Top Things You Need To Know About Ottawa, Canada

Last updated on February 3, 2023

Ottawa is the capital city of Canada and is located in eastern Ontario, near the border with Quebec. The city is home to a number of federal government buildings and institutions, including the Parliament of Canada and the Supreme Court of Canada.

With a population of over one million people, Ottawa is the fourth largest city in Canada and is known for its rich cultural and historical heritage.

Ottawa is located in the Ottawa River Valley, and the city is surrounded by a number of lakes and rivers, including the Ottawa River and Gatineau River. The city has a humid continental climate, with cold winters and hot summers.

Ottawa is a vibrant and diverse city, with a thriving arts and culture scene. The city is home to a number of museums, galleries, and performance venues, and it hosts a number of festivals and events throughout the year, including the Ottawa International Jazz Festival, the Ottawa Fringe Festival, and the Canadian Tulip Festival.

What is Included?

Winter Festivals in Ottawa

Ottawa is known for its cold winters and is home to a number of festivals and events that celebrate the winter season. Here are a few popular winter festivals in Ottawa:

Winterlude: Winterlude is a three-week festival that takes place in Ottawa every February and celebrates the winter season. The festival features a number of outdoor activities, such as skating on the world’s largest skating rink, ice sculpting, and snowshoeing, as well as indoor events, such as concerts and cultural performances.
Ottawa Christmas Market: The Ottawa Christmas Market is an annual holiday market that takes place in December in the ByWard Market neighborhood of Ottawa. The market features a range of holiday-themed activities, such as caroling, festive food and drink, and gift shopping.
Ottawa Ice Dragon Boat Festival: The Ottawa Ice Dragon Boat Festival is an annual event that takes place in February on the frozen Rideau Canal in Ottawa. The festival features ice dragon boat races, as well as a number of other winter activities, such as skating, snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing.
Snowflake Winter Film Festival: The Snowflake Winter Film Festival is an annual event that takes place in February in Ottawa and showcases a range of independent and international films with a winter theme. The festival also features a number of related events, such as film workshops and industry panels.
Ottawa International Animation Festival: The Ottawa International Animation Festival is an annual event that takes place in September in Ottawa and showcases a range of animated films from around the world.

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Summer Festivals in Ottawa

Ottawa is home to a number of festivals and events that take place during the summer months. Here are a few popular summer festivals in Ottawa:

Ottawa International Jazz Festival: The Ottawa International Jazz Festival is an annual event that takes place in June and features a range of jazz performances, including concerts, workshops, and jam sessions. The festival takes place at a number of venues throughout the city, including outdoor stages and indoor theaters.
Ottawa Fringe Festival: The Ottawa Fringe Festival is an annual event that takes place in June and features a range of independent theater performances, including plays, stand-up comedy, and dance. The festival takes place at a number of venues throughout the city, including outdoor stages and indoor theaters.
Canadian Tulip Festival: The Canadian Tulip Festival is an annual event that takes place in May and celebrates the tulip, which is the national flower of Canada. The festival features a range of activities, including tulip displays, music performances, and cultural events.
Ottawa Chamberfest: Ottawa Chamberfest is an annual event that takes place in July and features a range of classical music performances, including concerts, recitals, and chamber music. The festival takes place at a number of venues throughout the city, including outdoor stages and indoor theaters.
Ottawa International Buskerfest: The Ottawa International Buskerfest is an annual event that takes place in August and features a range of street performers, including comedians, musicians, and acrobats. The festival takes place at a number of venues throughout the city, including outdoor stages and indoor theaters.

Overall, Ottawa is home to a number of festivals and events that take place during the summer months, offering something for everyone to enjoy.

Check out these best places to visit Christmas festival in Ontario.

Best Time to Visit Ottawa

The best time to visit Ottawa depends on your personal preferences and the activities you are interested in. Here are a few factors to consider when planning your trip:

Weather: Ottawa has four distinct seasons, with cold winters and hot summers. If you are interested in outdoor activities such as hiking, cycling, and boating, the best time to visit is during the warmer months of the spring, summer, and fall. If you prefer to enjoy indoor activities and enjoy the winter sports, the colder months of the winter can also be a great time to visit.
Festivals and events: Ottawa is home to a number of festivals and events throughout the year, including the Canadian Tulip Festival in the spring, the Ottawa International Jazz Festival in the summer, and the Winterlude Festival in the winter. If you are interested in attending a particular festival or event, you may want to plan your trip accordingly.
Crowds: Ottawa is a popular tourist destination, and the city can get quite crowded during peak tourist season, which runs from June to August. If you prefer to avoid crowds, you may want to consider visiting during the shoulder season (April to May or September to October), when the weather is still pleasant and the crowds are smaller.

Also check: Top Things to Consider While Visiting Vancouver in December

Overall, the best time to visit Ottawa depends on your personal preferences and the activities you are interested in. With careful planning and a little bit of flexibility, you can find a time that is perfect for your trip to Ottawa.

Best Places to Visit in Ottawa, Canada

Ottawa is the capital of Canada and is known for its rich history, cultural attractions, and natural beauty. If you are visiting Ottawa, here are some top places to check out:

Parliament Hill: Parliament Hill is the political center of Ottawa and is home to the Parliament Buildings, which are a must-see for any visitor to the city. You can take a guided tour of the buildings or watch the Changing of the Guard ceremony, which takes place on the lawn in front of the buildings.
ByWard Market: The ByWard Market is a lively neighborhood in the heart of Ottawa that is home to numerous restaurants, cafes, boutiques, and farmers’ markets. It is a great place to shop, eat, and experience local culture.
National Gallery of Canada: The National Gallery of Canada is a world-renowned art museum that is home to a diverse collection of works by Canadian and international artists. The museum is located in the ByWard Market neighborhood and is worth a visit for art lovers.
Rideau Canal: The Rideau Canal is a historic waterway that runs through the center of Ottawa and is a popular destination for recreational activities such as boating, cycling, and skating. In the winter, the canal is transformed into the world’s largest skating rink.
Gatineau Park: Gatineau Park is a large nature reserve located just outside of Ottawa that is popular for hiking, camping, and skiing. The park is home to numerous trails, lakes, and scenic vistas, making it a great place to escape the city and enjoy the outdoors.

These are just a few of the many attractions that Ottawa has to offer. Whether you are interested in culture, history, or nature, you are sure to find something to suit your interests in Ottawa.

Top Colleges in Ottawa

Ottawa is home to several top colleges and universities that offer a wide range of programs in fields such as business, engineering, science, and the arts. Some of the top colleges in Ottawa include:

Carleton University: Carleton University is a public research university located in Ottawa that is known for its strong programs in fields such as engineering, computer science, and business. The university has a diverse student body and is home to a number of research centers and institutes.
University of Ottawa: The University of Ottawa is a public research university located in the heart of Ottawa that is known for its strong programs in law, health sciences, and engineering. The university is home to a number of research centers and institutes and has a diverse student body.
Algonquin College: Algonquin College is a public community college located in Ottawa that offers a wide range of programs in fields such as business, health sciences, and technology. The college has a strong focus on hands-on learning and is known for its practical, career-oriented programs.
La Cité collégiale: La Cité collégiale is a public community college located in Ottawa that offers a wide range of programs in fields such as business, health sciences, and technology. The college has a strong focus on French-language education and has a diverse student body.
Saint Paul University: Saint Paul University is a private Catholic university located in Ottawa that offers a wide range of programs in fields such as theology, social sciences, and education. The university is known for its small class sizes and close-knit community.

These are just a few of the many colleges and universities located in Ottawa. Whether you are interested in a research university or a community college, you are sure to find a program that meets your needs and interests in Ottawa.

Best Places for Shopping in Ottawa

Ottawa is a great city for shopping, with a wide range of options to suit all budgets and tastes. Here are a few popular shopping destinations in Ottawa:

The ByWard Market: The ByWard Market is a lively neighborhood in the heart of Ottawa that is home to numerous boutiques, specialty shops, and farmers’ markets. You can find a wide range of products, from handmade crafts and local produce to designer clothing and accessories.
Rideau Centre: The Rideau Centre is a large shopping mall located in the heart of Ottawa that is home to over 200 stores, including department stores, fashion retailers, and specialty shops. The mall also has a food court and a number of restaurants and cafes.
Westboro Village: Westboro Village is a trendy neighborhood in the west end of Ottawa that is home to a number of independent boutiques, specialty stores, and gift shops. The area is known for its unique and locally-owned shops, making it a great place to find one-of-a-kind products.
The Glebe: The Glebe is a neighborhood in south Ottawa that is home to a number of independent stores, boutiques, and gift shops. The area is known for its diverse range of products, from vintage clothing and antiques to handmade crafts and local art.
St. Laurent Shopping Centre: St. Laurent Shopping Centre is a large shopping mall located in the east end of Ottawa that is home to over 200 stores, including department stores, fashion retailers, and specialty shops. The mall also has a food court and a number of restaurants and cafes.

Overall, Ottawa has a wide range of shopping options to suit all budgets and tastes, whether you are looking for high-end fashion, locally-made products, or a one-of-a-kind gift.

Also check: Best Coffee Shops in Ottawa You’ll Love

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How to Travel in Ottawa

There are several options for getting around Ottawa, depending on your needs and preferences. Here are a few options to consider:

Public transit: Ottawa has an extensive public transit system that includes buses, light rail, and a train service called the O-Train. The transit system is operated by OC Transpo and covers most areas of the city. You can purchase tickets or passes at vending machines or on the OC Transpo website.
Taxis: Taxis are readily available in Ottawa and can be hailed on the street or called to your location. You can also use ride-sharing services such as Uber or Lyft in Ottawa.
Bicycles: Ottawa is a bike-friendly city, with a number of bike lanes and paths throughout the city. You can rent a bike from one of the city’s bike-sharing stations or bring your own bike with you.
Driving: If you prefer to drive, you can rent a car or bring your own vehicle with you. Ottawa has an extensive network of roads and highways, making it easy to get around the city by car.
Walking: Ottawa is a relatively compact city, and many areas of the city are easily accessible by foot. Walking is a great way to explore the city and experience local culture.

Overall, there are a number of options for getting around Ottawa, so you can choose the one that best meets your needs and preferences.

Best Beauty Saloons in Ottawa

Ottawa is home to a number of beauty salons that offer a wide range of services, including haircuts, styling, coloring, and makeup. Here are a few popular beauty salons in Ottawa:

Blowout Beauty Bar: Blowout Beauty Bar is a trendy salon located in the heart of Ottawa that specializes in blowouts and styling. The salon also offers a range of other services, including haircuts, coloring, and makeup.
Glamour Secrets: Glamour Secrets is a beauty salon chain with locations throughout Ottawa that offers a range of services, including haircuts, styling, coloring, and makeup. The salon is known for its friendly staff and affordable prices.
Element Nail Spa: Element Nail Spa is a luxury nail salon located in Ottawa that offers a range of services, including manicures, pedicures, gel polish, and nail art. The salon is known for its high-quality products and relaxing atmosphere.
The Lash Lounge: The Lash Lounge is a specialty salon located in Ottawa that offers a range of services, including lash extensions, lash lifts, and brow shaping. The salon is known for its skilled technicians and high-quality products.
The Beauty Spot: The Beauty Spot is a beauty salon located in Ottawa that offers a range of services, including haircuts, styling, coloring, and makeup. The salon is known for its friendly staff and comfortable atmosphere.

Overall, Ottawa has a wide range of beauty salons to choose from, offering a variety of services to suit your needs and preferences. Whether you are looking for a basic haircut or a full makeover, you are sure to find a salon that meets your needs in Ottawa.

Best Coffee Shops in Ottawa

Ottawa is home to a number of coffee shops that offer a wide range of coffee and espresso drinks, as well as pastries, sandwiches, and other light meals. Here are a few popular coffee shops in Ottawa:

Bridgehead: Bridgehead is a locally-owned coffee shop chain with locations throughout Ottawa that is known for its commitment to sustainability and fair trade. The shop offers a wide range of coffee and espresso drinks, as well as pastries, sandwiches, and other light meals.
Happy Goat Coffee: Happy Goat Coffee is a locally-owned coffee shop chain with locations throughout Ottawa that is known for its commitment to sustainability and locally-sourced ingredients. The shop offers a wide range of coffee and espresso drinks, as well as pastries, sandwiches, and other light meals.
Art-Is-In Bakery: Art-Is-In Bakery is a locally-owned bakery and coffee shop located in Ottawa that is known for its artisanal breads and pastries. The shop offers a wide range of coffee and espresso drinks, as well as sandwiches, soups, and other light meals.
Little Victories Coffee: Little Victories Coffee is a locally-owned coffee shop located in Ottawa that is known for its unique coffee blends and attentive service. The shop offers a wide range of coffee and espresso drinks, as well as pastries, sandwiches, and other light meals.
The Ministry of Coffee and Social Affairs: The Ministry of Coffee and Social Affairs is a locally-owned coffee shop located in Ottawa that is known for its cozy atmosphere

Best Lakes in Ottawa

Ottawa is located in the Ottawa River Valley, and the city is surrounded by a number of lakes that offer a variety of recreational activities and scenic views. Here are a few popular lakes in the Ottawa area:

Gatineau Lake: Gatineau Lake is a large lake located in Gatineau Park, just north of Ottawa. The lake is popular for swimming, boating, and fishing, and it has a number of sandy beaches and public boat launches.
Lac des Loups: Lac des Loups is a small lake located in the Ottawa Valley that is popular for swimming, boating, and fishing. The lake has a number of public boat launches and is surrounded by forests and hiking trails.
Dow’s Lake: Dow’s Lake is a man-made lake located in the heart of Ottawa that is popular for recreational activities such as boating, cycling, and skating. In the winter, the lake is transformed into the world’s largest skating rink.
Lac Leamy: Lac Leamy is a large lake located in Gatineau, just across the river from Ottawa. The lake is popular for recreational activities such as boating, swimming, and fishing, and it is home to the Casino du Lac-Leamy, a popular entertainment destination.
Rideau Lake: Rideau Lake is a large lake located in the Ottawa Valley that is popular for recreational activities such as boating, fishing, and swimming. The lake is surrounded by forests and hiking trails and is home to a number of cottages and summer homes.

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Overall, the Ottawa area is home to a number of lakes that offer a variety of recreational activities and scenic views. Whether you are looking to swim, boat, fish, or simply enjoy the outdoors, you are sure to find a lake that meets your needs in the Ottawa area.

Best Churches in Ottawa

Ottawa is home to a number of churches that represent a variety of denominations and traditions. Here are a few popular churches in Ottawa:

Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica: Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica is a Roman Catholic cathedral located in the heart of Ottawa that is known for its stunning architecture and rich history. The cathedral is a popular tourist destination and is home to a number of religious and cultural events throughout the year.
Christ Church Cathedral: Christ Church Cathedral is an Anglican cathedral located in the heart of Ottawa that is known for its stunning architecture and rich history. The cathedral is a popular tourist destination and is home to a number of religious and cultural events throughout the year.
St. Joseph’s Parish: St. Joseph’s Parish is a Roman Catholic church located in the heart of Ottawa that is known for its beautiful architecture and welcoming community. The church is home to a number of religious and cultural events throughout the year.
First Baptist Church: First Baptist Church is a Baptist church located in the heart of Ottawa that is known for its welcoming community and diverse worship services. The church is home to a number of religious and community events throughout the year.
St. Elias Antiochian Orthodox Cathedral: St. Elias Antiochian Orthodox Cathedral is an Eastern Orthodox cathedral located in the west end of Ottawa that is known for its beautiful architecture and rich liturgical traditions. The cathedral is home to a number of religious and cultural events throughout the year.

Overall, Ottawa is home to a number of churches that represent a variety of denominations and traditions. Whether you are looking for a place of worship or simply want to explore the city’s rich religious heritage, you are sure to find a church that meets your needs in Ottawa.

Best Mosques in Ottawa

Ottawa is home to a number of mosques that serve the city’s Muslim community. Here are a few popular mosques in Ottawa:

Ottawa Mosque: Ottawa Mosque, also known as the Ottawa Islamic Centre, is a large mosque located in the east end of Ottawa that is known for its welcoming community and diverse programming. The mosque offers a range of services and activities, including daily prayers, religious education, and community events.
Masjid-an-Noor: Masjid-an-Noor is a mosque located in the south end of Ottawa that is known for its welcoming community and diverse programming. The mosque offers a range of services and activities, including daily prayers, religious education, and community events.
Masjid Al-Salaam: Masjid Al-Salaam is a mosque located in the east end of Ottawa that is known for its welcoming community and diverse programming. The mosque offers a range of services and activities, including daily prayers, religious education, and community events.
Masjid Ar-Rahman: Masjid Ar-Rahman is a mosque located in the east end of Ottawa that is known for its welcoming community and diverse programming. The mosque offers a range of services and activities, including daily prayers, religious education, and community events.
Masjid Al-Huda: Masjid Al-Huda is a mosque located in the east end of Ottawa that is known for its welcoming community and diverse programming. The mosque offers a range of services and activities, including daily prayers, religious education, and community events.

Overall, Ottawa is home to a number of mosques that serve the city’s Muslim community and offer a range of services and activities. Whether you are looking for a place of worship or simply want to learn more about Islam, you are sure to find a mosque that meets your needs in Ottawa.

You can also check out these best historical mosques in Turkey.

Also, check out these best mosques in Hyderabad.

Best Hospitals in Ottawa

Ottawa is home to a number of hospitals that provide a range of medical services and treatments. Here are a few popular hospitals in Ottawa:

The Ottawa Hospital: The Ottawa Hospital is a large, public teaching hospital located in the east end of Ottawa that offers a wide range of medical services, including emergency care, surgery, and specialized treatments. The hospital has a number of campuses throughout the city.
CHEO (Children’s Hospital of Eastern Ontario): CHEO is a pediatric hospital located in the east end of Ottawa that is known for its specialized care for children and youth. The hospital offers a wide range of medical services, including emergency care, surgery, and specialized treatments.
Bruyère Continuing Care: Bruyère Continuing Care is a healthcare organization located in the west end of Ottawa that offers a range of medical services, including long-term care, rehabilitation, and home care. The organization has a number of locations throughout the city.
Queensway Carleton Hospital: Queensway Carleton Hospital is a public hospital located in the west end of Ottawa that offers a wide range of medical services, including emergency care, surgery, and specialized treatments. The hospital is known for its focus on patient-centered care.
Montfort Hospital: Montfort Hospital is a French-language public hospital located in the east end of Ottawa that offers a wide range of medical services, including emergency care, surgery, and specialized treatments. The hospital is known for its focus on patient-centered care and cultural sensitivity.

Overall, Ottawa is home to a number of hospitals that offer a wide range of medical services and treatments. Whether you are in need of emergency care or specialized treatment, you are sure to find a hospital that meets your needs in Ottawa.