Ottawa, the capital of Canada, is home to the Rideau Canal, one of the city’s most popular attractions. This historic waterway was built in the early 19th century to connect Ottawa with the city of Kingston, and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The canal is a great place to explore and experience the beauty of nature and the history of the area. Here are 10 things to do in Rideau Canal Ottawa Canada.
1. Boat Ride: Taking a boat ride along the Rideau Canal is one of the best ways to appreciate the scenery and experience the history of the area. There are several boat tours available, from a leisurely cruise to a more adventurous ride.
2. Skate the Rideau: In the winter months, the Rideau Canal freezes over and becomes the world’s largest skating rink. Take a leisurely skate along the canal, or join in on one of the many organized events, such as the Ottawa Ice Dragon Boat Race or the Rideau Canal Skate-a-thon.
3. Explore the Parks: The Rideau Canal is surrounded by several parks, which are great for exploring and enjoying the outdoors. These include Rideau Hall, Dow’s Lake, and the National Capital Commission’s Greenbelt.
4. Visit the Locks: A highlight of the Rideau Canal is the series of locks that allow boats to travel between the Ottawa River and Lake Ontario. The locks are an engineering marvel, and a great place to learn about the history of the canal.
5. Take a Hike: There are several hiking trails along the Rideau Canal, ranging from easy to more challenging. These trails are a great way to explore the area and take in the scenery.
6. Visit the Museums: There are several museums located along the Rideau Canal, including the Ottawa Museum of History, the Bytown Museum, and the Canadian War Museum. These are great places to learn about the history of the area and explore the artifacts and exhibits.
7. Go Fishing: The Rideau Canal is a great place to go fishing, with a variety of species to be caught, including bass, pike, and walleye. A fishing license is required, and can be obtained from the Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources.
8. Take a Cruise: The Rideau Canal is a great place to take a cruise. There are several tour companies that offer cruises, ranging from leisurely sightseeing trips to more adventurous cruises.
9. Visit the Shops and Restaurants: Along the Rideau Canal there are several shops and restaurants, offering a variety of food and souvenirs. These are great places to pick up a souvenir or grab a bite to eat.
10. Attend a Festival: Throughout the year, there are several festivals and events held along the Rideau Canal, including the Ottawa International Busker Festival, the Ottawa International Animation Festival, and the Ottawa International Writers Festival. These are great opportunities to experience the culture and atmosphere of the city.
Whether you’re looking for a leisurely boat ride, a thrilling skate, or an opportunity to explore the area’s history and culture, the Rideau Canal is a great place to visit. With so much to see and do, there’s something for everyone.