Ottawa, Canada's capital, is often seen as just a governmental hub, but this thriving city has so much more to offer. Its rich history, evident in iconic landmarks like the Gothic Parliament buildings and UNESCO World Heritage canal, adds to its charm. Surprisingly, Ottawa's weekend scene is a revelation, with a diverse food culture, multicultural atmosphere, and a vibrant nightlife that rivals its larger Canadian counterparts.
In recent years, Ottawa has been making strides to shed its image as a secondary city to Montreal and Toronto. The city is investing in major infrastructure projects, such as the multibillion-dollar light-rail line, which is set to improve transportation within Ottawa and its surrounding areas. This revitalization couldn't come at a better time, as Ottawa prepares to celebrate Canada's 150th birthday this year.
1. Exploring Parliament Hill, 3 P.M.
While often frequented by tourists, a visit to Parliament Hill in Ottawa is an experience not to be missed. As you ascend, you'll be greeted by the charming copper-topped turrets and intricately designed facade of the Centre Block, a stunning example of Gothic Revival architecture that serves as Canada's Parliament. Rather than opting for a guided tour, take advantage of the complimentary elevator ride to the top of the Peace Tower (advance tickets required). At an impressive height of 302.5 feet, this vantage point offers panoramic views of Ottawa and its neighboring city, Gatineau in Quebec, which can be observed across the picturesque Ottawa River.
Feel immersed in the rich history and political significance of the nation as you stroll along the grounds of Parliament Hill. Discover the historical importance of this iconic landmark, while gaining a deeper understanding of Canada's democratic foundations. Marvel at the stunning views of the cityscape and river, enhancing your visit with a unique perspective of Ottawa's beauty.
2. A Glimpse into the Past, 5 P.M.
The World Heritage recognized by Unesco, the Rideau Canal features an impressive 126-mile network of waterways and locks, completed in 1832, extending from Ottawa to Lake Ontario. When winter arrives, the canal transforms into a massive, glistening outdoor ice rink. To fully appreciate its grandeur, head over to Major’s Hill Park, where the grassy elevated land offers breathtaking views of the Ottawa River and Parliament, particularly beautiful at sundown. Additional interesting feature of Ottawa is the nearby Château Laurier. Modeled after a castle, this railway hotel first opened its doors in 1912. Within its walls, just beyond the lobby, you'll find a collection of portraits by local photographer Yousuf Karsh. The collection includes his infamous 1941 image of a grimacing Winston Churchill, captured moments after Karsh had taken the P.M.’s cigar away.
A statue of Sir Wilfrid Laurier sits near the East Block, part of Parliament Hill.
3. A Night of Power Soiree, 6:30 P.M.
The political heartbeat of Ottawa pulsates within the walls of the Métropolitain, a gem imbued with Parisian flair and famed as an oyster bar, as the working day concludes. Hill Hour lures politicians, aides and the intellectual architects of policy in great numbers from Parliament, making the hours between 4 and 7 on weeknights particularly vibrant. Park yourself at the bar with history encased in its vintage zinc, and become a discreet audience to the unfolding narratives of political dynamics while savoring the taste of Prince Edward Island oysters (priced at 1.50 Canadian dollars, or $1.12). Complement this with beers lavishly brewed at our local Kichesippi. Bar staff, charming in their carefully ironed vests, ensure the flow of drinks is unabated and punctuate the palpable anticipation as the bilingual discourse of our patrons in English and French escalates with the fading daylight.
4. Culinary Extravaganza, 8 P.M.
The glitz of urban sophistication finds a home off Parliament Hill at the Riviera. This gastronomic gem, which started its journey in 2016, is nestled within the aesthetics of an Art Deco bank edifice. The bank's original vault breathes an opulent second life as the wine cellar. Inside sway a fluctuating petite menu to cater to a classy clientele, all under high-reaching 50-foot ceilings adorned with brass fixtures. Secure a seat by the kitchen bar and indulge in the luscious starters like tuna crudo with crispy puffed quinoa (priced at 18 Canadian dollars) or delectable black truffle shavings atop perfectly toasted bread (also 18 dollars). After a delightful start, proceed to taste the phenomenal homemade pasta or the smoked short ribs lying on a bed of white-corn polenta (for 32 dollars). The impressive catalogue of wines is beautifully paired with innovative cocktail offerings, such as the Jockey Full of Bourbon featuring Buffalo Trace Bourbon, Taylor Fladgate Port, and Ancho Reyes liqueur (for 14 dollars). After the magnificent culinary journey, walk down to Elgin Street, which is brimming with many taverns as well as some of the city's top-notch dining establishments. Don't miss the constant queue outside the Manx, an intimate subterranean pub offering local beers, including the mildly bitter Broadhead Wildcard, an Ottawa ale that the locals rave about.
Saturday.
5. Heading to the Baker's Oven, 10 A.M.
What would draw one to an exposed industrial strip on a freezing Saturday morning? The answer is Ottawa's unrivaled baked delicacies. Amid the wafting aroma of freshly-baked bread, almond croissants, mouthwatering brioche, and scrumptious scones, you'll find patrons eagerly queuing outside the Art-Is-In Bakery. This beloved establishment is the creation of the gifted French-taught pastry chef, Kevin Mathieson. On weekend mornings, this vibrant and lively venue swells with customers who specifically visit for Mathieson's "dynamite baguettes" – encased in a beautifully-blistered crust that encloses a treasure-trove of air pockets – and his unique white sourdough bread. Equally popular is the breakfast sandwich on offer at the cafe, available on buttermilk, sourdough or the signature "crazy grain" bread option for 6.95 Canadian dollars. If you've still got room for dessert, the gargantuan, sinfully decadent "Kronuts" are priced at only 4.25 dollars, ensuring your food exploration remains within budget while offering an exotic taste explosion.
6. Emerging Local Haven, Noon
Wellington West, formerly known for its rundown houses and unimpressive commercial spaces, has blossomed into one of the most sought-after districts in Ottawa. At Maker House Co., you can discover unconventional pieces of art, furniture, and home goods, largely sourced locally, like cardstock deer heads that customers assemble themselves using an interesting origami approach. Apart from this, the neighborhood also features Hintonburg Pottery, owned by renowned ceramicist Ginger McCoy, famous for her turquoise-colored pots and support for local artists. Make a pause at Tooth and Nail, a brewing hub that serves specially-crafted beers to its flannel-clad clientele. Their most popular brew, Solo Mission, is a vibrant, peach-infused, single-hopped pale ale, perfect for a refreshing midday halt.
The interior of Art-Is-In Bakery.
7. Culinary Exploration at the Market, 3 P.M.
Historically constructed to house the workforce of Ottawa's 19th-century canal construction project, the area known as the ByWard Market today hosts an eclectic mix of bars, dance clubs, gourmet stores and boutique shops. Don't miss the 1926 Market Square building, home to Moulin de Provence - a French bakery known for its delectable pastries and authentic Québécois specialties such as tourtière, a savory pie filled with minced pork and beef. Nearby, dairy enthusiasts won't be able to resist the fragrant allure of House of Cheese, which houses a collection of top-tier cheeses including the award-winning aged Lankaaster from Ontario and essential cheese curds for assembling your own poutine. A few steps away, Stubbe Chocolates tempts with chocolate bars, truffles, and their acclaimed stollen, handcrafted by the skilled chocolatier Heinrich Stubbe himself for nearly three decades. For the sweet-toothed seeking the quintessentially Canadian indulgence, make a beeline for the original BeaverTails kiosk to nab their famed deep-fried, whole-wheat pastries, adorned with a myriad of toppings from cinnamon sugar to chocolate hazelnut. This local delicacy garnered an enthusiastic following here before it found fame on an international scale.
8. A Taste of Diplomacy, 8 P.M.
Located directly across from the US Embassy, Play Food & Wine is the more laid-back sibling to the famed Beckta restaurant in Ottawa. This small-plates eatery, curated by the duo Stephen Beckta and Michael Moffatt, is a local favorite and sprawls across two levels. You can begin your gastronomic journey with a delicately spiced cauliflower and apple soup, enhanced by the flavors of curry and apple cardamom chutney, charmingly presented in a teacup at a price of 9 Canadian dollars. Proceed next to a classic hanger steak served with frites, priced at 17 dollars. The culinary adventure doesn't stop there. For dessert, savor the white cheddar apple crumble; its sweet and savoury appeal is furthered by the addition of candied bacon, priced at 9 dollars. For those who enjoy pairing their dessert with a suitable drink, a dessert wine flight, comprising three one-ounce glasses, is available at 20 dollars.
9. Savor Nights on High and Low Grounds, 9 P.M.
Situated atop the trendy Andaz hotel, the Copper offers a clandestine rooftop platform that perfectly fills Ottawa's need for such a hotspot. The dim lighting enhances your experience of the sparkling urban nightscape, especially while delighting in their signature 16th-Floor Martini that's elegant concoction of locally sourced Top Shelf Vodka garnished with blue-cheese stuffed olives (priced at 17 Canadian dollars). Descend to street level and continue the evening at the Château Lafayette, a historic tavern dating back to 1849, also affectionately known as the Laff. Here, you can indulge in a boisterous atmosphere, enjoy live music and savor the local favorite - Labatt 50, served in classic quart bottles. Located in the vicinity, the labyrinthine Heart & Crown pub comprises a network of five distinct bars spread across a city block, each connected by a maze of doorways, shadowy corridors and staircases. In a recent visit, a local band was spotted playing classic Irish folk tunes in one part of the establishment, while vintage hip-hop vibes accompanied by a skilled DJ resonated in another wing.
Sunday
10. A Hidden Gem of Art, 10 A.M.
An impressive, ginormous bronze arachnid greets you as you approach the National Gallery (entry fee, 12 Canadian dollars), typically a hub for Canadian artistic craftsmanship. Yet, refurbishments have temporarily shut down these galleries till midterm May. Fearless visitors, nonetheless, will stumble upon one of the greatest compilations of contemporary Inuit works housed on a subterranean floor. Sculptures designed using stone, whale bone, walrus ivory, wood, and antler present a unique perspective of the Far North. Recognizable animal shapes morph into unanticipated mythical beasts, such as Kiugak Ashoona’s Bird Creature, an amalgamation of bird, crab, and man, chiselled from vibrant green serpentine.
11. Retail Therapy at NorthDal, 12 PM
North end of Dalhousie Street, or NorthDal, is your destination post-lunch for a shopping spree. This strip has seen burgeoning local designers setting up stores here, thanks to affordable rental spaces. Stop by Workshop for tastefully Canadian silk-screened tees, with prints from vintage snowshoes to wolves’ howls (35 dollars). Further up the road, you'll discover Goods, selling locally made prints, candles, and ceramics, including Nina Marchewka's unique mugs (40 dollars). Take a break from shopping with a delightful mix of chai and local Hall’s apple cider, famously known as chai-der, at the popular Bridgehead cafe chain. The ultimate spot, however, is Victoire, an essential visit for its bold Canadian styles, catering to "well-behaved rebellious girls".
12. The Other Half, 2 P.M.
A brisk walk over the Alexandra Bridge, a railway span completed in 1900, leads to Gatineau, the Francophone half of Canada’s National Capital Region. There, the Canadian Museum of History (admission, 15 Canadian dollars) is largely under renovation until July, but it is worth a peek inside to see the Grand Hall. Towering totem poles from Haida Gwaii and the Pacific Coast stand beside a curving, six-story wall of windows, keeping silent sentry over the river.
Lodging
ALT Ottawa, opened this year with 148 rooms is an affordable, minimalist chic offering in the downtown business district, a few blocks from Parliament Hill (althotels.com/en/ottawa; 154 Canadian dollars). Unfinished concrete and high ceilings lend a stylish, industrial vibe to rooms, but the big perk is the liberal late checkout policy when you book direct.
For those interested in exploring further accommodation options across the province, additional information can be found at http://www.quebechotels.info/en/, providing a vast array of choices for every traveler's needs and budget.
Château Laurier, now run by the Fairmont group, has for more than a century offered luxury accommodations in the heart of the city, just next door to Parliament and the Rideau Canal. Soaring turrets, Tiffany windows and grand ballrooms reflect its heritage as one of Canada’s grand railway hotels.
To discover more top-rated accommodations throughout Canada, from the bustling streets of Toronto to the majestic mountain ranges of British Columbia, visit tophotels.com. This resource showcases a curated selection of hotels, ensuring that no matter where you are in this vast country, you can find the perfect place to stay.