Are you moving to Canada’s capital? This city is a perfect combination of history, culture, and outdoor recreation. We have assembled a list of top-rated things to do in Ottawa just for you! Be sure to check it out before you schedule your international moving company and relocate to this scenic place.
Before we move on to Ottawa attractions, let’s cover some quick facts. Even though this place is the capital, it’s actually the fourth largest city in Canada. This is one of the coldest capitals in the world, but it’s also the capital of one of the friendliest countries in the world. The high quality of life makes it one of the best places to live abroad. If you decide to move here, know that the area is multilingual. Around 45% of people speak English and 30% French, while other languages include Italian, Spanish, Portuguese, Chinese, and Arabic. The official currency is the Canadian Dollar.
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1. Canadian Museum of History and the National Gallery of Canada
The first place on our list of things to do in Ottawa, Canada, is reserved for art enthusiasts and history buffs. As soon as you change your address and settle, visit the Canadian Museum of History and National Gallery of Canada. The first one celebrates the county’s history and significant historical figures. If you want to get the best experience, consider booking a tour! The latter is home to quite an extensive collection of Canadian art. Don’t get scared by the giant sculpture of a spider in front of the museum. You’ll be mind-blown when you see the display inside. Some of the most notable Canadian artists you’ll see on exhibition include:
James Wilson Morrice
Prudence Heward
Charles Comfort
Mabel May
Vera Frenkel.
The first thing you’ll encounter in the National Gallery is Louise Bourgeois’s artwork Maman, the world’s largest sculpture.
2. Get the Best View of the Parliament Hill at Peace Tower
Peace Tower is among the best Ottawa places to visit! Go to Peace Tower and get an impressive panoramic view over Parliament Hill, the river, and the hills. On your way up to the top, you’ll catch a glimpse of its bells and see the memorial room dedicated to Canadians who died in WWI.
Peace Tower offers a great view of the city and its river.
3. Don’t Miss Black Squirrel Books and Espresso Bar
Do you like reading and drinking coffee? If your answer is yes, check Ottawa’s Black Squirrel Books and Espresso Bar. By day, you can search among the bookshelves while drinking your coffee. In the evening, you can stop by and enjoy some live music. It is a perfect place to meet new people if you are moving abroad alone.
Spend time in a bookstore while drinking your perfectly made latte.
4. Take a Tour With Brew Donkey
If you would like to know more about the craft beer scene, Brew Donkey should be on your Ottawa things to-do checklist! Brew Donkey is a craft brewery tour company that organizes bus tours to many local breweries. Samples are included!
5. Scenic View, Great Drinks, and Delicious Food at Copper Spirits and Sights
Copper Spirits and Sights is a rooftop bar that offers both great cocktails and a stunning, jaw-dropping view! Did we mention that the food is also excellent? On Sunday, they organize the so-called beats and brunch. If you are moving to another country for love, have a romantic day or evening here and celebrate your new adventure together.
Spend a romantic evening with your significant other while drinking a cocktail and enjoying the city’s scenic view.
What Can You Do in Ottawa for Free?
Are you wondering what to do in Ottawa without charge? If you are on a tight budget, you’ll be happy to hear that there’s plenty to do without spending any money. The best thing is that some of Ottawa’s top attractions are complimentary!
6. Visit Canadian Parliament Hill
Free guided tours around Parliament Hill are one of the best things to do in Ottawa, Ontario. You can choose among different guided tour themes, including Ottawa’s historic train station, the House of Commons on the newly restored West Block, and the East Block guided tours.
7. Check for the Free Museum Hours
You can explore Ottawa’s museums free of charge! Just make sure to check their free hours. For example, the National Gallery that we mentioned offers free entrance every Thursday from 5 PM to 8 PM. If you are on a tight budget, you can visit the War Museum and Museum of History on Thursdays from 4 PM – 8 PM. Tickets for Ottawa’s Aviation and Space Museum are complimentary every day from 4 PM to 5 PM.
8. Byward Market Offers the Best Street Entertainment in Ottawa Canada
Byward Market is the most prominent and busiest marketplace in the city. Yes, you’ll probably spend some money on shopping and food. Yet, you can also enjoy watching some street performances ranging from magicians and acrobats to musicians without charge.
9. Nature Getaway in Gatineau Park
Gatineau Park is a real heaven on Earth for nature and outdoor lovers. Park’s conservation area is only 15 minutes drive from the city’s downtown area. You’ll find plenty of hiking trails and mountain biking paths in this magnificent natural environment. If you are moving with dogs, you’ll find many on-leash routes for your beloved animal.
10. Rideau Canal: Skate on the Largest Frozen Lake in Ontario
Rideau Canal is one of the best complimentary attractions in the city. It is included in the UNESCO World Heritage Site list and spans over 124 miles. You can actually enjoy the Rideau Canal during any season. In summer, you can go on a boat cruise or kayak trip. On winter days, the Rideau Canal becomes a real frozen fairytale for anyone who loves skating.
As part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Rideau Canal is among the top-rated Ottawa attractions.
These Things to Do in Ottawa Should Be Enough to Decide to Move
We have come to the end of our list of Ottawa’s top-rated attractions you can visit when you settle in your new home. When you start planning your move, make sure to hire professional international moving services. A reliable international moving company will help with packing and keeping your precious belongings in clean and temperature-controlled storage facilities. While they do all the stressful parts of your move, you can explore all the great Ottawa attractions. The city’s nearby areas are also pretty impressive, so be sure to get vehicle shipping services. That way, you’ll be able to enjoy a lot of things that Canada can offer easily!
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