Did you know Ottawa welcomes over 11 million visitors each year? Canada’s capital is a hotspot for travelers worldwide. The reason? Rich history, vibrant cultural scene, and beautiful landscapes make Ottawa a must-see destination. And that’s the reason so many people choose Ottawa day tours.
But what if you have only one day of your time? No worries, you can experience the best of this city even in 24 hours.
We will guide you through an itinerary where you will be able to cover the best of Ottawa within only one day.
Guide For The Best Ottawa Day Adventure
Start Your Day at Parliament Hill
Firstly on your Ottawa day tours, visit Parliament Hill, the center of Canada’s political life. It is advisable to arrive in the morning to see the Changing of the Guard ceremony during the summer months. This is a traditional display and reflects the rich military history. Parliament Hill harbors beautiful Gothic-style buildings, and guided tours take visitors through the architecture, history, and workings of the Canadian government.
After you have completed Ottawa day tours of the Parliament Buildings, head to Peace Tower for a breathtaking view of the entire city. If it is a clear day, then you can see the Ottawa River and the Gatineau Hills, among other things. This place is one of the most famous spots in Ottawa for taking photographs, so make sure you do not miss capturing one or two.
Stroll Along the Rideau Canal
After you’re done exploring Parliament Hill, take a walk to Rideau Canal for a top Ottawa day trip. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This picturesque canal extends to 200 kilometers. However, its downtown portion serves as an excellent walking path bordered by green spaces and historical landmarks. During winter, the same canal will turn into the largest skating rink in the world.
In the summer months, the canal is ideal for a boat tour. You can rent paddle boards or kayaks if you are interested in having some outdoor fun. You can relax and take in the picturesque scenery while learning Ottawa’s history and the significance of the Rideau Canal.
Visit the National Gallery of Canada
A must-visit place for all art lovers is the National Gallery of Canada, which showcases thousands of works from Canadian and international artists in a world-class facility. Its architecture is definitely worthwhile. Take a look at a huge glass tower with a view of the Parliament Hill area to make it a top Ottawa day trip.
Inside, you can see works of the famous giant Spider at the gallery’s entrance, Maman Sculpture, Collections of Indigenous Art, Contemporary Works, and European Masterpieces. Even if you are not really into art, the National Gallery offers an outlook on Canadian culture and history which will make your day richer.
Grab Lunch in the ByWard Market
Following a busy morning on your Canada tours, stop at ByWard Market to refuel. This is one of Canada’s oldest and largest public markets, offering a wide variety of dining options, from international dishes to local delicacies. Try a Beavertail, a flat-fried dough pastry with a range of toppings, for a taste of true Canada. In the market area, you can also discover plenty of souvenir stores, handmade crafts, and fresh produce.
Whether you’re into local craft beers or not, Byward Market is a must-visit for the backpacker in you. Just for the record, it has several pubs and bars where you can wet your whistle with a refreshing pint of local beer before you head off to your next adventure.
Explore the Canadian Museum of History
Now, scoot over the river into Gatineau, Quebec, to visit the Canadian Museum of History. Just a short drive from Downtown Ottawa— boom, you’re there. It’s a museum specifically dedicated to the history of the country from human settlements up to modern-day Canada. The architecture is stunning and designed to reflect natural Canadian landscapes.
Here, you can explore the exhibits on Indigenous Cultures, Canadian Achievements, and special temporary galleries that highlight specific periods or regions. The museum also offers Breathtaking views of Parliament Hill so tourists can take some more photos.
Take a Relaxing Walk in Major’s Hill Park
Once you’re done exploring the museum head back across the river and have a quiet stroll through Major’s Hill Park. This beautiful park offers views of the Ottawa River and the downtown skyline. It’s a great spot to stop for a minute, smell the roses, and relax a bit before you continue on to the next part of your day.
The park is a wonderful place to visit all year round for some green space in the center of the city, but it is especially lovely in the spring when the Canadian Tulip Festival brings the park to life with tulips.
Discover the Ottawa Locks
On your way back to downtown Ottawa, stop at Ottawa Locks. Dating back to the opening of the Rideau Canal in 1832, these hand-operated locks connect the canal with the Ottawa River. Watching boats navigate through the locks is a fascinating process, and there’s plenty of space around the area to sit and take in the sights.
End the Day at the Fairmont Château Laurier
To cap off your evening in Ottawa, consider going to Fairmont Château Laurier. A powerhouse architectural jewel, this building stands as a token of Ottawa’s grace and history. Even if this is not your place of stay, you can have afternoon tea in one of the restaurants here or enjoy fine dining.
The hotel is located near many of the top attractions you’ve visited during the day—a perfect spot to wrap up your best Ottawa day adventure. If you’re visiting during the evening take a quick walk around the grounds of the Château Laurier as the city lights give this historic building a beautiful glow.
Bonus Stops If You Have Time
If you find yourself with a bit more time, the best Ottawa day adventure has a few other must-see spots. Rideau Hall is the official residence of the Governor General of Canada. It offers public tours, with a guide who will take you through Canada’s political history and also introduce the role of the Governor General.
Another option is to go to the Diefenbunker, Canada’s Cold War Museum, just out of Ottawa. It’s an underground bunker built for saving key government officials during any nuclear catastrophe and now it’s a museum of some interest.
Time to Plan Your Next Adventure!
Your whirlwind day in Ottawa will leave you eager to discover more of what Canada’s capital has up her sleeve. If you want to make the most of your stay in this amazing city, consider booking a tour from Zoom Tours, who provide comfortable, educational, and engaging experiences and cater to a wide range of interests.
If this itinerary has been enjoyable, save it for your future trip or forward it to friends who are organizing the best Ottawa Day adventure.
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