Ottawa: Facts that Go Way Beyond Being the Capital

By Editorial Staff 29 Apr, 2024 Cities & Towns

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Ottawa, Canada’s capital city, might be known for Parliament Hill and government buildings, but there’s a whole other side to this city waiting to be discovered.

From quirky museums to culinary delights, get ready to be surprised by Ottawa!

Mind-blowing Facts

1. Winter Wonderland: Ottawa embraces the cold! The Rideau Canal transforms into the world’s largest skating rink during Winterlude, a festival of ice sculptures and frosty fun.

2. Tulip Mania: Every spring, the Canadian Tulip Festival bursts with color, celebrating the gift of tulips from the Netherlands after WWII.

3. Museum Mecca: Ottawa boasts impressive national museums, like the Canadian War Museum, the National Gallery of Canada, and the quirky Diefenbunker (a Cold War bunker turned museum).

4. Haunted History: Take a ghost tour and hear spooky tales of the Bytown Museum, Fairmont Château Laurier, and even Parliament Hill!

5. ByWard Market: Foodie & Shopping Haven: This historic market buzzes with restaurants, shops, and stalls selling fresh produce and artisanal goodies.

6. Nature on Tap: Surprisingly, Ottawa has tons of green space. Explore the Gatineau Park across the river, urban trails, or the Central Experimental Farm.

7. Craft Beer Craze: Ottawa has a thriving craft beer scene, with local breweries and pubs popping up all over the city.

8. Changing of the Guard: But Fancier: Witness the pomp and ceremony of the Changing of the Guard on Parliament Hill, complete with a marching band.

9. Nordik Spa-Nature: Pure Relaxation: Just across the river in Chelsea, Quebec, this world-renowned spa offers Scandinavian-style relaxation amidst stunning scenery.

10. “Shawarma Capital”? Ottawa has a surprisingly high concentration of shawarma shops, reflecting its diverse population and love for this Middle Eastern dish.

11. Hockey Hotbed: The Ottawa Senators ignite the city’s hockey passion, bringing NHL action to the Canadian Tire Centre.

12. Waterway Adventures: Paddle the Rideau Canal, kayak on the Ottawa River, or take a relaxing cruise and admire the city from the water.

13. Festival Fever: Ottawa loves to celebrate! From Bluesfest, a major music event, to the vibrant Dragon Boat Festival, there’s always something happening.

14. Parliament’s Cats: Yes, there’s an official colony of cats on Parliament Hill, tasked with keeping rodents in check!

15. Bilingual City: Ottawa is where English and French Canada meet, creating a unique bilingual atmosphere.

Conclusion

Ottawa is more than just politics and politeness! It’s a city of diverse neighborhoods, surprising culinary scenes, outdoor adventures, and a touch of the unexpected. So, next time you visit, venture beyond those government buildings and discover the true heart of Ottawa.