Ottawa, Canada

15 Best Things to Do in Ottawa

The sights travelers rate highest in Ottawa, with what makes each worth your time.

Ranked by traveler review volume across 37 places we track in Ottawa. Updated monthly.

  1. CF Rideau Centre

    MarketFree entry

    CF Rideau Centre is a premier shopping destination in the heart of Ottawa, situated in the vibrant Byward Market neighborhood.

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  2. Murder Mystery Ottawa

    Entertainment

    Murder Mystery Ottawa is an immersive theatrical experience held at The Prescott hotel in Ottawa, Canada.

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  3. Free of the Central Experimental Farm

    Park & natureFree entry

    The Free of the Central Experimental Farm, commonly referred to as the Central Experimental Farm (CEF), is a unique blend of agricultural research station and public green space in Ottawa.

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  4. Dows Lake Pavilion

    LandmarkFree entry

    Dows Lake Pavilion is a beloved recreational hub located in the heart of Ottawa, nestled along the shores of Dow's Lake within the Rideau Canal system.

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  5. Holtz Spa

    Sight

    Holtz Spa is a tranquil wellness retreat located on the second floor of 135 Rideau Street in the heart of Ottawa's vibrant Byward Market.

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  6. The Glebe

    NeighborhoodFree entry

    The Glebe is one of Ottawa's most beloved neighborhoods, stretching from the Rideau Canal north to the Queensway.

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  7. Shaw Centre

    SightFree entry

    Shaw Centre is a premier convention and event venue located in the heart of Ottawa's Byward Market district.

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  8. Canadian Tulip Festival

    SightFree entry

    The Canadian Tulip Festival is a vibrant celebration of spring held annually in Ottawa, the nation's capital.

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  9. Westboro

    LandmarkFree entry

    Westboro is a lively, walkable neighborhood in Ottawa's west end, blending small-town charm with urban sophistication.

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  10. Absolute Comedy Ottawa

    Entertainment

    Absolute Comedy Ottawa is a premier entertainment venue located at 412 Preston St, 1646 Saxony Crescent, Ottawa, Ontario.

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  11. ISO SPA Floatation Centre

    Sight

    ISO SPA Floatation Centre is a wellness facility located on Bank Street in Ottawa, specializing in floatation therapy.

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  12. The Highlander Pub

    SightFree entry

    The Highlander Pub is a beloved watering hole in downtown Ottawa, offering a cozy Scottish-inspired retreat from the bustling Rideau Street.

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  13. Boreal River Adventures - Ottawa River Outpost

    Park & nature

    Boreal River Adventures - Ottawa River Outpost is a premier outdoor adventure company specializing in whitewater rafting, kayaking, and other water sports on the Ottawa River.

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  14. Capital Information Kiosk

    SightFree entry

    The Capital Information Kiosk is a helpful starting point for visitors exploring Ottawa, located directly across from Parliament Hill at 90 Wellington Street.

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  15. Canada Day

    SightFree entry

    Canada Day on Parliament Hill in Ottawa is the country's largest birthday party, held every July 1st.

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The full picture, restaurants included, lives in the categories below.

Attractions & sights

Landmarks, museums, neighborhoods

37 places

Restaurants

Where to eat

Explore

Day trips

Escapes near the city

Coming soon

Experiences & tours

Book things to do

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Photo spots

Best views

Coming soon

Wellness

Spas & relaxation

Coming soon

Off the beaten path

4 hidden gems in Ottawa

Like ISO SPA Floatation Centre and Boreal River Adventures - Ottawa River Outpost, loved by reviewers, skipped by tour groups.

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Costs nothing

12 free things to do in Ottawa

Verified free entry, CF Rideau Centre included.

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Best things to do in Canada
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