Seven-Day Cultural Immersion Itinerary in Ontario, Canada

  • Day 1: National Gallery of Canada
    15 minutes (1.5 km) from The Westin Ottawa

    Visit one of the country's finest art museums, the National Gallery of Canada, to see a vast collection of Canadian and European art. Famous works include pieces by Tom Thomson and the Group of Seven, as well as European masters like Rembrandt and Van Gogh.

  • Day 2: Canadian Museum of History
    20 minutes (8.4 km) from The Westin Ottawa

    Discover the Canadian Museum of History, Canada's most-visited museum. Known for its excellent exhibits on the country's history, the building itself is a stunning architectural masterpiece. Don't miss the First Peoples Hall, showcasing Canada's Indigenous cultures.

  • Day 3: St. Lawrence Market
    15 minutes (6.0 km) from The Westin Harbour Castle

    Explore St. Lawrence Market, renowned for its fresh food offerings ranging from farm-fresh produce to artisanal cheeses. This public market has been around since 1803 and is an important aspect of Toronto's culture.

  • Day 4: Fort York National Historic Site
    20 minutes (5.6 km) from St. Lawrence Market

    Visit Fort York, a historic site that was central to the founding of Toronto. Explore the barracks and officers' quarters to learn about Canada's military history, then take a stroll around Garrison Common for a scenic walk.

  • Day 5: Royal Ontario Museum
    25 minutes (7.1 km) from Fort York National Historic Site

    See one of the country's largest and oldest museums, the Royal Ontario Museum. Covering world cultures and natural history, the museum houses six million objects, including dinosaur skeletons and Egyptian artifacts. The Michael Lee-Chin Crystal, its contemporary addition, shouldn't be missed.

  • Day 6: Distillery District
    20 minutes (3.6 km) from Royal Ontario Museum

    Experience Toronto's favorite cultural hub, the Distillery District, where Victorian-era brick buildings have been transformed into galleries, restaurants, and shops. This residential and commercial district has something for everyone, and offers a chance to wander and appreciate the city's history.

  • Day 7: The Hockey Hall of Fame
    10 minutes (3.3 km) from the Distillery District

    Complete your cultural immersion itinerary in Ontario with a visit to the Hockey Hall of Fame. Learn about the history of this beloved sport, of which Canada is a founding member. Interactive exhibits and memorabilia will appeal as much to the seasoned fan as to those discovering the sport for the first time.

Time and Costs Estimates

  • National Gallery of Canada (2 hours, $16)
  • Canadian Museum of History (4 hours, $20)
  • St. Lawrence Market (2 hours, $20)
  • Fort York National Historic Site (2 hours, $12)
  • Royal Ontario Museum (3 hours, $22)
  • Distillery District (3 hours, $30)
  • The Hockey Hall of Fame (2 hours, $18)
  • Total Estimated Costs: $178

Transportation

To get around Ontario, transportation can vary. Utilize Ottawa's bus lines or ride-sharing services for easy travel. For longer distances like Toronto, take advantage of the GO Train Service that operates in the Greater Toronto and Hamilton Area. Costs will depend upon the method of transportation.

Useful Tips

If you have an extra day, try visiting Niagara Falls and witness this breathtaking natural wonder. Or if you're interested, spend a day exploring Indigenous cultures at the Indigenous Peoples Cultural Centre in Stratford. If you have less time, consider reducing the time spent at museums and focusing on outdoor activities such as hiking, or cycling.

Airports

Toronto Pearson International Airport (YYZ) is the busiest airport, located in Mississauga, Ontario. It is around 22.5 km northwest of downtown Toronto, accessible by taxi or Uber ride which will cost around $55. The next closest airport is Ottawa International Airport (YOW) around 13 km south of downtown Ottawa, accessible by bus or taxi.

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