The capital of Canada is Ottawa, Ontario. Ottawa became the capital of Canada primarily due to its strategic location and political compromise. Originally, the capital of Canada was located in Kingston, Ontario, but it was moved to Ottawa in 1857. Queen Victoria chose Ottawa as Canada’s capital in 1857 as it was a defensible location situated on the border between Quebec and Ontario – the two provinces making up the country at the time.
The name Ottawa is derived from the Algonquin word “adawe”, which means “to trade”. The settlement was originally incorporated as Bytown in 1850. The name was changed to Ottawa in 1855.
More than 7.3 million tourists visit the city yearly for its tourist attractions and festivals.
It’s one of the world’s cleanest cities and it is known for being the most well-educated city in the country with more than half of the adult population holding a post-secondary degree.
The city is also known as “Silicon Valley North” thanks to its importance as a worldwide technology center.
Ottawa was chosen as Canada’s capital through a combination of political compromise and strategic considerations. The decision was made during the mid-19th century as part of the process of establishing the Dominion of Canada. These are the key figures and events involved:
Queen Victoria: As Canada was still a British colony at the time, the ultimate decision to choose Ottawa as the capital of the Province of Canada was made by Queen Victoria. In 1857, she selected Ottawa as the capital, following recommendations from British officials and Canadian politicians.
Political Leaders: The choice of Ottawa as the capital was the result of a political compromise between English-speaking and French-speaking politicians in the Province of Canada. Ottawa’s central location between English-speaking Ontario and French-speaking Quebec made it a suitable compromise location that could represent both linguistic groups.
Queen Victoria’s Proclamation: The decision to make Ottawa the capital was formalized with the passage of the British North America Act in 1867, which established the Dominion of Canada. Queen Victoria issued a royal proclamation designating Ottawa as the capital of the new Dominion.
Where is Ottawa?
Ottawa is located in eastern Ontario, near the border with Quebec, providing a unique blend of English and French cultures. The Ottawa River, which flows through the heart of the city, serves as a focal point for recreational activities and scenic views. Ottawa’s landscape is relatively flat compared to other Canadian cities, offering an ideal terrain for urban development and outdoor pursuits. Surrounding the city are numerous parks and green spaces, including Gatineau Park,
which spans over 360 square kilometers and offers hiking, skiing, and wildlife viewing opportunities. Additionally, the Rideau Canal, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, winds its way through the city, providing both transportation and leisure activities such as boating in the summer and ice skating in the winter. Ottawa’s geography combines natural beauty with urban infrastructure, making it a picturesque and livable city.
Who Makes Up the Population of Ottawa?
Ottawa has a diverse and growing population. The city is the fourth-largest in Canada by population, with over 1 million residents in the metropolitan area. Ottawa is known for its multiculturalism, with a significant portion of its population being immigrants or descendants of immigrants from various parts of the world.
English and French are the official languages, reflecting Canada’s bilingual heritage, although many other languages are spoken due to the city’s diverse population. Ottawa’s population is relatively young and well-educated, with several universities and colleges in the area contributing to a vibrant academic and research community. The city’s population continues to grow steadily, driven by factors such as immigration, job opportunities, and a high quality of life.
What is the Climate in the Capital of Canada?
Ottawa experiences a humid continental climate with four distinct seasons. Summers are warm and humid, with average high temperatures ranging from 25 to 30 degrees Celsius (77 to 86 degrees Fahrenheit). Winters are cold and snowy, with average temperatures typically below freezing, ranging from -15 to -5 degrees Celsius (5 to 23 degrees Fahrenheit). Ottawa receives significant snowfall during the winter months, with snow covering the ground from late November to early April.
Spring and autumn are transitional seasons, characterized by mild temperatures and colorful foliage. However, weather patterns can vary widely, with occasional heatwaves in the summer and cold snaps in the winter. Ottawa is prone to temperature extremes, with occasional periods of both extreme cold in the winter and heat in the summer.
The Best Time to Visit Ottawa
Like much of Southeastern Ontario, Ottawa experiences four distinct seasons. Summers are generally hot and humid, with temperatures reaching into the mid-30s. Winters are cold and harsh, with ice and snow featuring predominantly. Average January temperatures dip to -14°C and Ottawa will see an average of 88 inches of snow during the season.
For moderate temperatures, spring and fall are the best seasons to visit. However, temperatures are known to vary wildly during shoulder season months. Plan your visit to Ottawa around what you would like to do and which festivals you are thinking of attending.
What is the Capital of Canada Known For?
Ottawa is famous for several reasons, including:
Parliament Hill: One of Canada’s most iconic landmarks, Parliament Hill is the political and cultural heart of Ottawa. It’s home to the Parliament of Canada and features stunning Gothic Revival architecture, as well as attractions like the Peace Tower and Centennial Flame.
Rideau Canal: Designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Rideau Canal is a historic waterway that winds its way through downtown Ottawa. In the winter, it transforms into the world’s largest skating rink, while in the summer, it offers opportunities for boating and leisurely walks along its scenic pathways.
Cultural Institutions: Ottawa is home to world-class cultural institutions, including the National Gallery of Canada, the Canadian Museum of History, the Canadian Museum of Nature, and the Canadian War Museum. These institutions showcase Canada’s rich history, art, and natural heritage.
Tulip Festival: Ottawa hosts the Canadian Tulip Festival every spring, which celebrates the city’s close ties with the Netherlands. Millions of tulips bloom across the city, creating a stunning display of color and attracting visitors from around the world.
Multiculturalism: Ottawa is known for its multiculturalism and diverse population. The city hosts numerous cultural festivals throughout the year, celebrating the traditions, music, and cuisine of its various ethnic communities.
Natural Beauty: Ottawa’s picturesque setting along the Ottawa River, surrounded by parks and green spaces, makes it a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Gatineau Park, just a short drive from downtown, offers hiking, skiing, and other outdoor activities year-round.
Festivals and Events: Ottawa hosts a variety of festivals and events, including Winterlude, Canada Day celebrations, Bluesfest, and the Ottawa International Animation Festival, attracting visitors and artists from around the world.
ByWard Market: Dating back to 1826, this historic market offers diverse cuisines ranging from gourmet delicacies to local street food. The market is not just a shopping destination but a cultural experience, hosting street performers, live music, and art galleries.
Which Government Buildings Are in the Capital of Canada?
Parliament Hill: Parliament Hill is the focal point of Canada’s federal government and is home to the Parliament of Canada. The complex includes the Centre Block, which houses the Senate and the House of Commons, as well as the iconic Peace Tower.
Supreme Court of Canada: The Supreme Court of Canada is the highest court in the Canadian judicial system. Its building, located near Parliament Hill, features modern architecture and houses, the courtrooms, and administrative offices.
Department of National Defense Headquarters: The Department of National Defense (DND) headquarters is located in downtown Ottawa and is responsible for Canada’s military and national defense. The complex includes offices, meeting rooms, and other facilities for DND personnel.
Confederation Building: The Confederation Building is one of Ottawa’s largest office buildings and houses various federal government departments and agencies, including offices for Members of Parliament and Senators.
Bank of Canada: The Bank of Canada is Canada’s central bank and is responsible for monetary policy, issuing currency, and promoting the stability of the country’s financial system. Its headquarters are located in downtown Ottawa.
Government Conference Center: Originally built as Ottawa’s central train station, the Government Conference Center now serves as a venue for government events, conferences, and official functions.
Sir John A. Macdonald Building: Named after Canada’s first Prime Minister, the Sir John A. Macdonald Building is a historic government building located near Parliament Hill. It houses offices for Members of Parliament and other government functions.
Do You Need a Passport to Visit the Capital of Canada?
If you’re a Canadian citizen or a permanent resident of Canada, you generally do not need a passport to travel to Ottawa, as it is within Canada. However, if you’re traveling to Ottawa from another country, you would need to follow the entry requirements for Canada, which typically include presenting a valid passport and, depending on your country of citizenship, possibly a visa or an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) if arriving by air. U.S. Citizens and Lawful Permanent Residents of the United States are exempt from the eTA requirement.
It’s always a good idea to check the latest travel requirements with the Canadian government or your country’s embassy or consulate before planning your trip.
Do You Need a Visa to Visit the Capital of Canada?
If you are a citizen of a country that is visa-exempt for Canada, you do not need a visa to visit Ottawa or any other part of Canada for tourism, business, or transit purposes for stays of up to six months. However, you may need to obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) if you are arriving in Canada by air, even if you are visa-exempt.
If you are a citizen of a country that requires a visa to enter Canada, you will need to apply for a visitor visa before your trip. Visitor visas are typically issued for tourism, visiting family or friends, or conducting business. It’s important to check the Canadian government’s official website or consult with the nearest Canadian embassy or consulate for the most up-to-date information on visa requirements based on your citizenship and the purpose of your visit.
How to Get Around the Capital of Canada
With over 300 km of bike and walking paths, tourists can easily get around the capital city without a car from April through November. Rent a bike from a bike-sharing docking station or explore downtown on foot.
Ottawa also has a central public transit system called OC Transpo, which uses both buses and light rail transit. The buses have a dedicated set of roadways, which bypass any traffic on the main arteries.
Ottawa’s main station hosts Via Rail, giving easy access to other Canadian cities by train.
Is Ottawa Worth a Visit?
Yes, Ottawa is worth a visit! If you have limited time, 3 days will give you a good overview of the city center. If you really want to experience all that the city has to offer and take a day trip to nearby Montreal, I recommend staying for 7 days or more.
Ottawa consistently ranks as one of the best places to live in the world, with high scores for quality of life, safety, and cleanliness. Its strong economy, low unemployment rate, and diverse cultural scene make it an attractive destination for people from all walks of life.
So cool, I would love to visit Ottawa this year and see how things in there. Experience an adventure there. Lovely post!
Thank you. Glad you enjoyed it!