Ottawa is Canada’s capital, which we also give a capital ‘O’ for Outstanding. This bustling city is full of hidden spaces, like bunkers and speakeasies! With enough culture to make you think you travelled the world, and enough shopping centers to make everyone believe you, Ottawa is definitely more than just the Canadian experience. But, if you’re looking for that certain Canadian experience, they have that too. A blend of history, a sprinkle of upcoming restaurants, and a dash of the weird, you’ll have plenty to explore whether you’re there for a few days or a lifetime.
Brampton, Canada
Fit for Queen (or King, or Prince, or Princess, or courtly jester) and open to public tours, Parliament Hill will be a royal experience. Originally built in the 18th century, this site served as a military base until Queen Victoria chose Ottawa as the capital of the Province of Canada in 1859. This Gothic Revival style architecture is definitely impressive, and massive. But with important government decisions to be made, Parliament Hill serves as an epic workplace for the Senate and House of Commons. Make the climb up the Peace Tower to take in breathtaking views of the city and the Ottawa River.
As Canada’s premier art gallery, the National Gallery of Canada will entice your inner art critic. Not only is this museum a work of art on the outside (it’s housed in glass and granite), but it holds some of Canada’s most precious pieces of art, along with artwork from American and European artists. You can find a large contemporary collection here, including some works from Andy Warhol. If old-school art is more your speed, check out their collections of Renaissance pieces, or works from other periods including the Baroque, Romanticism, and more. Don't plan to be in and out too quickly though, as this gallery also has a wine bar, Cafe 7, specializing in wine pairings with small plates.
Brampton, Canada
Ottawa is another (relatively) warm Canadian city that gets popular in the summer. The city holds a popular Tulip festival in the spring, which is probably when Ottawa is at its prettiest, although we can't discount the fall foliage, either. And if you want to take advantage of the once-in-a-lifetime chance to skate all up and down the frozen Rideau Canal, pack up your heavy coat and plan a visit for the mid- to late winter.
Banner Photo Credit: via Pixabay
