Exploring Ottawa, Niagara, Toronto, and Alberta

Wednesday, August 30: Ottawa

In the morning, visit Parliament Hill and take a guided tour of the iconic Centre Block. Explore the ByWard Market for lunch and indulge in local cuisine. In the afternoon, discover the National Gallery of Canada with its impressive art collection. Enjoy the evening at the Rideau Canal, taking a leisurely stroll or renting a paddleboat.

• Parliament Hill: Cost - Free, Time spent - 2-3 hours
• ByWard Market: Cost - Varies, Time spent - 1-2 hours
• National Gallery of Canada: Cost - Adult: $15, Senior/Student: $13, Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Rideau Canal: Cost - Free, Time spent - 1-2 hours

Thursday, August 31: Niagara Falls

Start your day with a breathtaking boat tour to the base of Niagara Falls. Explore the Niagara Falls State Park for stunning views and photo opportunities. In the afternoon, visit the Niagara-on-the-Lake region for wine tasting and scenic drives. In the evening, enjoy the dazzling illumination of the falls.

• Niagara Falls Boat Tour: Cost - Adult: $25, Child: $16, Time spent - 1-2 hours
• Niagara Falls State Park: Cost - Adult: $5, Child: $3, Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Niagara-on-the-Lake: Cost - Varies, Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Evening Illumination of the Falls: Cost - Free, Time spent - 1 hour

Friday, September 1: Toronto

In the morning, visit the iconic CN Tower for panoramic views of Toronto. Explore the Royal Ontario Museum to delve into art, culture, and natural history. After lunch, wander through the vibrant neighborhoods of Kensington Market and Graffiti Alley. Spend the evening at the Distillery District, known for its historic architecture and lively atmosphere.

• CN Tower: Cost - Adult: $38, Child: $28, Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Royal Ontario Museum: Cost - Adult: $23, Senior/Student: $18, Time spent - 3-4 hours
• Kensington Market: Cost - Varies, Time spent - 1-2 hours
• Distillery District: Cost - Free, Time spent - 2-3 hours

Saturday, September 2: Alberta (Calgary)

Start your day by exploring the stunning Banff National Park, approximately 1.5 hours from Calgary. Take in the breathtaking views of Lake Louise and hike to the scenic Moraine Lake. Indulge in local cuisine at Banff Avenue and visit the Banff National Park Museum. Enjoy the evening by strolling through Prince's Island Park along the Bow River.

• Banff National Park: Cost - Park Entrance: Adult: $10, Child: Free, Time spent - Full day
• Lake Louise: Cost - Free, Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Moraine Lake: Cost - Free, Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Banff Avenue: Cost - Varies, Time spent - 1-2 hours
• Prince's Island Park: Cost - Free, Time spent - 1-2 hours

Sunday, September 3: Alberta (Jasper)

Embark on a scenic drive to Jasper National Park, approximately 4-5 hours from Banff. Explore the stunning Athabasca Falls and take a thrilling ride on the Jasper SkyTram for panoramic views. Enjoy a picnic lunch at Maligne Lake and hike to the iconic Spirit Island. In the evening, relax at the Miette Hot Springs.

• Athabasca Falls: Cost - Free, Time spent - 1-2 hours
• Jasper SkyTram: Cost - Adult: $49, Child: $26, Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Maligne Lake: Cost - Free, Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Spirit Island: Cost - Free, Time spent - 1-2 hours
• Miette Hot Springs: Cost - Adult: $7.50, Child: $6, Time spent - 1-2 hours

Monday, September 4: Alberta (Edmonton)

Start the day by visiting the West Edmonton Mall, one of the largest shopping malls in the world. Enjoy various attractions, including the World Waterpark, Galaxyland Amusement Park, and the Ice Palace Skating Rink. Afterward, explore the Alberta Legislature Building and stroll through the beautiful river valley parks. End the day with a delicious dinner at Whyte Avenue.

• West Edmonton Mall: Cost - Varies, Time spent - Full day
• Alberta Legislature Building: Cost - Free, Time spent - 1-2 hours
• River Valley Parks: Cost - Free, Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Whyte Avenue: Cost - Varies, Time spent - 2-3 hours

Tuesday, September 5: Alberta (Calgary)

Return to Calgary and explore the vibrant downtown area. Visit the Calgary Tower for panoramic views of the city and surrounding landscapes. Discover the Glenbow Museum, showcasing art, history, and culture. Enjoy a leisurely walk along the Stephen Avenue Walk and indulge in local cuisine before departing for your next destination.

• Calgary Tower: Cost - Adult: $18, Child: $9, Time spent - 1-2 hours
• Glenbow Museum: Cost - Adult: $16, Senior/Student: $11, Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Stephen Avenue Walk: Cost - Varies, Time spent - 1-2 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

While exploring Alberta, don't miss the stunning beauty of the Icefields Parkway, a scenic drive between Jasper and Banff National Parks. Visit the charming town of Canmore near Banff for its picturesque landscapes and outdoor activities. In Toronto, the St. Lawrence Market is a food lover's paradise, offering a variety of fresh produce and local delights.