In the morning, start off with a guided tour of the iconic Parliament Buildings and learn about Canada's political history. In the afternoon, head over to Byward Market, Ottawa's oldest and busiest farmers' market, to indulge in local delicacies and buy souvenirs. In the evening, watch the Sound and Light Show on Parliament Hill, a beautiful display of Canada's history projected onto the Parliament Buildings.
Start your day with a visit to the National Gallery of Canada, home to over 75,000 works of art, including famous pieces by Canadian artists like Tom Thomson and Emily Carr, as well as international artists like Van Gogh and Monet. In the afternoon, head over to the Canadian Museum of History, where you can learn about Canada's rich cultural heritage and admire the stunning architecture of the building. In the evening, take a stroll along the Rideau Canal, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the oldest continuously operated canal system in North America.
If you have extra time, consider visiting the Canadian War Museum, the Royal Canadian Mint, or the Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica. For a side trip, take a scenic drive to Gatineau Park, where you can hike, bike, or swim in the summer, or ski or snowshoe in the winter. To maximize your fun, consider taking a guided bike tour of the city or booking a hot air balloon ride. Finally, don't forget to try some of Ottawa's famous poutine, a dish of French fries, gravy, and cheese curds that is a Canadian staple.
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