Virtual Tourist

Things to do in Ottawa

Not Just Any Hotel – Only the Best Things to do in Ottawa, Selected for You!

Jul 04, 2025 - Jul 05, 2025
2 adults, 1 room
Find
Good (875)

Rideau Hall
8:00 AM–sunset
Garden
1 Sussex Dr
View map
Rideau Hall, Ottawa's official residence of the Governor General, showcases stunning architecture and 79 acres of landscaped grounds, rich in history since 1867.

Duration: Approximately 1 hour for the guided tour.

Free entry to the grounds; guided tours require reservation and may have a fee.

Good (3337)

Jacques Cartier Park
Open 24 hours
Park
285 Rue Laurier
View map
Jacques Cartier Park in Gatineau, Canada, spans 23 hectares, offering winter sports, recreational paths, and river views, notably hosting the Winterlude festival each February.

Duration: 2-3 hours.

Free.

Good (452)

Bytown Museum
10:00 AM–5:00 PM
Museum
1 Canal Lane Ottawa Locks
View map
Located in downtown Ottawa, Bytown Museum showcases the city's history from its inception as Bytown to present-day Ottawa, with exhibits in the oldest stone building in the city.

Duration: Approximately 2 hours.

Free. Some special exhibitions may require a paid ticket.

Good (34)

Billings Estate National Historic Site
10:00 AM–5:00 PM
Museum
2100 Cabot St
View map
Billings Estate Museum in Ottawa, Canada, showcases the region’s history through its 1827 home, vast gardens, and historic cemetery with notable burials.

Duration: About 2 hours.

Free. Some special exhibitions and events may require a paid ticket.

Good (361)

Alexandra Bridge
Open all day
Bridge
From St. Patrick St. To St-Laurent Blvd.
View map
Alexandra Bridge in Gatineau, Canada, links Ottawa and Hull, providing a scenic spot for walking, biking, and photography along the river.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free.

Good (223)

Rideau Carleton Raceway Casino
9:00 AM–2:00 AM
Casino
4837 Albion Rd
View map
Rideau Carleton Raceway Casino in Ottawa offers 1200+ slot machines, live table games, dining options, and seasonal horse racing, ensuring diverse entertainment.

Duration: 2 to 4 hours.

Free entry. Charges apply for table games and dining.

Good (39)

Cumberland Heritage Village Museum
10:00 AM–5:00 PM
Museum
2940 Old Montreal Rd
View map
Cumberland Heritage Village Museum offers an immersive journey into life during the 1920s and 30s with authentic buildings and engaging events.

Duration: 2 to 3 hours.

Paid. Specific rates depend on age category; discounts may apply for families or groups.

Good (5)

Nepean Museum
10:00 AM–4:00 PM
Museum
16 Rowley Ave
View map
Nepean Museum in Ottawa highlights local history through exhibits and programs, featuring 15,000 artifacts, community rooms, and outdoor facilities.

Duration: 1 to 2 hours.

Free. Some special exhibitions and events may require a paid ticket.

Good (280)

Lansdowne Park
10:00 AM–10:00 PM
Park
1015 Bank St
View map
Lansdowne Park in Ottawa is a revamped historical site featuring sports, nightlife, greenery, businesses, and unique events for locals and visitors alike.

Duration: 2 hours.

Free. Special events may require a paid ticket.

Good (88)

Sparks Street Mall
10:00 AM–8:00 PM
Square
Sparks St (btwn Elgin St & Lyon St)
View map
Sparks Street Mall in Ottawa features unique shops, vibrant restaurants, and rich history, situated just one block south of Parliament Hill.

Duration: Approximately 2 hours.

Free. Special events may require tickets.

Good (118)

TD Place Stadium
10:00 AM–11:00 PM
Stadium
1015 Bank St
View map
TD Place Stadium in Ottawa features a 24,000-seat outdoor stadium and a 10,000-seat indoor arena, hosting major sports and entertainment events.

Duration: At least 2 hours for events.

Prices vary for events; general admission may require a paid ticket.

Good (8)

Carleton University
8:00 AM–10:00 PM
Museum
1125 Colonel By Drive
View map
Carleton University in Ottawa, Canada, is a leading research institution, recognized for its emphasis on student engagement and innovation across diverse fields.

Duration: 2 hours.

Free. Access to the campus is free for all visitors.

Embassy of Spain
9:00 AM–5:00 PM
Public Building
74 Stanley Avenue (at Union St)
View map
The Embassy of Spain in Ottawa represents Spanish interests in Canada, featuring elegant architecture and cultural programming.

Duration: Less than 1 hour.

Free access to the embassy; special events may require tickets.

Embassy of Denmark
9:00 AM–5:00 PM
Public Building
47 Clarence St (at Parent Ave)
View map
The Embassy of Denmark in Ottawa represents Danish interests in Canada, promoting cultural exchange, trade, and diplomatic relations.

Duration: About 1 hour.

Free. Access may be limited to certain events.

EY Centre
10:00 AM–5:00 PM
Event hall
4899 Uplands Dr (Airport Parkway)
View map
The EY Centre in Ottawa, Canada, is a modern event space covering 190,000 sq. ft. Known for its versatile facilities, it hosts diverse events from trade shows to conventions.

Duration: 2-4 hours depending on the event.

Entry is generally free for public events, but ticket prices may vary for specialized exhibitions and corporate events.

National Arts Centre
10:00 AM–5:00 PM
Business Center
53 Elgin St (at Queen St)
View map
The National Arts Centre in Ottawa, Canada is a premier venue for opera, drama, and Broadway shows, complete with a resident symphony orchestra.

Duration: Approximately 2-3 hours.

Free entry to the building. Some performances may require a paid ticket.

Good (28071)

Parliament Hill
9:00 AM–5:00 PM
Public Building
111 Wellington St
View map
Parliament Hill in Ottawa features Gothic revival architecture housing Canada's legislature. Free guided tours cover political history and system workings.

Duration: 1 to 2 hours for a tour.

Free. Guided tours may require advance booking.

U.S. Embassy
9:00 AM–5:00 PM
Public Building
490 Sussex Dr (at Clarence St)
View map
The U.S. Embassy in Ottawa serves as the diplomatic mission of the United States to Canada, promoting bilateral relations and providing consular services.

Duration: Around 1-2 hours.

Free. Some special events may require registration.

Good (69)

Maplelawn Garden
9:00 AM–7:00 PM
Garden
497-529 Richmond Rd
View map
Maplelawn Garden in Ottawa features heritage gardens with a diverse collection of plants, pathways, and historical significance dating back to the 19th century.

Duration: 1 to 2 hours.

Free. Donations are welcomed to support maintenance.

Good (3817)

Canada Aviation and Space Museum
May 01-Sep 02 09:00-17:00; Sep 03-May 01 We-Mo 10:00-17:00 || Tu closed; PH open; Dec 25 off
Museum
11 Aviation Parkway
View map
Canada Aviation and Space Museum in Ottawa features a vast collection of over 130 aircraft, covering aviation history from 1909 to present, including military and civilian exhibits.

Duration: Approximately 3 hours.

Paid. Adults: CAD 16, Seniors: CAD 14, Youth: CAD 10, Children under 6: Free.

Good (8541)

Canadian War Museum
May-Jun: Fr-We 09:00-17:00; Jul-Aug: Fr-We 09:00-18:00; May-Aug: Th 09:00-20:00; Sep-Apr: Fr-We 09:30-17:00; Sep-Apr: Th 09:30-20:00
Museum
1 Vimy Pl (at Booth St)
View map
The Canadian War Museum in Ottawa showcases Canada's military history through personal stories, artifacts, and interactive presentations in a modern architectural setting.

Duration: 3-4 hours.

Free. Some special exhibitions may require a paid ticket.

Good (304)

Supreme Court of Canada
9:00 AM–5:00 PM
Public Building
301 Wellington St
View map
The Supreme Court of Canada in Ottawa is the nation's highest court, renowned for its distinctive architecture and accessible public tours.

Duration: 1 hour for a guided tour.

Free. Tours must be booked in advance outside of the summer months.

Good (424)

Canadian Tire Centre
10:00 AM–10:00 PM
Stadium
110-1000 Palladium Dr
View map
Canadian Tire Centre in Ottawa hosts NHL's Ottawa Senators and major concerts. Located southwest of downtown Ottawa, it serves as a key entertainment venue.

Duration: 2-4 hours depending on the event.

Varies by event. NHL games typically $30-$200, concerts vary by artist.

Good (1922)

Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica
10:00 AM–5:00 PM
Church
56 Guigues Ave. (at Sussex Dr.)
View map
Notre Dame Basilica in Ottawa, Canada, is a historic Roman Catholic church featuring twin spires and a colorful interior that dates back to the 19th century.

Duration: 1 to 2 hours.

Free. Donations are appreciated.

Scotiabank Place
10:00 AM–11:00 PM
Event hall
Ottawa ON
View map
Scotiabank Place, located in Ottawa, Canada, is the primary home of the NHL team Ottawa Senators and hosts numerous sporting events and concerts.

Duration: 2-4 hours depending on event.

Variable. NHL games tickets range from CAD 30 to CAD 200, concerts may vary.

Good (4538)

Canada Science and Technology Museum
Tu-Su 09:00-17:00; May-Aug Mo 09:00-17:00; Dec 25 off; PH "open"; Dec 24 "Closes at 14:00"
Museum
1867 St Laurent Blvd (Russell Rd)
View map
The Canada Science and Technology Museum in Ottawa offers innovative exhibits on Canadian science and technology, including 11 new displays post-renovation.

Duration: Around 2-3 hours.

Free. Certain temporary exhibitions may have a ticket charge.

Embassy of Switzerland
8:30 AM–5:00 PM
Public Building
5 Marlborough Ave (at Laurier Ave E)
View map
The Embassy of Switzerland in Ottawa represents Swiss interests in Canada, fostering diplomatic relations and cultural exchange.

Duration: 1 to 2 hours.

Free. Guided tours may have specific arrangements.

Centrepointe Theatre
9:00 AM–9:00 PM
Theater
101 Centrepointe Drive
View map
Nepean Centrepointe Theatre in Ottawa is a premier performing arts venue featuring diverse cultural events and community performances year-round.

Duration: 2-3 hours.

Varies by event. Some programs are free, while others require paid tickets.

Ottawa Masonic Centre
9:00 AM–5:00 PM
Event hall
2140 Walkley Rd
View map
Ottawa Masonic Centre is a historic venue in Ottawa, Canada, serving as a hub for Masonic events and community activities. It features unique architecture and significant cultural value.

Duration: Approximately 1-2 hours.

Free. Special events may have admission fees.

Overbrook Bingo Palace
12:00 PM–12:00 AM
Casino
Canada
View map
Overbrook Bingo Palace in Ottawa offers exciting bingo games in a spacious and friendly atmosphere, perfect for enthusiasts and newcomers alike.

Duration: Approximately 2 to 3 hours.

Prices vary by game session. Standard entry is around $15, with discounts for seniors and special events.

Elmwood School
8:00 AM–4:00 PM
Amusement Park
261 Buena Vista Road
View map
Elmwood School in Ottawa is a private girls' school emphasizing academic excellence, leadership, and personal growth. Established in 1915, it fosters a nurturing environment.

Duration: Approximately 1 hour.

Free. Access to some events may require registration or tickets.

Good (20)

Ottawa International Airport
24 hours
Airport
1000 Airport Parkway Priv
View map
Ottawa International Airport, situated in Ottawa, Canada, serves as a key transportation hub, offering domestic and international flights with modern facilities.

Duration: 1 to 2 hours depending on travel needs.

Free to enter. Flight tickets priced separately depending on airline and destination.

Good (77)

National Capital Greenbelt
Open 24 hours
Park
Ottawa
View map
National Capital Greenbelt is a 200 square-kilometer rural landscape in Ottawa, featuring farms, forests, natural areas, and recreational facilities.

Duration: 2-3 hours.

Free. Some specific events may involve a fee.

Good (485)

Hog's Back Falls
Open 24 hours
Waterfall
Hog's Back Road at Colonel By Dr.
View map
Hog's Back Falls, also known as Prince of Wales Falls, features a 60-foot waterfall where the Rideau River meets the Rideau Canal in Ottawa, Canada.

Approximately 1 to 2 hours.

Free.

Good (1605)

Canada Agriculture and Food Museum
Mar-Oct 09:00-17:00; Nov-Feb We-Su 09:00-17:00
Museum
861 Prince of Wales Drive
View map
The Canada Agriculture and Food Museum in Ottawa showcases Canada's agricultural heritage, live animals, and educational programs on food literacy since 1983.

Duration: 2 to 3 hours.

Free for children under 2 years old. General admission may vary; check the website for specific events.

Good (1258)

Confederation Park
Open 24 hours
Park
Laurier Ave W & Elgin St
View map
Confederation Park features memorial monuments, sculptures, and fountains, serving as a venue for festivals and national celebrations in Ottawa, Canada.

Duration: Approximately 1-2 hours.

Free. Special events may require a paid ticket.

Good (335)

Major's Hill Park
6:00 AM–11:00 PM
Park
Behind the Chateau Laurier
View map
Major's Hill Park is a scenic green space in Ottawa, Canada, adjacent to the Ottawa River, offering beautiful views and cultural significance. It's close to major museums and historic sites.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free.

Good (118)

Little Ray's Nature Centre
10:00 AM–5:00 PM
Zoo
5305 Bank St
View map
Little Ray's Nature Centre in Ottawa offers an interactive eco-education experience with diverse animal exhibits, outreach programs, and special events since 1995.

Duration: 2-3 hours.

Admission fees apply. Check the official website for details on specific pricing.

Good (46)

Strathcona Park
Open 24 hours
Park
25 Range Rd
View map
Strathcona Park in Ottawa offers green spaces, walking paths, and historical significance, making it an inviting destination for recreation and relaxation.

Duration: About 1-2 hours.

Free. No admission charge for general entry.

Good (438)

Rideau Falls
Open all day
Waterfall
50 Sussex Dr. (Stanley Ave.)
View map
Rideau Falls in Ottawa features two 11-meter waterfalls divided by Green Island, where the Rideau River meets the Ottawa River, creating scenic views and green space.

Duration: 1 hour.

Free.

Good (64)

University of Ottawa
8:00 AM–6:00 PM
University
550 Cumberland St
View map
The University of Ottawa is a bilingual public research university, founded in 1848, located in Ottawa, Ontario, Canada, with a diverse student body and extensive academic offerings.

Duration: Approximately 2 hours.

Free for general access. Some special events may require a paid ticket.

Good (20)

Brewer Park
Open all day
Park
Bronson Avenue
View map
Brewer Park in Ottawa features expansive green spaces, sports fields, a splash pad, and scenic walking paths along the Rideau River.

Duration: 2-3 hours.

Free. Some events may have associated costs.

Good (19)

Garden of the Provinces and Territories
Open 24 hours
Park
Wellington Street at
View map
The Garden of the Provinces and Territories in Ottawa features landscapes representing each Canadian province and territory, promoting the nation's diverse culture and heritage.

Duration: Approximately 1-2 hours.

Free. No admission charges apply.

Good (7)

Vincent Massey Park
7:00 AM–8:00 PM
Park
Heron Road & Riverside Drive
View map
Vincent Massey Park in Ottawa offers expansive green space with walking trails, picnic areas, and beautiful gardens, ideal for outdoor enthusiasts and families.

Duration: About 2 hours.

Free to enter.

Good (3)

Goulbourn Museum
10:00 AM–4:00 PM
Museum
2064 Huntley Rd
View map
Goulbourn Museum in Ottawa explores local history with artifacts, exhibits, and engaging programs. Highlights include early settlement artifacts and interactive displays.

Duration: Approximately 1-2 hours.

Free. Special events and temporary exhibits may have fees.

Good (82)

The Spa Day Retreat
10:00 AM–8:00 PM
Architectural Building
26 Castlefrank road (Hazeldean)
View map
The Spa Day Retreat in Ottawa offers diverse spa services including aesthetics, hair design, massage, and unique Himalayan Salt Room therapies since 1996.

Duration: 2-3 hours for a full experience.

Services are paid; no admission fee.