Exploring Ottawa Ontario Canada: A Spring Afternoon of Attractions and Local Gems
Spring is a beautiful time to visit Ottawa. The city bursts with colour, energy, and the scent of blooming flowers. I spent an afternoon exploring the ByWard Market District, one of Canada’s oldest and most vibrant neighbourhoods, filled with...
Spring is a beautiful time to visit Ottawa. The city bursts with colour, energy, and the scent of blooming flowers. I spent an afternoon exploring the ByWard Market District, one of Canada’s oldest and most vibrant neighbourhoods, filled with local shops, street performers, cafés, and history on every corner.
This trip also included visiting the Peacekeeping Monument, admiring Louise Bourgeois’ Maman sculpture outside the National Gallery of Canada, and enjoying views of Parliament Hill from Kìwekì Point. I wandered along the Ottawa River Pathway, browsed outdoor markets, and stopped to sample local treats that make every Ottawa visit unforgettable.
From historic sites and public art to bike paths, bakeries, and green spaces, Ottawa offers the perfect mix of culture, flavour, and community. Whether you are walking, cycling, or sitting in a sunny courtyard, the city invites you to slow down, explore, and savour the moment. Each trip feels like uncovering little surprises around every corner, from history and architecture to art and local treats, and there is always more to discover.
#Ottawa #ExploreCanada #SlowTravelCanada #AdventureSeeker #BywardMarket #TravelWithPurpose #ChateauLaurier
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This trip also included visiting the Peacekeeping Monument, admiring Louise Bourgeois’ Maman sculpture outside the National Gallery of Canada, and enjoying views of Parliament Hill from Kìwekì Point. I wandered along the Ottawa River Pathway, browsed outdoor markets, and stopped to sample local treats that make every Ottawa visit unforgettable.
From historic sites and public art to bike paths, bakeries, and green spaces, Ottawa offers the perfect mix of culture, flavour, and community. Whether you are walking, cycling, or sitting in a sunny courtyard, the city invites you to slow down, explore, and savour the moment. Each trip feels like uncovering little surprises around every corner, from history and architecture to art and local treats, and there is always more to discover.
#Ottawa #ExploreCanada #SlowTravelCanada #AdventureSeeker #BywardMarket #TravelWithPurpose #ChateauLaurier
Walkable, lively, and full of character, Ottawa’s ByWard Market District is one of my favourite neighbourhoods to explore. On a past trip, I stopped in at the Pour House, a cozy pub-style restaurant known for its classic Canadian comfort food and...
Walkable, lively, and full of character, Ottawa’s ByWard Market District is one of my favourite neighbourhoods to explore. On a past trip, I stopped in at the Pour House, a cozy pub-style restaurant known for its classic Canadian comfort food and relaxed atmosphere. It’s a great spot to unwind after browsing the market, grab a local craft beer, and enjoy the view of the busy streets below.
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One of Ottawa’s most vibrant outdoor markets, ByWard is filled with local vendors selling everything from fresh produce to handmade crafts. The sounds of buskers, the aroma of roasting coffee, and the friendly small-town feel make it a must-stop...
One of Ottawa’s most vibrant outdoor markets, ByWard is filled with local vendors selling everything from fresh produce to handmade crafts. The sounds of buskers, the aroma of roasting coffee, and the friendly small-town feel make it a must-stop when visiting Ottawa, Ontario.
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I always stop to pick up local maple syrup when I’m in Ottawa—it’s a sweet treat that reminds me I’m in eastern Canada. Out west, we don’t have maple syrup trees, so taking a bottle home feels like bringing a little piece of the region’s heritage...
I always stop to pick up local maple syrup when I’m in Ottawa—it’s a sweet treat that reminds me I’m in eastern Canada. Out west, we don’t have maple syrup trees, so taking a bottle home feels like bringing a little piece of the region’s heritage with me.
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These famous cookies earned their name after President Barack Obama stopped here during his 2009 visit to Ottawa. Ever since, visitors line up in ByWard Market to try these chewy maple shortbread “Obama cookies.” A fun local story—and a delicious...
These famous cookies earned their name after President Barack Obama stopped here during his 2009 visit to Ottawa. Ever since, visitors line up in ByWard Market to try these chewy maple shortbread “Obama cookies.” A fun local story—and a delicious piece of Ottawa’s history.
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No trip to Ottawa is complete without a stop at Le Moulin de Provence. I always stop here when I’m in town, either to pick up a little treat or to enjoy a bite to eat. The buttery croissants, fresh baguettes, and flaky pastries are irresistible.
3 June 2025
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1 week ago
taken in
Ottawa, Eastern Ontario, Ontario, Canada
This trip, I couldn’t resist a beautiful fruit tart from Le Moulin de Provence. Fresh berries and cream nestled in a delicate crust. It was almost too pretty to eat! Sampling treats like this is one of my favourite ways to experience the local...
This trip, I couldn’t resist a beautiful fruit tart from Le Moulin de Provence. Fresh berries and cream nestled in a delicate crust. It was almost too pretty to eat! Sampling treats like this is one of my favourite ways to experience the local flavour of Ottawa’s bakeries.
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I spotted a bike leaning against a post and immediately imagined myself riding it through Ottawa’s streets. Cruising past bakeries, flower shops, and market stalls, stopping wherever I felt like it. Biking is a simple pleasure that captures the...
I spotted a bike leaning against a post and immediately imagined myself riding it through Ottawa’s streets. Cruising past bakeries, flower shops, and market stalls, stopping wherever I felt like it. Biking is a simple pleasure that captures the city’s relaxed, walkable charm.
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Even the side streets and alleys in ByWard Market are full of surprises. Small shops, tucked-away patios, and little pieces of local art make wandering here feel like a treasure hunt. I love discovering something new even in a place I’ve visited...
Even the side streets and alleys in ByWard Market are full of surprises. Small shops, tucked-away patios, and little pieces of local art make wandering here feel like a treasure hunt. I love discovering something new even in a place I’ve visited before.
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In Ottawa, there’s a refreshing sense of balance. As a government city, it has a slower rhythm. People make time to sit outdoors, connect, and savour the moment. It’s a good reminder to slow down, breathe, and enjoy the view.
3 June 2025
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1 week ago
taken in
Ottawa, Eastern Ontario, Ontario, Canada
Also known as the Peacekeeping Monument, Reconciliation honours Canadians who have served as peacekeepers around the world. Surrounded by Ottawa’s landmarks, it is a powerful place to pause and reflect, and it stands as a symbol of Canada’s...
Also known as the Peacekeeping Monument, Reconciliation honours Canadians who have served as peacekeepers around the world. Surrounded by Ottawa’s landmarks, it is a powerful place to pause and reflect, and it stands as a symbol of Canada’s enduring commitment to peace.
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Standing outside the National Gallery of Canada, Maman by Louise Bourgeois loomed over me. The bronze spider carries a sac of marble eggs, a strange mix of protection and wonder. It was both unsettling and beautiful, and it made me pause to take...
Standing outside the National Gallery of Canada, Maman by Louise Bourgeois loomed over me. The bronze spider carries a sac of marble eggs, a strange mix of protection and wonder. It was both unsettling and beautiful, and it made me pause to take it all in.
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Ottawa is wonderfully pedestrian-friendly. Wide sidewalks, river pathways, and urban greenspaces make walking a joy. The National Capital Greenbelt surrounds the city with protected forests and trails—proof that nature is never far away, even...
Ottawa is wonderfully pedestrian-friendly. Wide sidewalks, river pathways, and urban greenspaces make walking a joy. The National Capital Greenbelt surrounds the city with protected forests and trails—proof that nature is never far away, even downtown.
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With more than 800 kilometres of cycling paths, Ottawa is one of Canada’s most bikeable cities. The Capital Pathway Network connects scenic routes along the Rideau Canal and Ottawa River. Ottawa is perfect for exploring on two wheels, from casual...
With more than 800 kilometres of cycling paths, Ottawa is one of Canada’s most bikeable cities. The Capital Pathway Network connects scenic routes along the Rideau Canal and Ottawa River. Ottawa is perfect for exploring on two wheels, from casual riders to avid cyclists.
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This incredible new lookout offers panoramic views of Parliament Hill and the Ottawa River. Named Kìwekì, Algonquin for “returning to one’s homeland,” it’s a breathtaking place to reflect on Canada’s natural beauty and Indigenous heritage.
3 June 2025
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1 week ago
taken in
Ottawa, Eastern Ontario, Ontario, Canada
This castle-like Fairmont hotel is one of Ottawa’s most iconic landmarks. Opened in 1912, the Château Laurier overlooks the Rideau Canal and Parliament Hill. Walking past its historic walls and looking out over the Rideau Canal, I felt the weight...
This castle-like Fairmont hotel is one of Ottawa’s most iconic landmarks. Opened in 1912, the Château Laurier overlooks the Rideau Canal and Parliament Hill. Walking past its historic walls and looking out over the Rideau Canal, I felt the weight of history and the charm of Ottawa wrapped into one iconic building.
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The Rideau Canal never fails to impress. Whether it’s summer paddling or winter skating, this UNESCO World Heritage Site connects nature, history, and everyday life in one scenic stretch. Strolling along the water, I could see why it’s the heart...
The Rideau Canal never fails to impress. Whether it’s summer paddling or winter skating, this UNESCO World Heritage Site connects nature, history, and everyday life in one scenic stretch. Strolling along the water, I could see why it’s the heart of the city.
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I have stayed at the Fairmont Château Laurier in the past, and the elegance of the architecture and the warmth of the space made it feel timeless. Even walking through the lobby again, I could imagine the stories the walls would tell if they...
I have stayed at the Fairmont Château Laurier in the past, and the elegance of the architecture and the warmth of the space made it feel timeless. Even walking through the lobby again, I could imagine the stories the walls would tell if they could speak.
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Spring in Ottawa is unforgettable. Everywhere I walked, the fragrance of blooming flowers filled the air. Between tulips, blossoms, and park gardens, the city felt alive, colourful, and welcoming in a way I had never experienced before.
3 June 2025
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1 week ago
taken in
Ottawa, Eastern Ontario, Ontario, Canada
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Comments (4)
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Great collection Janet! Lots of great gems and cute places to add to my bucket list, next time I'm in Ottawa! -
Anja Cahill Thank you
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I live in Ottawa, and yet I never go to the Market. Funny, how that happens. Thank you for reminding me about the gems right here in our City. -
Brava Braun It is easy to take things for granted when they are right there everyday. I bet the same thing would happen to me if you came out thisBrava Braun It is easy to take things for granted when they are right there everyday. I bet the same thing would happen to me if you came out this way. More ...
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