Areas of Interest in Ottawa

Nepean Point offers stunning views of the city, river and surrounding countryside.  The statue of Samuel de Champlain is also at the top, one of the early explorers who founded Quebec in 1608.

Between May and October river trips run along the river from the locks.  Most trips last just over an hour heading up to Victoria Island before heading east to the mouth of the Gatineau River.  Cruises also run along the Rideau Canal or alternatively bus tours operate all year round from the Rideau Centre shopping mall.

Rideau Hall is set amongst 79 acres of parkland to enjoy.  There are also free tours of the Hall's public rooms in July and August and weekends from May to October.  Alternatively for another quiet green space in the centre of the city the Major's Hill Park has gorgeous views across the river.

Byward market is now a trendy district in the city, which got its name from the market itself. Visit any day as it only closes for Christmas and New Years day.  Heading away from the market to Rideau Street, the Rideau Centre has a fine selection of shops including Seas and Hudson Bay department stores, Eddie Bauer, Old Navy and Banana Republic.

The National Gallery of Canada is a striking glass and stone building containing the most extensive collection of Canadian art in the world.  Enjoy Inuit art, where objects are carved from antlers, whalebones or painted on seal skin.  The admission is very cheap and this is a must see for the culture. 

Heading back into the centre from here pass the Peacekeeping Monument and notice The Notre Dame Cathedral Basilica, easily spotted by its twin steeples and Gothic revival style.  Inside the spacious area is ornate with gold stars decorating the blue ceiling.

The Canadian Museum of Civilisation is the most visited attraction in Canada across the Ottawa River in Gatineau.  It is a must visit for anyone new to Canada, with a gallery and presentation of the last thousand years of the country's history.  Amongst the several special exhibitions it offers visitors a walk onto a ship used by early explorers through the 18th century and into the departure lounge at Vancouver Airport in the 1960's.

Eating Out in Ottawa

The Empire Grill on Clarence Street is overflowing on weekend mornings. Offering a good value full breakfast of eggs, ham, pancakes and toast.  During warmer months tables on the terrace are perfect for an alfresco brunch.

Byward Market has several tasty choices for a light snack to eat in or takeaway.  Try the Byward Café or Le Moulin de Proven.  Across William Street a kiosk named BeaverTails can be found, selling the local speciality. This is not the real beaver tail you may expect, it consists of a pizza base and a pancake topped with your choice of sweet or cheese.

Also in the Byward area try Meditheo in the evening for Mediterranean style tapas, which can be ordered individually or in conbinations.  Ei8hteen on York Street is an award-winning restaurant with superb food, but prices to match.

Vineyards Wine Bar offers an extensive wine list and you may order sample selections of several red or white Canadian wines.  There is also a range of Canadian and Belgian beer and good food can also be ordered alongside. 

Local Information in Ottawa

Ottawa is on the south side of the Ottawa River and is split b the Rideau Canal.  On the north of Ottawa River is Gatineau, still referred to by locals by its former name Hull.  Although these cities are separate the are often regarded as two halves of the same.

Visit the Capital Infocentre on Wellington Street for any tourist information.  There is also a scale model of the city so you can get an idea of the layout.  If plan to visit several museums, a Museums Passport can be purchased here at around CA$30 (£14.25) which provide entry into ten main museums in the capital.  These can also be bought at any of the participating museums.