Favorite Corners - Ottawa
We spent a few days in Ottawa to take in the beautiful fall colors, admire the river views, and to see what else is here besides government things. With its easily walkable and compact city centre, Ottawa was a fun place to explore.
Welcome to the ByWard Market, one of Canada’s oldest famers’ markets (up and running since 1826). The old building still remains at the heart of this area, but the food and shopping ambience has spread into the surrounding blocks which are also worth checking out.
There are two Ottawa signs. This one is located in the ByWard Market area. The other Ottawa sign is located along Sparks Street. The one on Sparks street is missing one of the “T'“s, so it’s a good opportunity for people to strike a pose in the space where the missing letter should be.
Speaking of Sparks Street…you know you’re on it when the lampposts look like this. Lined with restaurants, shops, and the occasional public art piece, there’s always something happening along this pedestrian thoroughfare. When we were there, the Ottawa PoutineFest was being held and the middle area was filled with food trucks selling the best of the best poutines.
Opened in 1912, the Fairmont Château Laurier looks more castle than hotel. Situated right next to the Rideau Canal and overlooking the Ottawa River, this is a prime tourist spot for prime tourist dollars. A room here on a summer Saturday night can easily cost over $500 (researched at the time of this post).
Right next to the Fairmont Château Laurier runs locks 1-8 which connect the Rideau Canal to the Ottawa River. And look at the autumn trees along the water!
Built in the early 1800’s, the locks are still in operation today (although not during the winter). There are pathways leading down and around these locks for further exploration and continue on down to the waterfront.
The National War memorial depicts 22 bronze figures moving from darkness into light. Originally built to commemorate those who fought and died during the First World War, it now commemorates all who’ve ever died in service. Changing of the guards and the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier are also found here.
Ottawa is packed with museums and we didn’t have much time. So, we picked the two nearest and biggest to where we were. First up, we took in some creative energy at the country’s largest art gallery The National Gallery of Canada.
The Garden Court is a tranquil place amidst the paintings, sculptures, and exhibits. However, note the little ramp in the back behind where those two women are sitting. That leads to a semi-hidden exhibit that we loved, but almost missed.
I won’t give away the full creative extent of the exhibit, but here is a hint.
Okay, admittedly, the next museum we went to is not in Ottawa or even in the province of Ontario. We crossed the Alexandra bridge to Gatineau, Quebec, took in some fantastic views of Parliament Hill and ended up at…
…the Canadian Museum of History (the country’s oldest and most visited museum).
A close up of some of the totems and carvings in the Grand Hall of the Canadian Museum of History.
Some final fall colors before heading off to our next adventure.
Wanna see a quick glimpse of the highlights? Check out our video!