You don’t truly get Ottawa until you spend a few days walking its waterfront paths, sipping cocktails by the canal, and diving headfirst into its mix of history, culture, and quiet cool. It’s like that friend you thought was kind of reserved until you caught them dancing at a dive bar — suddenly you’re like, wait… you’re actually amazing?

So here’s how I spent a few days in Ottawa, living my best capital city life — museums, markets, rooftop views, and enough poutine to warrant an apology to my jeans.

Stay Somewhere with a View

I set up base at the Andaz Ottawa ByWard Market, which is basically Pinterest if it were a hotel. Rooftop bar? Check. Sleek, minimal design? Check. Walking distance to everything? Double check.

If you’re looking for something with more old-world charm, The Metcalfe Hotel also delivers serious boutique vibes with gorgeous interiors and a location steps from Parliament Hill.

Explore the Icons — But with a Twist

Yes, you have to do Parliament Hill. Even if you’ve seen a million photos, walking up to those Gothic Revival towers in real life hits different. In spring and summer, catch the Changing of the Guard ceremony or one of the free walking tours.

Nearby, take a stroll along the Rideau Canal, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that doubles as a boating dream in summer and the world’s largest skating rink in winter. For a quieter (and photogenic) view, walk over to the National Arts Centre Terrace for a peaceful overlook of the canal and Château Laurier.

History buff or not, you’ll love the Canadian Museum of History (across the river in Gatineau), which might just be one of the most stunning buildings in the country. Or head to the National Gallery of Canada and say hello to Maman — the giant spider statue guarding the front entrance.

Market Mornings & Downtown Wanders

My mornings started at ByWard Market, and no, not just for the shopping — for the snacks. I snagged a breakfast sandwich and espresso at Planet Coffee, then wandered through the market stalls filled with handmade jewelry, fresh tulips, and maple everything.

You’ll want to grab a famous BeaverTail — a fried dough treat topped with cinnamon sugar, chocolate, or whatever else your sweet tooth dreams up. It’s touristy, yes, but 100% worth it.

Later, I browsed the boutiques along Sussex Drive and popped into Victoire Boutique, a women-owned gem filled with ethically-made fashion from Canadian designers.

Sip, Dine, and Repeat

Let’s talk food, because Ottawa gets very real in the restaurant department. One night, I splurged on dinner at Riviera — a moody, art deco-inspired spot in a converted bank, with the kind of cocktails that make you text your ex and delete it before hitting send.

Another night was more casual, but equally tasty: tacos and tequila at El Camino on Elgin Street, where the vibe is neon-lit, fast-paced, and fun.

Need a brunch rec? Wilf & Ada’s is small, cozy, and always busy for a reason — the sourdough toast and eggs Benny are no joke. For coffee, Happy Goat and Bridgehead both deliver top-notch caffeine and chill vibes.

See the City from a Kayak (or a Rooftop)

Ottawa is sneakily outdoorsy — and I mean that in the best way. You can rent a kayak or paddleboard through Urban Adventures and paddle right past Parliament on the Ottawa River. There’s nothing like floating through the heart of the city with the skyline on one side and nature on the other.

If you prefer your views dry and cocktail-adjacent, head to the rooftop bar at Copper Spirits and Sights, perched on the 16th floor of the Andaz. The view at sunset? Unreal.

Final Thoughts

Ottawa doesn’t scream for your attention — it invites you in quietly, then surprises you with its depth. It’s political, yes. But also artistic, adventurous, a little quirky, and full of moments that stick with you long after you leave.

So whether you're here for the Parliament selfies, the market mornings, the skyline paddles, or the museum marathons, just know: you're going to fall a little bit in love with Canada’s capital. I definitely did.