Museums

Renowned cultural attractions enlighten Ottawa’s downtown core. From Canadian history, to priceless world-class art, to the heroic tales of those who fought bravely for Canada, to enormous dinosaur fossils and to the world’s largest indoor collection of totem poles, Ottawa’s many national museums have something to offer everyone, no matter what your interests might be.

Even satisfy your curiosity by visiting a museum on a working farm or in a nuclear shelter four storeys underground!

Whether you are driving or are on foot, the myriad of award-winning museums and galleries is located within minutes of Parliament Hill and of many downtown area hotels. Easily accessible and full of national treasures, all will enrich your visit to Ottawa. This is one learning experience you don’t want to miss!

Festivals and Events

Ottawa has perfected the festival. The city takes an inclusive approach when it comes to hosting its extraordinary festivals and events, touching on nearly every interest across the entire calendar. If you love the outdoors, then Winterlude, which takes place over the three weekends of February, has become one of Canada’s greatest outdoor parties and is perfect for the whole family. Music enthusiasts have no shortage of options, which include RBC Royal Bank Bluesfest, TD Ottawa International Jazz Festival, and Ottawa Chamberfest. And a variety of highly fascinating events, such as Canadian Tulip Festival, Ottawa International Animation Festival, Christmas Lights Across Canada, and Casino du Lac-Leamy Sound of Light help round out the year.

Restaurants and Nightlife

There is never a shortage of things to do at night in Ottawa, the nightlife is amazing. A city where some of the best restaurants, clubs, pubs and bars can be found in abundance, especially at Byward Market, Elgin Street, and Hull. Many of these venues are open until 2 a.m. or later.