Ottawa is often seen as
the city of museums.

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.

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

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.

Indulge in the heavenly taste of authentic, handcrafted bagels at Kettleman's Bagel Co.! Open 24/7, 365 days a year (seriously, there's no lock on the front door) this is a must-visit destination for bagel lovers everywhere.

Get your hyperlocal fix each Sunday by browsing more than 100 vendors based within 100 kilometres of Ottawa at Lansdowne in the Glebe. You’ll find fresh produce, prepared foods, furniture and crafts.

Sit courtside for an adrenaline-pumping basketball game filled with high-flying dunks, thrilling buzzer-beaters, and fierce competition. The Ottawa BlackJacks play in the CEBL (Canadian Elite Basketball League" against teams across the country from May to August.

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)

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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!

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!

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.

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.

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.

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. 

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.

Fuel up while browsing unique Indigenous-made products such as apparel and home goods at this coffee-shop-meets-Indigenous-culture-hub. This Anishinaabe-owned business is located at Lansdowne near downtown

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.

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.

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!

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.

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!

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.

Come and explore this hidden gem just outside Cumberland Village in Ottawa. Immerse yourself in the beauty of over 70 sculptures placed in a natural setting at this nine-acre wooded ravine with walking trails and quaint bridges over a meandering creek. The Humanics sanctuary and sculpture park is a unique and diverse Canadian Institution dedicated to promoting non-violence, human development, justice, and peace.

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..

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.

A true hidden treasure, Canada's Capital Greenebelt encircles Ottawa with 20,000 hectares of wetlands, woods, and other unspoiled green spaces. Find 16 conservation and recreation areas all conveniently located within Ottawa city limits!

Order the crispy fish tacos and an el fuego spicy marg and keep ‘em coming! Feeling adventurous? Try the fan favourite Ox Tongue Taco. With two locations and a takeout window, take your tacos for dine in or to go.

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.

An Ottawa foodie's best kept secret is Kuidaore, serving up Japanese cuisine. From fresh sushi rolls to heart ramen bowls, this is one restaurant you won't want to miss

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.

Take Ottawa's only floating 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!

Take in the sweet sounds of jazz during this summer festival. From big band to avant garde, catch some of the world’s most renowned musicians on indoor and outdoor stages across the city.

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.

Buckle up for the ultimate tour of Ottawa that takes you from the streets to the water in one awesome ride. This all-in-one tour takes you to 75 different attractions and sites around the city.

Le Cordon Bleu Ottawa Culinary Arts Institute is the only campus for Le Cordon Bleu in North America. Every year, students from all over the world, representing more than 100 nationalities, attend our campus to share a common bond in their passion for pastry and cuisine.

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 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 biggest Canada Day party in the country takes place in Ottawa every year on July 1st!

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.

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.

Lace up your sneakers and get ready for Canada's most popular multi-day race weekend in Ottawa this May! Whether you're a seasoned pro or a first-timer, there's a race for you.

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.

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.

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.

Join the roaring crowds at TD Place Stadium at Lansdowne as Ottawa’s Canadian Football League (CFL) team battles for a chance at the Grey Cup.

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.

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

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!

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.

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)

Ottawa is bursting with rainbows every August in celebration of Pride Week with diverse Capital Pride programming in parks, streets, clubs and other sites across the city.

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

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.

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

Prepare to be mesmerized. Where the Rideau and Ottawa Rivers meet is where you’ll find these twin falls., proving that two are truly better than one.

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.

Explore the city on wheels and feel the wind in your hair as you navigate the expansive multi-use pathway network of the Capital Pathway. From picturesque waterfront routes to trails through lush greenery, this is your ticket to endless fun, fitness, and breathtaking views. Grab your gear and let the journey begin!

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.

Aw shucks! With a focus on sustainable seafood and farm-to-table dining, their menu features an oyster bar and tantalizing seafood dishes.

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.

Lights, camera, pyrotechnics! Watch world-class pyromusical peerformances take over the Ottawas skyline this August as you kiick back and relax on the beautiful lawns of the Canadian Museum of History.

A foodie's paradise with fresh-baked artisan breads, IG worthy brunch, sweet towering kronuts, and the epic Cripsy Fried Pickle Melt!

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!

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.

If you're looing for the fastest way to explore a neighbourhood, the Thursty Pedaler had got you covered! Part pub crawl, part workout class, whole lot of fun.

As an Ottawa staple for more than 20 years, Le Moulin de Provence bakery serves up artisan breads, fresh-baked French pastries, and more to the city's residents and visitors. Bon appétit!

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.

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!

Fly over Ottawa in a Waco UPF-7 open-cockpit vintage biplane and feel the wind in your hair while seeing the sights.

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!

Magic of Lights is a unique and dazzling drive-through holiday lights experience to celebrate the season.

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.

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!

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. 

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.

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.

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

Step into a dazzling winter wonderland at Alight at Night, where Upper Canada Village comes to life with over on million twinkling lights! Stroll the picturesque village while Christmas music fills the air for a magical evening the whole family will enjoy.

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!

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.

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.

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

All aboard! Disocver Ottawa's hidden gems, iconic landmarks, and must-see attractions at your own pace with this hop-on, hop-off bus tour. Don't forget your camera, there's plenty of picture-perfect moments to capture along the way!

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

Get ready for the ultimate musical extravaganza that is CityFolk! Located at Lansdowne Park, this multi-day festival is the ultimate laid-back vibe. See headliners like Hozier, Iggy Pop and the Arkells in an intimate outdoor setting or bring your blanket and post up on the hill overlooking the festival.

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.

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.

Come out of this restaurant feeling refreshed - with a full stomach after a delectable brunch and a new haircut!

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.

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.

Pick a dinner date you really like for a night at award-winning Atelier. Their 44 course tasting menu, filled with inventive creations by chef Mark Lepine, will have your tastebuds dancing, and your IG story on fire.

Enjoy the fall colours everywhere in the Capital Region from October 1st to 23, 2022.Take me to the colours!

Tis the season and the best way to get into the holiday spirit is at this European-style Christmas Market! Start with some mulled wine or hot cocoa before making your way stall to stall to peruse local goodies. Open on weekend throughout the holiday season.

Whether you're floating above the city in a balloon, or enjoying the carnival atmosphere and live music onsite, this Ottawa festival will have yours eyes to the sky, and the excitement vibrating through your bones.

The only thing better than patio pints is having them in a secret courtyard garden surrounded by blooming crabapple trees right outside the National Gallery of Canada!

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.

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.

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

Step into a world of threads and fabrics at Ottawa's finest quilt shop. Located in historic old Orleans, Quilty Pleasures offers quilters a haven of possibilities. Let your imagination weave wonders in this cozy, friendly space.

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.

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!

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.

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. 

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!

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.

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 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.

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.

This unassuming restaurant in Little Italy is known for it's mouthwatering Tater Tot poutine and handcrafted cocktails. See something you like on the wall? Everything is for sale, so vintage shop between bites.

Don’t be fooled by this grocery & deli’s exterior, Di Rienzo’s is still one of the top places to grab the best sandwichs in the city!

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.

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 only thing better than a well crafted cocktail is if you're sipping it on a stunning rooftop patio! Copper Spirits & Sights is Ottawa's tallest rooftop bar with views of the city you don't want to miss.

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.

Hungry? From braised brisket to tofu “belly”, you’ll want to stop by this spot in Downtown Bank for super tasty hand-crafted bao.

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.

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.

Embrace the spirit of exploration at Dunrobin Distilleries. With ingredients sourced from their own organic farm right outside the city, you'll want to stop in for their fan-favourite Earl Grey Gin or the classic Canadain Whiskey or Rye.

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 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

Sip handcrafted cocktails and snack on small bites among the plants, herbs and vegetables of their backyard garden patio or cozy up to the bar in their intimate indoor ambiance.

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.