The Nations Capital Region is a special place to visit any time of the year.
There is always something different to do every weekend.
But the last weekend of the summer was an exceptional time to visit Ottawa and the surrounding area.
Ottawa is the capital of Canada, but it never seems crowded compared to Toronto.
Whether you’re doing anything in the city, or venturing on the city limit’s, Ottawa is the place to stay. For our choice, specifically around the Byward Market.
It’s close to Parliament Hill and there are many sights to see in the area – even if you seen them before.
Visiting Ottawa many times over the years, the best place we’ve found to stay is the Andaz Hotel operated by Hyatt.
It opened in 2016 and the prices were very reasonable. The staff were very accommodating and rooms were very clean.
The 16-storey view with outside lounge at the top gives a pristine view of the city and Gatineau.
It is one of the best places to sit back and relax after a long day.
A nice walking area takes you through the Byward Market, a quick visit in the Chateau Laurier, stop for a few photos overlooking the locks of the Rideau Canal, the Ottawa River, Alexandra Bridge and Gatineau.
Then it’s off to an outside tour of the Parliament Buildings.
During our visit, the Parliament Building (Centre Block) was undergoing a multi-year rehabilitation project with most of the back of the building covered in scaffolding.
On the left side of the Parliament building is the Canadian Police and Peace Officers’ Memorial with the names of peace and police officers that have died in the line of duty.
Among those names – Cobourg Police Constable Chris Garrett who was murdered in the line of duty on May 15, 2004. Through his actions Garrett saved many lives.
At the front of the Parliament building, construction work is taking place on a new visitor centre with excavation taking place 23-metres deep.
The Gatineau Hot Air Balloon Festival happens each year and is definitely worth visiting.
Hot air balloons gently take off (weather permitting) at 6:30 a.m. and 6:30 p.m. from La Baie Park in Gatineau. Watching them from the park or across the Ottawa River at Rockcliffe Lookout in Ottawa is a peaceful way to either start the day or enjoy the evening.
If you aren’t interested in the balloons, there are still many things to do with rides and first class entertainment.
Artists like Dallas Smith, Charlotte Cardin, Dave Fenley appeared on stage and entertained thousands of people who attended from August 29 to September 2.
Omega Park in Montebello is approximately an hour from Ottawa in Quebec and is the perfect spot for younger families.
With a 12 kilometre safari route, families can discover Canada’s wild animals including elk, bison, wolves, bears, foxes in their natural environment. Feed deer from your car as they pay a visit along many parts of the Park.
Omega Park is open all year long and has many activities; animal presentations, walking trails, picnic areas, restaurants, farm animals and much more.
It was an amazing three day getaway and one that hopes to be repeated next year.
Author: Pete Fisher
Has been a photojournalist for over 30-years and have been honoured to win numerous awards for photography and writing over the years. Best selling author for the book Highway of Heroes - True Patriot Love
