Capital City: Ottawa

Thanksgiving long weekend was on the way, so the official welcome of the Winters was. I was looking to go for a break with my friends. Ottawa and Montreal were the two destinations that were crossing our minds. We wanted to drive from London Ontario and enjoy the fall colors. It brought us down to Ottawa to save some driving time and enjoy the nature.

We drove to Ottawa through Peterborough. It took approximately 7 hours to drive. Both sides of the road we could see some beautiful colors. It was late afternoon as we reached Ottawa. The first destination for the day was the boat ride on the Ottawa River. To avoid any mishap we had already booked our tickets online as it was the last cruise for the season. It starts at the foot of the Ottawa locks, and we rushed towards the docks to catch our ferry. Unexpectedly it was chilling cold which made us cover ourselves in jackets to enjoy the cruise. 

(First View of the Ottawa Lock Station)

                                                                          (View of Rideau Canal)

The cruise took us took us to all the major attractions right from Ottawa to Gatineau, also known as the French side of Canada. Fall is considered to be one of the most colorful seasons of the year. As we reached the middle of the river, there was a 360degree view of the colorful trees and some iconic historic buildings. The guide on the boat was very informative he spoke in both English and French. He explained everything in detail which gave us an idea about the history of Ottawa. The ride lasted for about 90 minutes. We enjoyed some spectacular views and the landscape while the cold breeze was kissing our faces.

(View of the Gatineau city from the cruise)

By the end of the tour, we were hungry. We headed towards ByWard Market which is famous for nightlife, pubs, cafeteria, restaurants and unique boutique shops. As per the expectation, the area was vivacious and full of life. We headed to Kochin Kitchen, and it smelled authentic South Indian delicacy. I just fell in love with the place the food was just fantastic. I will say the best till now I had in Canada.

(The famous spider statue outside National Gallery of Canada)

It was again the time to hit the roads and explore the streets of ByWard market and enjoy the nightlife. The entire area was beautifully lit up. We walked all the way down to Notre Dame Basilica took some pictures. The day came to an end, and it was time to hit the pub.

The day started with some beautiful sunshine and unexpected temperature of-1 degC. It did not stop us from hitting the roads and exploring the city. We headed to the most iconic building in Ottawa none other than "Building of Parliament.” To our astonishment that it was too liberal for tourist and common people to walk up to the seat of power and explore the history and legacy. The building itself is constructed on 952,391 sq ft area, just so huge. I will say it as the center of attraction of the town.

(Iconic Building of Parliament)

Entrance to the iconic building is free due to holiday all the tickets were sold out. We had no other option than to visit from outside.

Major attractions of the city were within walking distance from the Parliament. Our next destination was "Château Laurier" the most upscale property of Ottawa. We then headed to Rideau Canal followed by the walk in the downtown area. It is built up with federal buildings and cafeterias. Ottawa has numerous options of museums. We were short of time which strangled us from visiting them. We headed to see the beautiful sculpture of Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica in the day time. 

(Supreme Court Of Canada)

(Notre Dame Cathedral Basilica)

Last but not the least stop for our trip was Major's Hill Park situated just west of ByWard Market. From the park, we got an unobstructed view of the Parliament on one side and city of Gatineau on the other.

(Bridge connecting Ontario and Quebec)

(Breathtaking Fall colors in the park)

Park was full of some fantastic views and refreshing natural beauty. The park stimulated us to walk on the bridge connecting Quebec and Ontario. It also brought us to an end of our trip.