Ottawa

Day Trips

Make the most of your day with our curated plans, packed with Ottawa's hidden gems and unique experiences!

day 1
Parliament Hill & ByWard Market
morning
:

Start your day with a guided tour of the iconic Parliament Hill, where you can learn about Canada’s political history. Don’t forget to snap a picture of the stunning architecture.

afternoon
:

Head to ByWard Market for lunch at one of the charming cafés and explore the local shops. Try some famous BeaverTails for a unique Canadian treat.

evening
:

As the sun sets, enjoy dinner at one of the market's many restaurants. Take a leisurely stroll through the vibrant nightlife of the area.

day 2
Rideau Canal & National Gallery
morning
:

Rent a bike and ride along the beautiful Rideau Canal, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Stop at various parks and enjoy the scenic views.

afternoon
:

Visit the National Gallery of Canada to admire an impressive collection of Canadian and European art. Make sure to check out the famous Maman sculpture.

evening
:

Have a cozy dinner at a nearby restaurant featuring local cuisine. If you're up for it, enjoy a walk along the canal, especially beautiful at night.

day 3
Canadian Museum of History
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Canadian Museum of History, which offers fascinating exhibits about Canadian culture. Enjoy stunning views of Ottawa from the museum's terrace.

afternoon
:

Have lunch at the museum's café and take some time to explore the museum’s other exhibits. You can also check out the Canadian Children's Museum located on-site.

evening
:

Return to Ottawa and relax with dinner in the vibrant downtown area. Wrap up your day with a performance at a local theater.

day 4
Gatineau Park Adventure
morning
:

Drive to Gatineau Park and start your day with a scenic hike. Don’t forget your camera, as the views are breathtaking.

afternoon
:

Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy amidst nature. Explore more trails or rent a canoe for a different perspective of the park.

evening
:

After a day of exploration, return to Ottawa for a well-deserved dinner. Consider dining at a restaurant with a view of Parliament Hill.

day 5
Ottawa Science & Technology Museum
morning
:

Kick off your day at the Canada Science and Technology Museum, where interactive exhibits make learning fun. Explore innovations and inventions that shaped Canada.

afternoon
:

Grab lunch at the museum café and venture to the nearby Canada Aviation and Space Museum. Discover the history of aviation in Canada.

evening
:

Have a casual dinner at a nearby sports pub. Catch a local game or live music to end your day on a lively note.

day 6
Art & Culture Day
morning
:

Begin your day at the Ottawa Art Gallery, where contemporary art pieces await. Engage in a guided tour or explore at your own pace.

afternoon
:

Visit the Canadian Museum of Contemporary Photography located nearby. Enjoy lunch in the artsy neighborhood surrounding the gallery.

evening
:

Dine at one of the unique restaurants in the area offering local dishes. Check out any live performances or art showcases happening that evening.

day 7
Historical Walking Tour
morning
:

Start your morning with a walking tour of Ottawa’s historical sites, including the Château Laurier and Rideau Hall. Discover fascinating stories behind each landmark.

afternoon
:

Break for lunch at a historic café. Continue your exploration by visiting the Bytown Museum to learn about Ottawa’s past.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a restaurant that offers a variety of local dishes inspired by Ottawa's multicultural heritage. Take an evening stroll by the canal to unwind.

day 8
Festival Fun Day
morning
:

If visiting during festival season, begin your day exploring local festivals like Winterlude or Fireworks Festival. Participate in fun activities and enjoy the festive atmosphere.

afternoon
:

Snack on festival food while wandering through booths and exhibits. Join in on workshops or watch live performances.

evening
:

Finish your day with a special dinner at a restaurant with multicultural influences. Cap the night off by watching the festival's closing fireworks show.

day 9
Shopping & Entertainment Day
morning
:

Start with a leisurely breakfast at a trendy café in the downtown area. Take some time to shop at local boutiques and artisanal shops.

afternoon
:

After shopping, take a break at a nearby park or grab lunch at a popular eatery. Consider visiting one of Ottawa’s art galleries for an afternoon of culture.

evening
:

Enjoy a fun dinner at a lively restaurant and check out what entertainment options are available for the night, whether it’s live music or a comedy show.

Discover Ottawa

Read more in our Ottawa 2024 Travel Guide.

Ottawa Travel Guide