An Insider's Guide to Ottawa
Let a Canadian Advise You on the Best the Capital City has to Offer
Apr 11, 2008
The fourth-largest city in and capital of Canada, Ottawa is located in the eastern portion of Ontario, on the banks of the Ottawa River that divides the province from Quebec. It is about a five-hour drive from the provincial capital, Toronto, and a two-hour drive from Montreal.
What to See
The literal and metaphorical centre of Ottawa is the seat of Canada's federal government, referred to as Parliament Hill (Wellingston St.). Built in the Gothic style reminiscent of Britain's Parliament, guided tours are offered several times a day. Included is a ride up the "Peace Tower," Canada's answer to the British "Big Ben," where visitors can get a stunning 360-degree view of the city.
Down below, the National Arts Centre (53 Elgin St.) is just across the street from Parliament., at Confederation Square. A relaxing dinner at one of the many restaurants in the nearby Byward Market, followed by a world-class performance, from dance to classical music to theatre, makes for a perfect night out in the downtown.
A walk back in the opposite direction, past the grand Chateau Laurier, will bring you to the National Art Gallery (380 Sussex Drive; open daily 10-5 pm and until 8 pm on Thursdays). The Gallery houses Canada's national art collection and also hosts world-class special exhibitions.
Across the Ottawa River, within sight of Parliament Hill, is the Canadian Museum of Civilization (100 Laurier St.; open 9-6 pm and until 9 pm on Thursdays). Featuring pieces from both Canadian and world culture, it's a great place to bring the family as well: there is an Imax theatre and a bright children's section that issues "passports" which allow kids to "travel" the world through a series of interactive displays. Additional museums include the newly built Canadian War Museum and several others dedicated to nature, science and technology, aviation and agriculture.
Last but not least is the Rideau Canal, named a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which winds through the centre of Ottawa. In the winter, it is the world's largest skating rink and in the summer it becomes a waterway filled with sightseeing cruises, boats, canoes and kayaks.
Where to Stay
If money is no matter, the best place to stay in Ottawa is the landmark Chateau Laurier, situated down the street from Parliament Hill at 1 Rideau Street. Known for playing host to heads of state, political figures, royalty and celebrities, the average tourist may need to settle for a short visit to its decadent lobby and ornate washrooms.
For the budget traveler, Ottawa offers a centrally located hostel with a few twists. The Ottawa Jail Hostel (75 Nicholas Street, 613-235-2595) is the only hostel in North American located in a former prison. Travelers can sleep in former jails cells, the prison hospital, or even the governor's quarters. The 8th floor has been preserved, and tours are held to for visitors to see and learn what life was like in the former prison. This includes life beyond the grave as well-- the hostel is reputed to be haunted.
For those of average means there are a great number of options, from chain hotels to bed and breakfasts. A thorough list can be found here.
Where to Eat
Ottawa's best cuisine reflects its cultural mosaic. In the neighborhood known as the "Glebe" can be found Light of India (730 Bank St; 613-563-4411), an authentic, family-run restaurant that uses organic ingredients to cook up some of the best curries in town, and at very reasonable prices.
On the pricier side, but well worth the extra, is Sweetgrass (108 Murray St; 613-562-3683), located downtown in the Byward Market. This gourmet bistro serves authentic Aboriginal dishes that change with the season and include traditional meats such as game hen and buffalo. To complete the experience, the walls are decorated with colourful Aboriginal artwork for sale.
A little farther afield is Ottawa's quaint Chinatown, where you'll find the Mekong (637 Somerset St; 613-237-7717), serving authentic Cantonese, Szechwan, Vietnamese and Thai food. Be sure to try the crispy beef and rice paper shrimp rolls.
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