The best way to get to know Ottawa is by foot. A great place to get oriented is Parliament Hill, the seat of the national government. Try to get there by 10 am weekdays in the summer to see the changing of the guard, and then take a tour of the Parliament Buildings. From fall through spring, you might even catch the proceedings in the House of Commons or the Senate. From Parliament Hill, you'll be able to view the Rideau Canal, a fine place to take a boat ride or go skating, depending on the season. After a walking tour of Parliament Hill, you may wish to go next door to the Fairmont Chateau Laurier for traditional afternoon tea.
The most stunning natural sight in Ottawa remains the world-famous Canadian Tulip Festival in May, when the entire city bursts with masses of red, yellow and white tulip blossoms.
For those interested in Ottawa's cultural offerings, the National Gallery of Canada has the world's largest collection of Canadian art. Across the Ottawa River in Quebec, you'll find the city's francophone neighbor Gatineau (formerly known as Hull), as well as Gatineau Park, a local mecca for recreation. The Canadian Museum of Civilization in Gatineau has a wide range of cultural exhibits and is an architectural masterpiece worth a side trip. The imposing totem poles in its Grand Hall are a highlight.
This casino has more than 1,900 slot machines, as well as blackjack, poker and other gaming tables. There is also an electronic racetrack. Boaters will appreciate the mooring facilities, featuring 20 spaces for private craft. The casino also has a fine-dining room, two other restaurants, four bars, Las Vegas-style shows and big-name entertainment. The grounds are beautiful, featuring a towering fountain rising from an old limestone quarry. Guests must be at least 18 years old to enter the casino, but the restaurants and theater are open to all ages. Open Monday-Thursday 9 am-4 am, 24 hours from Friday 9 am-Monday 4 am. Free parking. Tourists staying at most of the hotels in Ottawa receive a free ticket on the No. 21 STO (Gatineau) bus, which goes through Ottawa and stops at the casino. 1 Casino Blvd., Gatineau. Phone 819-772-2100. Toll-free 800-665-2274. http://www.casino-du-lac-leamy.com.
| Historic Sites | Top  |
Visit Canada's First Nations village located on the historic island meetingplace of the aboriginal peoples of Canada. Participate in unique interactive history and cultural experiences, try traditional native cuisine and enjoy dance performances and craft workshops. Handcrafted souvenirs and gifts are available on-site. Open daily mid-May to late June and early September to mid-October for groups only July to early September for groups and the general public. Victoria Island off Portage Bridge, Ottawa. Phone 613-564-9494. Toll-free 877-811-3233. http://www.aboriginalexperiences.com.
The Liberal Party dominated Canadian politics in the first half of the 20th century, led by two prominent prime ministers—Sir Wilfrid Laurier (the first French-speaking prime minister of Canada) and Mackenzie King (Canada's longest-serving prime minister). Laurier House, built in 1878, was originally purchased for Sir Wilfrid and later willed to King; it includes memorabilia from both men's lives, including King's crystal ball, which the noted spiritualist received as a gift but apparently never used. Open April to late May Monday-Friday 9 am-5 pm; late May to mid-October daily 9 am-5 pm; mid-October to April, reservations for groups of 10 or more only. Admission Can$3.45-$3.95. 335 Laurier Ave. E., Ottawa. Phone 613-992-8142. Toll-free 888-773-8888. http://www.pc.gc.ca/lhn-nhs/on/laurier/index_e.asp.
Notre Dame, Ottawa's oldest surviving church, was built on the site of Bytown's first bilingual Catholic chapel. It welcomes both French- and English-speaking worshippers. This 19th-century church has a spectacular sculpted interior. Intricately carved choir stalls, more than 200 statues of saints and trompe l'oeil pillars painted to resemble marble create the appearance of a medieval church. Monday 11:30 am-6 pm, Tuesday-Saturday 7:30 am-6 pm, Sunday 8 am-8 pm (no visits during weddings or funerals). Mid-May to mid-October, groups of 10 or more can arrange for 45-minute tours at 9 am and 1:30 and 3 pm. Free. 56 Guigues Ave. (corner of Sussex Drive, opposite the National Gallery), Ottawa. Phone 613-241-7496. http://www.notredame.ottawa.com.
Visible throughout downtown, the Gothic spires rising from "The Hill" mark the seat of Canada's federal government. The Centre Block is where the daily business of government takes place. You are welcome to watch the proceedings of the House of Commons and the Senate from their respective visitors' galleries. Don't miss visiting the Peace Tower above the Centre Block, which has an observation deck—the view of the Ottawa River and Gatineau is spectacular.
Another jewel of architecture is at the end of the Hall of Honour—the restored Library of Parliament. Outside, a series of walkways will take you past the Centennial Flame, as well as bronze statues of Queen Victoria, Queen Elizabeth II, many Canadian prime ministers and other celebrated figures.
On summer evenings, a free sound-and-light show depicts the history of Canada through images projected directly onto the Parliament Buildings. An information tent between the west and center blocks is open mid-May to late June, daily 9 am-5 pm; late June to early September, Monday-Friday 9 am-8 pm; weekends and holidays 9 am-5 pm (closed July 1). During the rest of the year, a visitors center operates at the public entrance, located just east of the main entrance to the Centre Block, underneath the Peace Tower. Free tours of Parliament Hill and the government buildings are offered year-round. Reservations required for groups of 10 or more. Arrive early to avoid long lines at security screening checkpoints. Wellington Street at O'Connor Street, Ottawa. Phone 613-992-4793 or National Capital Commission at 613-239-5000. Toll-free 866-599-4999 in Canada or 800-465-1867 (National Capital Commission). http://www.parl.gc.ca or http://www.canadascapital.gc.ca.
Constructed in 1838, this is the home to the governor-general of Canada (de facto head of state and the queen's representative), and it serves as the center of diplomatic ceremonies in Ottawa. A palatial estate of more than 79 acres/32 hectares, the hall offers tours throughout the year and skating during winter. The public may meet the governor-general at the New Year's Day levee (an open meeting) and at the June garden party. The grounds also contain the Canadian Heritage Gardens, where dozens of varieties of roses serve as a metaphor for Canada’s multicultural society. In addition, there is a visitors center and hourly changes of the ceremonial guard daily in summer. House tours are offered early July-early September daily; February, May, June, September and October on Saturday and Sunday; the rest of the year by appointment only. Grounds and art tours are also available. Hours vary. Reservations required for all grounds and art tours, and for house tours for groups of 10 or more. Free. 1 Sussex Drive, Ottawa. Phone 613-991-4422. Toll-free 866-842-4422. http://www.gg.ca.
The Supreme Court of Canada is a few minutes' walk from Parliament Hill. It reviews cases coming from provincial and territorial appellate courts as well as the Federal Court of Appeal in civil, criminal, constitutional and administrative law matters. Tours guided by law students are available continuously every day May-August and by appointment Monday-Friday the rest of the year 9 am-5 pm. Groups of 10 must reserve in advance year-round. Free. 301 Wellington St., Ottawa. Phone 613-995-4300. http://www.scc-csc.gc.ca.
You can purchase a Museum Pass for Can$30 (Can$75 for a family pass) that offers access to 10 of Ottawa's best museums for seven days. You'll save up to 50% off the price of individual admissions if you visit all 10. The Museum Pass is also good for 20% off theater, dance and orchestra performances at the National Arts Centre. Passes can be purchased at all 10 participating museums and are available to nonresidents only. http://www.virtualmuseum.ca/passport.
Located in one of the oldest structures in Ottawa (dating to 1827), this museum showcases the Victorian lifestyle through a series of exhibitions, programs and events. The parking there is only for handicapped visitors. The nearest public parking is several blocks away, and the museum is located at the bottom of a long hill. Open early April to mid-May Monday-Friday 10 am-2 pm, mid-May to mid-October daily 10 am-5 pm, mid-October to late November Monday-Friday 10 am-2pm; rest of the year by appointment only. Can$5 adults, Can$3 seniors and students, Can$2 children ages 4-10, free for children younger than 4. Between Parliament Hill and the Ottawa Locks on the Rideau Canal, Ottawa. Phone 613-234-4570. http://www.bytownmuseum.com.
This is the home of the legendary Silver Dart, the first aircraft to fly in Canada, in 1909. Dozens of aircraft line the
Walkway of Time, which provides visitors with a history of aviation. Interactive exhibits, wind tunnels, weapon systems, propellers and other activities chronicle developments in aviation technology. This museum is part of the Canada Science and Technology Museum, and it offers flights over Ottawa. Open May-early September daily 9 am-5 pm; early September-April Wednesday-Sunday 9 am-5 pm. Can$6 adults, Can$5 students and seniors, Can$3 children ages 4-15, free for children younger than 4, Can$14 families. Free entrance 4-5 pm. 11 Aviation Parkway, Ottawa. Phone 613-993-2010. Toll-free 800-463-2038. http://www.aviation.technomuses.ca.
The largest of its kind in the country, this museum chronicles Canadian technological development and features thousands of hands-on exhibitions. Artifacts include electronic musical instruments, the Canadarm space tool, a Gregorian reflecting telescope, an electron microscope, a flight simulator and logging machinery. Demonstrations of scientific principles (why it's possible to lie on a bed of nails, for instance) will impress children. Ask about the unique themed Sleepover Nights Program for groups and the Family Astronomy and Space workshops. Open September-April Tuesday-Sunday 9 am-5 pm; May-August daily 9 am-5 pm. Can$6 adults, Can$5 students and seniors, Can$3 children ages 4-14, free for children younger than 4, Can$14 families. 1867 St. Laurent Blvd., Ottawa. Phone 613-991-3044. Toll-free 866-442-4416. http://www.sciencetech.technomuses.ca.
Visitors can admire this museum's copper and limestone facade, designed by Metis architect Douglas Cardinal to resemble the geological formation of Canada. The museum looks at 1,000 years of Canadian civilization since before the Vikings arrived—don't miss the impressive collection of totem poles, the children's museum, the postal museum and the First Peoples Hall. There is also an IMAX/OMNIMAX theater there. Open July and August daily 9 am-6 pm (Thursday and Friday till 9 pm); May, June and September to mid-October daily 9 am-6 pm (Thursday till 9 pm); mid-October to April Tuesday-Sunday 9 am-5 pm (Thursday till 9 pm).
Note: The children's museum often closes earlier than the rest of the museum. Can$10 adults, Can$8 seniors, Can$8 students, Can$6 children ages 3-12; Can$25 for families. Free on Thursday after 4 pm. Packages are also available that include admission to the Canadian War Museum and the IMAX/OMNIMAX theater. 100 Laurier St. (across the river from Parliament Hill), Gatineau. Phone 819-776-7000. Toll-free 800-555-5621. http://www.civilization.ca.
More than 160,000 works make up this museum's permanent collection, which showcases the artistry of Canada's leading documentary and art photographers, including famous portrait photographs by Yousef Karsh.
Because of major construction nearby, the museum is closed for an indefinite period. Its exhibits are being held at its parent museum, the National Gallery of Canada. 1 Rideau Canal (next to the Fairmont Chateau Laurier Hotel), Ottawa. Phone 613-990-8257. http://www.cmcp.gallery.ca.
Canada's natural-history museum is housed in the historic Victoria Memorial Museum building, an elaborate castlelike structure. Permanent exhibits describe how geologic forces have shaped the country from the last Ice Age to the present. The museum is under renovation till 2010, but it's still open and several new galleries are already accessible. Early September-April Tuesday-Sunday 9 am-5 pm (Thursday till 8 pm); May-early September daily 9 am-6 pm (Wednesday and Thursday till 8 pm). Can$5 for all visitors older than 3, Can$13 for families, free for children younger than 3. Free Saturday 9 am-noon. 240 McLeod St., Ottawa. Phone 613-566-4700. Toll-free 800-263-4433. http://www.nature.ca.
The sloping roof of this museum is covered with grass and walking paths. The museum chronicles wars fought on Canadian soil. Exhibits include tanks, planes and other military vehicles, as well as a reconstructed World War I trench. Open May and June daily 9 am-6 pm (Thursday till 9 pm); July and August daily 9 am-6 pm (Thursday and Friday till 9 pm); September to mid-October daily 9 am-6 pm (Thursday till 9 pm); mid-October to April Tuesday-Sunday 9 am-5 pm (Thursday till 9 pm). Can$10 adults, Can$8 seniors, Can$8 students, Can$4 children ages 3-12; Can$25 for families. Free on Thursday after 4 pm. 1 Vimy Place (on LeBreton Flats just west of downtown), Ottawa. Phone 819-776-8600. Toll-free 800-555-5621. http://www.warmuseum.ca.
This museum houses the world's largest collection of Canadian art, including sections devoted to contemporary Inuit art, the Group of Seven and Emily Carr. It's also serving as temporary home for exhibitions by the Canadian Museum of Contemporary Photography while that building is closed because of nearby construction. The National Gallery also hosts traveling exhibitions. May-September daily 10 am-5 pm (Thursday till 8 pm), October-April Tuesday-Sunday 10 am-5 pm (Thursday till 8 pm). Can$6 adults, Can$5 students and seniors, Can$3 children ages 12-19, free for children younger than 12, Can$12 families. Free admission Thursday after 5 pm. Extra charge for special exhibits. 380 Sussex Drive, Ottawa. Phone 613-990-1985. Toll-free 800-319-2787. http://www.national.gallery.ca.
| Neighborhoods & Districts | Top |
The heart of old Ottawa has historic buildings, such as the Ottawa School of Art, and plenty of boutiques, friendly pubs and lively bistros. From spring through autumn, the district hosts a bustling farmers market—flowers, vegetables, maple-syrup products, crafts and more. On summer evenings the area hums with activity and live music. Bordered by Sussex Drive to the west, Rideau Street to the south, King Edward Avenue to the east and St. Patrick Street to the north. The eastern section, between Dalhousie Street and King Edward Avenue, can bit a bit dicey late at night. Phone 613-562-3325. http://www.byward-market.com.
In this neighborhood west of downtown, you will find Ottawa's most concentrated multicultural business area (including Chinatown). Vietnamese, Thai and Chinese products, crafts, potions and herbs abound, and there are plenty of opportunities to stop and savor the culinary delights of Asia. On Preston Street (also called Corso Italia) you'll find Little Italy, where the cafes and
pasticcerias entice visitors to stay and savor the food and ambience. The area is bounded by Bay Street to the east, the Queensway (Highway 417) to the south, Preston Street to the west and Somerset Street West to the north (with Little Italy continuing a few blocks south of the Queensway along Preston Street). Between Bay and Preston, Ottawa. http://www.ottawachinatown.ca and http://www.prestonstreet.com.
The redbrick Victorian homes of the late 19th and early 20th centuries give Ottawa's first suburban neighborhood a gentrified historic feel. Terraced row houses, extensive parks and sprawling Queen Anne-style homes add to the architectural diversity of the tree-lined streets. The retail section of Bank Street, the neighborhood's main thoroughfare, includes exclusive shops selling everything from exotic foods to hemp-based cosmetics. The Glebe is bounded by the Rideau Canal to the east and south, the Queensway (Highway 417) to the north and Bronson Avenue to the west. http://www.theglebeonline.com.
This up-and-coming neighborhood has become the place to go for outdoorsy types, with a half-dozen or more large outfitters interspersed among coffee bars, yoga studios, decor shops and antiques stores. It is also home to the Newport Restaurant, the headquarters of the tongue-in-cheek Elvis Sighting Society. On Richmond Road from Island Park Drive to Golden Avenue, Ottawa. http://www.westborovillage.com.
| Parks & Gardens | Top |
Ottawa is the only world capital to have a working farm at its core. In the heart of the capital is a sprawling experimental farm where the Canadian government does agricultural research. Paved and gravel paths lead through rolling, landscaped lawns and an extensive arboretum, and alongside the Rideau Canal. The Central Experimental Farm has an agricultural museum on the grounds, and barns that house domestic animals, some of which are rare breeds. Children will enjoy the petting area. OC Transpo Bus No. 3 from the Rideau Centre takes visitors to the farm and back. Open March-October daily 9 am-5 pm. The barns are open daily year-round. Can$6 adults, Can$5 students and seniors, Can$3 children, Can$13 families, free for children younger than 3. Prince of Wales Drive, Ottawa. Phone 613-991-3044. Toll-free 866-442-4416. http://www.agriculture.technomuses.ca.
Shrubs and trees from China, Germany and other countries are spread throughout 64 acres/26 hectares on the Central Experimental Farm, making it a favorite picnic site in the summer. The 8-acre/3-hectare garden immediately south of the traffic circle is popular with wedding parties for photographs amid the perennial collection, rock garden, sunken garden, annual garden and collection of hedges. The annuals garden includes the best new annuals released in North America each year. Daily dawn to dusk. Free. Prince of Wales Drive, Ottawa. http://www.friendsofthefarm.ca.
A winding nature trail on the Central Experimental Farm leads through 17 acres/7 hectares interspersed with trees, flowers, a meadow for butterflies, a pond and an interpretive center. The loss of many plant and animal species over the years inspired members of the Ottawa Field-Naturalists' Club to design a garden that shows how it's possible to turn a backyard into a wildlife-friendly space. A free trail guide is available. The garden itself is always open; the interpretive center is staffed Sunday noon-4 pm and possibly other times, depending on volunteer availability. Daily 9 am-4 pm. Free. Prince of Wales Drive, Ottawa. Phone 613-234-6767. http://www.ofnc.ca/fletcher.php.
Just 15 minutes from Parliament Hill, this 138-sq mi/356-sq km park offers an escape from all things urban. With overnight campsites, large lakes, and miles/kilometers of hiking and biking trails—which turn into skiing trails in the winter—Gatineau Park is a wonderful place to spend an afternoon or weekend. The park includes the lakeside estate of former Prime Minister Mackenzie King—the park's most important cultural attraction. Visitors can tour King's lakeside cottage and manor, and then stroll through his ersatz Grecian "ruins"—bits of demolished modern buildings scattered picturesquely around the grounds—or take high tea at the manor. The visitors center is in the picturesque village of Chelsea. Open daily year-round, though some road access to the park's interior closes November-April to keep visitors from getting stuck in the snow. Admission to the park is free; parking at any of the beaches Can$8.90 per day; parking at the estate Can$7.90 per day; individual campsites Can$25.75 per night plus Can$4.95 reservation fee; adult day pass to use the cross-country ski trails in winter Can$9.90. 33 Scott Road, Chelsea. Phone 819-827-2020. Toll-free 800-465-1867. http://www.canadascapital.gc.ca.
This downtown park was Ottawa's first, created in 1875 as a place to escape the rigors of city life. There are views of the Rideau Canal locks, the cliffs of Parliament Hill and the Ottawa River. Located directly behind the Fairmont Chateau Laurier and next to the National Gallery of Canada (within walking distance of the ByWard Market), Major's Hill hosts many city festivals and is the best vantage point for local fireworks displays.
Ottawa is an outdoor enthusiast's haven, possessing an amazing 100-mi/160-km network of paved trails that serve as walking, bicycling and in-line skating paths in summer and, in winter, cross-country ski paths. Within the city there are many parks and open spaces for lounging and people-watching. Kayakers frequent the rapids of the Ottawa River underneath the Champlain Bridge, and the Rideau River and canal are popular spots for flat-water paddling.
There are numerous beaches in Ottawa and across the Ottawa River in Gatineau Park. Ottawa's supervised beaches include Britannia Bay, Mooney's Bay and Westboro—all can be reached by bike path. In Gatineau Park are Meech Lake, Lac Philippe and Lac La Peche. Water quality is checked regularly. Beaches are occasionally closed for a brief period, usually after heavy rainfall. Admission is free to the Ottawa beaches, but in Gatineau Park entry by car (which is the main method, unless you’re a keen cyclist) is Can$8.90.
This beach has picnic tables, a playground, snack bar and boardwalk. Carling Avenue, near Pinecrest Avenue, Ottawa.
The two large day beaches have picnic facilities, including barbecues, as well as canoes, kayaks, other boats and mountain bikes for rent. A third beach, Smith Beach, is for campers only. Off Highway 366, Gatineau Park, Gatineau.
Meech is the smallest of the Gatineau Park lakes open for swimming, and it's the closest to the city. Enter near the Visitors Centre on Scott Road, Chelsea.
This long and wide sandy beach along the Rideau River is the site of the annual HOPE Volleyball SummerFest, but you can rent volleyball nets and balls all summer long. It's also an ideal place to play Frisbee or soccer. There's a snack bar, picnic tables on the grass, a play area and changing rooms. HOPE is a community fundraising organization for local charities. Riverside Drive (just past Hog's Back Road), Ottawa.
The smallest of Ottawa's sandy beaches, Westboro is a launching site for canoists and kayakers paddling the Ottawa River. Ottawa River Parkway at Kitchissippi Lookout, Ottawa.
The Capital Pathway is a 100-mi/160-km trail for cycling, walking and in-line skating that connects museums, parks and historic sites. From Victoria Day weekend (late May) to Labor Day weekend (early September), 34 mi/55 km of roads (including the Ottawa River Parkway, Colonel By Drive and the Rockcliffe Parkway) are closed off for activities Sunday 9 am-1 pm. Gatineau Park roads are closed 6 am-11 am (with one section near Meech Lake closed 6 am-1 pm). For more information, call the National Capital Commission at 613-239-5000 or toll-free at 800-465-1867 or visit the Web site, http://www.canadascapital.gc.ca/biking. The NCC also provides an excellent complimentary map of bike trails in the region. For information about biking on the Quebec side of the river, call Outaouais Tourism at 819-778-2222, or toll-free 800-265-7822.
Rents traditional bicycles, electric bicycles and inline skates. 5 Hawthorne Ave. (near the Pretoria Bridge), Ottawa. Phone 613-567-8180. http://www.cycosport.ca.
Located across the river in Gatineau Park, this shop specializes in mountain bikes, including cross-country and freeride models. They also have road bikes and rollerskis for rent. Advance reservations are recommended. 148 Old Chelsea Road, Chelsea. Phone 819-827-5340. Toll-free 800-345-4734. http://www.gregchristies.com.
The largest bike rental company in the city, RentABike carries more than 200 bikes, varying from the standard city bikes to high-end racing bikes. The company also offers escorted tours. Helmets provided. Beside the Rideau Canal (on the bank opposite the National Arts Centre), Ottawa. Phone 613-241-4140. http://www.rentabike.ca.
| Boating & Sailing | Top |
With the Ottawa and Rideau rivers and the Rideau Canal flowing by downtown Ottawa, the city is a haven for pleasure boats. In Gatineau Park, you can also rent canoes, kayaks, rowboats and pedal boats at Lac Philippe and canoes and rowboats at Lac La Peche. Less than a two-hour trip from the city, a number of rafting operations take adventurous travelers through the whitewater of the Ottawa River.
Rent canoes, kayaks, rowboats and pedal boats at the marina there.
White-water rafting enthusiasts will enjoy the variety and quality of locations not far from Ottawa. Provides door-to-door transportation and runs a hostel, as well. There's a second location in Pembroke, Ontario. No. 3 Ch. Esprit, Davidson. Toll-free 800-596-7238. http://www.espritrafting.com.
Offers rafting from high-adventure to family levels, plus a wide range of outdoor activities and packages. Lodging and equipment also available. 40 OWL Lane, Foresters Falls. Toll-free 800-461-7238. http://www.owl-mkc.ca.
A complete range of outdoor activities is available, including family whitewater rafting packages. Kayakers are included, too. 1260 Grants Settlement Road, Foresters Falls. Toll-free 800-267-8504. http://www.riverrunners.com.
Rents canoes and kayaks, as well as camping equipment. 1960 Scott St., Ottawa. Phone 613-722-4229. http://www.trailhead.ca.
This group pioneered rafting on the Ottawa River in the 1970s. Offers various rafting and kayaking packages, plus resort options. 503 Rafting Road, Foresters Falls. Phone 613-646-2291. Toll-free 888-723-8669. http://www.wildernesstours.com.
This course is both scenic and challenging. Greens fees Can$65 for 18 holes, Can$35 for nine holes. Cart rental Can$32 for 18 holes, Can$16 for nine holes; Club rental Can$30. 1755 Old Carp Road, Kanata. Phone 613-839-5885. http://www.lochmarch.com.
This course, designed by Robert Trent Jones Jr., appeals to both beginners and more discriminating golfers. Greens fees for The Marshes course range Can$50-$110, including reduced rates for seniors and rate changes at different times of day. Fees include rental of golf cart with GPS caddy system. Greens fees for the MarchWood short course Can$25 for 18 holes, Can$15 for nine holes, half price for children younger than 16. Club rental Can$50. 320 Terry Fox Drive, Kanata. Phone 613-271-3530. Toll-free 888-826-2220. http://www.brookstreethotel.com/golf.
In winter, the Rideau Canal is transformed into the world's longest skateway, with nearly 5 mi/8 km of ice. You can rent skates at booths set up along the canal and at Dows Lake Pavilion at the southern end of the skateway, near Carleton University (phone 613-239-5000; toll-free 800-465-1867. http://www.canadascapital.gc.ca/skateway). But there’s more to scenic skating in Ottawa than the canal.Skaters are also welcome at Government House, where a public skating rink is created every season (phone 613-993-8200; toll-free 800-465-6890. http://www.gg.ca).
Cross-country and downhill skiing are both popular winter activities. Cross-country enthusiasts ski on the bike paths in the winter and also in Gatineau Park. Downhill skiers and snowboarders will find terrain to suit them in Gatineau Park and at several others areas close to Ottawa.
On the Ontario side of the river and about an hour west of Ottawa, this ski area has 22 runs and a vertical drop of 760 ft/232 m. Offers four-season activities. County Road 508, Calabogie. Toll-free 800-669-4861. http://www.calabogie.com.
Edelweiss has 18 runs and is geared toward families; offers lessons and equipment rental for all ages. It's about an hour's drive north of Ottawa. Highway 105 North (near Wakefield), Wakefield. Phone 819-459-2328. http://www.edelweissvalley.com.
Offers 125-mi/200-km of groomed trails, plus eight heated shelters when you need a break. The Visitors Centre has trail maps and a place to wax your skis. For downhill skiing and snowboarding, Camp Fortune in Gatineau Park (phone 819-827-1717; http://www.campfortune.com) is only a 15-minute drive from Ottawa. Day passes range Can$9.90-$6.90, and Can $21.80 for families. 33 Scott Road, Chelsea. Phone 819-827-2020 for the Visitors Centre. Toll-free 800-465-1867.
This area, less than a 30-minute drive from Ottawa, draws beginners to experts with 19 runs and a vertical drop of 541 ft/165 m. Toll-free 888-282-2722. http://www.montcascades.ca.
This area, north of Ottawa, has more than 20 trails and the region's highest vertical drop of 1,250 ft/381 m. Offers golf in the non-skiing months. Highway 105 North, about an hour's drive from Hull (near Wakefield), Wakefield. Phone 819-467-5200. Toll-free 800-567-1256. http://www.montstemarie.com.
This area offers a dozen 12 runs. Equipment rentals and lessons are available, and the area is geared toward families. 65 Chemin Burnside, Wakefield. Toll-free 877-867-5243.
This is the winter operation for a summer whitewater rafting operation. Offers cross-country ski adventures and rustic accommodations a couple of hours' drive from the city. 503 Rafting Road, Foresters Falls. Toll-free 888-723-8669. http://www.wildernesstours.com.
| Other Options | Top |
For those who dream of lurking in the treetops like Tarzan, this attraction lets you explore the forest on a variety of hanging walkways and bridges. At the end of the two-hour tour, you'll squeal back to earth via a zip line. Closed-toe shoes required. Children younger than 18 must have a guardian's signature. Some physical restrictions apply. Open 9 am to dusk, Saturday and Sunday early May to mid-June and mid-September to early November; daily mid-June to mid-September. Last tour leaves two and a half hours before dusk. 300 Dunlop Road, Chelsea. Phone 819-827-1717 or 819-827-5517. http://www.campfortune.com.
Offers one drop of 200 ft/62 m into a circular amphitheater of limestone with a deep pool at the bottom (not for the faint of heart). Or you can try Ripride, a 1,015-ft/309-m cable slide with an average speed of 51 mph/85 kph. Be aware that there are weight restrictions for this adventure. Morrison's Quarry, Wakefield. Phone 819-459-3714. Toll-free 877-828-8170. http://www.bungee.ca.
Provides a range of activities including hiking, obstacle runs, spelunking and zip-trek lines in a unique aerial park with more than 80 suspension bridges—some up to 6,560 ft/2,000 m long. 255 Route Principale, Val-des-Monts. Toll-free 877-457-4033. http://www.aventurelafleche.ca.
Plenty of area hills—such as the ones at Vincent Massey Park and the Dominion Arboretum—are ideal for winter tobogganing. Bundle up well. Phone 613-239-5000. Toll-free 800-465-1867. http://www.canadascapital.gc.ca/skateway.
The once-stuffy Canadian capital now has a lively nightlife. Options increase in summer, when sidewalk cafes and bistros in the trendy ByWard Market and Elgin Street districts fill up with locals and tourists alike. Outdoor summer concerts take place in Major's Hill Park, Confederation Park and Festival Plaza in front of City Hall. In addition to a variety of live-music venues, street performers often provide free shows for passers-by (tips are appreciated).
In winter, you may have to look a little harder for something to do, but a quick gander at the weekly XPress, the local free alternative paper, will turn up options. So, too, will the French Voir weekly newspaper or the monthly Where magazine. All three can be found throughout Ottawa. Gamblers can head for the Casino du Lac-Leamy across the river in Gatineau, Quebec. Closing time is 2 am in both Ottawa and the Hull sector of Gatineau (the area closest to downtown Ottawa). Elsewhere in Gatineau—such as the Aylmer sector—closing time is 3 am, as it is in the rest of the province of Quebec.
| Bars, Taverns & Pubs | Top |
This place was named after one of the fathers of Canadian Confederation. Features a bar actually imported from Ireland. Great Guinness steak and Finnegan's fry. Regular performances of Irish and Celtic music. There's a second location at 360 Moodie Drive in suburban Bells Corners. Sunday-Tuesday 11 am-1 am, Wednesday-Saturday 9 am-2 am. 44 Sparks St. (near Parliament Hill), Ottawa. Phone 613-230-4433. http://www.darcymcgees.ca.
This British-style pub overlooks the Chateau Laurier and has stained-glass windows and a patio that draws the young and the restless in the summertime. Try the bangers and mash or the Essex seafood medley. Open Monday-Wednesday and Saturday 11 am-midnight, Thursday 11 am-2 am, Friday 11 am-1 am, Sunday 11 am-10 pm. 50 Rideau St. (in the Rideau Centre shopping mall), Ottawa. Phone 613-234-5544. http://www.elephantcastle.com.
This Irish brewpub is a gem in the Irish Village, which is made up of four charming pubs. Enjoy the hearty grub, nearly 20 beers on tap and live music Thursday-Saturday (occasionally on other nights as well). Daily from 11 am. 67 Clarence St. (ByWard Market), Ottawa. Phone 613-562-0674. http://www.irishvillage.ca.
Always crowded before 10 pm, loud and lively, this is the place to pause before a concert or play and a favorite meeting place after the show ends. Swing orchestra on Wednesday, DJ Thursday-Sunday (all-request nights on Thursday, hip-hop on Sunday). Daily from 11 am, nightclub from 8 pm Tuesday-Saturday, from 9 pm Sunday. 340 Elgin St. (Centretown), Ottawa. Phone 613-232-5771. http://www.maxwellsbistro.com.
This fun pub is home of the East Coast Kitchen Party, a maritime tradition transposed to Ottawa. Plan on drinking, carousing and dancing a jig around the old wood stove to the music of various East Coast musicians. Live music Thursday-Saturday. 111 Parent St. (ByWard Market), Ottawa. Phone 613-244-3278. http://www.pier21pub.com.
| Dance & Nightclubs | Top |
Dance to the rhythm of salsa and merengue. Free lessons Thursday and Friday 8-10 pm. Open Wednesday-Saturday 8 pm-2 am. Free on Friday before 9 pm and Saturday before 10 pm; cover charge at other times. 110 York St. (ByWard Market), Ottawa. Phone 613-562-0698. http://www.calienteclub.net.
It's a bar, it's a restaurant, it's a club, it's a little of everything—but it's not your typical Chinese noodle house. Drop in for the Thai and Chinese food, then stick around for such events as monthly Disco Bingo. DJs on Thursday, karaoke on Saturday. Live bands, art openings and other events. Cover charge varies but is usually moderate. 651 Somerset St. W. (Somerset Heights), Ottawa. Phone 613-233-4001. http://www.shanghaiottawa.com.
Everybody is welcome at this gay bar, which features loud dance music most nights. Wednesday is karaoke night; Thursday is men's night; Friday is women's night. There is a drag show on Saturday. It's packed on weekends. Located on the second floor of a municipal heritage site building overlooking the market. No cover. 41 York St. (ByWard Market), Ottawa. Phone 613-789-1624. http://www.thelookoutbar.com.
In the heart of the ByWard Market, Touche provides an excellent place to relax and unwind. The atmosphere is sleek and trendy, with lots of clever lighting. Urbane young professionals congregate here for Friday after-work drinks. DJs Thursday-Sunday. Open daily from 11:30 pm. 87 Clarence St. (ByWard Market), Ottawa. Phone 613-241-8787. http://www.touchelounge.ca.
Local and loud characterize the bands that perform there on weeknights, although there is a range of music available—country rock, reggae, hip-hop, metal, indie and a number of DJs. Touring bands are booked for weekends. Many locals club-hop between Babylon and Barrymore's next door. Cover charge up to Can$20, depending on the band. 317 Bank St. (Centretown), Ottawa. Phone 613-594-0003. http://www.babylonclub.ca.
This restored historic venue is an excellent place to catch Canadian and international touring acts, including rock bands, jazz ensembles and many other styles of music. Five different levels in this club keep things interesting, as well. Nightly from 8. Buy advance tickets (Can$5-$35) on the club's Web site. 323 Bank St. (Centretown), Ottawa. Phone 613-233-0307. http://www.barrymores.on.ca.
Dine on appetizers or a full-course meal, or simply go for a drink and listen to jazz in this casual restaurant. Local musicians, pianists, guitarists, bassists and singers, as well as guest artists entertain. Thursday-Saturday evenings, hours vary by season. No cover. 199 Bank St. (Centretown), Ottawa. Phone 613-565-0657. http://www.cafeparadiso.ca.
With a capacity of just under 500, this venue almost qualifies as intimate in rock-club terms, making it a great spot to catch nationally touring acts ranging from alt-country to hip-hop. Tickets available through TicketMaster—buy early to avoid disappointment. 128 York St. (ByWard Market), Ottawa. Phone 613-789-9922. http://www.capitalmusichall.ca.
Sleek, chic and almost unclassifiable, the Mercury offers something for just about every urbanite: DJ nights, poetry readings, film showings, fashion shows, art exhibits, and live music from flamenco and Afrobeats to jazz and rock. Grab a martini and get in the groove. 56 ByWard Market (upstairs), Ottawa. Phone 613-789-5324. http://www.mercurylounge.net.
This second-floor spot is Ottawa's coolest blues bar, where you'll also occasionally hear jazz, swing and other styles. Locals flock there to hear great national and international musicians. Opening hours vary (call ahead), and musicians play late into the night. Live music daily. Cover varies but can be as much as Can$15. 76 Murray St. (ByWard Market), Ottawa. Phone 613-241-5123. http://www.therainbow.ca.
| Performing Arts | Top  |
The city's main performing-arts venue is the National Arts Centre on Confederation Square, overlooking the Rideau Canal and near the Fairmont Chateau Laurier Hotel. Local and traveling dance and theater groups perform at Arts Court, housed in a former courthouse. Ottawa's professional theater, the Great Canadian Theatre Company, performs almost year-round. On the edge of Sandy Hill, the Ottawa Little Theatre operates year-round, presenting plays written by local and international playwrights and performed by amateur actors. Kanata Theatre offers excellent amateur productions during the fall, winter and spring. In summer, the Odyssey Theatre company performs commedia dell'arte-style performances in Strathcona Park, overlooking the Rideau River in Sandy Hill.
This is Ottawa's oldest professional theater group, and it performs almost year-round. Many of the plays are Canadian and feature locally based professional actors. Fare tends to be cutting edge and socially conscious. In 2007, the GCTC—as locals call it—moved into a sparkling new home in the Irving Greenberg Theatre Centre, which includes gallery space for paintings and other artworks. The building also hosts concerts and other non-theatrical performances. 1233 Wellington St. (Wellington Village), Ottawa. Phone 613-236-5196. http://www.gctc.ca.
| Ticket Brokers | Top |
This is the largest ticket broker for Ottawa's performing-arts events and venues. Phone 613-755-1111. http://www.ticketmaster.ca.