The Canadian War Museum is a national museum that documents Canada’s military history and its influence on the nation. The museum's exceptional exhibitions tell about Canada’s rich military past, spanning a period from centuries ago to the present day. Among other exhibits presented here are personal accounts of people who took part in action as well as those who waited for them back home, outlining Canada’s engagement in various wars, peacekeeping missions and other military conflicts.

Originated in 1880, the museum houses a collection of military artifacts in the possession of the Canadian federal government. The Canadian War Museum was officially established in 1942. It has its own modern conservation laboratories and storage facilities to preserve, repair and store the items of historical importance.

The Canadian War Museum has a vast permanent exhibition comprising several galleries and a number of smaller display spaces. Its four main exhibitions include “Battleground” which covers the pre-Confederation period covering military confrontation with Natives, the conflicts between the British and the French, and those between the British and the Americans; “For Crown and Country” deals with Canada’s early days wars up until 1931; “Forged in Fire” is dedicated to the Second World War and Canadian involvement therein; and “A Violent Peace” which covers the post World War Two period, including the Korean War, the Cold War, and recent peacekeeping operations.

For those interested in arms, LeBreton Gallery is a definite must-see, featuring a Voodoo jet, tanks, artillery, and a wide range of military vehicles. The Canadian War Museum also includes over 13,000 works of art from World War I to the present day. There is a boutique at the Museum which offers a variety of souvenirs and gift items for all tastes and budgets.

The museum also houses a Memorial Hall that contains the headstone of the Unknown Soldier from the First World War. On Remembrance Day, which falls on 11th November each year, the headstone is directly lit by the sun at 11 a.m.

In 2005, the museum was moved to its current location. Acknowledged for its modern architectural design, the building has won several awards. The Canadian War Museum is a completely new attraction and the one you must not skip on your trip to Ottawa.

Why You Should Visit:
Full of personal accounts and descriptions of various wars and battles. Overall, a more adult-oriented museum, but if you do have kids, you can walk through with them and have them try the more interactive and "reconstruction"-type sites to keep them amused.

Tip:
If you're not sure this is for you try visiting for free from 5-8 pm on a Thursday, but it won't be enough time!
The museum has a very good cafeteria-style restaurant and in good weather, you can picnic outside on the beautiful grounds that overlook the Ottawa river.
And if the weather is decent, be sure to make the trek to the lookout on the green roof.

The Canadian Museum of History, formerly the Canadian Museum of Civilization, is the country's most popular and most visited museum. Located in the Hull sector of Gatineau, it is devoted entirely to collecting, studying, preserving, and displaying material objects that highlight the human history of Canada, as well as the cultural multeity of its people.

The Museum of Civilization is particularly famous for its permanent galleries reflecting 20,000 years of the history of mankind. The architecture and spectacular riverside setting of the museum also add to its appeal. There are special exhibitions on Canadian and other cultures and civilizations, both extinct and present. The museum is also a major research institution and one of North America's oldest cultural establishments with roots stretching as far back as 1856.

The Museum's permanent exposition comprises four galleries, such as the Grand Hall, the First Peoples Hall, the Canada Hall and Face to Face: The Canadian Personalities Hall. The Grand Hall is the Museum's architectural centerpiece and has a wall with a view of the Ottawa River and Parliament Hill. Opposite to it, on another wall, is a color photograph depicting a woods scene, considered to be the largest color photo in the world. The Museum's top floor is taken by the newest Face To Face exhibition. Opened on 29 June 2007, it celebrates personalities whose vision and deeds have made a noteworthy impact on Canada and its people. Among them are authors, artists, businesspeople, explorers, activists, military commanders and politicians.

In order to span 20,000 years of human history, the museum's space has been divided into three major zones, namely: "An Aboriginal Presence", "An Ancient Bond with the Land" and "Arrival of Strangers - The Last 500 Years". The latter zone examines the aboriginal history of Canada from the time of the first European encounter through today. Also presented here is the Quilt of Belongings, the world's largest piece of textile art, dedicated to Canada.

The Canadian Museum of Civilization is by far one of the main tourist destinations in Ottawa, receiving more than one million visitors per year. Culture has never been so fascinating!

Why You Should Visit:
One of Canada's best museums! The building's architecture & artifacts inside are amazing, and the views across the river are not to be missed.

Tip:
If you want to take a break and a breath of fresh air, a hand stamp will allow access throughout the whole day.

Major's Hill Park is one of the most distinguished parks in downtown Ottawa. It is situated above the Rideau Canal at the spot where it empties into the Ottawa River. Because of its prime location, Major’s Hill Park is the site for many of Ottawa's exciting events such as Canada Day celebrations on July 1, annual Tulip Festival in May and February’s Winterlude Festival.

Laid out in 1874, the park was originally named after Colonel By, the engineer who built the Rideau Canal, and had his residence located on the site of the park. After his succession by Major Daniel Bolton, the name was changed to Major's Hill Park in 1832. In 1849, By's residence was destroyed by fire; the ruins of it are still visible today.

The National Capital Commission manages the park and has placed many interpretative panels displaying historical information in the northwest corner of the park. Dozens of artists come to Major’s Hill regularly to sell their works – paintings, clothing, woodworking, pottery, glass and jewelry – in the designated area called Artisans in the Park. During the Tulip Festival, the International Friendship Village presents countries that have made a mark in the cultivation of tulips, among them Turkey, the Netherlands, and Japan. Many varieties of food are also available in the park, complete with many crafts activities to engage in.

Concert Stage operates day and night. During the day, it is open to all visitors free of charge. In the evening, the Concert Stage features big-name artists and requires a ticket. The Family Zone, located at the north end of the park, abounds in various activities and teems with kids.

Major’s Hill Park is a peaceful retreat in the middle of the city. With its grand trees and pathways, it offers picturesque views of Ottawa’s major sites such as the Rideau Canal, the Parliament Buildings, the National Art Gallery, the Ottawa River, Sussex Drive and ByWard Market. It is a great place to walk during the summer months, enjoy ice cream from the street vendors, or sit on one of the many benches and soak up the moments of tranquillity. It is also a great urban picnic spot to be found in a close proximity to some of Ottawa's best restaurants and shops.

Why You Should Visit:
Great location during the summer while festivals are going on and a sought-after place to watch fireworks. Lots of access point and parking nearby.

Tip:
Use this park to explore the shores of the river.
Having a picnic with family with children is a good idea.
Vantage points for seeing Parliament buildings and the National Gallery are stupendous.

Rideau Canal was designated as a national historic site in 1925. In 2007 it was added to the list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Though it was originally built as a precaution in case a war was fought with the United States, the Rideau Canal is mostly used for cruises, boat tours and fishing.

Visitors to Ottawa can go to Rideau Canal National Historic Site to relax, look at scenery or go for a walk. Camping, biking and hiking are all popular activities at the historic site. An indoor visitor center is open Monday through Friday. It is a three-story building that introduces tourists to the history of the region. In particular, visitors can learn about how the canal was built. It also includes a children's area with interactive exhibits.

Ottawa vacationers who travel with families will find Rideau Canal National Historic Site to be a particularly good place to stop. The Rideau Canal Xplorers program provides interactive booklets to children age six to 11. They will search for clues as they follow the map. At the end of their journey they receive a souvenir to commemorate the exploration. Younger children can join Club Parka. This activity offers stories and prizes for children ages three to six.

Rideau Canal is not just a summertime hot spot. Winter visitors to Ottawa can enjoy the world's largest skating rink in January and February. A number of other winter activities take place at the historic area, though these are subject to change depending on the weather conditions.

Why You Should Visit:
- To see a one of the great outdoor marvels of Ottawa
- To learn about the engineering feats that were accomplished when building the canal

Tips:
The visitor center is open Monday through Friday from 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM. It is free to the public.

The Canadian Museum of Nature is a natural history museum in Ottawa. Built between 1905 and 1911, the museum is housed in a beautiful building that looks like a castle. Its collections highlight all aspects of the intersection between human society and nature, from gardening to gene-splicing.

Officially known as the Victoria Memorial Museum Building, the Canadian Museum of Nature stands on McLeod Street in Ottawa, and represents both a national monument and a landmark.

Throughout its history, the Museum's building has been a residing place of several notable tenants. In 1916, it served as an emergency headquarters for the Canadian government when the Parliament Buildings were destroyed by a great fire. From 1916 to 1919, the affairs of the government were run from this site until the new Parliament building was completed in 1922. In 1919, after the death of the former prime minister, Sir Wilfrid Laurier, his body was laid in the auditorium.

Three major museums stemmed from this castle. However, since 1988, it has been exclusively accommodating the Canadian Museum of Nature.

Designed by architect David Ewart, this enormous castle-like stone edifice represents a marvelous example of early 20th-century architecture in Ottawa. David Ewart created several similar buildings in the city. Three hundred skilled stonemasons were brought from Scotland specially for this project, the architectural style of which is sometimes described as Scottish baronial. Ewart, who went to Britain to study the architecture of Hampton Court and Windsor Castle, had incorporated their designs in this castle.

Unfortunately, the tall tower sited in front of the building had to be taken down in 1915 due to a concern that its foundation could not support the weight. A major renovation of the building commenced in 2004 and lasted until 2010. A lightweight glass "lantern" took the place of the heavy tower, removed in 1915. The entire building was closed on 26 April 2010 for final changes; the newly renovated museum re-opened its doors on 22 May 2010.

There are roughly ten million specimens of animals, plants and minerals displayed in the Museum of Nature, which are stored there not only for exhibition purposes but also as a sort of scientific yardstick against which all the country's biological and mineralogical research is measured.

In 1841, Queen Victoria issued a grant of £1500 for the "creation of the Geological and Natural History Survey of the Province of Canada." Since then, the institution has garnered a wide range of specimens on virtually every aspect of Canada's natural sciences.

The museum boasts a rich fossil gallery, featuring fossils of the early animals. Its main emphasis is laid upon the extinction of dinosaurs and the ensued emergence of mammals. There are a number of complete skeletons of dinosaurs on display.

Most galleries are fitted with small theatres that demonstrate short, 5 to 10 minute, films about the gallery so as to give visitors an idea what's inside.

Why You Should Visit:
Enjoyable and entertaining for all ages – there is something to stimulate every sense and keep everyone engaged.
A restaurant, cloakroom, gift shop, parking and picnic areas are also available.

Tip:
If you would prefer to only visit the special exhibition and not pay to see the permanent galleries, consider visiting on a Thursday evening.
General admission is free on Thursdays from 5-8 pm (the fee for the special exhibition would still apply).

The capital city of Canada is home to Parliament, which is located directly in the center of the city. Resting on the bank of the Ottawa River, Parliament Hill is a series of Gothic Revival style buildings that date to the mid 19th century. The Parliament Buildings are made up of the East Block, West Block and Centre Block.

The Centre Block contains the House of Commons, the Senate Chamber, Confederation Hall and the Hall of Honor. Each of these areas, along with other part of the Centre Block, are decorated with carvings, stone arches, stained glass windows, cathedral ceilings and marble floors. Visitors are welcome in the Centre Block. Guided tours are offered for free every day of the year. Each tour includes access to Peace Tower, which stands proudly in the middle of the building.

The East Block and the Library of Parliament are the only buildings that are original parliamentary buildings. The East Block contains offices that are currently used by parliament. The East Block is free to tour in July and August. The West Block also contains offices for parliament and a branch of the Library of Parliament. However, the West Block is not open for public tours.

The Parliament Buildings are only one part of Parliament Hill. Tourists also visit the area to see the numerous statues and monuments on the grounds. Statues of royal figures like Queen Victoria and Queen Elizabeth II share space with statues of Canadian prime ministers like John A. Macdonald, Wilfrid Laurier and Alexander Mackenzie.

Tourists should also keep their eyes out for the War of 1812 Monument, the Victoria Tower Bell, the Candian Police Memorium, the Centennial Flame and a statue in honor of Sir Galahad.

Why You Should Visit:
- To admire the Gothic Architecture of the Canadian Parliament
- To tour the center of Canadian democracy

Tips:
Guided tours must be booked in advance. Reserve tickets online through the Parliament of Canada website.

Founded by Lt-Col. John By in 1826, ByWard Market is one of the largest and oldest public markets in the Canadian capital, commonly regarded as the birthplace of Ottawa. John By, responsible for engineering the Rideau Canal, laid out the market plan. While working on the town grid, he arranged for George and York Streets to be extra wide. The aim behind this was to make way for the horse-drawn carriages that daily transported grocery to the market.

ByWard has largely preserved its historical Victorian heritage. Since the 1840s, it has been a major commercial hub. Today, ByWard Market attracts tourists and locals alike.

Famous for its chic boutiques, high-end restaurants and glamourous nightclubs, the ByWard Market area only two-three decades ago was mostly a blue-collar Lower Town district inhabited by workers of Irish and French descent, predominantly lumbermen, supplying construction materials for the canal works in Hull.

Greatly adapted to the trends of today's Canadian society, ByWard Market is a prominent tourist destination in Ottawa. It is the foremost place for eating out, shopping, and entertainment, dotted with numerous restaurants and bars that have mushroomed in recent years. Swarming with street performers also, it is one of the liveliest places in the city, seeing on average 50,000 visitors each weekend during the summer. There are more than 260 stalls held by local farmers and artisans along with the stands of over 500 businesses. Other amenities found in the area include a community center, child care facilities, schools, parks and places of worship.

Why You Should Visit:
Touristy area which on a good day is very crowded but still fun to enjoy the different stores and eateries.
Amazing bakery, cheese shops, maple syrup and candies, as well as the oldest bar in Ontario...

Tip:
Make sure you taste the famous beaver-tails – unless you're a weight-watcher, of course! :)

Set in the place where the first Catholic chapel once stood, Notre-Dame Basilica is the oldest church in Ottawa that has survived for many centuries. In 1978, the Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica of Ottawa was officially marked as a historic building by the City Council.

In 1832, a small wooden church, known as Saint Jacques Church, was erected on the site. In 1841 it was demolished with the plan of being replaced by a larger church. The latter was designed in a Neo-classical style by Antoine Robillard and Father Cannon. After the completion of the church's lower section, the construction was handed over to Father Telmon who redesigned it in a more famous Neo-Gothic style. As a result, the building features a combination of styles: Neo-classical in the lower section and Neo-Gothic in the rest of it.

The interior of the church is more brightly painted and more elaborately decorated than the exterior. There are superb stained glass windows and a large number of statues of different religious persons, the most notable of which is the gold-plated statue of Madonna with twin spires. The church and its characteristic architectural features are clearly visible from the nearby Parliament Hill.

Among the notable events that have taken place at Notre-Dame Basilica are the funeral ceremonies of Governor General Georges Vanier and Prime Minister Sir Wilfrid Laurier. Visitors are free to enter the church and offer their prayers during the week. Many of the visitors, however, are attracted by the majestic grandeur of the building itself.

Why You Should Visit:
There is no charge to enter and you can have a free English/French tour of the church both upper and down in the hall with another chapel (check out the schedule online).

Tip:
Pay attention to the details of things such as the marble pillars, which are actually made of wood made to look like marble.

The National Gallery of Canada is one of the most acclaimed art institutions in the world and contains the most exceptional collection of artworks. Designed by Moshe Safdie, the Gallery building is one of the most beautiful in Ottawa. Completed in 1988, it houses a huge and diverse collection of paintings, drawings and other works of art, created by both Canadian and prominent European masters.

For years, Canadians had wanted a national gallery of their own where they could display Canadian art, as well as preserve, learn and educate people about their country’s cultural heritage. In the course of the centuries, the country has accumulated wonderful works of art from around the globe – sculptures, paintings, photographs etc. – belonging to various historical periods.

A tour of the Gallery reveals how it came into being as such a magnificent cultural institution. Among other interesting things, The National Gallery presents a captivating story of Canadian Civilization in the form of visual arts. From here, one can also enjoy a stunning view of the Ottawa River and the skyline of the Canadian capital.

In 2000, the National Gallery was chosen by the Royal Architectural Institute of Canada as one of the top 500 buildings created in the country over the past millennium. Many exhibitions are hosted by the Gallery in collaboration with other national art galleries and museums. Many of the items held in the Canadian National Gallery have been purposely donated or purchased. The sculpture of a giant spider was mounted in front of the Gallery in 2005.

A remarkable piece of architecture, The National Gallery of Canada is a site worth seeing, not only for the huge collection of artistic masterpieces. It is a definite must-see for everyone visiting the city. Time seems to fly by when you are here!

Why You Should Visit:
The place to understand and learn about Canadian artists, both native and contemporary.
Many excellent paintings of Impressionists and Post-Impressionists artists as well: Manet, Monet, Pissarro, Renoir, Sisley, Matisse...
As a bonus the show of the Danish Golden Age is superb; there are many fine paintings of Eckersberg and Hammershøi.

Tip:
The gallery is free on Thursdays after 17:00.
Includes a cafeteria with a "view" and a coffee shop.
For more upscale food options and wine, check out the excellent 7 Tapas bar in the Great Hall.

Rideau Hall, located in Ottawa, is the official residence of the Governor General of Canada. The main building, along with its 170 rooms and 24 outbuildings, exudes an understated elegance that sets it apart from other equally prestigious structures like Buckingham Palace or the White House. This characteristic gives it the ambiance of a private home. Rideau Hall serves as the venue for important events such as the oath-taking ceremonies of Canadian prime ministers and cabinet members, as well as various ceremonial and constitutional duties. It also offers guided tours to the general public, attracting nearly 200,000 visitors each year.

The history of Rideau Hall dates back to 1817 when Thomas McKay, a Scottish immigrant and a notable contractor overseeing the construction of the Rideau Canal, selected this site and constructed a stone residence. Over the years, the villa underwent several modifications and eventually became known as Rideau Hall. McKay and his family resided here until 1855.

In 1864, Queen Victoria chose Ottawa as the new capital of Canada. She leased Rideau Hall from the McKay family for an annual fee of $4,000. The purpose was to provide temporary accommodation for the viceroy until a government house could be built. A new structure was added to the villa, and Viscount Monck, the first Governor General of Canada, became its resident. Rideau Hall witnessed its first major post-World War II event when Dwight D. Eisenhower, the President of the United States at the time, attended a function there.

Today, Rideau Hall continues to be a venue for a wide range of events throughout the year. Foreign dignitaries visiting the residence plant a tree in its garden to commemorate their visit. During the summer months, the garden becomes a hub for parties hosted by the Governor General. Additionally, the Rideau Hall Cricket Association and the Ottawa Valley Cricket Council organize cricket matches, while various outdoor activities like skating, tennis, and toboggan runs take place throughout the year.

In recognition of its historical significance, Rideau Hall and its grounds were designated as a National Historic Site in 1977.

Why You Should Visit:
You can take a free escorted tour of the building and also catch the changing of guards, but the real gem is the grounds themselves – ideally maintained and beautiful to wander around.

Tip:
You may need a reservation to visit. Check on the website to have more information before you stop by.
If you're thinking of visiting during lunchtime, it's best to bring your own picnic.