This museum was established in May 2005, to commemorate the men and women of Canada's armed forces. The museum's mandate is to advance the study of Canada's military history, including the effects of war and conflict on the nation and its citizens. Within its walls are a number of artifacts and exhibits portraying Canada's military history from its earliest days along with Vimy House, the Museum's collections and research facility.
Originally named Colonel's Hill in honor of Colonel John By, the architect of the Canal Rideau, this park was renamed after By was replaced by a Major. The park offers a panoramic view of several major attractions, including Parliament Hill, the Ottawa River, the Museum of Civilization, the National Gallery and Notre-Dame Basilica. It's also the location of Colonel By's original home, or at least its foundation, as well as a statue of the city's founding father. The park is located along MacKenzie Avenue, directly behind the Chateau Laurier Hotel. Visitors can enjoy picnicking at the park's well maintained picnic areas. Taking a walk amidst the lush greenery is not a bad idea either! Escape the hustle bustle of the city and enjoy some tranquil moments at this beautiful park.
Parliament Hill is the political heart of Canada. Situated on a bluff overlooking the Ottawa River, it is actually a collection of three turn-of-the-century Gothic structures known as the East Block, Centre Block and West Block. The West Block and East Block contain the offices of Members of Parliament. The House of Commons and the Senate are located in the Centre Block, with its soaring Peace Tower.
Built between 1827 and 1832 without the aid of powered machinery, the Rideau Canal is one of Ottawa's oldest landmarks. The canal runs from the Ottawa River near Parliament Hill to Hog's Back Falls on the south end of the city. During the summer months, a wide range of vessels, including tour boats, glide along the waterway. Come winter, the canal is transformed into the "World's Longest Skating Rink" and is a hub of activity during Ottawa's Winterlude festival.
Hog's Back Falls, formally known as the Prince of Wales Falls, are artificially created waterfalls. Located on the Rideau River, the falls make for a perfect day trip. Just sitting by the falls, watching the beauty of it all and hearing the sound of the cascading water is sure to make your day. There is a snack bar nearby, making the riverbanks a great picnic spot. Navigate the many trails around the waterfall until you find a good vantage point. During winter, the river freezes, making the waterfalls look truly mesmerizing.
This unique shopping and restaurant district covers nearly 12 square blocks and offers something for everyone. You'll find trendy stores selling the latest in designer fashions, jewelry and artwork, as well as a variety of excellent restaurants. In the evening, the market is a buzz of activity as party-goers hop from nightclub to nightclub. To experience the true roots of ByWard Market, visit during the weekend when local farmers and artisans ply their wares near the Byward Market Building. The market is closed on Christmas and New Year's Day but is otherwise open during the summer and fall.
Langevin Block is a federal building built in 1889, and houses the Prime Minister's Office and Privy Council Office of Canada. This landmark building has been awarded the status of National Historic Site of Canada. The building was constructed in 1884 and features a distinctive Second Empire style. It was completed five years later in 1889 when it became the first government building to be constructed outside of the city's Parliament Hill. This unique building was made from sandstone brought to Ottawa from New Brunswick.
East Block is an elegant federal building located on the Parliament Hill of Ottawa. It is one of the classic examples of Victorian High Gothic style architecture and a popular landmark of the area. It currently houses parliament offices and confederation spaces. Tours of the building are available in July and August.
Originally known as the Norlite Building, National Press Building was constructed in 1919 for accommodating government offices. It was then occupied by the press agencies which started feeling the space crunch and moved to a bigger facility. This beautiful Italian Renaissance style building is now the head office of Canadian Parliamentary Press Gallery. It is still an elegant structure to look at.
Confederation Square is actually a triangle. At the heart of the square is Canada's National War Memorial. Immediately to the east of the square is the National Arts Centre. Further north and to the right is Rideau Street and the Rideau Shopping Centre, while across Wellington Street is the Fairmont Château Laurier and to the west of the memorial is the Sparks Street Mall. Finally, running south is Elgin Street, home to trendy restaurants and night spots.
The Central Chambers is a huge structure that has adapted the Queen Ann Revival style of architecture. This National Historic Site is located close to the National War Memorial and currently is home to business offices.
The main building of the Parliament of Canada complex, the Centre Block houses offices of many government departments and several meeting halls such as the Commons chamber, the Senate chamber and the Hall of Honor. This Gothic Revival style structure was completed in 1927 and designed by Jean Omer Marchand and John A. Pearson. The impressive building has stone exteriors and an old fashioned clock tower. Located by the Ottawa river, the monument makes for a picturesque location.