Things to do in Ottawa

Activities, attractions and tours

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Ottawa travel guide

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Tours & day trips

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Ottawa: Sightseeing River Cruise

Free cancellation available

Private & custom tours

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Sentier des Cimes Laurentides Scenic Views and Mont Tremblant

Ottawa Mystery Quest: Self-Guided Detective Adventure

Free cancellation available

Food, drink & nightlife

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Oh Canada Eh!? Ottawa Dinner Musical with Live Music and Comedy

What to do in Ottawa

Stay near popular Ottawa attractions

Canadian Tire Centre

8.4/5 (3,133 reviews)

Home to the Ottawa Senators NHL team, the Canadian Tire Centre hosts thrilling hockey games and major concerts. Splurge on luxury suites for premium views and enhanced dining options during events.

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Where to stay in Ottawa

Find the best Ottawa areas for the activities you enjoy most. Learn more about Ottawa

Downtown Ottawa

Known for its fascinating museums and popular shops, there's plenty to explore in Downtown Ottawa. Check out top attractions like Byward Market Square and Parliament Hill, and jump on the metro at Rideau Station or Parliament Station to see more of the city.

ByWard Market

A noteworthy feature of ByWard Market is its popular shops. While you're in town, be sure to stop and check out Byward Market Square and Rideau Centre.

Centretown

Known for its abundant dining options and interesting museums, there's plenty to explore in Centretown. Top attractions like Parliament Hill and Elgin Street are major draws, and you can catch the metro at Parliament Station or Lyon Station to see more of the city.

Glebe

You'll enjoy the live music and monuments in Glebe. You might want to make time for a stop at TD Place Stadium or Elgin Street.

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OTTAWA, ONTARIO / CANADA - JULY 30 2017: SUNSET AT OTTAWA RIVER. GATENAU VIEW.

Westboro

While Westboro may not have many sights to explore, venturing just a little farther will lead you to top things to see and do like Kōena Spa and Great Canadian Theatre Company.

Kemptville

Frequently asked questions

Is Ottawa worth visiting?

One of the most popular things to do in Ottawa is visit Canadian Museum of History. Tick this major attraction off your list, then experience more of the area's culture and history.

How do I spend a day in Ottawa?

Kick your day off with a visit to Canadian Museum of History and Canada Aviation and Space Museum. Then, explore other parts of Ottawa for a bite to eat and a little retail therapy.

What is the top tourist attraction in Ottawa?

Canadian Museum of History is one of the top tourist attractions in Ottawa and should be high on every to-do list of the area.

Is three days enough to stay in Ottawa?

Three days in Ottawa is more than enough to visit the city's major attractions. Many travellers book for two days on average. Canadian Museum of History, Canada Aviation and Space Museum and Canadian Museum of Nature are among the top-rated sights. Want to discover more? Hang around a little longer to explore nearby hotspots like Gatineau.

Is Ottawa a walkable city?

It all depends on what you want to do and see in Ottawa. Several attractions, like Canadian Museum of History and Canadian Museum of Nature, are reachable on foot. If you're up for a wander through some of Ottawa's neighbourhoods, Downtown Ottawa is 2 kilometres away from downtown, while Byward Market - Parliament Hill is 0.97 kilometres away from the centre and also within walking distance.

What are some activities to do in Ottawa with kids?

If you're looking for activities and attractions for all ages, take a look at these terrific ideas for what to do in Ottawa with kids.

What to do in Ottawa for adults?

Funhaven Entertainment Centre and Parliament Hill are just two of the things to do in Ottawa. With plenty of activities available, there's something here for everyone.

Are there free things to do in Ottawa?

One of the top ways to discover free things to do in Ottawa is to speak with a local tour guide. You'll get insider tips on cool neighbourhoods, parks and other hotspots you can visit without reaching for your wallet. Major's Hill Park is one place that doesn't charge an admission fee.