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Perhaps many people wouldn't choose Ottawa for their next vacation trip or getaway because they think of it as a not interesting place to travel to. As a matter of fact, the city offers the... |
Perhaps many people wouldn’t choose Ottawa for their next vacation trip or getaway because they think of it as a not interesting place to travel to. As a matter of fact, the city offers the tourists as well its local population plenty of great things to see and do.
Rich in architecture, history, museums and attractions, Ottawa comes alive with Canadian culture and houses many sporting events and activities. You will definitely love to include this place to your vacation list and experience especially if you’re through with just strolling around on the beach.
Ottawa is the capital city of Canada and is the fourth largest one in the country. It is part of the overall National Capital Region and is located in the province of Ontario. It is where the federal government of Canada can be found. With almost 1 million residents, Ottawa’s population is officially bilingual and all public services are available in English and French. Every year, the city welcomes over 6 million visitors who discover how Canada came into existence and how it was inhabited by British and French explorers.
The Ottawa Parliament Buildings
Ottawa has probably the biggest collection of Canadian cultural and historical sites which include national museums, government buildings, monuments, heritage structures, and official residences. All the sites and museums are very informative and interesting to every traveler who wishes to learn something new. You can visit The National Gallery of Canada, The Canadian War Museum, The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, The Royal Canadian Mint, and The Canada Aviation Museum to name a few.
But the most noteworthy and popular spot to visit is the Ottawa Parliament Buildings which serve as the home of the Canadian government since 1866. The Parliament Hill, or “The Hill” as local people term it, is a picturesque site lying on the banks of Ottawa River. The buildings are significantly historic and built in the Gothic Revival style. Seniors will surely appreciate the suite of buildings with its impressive layout and design rich in architectural details. Tours are very much available.
One of the greatest occasions to have a visit to the Parliament Buildings would be on July 1st which is the Canada Day. Lots of activities take place during this event, such as street parties, athletic shows, aerial maneuvers, live music, the RCMP Musical Ride, Changing of the Guard Ceremony, main fireworks event, and many more grand events that are really worth attending.
The Rideau Canal
Both the boaters during summer and skaters during winter will certainly take pleasure in the beauty of the Rideau Canal. Recognized as North America’s oldest and constantly operated canal system, Rideau Canal was labeled as a World Heritage site and extends 125 miles reaching the lakes and rivers of Kingston and Ontario. Interested tourists can visit the Bytown Museum which is devoted to the canal’s history and construction.
Being one of the most well-known recreational areas in Ottawa, the Rideau Canal offers the travelers to either enjoy a boat tour or a peaceful drive alongside. There are also pathways for those who want to walk, jog, or ride a bicycle. But the most famous aspect of the canal comes into view during winter months when it turns into the biggest outdoor ice-skating rink in the world.
Skates can be rented here so you don’t have to bring your own. Perhaps the grandest time to visit the Rideau Canal is during the Winterlude Festival which takes place every weekends of February. This is considered as the greatest winter celebration in North America and offers definitely fun and exciting activities for the whole family.
Indeed, a vacation in Ottawa will give you a constant supply of knowledge about the culture and history of Canada as well as an entertaining experience you surely wouldn’t want to miss.