10 Fun and Free Things to Do in Ottawa

Ottawa is Canada’s capital city and is home to a wide variety of cultural attractions, historical sites, and recreational activities for visitors and locals alike. Whether you’re a visitor or a long-time resident, Ottawa offers plenty of fun and free activities to keep you entertained. From exploring the stunning architecture to taking in the sights and sounds of the city, here are 10 fun and free things to do in Ottawa.

Explore the Architecture

Ottawa’s streets are full of stunning architecture and historical sites, making it a great destination for architecture enthusiasts. From the Gothic-Revival architecture of the Parliament Buildings to the Art Deco towers of the Château Laurier Hotel, there’s something for everyone to explore. Take a stroll down the Rideau Canal and admire the old stone buildings that line the streets or visit the National Gallery of Canada for a unique take on the city’s architectural history.

Visit the Byward Market

The Byward Market is a bustling marketplace and one of Ottawa’s most popular attractions. Home to over 600 vendors, the market offers an array of fresh produce, artisanal goods, and unique eateries. Take a stroll through the market and explore the many shops and restaurants, or simply soak in the atmosphere of one of Ottawa’s oldest and most vibrant neighbourhoods.

Take a Tour of Parliament Hill

Parliament Hill is the heart of Ottawa, and home to the Parliament of Canada. Take a tour of the Parliament Buildings and explore the impressive architecture of the Centre Block and the Library of Parliament. The tour also includes a stop at the Senate and the House of Commons, where visitors can witness the workings of the government in action.

Visit the Canadian War Museum

The Canadian War Museum is a must for anyone interested in Canada’s military history. The museum tells the story of Canada’s involvement in conflicts around the world, from World War I to present day. The museum also houses a variety of interactive exhibits, artifacts and photographs, making it a great place to learn about Canada’s rich military history.

Explore the City’s Parks and Trails

Ottawa is full of beautiful parks and trails, perfect for exploring on foot or bicycle. Take a stroll along the Rideau Canal, wander through the lush green spaces of Gatineau Park, or take a leisurely hike along the Ottawa River. The city’s parks and trails offer a great way to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and explore the natural beauty of Ottawa.

Visit the Canadian Museum of History

The Canadian Museum of History is one of Canada’s most important cultural attractions, and an essential stop for anyone interested in the nation’s history. The museum houses an impressive collection of artifacts and artworks, and tells the story of Canada’s past from the prehistoric era to present day. The museum also offers a variety of interactive exhibits, making it a great place to explore Canada’s rich history.

Take a Ride on the Ottawa River

The Ottawa River is one of the city’s most beautiful landmarks, and a great way to explore the city. Take a ride on the river, or rent a canoe or kayak for a more adventurous experience. You can also take a cruise on one of the city’s many boats, and enjoy the stunning views of the city skyline as you drift along.

Visit the National Gallery of Canada

The National Gallery of Canada is one of the city’s premier art galleries, and a great place to explore the nation’s art and culture. The gallery houses an impressive collection of works from Canadian and international artists, and offers a variety of interactive exhibitions, workshops and educational programs. The gallery is also home to a stunning glass rooftop, perfect for enjoying the views of the city.

Explore the Rideau Canal

The Rideau Canal is one of Ottawa’s most iconic landmarks, and a great place to explore the city. Take a stroll along the canal and admire the stunning architecture of the nearby buildings, or rent a boat and cruise along the canal to get a different perspective of the city. You can also take a leisurely bike ride along the canal’s paths, and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of one of the city’s most picturesque locations.

Take a Tour of the Museum of Nature

The Museum of Nature is a must-see for anyone interested in the natural sciences. From dinosaurs to insects, the museum houses a variety of exhibits and interactive displays, making it a great place to explore the wonders of the natural world. The museum also offers a variety of educational programs and workshops, perfect for learning more about the world around us.

Visit the Ottawa Art Gallery

The Ottawa Art Gallery is one of the city’s most important galleries, and a great place to explore the nation’s art and culture. The gallery houses a variety of works from Canadian and international artists, and offers a variety of interactive exhibitions, workshops and educational programs. The gallery is also home to a stunning rooftop patio, perfect for enjoying the views of the city.

Summary

Ottawa is a beautiful city with plenty of fun and free activities to keep visitors and locals alike entertained. From exploring the stunning architecture to taking in the sights and sounds of the city, there are a variety of fun and free things to do in Ottawa. Whether you’re a visitor or a long-time resident, Ottawa offers plenty of opportunities to explore the city and enjoy its many attractions.