Travel Blog: Wanderlust in Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
Ottawa, Canada’s capital city, is a destination that has so much history, culture, and natural beauty. Nestled along the banks of the Ottawa River, this vibrant city offers an array of activities and sights that cater to all kinds of travellers. Whether you're a history buff, an outdoor enthusiast, or a foodie, Ottawa has something for everyone. Here’s a glimpse into my recent trip to this charming city.
Parliament Hill: I was blown away by Parliament Hill, the political and cultural heart of Canada. Situated on a scenic bluff overlooking the Ottawa River the stunning 19th-century European buildings are a must-see. The original buildings were constructed between 1859 and 1866, designed in the Gothic Revival style which was popular in 19th-century Europe. The Centre Block, with its distinctive Peace Tower, is the most recognizable structure. It houses the House of Commons and the Senate. The East and West Blocks, which flank the Centre Block, contain offices for members of Parliament and other government officials. The Centennial Flame is an iconic monument located front and center it was ignited on January 1, 1967, to mark the 100th anniversary of the Canadian Confederation.
ByWard Market A short walk from Parliament Hill brought me to the bustling ByWard Market. This historic market, one of Canada’s oldest, is a sensory delight with its mix of fresh produce, artisanal goods, and unique boutiques. I enjoyed a leisurely lunch at Grand Pizzeria and Bar on George Street. The patio sits on the corner of George Street and William Street where the food, wine and service was amazing! A perfect spot to stop and rest my feet while still soaking up the vibe of ByWard Market area.
Rideau Center A premier shopping destination in downtown Ottawa, Canada. It's known for its wide array of retail stores, dining options, and entertainment facilities, making it a central hub for both locals and tourists. A great spot to escape from the rain, I found Pilgram jewellery which I fell in love with and bought a few too many pieces. Their jewellery is handmade in Denmark with lots of pieces made from recycled metals. I love their mission and their style…maybe we will stock some of their pieces… stay tuned! About Pilgram
Tips for Visiting Ottawa
- Timing Your Visit: Ottawa is a year-round destination, but the best times to visit are spring (for the famous Tulip Festival) and fall (for the beautiful foliage). Summer is also great, with many outdoor festivals and events.
- Getting Around: Ottawa is very walkable, especially downtown. For longer distances, consider renting a bike or using public transportation. The city also has a convenient light rail system.
- Local Delicacies: Don’t miss trying local dishes like poutine, BeaverTails, and maple syrup products. The ByWard Market is a great place to sample these treats.
- Cultural Etiquette: Canadians are known for their politeness. Basic courtesies like saying “please” and “thank you” go a long way. Also, remember to respect the city’s green spaces and historic sites.
Where I stayed: reStays Luxury Boutique Hotel on Queen Street which was the best location. I was able to walk everywhere, for breakfast there are many cafes nearby; this was my favorite to wake up in the morning and be able to walk for a breakfast sandwich and coffee while getting an early morning glimpse of Parliament Hill. In June the mornings are still cool so getting a quick warm up at the Centennial Flame is recommended!
Overall, I was pleasantly surprised by Ottawa, I am native to Canada (born and raised Western Canada) and I had never been to Ottawa until now. ByWard Market reminds me of Banff, and the history and beauty of the city as a whole sucked me in. I would recommend, take the trip… and wear the outfit! My outfit go-to for exploring on a trip is a layered basic midi dress with some trendy accessories and sneakers so I can walk all day long. My feature outfit for this trip is:
Just Saying Hi Sleeveless Midi Sweater Dress
In Denim We Trust Buttoned Denim Vest Top
Travel dates: June 10 – June 13, 2024 (A solo trip - just me).
LaVerne (Z & Joxa Founder)