Ottawa

Ottawa [1] is the capital of Canada. The city is situated along the Ontario side of the Ottawa River, opposite Gatineau, Quebec. The metropolitan population of Ottawa is 1.1 million and is currently the fourth largest city in Canada, and the second largest in Ontario after Toronto.
Unique as a North American capital, the city is bilingual. English is the first language of a majority of the population, but French is the first language of a significant number. Staff in most stores and restaurants speak both well and, in general, bilingualism is common.
Ottawa is home to many of the world's cultures as thousands of immigrants from around the world now call Ottawa home. The city is probably best known as the nation's capital but has become one of the fastest growing cities in North America owing to the booming high-tech business sector.

[edit] Understand

The National War Memorial near Parliament Hill

Ottawa started as a humble lumber town, then called Bytown, named after Colonel John By. Colonel By oversaw the construction of the Rideau Canal, now a UNESCO World Heritage site, much of which was done by hand, between 1826 and 1832. Lumber mills were built along the Ottawa River in the mid-nineteenth century and those brought employment and wealth to the growing population. The centre of action then, as now, was the ByWard Market. While it's still the centre of the city's nightlife, it has changed appreciably from the rough and tumble early days of brothels and taverns.
In 1857, Queen Victoria chose Ottawa as the capital of Canada. The choice was controversial, partly because it sidestepped the rivalry between Toronto and Montreal (then, as now, Canada's largest cities), and partly because the new capital was still a tiny outpost in the middle of nothing much — an American newspaper famously commented that it was impregnable, as any invaders would get lost in the woods looking for it.
During the latter half of the nineteenth century, the telephone was demonstrated to the Canadian public for the first time and the city was electrified. The first electric streetcar service was started in 1891. A menu from 1892 states that, "the first instance in the entire world of an entire meal being cooked by Electricity" was in Ottawa.
Today, the major economic sectors are the public service, travel and tourism and the high-tech industry. Nortel Networks, a company that built a significant part of the backbone of the world's internet, maintains large research and development facilities in the region on Moodie Dr at Carling Avenue. Ottawa has proudly remained a green city and is situated at the confluence of three rivers (Ottawa, Rideau and Gatineau) as well as the Rideau canal. Many residents make regular use of Ottawa's parks and green spaces, bikeways and cross country ski trails. Many national attractions are located in Ottawa: Parliament Hill; the National Library and Archives; the National Gallery; as well as the Museums of Civilization, Contemporary Photography, Nature, War and Science & Technology.

[edit] Climate

Climate	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Daily highs (°C)	-6	-4	2	11	19	24	26	25	20	13	5	-3
Nightly lows (°C)	-15	-13	-7	1	8	13	16	14	10	4	-2	-10
Precipitation (mm)	64	52	65	68	81	91	89	88	87	79	77	74
See the Ottawa 7 day forecast at Environment Canada

[edit] Visitor information

• Capital Information Kiosk, at 111 Albert Street at Metcalfe (in the World Exchange Plaza), ☎ +1 613 239-5000 (toll free: +1 800-465-1867), [2].  edit

[edit] Get in

[edit] By plane

The newly renovated and expanded Macdonald-Cartier International Airport [3] (IATA: YOW) is Ottawa's main airport with regular arrivals and departures from most major Canadian and many American cities. Services outside North America, however, are limited to a daily flight to London Heathrow and a daily flight to Frankfurt with Air Canada. Air France, KLM, and Swiss International Airlines provide shuttle bus service between Ottawa and Montreal that facilitate connections with their flights operated from Trudeau International Airport. This trip takes about two hours. Via Rail also operates a shuttle bus from the Dorval train station to nearby Trudeau International Airport. This free shuttle service allows one to travel from Ottawa to Dorval (a suburb of Montreal) by rail, and then transfer directly to the airport on a dedicated on-demand bus.
Macdonald-Cartier is easily reached by public transit or taxi and most of the major car rental agencies have a presence at the airport terminal in the parking garage. A taxi to downtown hotels should cost between $20. and $30., while a taxi to nearby hotels should not cost more than $10.. YOW Airporter [4] operates a mini-bus shuttle to most downtown hotels for $14 one-way and $24 return.
To reach downtown via public transit, take the #97 bus (the only bus at the airport) and get out at the Mackenzie King transitway stop (14 stops away) at the Rideau Centre shopping mall. If you take this route before 6:00AM, you will likely follow the more meandering early morning route but will still get to Mackenzie King. To get to the train station, you still take the #97 bus but get out at Hurdman station (10 stops away) and transfer to the #95 eastbound bus to the next stop which is the train station. The bus fare is $3.25 ($2.60 with pre-purchased tickets) which gives you 1.5 hours of unlimited bus travel or $7.50 for an all-day pass. Exact change is required, Remember to ask the bus driver for a transfer even if you do not intend on transferring to another bus--OC Transpo security personnel may get on the bus at any given stop and ask passengers for proof of payment. You will be required to show your transfer or else you will be fined. It doesn't happen often, but when it does, it can be embarrassing and expensive.

[edit] By bus

There is a Voyageur/Greyhound [5] terminal in Ottawa with regular service to Montreal (departure on the hour from 6 a.m. to midnight), Toronto and all other cities in North America. The bus terminal is downtown on the corner of Catherine Street and Kent Street, between Bronson Avenue and Bank Street. Though the bus terminal is downtown, a 15-20 minute walk will get you to most hotels and downtown attractions. Alternatively, a 5-10 minute local bus ride will do the same. (Bus #4, with its stop around the corner from the terminal on Kent Street, is the bus that you will want to take.)
Greyhound busses coming from Montreal also usually make an intermediary "University of Ottawa" stop (actually at Laurier Station near the corner of Laurier Avenue East and Waller Street) and stop before going to the Catherine Street terminal. This stop is closer walking distance to the Byward Market, the Rideau Canal, and Parliament Hill, and is a more central city transit hub. It may be necessary to request the stop with the driver.
A taxi to most downtown hotels should cost between $8 and $15, and buses are $3.25 one-way ($2.50 with pre-purchased tickets) or $7.50 (purchased only on the bus) for an all-day pass.

[edit] By train

Passenger train service is run by VIA Rail [6] in Canada and the main train station in Ottawa, Ottawa Station (IATA: XDS) [7], is less than ten minutes from downtown by car, taxi or bus. There are six trains daily leaving for Montreal and intermediate points, with five trains daily to Toronto and points in between. Service is reduced on Saturday, Sundays and holidays.
Ottawa has two train stations, the Ottawa Station near downtown, and a secondary station, Fallowfield Station [8], in the western suburb of Barrhaven, convenient for Nepean and Kanata points. All trains to Toronto stop at Fallowfield; two of the six weekday trains to Montreal originate or terminate at Fallowfield.
Ottawa Station is on a high frequency bus route (#94 or #95) and takes only 5 minutes to get you downtown, heading west. Fallowfield station is also on the #95 bus route but at the far south-west end.
It is possible to get downtown from the main train station on foot, although it requires a bit of navigation. This path should not be taken alone after dark and may be flooded after periods of intense rain or snow melting. Have a street map with you so you can locate yourself once you have reached Strathcona Park. The station to Strathcona Park takes about half an hour (2.5km). Another half hour from the Park to downtown. A map is available online [9].

1. On exiting the station, walk along the west (left-hand) arm of the vehicle loop and across the Transitway bridge.
2. Before reaching Tremblay Road, take the bike path to your left going west.
3. The path will take you along the bus lanes and will pass over Riverside Drive.
4. You will merge with a path coming up from Riverside Drive; continue walking west, away from the street.
5. Shortly after that, you will come to a fork; go right (north) and continue until you see a pedestrian bridge on your left.
6. Take the pedestrian bridge over the Rideau River.
7. Immediately after the pedestrian bridge, turn right towards the north.
8. Take the paved bike path, go under the highway bridge and keep following the Rideau River northward for about 1 km.
9. Once you reach the end of of the path, you are in Strathcona Park.
10. Use a street map or an on-line map service to find your way from Strathcona Park to your downtown destination; at the north end of the park is Laurier Avenue, a major east-west street; parallel to it and several blocks north is Rideau Street.

[edit] By boat

Sailing up the Rideau Canal

The city is also accessible via the Rideau Canal, now recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage site [10], and which runs from the St. Lawrence River at Kingston to the Ottawa River at Ottawa where it empties via a series of locks. It is possible to dock at Dow's Lake Pavilion and at points along the Rideau Canal and Ottawa River near downtown.

[edit] By car

By car, Ottawa is about a 4.5 hour trip from Toronto via the 401 and 416 highways, or via highway 7. Montreal is 2 hours away via highway 417. The American border at Ogdensburg, NY is only 45 minutes away to the south, and the border at I-81 is a little further west at an additional 1 hour drive.

[edit] Get around

[edit] Public transit

The city's public transit is run by OC Transpo [11] and includes the bus service as well as the O-Train light rail system. The network includes the Transitway, a bus rapid transit system running through and out of downtown, with frequent service (on the order of 1 to 2 minutes, depending on your stop and final destination, at rush hour).
The bus fare for regular routes is $3.25 or two tickets. Tickets cost $1.30 each and are available from local stores in sheets of six (but some stores will sell smaller numbers at a time). Children 6 to 11 years of age require only one ticket. Upon boarding, make sure that you are given a transfer, which allows you to ride any number of buses or trains until its expiry (in roughly 1.5 hours). A day pass can be purchased on any bus for $7.50 and is good for both buses and the train. On Sundays, families (up to two adults and four children, age 11 and under) can share a day pass.
The O-Train operates on a "Proof of Payment" (POP) system. Valid proof of payment is a bus transfer (see above), or an O-Train ticket purchased from the automated vending machines for $2.75. Note that the vending machine does not accept bus tickets, nor are bus tickets acceptable proof of payment. Children 11 and under can ride the O-Train for free. Articulated buses (the long ones) use this same POP system as well, where rear boarding is available to pass holders.
Although the downtown is very walkable, if you are within the downtown area (Lebreton station to Campus station), you can take any bus going east-west. If you are going to the ByWard Market from the Transitway (#95, #96, #97, #85, #86, #87), get off at Rideau Centre and walk through the mall to the other end. To go North-South, take the #4 (to Catherine Street, edge of Centretown), the #7 (edge of Old Ottawa South) or the #1 (all the way down Bank Street to Ottawa South).
The Ottawa Transitway (dedicated roads on which only buses are allowed) offers speedy travel to outlying areas, where you can then transfer over to local buses, if walking is not an option.
Although not designed as a tourist route, it so happens that the #3 route will take you to some special parts of Ottawa, such as the Experimental Farm, Dow's Lake, the War Museum and Lebreton flats, Wellington and Rideau streets, ByWard Market, and within a block of Rideau Hall.

[edit] By taxi

Taxis are easy to find downtown; elsewhere, phone for a cab. All taxis should have a meter and the base charge is $2.45. A ride from downtown to the airport will be costly, running between $25 and C$35. Cabs will not take credit cards for fares below $10. Most cab drivers know Ottawa well, but have clear instructions if you're going anywhere in the suburbs as many developments in the outskirts are relatively new. Ottawa cabs aren't supposed to pick up customers off the street on the Quebec side; the converse applies to Quebec cabs in Ottawa. You may phone a Quebec cab if you are in Ottawa and vice versa.

[edit] By car

Parking at most attractions is convenient, though on-street parking in downtown areas is sometimes at a premium. If you are driving to downtown on the weekend, parking is free in the garage at the World Exchange Plaza. There are entrances to the garage on both Metcalfe Street and Queen Street. A map is useful if you are going to be driving around downtown as many of the streets are one-way and more than one visitor has complained about navigating the downtown core.
Most major car rental companies have several offices in Ottawa with all of them represented downtown and at the airport.

[edit] On foot

Ottawa is a great city to explore on foot. With pedestrian-friendly streets and the density of attractions, a car is expensive and unnecessary for the most part. An excellent place to start any tour of Ottawa is the Capital Information Kiosk, located at 111 Albert Street in the World Exchange Plaza. They have maps and brochures for most tourist attractions in Ottawa, many of which are within walking distance.
Popular pedestrian areas, especially during spring and summer months, are the various streets in the ByWard Market. Sparks Street, running through downtown parallel to the Parliament Buildings, is a popular pedestrian area during the day and night, particularly in the spring and summer months.
Guided walking tours are available with Ottawa Walking Tours [12]and others such as Around About Ottawa [13]. There is so much to see and do in the Nation's Capital that a tour guide will maximize a visitor's time and experience in this beautiful city. All tours include some history as well as other tidbits of trivia not commonly known. Especially popular is the Haunted Walk of Ottawa[14] that provides a variety of walking tours focusing on the city's darker and more offbeat past.
Remember, Ottawa is a city with a truly continental climate. In winter, exposed skin can freeze in minutes or less, so layer up on the clothing and protect yourself by wearing a hat (toque or hunters cap), gloves and boots. Despite being closer to the North Pole than the equator, summer temperature and humidity can be oppressively high, so bring water if you're doing any amount of walking or cycling. If you are on the public pathways near the canal or the river, there are drinking fountains to refill your bottles. Also, don't forget the mosquito repellent.

[edit] By bicycle

There are usually a few options for renting bicycles downtown [15], and of course you can always bring your own. Ottawa is very accessible to cyclists. Again, you may want to start immediately opposite Parliament Hill to pick up a map of the area or find a bicycle rental. Cycling to the attractions around downtown Ottawa is a great way to get around, but don't ignore the Gatineau side of the river. They have several attractions along the river including the Museum of Civilization and if you want to really stretch your legs, Gatineau Park has many great cycling paths.
The city is criss-crossed by over 170km of bicycle paths, some of which are shared with motorists, and some are shared with pedestrians. The city provides Interactive Pathways and Other Maps [16]. In addition, the city closes 50 km of roadways to cars every Sunday during the summer from Victoria Day to Labour Day allowing for cycling, in-line skating and walking on these roadways.
OC Transpo has bicycle racks on the front of many buses. You can load your bike on the rack and then ride the bus for the normal passenger fare. The O-Train will take bikes as well.

[edit][add listing] See

There are many national museums and galleries in Ottawa and neighbouring Gatineau. All museums in Ottawa have free admission on Canada Day, July 1, although they are generally very crowded then.

Parliament Hill, Canada's house of democracy

• Parliament Hill, [17]. The primary attraction for most visitors is Parliament Hill. Parliament Hill is in the middle of downtown Ottawa, overlooking the Ottawa River. Not only is the building a fine example of the Gothic revival style, it makes an excellent starting point to visit all other points of interest in the area. Tours of the building are available daily with multiple tours (in both official languages) available at staggered times throughout the day. If you have a group of greater than 10 people, you must make a reservation in advance by calling the reservations office at +1 613 996-0896. The Centre Block tour is the most popular as it includes inside views of the House of Commons, the Senate, and the newly renovated Library of Parliament. Same-day tickets are free and available on a first-come-first-served basis from 9:00 AM. Pick up your ticket as early as possible to have the best chance of securing a start time that works for you. Tours last from 20 to 60 minutes depending on building activity. From July 2 to Labour Day (early September), tours of the East Block are also available; tour guides take you through the restored offices of some of the Fathers of Confederation (Sir John A. Macdonald, Sir George-Etienne Cartier, Governor General Lord Dufferin and the original Privy Council Office) explaining the beginnings of the Dominion of Canada while historical characters let you in on the daily lives of Canada's past politicians. Tours last about an hour and free same-day tickets can be picked up at the Info-tent on the Hill by West Block. If there are no more tickets available, or you have to wait for your time, a fine self-guided walking tour around the grounds of Parliament Hill will keep you busy. Free booklets are available at the visitors' centre. One of the nicer, unexpected views, looking from the bottom up, can be accessed at the back of the Parliament Buildings -- that vantage point also provides a river view of the Canadian Museum of Civilization, across the river in downtown Gatineau (a sector that was formerly the city of Hull). The walk down from the southwest corner of the Centre Block allows visitors to visit the Hill cats, a group of feral animals housed there by volunteers. Behind the Parliament Buildings at sunset is a sight to remember. You can walk by the Rideau Canal locks (at the east corner) and visit the Bytown Museum at the level of the canal. The locks divide Parliament Hill from the Fairmont Chateau Laurier, a former railway hotel. This hotel once housed the offices of CBC Radio in Ottawa as well as the studio of well-known portrait photographer Yousuf Karsh. Several framed Karsh photographs are hung in the hotel lounge. His (and his wife's) home suite is now available for guests and displays a small sampling of framed prints on the walls.  edit
• Mosaika Parliament Hill Sound & Light Show, [18]. Newly developed for 2010 by the National Capital Commission, the Sound & Light Show is a 30 minute film about Canada projected on the Centre Block of the Parliament Buildings. Bleacher seating is available and no reservations or tickets are required. There is one show nightly until September at 21:30.  edit

Museum of Civilization, across the river in Gatineau

• Canadian War Museum, [19]. Moved to a new building west of downtown in 2005 but still within walking distance of the downtown attractions, the museum presents Canada's involvement in armed conflict beginning with battles between the French and British, through to the World Wars, Korea, and the country's current involvement in NATO and UN operations. Admission is $12 for adults. A joint War Museum and Museum of Civilization ticket can be purchased for $18. Admission is free on Th after 6PM.  edit
• Museum of Civilization, [20]. This museum presents the story of Canada's population beginning with Aboriginal migration across the Bering Strait through European settlement by the Vikings around 1000 CE, and the British and French in the 1500s. The museum is full of a variety of items ranging from full size Salish totem poles to the recreation of a small prairie town complete with grain elevator. The museum also includes an exhibit on Canada Post and a separate museum for children. Admission is $10 for adulta. A joint War Museum and Museum of Civilization ticket can be purchased for $15. Admission is free on Th after 4PM.  edit

Jacques Plante's Goalie Mask on display in the Science and Technology Museum

• Science and Technology Museum, [21]. The museum has several displays that are popular with children, including massive locomotives inside the building and electricity demonstrations.  edit
• Canadian Museum of Nature, [22]. Galleries of fossils, mammals, birds and geology among others.  edit

National Gallery of Canada

• National Gallery, 380 Sussex Dr, ☎ +1 613 990-1985, [23]. Free admission Th after 5PM.  edit
• Supreme Court of Canada, [24]. Canada's highest court and the best example in Ottawa of Art Deco architecture. Its marble Grand Entrance Hall is particularly impressive. Visitor reservations are required during low season (September 1 to April 30). Free.  edit
• Royal Canadian Mint, [25].  edit
• Canada Aviation Museum, [26].  edit
• Bank of Canada Currency Museum, [27]. Free.  edit
• Canada Agriculture Museum, 861 Prince of Wales Dr, ☎ +1 613 991-3044 (toll free: +1 866 442-4416), [28]. Exhibitions: 9AM-5PM daily late Feb-late Nov. Animal barns: 9AM-5PM daily all year. A working animal farm in the city. You can visit animal barns, see various demonstrations and exhibitions, and ride on a horse-drawn wagon. The museum also has a playground and picnic area. It is very popular with young children and a welcome change of pace for kids who have seen enough history after visiting some of the other sights. $7 adults, $6 students/seniors, $4 children 3-14, $16 families (2 adults and 3 children), free for children under 3. Seniors free on Tu. Admission to animal barns is by donation during time of year when the exhibitions are closed.  edit
• Bytown Museum, 1 Canal Ln (at the Rideau Canal locks between Parliament Hill and Chateau Laurier), ☎ +1 613 234-4570, [29]. Victoria Day weekend-Thanksgiving Day: F-W 10AM-5PM, Th 10AM-9PM. Rest of year: Tu-Su 11AM-4PM. A small museum at the foot of Parliament Hill with a focus on Ottawa's early history. $6 adults, $4 seniors/students/youth, $3 children 5-12, $15 families (2 adults plus three children under 18), free for children 4 and under. Free admission Th 5PM-9PM from Victoria Day-Thanksgiving Day.  edit
• Rideau Hall, 1 Sussex Dr, ☎ +1 613 991-4422 (toll free: +1 866 842-4422), [30]. Residence tour (without reservations): Apr 30-Jun 26: Sa-Su 10AM-4PM, Jun 27-Sep 5: 10AM-4PM daily (unguided open-house tours available Jul-Aug), Sep 6-Oct 30: Sa-Su noon-4PM. Advance reservations required for tours at any time from Nov-Apr, and weekdays May-Jun and Sep-6-Oct 30. Grounds tour: 8AM-1 hour before sunset daily. The official residence of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II and her representative the Governor General of Canada. The grounds and the residence are open to the public for tours. Reservations are recommended during low season (September 1 - April 30). Free.  edit
• Diefenbunker - Canada's Cold War Museum, 3911 Carp Rd, Carp (from Ottawa, take Hwy 417 west to exit 144, then go north on Carp Rd), ☎ +1 800 409-1965, [31]. Self-guided tours 11AM-4PM daily (opens at 10:30AM during summer. Open on W until 9PM during spring and fall. Times for guided tours vary by season). Built to protect the government from nuclear attack, this once-secret bunker is now a museum and National Historic Site of Canada. In addition to preserving and promoting Canada's Cold War history, the museum offers a variety of visitor programs and services. You can learn, play or shop as you discover the bunker's secrets and relive the experience of the Cold War. Guided tours by reservation only. A unique attraction, well worth the visit. $14 adults, $13 seniors, $10 students , $8 youth 6-18, $40 families (2 adults plus 3 youth), free for children 5 and under.  edit

Museum of Civilization - Atrium

For the sports fan, Ottawa has professional sports teams:

• Ottawa Senators [32] -- National Hockey League (NHL)
• Ottawa 67's [33] -- Ontario Hockey League (OHL)
• Ottawa Fury [34] -- USL Premier Development League
• Ottawa Harlequins [35] -- Rugby Canada Super League

[edit][add listing] Do

Explore the Nation's Capital as it was meant to be seen-up close and on foot. There are a number of great walking tours to introduce you to the capital area. Ottawa Walking Tours [36] offers historical guided walks of Ottawa's downtown core with special stops at areas of historical signifigance. Tours acquaint guests with the history and charm of the city and allow visitors to learn more about Ottawa’s history, architecture, colourful political characters, as well as snap some outstanding photographs. Tours are offered year-round and reservations are required. For more information, call 613-799-1774. The Haunted Walk of Ottawa [37] offers tours focusing on Ottawa's infamous haunts and darker history. Hear tales of hauntings at some of Ottawa's most well known locations, including the Fairmont Chateau Laurier, Bytown Museum and the Ottawa Jail Hostel. Cloaked guides lead guests through the city streets by lantern light-the perfect atmosphere for a good ghost story. Tours run year-round, rain or shine. Reservations are strongly recommended. For more information, call 613-232-0344. [38]
If you enjoy the outdoors, especially if you are a cyclist, you should definitely visit Gatineau Park just across the river from Ottawa. Bicycles can be rented during the summer months at the northeast corner of the Chateau Laurier. Ottawa and the surrounding area boasts over 170km of public paved trails on which you can run, bike, walk or rollerblade. If you are looking for a place to start, head to the nearest waterway: paved trails line both sides of the Ottawa River, the Rideau Canal, and the Rideau River. The Trans Canada Trail [39] enters Ottawa through the outskirt communities of Carleton Place and Stittsville, then joins up with the Ottawa River at Brittania Bay (near Carling Avenue at Bayshore Drive). It follows the river 13 kilometers east to Parliament Hill, then crosses over to the Quebec side, extending into and beyond Gatineau Park.
In winter, go skating on the largest outdoor skating rink in the world, the Rideau canal [40]. Skates can be rented, and refreshments purchased, from vendors right on the ice. This is also a great place to enjoy a "beaver tail" which is a local specialty - a bit like funnel cake, often enjoyed with lemon and sugar. It is very similar to, fried dough. The city's trail system serves as an excellent cross-country ski trail system, as do the nearly 200km of groomed ski trails in Gatineau Park. Downhill skiing is available across the river in three near-by sites: Camp Fortune (180 m vertical), Edelweiss (200 m vertical) and Mont Cascades (165 m vertical).
In early spring (typically March), when the daytime temperatures are above freezing and night temperatures are below freezing, consider visiting a sugarbush for fresh maple syrup. There are many to choose from in the region if you have a car to drive out of the city.
Day trips to Québec
Being located right on the provincial border, daytrips to neighbouring Québec can be made easily.

• Gatineau - Right accross the Ottawa river. World-class Canadian Museum of Civilization is worth a visit. The nightlife in the Old Hull neighbourhood is often considered superior to Ottawa's, with a handful of loud clubs but also a decent offering of artistic cafés with good local live music.

• Wakefield - Picturesque artist town on the side of the Gatineau river. Rich with cultural offerings and beautiful natural surroundings (especially in autumn).

• Aventure Laflèche (819) 457-4033 [41] A superb destination for those interested in outdoor activies in the Gatineau Hills year round. A community-owned non-profit company that offers beautiful nature trails, tours of the historical Laflèche caves, and the province's largest aerial park for the adventurous (includes several ziplines). Calling ahead for reservations is highly recommended.

• Eco-Odyssée (819) 459-2551 [42] Another great option for nature lovers close to Wakefield. A water maze that's great for learning about the local marsh environments.

• Great Canadian Bungee [43] is for the adventurous-inclined.

Film theatres and cinemas
Ottawa has many movie theatres to choose from, but there are also a few that specialize in "foreign" films, early releases, old returning films and specialty films. The Bytowne Cinema is on Rideau Street near King Edward and has a detailed online schedule [44]. The Mayfair Theatre is found at 1074 Bank St. near Sunnyside [45]. In addition, the Canadian Film Institute screens films at the National Library and Archives building on Wellington and is a favourite of the specialist film crowd [46].
Jazz and Blues lovers can find what they are looking for in these Ottawa music calendars: [47] and [48]. Venues include Zoe's at the Chateau Laurier, Vineyards and Chez Lucien in the Market, and the Royal Oak (in Kanata). Find Blues at the Rainbow in the Market, and at Tucson's in Ottawa South on Bank St. at Hunt Club.
Ottawa is host to over 60 festivals and events per year, including:

• Ottawa Jazz Festival [49] in summer.
• Ottawa International Chamber Music Festival [50] in summer, one of the largest in the world
• Bluesfest [51], also in summer: The largest blues festival in Canada, and featuring as well rock, pop and world music. Many visitors come to Ottawa from Atlantic Canada and New England specifically for Bluesfest.
• The Fringe Festival [52], another summer offering.
• Winterlude [53], winter fun featuring ice carving and snow sculptures
• The Tulip Festival [54], a spring bonanza of flowering bulbs, given annually by the Dutch government, as well as a concert series featuring well-known Canadian rock and other popular music groups.
• Ferrari Festival [55] in June, on Preston Street.
• Canada Day [56], celebrate Canada's birthday in Ottawa on July 1st.
• Ottawa has lots of live theatre entertainment. That includes at the National Arts Centre (English [57] and French [58]), the Great Canadian Theatre Company [59], the Ottawa Little Theatre [60], and Tara Players (Irish theatre) [61].
• The National Arts Centre also provides a major venue for Dance and Orchestral performance [62].

[edit] Learn

The two best known universities in the city are Carleton University [63] and the major bilingual and research-intensive University of Ottawa [64]. Bilingual St. Paul's University [65] is a Catholic university with ties to the University of Ottawa, offering various degrees in theology and social sciences. Dominican University College [66] is a Dominican university where theology and philosophy can be studied at the undergraduate and postgraduate levels, also in English or French. There is also Algonquin College [67] and the francophone Cité Collégiale [68].

[edit] Work

The Federal Government is the region's largest employer with the high-tech sector firmly in second place. Unless you are a Canadian resident, you will need a work visa to work in Ottawa, and some Federal Government jobs require Canadian citizenship.

[edit][add listing] Buy

ByWard Market

• The ByWard Market [69] area of downtown Ottawa, located east of the Rideau Canal and the Chateau Laurier, is the area's most popular shopping district. In summer, stalls selling fresh produce and flowers line the streets, but even in the middle of winter there are some hardy vendors braving the cold — and maple syrup bought here costs half the price of souvenir shops elsewhere in the city. In the evening, the market shuts down and the area's restaurants, pubs and bars take over as the primary attraction.

• Sparks Street [70] is a pleasant pedestrian street one block off Parliament Hill and a common tourist throughfare for seeing the sights. Along this street you'll find the majority of the tourist shops selling postcards, magnets, and maple syrup. The Astrolabe Gallery, located on this street, is a treasure trove of antique maps as well as vintage posters. There are several outdoor cafes and restaurants to choose from also.

• Westboro Village [71]
• In recent years a stretch along Richmond Road in the "near west" of Ottawa from Golden east to Tweedsmuir has become a popular tourism and shopping zone, and includes several outdoor stores (clothing and equipment), restaurants and coffee shops. Notable shops include the Mountain Equipment Coop [72], Ten Thousand Villages, Starbucks, Bridgehead (fair trade coffee), Kitchenalia, a chocolatier and several others. (Richmond Road becomes the western part of Wellington St. from Island Park Drive and a second strip of shops and restaurants runs along Wellington from Island Park Drive to Holland.)

• Bank Street Promenade, [73]. Great mix of stores ranging from chain restaurants to specialty shops. District extends from Wellington St to Gladstone Ave.  edit

Larger shopping malls include the Rideau Centre [74] (downtown), St. Laurent Shopping Centre [75] (East Central), Place D'Orleans [76] (East End), the Bayshore Shopping Centre [77] and Carlingwood Mall [78] (West End).
The last Saturday in May, Ottawa's Glebe neighbourhood hosts the annual Great Glebe Garage Sale. Hundreds of residents set-up tables in their garages or on their lawns and sell used goods ranging from household knick-knacks to electronics to clothing. Businesses in the area also hold sidewalk sales, and vendors sell artwork, baking, and refreshments. Driving and parking during the sale itself is unnecessary and nearly impossible. Arrive on foot or park and walk into the neighbourhood. For parking, and for the best deals (especially on larger items like furniture), arrive early. The event is bustling by 8 AM but continues well into the afternoon. Vendors are encouraged to donate a portion of their proceeds to the Ottawa Food Bank.

[edit][add listing] Eat

Ethnic foods from around the world are available at a wide variety of restaurants and street vendors throughout the city. The ByWard Market area has a wide selection of different cuisines; the Chinatown area is along Somerset Ave. between Bronson Ave. and Preston St; Little Italy runs along the length of Preston Street, from Carling Avenue to Albert Street.

Ottawa's claim to culinary fame: a classic beavertail with sugar and cinnamon

Also try the tasty BeaverTail [79], a doughy, deep-fried pastry associated with Ottawa, although a number of places claim to have created it. It's available in sweet and savory versions, topped with cinnamon, sugar, icing sugar, etc. In the winter, many places will offer it on the canal. During the summer, the only place downtown to offer it is in the Byward Market on George St. There are a variety of toppings and the taste of the beaver tail arguably stands out more with the classic sugar & cinnamon. However, the locals' favourite is the Killaloe Sunrise, a topping of cinnamon sugar and lemon juice.
Coffee Shops are found throughout the city, and include dozens of two specialty chains Second Cup and Starbucks, in addition to the mainstream Tim Horton's (seemingly planted at every intersection). Bridgehead [80], is a fair trade coffee house and can be found at a half dozen or so locations. Try their small double shot lattes, which are significantly better than their competitors'. There are several coffee houses in Little Italy, on Preston Street. One of the most popular, Pasticceria Gelateria Italiana (200 Preston Street, 613-594-5303), also houses an award-winning pastry shop [81].

[edit] Budget

Ottawa probably has more schwarma (kebab and fixings in pita bread) restaurants than any other place on Earth and most of them will serve up a great shawarma for around $5. Their busy times are typically weekdays at lunch-hour, and on weekends after the bars close. The Market and Elgin St. both have several restaurants to choose from - the best in Ottawa being Maroush Lebanese food - known locally as "the Shawarma nazi", which has a place on Elgin street and one on Rideau street just outside the ByWard market. The usual range of diners, bagel shops and fast food restaurants can be found in shopping areas throughout the city.
You will also find "chip wagons" or "chip trucks" parked in various locations around the city at lunch time. They serve hamburgers, hot dogs, sausages, pogos (deep fried, breaded hot dogs on a stick), chips (french fries) and poutine (french fries covered with cheddar cheese curd and gravy - very popular in Quebec and eastern Ontario).

• La Bottega Nicastro, Byward Market. A fantastic little Italian specialty market, La Bottega also features the best $5 sandwiches the city knows, featuring amazing bread (esp. the focaccia) usually baked on the premises. The sit-down lunch kitchen is also well worth a visit.

• Budapest Delicatessen, Byward Market. An institution in Ottawa for as long as most people can remember, Budapest Deli is in the mold of the classic pan-European grocery: white tile walls, 15 kinds of mustard, homemade pickles and sausages in abundance, friendly Polish lady behind the counter. It is most famous for the great sandwich counter, which features classic European cold meat sandwiches (salami, pastrami, smoked turkey, cooked ham) on a fresh roll or kaiser bun, with all the fixings you expect: saurkraut, hot and regular mustad, onion, olive and hot peppers. All sandwiches come in a very generous standard size for 2.99-3.99or if you're feeling up to it, you can pay an extra dollar or so and get yours "mega" sized. This option will often result in not eating for the rest of the day. Hungarians are more than welcome! :)

• DiRienzo's Deli, Beech Street (just west of Preston Street). This little deli tucked away in Little Italy, a secret known to many locals, is famous for the best and freshest deli sandwiches in the city for $5 (taxes included). During the week the lineup can stretch outside the packed little store, but they are arguably the fastest sandwich makers anywhere so don't worry about a long wait. There is also another newer location run by the family at Meadowlands Drive and Fisher Avenue.

• Elgin Street Diner (374 Elgin Street, downtown) is a popular 24-hour diner. One of its specialties is the ESD (Elgin Street Diner) Poutine (though true Quebecers should probably abstain). Generally, poutine is French fries, served with cheese curds and gravy on top; they have several versions including the addition of caramelized onions and bacon, Montreal smoked meat, Philly steak, a four cheese blend or Chili. The substitution of mashed potatoes fried with onions and seasoning (called their home fries), or onion rings instead of regular French fries is also an option. Expect the adventure to set you back $6-8 depending on toppings. The diner's hamburgers/cheeseburgers are significantly better than typical fast food fare, and breakfast is served 24/7 365 days a year with no exception.

• For the best non-Canadian eats, head down Somerset street (West) near Bronson to the heart of Chinatown. Here you have a choice of places for Vietnamese, Thai, Cantonese, etc. Vietamese soup-houses, Pho Bo Ga and Pho Bo Ga La, are well-rated. The Yangtze Restaurant and Chu Shing Restaurant (across the street from it) are large box Chinese restaurants popular with Ottawa's Chinese clientele. The Jadeland Restaurant is a small popular Chinese restaurant set in a converted house and has been well reviewed for its tasty dishes and low prices. Another good source for ethnic foods is the stretch on Rideau between King Edward and the bridge to Vanier. You can find Middle Eastern, African and Asian food here.

• For a great Thai fusion, check out Hot Peppers on Somerset (just off Kent). Be sure to try the coconut rice.

• For Indian, there is Rose's Cafe (in the Market and one on Gladstone), but also try Curries (Gloucester and O'Connor, between Bank and Elgin near the business district). Or Moni Mahal on Laurier Street (business district, near Parliament Hill) for a large buffet with tons of vegetarian and vegan options (well labeled). For a somewhat higher-end buffet experience, try the East India Company (Somerset, between Metcalfe and Elgin).

• The best milk-shakes are found at Zak's,[82] a 24-hour diner in the ByWard Market. They're really good, made with ice-cream, and for the $5.50 they cost you get a large glass full plus the shaker with what didn't fit in the glass. Other dishes are quite good, with a "more calories for your money" attitude (as illustrated by the massive amount of milkshake served), which is nicely honest about fast food; however it may seem a bit expensive as some of the burgers are in excess of $12. Late on week-end nights (2 - 3AM) it's packed as people go for their after-bar poutine.

[edit] Mid-range

Major restaurant areas can be found on Elgin Street, on Bank Street in Centretown, on Bank Street in the Glebe, in Westboro and in the Byward Market, with entrees ranging from $12-$25. Similar restaurants can be found in major suburban shopping areas too.

• The Empire Grill, Clarence St, [83]. Has a great patio in the summer and delicious food year-round. Expect to pay about $25+ for an entree.
• Johnny Farina's, Elgin St, [84].
• Vineyards, in the ByWard Market, [85]. An excellent restaurant with the widest selection of world beers and wines in Ottawa.
• Pub Italia, 434 1/2 Preston Street (near Dow's Lake and the Experimental Farm), [86]. An Irish/Italian pub with hundreds of bottled beers listed in its "Beer Bible". Noted for its intimate faux Medieval/Gothic décor.
• The Highlander Pub, The Highlander Pub in the Byward Market is a solid restaurant with good pub fare, and traditional Scottish food, such as haggis. It is a good place also after a long day of sightseeing and you need a drink, with any spirit, wine or beer you can think of. It has a warm, friendly environment, with plenty of patio room. An average tab for a full meal for 2 should be about $40 CND.
• Santé Restaurant, 45 Rideau St, [87]. Santé at the corner of Rideau and Sussex, across from the Rideau Centre, is a cosmopolitan yet casual. It’s a delicate line to walk, but Santé Restaurant does it with panache - offering exotic Asian Fusion and Thai cuisine in a comfortably elegant setting.
• The Works 362 Richmond Road in Westboro, 580 Bank Street in the Glebe, 363 St. Laurent Boulevard in Manor Park, and various suburban locations, [88]. Hard to argue that these are not the best burgers around. The selection is top notch and toppings are bountiful. Also served are delicious onion rings, milk shakes and cold beer, all in a funky industrial decor. Expect to pay $12 for a burger with sides, and not to regret it.
• da Sergio 338 Preston Street, is an owner operated authentic Italian Bistro with attention to detail in its appetizers, pasta, sauces and secondi. Calamari are fresh and melt-in-your-mouth, and the Carpaccio served simply with capers, olive oil and parmesan curls. They have a large patio with shade making it a good spot for a sunny summer afternoon or evening.

[edit] Splurge

Ottawa has excellent options for fine dining if you feel like spending a bit extra. Budget C$150 for a three course dinner for two, including wine and gratuity.

• Domus [89], in the ByWard Market at 85 Murray St., is an outstanding restaurant with an award winning chef serving regional Canadian cuisine. Reservations at 613-241-6007.
• Signatures [90], at Le Cordon Bleu Culinary Institute (453 Laurier Ave. East), 613-236-2499, Tues-Sat: 5:30 p.m.–10, is a French restaurant with a five-diamond rating from CAA/AAA that is considered among the very best in the city.
• E18hteen [91], located in the Byward Market at 18 York St., is an upscale, modern restaurant and bar located in a renovated 19th century heritage building. It is THE place to see and be seen.
• Merlot [92], at the Marriott Hotel (100 Kent St.), has received glowing reviews for its cuisine and is Ottawa's only revolving restaurant.
• Beckta [93], located downtown (226 Nepean St.), is an excellent modern restaurant with a variety of tastes centred around locally available foods. Also features an extensive wine list.
• Perspectives Restaurant [94], at the Brookstreet Hotel (525 Legget Drive), offers fine dining featuring a fusion of Oriental flavours with top-quality regional ingredients.
• Issac's 64 Hundred [95], in West End (6400 Hazeldean Road), is a fine dining restaurant with a mediterranean flair.

[edit] Vegetarian and Vegan

• CafeMyHouse[96] at 1729 Bank St. offers vegan friendly cuisine and is located within 10 minutes of both the airport and the train station. The restaurant specializes in brunch and lunch options, and average around $15 a meal.

• The Green Door at 198 Main St offers a vegetarian and vegan buffet and is the oldest vegetarian restaurant in Ottawa. It offers private and communal tables. Meals are priced by weight, and average around $12 for a full plate.

• The Table, 1230 Wellington St in the Westboro neighbourhood, also offers a vegetarian buffet with many vegan options. Meals are priced by weight.

• ZenKitchen[97], 634 Somerset St. W, is opened in mid-June 2009. Named Ottawa's Best New Restaurant in 2009, it is completely vegan, with full table service, a wine program and summer patio. They also offer vegetarian cooking lessons and special events like wine tastings. Reservations can be made online at www.zenkitchen.ca.

• Govinda's Restaurant on Somerset East (just off the University of Ottawa) offers a simple vegan buffet for $5-$7. The best cheap eats in town. Operated by ISCKON (Hare Krishna movement). Only open weekdays from 17:00 to 20:00

• So Good Restaurant on Somerset (1.5 blocks West of Bronson) has a separate vegetarian menu (dishes are also vegan unless stated) and there are many choices . Try anything "Wu Se" (peanut sauce). Dinners are about $10 (entree and rice).

• Perfection-Satisfaction-Promise, 167 Laurier Ave E. (Near University of Ottawa, Sandy Hill), ☎ 613-234-7299, [98]. M-Tu 8AM-8PM, W 8AM-5PM, Th-F 8AM-8PM, Sa 4PM-9PM. Fully vegetarian with a great vegan selection. "Unquestionably some of the best vegetarian food in the city" - Ottawa Xpress, 2007. 6.50 - 12.00.  edit

[edit][add listing] Drink

The most popular bar areas are in the ByWard Market, along Wellington Avenue in Westboro and along both Elgin Street and Bank Street between Somerset and Gladstone in the Centretown area. There are pubs and bars scattered throughout the city as well.
You can also take a small trip over the Ottawa river to Gatineau. Bars on Ottawa side close at 2:00 AM while bars close at 3:00 AM on the Gatineau side.
Note that smoking is not permitted in Ontario or Quebec restaurants and bars.

[edit] Bars and nightclubs

• The Standard, 360 Elgin St. A restaurant during the day, pumping club/lounge at night. The Standard is popular Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights with a different style of music each night. Friday is excellent old-school and modern hip-hop/R&B while Saturday is a little of everything. Excellent beer tap selection and daily drink specials.
• Club 292, 292 Elgin St.
• E18hteen, 18 York St.
• Barrymore's, Bank St. An old converted movie theatre, their 80's night is the place to be in Ottawa on Sundays. They also have a 90's night on Thursdays and live concerts on most other nights.
• The Dominion Tavern, York St. Simple beers and some pool: picture your friend's basement apartment, even serving 40's of beer.
• Zaphod's Beeblebrox, York St (next to Dominion). Alternative rock/new age punk, hip-hop nights on Thursday. Recently short-listed in CBC Radio 3's "Searchlight: The Best Live Venue in Canada" competition. And yes, they do offer a drink they call a "Pan-Galactic Gargle Blaster"!
• Foundation York St. in the alley behind E18hteen. Restaurant during the week that is open for lunch and dinner. Excellent food and one of the only restaurants in Ottawa to serve fondue. On Friday and Saturday nights it transforms into an upperclass nightclub. Dress to impress, no logos or running shoes, and be prepared to spend a few bucks on drinks.
• Options Bar located off the main lobby of the Brookstreet Hotel, 525 Legget Drive. A relaxing and sophisticated lounge, sometimes good for celebrity sightings.
• Mercury Lounge, an awesome bar that changes its themes nightly ranging from African beats to hip-hop to house (depending on the night). Spread out over 3 (relatively small) floors, this bar offers different DJs and atmospheres throughout. Hump Night is one of the best gay nights in the city and occurs on Wednesday (4$ cover).
• Edge, A popular gay bar, especially with younger people, is located at Sparks St and Bank St. Best on Saturday nights. Through the summer months the Edge has a rooftop patio that is chic, but be prepared to climb up 7 stories!
• The Flamingo, located at 380 Elgin St, it is Ottawa's newest gay bar. Cover can be quite expensive depending on the night, but they often have special DJ's. This is generally a mid-twenties and older crowd.
• The Lookout, is located in the Byward Market at 41 York St. They have a very popular "bois night" on Thursday that attracts lots of people. Friday and Saturday are mostly lesbian nights.

[edit] Pubs

Since the mid-1990's there has been an explosion in Irish-/British-style pubs across the city. In the core you will find:

• Patty Boland's, Clarence St. Feels like an old tavern, but big. Friday and Saturday nights Patty's has live music so expect to pay cover, and mandatory coat check in the winter. During the musician breaks there is a dance floor with Top 40 music.
• Black Thorn, Clarence St. Upscale, great food, huge patio with good views.
• Irish Village, Clarence St. Ottawa's largest pub complex, including the eponymous Irish Village (loud, lots of live music) and The Heart and Crown.
• Lieutenant's Pump, Elgin St. British style pub with a good variety of food selections and inexpensive draught.
• The Manx, Elgin St. Great microbrews, wide scotch selection, bohemian/hipster feel.
• Pub Italia, Preston St. A large selection of beers from the world, especially Belgian. Excellent pizza and pastas. Interior design is a bit strange but the patio is very nice.
• D'arcy McGee's Sparks Street & Elgin St. Beautiful architecture with impressive food selection
• Clocktower, Clarence St. A microbrewery with 4 locations throughout downtown. Excellent beer at a good price with a very tasty and well priced menu. Also a location on Bank St. and Pretoria.
• Minglewoods, (The corner of Waller St and Rideau St). A great place to drink for cheap! Pitchers of domestic and premium beers are priced under $11 so if you're on a budget this is the place to go. It is close to the University of Ottawa so many students frequent Minglewoods between or after class. There is a good selection of pub fare, also for reasonable prices. On the weekend there is a packed dance floor on the second level.  edit
• Centretown pub (CPs) A gay pub located near the corner of Bank and Somerset.
• Chez Lucien, 137 Murray St. (corner Dalhousie): one of the few pleasant, non-faux-Irish pubs downtown (a favourite along with the Manx). Serves good pub fare (including excellent fries), can get busy especially after work. A good selection of microbrew beers.
• Quinn's, 1070 Bank St., is a small but cozy sports bar and pub located next to the Mayfair theatre. Expect good pub fare, a nice ambiance and good selection of beers.

[edit][add listing] Sleep

[edit] Budget

• Ottawa Jail Hostel, 75 Nicholas Street (across the street from the Rideau Centre), ☎ 613-235-2595 (toll free: 1-866-299-1478, fax: 613-235-9202), [99]. A member of Hostelling International, this hostel is in the old Ottawa Jail; the bedrooms are actually old jail cells. It's close to the Byward Market and downtown. Tours available. $24.15/dorm for HI members, $28.35 for non.  edit

• Ottawa Backpackers Inn, 203 York Street, ☎ 613-241-3402 (toll free: 1-888-394-0334, info@ottawahostel.com), [100]. Part of Backpackers Hostels Canada, includes kitchen, free wireless internet and free coffee/tea. In a converted house into hostel, in the market block. The staff and the atmosphere are very friendly. Allergy warning: they have a cat $25/night for regular dorm beds, more for semi-private and private rooms.  edit

• Barefoot Hostel, 455 Cumberland St, 613-237-0335, [101]. A clean, modern hostel located downtown. Included for use is a mini-kitchen, back patio with lounge chairs, common room with a huge HDTV, computer (with internet), free WiFi, plush bed linens, lockers and three shared bathrooms. Rates start at $29/night/per person and you can book online. Make sure to check their website or Twitter page for current promotions.

[edit] Mid-range

• Albert at Bay Suite Hotel [102], 435 Albert Street (corner of Bay St.). The building is nicely located downtown within easy walking distance of the main attractions, shops and restaurants. The hotel itself is a converted apartment building where you'll find large one and two bedrooms suites. Rates range from $119/night to $229/night for the one and two bedroom suites respectively.

• Albert House Inn, 478 Albert Street, [103]. The house is old but kept well, the people are very nice and the breakfast is generous. The bedrooms are clean and cosy and you can borrow books and newspapers.

• Auberge King Edward Bed and Breakfast, 525 King Edward Avenue (downtown beside the University of Ottawa and a 5 minute walk from the Rideau Canal), [104]. Well-preserved Victorian architecture packed with character. Free parking and WIFI. $90-120 (plus taxes).  edit

• Avalon Bed and Breakfast, 539 Besserer St (Near Rideau and Charlotte), ☎ +1 613 241-6403, [105]. checkin: 1PM; checkout: 11AM. A well reviewed downtown Ottawa Bed and Breakfast. Turn of the century home with modern decor. A 15 minute walk to the BiWard Market. Free parking and WIFI. $75-$125.  edit

• Best Western Victoria Park Suites, 377 O'Connor St. (near Elgin St.). The hotel is downtown near the Museum of Nature. $100 (and up).

• The Bostonian - Executive Suites [106], 341 Maclaren St. Centrally located contemporary boutique hotel offering apartment style suites and terrific service. Rates start at $104.

• ByWard Blue Inn, 157 Clarence Street, [107]. Welcome to Ottawa’s only B & B hotel in the picturesque ByWard Market. This charming inn offers people traveling for business or pleasure fantastic room rates in a great location. $79-149

• Cartier Place Suite Hotel, 180 Cooper Street, [108]. Features unique pet friendly downtown suite lodging accommodations minutes from Parliament Hill. Discover unique studios, one or two bedrooms, and VIP suites with Jacuzzis, close to tourist attractions.

• Comfort Inn Ottawa West (Kanata), 222 Hearst Way (This convenient Ottawa West location is only 5 min from Scotiabank Place and offers guests excellent value including free breakfast, free parking, and free internet. 20 min from Downtown, Highway #417, Exit 138 Eagleson Road), ☎ 613-592-2200 (cn270@whg.com, fax: 613-591-9600), [109]. checkin: 11:00; checkout: 15:00.  edit

• Novotel Hotel located across the street from the east side of the Rideau Centre on Nicholas Street. Modern hotel with an emphasis on energy conservation. Modern restaurant and banquet facilities. This location has free internet kiosks in the main lobby open to the public.

• Sheraton Ottawa Hotel, 150 Albert St, ☎ +1 866 716-8101, [110]. checkin: 3PM; checkout: 12PM. Sheraton Ottawa Hotel is located in the heart of downtown - steps from Parliament Hill, the National Gallery, and other major attractions. Each room features the signature Sheraton Sweet Sleeper bed, and the Link@Sheraton lobby connectivity hub offers complimentary internet and PC workstation use. $109 and up.  edit

• Shirley Samantha's Bed & Breakfast, 28 Carlotta Avenue (From Hwy. 417 take Exit 117 Vanier Parkway; north on Vanier Parkway to McArthur Avenue, left on McArthur to Marguerite Avenue, left on Marguerite. Then right on Carlotta Avenue.), ☎ 613-745-2105, [111]. checkin: as arranged; checkout: 11 a.m.. On a quiet residential street, within walking distance from downtown and half a block from the Rideau River cycling/walking path. Two queen-bedded rooms, one with ensuite, the other with private bath. Centrally air conditioned, complimentary parking, snacks and WiFi. Delicious breakfasts featuring home baking. $70-$120 per night.  edit

• University of Ottawa located within a quick walk to Rideau Centre and downtown, the university runs a guest house with private rooms in one of its newer housing complexes. As of May 2005, the rate for a single was $90 with a discount for University of Ottawa students.

• The Black Lab Inn [112] Welcome to Ottawa's only truly dog friendly bed & breakfast. Located in the south end of Ottawa with plenty of places to take your dog to play and walk with the Rideau River just down the street. Delicious full breakfasts with all the amenities to cater to guests and their dogs.

• Gasthaus Switzerland Inn, 89 Daly Ave, (Beautiful Historic 1872 Small Hotel Right Downtown), 613-237-0335, [113]. A charming, cosy small hotel located in the heart of Ottawa, features 22 rooms including 2 honeymoon suites. The Inn was built in 1872 from limestone in a 19th Century Vernacular Classical Revival. Gasthaus offers traditional Swiss hospitality, with modern comfort. Free Wi-Fi and free internet computer desk in the common area for guests. Delicious buffet breakfast is included with Bircher-Muesli and fresh ground Swiss espresso. Discount available for government employees & university professors.

[edit] Splurge

Chateau Laurier (left) and Parliament Hill overlooking the Ottawa River

• The Ottawa Marriott Hotel, 100 Kent St (near Parliament Hill), ☎ +1 613 238-1122 (toll free: +1 800 853-8463), [114]. The Ottawa Marriott Hotel is in downtown Ottawa one block from the Parliament Buildings and steps away from museums and shopping. This Ottawa hotel includes a revolving restaurant, Kids’ Zone as well as an indoor pool, sauna and fitness centre. $154+.  edit
• Arc, Slater Street (near Parliament Hill), [115]. A trendy boutique hotel with prices to match its style.
• Chateau Laurier, (near Parliament Hill), [116]. The city's grand old hotel: its oldest and most famous luxury hotel as well as one of its landmarks. Rooms facing west overlook the Rideau Canal locks and have stellar views of the Parliament buildings.
• The Westin Ottawa, 11 Colonel By Dr (near Parliament Hill), ☎ +1-866-716-8101 (ottawa@westin.com), [117]. checkin: 3pm; checkout: 12pm. This newly renovated hotel is also connected to the Rideau Centre and the soon to open Ottawa Convention Centre by a walkway. It is steps from Parliament Hill and the Byward market and each of the 496 rooms features the ten-layer Heavenly Bed. Rates start at $159 / night.  edit
• The Delta Ottawa Hotel [118]. 361 Queen Street. Located downtown, a few blocks west of Parliament Hill, near the Supreme Court of Canada. The outside decor is not much to look at but the one and two bedroom rooms are spacious and have kitchenettes, comfortable for a longer stay. Rates for standard hotel rooms start at $159 / night.
• Lord Elgin [119] is centrally located on Elgin Street across from the National Arts Centre, a stone's throw from Parliament Hill, and is one of Ottawa's two classic hotels (the other being the Chateau Laurier). It has recently been upgraded. While it has "splurge" rates, most rooms are reasonably priced. Good value, and a Starbucks off the lobby.
• The Brookstreet [120] in Kanata is a newer luxury hotel and resort popular with technology companies and visiting sports teams. Facilities include a full-service spa with 11 treatment rooms, a championship golf course (The Marshes), a European PGA-approved short course (Marchwood), a four-diamond restaurant (Perspectives) and a fitness studio with whirlpools, steam rooms and indoor and outdoor pools.

[edit] Contact

The area codes for Ottawa are 613 and the overlay code 343. Ten-digit dialing (area code+local number) is required for all local calls.

[edit] Stay safe

Ottawa is a very safe place to live and visit, so if you use common sense it is at least as safe as any other city. There are many tourists in the city, especially in summer months, and there are very few incidents of robbery or assault.
That said, buses and transit stations have had issues in recent years with violence and swarmings/robberies, even during daytime hours. OC Transpo has hired new constables and placed plainclothes security as well as cameras on select buses and trains to counter the problem. Use common sense, especially when riding at night, every transit station has multiple emergency call boxes. After dark, take extra care in areas near downtown such as Lowertown, and also Hintonburg, Vanier, Bayshore, Ledbury, Heatherington, Caldwell and South Keys. These neighbourhoods are known to have gang presence, and drug problems. Ottawa is generally very safe, but like any other city it has bad apples.
Ottawa is the fourth coldest capital city by annual average temperature, but it has the second coldest January, only topped by Ulan Bator, Mongolia. Add to that nearly 3m (10') of snow per average winter and throw in an ice storm from time to time, winter can be a challenge but locals do a great job of handling it particularly with recreation. Summers are (normally) short, hot and humid. Dress for the weather!

[edit] Cope

[edit] Embassies

• Albania, 130 Albert St, Ste 302, ☎ +1 613 236-3053 (fax: +1 613 236-0804).  edit
• Armenia, 7 Delaware Ave, ☎ +1 613 234-3710 (fax: +1 613 234-3444), [121].  edit
• Australia, 50 O'Connor St, Ste 710, ☎ +1 613 236-0841 (fax: +1 613 236-4376), [122].  edit
• Austria, 445 Wilbrod St, ☎ +1 613 789-1444 (fax: +1 613 789-3431), [123].  edit
• Azerbaijan, 275 Slater St, Ste 904, ☎ +1 613 288-0497 (fax: +1 613 230-8089), [124].  edit
• Belarus, 130 Albert St, Ste 600, ☎ +1 613 233-9994 (fax: +1 613 233-8500), [125].  edit
• Belgium, 360 Albert St, Ste 820, ☎ +1 613 236-7267 (fax: +1 613 236-7882), [126].  edit
• Bosnia & Herzegovina, 130 Albert St, Ste 805, ☎ +1 613 236-0028 (fax: +1 613 236-1139), [127].  edit
• Bulgaria, 325 Stewart St, ☎ +1 613 789-3215 (fax: +1 613 789-3524).  edit
• China, 515 St. Patrick St, ☎ +1 613 789-3434/791-0511 (chinaemb_ca@mfa.gov.cn, fax: +1 613 789-1911), [128].  edit
• Croatia, 229 Chapel St, ☎ +1 613 562-7820 (fax: +1 613 562-7821), [129].  edit
• Czech Republic, 251 Cooper St, ☎ +1 613 562-3875 (fax: +1 613 562-3878), [130].  edit
• Denmark, 47 Clarence St, ☎ +1 613 562-1811 (fax: +1 613 562-1812), [131].  edit
• Estonia, 260 Dalhousie St, Ste 210, ☎ +1 613 789-4222 (fax: +1 613 789-9555), [132].  edit
• Finland, 55 Metcalfe St, Ste 850, ☎ +1 613 288-2233 (fax: +1 613 288-2244), [133].  edit
• France, 42 Sussex Dr, ☎ +1 613 789-1795 (fax: +1 613 562-3735), [134].  edit
• Germany, 1 Waverley St, ☎ +1 613 232-1101 (fax: +1 613 594-9330), [135].  edit
• Greece, 80 MacLaren St, ☎ +1 613 238-6271 (+1 613 238-6273, fax: +1 613 238-5676), [136].  edit
• Guyana, 151 Slater St, Ste 309, ☎ +1 613 235-7240 (+1 613 235-7249, fax: +1 613 235-1447), [137].  edit
• Hungary, 299 Waverley St, ☎ +1 613 230-2717 (fax: +1 613 230-7560), [138].  edit
• Iceland, 360 Albert St, Ste 710, ☎ +1 613 482-1944 (fax: +1 613 482-1945), [139].  edit
• Ireland, 130 Albert St, Ste 1105, ☎ +1 613 233-6281 (fax: +1 613 233-5835), [140].  edit
• Italy, 275 Slater St, 21F, ☎ +1 613 232-2401 (fax: +1 613 233-1484), [141].  edit
• Jamaica, 151 Slater St, Ste 1000, ☎ +1 613 233-9311 (fax: +1 613 233-0611), [142].  edit
• Japan, 255 Sussex Dr, ☎ +1 613 241-8541, [143].  edit
• Latvia, 350 Sparks St, Ste 1200, ☎ +1 613 238-6014 (fax: +1 613 238-7044), [144].  edit
• Lithuania, 150 Metcalfe St, Ste 1600, ☎ +1 613 567-5458 (fax: +1 613 567-5315), [145].  edit
• Macedonia, 130 Albert St, Ste 1006, ☎ +1 613 234 3882 (ottawa@mfa.gov.mk, fax: +1 613 233 1852), [146].  edit
• Mauritius, 2918 Southmore Dr E, ☎ +1 613 737-7322 (fax: +1 613 737-0690).  edit
• Netherlands, 350 Albert St, Ste 2020, ☎ +1 613 237-5030 (fax: +1 613 237-6471), [147].  edit
• New Zealand, 99 Bank St, Ste 727, ☎ +1 613 238-5991 (fax: +1 613 238-5707), [148].  edit
• Nigeria, 295 Metcalfe St, ☎ +1 613 236-0521 (+1 613 236-0523, fax: +1 613 236-0529), [149].  edit
• Portugal, 645 Island Park Dr, ☎ +1 613 729-0883 (fax: +1 613 729-4236).  edit
• Romania, 655 Rideau St, ☎ +1 613 789-3709 (+1 613 789-5345, fax: +1 613 789-4365), [150].  edit
• Russia, 285 Charlotte St, ☎ +1 613 235-4341 (+1 613 236-1413, fax: +1 613 236-6342), [151].  edit
• Saint Lucia, 130 Albert St, Ste 700, ☎ +1 613 236-8952 (fax: +1 613 236-3042).  edit
• South Africa, 15 Sussex Dr, ☎ +1 613 744-0330 (fax: +1 613 741-1639), [152].  edit
• Spain, 74 Stanley Ave, ☎ +1 613 747-2252 (fax: +1 613 744-1224), [153].  edit
• Switzerland, 5 Marlborough Ave, ☎ +1 613 235-1837 (fax: +1 613 563-1394), [154].  edit
• Syria, 46 Cartier St, ☎ +1 613 569-5556, [155].  edit
• Trinidad and Tobago, 200 First Ave, ☎ +1 613 232-2418 (fax: +1 613 232-4349), [156].  edit
• Turkey, 197 Wurtemburg St, ☎ +1 613 789-4044 (+1 613 789-3440, fax: +1 613 789-3442), [157].  edit
• Ukraine, 310 Somerset St W, ☎ +1 613 230-2961 (fax: +1 613 230-2400), [158].  edit
• United Kingdom, 80 Elgin St, ☎ +1 613 237-1530 (fax: +1 613 237-7980), [159].  edit
• United States, 490 Sussex Dr, ☎ +1 613 238-5335 (fax: +1 613 688-3082), [160].  edit

[edit] Get out

Just across the river from Ottawa is Gatineau, which has the stunning Canadian Museum of Civilization and some mighty good restaurants too. There is a scenic national park of the same name just to the north-west, with high cliffs and deep, clear lakes.
To the south-east of Ottawa is a large flat rural area consisting mostly of small commuter towns, agricultural villages, and the occasional woodland. This lowland is sprawled over eight counties and stretches all the way to Montreal and the United States border, hundreds of kilometres away. In this agricultural hinterland lies:

• Merrickville, 45 min by car south of Ottawa, claims to be Canada's prettiest village.
• Perth, 1 hour south, a very scenic town with mills, and heritage buildings.
• Carp, a tiny village 10 km north of Ottawa, houses the surreal Cold War "Central Emergency Government Headquarters" (Diefenbunker), now a museum.

To the west of Ottawa lies more rugged terrain. The Madawaska Highlands, which start about 90km to the northwest, is a sparsely inhabited wilderness area composed of miles upon miles of lakes and forests. In this area lies:

• Greater Madawaska, the Calabogie Ski resort about 1 1/2 hour west of Ottawa.

To the north of Ottawa lies Renfrew County, the heart of what is know colloquially as the Ottawa Valley. Though Ottawa lies geologically in the Ottawa Valley, as a colloquial term it is used to refer to the cultural region to the north of Ottawa.
Beyond the Ottawa region lie other Canadian cities, such as:

• Montreal, the largest city in Quebec, is 200km east. The largest French-speaking city outside of Europe.
• Toronto, Canada's largest city, is about 500km to the southwest.
• Kingston, about 200km to the southwest, on the way to Toronto. An old city composed of limestone buildings and home to Queen's University, one of Canada's most prestigious universities.

Routes through Ottawa