Ottawa is more than politics, it’s a city steeped in history. Granted, its not the most historic city in Canada (that honour goes to Quebec City), but there’s still lots to offer would be travelers. Here are 5 Reasons to Visit Canada’s Capital.
- Byward Market this a must on any and every visit to Ottawa. The Byward Market is surrounded by everything from Irish/Scottish Pubs, to cafe’s, to fine dining. Not to mention great souvenir vendors and street performers. During the day you can find a Farmer’s Market selling all sorts of yummy fruit and veg. I love wasting a day wandering through Byward when I’m visiting Ottawa.
Street Performers at the Byward Market
- Beaver Tails– No, we don’t eat REAL beaver tails! We do eat extremely yummy fried dough smothered in chocolate or sprinkled with cinnamon, which we call Beaver Tails. These yummy snacks can be bought in several places in Ottawa, one of them being the Byward Market!
- Rideau Canal– It’s a canal, how exciting can it be! In the spring/summer take some time to cruise along the canal. It’s a beautiful ride and a great way to learn a little more about Ottawa. During the winter months the Ridea Canal is THE place to go ice skating, and enjoy some Beaver Tails.
The Rideau Canal
- Parliament– I have to admit, even as a Canadian Citizen, visiting Parliament was never an interest of mine. It wasn’t until I visited Ottawa with someone from Switzerland that I actually bothered to walk over to Parliament Hill. He was interested in seeing the changing of the guard, which we did. I was curious about the actual building, so that’s where we went next. Gaining access wasn’t that hard. We had to check our bags, but admittance was free! The best part was the view from the top of the tower. Absolutely breathtaking!
Changing of the Guard- Parliament Hill
- HI Ottawa Jail– I can’t think of a better place to stay in Ottawa. Located close to the Byward Market, HI Ottawa Jail offers an interesting view into Canada’s history. The site of the last public hanging, much of the hostel is still the same as it was during it’s jail days. Stay in your very own cell- the door is pretty dang heavy! I could swear I heard “noises” while I was there. I tell ya, there is nothing like being anxious about having to pee at 2am and running back to your cell afterward!
HI Ottawa Jail
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Poor Ottawa. Sometimes I think it is the unsung city of Canada. It is constantly eclipsed by the likes of Quebec City, Montreal, Vancouver, and Toronto. It’s nice to see it get some attention and to find out what to do if I should ever find myself there. And talk about a hostel with character! “Site of the last public hanging”?! When you get back from your trip, you can tell people you spent a couple of nights in jail. 🙂
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This post was mentioned on Twitter by spunkygirllogue: 5 Reasons to Visit Canada’s Capital: http://wp.me/pFsr2-aF…
That main picture is beautiful. And Beaver Tails sound delicious. I need to make my way to Ottawa just for those ha.
I LOVE Ottawa! Had an amazing trip there last year. Such a gorgeous, clean city. And the BeaverTails? Omg. I live for them. This post makes me excited.
I agree with Suzy the photo’s are awesome and OMG beaver tales sound like choc coated donuts on steroids I want one.
Good post! Ottawa is indeed beautiful and you point out some interesting things here.
Haven’t been for ages, but I remember a place in the Byward Market called the Blue Cactus. My daugher loved it, they made kiddie daiquiries and you could chuck peanut shells on the floor. Is it still there?