Ottawa, the capital of Canada, is often overlooked by tourists compared to cities like Toronto or Vancouver. Ottawa is rich in history, with fascinating museums and notable landmarks. There’s something for everyone, from remarkable architecture to beautiful parks. Ottawa has it all if you’re interested in Canadian history and culture or want to enjoy the city’s charm. This blog will guide you through the best things to do in the city, including top museums, historical sites, and must-see attractions.
If you plan to explore the capital, the best way to see everything Ottawa offers is by having your transportation. Rent a car in Canada and enjoy the flexibility to visit according to your schedule, from the city's historic heart to hidden gems in surrounding areas.
Ottawa is home to some of the best museums in Canada, offering fascinating insights into the country’s history, art, and culture. Here are some top museums to visit while you’re in the city.
The Canadian Museum of History is one of the most well-known museums in Ottawa and is a must-see for anyone interested in Canada’s past. Located across the river in Gatineau, the museum is just a short drive from downtown Ottawa. The museum’s exhibits cover millennia, from Indigenous cultures to today. Highlights include the Grand Hall, which showcases impressive totem poles and other Indigenous art, and the Canadian History Hall, which chronicles the story of Canada’s development from the earliest days of European contact to the modern nation we know today.
You’ll also find temporary exhibits covering various topics, from art to history, and the Gatineau Park nearby, where you can enjoy outdoor activities after exploring the museum.
The National Gallery of Canada is a haven for art lovers, offering a diverse collection of Canadian and Indigenous art alongside European masterpieces. The gallery’s collection includes works from Group of Seven artists, one of Canada’s most famous art groups, and contemporary art from Indigenous and international artists.
Don’t miss the stunning architecture of the building, with its glass and stone design that creates a beautiful contrast against the natural surroundings. The Maman sculpture, a giant spider by artist Louise Bourgeois, is another standout feature of the gallery and a favourite photo spot.
For history enthusiasts, the Canadian War Museum offers an in-depth look at Canada’s military history. The museum’s exhibits cover conflicts from the First World War to contemporary peacekeeping missions.
With its impressive collection of artifacts, vehicles, and personal stories, this museum offers a moving and educational experience. One of the highlights is the Hall of Remembrance, where visitors can pay tribute to the men and women who have served in the Canadian military.
Located just a short drive from the downtown core, the Canadian War Museum is a powerful and thought-provoking visit that gives significant context to the history of Canada.
The Bytown Museum is in one of Ottawa’s oldest buildings, next to the Rideau Canal. The museum tells the story of Ottawa’s early days, from its time as a small settlement called Bytown to becoming Canada’s capital. Visitors can learn about the construction of the Rideau Canal, which was a major engineering feat and is now a UNESCO World Heritage site. The museum’s exhibits include photos, artefacts, and stories of the people who built the canal and the early days of Ottawa as a city.
For a more immersive experience, take a walk along the canal and enjoy the stunning views of the city.
The Canadian Museum of Nature is perfect for families or anyone interested in the natural world. The museum features various exhibits showcasing Canada’s diverse flora and fauna. From dinosaur skeletons to fascinating displays of Canadian wildlife, you’ll understand the country’s natural history.
One of the standout exhibits is the Water Gallery, where you can learn about the importance of water in Canada’s ecosystems. The museum’s building, a beautiful stone structure, is also worth seeing for its grand architecture.
Ottawa is rich in history, with many sites that showcase Canada’s past. Here are some must-see historical attractions in the city.
No visit to Ottawa is complete without a trip to Parliament Hill, the political and historical heart of the city. The iconic Centre Block, featuring the tall clock tower known as the Peace Tower, is one of Ottawa's most recognisable landmarks. Visitors can take guided tours of the Parliament buildings to learn about Canada’s government, history, and Ottawa’s role as the nation’s capital.
During the summer months, you can watch the Changing of the Guard ceremony, a colourful and impressive event every morning. In the evening, the Sound and Light Show on Parliament Hill tells the story of Canada’s history through music, lights, and projections.
The Rideau Canal is a scenic waterway and a piece of Canadian history. The canal, built in the early 19th century, was designed to provide a safe shipping route between Montreal and Kingston. Now a UNESCO World Heritage site, the canal is used for boating in summer and ice skating in winter.
You can take a boat tour along the canal, or in the winter, rent skates and glide along the Rideau Canal Skateway, the world’s largest skating rink. You’ll find charming spots along the canal to stop for a warm drink or a snack while enjoying the beautiful surroundings.
The Notre Dame Cathedral Basilica is Ottawa’s oldest and largest church, and its stunning architecture makes it a must-see. The church features beautiful stained-glass windows and intricate woodwork that tell stories of Canada’s religious history. It’s a peaceful place to visit, and if you’re lucky, you may even hear the beautiful sound of the church’s organ during a service or special event.
The basilica is located in the heart of downtown Ottawa, making it easy to visit while exploring the rest of the city.
Visiting the Royal Canadian Mint is a must if you’ve ever wondered how Canada’s coins are made. The Mint produces all of Canada’s coinage and coins for other countries. You can take a guided tour of the Mint’s facility to see the production process and learn about the history of Canadian currency.
One of the highlights of the Mint is the opportunity to see the world’s largest coin, which weighs over 100 kilograms! Visitors can also purchase unique collector coins at the Mint’s gift shop.
The Diefenbunker is a fascinating and somewhat quirky museum dedicated to Canada’s Cold War history. This underground bunker, located just outside Ottawa, was built in the 1950s to protect the Canadian government in case of a nuclear attack. Today, the bunker operates as a museum, allowing visitors to explore the secretive world of Cold War-era Canada. Inside, the bunker retains its original features, including the Prime Minister’s office, an emergency hospital, and a vault once designated for storing critical information.
Ottawa is a city that embraces nature, and there are plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy, whether you want to relax in the park or go for a bike ride along the canal.
Just a short drive from downtown Ottawa, Gatineau Park is a beautiful natural area that offers hiking, cycling, and wildlife-watching opportunities. The park has numerous trails, ranging from easy walks to more challenging hikes, and is a great place to enjoy Canada’s natural beauty. During the fall, the park’s forests come alive with vibrant colours, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers.
You can also enjoy swimming in the park’s lakes during the summer or cross-country skiing in the winter.
For a relaxing outdoor experience, head to Major’s Hill Park, located near Parliament Hill. This park offers beautiful views of the Ottawa River and Gatineau Hills. It’s an ideal spot for a picnic, and during the summer, you can enjoy various outdoor events, including concerts and festivals. The park also hosts several historical buildings, including the Notre Dame Cathedral Basilica and the National Gallery of Canada.
The Ottawa River Pathway is a scenic walking and cycling trail along the Ottawa River. The pathway offers stunning views of the river, Parliament Hill, and the Gatineau Hills in the distance. It’s a peaceful route for those looking to enjoy the outdoors and explore the city from a different perspective.
While Ottawa has an excellent public transport system, car renting offers flexibility and convenience. It lets you explore the city quickly and visit nearby attractions like Gatineau Park or the Diefenbunker without worrying about schedules.
Finalrentals makes it easy to rent a car, offering a range of vehicles to suit your needs with convenient pick-up and drop-off locations across Ottawa and Canada.
Ottawa is a city rich in history, culture, and beauty. There’s something for everyone, from fascinating museums and historical landmarks to Parliament Hill and Gatineau Park.
Renting a car in Canada lets you fully experience the capital city and surrounding areas, making your trip even more enjoyable. Pack your bags, plan your visit, and get ready to explore Ottawa!
