Ottawa is one of Canada’s oldest cities, and therefore one of the most historic cities as well. History can be felt in this city, while you are visiting the downtown or Lowertown of Ottawa. The downtown and Lowertown area (also known as Byward) are some of the oldest parts of Ottawa. Here you will find the iconic Parliament buildings, the famous Chateau Laurier, Rideau Canal, Byward Market, and the Notre Dame Cathedral Basilica of Ottawa. These are all must see places while you visit. In case you are a travelling on a budget, you are in luck; all these places are free to visit!
The Parliament buildings of Canada are an icon around the world. The green turned copper roofs, the towers, and the intricate stonework are all works of art. The Parliament building is located near the Rideau Canal, in downtown Ottawa. Fun fact: the building of Parliament is not the original one. The Parliament building was originally constructed in 1866. In 1916, the centre block of parliament was destroyed by a fire, and only the library of Parliament was left unburned. It was reconstructed in 1928. Currently, there are restorations underway, and set to complete by 2032.
Visitors are still welcome to view the Parliament grounds, as well as partake in tours. There are free tours available to the public, for the House of Commons and the Senate of Canada. Bookings should be made in advance, online. They can be booked here. The tour guides are knowledgeable and upbeat. Pictures are allowed, as long as you do not take any of the service workers or guards. It is such a great opportunity to see history in person. If you are a history nerd, this is a must see! Along with the guided tours, members from the public are allowed to attend the chamber meetings at Parliament. You might be so lucky to see the Parliament in action!
There are gargoyles on the outside, guarding the building. The heavy wooden doors are carved with expertise carpentry: flowers and other intricate designs are laid into these doors. The whole building is done in a Neo-gothic style, very reminiscent of the type of architecture you would expect to see in Britain or France. Inside the Centre Block of Parliament, you will have an opportunity to step into a world out of time. Artwork from the 1800’s, as well as paintings of all the Prime Ministers of Canada are on display along the hallways and gathering spaces. Artwork featured from Canadian artists from across the nation are also showcased, such as Sedna sculpture. Sedna is a sea goddess from Inuit mythology. It is a one-of-a-kind sculpture, showcasing indigenous talent.
Next up, walk over to the famous Rideau Canal. This waterway is known for its picturesque scene. The Bytown Museum is located here too and is free for all visitors. Take a peek into the past. Anyone can walk across the Rideau Canal using the narrow walkways located along the gates of the sectioned parts, as long as you do not feel scared of heights or water. Boat tours along the Rideau canal are a fun way to see more of Ottawa, as well as a fun experience. There are various companies that can take you along the waterway, all easy to book right there in person.
The historic Chateau Laurier, a beautiful building, is located next to the Rideau Canal. It is rumored to be haunted. Guests of this hotel have claimed to feel the presence of ghosts. Enter at your own discretion. Or do what many do, and just enjoy the view from the outside, whether it be from the canal, the main road, or from the gardens at Major Hills Park, which is located to the back of Chateau Laurier. Major Hills Park gives amazing views of Ottawa. From here, you can see the National Gallery of Canada (a museum), which features a giant spider statue, the Notre Dame Cathedral towers, and Parliament itself. Enjoy a break from your walk, from wandering around the city. Have a picnic, or chitchat with locals. This space is meant to be enjoyed by all. During the spring and summer months, you will see picnic blankets galore, families with children, the University of Ottawa students, and tourists all having a good time. Be sure to check out the beautiful flowers while you are there.
From the Major Hills Park, head over to the Notre Dame Cathedral Basilica Ottawa. Do not confuse this with the famous one in France. This Notre Dame is located across from the National Gallery of Ottawa. It features two towers, all shiny and white, which can be seen from across the neighboring city of Gatineau in Quebec. This cathedral is open to anyone, regardless of religion. It feels like a step back in time when you enter. The stained-glass windows, the ornate statues, and vibrant artwork are all breathtaking. You feel as though you have teleported into Europe and are no longer in Canada. If you go on a Sunday, you might even be able to sit in on a function or hear the choir. The atmosphere is light and peaceful. In the basement you can find a gift shop and café. Sit and enjoy yourself or wander around and find some historical artifacts.
Byward Market should be a stop while visiting Ottawa. Byward Market is the name for the whole neighborhood, not just the building itself! The neighborhood usually is buzzing, with many events and activities. You will find escape rooms, board game cafes, a number of restaurants and cafes, as well as comedy clubs. This is where all the fun happens. Do not feel as though Ottawa is a boring place. There is much to discover in the Byward Market. Whatever type of food you prefer, chances are you will find it. Ottawa itself is quite diverse, with people settling here from around the world. There are little shops that have European delicacies, as well as French bakeries, selling fresh pastries and bread daily, to the gelato shops, and of course Beaver Tails. When in Ottawa, if you have never had a Bever Tail, it is a must to try! Bever Tails are flat fried sweet bread, and then lightly tossed in cinnamon and sugar, however you can have other toppings as well, such as chocolate and bananas! Yummmy.
Byward Market Heritage Hall, as in the actual market, was built in the late 1820’s and early 1830’s. It has been around since, changing over the years. In the past, this is where farmers and vendors would sell their produce and goods. Now, it is home to many quaint shops and cafes. The Byward Café has some of the best coffee in Ottawa, and costs under $3. Make sure to step in for a bite to eat, as they have a good array of sweets and paninis. At the other end of the Byward Market, you will find an open style bakery, with so many options of pastries. It is a hard choice to make here. The Byward Market Heritage Hall is open year-round, almost every single day. There is usually music to be heard outside, events running every other weekend, as well as local artists performing just outside. Be sure to check them out – it’s a free concert! The famous “Ottawa” sign is just around the corner from the Byward Market. Be sure to get in a photo op.