The opportunity came about to visit Ottawa, and although it was extremely cold, of course, I took it.
Ottawa is Canada's capital which is near the city of Montréal and the U.S. border. One of its top tourist attraction is the Parliament Hill. The Parliament Hill is the political and cultural heart of the city. Its location is breathtaking. The tours are free and are available daily, including a chance to head up to the Peace Tower for an incredible view of the city.
The Parliament Building is so beautifully structured with gorgeous Gothic-style architecture. Behind the building, you'll see the Ottawa River and the Alexandra Bridge which connects Ottawa, Ontario and Gatineau, Quebec (photo below).
Additionally, I visited the Royal Canadian Mint Museum, which several Canadians told me to visit. Here I saw the manufacturing facility where the precise art and craft of coin-making is revealed. Automatically, I grew a connection to this museum because growing up I collected coins with my father.
The Mint offers a large selection of unique gifts, souvenirs, and collectibles in their gift shop. Photos and videos during the tour are not permitted.
Before I said goodbye to Ottawa, I made sure to visit ByWard Market. It's a wonderful place for shopping, dining, arts, and entertainment. Actually, it's considered the number one tourist attraction.
Since it was winter time, it wasn't so busy. However, I heard that during the summer it receives about 50,000 visitors per weekend and it's home to local farmers' market and artisans with over 260 stands, as well as over 600 businesses.
For additional information on the places I visited check below.
Address: Wellington St, Ottawa, ON K1A 0A4, Canada
Hours: Monday - Thursday 8:30am - 6 pm | Friday 8:30am - 5pm | Closed Saturday & Sunday
Price: FREE (First come, First serve)
Address: 320 Sussex Dr, Ottawa, ON K1A 0G8, Canada
Hours: Monday - Sunday 9am - 6pm
Address: 55 By Ward Market Sq. , Ottawa, Ontario K1N 9C3, Canada
Hours: Varies.
