Arrive at the Ottawa Marriott and drop off bags if your room isn’t ready; standard check-in is 3:00PM but early luggage hold is usually free — convenient for a shoestring traveller.
Walk up to Parliament Hill to see the Centre Block exterior, Peace Tower, and visitor centre; guided tours are free when offered and the Visitor Centre is generally open ~9:30AM–4:30PM (check online for tour times and security closures).
Eat at one of the many inexpensive stalls in ByWard Market (shawarma, poutine, or a BeaverTails treat); most food vendors operate daily with varied hours — midday is busiest and best for variety.
Visit the National Gallery to see Canadian and international art; typical hours are 10:00AM–5:00PM (Thursdays sometimes extend to 8:00PM) — check the gallery’s website for exact Jan 2 hours and any free evening admission windows.
Budget-friendly classic diner on Elgin Street with large portions and reasonable prices; the diner is usually open late (many downtown diners are 24-hour or late-night, but confirm seasonal hours).
If the Rideau Canal Skateway is open (seasonal; typically maintained in winter when ice conditions allow), skate or walk along the canal for a quintessential Ottawa winter experience — check the official Rideau Canal Skateway status each morning; public access hours vary but maintained sections are often open into the evening.
Cross the pedestrian Alexandra Bridge for river views and short walk to the Canadian Museum of History; the museum typically opens around 9:00AM–9:30AM and closes ~5:00PM — it's a must-see for Canadian cultural and Indigenous exhibits (verify Jan 3 hours online).
Return to Ottawa (bus or walk) to visit the Canadian War Museum to explore Canada's military history and major exhibits; usual hours are around 9:30AM–5:00PM — check for seasonal hours and any special exhibits with separate fees.
Head to Lansdowne Park to browse markets or window-shop; the green space and retail area are free to explore and a good low-cost way to spend late afternoon.
Enjoy an early, inexpensive dinner — Kettleman's at Lansdowne offers filling sandwiches and is budget-friendly; many Lansdowne food outlets close by early evening, so plan accordingly.