Things to do in  Ottawa

The Canadian city of Ottawa sits on the southern shores of the Ottawa River, on the border between the provinces of Ontario and Québec. Located 123 miles (198 kilometers) to the west of Montreal, Ottawa is home to the UNESCO World Heritage–listed Rideau Canal, one of North America’s oldest canal systems. Diverse galleries and museums offer insight into Canada’s rich culture and colorful history, while the plentiful riverside parks and green spaces showcase the changing seasons to the full. Visitors keen to take in the city sights can enjoy walking and cycling tours to top attractions such as Byward Market (Ottawa's oldest public market), the Canadian Museum of Civilization, the Canadian War Museum, Notre Dame Basilica, and Rideau Hall; or explore by hop-on hop-off buses and sightseeing cruises. Away from the hustle and bustle of city life, Ottawa is also a great base from which to explore the Canadian countryside. Nature lovers can delve into Algonquin Park to spot native bears, beavers, eagles, and moose in their natural habitat, while thrill-seekers take on the Ottawa River’s swirling class III and IV rapids on adrenaline-pumping white-water rafting adventures. For something a little more sedate, horse-riding treks take visitors deep into the beautiful Ottawa Valley, where life ticks by at an altogether more relaxing pace.