Ottawa

Canada’s capital city is filled with an abundance of iconic attractions and unique experiences! With Ottawa’s distinctive blend of urban and rural beauty, history and architecture, arts and culture, year-round outdoor activities and vibrant local neighbourhoods, Ottawa is a destination for everyone. 

Located where many rivers meet, the Ottawa region is settled on the traditional and unceded territory of the Anishinabeg Algonquin. The city’s name is derived from the Algonquin word “Odawa,” meaning “to trade.” Today, the Ottawa region remains rich with influences from within and beyond our borders. These influences are most notable in Ottawa’s flourishing culinary scene, where the diversity of cultures is captured in delightful dishes from some of the country’s most celebrated chefs. 

The capital region’s vibrant culinary scene spans fine dining, and craft breweries to fine wines. Chefs and visitors alike will experience a full bounty of fresh products from over 1,000 local farms—more than Montreal, Toronto, Calgary and Vancouver combined. Farm to table sustainable practices and support of local suppliers are a staple in Ottawa’s culinary scene. 

Foodies will delight in Ottawa’s Indigenous culinary programs, Le Cordon Bleu Ottawa Culinary Arts Institute (the only official campus in North America), urban and rural farmers markets, walking and biking food tours and cooking classes with C’est Bon Ottawa. Ottawa is the host of the Canadian Culinary Championships from 2023-2025, and home to award winning chef Brianna Kim.

Ottawa’s vibrant downtown core is flagged by the historic ByWard Market with a rich history in local produce and farmers markets. Now home to 600 independent businesses, including restaurants, cafes and specialty food shops, it’s a go-to spot for foodies, visitors and locals. If you’re craving handcrafted cocktails, the ByWard Market is also home to Ottawa’s rich nightlife. 

The city explodes with pretty patios in the summer with unmatched locations like rooftops overlooking the city, views of waterfalls or the Rideau Canal and scenes of Parliament Hill and the iconic Fairmont Château Laurier.  

Ottawa boasts lively local neigbourhoods filled with unique character and curated experiences. Must-sees include Chinatown, Little Italy, Westboro, Hintonburg, The Glebe, Old Ottawa South and Elgin Street.  

If charming small towns are more to your taste, an abundance of outstanding bistros and cafes await you in rural yet trendy communities, many located on waterfront, including Manotick, Chelsea, Carp and Almonte. There is so much goodness to experience beyond the city limits. 

Tempt your taste buds with a trip to the Ottawa region, a destination that will satisfy the foodie in you!