Celebrate Canada National Day in Ottawa: A Festive 3-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival & Downtown

Ottawa, Canada on July 1, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Wilf & Ada's

Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Wilf & Ada's, known for their fresh ingredients and cozy ambiance, perfect for fueling a day of sightseeing.
CAD20, 1h

9:30am

Explore ByWard Market

Discover local shops, fresh produce, and artisan goods in the vibrant ByWard Market area, a great introduction to Ottawa's lively culture.
Free, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at Fairouz Cafe

Enjoy authentic Middle Eastern cuisine at Fairouz, offering fresh, flavorful plates that celebrate diverse culinary traditions.
CAD25, 1h

1:30pm

Visit the National Gallery of Canada

Explore an impressive collection of Canadian and indigenous art in this iconic glass and granite museum, open from 10am to 5pm.
CAD20, 2h

3:45pm

Walk along the Rideau Canal

Enjoy a scenic stroll or rent a bike along this UNESCO World Heritage Site, taking in beautiful views and historic locks.
Free, 1h

6:00pm

Dinner at Play Food & Wine

Delight in a sharing-style dinner with small plates and excellent wine selections in a chic setting near downtown.
CAD40, 1.5h

Day 2: Canada Day Festivities

Ottawa, Canada on July 2, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Art-Is-In Bakery

Enjoy fresh, artisanal baked goods and coffee at this local favorite, setting a perfect tone for a celebratory day.
CAD15, 1h

9:30am

Canada Day Celebrations at Parliament Hill

Participate in the year’s official National Day festivities including concerts, cultural shows, and outdoor activities across Parliament Hill, open all day.
Free, 6h

12:30pm

Lunch at Parliament Hill Event Food Stalls

Sample diverse culinary delights from various vendors as part of the Canada Day festivities, offering authentic Canadian dishes.
CAD20, 1h

4:00pm

Relax at Major’s Hill Park

Unwind post-celebration in this picturesque park that overlooks the Ottawa River and Parliament buildings.
Free, 1h

7:30pm

Dinner at The Whalesbone

Indulge in fresh, sustainable seafood in a casual yet refined setting, perfect before the evening fireworks.
CAD45, 1.5h

10:00pm

Canada Day Fireworks on Parliament Hill

Conclude your day with spectacular fireworks display lighting the Ottawa sky, an iconic National Day tradition.
Free, 1h

Day 3: Museums & Markets

Ottawa, Canada on July 3, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Baker Street Cafe

Enjoy comfort breakfast favorites in a warm and inviting atmosphere to start your last day in Ottawa.
CAD18, 1h

9:30am

Canadian Museum of History

Cross the river to Gatineau and explore the rich history, culture, and heritage of Canada in one of the country’s largest museums, open 9am to 5pm.
CAD20, 2.5h

12:00pm

Lunch at the museum’s Pendulaire Restaurant

Dine in style with views over the Ottawa River, featuring locally sourced cuisine within the museum grounds.
CAD30, 1h

1:30pm

Visit the Bytown Museum

Learn about Ottawa’s origins and the construction of the Rideau Canal in this historic museum next to the canal locks, open 10am to 5pm.
CAD10, 1h

3:00pm

Browse Ottawa Farmers' Market

Enjoy fresh local produce, artisanal products, and handmade crafts at the Ottawa Farmers’ Market, ideal for picking up souvenirs.
Free, 1h

5:00pm

Dinner at El Camino

Finish your trip with vibrant Mexican dishes and creative cocktails in an upbeat ambiance downtown.
CAD35, 1.5h