9 Beautiful Not To Miss Places In Ottawa, Canada

Regardless of when you choose to visit Ottawa, there is always a plethora of exciting activities and sights to enjoy. From historical landmarks to lively streets and breathtaking waterfronts, this Canadian city is a top destination for tourists. If you are someone who enjoys taking photos on your travels, then Ottawa is a dream come true. The city is brimming with Instagram-worthy locations, offering endless opportunities to update your social media account. So, snap some shots of the stunning landscapes, take some memorable selfies, and fill your feed with unforgettable memories from the nation's capital.

Located in the eastern part of Canada, Ottawa is the capital city of the country. Known for its rich history, vibrant culture, and beautiful landscapes, Ottawa attracts millions of visitors every year. The city offers a unique blend of modern and traditional architecture, with stunning landmarks such as the Parliament Hill and the National Gallery of Canada. Whether you're interested in exploring museums, indulging in delicious cuisine, or enjoying the great outdoors, Ottawa has something for everyone. In this city, you can immerse yourself in a world of fun and adventure, making it one of the best places to visit in Canada.

# Nepean Lookout Point

Are you looking to capture stunning shots of Ottawa's iconic landmarks such as the Parliament and the Canadian Museum of History? Look no further than the Nepean Lookout Point. This popular attraction not only offers breathtaking views of the Ottawa River but also boasts a statue of Samuel de Champlain, the famous explorer of the river. If you happen to be there on Canada Day, you can also witness spectacular fireworks lighting up the sky.

The Nepean Lookout Point offers not only stunning views but also an opportunity to take amazing photos of the Ottawa River, the Canadian Museum of History, and the Parliament. One of its main attractions is the statue of Samuel de Champlain, the renowned explorer of the river. If you visit the lookout point on Canada Day, you will be treated to a spectacular fireworks display that would make a perfect backdrop for your Instagram post. Even on other days, you can enjoy a leisurely stroll, admire the magnificent architecture, and capture them all through your camera lens.

# Ottawa Sign

The Ottawa sign, also known as the capital fixture, is a popular spot for those who want to share regular updates on Instagram while in Ottawa. Located in the Byward Market, the sign is often compared to the Montreal sign and attracts numerous tourists. Although initially planned as a summer feature only, the sign's popularity led to its adoption by the government in 2018 at Inspiration Village. If you visit, you will be compelled to take a selfie with the sign in the background.

# Parliament Hill

Touring Parliament Hill is an essential part of your Ottawa trip. This historical site serves as the Federal government seat of Canada and boasts a neo-Gothic-style building overlooking the Ottawa River. Free guided tours are available for those who want to explore every nook and corner of the place. The glass-roofed courtyard is particularly famous for its breathtaking beauty, and it's hard to resist capturing a shot of the stunning architecture. During your guided tour, you'll also encounter picturesque greenery and a vast stretch of the river, making it an unmissable photo opportunity.

# Byward Market

If you're in the Byward Market neighborhood, you cannot miss the opportunity to take some snaps, even if photography is not your forte. This bustling market is pedestrian-friendly and offers a plethora of walking tours through its array of coffee shops, bars, restaurants, and boutique shops. These make for a fine aesthetic shot to add to your Instagram page.

Located in the historic neighborhood of Byward Market, this market is a bustling hub in the city and attracts millions of tourists annually. Did you know that it's also the oldest Farmers' market in Canada? Yes, it's true! Since its inception, the market has been a melting pot of history, culture, and trade.

# National Gallery of Canada

For those interested in contemporary artwork, a visit to the National Gallery of Canada is a must. Located in the heart of the city, this historic granite-and-glass building is a popular spot for discovering a vast collection of sculptures, paintings, and artworks from different periods. One of the most notable attractions is the 30-foot-tall spider sculpture created by Louise Bourgeois, which offers a magnificent spot to take a snapshot.

The museum houses over 40,000 artworks from around the world in its treasure trove. After completing your tour of the museum, head to Kìwekì Point to enjoy a panoramic view of Gatineau and Ottawa cities. With numerous capturing options available, you'll undoubtedly leave with your camera full of pictures.

# York Street Steps Mural

If you have a passion for photography, then a must-visit place for you is the York Street Steps Mural. These steps connect the Byward Market to Major's Hill Park in the city. Along the steps, you'll find several abstract murals, which are generally painted by local artists during the spring and summer months. The murals feature a multitude of colors that represent Canada's diversity and multicultural heritage. It's hard to resist taking pictures at a spot with such a meaningful message.

# Chateau Laurier

Chateau Laurier is an Instagram-worthy spot that perfectly captures the essence of the city's tourist hotspots. Originally built as a hotel that resembles a 17th-century French castle, it offers stunning views of Parliament Hill, Byward Market, and Rideau Canal. Its history dates back to 1912, and it remains among the top icons of the Canadian metropolis.

Chateau Laurier is listed in the National Historic Sites of Canada, and its public space is open to all. You can explore vast collections of paintings, photographs, and statues of renowned personalities who visited the hotel and the famous occasions held here. While enjoying a cup of coffee at the open-air La Terrasse patio restaurant, capture the beautiful views of the sunset at the Ottawa River behind you. Don't forget to taste the delicious cuisine at Wilfrid's restaurant or sip a crafted cocktail at Zoe's. Be sure to take a snapshot of the fantastic food along with the view.

# Rideau Canal

Are you seeking a picturesque waterway to snap some photos for your Instagram feed? Then you must visit Rideau Canal, a historical canal designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most scenic places to enjoy the natural beauty of Ottawa. The canal is connected to the Ottawa River by eight locks, which are manually operated. If you have some free time, you can witness the locks in operation.

The Rideau Canal Pathways that run alongside the canal are also noteworthy attractions. During the winter months, there are several snow activities to participate in. However, the best time to visit the canal is in May, when the tulips are in full bloom, creating a stunning paradise for visitors.

# Bank Street

Bank Street is the perfect destination for street photography enthusiasts visiting Ottawa. The historic neighborhood is home to numerous shops, restaurants, and bars, and is also known for being the longest street in the city. You'll discover a range of striking murals as you stroll along the street, while the charming neighborhoods with their beautifully manicured lawns and gardens will leave you enchanted. The street truly comes alive at night, when the nightlife scene kicks off and the party atmosphere takes over.