The capital of Canada, Ottawa offers a host of events and activities to experience. It sits in the intersection of three rivers, the Rideau, the Gatineau, and the Ottawa. The climate has four seasons. January comes as the coldest with November and December the rainiest, and July the warmest. Known for its many winter activities, its Winterlude in February celebrates the seasons with huge snow slides. For the artistic sense the ice carving competition creates a crystal wonder land of such pristine elegance that it takes your breath away.
Getting Around
The land of ice and snow with the right equipment and vehicles can be navigated. Cross country skiing encircles the city with its many trails. Just outside the city Camp Fortune and Mount Pakeham allows downhill skiing and snowboarding. Of course snowshoes are available for strapping on and trapping around any part of the city. For the especially adventuresome, dog sledding lets one travel where vehicles cannot.
Parliament Hill
Out of the whiteness rises a castle of considerable size at the center of downtown. It has become known as Parliament Hill. Here the politics and culture ooze out daily. Its Gothic style dominates the skyline on a rising hill. Free tours let you witness legislation in the making or you can enjoy the many architectural features such as gargoyles, reliefs, and stone work. A Peace Tower has a Carillion ring out on the quarter of an hour and free daily concerts interspersed. On Canada Day thousands gather to watch fireworks blaze across the grand building.
Shopping
Byward Market has 100 restaurants to choose from. The Black Thorn established in 1860s when horse drawn carriages served as transportation now serves a variety of foods. Fifteen kinds of beers can quench your thirst while chefs whip up gourmet delights. If seafood suits your taste of the day try Coasters with its fish and chips and progressive wines. Boutiques and specialty stores are part of the flavor as well. Cricket & Company takes care of your pet’s needs. Canadian Rug Traders can improve your home decor with its exotic tapestries.
Nightlife
The fun does not stop when the sun goes down. For some parts of Ottawa it begins. Casino du Lac Leamy lets you play with Lady Luck till the wee hours of the morn. The National Arts Centre lets you enjoy high level entertainment from an array of professional artists and venues. Canadian Tire Centre hosts sports and the national favorite of hockey.
Museums
The Canadian Museum of History takes you through civilization and culture in the area including the First Nation (Native Americans). It has a children’s museum as well as international exhibits. The Canadian War Museum relates the stories of the brave souls who lived it and some who died for it. It leads viewers through the path of conflict and shows how it all became solved. The Canadian Museum of Nature shows what a marvelous and somewhat mysterious planet we live on with exhibits and tours.
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