The Rideau Canal
In winter, a skate or walk on the Rideau Canal is a must. The Rideau Canal is the longest outdoor skating rink in the world, and the Winterlude Festival turns it into a fairytale on ice. In summer, take a lazy stroll to the locks, and visit the Canal Museum.
Ottawa Theatre
If theater is your thing, go to the National Arts Centre, just west of the Rideau Canal. The Arts Centre is the Grand Duchess of theater in Ottawa, and hosts dance, music and international theater events such as the smash "Wicked" and the popular comedy "Beer". From the intimate Fourth Stage to the splendor of Southam Hall, the National Arts Centre has theater shows to suit your tastes.
For an artsy flair, go immediately east of the Rideau Centre, to Arts Court. The stone heritage building was once the Ottawa Courthouse. Arts Court is home to arts groups, modern art galleries, and a theater. The Arts Court Theatre runs popular art and music events all year. The 2008 fall lineup includes the Animation Festival, Le Groupe Dance Lab, and the original musical comedy, "Making Necrophiliac".
Arts Court also features a progressive artist-run gallery and performance space, in the basement.
The Ottawa Jail
Right next door to Arts Court is the old Ottawa jail and gallows. Condemned prisoners could walk from the courthouse, straight to the hanging! The jail is now a hostel, and offers tours for the brave. Many claim it's haunted. Death row is sure to send shivers down your spine.
The Ottawa Byward Market
The historic Byward Market runs for several blocks, just north of Rideau Street. Restaurants, bars, shops and buskers abound. Seasonal fresh vegetables, maple syrup, arts and crafts are available from the outdoor vendors. In the evening, many bars and venues have live entertainment. In summer, the Market parties every night!
The Rideau Centre
For mall shopping and window-gazing, visit the Rideau Centre on the south side of Rideau Street, at Sussex. Sussex Avenue runs north, between the Byward Market and the Chateau Laurier Hotel. Behind the Chateau Laurier, you can stroll among the flowers in Major's Hill Park, until you arrive at the National Art Gallery.
The National Art Gallery
The Gallery has free admission on Thursdays, from 4-9pm, and half-price admission on Sundays. It houses a vast collection of Canadian and world art, from ancient to modern. From there, it's a ten-minute walk over the picturesque Interprovincial Bridge, to the National Museum of Civilization. As you cross the bridge, you enter the province of Quebec. Bienvenue!
The Museum of Civilization
The Museum of Civilization features special exhibits, along with its permanent collection. For children, educational activities run throughout the day. Arrive early for IMAX Theatre shows -- there's always a lineup. Have a coffee on the Museum's cafe patio, overlooking the Ottawa River. Like the National Gallery, the Museum is free on Thursdays after four, and half-price on Sundays.
Trolley Tours, Bus Tours and Boat Tours
There's no shortage of Ottawa tours. You can even take a Harley motorcycle tour! Popular tours include Paul's Boat Tours, along the Rideau Canal; double-decker bus tours, heritage trolley tours, or a trip into the Ottawa River on an amphibious bus. The Haunted Walk offers a walking tour of Ottawa's spookiest places.
Parliament Hill
You can't miss Parliament Hill! The Peace Tower, with its immense clock, is visible from most of downtown Ottawa. Tour the seat of government in Canada. Watch the Changing of The Guard, every day at 9:45 am. Parliament Hill also features the RCMP Musical Ride. The Parliament Buildings are rich in art and political heritage, and are a striking example of neo-Gothic architecture.
Tourist Info
The Capital Infocentre at 90 Wellington St (www.capcan.ca), is directly opposite Parliament Hill, and has a wealth of tourist information, facts and tips. From Rideau Street, follow Rideau west past the Chateau Laurier, where it turns into Wellington.
For nightlife and entertainment, pick up a copy of the free local paper, the Ottawa Xpress.
Language
In Ottawa, services are available in both French and English. Quebec is officially French-speaking, but all services are available in English. Many residents speak English and French.
Enjoy your visit to Ottawa, Canada!
