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Meet people in Ottawa
Discover travelers heading to Ottawa and people who share your interests—before you arrive or while you’re there.
Create your free profile See how it works ↓ Explore profiles, shared interests and travel plans.
How ChatVoyager works in Ottawa
- Create profile
Introduce yourself
Add your interests and languages so others can get to know you.
- Choose a city or plan a trip
Explore Ottawa
Browse profiles with Exploration Mode, or discover travelers’ plans before you arrive.
- Connect
Start a conversation
Send a Wave to show interest, or introduce yourself with a direct message and suggest something to do together.
Find your shared interests in Ottawa
Create your free profileBefore you join
Can I connect before arriving in Ottawa?
Yes. After creating your account and confirming your email, use Exploration Mode to browse profiles in the city, or explore shared travel plans.
Do I need to create a trip?
No. Exploration Mode lets you change your profile-search location without publishing a trip. Create a trip when you want to share your own plans.
How do I start a conversation?
Send a Wave to show interest, or introduce yourself with a direct message. A shared interest or travel plan is a good starting point.
About Ottawa
Ottawa, the capital of Canada, is situated at the confluence of the Ottawa, Gatineau, and Rideau rivers. This bilingual city is defined by its grand Victorian architecture, expansive green spaces, and the historic Rideau Canal, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Visitors can explore national institutions, vibrant public markets, and diverse neighborhoods that reflect the city's political and cultural significance. Whether wandering through the parliamentary precinct or enjoying the scenic riverfront pathways, Ottawa offers a unique blend of formal heritage and accessible outdoor recreation.
Places to visit in Ottawa
Parliament Hill
Why visit: It is the most recognizable site in the city with significant historical and architectural importance.
About this place
The political heart of Canada, featuring iconic Gothic Revival architecture overlooking the Ottawa River.
Check the official website for information on guided tours of the Centre Block.
ByWard Market
Why visit: It offers a dense concentration of local food, crafts, and social spaces.
About this place
One of Canada's oldest and largest public markets, filled with artisanal shops, restaurants, and outdoor stalls.
Visit early in the morning to see the fresh produce vendors setting up.
Rideau Canal
Why visit: It provides a unique perspective of the city's landscape and urban design.
About this place
A historic waterway stretching through the city, used for boating in summer and ice skating in winter.
Walk along the canal pathways for scenic views of the downtown core.
Gatineau Park
Why visit: It is the primary destination for outdoor activities and nature appreciation near the capital.
About this place
A vast conservation park located just across the river, featuring forests, lakes, and hiking trails.
Check the park maps online to plan your route before heading out.
Museums, galleries & culture
National Gallery of Canada
Why visit: It showcases the country's artistic heritage within a striking glass and granite building.
About this place
A premier art institution housing an extensive collection of Canadian, Indigenous, and international art.
Look for the giant spider sculpture, Maman, located in the plaza outside.
Canadian Museum of History
Why visit: The Grand Hall features an impressive collection of totem poles and Indigenous architecture.
About this place
Located across the river in Gatineau, this museum focuses on the human history of Canada.
The museum offers excellent views of the Ottawa skyline across the river.
Explore the city
Parliamentary Precinct Walk
Start at the Centennial Flame and walk west toward the Supreme Court of Canada. This route takes you past the Parliament buildings, offering views of the Ottawa River and the library architecture. Continue along the cliffside paths for a panoramic look at the city's historic core.
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Join freeMeeting people and exploring Ottawa: questions and answers
Is Ottawa a bilingual city?
Yes, Ottawa is officially bilingual, with both English and French widely used in public services, signage, and government institutions.
Official information ↗What is the best way to travel between Ottawa and Gatineau?
The two cities are connected by several bridges. You can travel between them by car, public transit (OC Transpo and STO), or by walking and cycling across the Alexandra Bridge.