Ottawa, the capital city of Canada, is a vibrant and cosmopolitan city with a rich history and culture. While many visitors flock to the city’s iconic landmarks like Parliament Hill and the Canadian Museum of History, there are also plenty of hidden gems waiting to be discovered. If you’re looking for a truly unique and memorable experience, be sure to check out these seven secret places in Ottawa in July 2024.
From a hidden waterfall to a secret garden, these spots offer something for everyone. So whether you’re looking for a place to relax and escape the hustle and bustle of the city, or you’re looking for an adventure, you’re sure to find something to love on this list. Get ready to explore Ottawa like never before!
1. The Secret Garden at the National Arts Centre
Tucked away behind the National Arts Centre, this hidden garden is a tranquil oasis in the heart of the city. With lush greenery, colorful flowers, and a cascading waterfall, it’s the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of downtown Ottawa. Take a leisurely stroll through the garden, or enjoy a picnic lunch on one of the benches. And be sure to keep an eye out for the resident bunnies!
The Secret Garden is open to the public from May to October, and admission is free. It’s located at 1 Elgin Street, Ottawa.
2. The Billings Estate Museum
This historic estate is located just a short drive from downtown Ottawa, and it offers a glimpse into the city’s past. The Billings Estate was built in the early 1900s by Braddish Billings, a wealthy lumber baron. The estate includes a beautiful manor house, a carriage house, and a stable. It’s now a museum, and visitors can tour the house and grounds and learn about the history of the Billings family.
The Billings Estate Museum is open to the public from Tuesday to Sunday, and admission is $10 for adults. It’s located at 2100 Cabot Street, Ottawa.
3. The Diefenbunker: Canada’s Cold War Museum
This underground bunker was built in the 1950s as a secret fallback location for the Canadian government in the event of a nuclear attack. It’s now a museum, and visitors can explore the bunker’s various rooms and exhibits. Learn about the history of the Cold War, and see how the bunker would have been used in the event of an attack.
The Diefenbunker is open to the public from Tuesday to Sunday, and admission is $15 for adults. It’s located at 3929 Carp Road, Carp.
4. The Canadian Aviation and Space Museum
This museum is home to a vast collection of aircraft and spacecraft. From vintage airplanes to modern fighter jets, there’s something for every aviation enthusiast. You can also learn about the history of Canadian aviation, and see how Canada has played a role in space exploration.
The Canadian Aviation and Space Museum is open to the public from Tuesday to Sunday, and admission is $15 for adults. It’s located at 11 Aviation Parkway, Ottawa.
5. The Royal Canadian Mint
This is where Canada’s coins are made. Visitors can tour the mint and see how coins are produced. You can also learn about the history of money in Canada, and see a collection of rare and valuable coins.
The Royal Canadian Mint is open to the public from Monday to Friday, and admission is free. It’s located at 320 Sussex Drive, Ottawa.
6. The Rideau Canal
This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a beautiful canal that runs through the heart of Ottawa. In the summer, it’s a great place to go for a walk, a bike ride, or a boat ride. You can also relax on one of the many benches along the canal and enjoy the scenery.
The Rideau Canal is open to the public 24 hours a day, and admission is free. It’s located in downtown Ottawa.
7. The ByWard Market
This is a lively public market in downtown Ottawa. It’s a great place to find fresh produce, meats, cheeses, and baked goods. You can also find a variety of souvenirs and crafts. The ByWard Market is also home to a number of restaurants and cafes, so you can grab a bite to eat while you’re shopping.
The ByWard Market is open to the public every day of the week, and admission is free. It’s located in downtown Ottawa.
Conclusion
These are just a few of the many secret places that you can visit in Ottawa in July 2024. With its rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning natural beauty, Ottawa is a city that has something to offer everyone. So whether you’re looking for a relaxing getaway or an adventurous escape, be sure to add Ottawa to your travel list.
Ottawa is a city with a rich culture and heritage. It’s home to a number of museums, art galleries, and theaters. The city also has a vibrant music scene, with a variety of live music venues. Ottawa is a great place to experience Canadian culture, and there’s always something going on.
The best months to visit Ottawa are May to October. The weather is mild during these months, and there are a variety of outdoor activities to enjoy. However, Ottawa is also a beautiful city in the winter, and there are a number of winter festivals and activities to enjoy.
Ottawa is well-connected by public transportation. The city has a bus and train system, and there are also a number of taxi and ride-sharing services available. Ottawa is also a great city to explore on foot or by bike.
Ottawa has a variety of local food options to choose from. The city is home to a number of award-winning restaurants, as well as a number of casual eateries and cafes. Be sure to try some of Ottawa’s famous poutine, a dish made with fries, gravy, and cheese curds.
Ottawa has a variety of hotels to choose from, ranging from budget-friendly options to luxury hotels. The city also has a number of bed and breakfasts and vacation rentals available. Be sure to book your accommodation in advance, especially if you’re visiting during the peak tourist season.
