
The Ottawa region’s identity has been influenced by many cultures, including First Nations, French, English, Scottish and Irish. The city of Ottawa is located within the traditional Anishinàbeg Algonquin territory. Since several rivers meet here, the area was an active transportation corridor for an astounding diversity of Indigenous groups and travellers. In fact, the city’s name is derived from the Algonquin word “Odawa,” meaning “to trade.” Ottawa is the perfect place to soak up national and regional cultures. Parliament Hill, the seat of Canada’s federal government, welcomes visitors on free tours of its historic buildings. Seven of Canada’s nine national museums immerse you in Canadian history, art, war, aviation, science and more. The National Arts Centre represents the entire country through orchestra, dance, variety, and multilingual theatre programming. Cycling enthusiasts of every level can explore over 800 km of urban and rural pathways, plus mountain biking trails in the nearby hills, including Gatineau Park. The Greenbelt surrounding the city’s core features hundreds of kilometres of eco-friendly, multi-use trails for walking and hiking through diverse landscapes, such as forests, sand dunes and wetlands.