Whether you're planning to visit Canada for the first time or you're a Canadian living in the United States, there are a number of reasons to spend a day in Ottawa. From the National Gallery of Canada to the Rideau Canal, there are plenty of places to visit and activities to do.

Rideau Canal

Whether you're planning a day trip or a weekend getaway, one of the best ways to spend a day in Ottawa is to explore the Rideau Canal. This 202-kilometre-long waterway cuts through the capital city and is linked to Lake Ontario.

The Rideau Canal is a popular destination for travellers during the summer, but it also provides a spectacular view during the winter months. The ice freezes over and the canal becomes a skating rink.

There are several ways to explore the Rideau Canal, including guided tours, self-guided excursions and renting a boathouse. Depending on your preferences, you can spend a day, a week or even a month enjoying the many activities and attractions in the area.

The Rideau Canal is one of the most important man-made wonders of Canada. Built between 1826 and 1832, it's a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is considered Ontario's first.

National Gallery of Canada

Whether you are staying in Ottawa for the day, or you are looking for a weekend getaway, one of the best things to do in the capital of Canada is to spend a day at the National Gallery of Canada. This museum has one of the largest collections of Canadian art in the world. The collection consists of more than 40,000 works by 6,000 artists, including works by Picasso and Monet. The collection also includes ancient Indigenous artifacts, modern Inuit sculptures, and religious pieces from New France.

The National Gallery is located on a prominent rocky outcropping opposite the Canada's Parliament. The building was designed by architect Moshe Safdie. It is a large glass building with a contemporary interior design.

The main halls feature a sloped ramp that makes it easy to navigate for visitors of all ages. This is especially convenient for children.

ByWard Market

Located in downtown Ottawa, ByWard Market is one of the largest public markets in Canada. Founded in 1826, ByWard Market is still home to hundreds of local businesses. There are a variety of stores, art galleries, and entertainment venues. This area also includes restaurants, bars, and stalls selling fresh produce and flowers.

During the summer months, ByWard Market is the location for a farmers' market. It is one of the oldest such markets in the country and it features locally grown produce and artisanal goods. There are also plenty of restaurants to try in the area, especially around ByWard Market Square.

The National Gallery of Canada is a must-see attraction for art lovers. The museum is home to over 75,000 works of art. The entrance features a sculpture of a spider.

Notre-Dame Cathedral

Visiting Ottawa's Notre-Dame Cathedral is one of the city's most popular tourist attractions. Located next to the National Gallery of Canada, the cathedral is Canada's oldest church and has a lot to offer visitors. Its interior is beautiful, and its stained glass windows are very impressive.

The cathedral is open daily and offers guided tours on weekends. The cathedral is a major religious site and has been a center of Catholic life in Ottawa since its inception in the early nineteenth century.

The cathedral features intricately carved sculptures and decorative adornments. The stained glass windows were completed in 1879. They feature geometric designs and biblical scenes. The church also has hundreds of religious statues.

The upper window openings are typical of neo-gothic architecture. The lower doorways are in the neo-classical style.

Parliament Hill

Visiting Parliament Hill, the Canadian Parliament and other sites in Ottawa can be a great way to spend a day. There are many free guided tours available to teach visitors about the political system of Canada. Some attractions are easily accessible by public transportation, while others require a short taxi ride.

The National Gallery of Canada is a must-see for art lovers. This renowned museum is housed in an attractive structure and boasts an impressive collection of Canadian art. Tickets are available online or in person.

The Centennial Flame is an impressive display at night. It is one of the tallest structures in the city and offers good views of Ottawa.

The Canadian Museum of Nature is another worthwhile stop. Its displays include an exhibit on the history of Canadian birds and other species.