The most useful attraction list is not the longest one. It shows which places fit together, how much time they require and what role they play in the overall trip.
National-capital core
- Parliament Hill and visitor experiences
- Ottawa Locks and Rideau Canal viewpoints
- Major’s Hill Park
- ByWard Market
- National Gallery of Canada
- Sparks Street and ceremonial monuments
Major museums beyond one cluster
Ottawa and Gatineau contain several large national museums. They are not all beside one another. Choose by subject, then plan the transport and surrounding half-day rather than treating them as a single museum district.
Outdoor and neighbourhood attractions
The canal, Ottawa River pathways, urban parks, the Glebe, Lansdowne, Hintonburg, Westboro, New Edinburgh and Gatineau can provide contrast to national institutions.
How to shortlist
- Choose one national symbol.
- Choose one museum or gallery.
- Choose one outdoor route or park.
- Choose one neighbourhood.
- Keep one weather-proof backup.