Located on the scenic Ottawa River in Eastern Ontario, Ottawa proudly holds its place as the capital of Canada. This vibrant city intertwines historic parliamentary venues and trendy neighborhoods with expansive green landscapes. With four distinct seasons, it offers both warm summers, ideal for outdoor festivals, and chilly winters that turn the Rideau Canal into the world's biggest skating rink.

The sophisticated government ambiance of Ottawa tastefully intertwines with a relaxed, outdoor-oriented lifestyle. Here, you'll often hear French and English spoken together, adding a distinct Canadian character to the city that distinguishes it from other North American capitals.

One of the traits that renders Ottawa unique is its access to urban green spaces. The Gatineau Hills, located merely 15 minutes from downtown, offer hiking and skiing opportunities, while the Rideau Canal, meandering through the heart of the city, provides a tranquil urban waterway for year-round activities.

Fervent foodies should savor iconic Canadian dishes such as BeaverTails (a local sweet pastry) in the ByWard Market, or delight in poutine from neighborhood cafes. Thanks to the city's multicultural population, a miscellany of Vietnamese, Lebanese, and fusion restaurants can be found throughout centrally-located districts.

Be sure to witness the changing of the guard ceremony at Parliament Hill during the summer, or indulge in the Northern Lights show, projected onto the Parliament buildings at night. You can find world-class art at the National Gallery of Canada and the Canadian Museum of History offers compelling, interactive exhibits about Canada's past.