Visited in 2019
Canada’s capital city, Ottawa, is located on the south bank of the Ottawa River and is intersected by the Rideau River and the historic Rideau Canal. It is home to a rich mix of cultures from around the world and proudly bilingual, with English and French widely spoken. Like many capital cities, Ottawa is filled with nationally significant attractions, from museums and historic landmarks to scenic waterways. The first 5 sites in the list below are within walking distance of each other.
- Parliament of Canada
- Fairmont Château Laurier
- ByWard Market
- Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica
- Maman (1999) by Louise Bourgeois
- Rideau Falls
Parliament of Canada is the country’s federal legislature, made up of the Crown, the Senate, and the House of Commons. The House of Commons has 343 elected Members of Parliament (MPs), while the Senate has 105 appointed senators. Together, they debate and pass laws, with the House of Commons holding primary authority over financial matters.
We went on a guided tour of the House of Commons at the West Block, one of the three historic buildings on Parliament Hill. The green chairs in the chamber follow a tradition borrowed from the British Parliament, reflecting Canada’s Westminster-style system. Green symbolizes the commons or ordinary people, distinguishing the lower house from the red-decorated upper house, the Senate.
Fairmont Château Laurier – is impossible to miss, as it stands proudly in the heart of downtown Ottawa near Rideau Street and Sussex Drive. Overlooking the Ottawa River and the Rideau Canal locks, this historic hotel blends old-world elegance with a stunning riverside setting and was designated a National Historic Site in 1980.
ByWard Market – is one of Ottawa’s liveliest and oldest districts, just steps from Parliament Hill. Known for its bustling outdoor stalls, local food vendors, restaurants, and boutiques, it’s a great place to sample Canadian flavors, shop for souvenirs, or enjoy the city’s vibrant atmosphere both day and night.
Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica – is the oldest and largest church in Ottawa, located in the city’s historic Lower Town. Easily recognized by its twin Gothic spires and gilded Madonna, the basilica has been a major landmark since the mid-1800s and was designated a National Historic Site of Canada in 1990.
Blending Neo-Classical and Neo-Gothic architecture, the cathedral is renowned for its richly decorated interior and beautiful craftsmanship. As the seat of Ottawa’s Roman Catholic archbishop, it continues to host services in both English and French, while also standing as a powerful symbol of the city’s religious, cultural, and architectural heritage.
The church’s interior is renowned for its deep blue vaulted ceilings, adorned with golden stars that create a celestial, heavenly atmosphere. Intricate woodwork, detailed statues, and vibrant stained-glass windows draw the eye upward, symbolizing the heavens. The church can accommodate over 1,500 people, including its second-floor balcony when opened for larger services.
Maman (1999) by Louise Bourgeois – Within walking distance of the Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica and located right in front of the National Gallery of Canada, Maman is a towering spider sculpture made of bronze, stainless steel, and marble, standing over 30 feet tall with a sac of 32 marble eggs. Its name, French for mother, honors Bourgeois’ own mother, symbolizing strength, protection, and nurture.
Rideau Falls is a striking natural landmark where the Rideau River flows into the Ottawa River, splitting into two powerful cascades around Green Island. The falls are especially impressive in spring and winter, when frozen ice formations create a dramatic scene. Easily viewed from nearby pathways and bridges, Rideau Falls offers a peaceful yet dramatic glimpse of Ottawa’s natural beauty just minutes from downtown.
There are pathways around Rideau Falls, making it a perfect spot for a relaxing walk with beautiful riverside scenery and peaceful views.
