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7-Day Itinerary: Exploring Ottawa

Monday, August 7: Arrival and Downtown Discovery

Welcome to Ottawa! Start your journey by exploring the heart of the city. Begin your morning at Parliament Hill, where you can witness the changing of the guard ceremony and admire the stunning Gothic-style architecture. In the afternoon, take a stroll along the historic Rideau Canal and enjoy a boat tour. As the evening approaches, head to ByWard Market, a vibrant neighborhood filled with restaurants, shops, and lively street performers.

  • Parliament Hill: Free, 2 hours
  • Rideau Canal: Free, 2-3 hours
  • ByWard Market: Cost varies, 2-3 hours
Restaurants
  • For breakfast, try Wilf & Ada's. This cozy diner serves up delicious breakfast dishes with a modern twist. Average cost for a meal is about $15 per person.
  • For lunch, head to The Grand Pizzeria & Bar. This waterfront restaurant offers a variety of wood-fired pizzas and other Italian delights. Average cost for a meal is about $20 per person.
  • For dinner, dine at Play Food & Wine. This trendy restaurant serves small plates with an emphasis on local and seasonal ingredients. Average cost for a meal is about $40 per person.
Tuesday, August 8: Cultural Heritage and Museums

Immerse yourself in Ottawa's rich cultural heritage today. Begin your morning at the National Gallery of Canada, housing an impressive collection of Canadian and international art. In the afternoon, visit the Canadian Museum of History, where you can explore fascinating exhibits showcasing the country's past. In the evening, take a leisurely walk through Major's Hill Park, offering beautiful views of the Ottawa River and Parliament Hill.

  • National Gallery of Canada: Cost varies, 2-3 hours
  • Canadian Museum of History: Cost varies, 3-4 hours
  • Major's Hill Park: Free, 1-2 hours
Wednesday, August 9: Nature and Adventure

Escape the city and reconnect with nature today. Start your morning by exploring Gatineau Park, located just a short drive from downtown Ottawa. Enjoy hiking trails, scenic lookouts, and peaceful picnic spots. In the afternoon, visit the Canada Aviation and Space Museum, where you can learn about the country's aviation history and even hop into a flight simulator. As the evening approaches, take a relaxing boat cruise along the Ottawa River.

  • Gatineau Park: Free, 4-6 hours
  • Canada Aviation and Space Museum: Cost varies, 2-3 hours
  • Ottawa River Boat Cruise: Cost varies, 2 hours
Thursday, August 10: Historic Sites and Gardens

Explore Ottawa's historic sites and charming gardens today. Start your morning at the Rideau Hall, the official residence of the Canadian monarch. Take a guided tour of the beautifully maintained buildings and stroll through the picturesque gardens. In the afternoon, visit the Diefenbunker, Canada's Cold War Museum, located in an underground bunker. As the evening sets in, take a relaxing walk through the ornamental gardens of the Central Experimental Farm.

  • Rideau Hall: Free, 2-3 hours
  • Diefenbunker: Cost varies, 2-3 hours
  • Central Experimental Farm: Free, 1-2 hours
Friday, August 11: Cultural District and Shopping

Discover Ottawa's vibrant cultural district and indulge in some retail therapy. Begin your morning at the National Arts Centre, where you can catch a performance or explore the exhibition space. In the afternoon, visit the Canadian War Museum, offering a comprehensive look at Canada's military history. As the evening approaches, explore Sparks Street, a pedestrian mall lined with shops, restaurants, and entertainment options.

  • National Arts Centre: Cost varies, 2-3 hours
  • Canadian War Museum: Cost varies, 2-3 hours
  • Sparks Street: Cost varies, 2-3 hours
Saturday, August 12: Outdoor Recreation and Entertainment

Spend the day enjoying outdoor activities and entertainment options. Start your morning by renting a bike and exploring the scenic Ottawa River Pathway. In the afternoon, visit the Canada Science and Technology Museum, where interactive exhibits and demonstrations await. As the evening sets in, catch a live performance at the National Arts Centre or check out the local music scene in one of Ottawa's many bars and venues.

  • Ottawa River Pathway: Cost of bike rental, 3-4 hours
  • Canada Science and Technology Museum: Cost varies, 2-3 hours
  • National Arts Centre or Local Music Venues: Cost varies, evening
Sunday, August 13: Gatineau and Sunset Views

Head across the Ottawa River to Gatineau, Quebec, for a day of exploration and relaxation. Start your morning at the Canadian Museum of History, which showcases fascinating exhibits on Canadian heritage. In the afternoon, visit Gatineau Park once again to soak in the natural beauty and enjoy a picnic. As the evening approaches, make your way to Champlain Lookout in Gatineau Park for breathtaking sunset views of Ottawa from above.

  • Canadian Museum of History: Cost varies, 2-3 hours
  • Gatineau Park: Free, 4-6 hours
  • Champlain Lookout: Free, 1-2 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

While exploring Ottawa, don't miss the opportunity to visit some off-the-beaten-path attractions and places loved by locals. Check out the charming neighborhood of Hintonburg, known for its local shops, cafes, and art galleries. Take a peaceful walk through the Dominion Arboretum, a beautiful botanical garden adjacent to the Central Experimental Farm. Lastly, venture to the quaint village of Manotick, located just outside the city, and explore its historic buildings, boutiques, and scenic waterfront.

For hotel and flight prices in Ottawa, you can check here.

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