War Museum through artifacts, personal stories, artwork, photos and interactive presentations.


Bank of Canada Museum
Create your own avatar and learn about the important role you play in the economy. Hands-on exhibits illuminate everything from the psychology of economic expectations to the history of bank note design.


Canada Science and Technology Museum
Learn about steam locomotives, gold miners, climate change, hydroelectricity and more at the family-friendly Canada Science and Technology Museum.
