10 Things to Do in the National Gallery of Canada, Ottawa Canada



The National Gallery of Canada in Ottawa is a must-see destination for art lovers and history buffs alike. Located in the heart of downtown Ottawa, the gallery is home to more than 40,000 works of art from around the world, with collections ranging from Canadian and European art to contemporary art and photography. Whether you’re a long-time art enthusiast or just looking for something to do in Ottawa, here are 10 things to do at the National Gallery of Canada.

1. Take a Tour: The National Gallery of Canada offers a variety of guided tours that provide visitors with an in-depth look at the gallery’s collections. Tours are available for both adults and children, and range from general overviews to more specialized topics like Canadian art, European art and photography.

2. Explore the Permanent Collection: The National Gallery of Canada’s permanent collection is one of the largest and most comprehensive in the country. It includes works by renowned Canadian and European artists, as well as a selection of contemporary art and photography.

3. Attend a Lecture or Workshop: The gallery regularly hosts lectures and workshops on a variety of topics, such as Canadian art, European art, photography and more. These events provide an opportunity to learn more about the gallery’s collections and the history of art.

4. Visit the Gift Shop: The National Gallery of Canada’s gift shop is a great place to find unique souvenirs and gifts. The shop offers a wide selection of books, prints, jewelry, apparel, and other items related to the gallery’s collections.

5. Check Out the Exhibitions: The National Gallery of Canada regularly hosts temporary exhibitions featuring works from its permanent collection, as well as works from other galleries and museums. These exhibitions provide an opportunity to see works of art that may not be on display at the gallery’s permanent collection.

6. Take a Break in the Café: The National Gallery of Canada’s café is a great place to take a break from exploring the gallery. The café offers a variety of hot and cold drinks, as well as light meals and snacks.

7. Participate in a Family Activity: The National Gallery of Canada offers a variety of family-friendly activities, such as art-making workshops, scavenger hunts, and more. These activities provide a fun and educational way for families to explore the gallery’s collections.

8. Explore the Sculpture Garden: The National Gallery of Canada’s sculpture garden is home to a variety of sculptures by Canadian and international artists. The garden provides a peaceful and tranquil setting to explore the sculptures and enjoy the outdoors.

9. Attend a Performance: The National Gallery of Canada regularly hosts performances by musicians, dancers, and other performers. These performances provide an opportunity to experience art in a unique and interactive way.

10. Take a Self-Guided Tour: The National Gallery of Canada offers a variety of self-guided tours that provide visitors with an opportunity to explore the gallery’s collections at their own pace. The tours provide detailed information about the works of art and the history behind them.

No matter what your interests are, the National Gallery of Canada in Ottawa has something for everyone. From lectures and workshops to family activities and performances, the gallery provides an opportunity to explore art and culture in a unique and interactive way. So, if you’re looking for something to do in Ottawa, make sure to check out the National Gallery of Canada.