1. Canadian Museum of History

Welcome to the Canadian Museum of History in Ottawa, a place where you can dive face-first into Canadian culture like a thrill-seeking beaver on a maple syrup high. This museum is the ultimate spot to indulge in all things Canadian, offering a chance to get up close and personal with the country's history in a way that would make even the politest Canadian say, "Eh, that's pretty cool, eh?" Step inside this architectural wonder and embark on a journey that will leave you feeling more knowledgeable than a moose with a Ph.D. From the stunning Grand Hall, where you'll be greeted by totem poles taller than an apology for cutting in line, to the impressive First Peoples Hall, where you can discover the fascinating stories of Canada's Indigenous communities and their impact on this beautiful land. Make sure to explore the Canada Hall, a spectacle that brings history alive like a Mountie riding a polar bear. From canoeing the fur trade routes to witnessing major historical events, this immersive exhibit will have you saying, "Oh boy, I feel like a true Canadian, eh?" So, grab your touque, put on your politest smile, and don't forget to apologize if you accidentally bump into a mannequin dressed as an early settler - after all, it is a museum where history comes alive, but the people, not so much!

www.historymuseum.ca

2. National Arts Centre

Nestled in the heart of Canada's capital city, Ottawa, the National Arts Centre (NAC) stands tall and proud, like that one friend who always insists on wearing a beret. This cultural haven, affectionately known as the "NAhC" by the locals who pretend to be in the know, offers a dazzling array of performances that will make you go, "What in the Eh-lation was that?!" Prepare to have your senses tickled and your heartstrings plucked as you wander through this artsy utopia, where creativity flows like a never-ending stream of maple syrup. So, put on your most sophisticated touque, grab your cultured poutine, and get ready to enter a world where the Arts are taken so seriously, even the statues occasionally burst into a spontaneous performance of interpretive dance.

nac-cna.ca

3. Diefenbunker: Canada's Cold War Museum

Welcome to the Diefenbunker: Canada's Cold War Museum in Ottawa, where you can explore a fascinating place that's part-bunker, part-time capsule, and all-strangely intriguing. Step into the bowels of this colossal subterranean structure that was built to withstand nuclear Armageddon, giving you the perfect excuse to embrace your inner mole person. Marvel at the bunker's mind-boggling artifacts, eerie hallways, and enough concrete to make even the most stubborn doomsday-prepper quiver with envy.

diefenbunker.ca

4. Museum of Nature

Welcome to the Museum of Nature in Ottawa, where nature comes to life in unexpected and amusing ways. As you step inside, prepare to be greeted by a massive blue whale skeleton, hanging from the ceiling like a hangry giant above a seafood buffet. Marvel at the translucent beauty of the famous Crystal Garden, an architectural gem that can make even the most klutzy visitor feel like a bull in a china shop. And if you thought dinosaurs were extinct, think again, for this museum houses an army of prehistoric creatures that could give Jurassic Park a run for its money, making you wonder if you accidentally stumbled upon a secret time-travel hub.

nature.ca

5. ByWard Market

Welcome to ByWard Market, Ottawa's quirky and vibrant hotspot! Step into this bustling district and prepare to be swept off your feet by a delightful combination of bold flavors, captivating sights, and slightly questionable fashion choices. From its eclectic mix of local produce vendors to the intoxicating aroma of poutine that will make your taste buds dance, ByWard Market guarantees a feast for both your stomach and your sense of adventure. So come on over and immerse yourself in an experience that will leave you wondering if you accidentally stumbled into Alice's Wonderland mixed with a touch of Ottawa's coolness.

6. Bank of Canada Museum

Welcome to the Bank of Canada Museum in Ottawa, where you can tantalize your financial taste buds with a delectable blend of money-related history and quirky exhibits. Immerse yourself in the world of currency as you explore interactive displays that make economics, dare I say it, fun. From learning how to spot counterfeit bills to stepping into the shoes of a bank teller, this museum will have you saying, "Move over, Wall Street, I've got this!".

www.bankofcanadamuseum.ca

7. Rideau Hall

Nestled in the heart of Ottawa, Rideau Hall stands tall and majestic like a bossy queen bee in a royal colony. This architectural marvel is the residence of Canada's Governor General, acting as a constant reminder that even fancy bureaucrats need a roof over their heads. Prepare to be dazzled by its lush gardens, historical charm, and a grand entrance that will make you feel like you're about to crash a secret government meeting — in the most polite and apologetic way, of course.

www.gg.ca

8. National Gallery of Canada

Welcome to the National Gallery of Canada, eh! Prepare to be dazzled by an eyeful of art and culture, served with a side of Canadian charm. Get ready to don your smarty pants and immerse yourself in a mesmerizing collection of artwork from all over the Great White North and beyond - you might just leave feeling like a maple syrup connoisseur with a newfound love for moose. So grab your toque and embark on a cultural adventure that will make even the friendliest beaver jealous!

www.gallery.ca

9. Bicycle or walk along the Ottawa River

Take a leisurely bike ride or a scenic stroll along the Ottawa River, where you'll witness a show as entertaining as a squirrel on a tightrope. Marvel at the dynamic cycling culture as cyclists zip by with grace and determination, perfectly balancing their lattes and croissants while avoiding unsuspecting pedestrians. Don't forget to stop at the picturesque spots, where you can enjoy the breathtaking views and attempt a selfie, only to capture an accidental photobomb by an enthusiastic local goose.

10. Canadian War Museum

Welcome to Ottawa's Canadian War Museum, where the past is alive, but don't worry, it won't bite! This unique museum offers a hauntingly captivating journey through Canada's military history, where even history skeptics can't help but get a "blast" from the past. From tanks that look ready to storm your selfies to awe-inspiring stories that will make your hair stand on end, this museum is armed with enough knowledge to keep even the most restless tourists at bay.

www.warmuseum.ca

11. Canadian Museum of Nature

Welcome to the Canadian Museum of Nature in Ottawa, where Canadian history meets Mother Nature's quirky sense of humor. Prepare to be awestruck as you venture through its grand halls, filled with fascinating exhibits that will make you say, "Who knew beavers were so into architecture?" Marvel at the imposing T-Rex skeleton, reminding visitors that even dinosaurs couldn't resist the allure of poutine.

nature.ca

12. Royal Canadian Mint

Welcome to Ottawa, the capital city of Canada, eh! Now, let me tell you about the Royal Canadian Mint. This place is not just a fancy building where they make shiny coins - it's like a Willy Wonka factory for money! Watch in awe as they transform boring metals into beautiful currency, and if you're lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of the coin fairies gracefully sprinkling maple syrup on the loonies and toonies. As you enter the mint, prepare to be dazzled by the sheer amount of bling-bling surrounding you. This is where the magic happens - people turning dull coins into something that can make your wallet feel a little more appreciated. Marvel at the gigantic vats of molten metal, bubbling away like the world's most extravagant fondue party. But don't try dipping your finger in, I promise you, it won't taste as good as it looks. Now, keep your eyes peeled for the mighty coin-pressing machines in action. Witness a majestic symphony of clinking sounds, performing the ancient ritual of minting money. Trust me, it's oddly satisfying to witness the birth of a shiny new quarter. Just try not to get too excited and start throwing your pocket change into the air - nobody likes getting pelted with loonies, eh! So, grab your toque and mittens, and get ready for a truly unique experience at the Royal Canadian Mint!

www.mint.ca

13. Rideau Canal

Welcome to the Rideau Canal in Ottawa, where you can satisfy your wanderlust and your love for slightly offbeat engineering marvels. This charming waterway, affectionately known as the "world's largest ice rink," exhibits an audacious attempt to convince Canadians that frozen water should be enjoyed recreationally. So, grab your skates, tightrope-walk across the precarious ice surface, and brace yourself for epic wipeouts that will guarantee bellyaching laughter and solidifying camaraderie among strangers. As you glide past picturesque scenery and the occasional Canadian goose family feud, remember to take some Insta-worthy shots before you collide with the locals who treat the Canal as their personal speedway.

14. Parliament Hill

Welcome to Parliament Hill in beautiful Ottawa, where "Hill" is a misnomer because it's actually a gigantic mound of limestone that could give Mount Everest a run for its money (not really, but we're dreaming big here). This iconic landmark is home to the Canadian Parliament, where debates get so heated that politicians have been known to cool off by tobogganing down the Peace Tower on the rare occasion that Ottawa has snow (good luck with that). Don't forget to bring a camera, because the view from here is absolutely stunning, showcasing the picturesque cityscape and the majestic Rideau Canal, where ducks attend daily "quack-meetings" to discuss the never-ending debate of why humans haven't invented a bird-sized escalator yet.

www.parl.ca

15. Bytown Museum

Nestled along the sparkling Rideau Canal, Bytown Museum in Ottawa is like a quirky aunt who never fails to impress with tales of yore. Step into this charming red-brick beacon of history and prepare to be whisked away to a time when beaver pelts reigned supreme. Whether you're an eager history buff or just looking for an excuse to wear a tri-corner hat, this museum's got you covered like a warm blanket on a chilly winter’s day.

bytownmuseum.com

16. Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica

Welcome to the Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica, Ottawa's answer to those who wonder where Batman might go for Sunday service. With its majestic Gothic Revival architecture, this place makes you want to yell, "Hunchbacks and gargoyles, assemble!" But fear not, you won't find any Disney characters lurking around, just a stunning interior that will make you want to clasp your hands and exclaim, "Holy ambience, Batman!" Plus, the vibrant stained glass windows will have you wondering if Michelangelo took a handy detour from the Sistine Chapel to sprinkle some divine paintbrush magic here.

www.notredameottawa.com

17. Major's Hill Park

Tucked away amidst the bustling cityscape of Ottawa, Major's Hill Park is a charming oasis where you can escape without having to fight off any crocodiles—unless you count the occasional Canada Goose on a power trip. This beautifully manicured park offers a delightful blend of history and serenity, ideal for taking a leisurely stroll or lying face down to marvel at the mesmerizing ants' highway. With stunning views of the Parliament Buildings and the scenic Rideau Canal, don't be surprised if you find yourself wondering how to smuggle one of those majestic squirrels back home with you.

ccn-ncc.gc.ca

18. Gatineau Park

Welcome to Gatineau Park in Ottawa, where nature and beauty collide with a dash of Canadian charm! Picture yourself frolicking through miles and miles of untouched wilderness, where trees tower like fashion models and squirrels pose for Instagram-worthy photos. Be prepared to walk, hike, and bike your way through enchanted forests that will make you forget about your pesky emails and make you wonder if Snow White might just appear around the corner with a bunch of woodland creatures serenading her.

ncc-ccn.gc.ca

19. Peace Tower

Welcome to the Peace Tower, the grandiose symbol of tranquility in Canada's capital! Rising above the Parliament Hill like a vertigo-inducing exclamation mark, this 92-meter-tall beauty not only holds secrets of political drama but can also be seen from space with a magnifying glass. Its solemn exterior offers a stern warning to those who dare disturb the peace within, while simultaneously inspiring awe in architectural enthusiasts and pigeon enthusiasts alike.

20. Ottawa Locks

Welcome to Ottawa Locks, where you can witness the aquatic acrobatics of boats as they navigate the dramatic changes in water levels. It's like watching a synchronized swimming competition, only with massive floating objects! As water pours into the locks and the boats magically rise, you'll either admire the engineering prowess or start wondering if you accidentally stumbled into a real-life Hogwarts for ships.

www.pc.gc.ca