The 39 best areas to stay in Ottawa

We stayed here for one night while visiting Ottawa, and it turned out to be one of the most relaxing and luxurious experiences we’ve had. The room was beautifully designed, and I especially appreciated the high ceiling, which added to the sense of space and comfort. The service was excellent—attention to detail was evident throughout. Nothing felt rushed or overlooked. We were provided with plush bathrobes, including a child-sized robe, which was pretty cute. The hotel features an Olympic-sized swimming pool, where we spent a good portion of our stay. The presence of a lifeguard on duty further enhanced our sense of safety. The only drawback was the parking arrangement. Parking is valet-only, which in itself is fine, but it is not clearly advertised. Many guests, ourselves included, approached the parking lot entrance expecting a self-park option, only to find the ticket system unresponsive. Clearer communication on this policy would certainly improve the overall experience. Overall, however, this property combines luxury, comfort, and excellent amenities, and I would highly recommend it to anyone visiting Ottawa.

The hotel combines the charm of being oldish with modern furnishings in an excellent location right in the heart of city. From here, museums, top restaurants, and galleries are within easy reach, providing great starting points for exploration. Behind the hotel, there is a beautiful park with a pleasant walking path along the canal. The rooms are spacious and comfortable, with bathrooms equipped with a bathtub. However, it is worth noting that there was no shampoo in the rooms, which, despite daily cleaning, was not replenished—a minor detail that could be improved. The breakfast is of good quality but quite overpriced considering the cost, slightly lowering the value for money. Suprised that the waiter takes the tip on their own, although some might find it unusual.

We spent one night at Fairmont Chateau Laurier. The check-in process involved a long queue, and we had to return because they initially assigned us a basic room on the 2nd floor which wasn’t great. But, as platinum guests, we were upgraded to a deluxe room with two baths on the 3rd floor, offering castle views. The room was spacious, with a very comfortable bed, Le Labo toiletries, and marble showers / bath. The restaurant and bar lounge have both been renovated. The food and drinks are fine but lack refinement. The pool and gym area are nice. Overall, the hotel has a historic feel and resembles more of a castle attraction than a true luxury hotel. Despite these points, we had a great stay, and exploring Ottawa was very convenient on foot. I would return, but I prefer the hotel to further renovate its common areas and hope for a better room. I think the hotel is more business-oriented, which might be a bit inconvenient for leisure guests. Additionally, at check-in, they did not mention that our rate included breakfast, which we only found out at checkout. I posted a detailed review about ZOE’s restaurant and bar for those interested.

Stunning historic hotel with excellent service and elegant rooms, the castle-like architecture is iconic. Location is very central, right by Parliament Hill and the canal, which makes it convenient for everything. The downside is it's quite busy being downtown, so expect some traffic noise and crowds. But if you want to be in the heart of Ottawa, this is the place. Would stay again.

I’ve been at this hotel several times over the years, and unfortunately, the experience has declined since the pandemic. The interior now feels quite dated and worn out, especially considering the room prices. What’s more concerning is the overall atmosphere. There seems to have been a major change in the kitchen, and the food has lost much of its taste and flavour since the pandemic. After speaking with a few people, I learned that the work environment has become tense, toxic, and unpleasant. High staff turnover has driven away the competent, kind, and caring employees who took pride in their work, and made this place special. There’s a noticeable lack of morale and respect among the management and remaining staff, and this ultimately affects the guest experience, leaving a rather bitter impression. It’s very disappointing to see how much things have changed, with profits seemingly valued over the customer experience. I wouldn’t recommend this place until the owners take steps to improve the quality of food and services, and how both guests and staff are treated.

As a Wedding Planner I highly recommend the Chateau Laurier for your wedding. There are so many fabulous rooms to choose from for both your ceremony and your reception. As Ottawa's "Castle in the city" its really the most luxurious place to host your wedding. Guests can enjoy an overnight stay and come to your wedding right from their guest room which is fabulous for your out of towners. The location is perfect for all your wedding photos too. The team though is what is exceptional. From sales, to coordination, to your tasting to your actual wedding day the team wants your wedding to be perfect. When custom requests come in they do their best to accommodate, always striving to make each wedding unique. The food is also exceptional. As a wedding vendor we eat at a lot of weddings but we always look forward to a wedding dinner at Chateau Laurier. Highly recommend for your wedding, its a wonderful place to WOW your guests!

Hotel is brilliantly located and looks fantastic from the outside the majesty of the public areas reflects the history of the hotel. On check in we were told 'we used to offer buffet breakfast but now its individual items, so you can only pick one item from the menu and you will need to book'. We went to our room and had been checked in to a disabled room so we went back to reception to request a room move which was duly accommodated. The new room was nice, though the desk chair was tatty, ripped and well worn which did not match the other furniture in the room. The bathroom lacked additional amenities you would expect in a hotel of this standard such as a shower cap. The bathroom as you would expect for the age of the hotel. The room an bathroom were spotlessly clean. We then went straight to the concierge desk and a very helpful guy explained about the city and immediately booked us on to the interactive Parliament experience - exactly the service you expect from this type of hotel. Breakfast the next morning was not great. We had breakfast included in our room rate which I would not have booked had I known what breakfast entailed. We were escorted to our table, asked if we had dined there before and we said no. Again we were told 'we used to do buffet breakfast but now its individual items'. We have never been before so why tell us about the buffet? The choice of breakfast items - we were only allowed one - was limited and pretentious. The waiter was apologetic that we could only have one item and was clearly embarrassed - a lack of training I suspect or complaints that the buffet was no longer available. The food was not great, the hot food not very hot. We stayed 2 nights and breakfast the next morning we had a similar experience with a different waiter - embarrassed that we could only pick one item. My smoked salmon bagel arrived with normal salmon which was not good. I did complain and it was changed. We checked out and I explained to the receptionist how disappointed we were with the overall experience. For a hotel that is the equivalent of staying in London at a Park Lane hotel overall the Fairmont is disappointing. We really felt we were in for a special treat whilst in Ottawa but the hotel turned out to be just another hotel, lacking the flair and sparkle such a prestigious, institution like Chateau Laurier should exude.

It’s a canal of historic importance to Canada. There’s not much to do about it though, especially if it’s not frozen for skating. And I was only really able to get subpar pictures from the sides

Tourist in ottowa ! You need to see this . This is a place you want to see in summers and in winters. The vibe here is very nice - full atmosphere for a family outing plus amazing food options by the street . The walk around canal is amazing , you can take a walk by water , by the canal , you can walk over bridge to Quebec. Whole area is scenic and beautiful. You can also go for a run or ride a bike here . Additionally - these all places in Rideau Canal area are pet friendly too . So you can go for a walk with your pets on amazing trails . The o my struggle you may face is parking - which you can find if you drive around for 2-3 mins . Overall , this is the place to start your day in ottowa as a tourist and your day will pass by itself . If you are interested you can see when canal goes down and how water is balanced too.

It was an interesting tour, we learned some history. They use an electric boat. The way it's built does not allow you to enjoy the view, the seats face each other. Our guide had a good sense of humor, kept making jokes. There's is a toilet and bar on board.

Looking for the ultimate Ottawa experience? The Rideau Canal is a must-see, no matter the season! This UNESCO World Heritage Site winds through the heart of the city, offering a picture-perfect backdrop for every kind of adventure. In the warmer months, set sail on a boat cruise, cast a line for some fishing, or simply stroll or cycle along scenic pathways-don’t forget to pack some snacks for the ducks and enjoy a picnic by the water. When winter arrives, the canal transforms into the legendary Rideau Canal Skateway-the world’s largest naturally frozen ice rink! Glide across 7.8 kilometers of sparkling ice, warm up with a hot chocolate, and treat yourself to a classic BeaverTail pastry from one of the many stands along the way. If you’re visiting during Winterlude, Ottawa’s iconic winter festival, you’ll find the canal buzzing with music, art, and family-friendly fun, including giant snow slides and dazzling ice sculptures. Insider tip: Many of Ottawa’s top attractions-like Parliament Hill, the National Gallery, and the bustling ByWard Market-are just steps from the canal, making it easy to blend sightseeing with your outdoor adventures. Whether you’re walking the dog, skating with friends, or savoring local eats at cozy canal-side restaurants, the Rideau Canal is the place to be for unforgettable memories all year round!

Must visit place when in Ottawa. Boat ride or cycling whatever you prefer is a good way to spend time around the canal. There are not many places to park so look for parking options.

This is a 202 km long canal linking the Ottawa River in Ottawa to Lake Ontario in Kingston. It was constructed between 1826 to 1832 and includes 46 locks, raising boats 83 metres upstream to Rideau Lakes & lowering 50 metres back down to Kingston. The Rideau Canal is a UNESO World Heritage Site and considered to be the best preserved 'slackwater' canal in North America. You can view locks 1-8 directly from Plaza Bridge. This is a great spot for picture taking and to look at the mechanics of the canal from up close. Really neat bit of sightseeing in the the city centre of Ottawa, convenient to include along with intended attractions around Parliament Hill.

This was one of the prettiest places in Ottawa to sightsee, the view was most extraordinary.

Great hotel. Would gladly stay again. Friendly, helpful staff Quiet rooms, I had a beautiful view. Bed was comfy, with good pillows, crisp sheets and a slightly weighted duvet. Hotel conveniently attached to the mall. Excellent location. Gym was modern, also with a great view and top of the line equipment. Pool and hot tub looked great. Cafe on site was delicious with great service, grab and go sandwiches or sit-down.

My stay at the Westin Hotel was excellent. The location could not be better - located in the core of downtown and just a short walk away from Parliament, the Byward Market, Elgin Street, parks and retail stores. Having direct access to Rideau Shopping Centre from the hotel (without having to even exit the hotel) was convenient and practical. The staff were friendly, the hotel is clean/modern, the buffet breakfast is exceptional, and the room was spacious and comfortable with an amazing view of the city. Minor feedback: the room was a connecting room, which made it a bit noisy at times (you can sometimes hear the adjacent connecting room). Also, in terms of overall room amenities for a hotel at this price/rating, it would have been nice to have basic toiletries as well as guest slippers in the room. This should be standard for a Westin. Regardless, highly recommend this hotel and will certainly return on my next trip to Ottawa.

Check-in was very smooth and the receptionist was very friendly. She welcomed me and then told me she upgraded our room! The room was very comfortable. The pillows were just right! The shower was amazing as well. We had a very enjoyable and restful stay.

We recently stayed over night and there was a little mix up with the booking (which was our fault). It would have made it less of an enjoyable stay but Jackson at the front desk went above and beyond. He went out of his way to fix everything and correct the issue. It would have been easy to say it was our fault and leave it at that but he wanted to ensure we had a great experience! The hotel is always clean and the staff always very accommodating. Would highly recommend to anyone.

Great location!!! Could not complain about the service. They handled the overload of people easily. Attended a conference and they could easily accommodate the massive numbers registered for the conference. There was lots of extra walking to do in order to have access to a great selection of workshops and plenary panels to choose from. The downside for me was the cost of meals 😪 Delicious mind you 😋

I’ve had a fantastic stay at the Westin Ottawa, my best hotel stay in a while. I have been attending a conference, and have had food and beverages provided by the Westin team, used the valet service, and dined at the breakfast restaurant on the 3rd floor. The room was very clean and quiet, the staff have all shown amazing hospitality and service, and the food has been delicious. The location is the perfect walking distance from many major attractions. I look forward to my next stay here!

We checked in late on Friday Oct. 17th. We were assigned rooms 1228 and 1208. Room 1228 overlooks what looks like the mechanical area of the hotel. So, it is not a quiet room by any means. But nothing compares to waking up to TWO fire alarms! One at around 1:50 AM. The other at around 3 AM. Both alarms did not require evacuation. After the second alarm I called the front desk to inquire I was told that the manager on duty was trying to figure out what was happening. I requested compensation for a sleepless night. I was offered a free breakfast per guest for one day. We are here for two nights. So, I am expecting a bit more. Since we have not had a good night's rest. The room as I said overlooks some roofs and mechanical looking equipment. As I type all I hear is something like a leaf blower. And a very loud motor whine. You can hear toilets flushing. And since everyone was woken up by the alarms, there were a lot of toilets flushing. It seems that everytime a toilet flushes it triggers a whining sound in the building. So, thus far, our stay has been absolutely terrible. I can't comment about the location as we arrived late last night. We are here for a wedding. The Westin is the venue. Fingers crossed it gets better from here on. It has thus far been a very loud expensive experience. ***UPDATE*** MORE ALARMS!! I spoke with a manager who understood the terrible night we all had on Friday to Saturday. We received the complimentary breakfasts. He was also going to provide a price adjustment to the room charges. I received my bill online. One room received the adjustment. The second one did not. Which means another trip to the front desk. As for the false fire alarms, THEY CONTINUED! When I asked what had happened to cause two fire alarms in the wee hours of Saturday, the same manager said that the first one was caused by someone triggering it. He says that the second one was a glitch caused by the first one. Hmm mm. 🤔🤔🤔🤔 so why did we have two other alarms around the same time this morning? They were different tones from the Saturday morning. But both still jarred us awake. If you are planning a stay, ensure that you ask if the situation with the alarm system has been resolved.

I stayed for 2 nights at the end of August to celebrate my graduation. I requested a bathtub before check in and was given a complimentary upgrade to a Executive King suite, which was amazing. I'm adding a photo of the tub cuz it's so hard to find a recent review with a photo. While neither night was totally perfect (a false fire alarm and I was somehow assigned the room above the ballroom which was having a loud wedding reception), the stay was otherwise without incident from check in to check out. Guest services people were efficient and apologetic for the issues. Room service personnel were nice, but Forty One is very overpriced for the quality of food they offer. I live in the city so I know how amazingly accessible (in terms of facilities, not mobility) the location is. And I got a corner room, so I had a nice view. I was prepared to give them a lower rating the previous night because of the noise, but honestly they were very generous in their compensation, I had a free upgrade and appreciated the prompt response to my request. I was upset at the time, but I checked out very happy. Recommended. Edit: One thing I've realized from reading the other guest reviews is all that's truly missing from the grandeur of this hotel is that "go the extra mile" training that should be given to service personnel. While some personnel were very good, some seemed to need training to smile with their eyes. I can't personally say much about the cleaning since I only stayed 2 nights, but upon check in I did notice some discrepancies.

Great hotel. Charming and classic. Had our wedding ceremony here and the team were great. The newly renovated Trillium room provided the perfect back drop. Kylie, Claire and Aurora were excellent to coordinate with (on shorter notice). The team did an excellent job, the food and drink were great. Thank you! Joel & Sam

Room was ok clean comfy .not the best view. (Straight on to another building )coffee machine was ok but not ideal prefer kettle no bottled water or anything but had soap mouthwash and shoe polish which was great never got room cleaned really later in afternoon maid was about felt sorry told her not to bother .she looked tired .pool was great .fantastic locaton .

The room was clean and comfortable, though the view wasn’t great — it looked straight onto another building. The coffee machine worked fine, but I personally would have preferred a kettle. There wasn’t any bottled water provided, but the room did have some thoughtful touches like soap, mouthwash, and even shoe polish, which was a nice surprise. Housekeeping came by later in the afternoon, but I didn’t have the room cleaned since the maid looked quite tired — I told her not to worry about it. She was polite and hardworking, and I appreciated her effort. The pool area was great — clean, well-maintained, and a perfect way to relax. Overall, the location is fantastic, close to everything and very convenient. Not a perfect stay, but comfortable and pleasant enough for a short visit.

We just returned from our trip and stay at this hotel. Like others, we had both positive and negative experiences. The check-in process was simple and straightforward. We were even able to extend our stay by a day. Our room was on the 7th floor and had magnificent views of the city and changing of the guards, and the beds were firm and super comfy. However, it was not that clean, I was literally able to write my name in the dust. We didn't have enough towels in the room for our family of 4, and we didn't have robes/slippers. The pool is on the bottom floor and doesn't have the greatest views. The hot tub water was murky and often had more than 2 people in it at a time. The sauna and bathroom in the gym were really decent, and I enjoyed using it. The valet parking was great, and always had my vehicle ready for me in a timely fashion. Katie and Adrian were really great and helped in the check-in and check-out process.

We stayed as a Family during Labour day weekend. Good receptionist. Valet parking is good. They even checked us in early as room was ready. The best part is Location. Prime spot. Everything is walkable and you can fee the vibe in the morning and night as well. The size of the bed is less than queen size. Thats why I have to give 4. Otherwise all good. Bit pricey. But its prime location helped us to cover all places in Ottawa.

Rooms: we had kind size bed room, plenty of space and very comfy mattress. It was very quiet at night and so good for sleep. However, the bed sheet smells a little bit much bleach, and the room air smells moldy when we entered but it got better after we turned on the AC. At night, AC vent was blowing air into my head when I was sleeping. Service: overall we had very good service, but one thing to improve is about LE internal commutation. We booked Fri/Sat 2 nights and we were ready to pay for 2 nights parking when we checked in. The first evening Fri evening when I asked for my car and told the valet parking staff (Blvd) that I would come back on Sat noon, he told me he would let the front desk know and only charge me for one night parking. When I checked out on Sunday morning, the front desk Karina doesn’t seem to receive the message, took a while to figure it out and asked me more questions why I only parked for one night. As I mentioned, we were ready to pay for 2 nights parking so in the end, we paid for 2 nights to save all the unnecessary back and forth commutation. Hope the internal communication to make customers experience better. Location: 5 star out of 5! So downtown and walking distance to basically everywhere in Downtown ottawa.

Astounding. The buildings are massive. There's just no way to fully grasp how big these fabulous buildings are without seeing them in person. There was a lot of construction going on, but still worth going. I took the tour of the House of Commons. It was interesting, fun, and educational. Well worth the 40-45 minutes standing & walking. They have stools they provide for you to carry with you is you cannot stand that long. I used one, it was great, sturdy, easy to use & carry.

Beautiful buildings, many of the buildings were being renovated when we visited. We saw tge parliament of Canada, the Supreme court of Canada, Central Bank buildings, House of Commons (I think), and other important structures. Lot's of tourists. There is a public washroom available which is also accessible for physically challenged. Parking can be done on a nearby street.

Parliament Hill is an iconic symbol of Canada’s history, democracy, and architectural beauty. The stunning Gothic Revival buildings and the scenic views of the Ottawa River make it a must-see destination. Visitors can enjoy guided tours, the ceremonial Changing of the Guard, and the impressive evening light show. Whether day or night, Parliament Hill captures the spirit and pride of the nation beautifully... 🇨🇦

Great tour of the House of Commons. Very informative and the your guide was bilingual which was great. Tour lasted about an hour. Make sure to make reservations in advance or you may not get on the tour time you’d like. Also make sure to have all the proper documentation that is listed on the website. Be prepared to go through a security check similar to what you would at an airport. Tours cost nothing to book. This is a temporary home to the House of Commons until the main block’s construction is complete in 2030/2031.

Had the chance to visit Parliament Hill in Ottawa — an iconic symbol of Canada’s history and democracy. The architecture is remarkable, and the views overlooking the Ottawa River are breathtaking. A truly inspiring place that reflects both heritage and national pride

Parliament Hill is a must see when you are in Ottawa. The buildings are beautiful and the architecture is impressive up close. Walking around the grounds is peaceful and you really get a sense of history. It is especially nice in the summer with the views of the river. The only downside is it can get very busy with tourists, but it is still worth the visit. A great spot to take pictures and enjoy the heart of the city.

I was stunned in admiration of the Parliament buildings . Beautiful view 😍. I visited over the weekend so I had no access into the building just the surroundings and it’s free access. Just walk around take pictures and videos and admire the structures and seeing the busyness of downtown at night was beautiful as a tourist.

This is a fine airport and rightfully so for our nation's capital. The entire airport was reasonably pack and efficient, yet bright with ample air and space for everyone. Airport is very clean and business formal. Security line is long but quick.

I had good experience at Ottawa International Airport. It was not too busy in middle September. Personnel was polite and willing to assist a foreigner. Airport is not as big as one could expect. But that precisely makes it a nice spot as it is not noisy not busy airport.

Small but effective airport. Clean bathrooms. Various parking options for short or long term. Clear directions, courteous personnel (airlines, shops, security).

Quiet airport during the evening time. Place is very clean, neat and tidy. Some stores are still open.

I really love this Airport, great layout and always clean But the gate crews and luggage service are the WORST! They are so incompetent, every time I fly there are no gate crews available, wait on tarmac 10 minutes then wait 10 minutes for the bridge and another 20+ minutes for baggage. This has been going on for years. Landed 30 minutes ago and still waiting, yet Airport is not even busy Get your crap together! I fly to different cities all the time and it's seamless, what's the problem here? Edit :Now 40 minutes and nothing, baggage carrousel is not even turning Edit#2: still no luggage = Shame on YOW+Porter

Really pleasant mid-size airport. Nice staff at security.

One of the most disappointing airports for a national capital. As someone who lives in Ottawa, I’ve been through YOW many times, and honestly, it has to be one of the most boring airports in the world. There’s virtually nothing to do while waiting for an international flight — very few shops, restaurants, or amenities. I’ve just come through Miami and Fort Lauderdale airports, and even with the U.S. government partially shut down, the service there was excellent and the staff were friendly and efficient. Then I land in Ottawa — we arrive 20 minutes early, and yet we sit on the tarmac for another 20 minutes waiting for a gate. It’s not like this airport is overflowing with flights. And don’t even get me started on luggage — at almost any other airport, bags come out fairly quickly, but in Ottawa it’s always a complete mess. The wait times for luggage are ridiculous. To make things worse, when you finally get to the luggage pickup area, there are no bathrooms available. If you need to use one, you actually have to go back into the customs area — completely inconvenient and poorly thought out. For the capital city of Canada, this airport is a real embarrassment. It desperately needs better management, more amenities, and some pride in representing our country.

Had a lovely time staying here. The front desk staff were incredibly friendly and welcoming. I’ve stayed in plenty of hotels and I truly enjoyed my experience here. I found the room to be very comfortable and clean. I enjoyed my sleep which was important to me. The hotel also has a restaurant with a fabulous menu. I also enjoyed how central the hotel was which made it easy to get around on foot. I will definitely be staying here again and would certainly recommend this hotel for your next stay. Thank you so much.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 4/5 Great location for exploring downtown Ottawa! ARC The Hotel is in an unbeatable location—just a short walk to Parliament Hill, the Rideau Centre Mall, restaurants, coffee shops, and major attractions. If you’re visiting Ottawa and want to be close to everything, this hotel is incredibly convenient. Room & Comfort: The room itself was clean and comfortable, but felt a bit outdated in terms of décor and style. However, everything worked well and it got the job done for a city stay. The bed was comfortable and the room was quiet, which made for good rest after a long day of exploring. Housekeeping: The only downside was that fresh towels and toiletries were not replaced daily, which would have been appreciated. Consistent housekeeping would definitely improve the guest experience. Convenience & Services: One of the best features was the luggage storage after checkout—very helpful if you want to keep exploring the city before heading out. The front desk staff were friendly and efficient, and check-in/check-out was smooth. Extras to Note: • Easy access to public transit • Safe and walkable area • Stylish boutique atmosphere in the lobby • Good value for the location • Quiet property despite being downtown Overall: ARC The Hotel is a great choice for travelers who want convenience, walkability, and value in the heart of Ottawa. With a few small updates and more consistent housekeeping, it could easily be a top-tier boutique stay. I’d stay here again for the location alone!

We stayed in a Premium King Bed room at Arc The Hotel in downtown Ottawa. Overall, the hotel is acceptable for a short stay. The room was clean, and the bed was comfortable and in good condition, which contributed to a restful night. However, the bathroom left much to be desired. It was extremely cramped—even for a single person—and the sink was particularly small, causing water to splash onto the counter and floor during regular use. This detracted from the overall comfort of the stay. The hotel’s strongest point is its excellent location. Situated right in the downtown core, it’s within easy walking distance of Parliament Hill and surrounded by a variety of high-quality restaurants. For travelers prioritizing central location over in-room amenities, this hotel may still be worth considering.

We stayed last weekend for a wedding. Location is perfect and staff amazing. Always at the front ready to greet you and help. Parking is tricky the first time but easy after. Our wedding rate was of great value which allowed us to extend out stay. Room was good, bathroom a bit small but a minor issue. Overall a great experience and this will be our hotel of choice going forward.

A good hotel at a good price. Will this place win any awards? Probably not. But is it clean? Are the staff friendly and helpful? Is it a 6 min walk to Parliament? Yes, yes and yes. If you book here, make sure it’s a good price. The rooms are good, but there are no luxuries here. So the price needs to reflect that. When we stayed here, we paid $350 for 2 nights incl tax in July. I think that’s a fair price. Walkable to Sparks st, Parliament, the War Memorial, 2 great diners, etc. I liked the location. As it happens, there were jackhammers working during the day. But that didn’t bother us as we were out touring while the hard working construction workers were hard at it. Loved the staff. Tom was very helpful and cleaned up my mess when it accidentally spilled water on the floor. Only 4* because of the hotel’s simplicity with a $175/night price tag.

My husband and I reserved a room several months before our stay. Upon arriving, we were greeted by a lovely gentleman that got us checked in. The “room” was small with a tiny window and as an extra bonus it was a joint room with paper thin walls. I mean when you can hear the zipper from your neighbour’s suitcase that is definitely an issue! Also, the AC had zero settings and sounded like an airplane engine. Needless to say, we were very disappointed and spent very little time there.

Huge thank you to Kevin at the concierge. you’re amazing! At first, we thought he was just being extra nice to us, but no! Kevin is genuinely kind and friendly to everyone checking in. Our room was a bit noisy because of the AC, but honestly, it’s totally understandable. this city has so much historic charm, and we’re right in the heart of downtown. What really made our stay special was Kevin’s thoughtful recommendations. He pointed us to some incredible museums, must-see spots, and great dining options and all absolutely worth it. We’re so grateful. Thank you, Kevin! Update on the room: The moment we walked into the hotel, we were hit with a foul, musty odor that never went away. On top of that, the room’s AC sounded like a broken engine—it was ridiculously loud. We barely got any sleep during our entire 3-night stay. It was miserable.

The National Gallery of Canada in Ottawa is definitely worth a visit. The architecture is stunning, and the atmosphere feels calm and welcoming. You can find everything from famous Canadian artists to thought-provoking modern art, plus the amazing Indigenous art collection. It’s a place where you can spend hours exploring and always discover something new. I have been there two times but still feel i haven’t seen the full.

A beautiful building with convenient parking on site and small coffee shop in the building. 2 floors of art mainly contemporary, indigenous and European art. You will need at least 2-3.5 hours to finish. Very spacious. Clean bathrooms and nice staff.

The National Gallery of Canada was excellent, with loads of Group of Seven, indigenous, and other Canadian artists, plus lots of European artists too (including a well-thought-out wall of Van Gogh’s progression as an artist). The restaurant inside is great as well, with lots of ready-made and made-to-order options.

A must-visit for art lovers and anyone visiting Ottawa. The grand, high-ceilinged architecture and automatic doors left us in awe, making the exhibition space feel even more elegant and enjoyable. It took us about 2–3 hours to explore the entire building and exhibitions. The museum features an excellent collection of contemporary, Indigenous, American, and European artworks and installations. It also offers a beautiful view of Parliament Hill. Inside, you will find a cafeteria, a café, a library, and a gift shop.

Such a beautiful gallery with a WIDE variety of art styles and artists, from contemporary to european to indigenous artists! It was only 2 stories but the floors were MASSIVE. We spent 2-3hrs but defo would’ve spent more if we visited every single room. It has a massive open window panel so the natural light is super beautiful on a sunny day. Would definitely recommend!! There’s also a summer promotion going on right now, so I definitely wouldn’t miss it.

A stunning celebration of art and culture. The architecture alone inspires awe, and the Indigenous and contemporary exhibits beautifully capture Canada’s diverse artistic spirit.

Many wonderful exhibits to see - I always find contemporary art interesting. With that being said, the Canadian art is what I enjoy the most. Plenty of excellent examples from the group of seven and indigenous artists. Be sure to visit the Rideau Chapel while you’re there. Absolutely stunning.

The location is great! Conveniently close to the Parliament grounds. I love that the corner suite has many windows, although decor is a bit dated. I look forward to when renovations are complete. I greatly appreciate we were let into the revolving restaurant level to watch the fireworks, with the lights off - the vantage point was perfect, and very convenient that the hotel room was only an elevator ride away! The front desk staff were very informative. Thanks to everyone!

The rooms are large but need some serious renovations. The shower had no water pressure. The view of the parliament was ok but the windows were filthy. Pillows were really nice and the beds are comfortable. I enjoyed the water station in the lobby. Was refreshing after walking all day. Breakfast buffet downstairs was 33$. Pricey but included coffee, juice and will cook your eggs for you any style. Great fruit choices. Make sure too visit 28th floor using your key pass for magnificent views of the city. Good cable TV.

They are under renovations so hopefully it will improve. The location is fantastic and walkable to a lot. The restaurant has a happy hour from 3 to 6. The front desk is super helpful. The valet are super helpful. The rooms are small and dated. But as mentioned under renos. Disappointing there us no lounge for status as at many Marriotts. The beds are comfortable.

I can’t say I had the best experience at this Marriott because of the heavy renovations going on, which caused a lot of noise pretty much everywhere in the hotel. When I made my reservation, I asked for a room on a higher floor, and the check-in staff were kind enough to give me one along with free breakfast. But as soon as I stepped out of the elevator on the 26th floor, I could already hear the loud renovation noise from the lower floors, and it was honestly unbearable. The room itself (2623) was newly renovated and very cozy, but the noise made it hard to enjoy. I asked to switch rooms and was offered one on the 14th floor. It was bigger but definitely needed renovations. Still, it was a nice room, but the noise was just as bad. Other than that, the hotel facilities were great. There’s a big pool, a gym, a play area for kids, and another for teenagers. They have one main restaurant in the lobby that serves a breakfast buffet in the morning and an à la carte menu for the rest of the day. The staff were all very polite and helpful. There’s also a huge underground parking area with electric charging stations. I’d definitely come back once all the renovations are done.

The best hotel experience ever had. Was on a last minute deal for a long weekend with my boy. The room, newly renovate was amazing. Fast check-in. Pool was clean and great. Even on a bad situation, they go beyond expecation: the floor below us was on renovation during day. My kid need to take a nap on afternoon. They give us a lower level room (quiet) only for the nap ! That's what I expect only from best hotels.

Great location, but my room looked like it came out of The Shining. The light made buzzing sounds, and looked like it was last renovated in 1983. Worse, my room made "Scooby Doo" noises the entire three nights I was there, with whistling air blowing into the room through an uncloseable gap in the rooms glass windows. The noise protection in the room was nonexistent, as I could hear every other guests whenever they would open or close their doors in the hallway, or even flush their toilets. Additionally, my room was honestly pretty filthy for a Marriott branded hotel. There was no boxspring or matress protectors present (and the boxspring had brown/orange/red staining around the edges), the bathroom vent had visible dust and filth, and there was visible staining on the walls in certain areas of the room. It's certainly not the worst hotel I have stayed in, but I was desperate to get out of there as soon as I could, and will avoid returning here if possible.

Great location. Lucky to get a renovated room - very nice!! Just a couple quirks. There was garbage in my waste bin and hair in my shower (ick). No full length mirror in the room or anywhere else that I could find.

The room was spotless clean, modern and spacious, fully equipped kitchen..bed sheets and pillows smells so fresh..i love it. I was surprised It has an in suite laundry. Great location. Safe and convenient parking. This will be now our go-to hotel for its excellent amenities, location and service. We really enjoyed our stay. I would highly recommend this hotel!!

Amazing room (modern suite) with so much space and everything you could need, including a washer and tumble dryer. Kitchen was well equipped, bed was comfortable. Parking was a good idea given the area, there seems to be a drug user community camped around the area of the hotel. Overall great hotel, good location for downtown, would stay again

This hotel was lovely to stay at! All of the staff was very kind, welcoming and helpful! The room was immaculate and very spacious!! When I had a question the staff was quick to answer my text messages! I even messaged them to ask about a late check out and they were so kind! We ended up spending the evening with our son at the hospital, so we didn’t actually even stay the night! But it was a great landing place in between our friends wedding ceremony and reception. We will definitely be back!

We had a great stay here. We stayed in a group and went to Bluesfest. The staff were very friendly and helpful. The hotel really just did all the things that I wish other hotels would do. Early check in was an easy and inexpensive upgrade, and late check out was available too and she didn't charge us. The front desk staff were super easy going about it. The rooms were really nice and had everything we needed. Little things like full sized bottles of shampoo and conditioner, wine glasses, closet space with hangers in each room, full fridge, microwave, a convenient entry bench, lots of seating. A lovely staff member dropped off a box of chocolates for us! The location was also amazing, we walked everywhere. Parking was fine it was $33. My only suggestions to make this an all around amazing stay would be a coffee station in the lobby. We will try to stay here every time we visit downtown Ottawa, highly recommend.

We booked a suite so there was lots of space for the 3 of us and our small dog. The hotel had a very relaxed pet policy which was very important to us. Super central location. Parking was sold out most of the time we were there and getting to and from the parking lot is a little confusing. Really good coffee shop in the main floor. Nicely stocked kitchenette. The hotel needs to rethink the coffee situation in the room, it was bad. Overall a very good experience. TV setup needs to be modernized as there was no ability to connect your device to strea.

Les suites met all my expectations. The room was clean and spacious fitting my family of 5 comfortably for the duration of our stay. I was impressed with having 2 bathrooms in our 2 bedroom suite and laundry available in our room. The location was fantastic, there was so much to do within walking distance. During check in when it was very busy (big dance event in the area) staff was friendly, apologetic and prompt. Communicating frequently with guests waiting in line and offered drinks and popsicles while we waited. Check out was made so fast and easy with online check out. Thank you for the comfortable stay

Excellent location and value as compared to the other hotels nearby. We stayed in a two room suite and were happy to have access to a washer and dryer as well as kitchen. The location is close walking distance to many local attractions as well as the train station. It was easy to get here from the airport using transit. The room was clean and had daily maid service. The front desk staff were always very courteous and helpful. The only downsides were the slow elevators. The pool was always very busy but we did not use it much. Would highly recommend and would stay here again.

We came here to use our ASTC Passport. The staff was friendly, handed us a map and told us about the demonstrations that they were going to be doing over the next couple hours. This place is really large and they have a lot of planes, helicopters, and a few ground based vehicles. It can get quite loud since everything echoes in this massive warehouse. Most of the displays are static displays that you will pause to read. A lot of really interesting aviation history going back over 100 years. I was a big fan of the display regarding the engines used in planes. Their kid section is pretty small, so it can get crowded and chaotic. They did have a great demonstration for the kids and adults about how to land a plane. Being able to sit in a cockpit really makes you appreciate what fighter pilots go through. Overall it is a really interesting museum with a lot of interesting planes. It's not really a place I would bring a younger child as there isn't much for them to do and interact with. If you have time to walk and read this is a good place to go.

A High-Flying History: Review of the Canadian Space and Aviation Museum The Canadian Space and Aviation Museum is far more than just a hangar of old planes—it is a truly expansive journey through the country's pioneering efforts in the air and beyond. This museum is an essential visit for anyone interested in the history of flight, technology, or Canadian military heritage. Plan to set aside at least several hours to fully absorb the scale and detail of this magnificent collection. World-Class Collections and Unforgettable Sights The core collection is breathtaking, featuring an amazing assembly of aircraft spanning the entire conception of Canadian aviation. From rugged civilian bush planes that tamed the northern territories to powerful military jets and prototypes, the range is remarkably diverse. A standout feature, and one that makes this museum truly world-class, is the exceptional collection of World War One aircraft. This display offers a rare and tangible connection to the earliest days of aerial combat, making it a must-see for history buffs. Beyond the atmosphere, the museum also dedicates significant space to Canada's role in space exploration, providing a fascinating look at the technology and artifacts used in orbit. The Essential Special Tour For those looking to deepen their experience, a strong recommendation is to get a viewing of the special tour of the building located next door. This lesser-known addition offers an unforgettable glimpse behind the scenes, providing context and access that elevates the entire visit. It is well worth the extra time and effort. Practical Details for Your Visit The museum has thoughtfully considered the needs of all its guests. It is fully handicapped accessible, ensuring everyone can navigate the vast exhibit space comfortably. Visitors will also find a pleasant cafeteria on-site for refreshment and a well-stocked gift shop for souvenirs. An important note for service members and their families: Military Personnel and Veterans are granted free admission. This is a wonderful gesture that honors their service and makes this valuable piece of history accessible. Finally, with so many photogenic aircraft and compelling displays, make sure you bring a camera to capture the scope of this incredible aviation assembly.

Fantastic experience for all ages! The museum features an impressive collection of aircraft, helicopters, and space artifacts, showcasing Canada’s rich aviation and space history. The displays are well-organized with interactive elements and plenty of information. Great for kids and adults alike. Plan for 1.5–2 hours to explore comfortably. A fun and educational visit!

Large museum filled with actual airplanes and some replicas of historic planes models and prototypes. A good balance of bilingual information on plane present. The planes are somewhat organized chronologically by grouping them by war, although an introduction before Bleriot and Montgolfier could be interesting. The museum was quiet on a weekday beside 3 school groups. As a result, an exercice was prepared for the high schoolers but no demos no workshops no shows no book reading offered to regular museum goers - that lack of interaction felt like a missed opportunity. Young kids can enjoy busy boards, panels, ride on planes, a library, etc. The Destination Moon exhibit was well done and allowed the visitors to experience and immerse themselves as astronauts. Options at cafeteria are too basic (prepackaged sandwiches) Parking - Indigo 9.50$/day

Lovely day trip out to Ottawa yielded a trip to this place. It was around 20$ CAD Per person, my duration of stay was about 2 hours but it could've easily been three. Lots of cool history here to see, and there's a helicopter ride you can take. Also there's a fighter Simulator but it wasnt open that day for us. Aviation buffs this is a must visit in your life time.

Great collections and great Canadian aviation history! Valuable family time experience. They also offer a paid helicopter ride at this museum. Also got a cafeteria with a snack shop for a quick bite. Plenty of parking.

Starts at the story of human desire to fly and then covers the early years, world war 1, and 2, cold war, bush and early commercial planes and then covers early space flights, space shuttles, international space station. An extensive collection of planes, artifacts, history of airports and ground communication with planes. Tribute to Canadian ingenuity (CanadaArm). its astronauts, and innovations attributed to Canada. Can spend over 4 hours going thru each and every display/exhibit. Lots for kids to explore. Another hangar (which i did not visit) has an immense collection in storage that they rotate out from the main exhibit. One can pay a small additional fee to see that as well. If you like aviation and space. A must visit while in Ottawa

Overall, I think this is a beautiful hotel, with gorgeous views. It was a pretty 50/50 experience when it came to service, however. I wouldn’t say the hotel is “dated” it’s just an older hotel, but we did really love the room. The view over the lake was stunning, the bed comfortable, and the bathroom spacious. Everything was clean. My only complaint about the room was that the air conditioning didn’t seem to work very well, but we chalked that up to being on an upper level during a very hot weekend. Upon arrival we pulled up out front and there wasn’t an employee in sight, despite there being a “valet” stand. I exited the vehicle and stood there waiting while my partner entered, checked in, and got the keys. By the time he came back out 5 minutes later, two staff also exited the building. They saw us standing there with our bags in front of the car they still didn’t approach us. It felt really awkward to ask them, where to park, and I just didn’t feel very welcomed. Room service was great, the staff who delivered both times we ordered were really lovely people. Getting to enjoy our breakfast with that view was spectacular. Eggs Benedict was delightful (2 orders of eggs Benedict, apple juice, milk & coffee was $79 for room service), I really liked the pizza too (pizza is a bit subjective, but I personally enjoy the thick crust and lots of cheese) Staff were very quick to respond to our request for extra towels, which was lovely. I’ll say the last sort of issue we had left a sour taste in our mouths. I’ve been to plenty of hotels where, if you have a late flight/transport, will let you remain by the pool to wait it out. After we had checked out we went to the pool entrance, and asked the staff if she could buzz us in. She tells us she would call the front desk. We stood there awkwardly while she had this conversation on the phone, then HANDED US THE PHONE to talk to the desk. Uhhh??? We paid so much for this hotel and we were so busy we didn’t have a chance to sit by the pool until the day we checked out. I was just shocked the staff member couldn’t relay us the message? Like hello? Anyways, the message was sorry but you can only use it if you buy a pool pass. BUY. A POOL PASS. When we already spent this much money? Found it very unprofessional how that was relayed, and the lack of care for guests. We just wanted to sit there for an hour before we had to go. We’ve spent enough money. So overall, I think it’s a great hotel; but as others have mentioned, staff could use some additional training about customer service and professionalism.

Very nice hotel, extremely clean and well maintained, great location. Beautiful decor and attention to details. Room impeccably clean and comfortable, pleasant views, great amenities for the price ( Nespresso coffee machine, real glasses, big TV, quality linen, comfortable beds, robes & slippers, good shower and bath products). Strongly recommend it.

The hotel is in a lovely location next to the lake. The room is ok. Very dated decor. Room service did not include making the bed! Club lounge is really not worth it. NO alcoholic drinks are complimentary at any time. I've never known another Club lounge to be like that. A very small food offering in the evening and no choice of the served dish. Breakfast in the lounge was ok, but still no choice of hot food. Just not worth the extra cost.

They don't consider a balanced menu for vegetarian. Their restaurant menu is only been designed to please the carnivorous. I'm Buddhist and carry a very soft feeling for all living organism. At the same time I respect others and don't bother about what their eating preferences are but excuse me, we must need to have A balanced menu to cater those who doesn't prefer meat at all. Barely any choice and had to leave the restaurant as I couldn't find anything. It's so embarrassing.

I hadn't been at Hilton Lac Leamy for over 20 years. They have done a great job of keeping it looking like new. It feels like a Conrad in terms of luxury. Buffet breakfast at Arome doesn't have lots of options but very good.

At first, my review was 1 star, but after receiving a call from Kaz I have upped it to 4 stars. He was very understanding, apologetic and allowed me to speak without interruption. I truly appreciated his demeanour. I’d also like to do a shout out to Karine at the front desk because she was an absolute sweetheart my entire stay. Give that girl a raise!

For years now, about four to five times a year six of us have been staying here at Lac Lemay on the executive floors. We stay on the executive floors to have the perks of the lounge. We are here again July 13-14 2025 This has to be the worst it has ever been. The lounge has had no drinks and snacks two nights in a row. I went to ask the young lady if she was bringing out the evening snacks or if she could fill the fridge with drinks as this is part of the lounge and paying extra to be on the executive floors. She told me tonight that she would have to go downstairs to get the snacks and that she had to do dishes before she refilled anything! I can’t believe that she said that to me. It should be customers first. Many people are sitting and waiting for her. I can’t believe I was told that she had to do dishes as she was working alone. If that’s the case management should be helping as this is what we are paying for. Even the food in the lounge is going down hill over the years. We might just have to start going to the Hard Rock in Ottawa. It’s beautiful and has many food options which this place is lacking

My husband & I stayed at the Andaz for the 1st time...was not disappointed. The service was impeccable. Ryan at the front desk greeted us with a warm and friendly smile. To our very happy surprise we were upgraded to a corner view which we appreciated very much. The beds & pillows were extremely comfortable. The hotel is an ideal location too. Parking could be a bit better...but we managed. We did have an issue with the AC ...having said that, we did arrive on one of the hottest days of the summer. The evening temp, 10:30pm 34°C...so we took that into consideration,as well as the entire room is windows. We especially loved the access of the ROOFTOP LOUNGE at the hotel and it's spectacular view!!! We would definitely recommend this hotel!

The Andaz is an upscale hotel in the downtown market area of Ottawa. It offers complimentary wine (vouchers) upon check-in and a valet service for parking. My room offered plenty of space (and entryway, full-size bathroom, and coat room) with beautiful views of the Byward market. The lighting options were pleasant and offered my partner several different opportunities to take photos for Instagram under different conditions. The service was attentive and pleasant but lacked charm. Now for the "not great" lol The room was too hot. The thermostat says 17 degrees but it feels like 20+ at all times. Although you can open a windows, it is fall after all, but have fun trying to sleep with all the sirens and noise of a downtown on the weekend. The room is very obviously stripped down, with the minibar devoid of any paid options, and only 2 complimentary water bottles, despite hosting wine glasses and an opener. Who hurt you, Andaz? The coffee selection for the lowest base keurig coffee are also the cheapest possible options: its not terrible, but definitely doesn't fit the upscale price and attempted atmosphere. Our toilet seat is cracked and broken. Honestly, we didnt even notice until it pinched my partner in the morning. Not very upscale. The walls and furniture are covered in marks. Its not a new hotel, its used and enjoyed, but again Andaz has upscale pricing so it really diminishes the feeling of value for money. Construction! Apparently there's still construction right beside the Andaz. Nobody told us anything. It's not showing on their website, but apparently it's bad enough that they left ear plugs in the room to help us sleep. So upscale. The rooftop lounge. Honestly, other than the oddly high pricing on some non-alcoholic items, its a nice space with very attentive staff. What I didn't enjoy was the below-mediocre DJ playing way too loud. It's not a nightclub, and if it wants to be a nightclub, hire better DJs. Bad music, bad mixing, and high volume do not work together. Overall, I had a nice experience but I don't think its worth the price. If my work booked me a room here on business, I'd be happy, but I would never pay my own money to stay here again.

I would like to thank Gee and the team at Andaz ByWard Market. Our teenage daughter was traveling to Ottawa by herself. We wanted a safe, quality hotel for her close to Parliament so she could attend a ceremony. I spoke to Gee directly and was absolutely accommodated and he assured me our daughter would have a wonderful time.... which she did. Thank you again for your fantastic customer service and we appreciate your wonderful staff.

Stayed here for the first time and loved it. Great room, comfy bed, we were on the 5th floor and had a nice view, would recommend the 5th floor or higher. Appreciated the contemporary design. We had brunch in the restaurant on the lobby level and it was lovely. Service all around was very good, pleasant staff, makes a big difference and is key to having a good experience so we really applaud that!

We were impressed by the efficient check-in process by Nathan. He allowed us to check in early, at about 1 pm. We were exhausted after a long flight & his welcoming customer service was absolutely praiseworthy. Thank you so much for making our trip memorable. The hotel is in amazing prime historic location, in walking distance to Parliament, Senate, Basilica, National Gallery & so on. Breakfast in Feast + Revel restaurant was a feast, with a wide variety of delicious options to choose from. Thank you for providing us with comfort during or stay at your beautiful hotel!

I used to love staying at this location. It's a great hotel with professional and kind employees. However, I booked a reservation back in August for my birthday at the end of November. On November 1st, they charged my card for the entire stay. This was not noted in the reservation policy, on the app where I booked, or the email confirmation. I had up to 24 hours before the reservation to cancel and they still took the entire stay on November 1st. This hotel has never done this before and I've never seen a hotel do this before. I had to cancel the reservation as I need that money for bills and food, but it'll be at least 5 days until I receive that refund. Customer service was zero help. I'll never stay at a Hyatt again.

We had such a great stay at the Andaz Ottawa! The location is absolutely perfect, right in the heart of downtown with stunning city views. The suite room was awesome, super spacious with 1.5 bathrooms which made things really convenient for our family. Big shoutout to Sophia and her amazing team, everyone was so kind, knowledgeable, and professional. As Globalists, we really felt the warm welcome from the moment we arrived. Breakfast was tasty and everything just felt smooth and easy. Honestly, we felt right at home here. Check out my 7 years review in the below picture. Highly recommend if you’re visiting Ottawa. We’ll definitely be back!

I stayed here for four nights with my wife and kids. My experience was somewhat mixed. The room itself had everything on paper, but in reality it wasn't great. The highlights were a spacious living room, a separate bedroom with 2 queen beds and a kitchenette. That said, the room layouts and furnishings were not ideal. The living room was huge, but the bathroom, which was nice, was tiny. The kitchenette was very old and tired, and there was no dishwasher. The furniture in the living room was oddly uncomfortable to sit on. There was a balcony but it was so uninviting that we never used it. This is very much a 1970s-style apartment that feels odd by modern standards. Having the kitchenette was good in that it gave us a place to prepare breakfast, but a few more essentials would have been nice. For instance, many suite hotels provide paper towels/napkins to help you keep the place clean. This one doesn't. Service was a highlight, staff we encountered did their best to help. The housekeeper in particular did a great job. Location is OK, it's fairly central but you have to walk at least a couple of blocks to get to any shops/restaurants, and the downtown core is about a 15 minute walk away. You can park for free overnight, but one-hour limits kick in at 7 am (effectively giving you until 8 am to move your car). I did appreciate the space this hotel provides, but it reminded me too much of my student apartment to want to go back.

It's a three star hotel and that's exactly what you get. Staff is nice, location is 15min from downtown core. Kitchenette had dirty dishes in the pantries, AC ran loud and is located right above one of the beds. Cleanliness is less than desired, the rooms need maintenance/fixing, and shower had mold and mildew. Would not stay more than one night (which is what we did).

The fact that this hotel is in an older building does make some negatives. Overall, we appreciated that the suite-style room provided a full kitchen, much needed for our family. However, the room layout and sound-proofing wasn’t the best, and the washroom was really tightly spaced. The balcony was not glass-walled so in terms of views for our toddler, it was worse than no balcony. Cleanliness and quality of linen was there, so that was a positive. The paid underground garage was disappointing because it was so limited in space being in an older building and all. It was practically impossible to maneuver anywhere inside. Once you parked, your SUV trunk opened and it hit the ceiling. Not happy with being extra careful in a paid parking garage.

The room was spacious and included a nice surprise: a fully equipped kitchenette with a clean refrigerator, four-burner stove, pots, bowls, plates, and cutlery. Great for families or longer stays. However, the air conditioning unit hangs in the middle of the room and makes a terrible, loud rattling noise every time it runs—impossible to ignore and disruptive to sleep. Most disappointing was the irresponsible and misleading front desk service. We prepaid through Expedia. At check-in, the receptionist offered parking and quoted “$28 plus tax.” I immediately clarified: “So $28 plus tax is for parking for our full two-night stay?”
She clearly answered “YES.” We were later charged $63.26—$28 + tax per night. When I complained, Front Desk Manager Francisco Rodiles dismissed it entirely, saying the per-day rate was listed on Expedia. While that may be true, it does not justify staff verbally confirming a total price that was completely wrong. This caused wasted time, stress, and frustration. The manager refused any refund, apology, or accountability—only deflection. Bottom line: Good room size and kitchen setup, but ruined by noisy AC and shockingly poor front desk integrity. Not the reliability or transparency I expect from a downtown Ottawa hotel.

Perfect location for me and my family to participate to the annual Army Run in Ottawa. The hotel is well situated, 2 minutes walk from the starting line. The rooms are big and clean. We had a little issue with the room: since we were 3, we asked 2 separate double beds and in the end was 1 king + 1 sofa bed. In the end was ok but I appreciate that the hotel offered us a meal for the misunderstanding. I recommend this hotel and we will come back next year!

⸻ ⭐☆☆☆☆ (1 Star) We stayed at the Embassy Hotel in Ottawa last month with our 3-month-old daughter, and it was one of the worst experiences we’ve ever had. Our baby was bitten by bedbugs during the night — it was absolutely heartbreaking. After discovering the bites, we had to throw away all our baby’s clothes, bags, and even our own belongings, because we didn’t want to risk bringing bedbugs back home. We ended up spending a lot of money replacing everything, on top of the stress and sleepless nights this caused. This was completely unacceptable for a hotel that should provide a clean and safe environment, especially for families with infants. ⚠️ If you’re traveling with a baby or small children, please do not book this hotel. It’s not safe, and the management clearly doesn’t take hygiene seriously.

Cleaning staff needs to be more respectful. It’s the guests decision when to have the room cleaned, not theirs. Opening the door at 8am and/or being pushy about cleaning the room before guests are fully packed and have left the room is rude. It doesn’t matter when check out is, charge me extra, do not be pushy to get into the room to clean so you can go home.

I came in on Sunday for an overnight stay. I arrived around 9 pm and Mr. Abdul at reception was very welcoming and kind. I had a lot of questions and he patiently answered them all. The room was clean and neat, stocked with water in the fridge, tea and coffee. Breakfast was great, with fresh fruit, pastry, muffins, eggs, cereal and yogurt. There were lots of options for anyone to choose from. The byward blue inn was very homey and I thoroughly enjoyed my stay! If I’m back in the city, I’ll definitely come again.

More of a European style hotel. I will say it felt safe in a part of town that can be sketchy. The rooms are quiet & small but very clean. We had two twin beds in the room and each bed had two thin pillows. The small balcony was lovely - enjoyed our wine in the evenings. Small kitchenette was nice to have. The bathroom was clean and had lovely soap products. The showerhead provided a good amount of water pressure. The TV was good - with lots of different channels. There was an AC unit in the room that was loud and took up a considerable amount of space (but lovely to have foe thise hot nights). There is only one elevator, which was challenging in the mornings. Breakfast was fantastic - the best eggs and home fries, tasty fresh fruit, and a frothy machine for the coffee. There is underground parking but it is really tight - you couldn't park your pick up truck inside. The front staff were welcoming and took care of any questions. It was about a 7 to 10 minute walk to the Byward market and 20 minute walk to the Houses of Parliament. A decent alternative to chain hotels.

We were a little disappointed on arrival, it just looked a bit dated, perfectly clean, just a little old. Parking was easy and cheap. Our balcony on the 3rd floor was perfect and we ate a free, fantastic real homemade breakfast every day with real home fries, fresh fruit, sausage, bacon, or Canadian bacon every day! Never ate a lunch in our 5 night stay. Good fridge, plates, silver, comfortable queen bed. The entire place, room, balcony, breakfast and front desk staff were just superb!! The location is perfect and I would never stay anywhere else in Ottawa! What a great find!!!

The location is excellent especially if you are planning on exploring Ottawa such as the Byward Market and Parliament Hill areas. We were even able to walk to the football stadium by following the Rideau Canal. So you're in a good spot. The price is very good for where it is located. There is breakfast included which had a great variety such as eggs, bacon, hash browns, fruit, coffee and croissants. The room is nice with a kitchenette and a balcony although the bathroom is a little dated and the bed is not very comfortable, including the pillows so if you have room to pack your own pillow then you should. Overall I would recommend this hotel, we enjoyed our stay.

Absolutely adorable wee hotel. I opened the fridge to water, cream for my coffee, housekeeping were attentive to detail and I just love the balcony! Breakfast was included and awesome! I would certainly stay again! Thank you to our friendly hosts!

Loved being on the fist floor where our room went out onto the courtyard. Tables and chairs and a nice water fountain. It was lovely just to walk out onto that . Great location to Byward Market and Restaurants. Easy to walk to the areas of interest. Like Parliament Hill. Hotel has many rooms and the parking only has about 8 spots which are very tight and they are not easy to get into them. We only left the spot once to drive to Diefinbunker and when we got back the spot we had was not available. Only one left was one with a snowblower and my husband had to do a lot of manuvering to get into the spot. People with a SUV may have difficulty A suggestion I would put out there would to find another area to store snow blower and any other equipment sitting along the back wall of those spots. It may cause damage to a car trying to get into the spot. Not sure if people who work there are also using the parking?

Stayed one night while visiting. Great location and extremely walkable to many restaurants and shopping. The staff was top notch . Everyone we encountered was so kind and helpful. Rooms very nice and clean. They do have a small garage available with a few spaces for rent if you call ahead. Will stay again when we visit next!

It is was trash. The staff don’t show any care. They trapped 2 birds in the pool area and they keep trying to get out. There beds are hard and pillows too no blankets it’s a very thin sheet. Light flickers when you turn it on the latch for the door is gone the fridge is so small the curtains are coming off the wall and ripped there’s mold under the table there stains on the chairs it’s disgusting. There’s a knife inside the pool area. There’s like no lights in the hallway the bathroom is tiny the sink don’t work properly. The tub is not cleaned and full of hair. There’s stuff on the posters. The lamps are gross. There’s dirt and food crumbs in the head board. The walls are gross. There’s mold on the bathroom floors and it’s disgusting. There’s so many stains on the carpet. I do not recommend this place it’s not worth the money. It’s very unsafe.

Not a bad hotel but could use some improvements. The price was reasonable, the beds were very comfortable, and the breakfast was a typical continental breakfast; satisfying enough. The hotel also has a "water park" which is essentially a wave pool, water slide, hot tub and kiddie pool. It was nice to have this pool because it kept the children occupied at night. Unfortunately, they charge you 5$ per night to use it. The rooms were a little stuffy and needed to be aired out some, and the door was very difficult to open. I struggled with it and the electric key card every time I needed to open it. Staff was very friendly and helpful. I wouldn't stay there for a whole week, but for a couple nights it's worth going.

Line took a full hour to get through so we got our room at an hour late. Rooms were cleaned but slightly dank and somber, but overlook the water park which is a nice touch. The water park looks very deceiving compared to the photo, as it looks much nicer and much more lively in the photo. Water was good temperature and slide was enjoyable. Hot tub felt uncomfortable but the free amount of towels make up for it. Our toilet was clogged but fixed itself and was a decent sleep. Definitely worth it for the price, but not worth it if you are wanting to fully enjoy your stay.

Pool is only open like 10 to 15 hours per week. Not open Sunday. Had upset kids as Were not allowed in pool without lifeguards being present. There was rust stains in the tub. Housekeeping didn't check shampoo upon last check out there was none. Too late to call I was already in the shower when I noticed. Safe needed to be fixed by maintenance and the view....it was the rooftop and satalite dishes. Was mislead by reservations was told had to pay deposit upon check in and could pay for room upon check out. Had to pay deposit and room upon check in. Location was great within 10 to 15 minutes drive to all the things I had planned.

The hotel is undergoing renovations but it didn't affect our stay. The continental breakfast was an 8 out of 10. Great coffee. Great service. The wave pool was lots of fun. I love that the hot tub is adults only. It's not the fanciest hotel I've stayed at but very comfortable and very good for young families. I would come again.

Awesome little hotel. The pool area is really nice. It opens daily and is not super busy. The rooms are a hit run down. We visited as a family and I noticed some exposed wires near the AC unit, some broken hooks on the curtains, and a few unkempt areas in the bathroom. Generally those wouldn't be a problem, but traveling with a toddler makes those things much more noticeable. Overall it is a nice place to stay in. Even with the aforementioned, would definitely stay again there.

I was a bit worried to book my stay at Travelodge after reading the mixed reviews here! However, I would say that my stay turned out to be quite positive. Even though the place is a bit dated, the rooms were clean! Staff are great and are certainly doing everything in their hand to create a positive environment! The Waterpark was fun for the kids even though it was not fully functional! Breakfast is pretty basic but serves the purpose! I would say this place deserves a 4 star and it would be unfair to score them less! I appreciate the hard work and dedication of the people towards the customers! Will certainly stay there again!!

Location is great since it’s only a few blocks from downtown but away from most of the hustle and bustle. Staff was great especially the morning front desk staff and valet! They upgraded us to a suite since they could not provide us a room with two beds. The only complaint I would have is the musty smell that comes from the bathroom which was noticeable once we started settling into our room but that comes with older drainage pipes. The room and hotel was generally very clean and modern. We enjoyed our stay and would probably book again.

Pros: The lobby is absolutely gorgeous with a big skylight and a library. The staff were great, from the housekeepers to the front desk and the restaurant team. We had dinner the first night and the food was very good, drinks from the bar tender was great as well, thank you Brook! The room was cozy and clean, and I loved the bed and pillows. Cons: I wouldn’t consider this hotel luxury. The rooms are fine, but nothing really stood out. It was clean, but the lack of slippers in the room was surprising. Only one elevator was working, and it had water damage with a few broken lights, which felt a little creepy. What really stood out to me was how understaffed they seemed. I feel like we only saw two desk employees the entire stay. A tall gentleman who checked us in, very kind and helpful, but later we saw him parking cars as well. The young woman working the night shift at the front desk was back the following day, and then we saw her cleaning rooms in her suit!! It honestly looked like they hadn’t gone home. The housekeepers were also a bit loud in the morning when talking to each other in the hallways. I’m sure they did not mean to be rude, just louder than expected when you want to sleep in. Lastly, our room window faced the library. While it’s a beautiful view, it made me feel closed in, especially since the window doesn’t open for fresh air.

We had the pleasure of working with Rae and Charles during a wedding reception at The Metcalfe Hotel, and they were both absolutely fantastic! Rae, the food service lead, made sure everything was constantly replenished—our guests never had to wait or look for anything. The service was smooth, timely, and super professional. Charles, the bartender, kept the drinks flowing with ease and charm. Despite a steady crowd, no one ever had to wait long, and the guests really appreciated his friendly energy and efficiency. They both played a big part in making the evening seamless and enjoyable. Thank you for such outstanding service!

I had just 35 days to plan a wedding, and Matthew, Amanda, and the entire event team at The Metcalfe Hotel went above and beyond to make it all possible. From creating a custom menu to accommodating last-minute changes, they handled every detail with care and professionalism. The venue itself is simply exquisite—elegant, modern, and perfect for our special day. On top of this, the food was just so tasty! The team also ensured we had all the bridal rooms nearby and even surprised us with thoughtful, personalized gifts. I wholeheartedly recommend The Metcalfe Hotel for any special occasion. Their dedication and hospitality truly made our wedding unforgettable. Murielle and Yves

Overall, I loved this hotel. It is centrally located downtown with an awesome luxury feel. We did a suite and it was very comfortable. Staff was very friendly. My only complaint was that the room height was a bit low and dark but it is an older building and they made up for this with solid lighting and luxury amenities.

Lovely spot to stay. Right in the middle of everything you might need. Plenty of spots to eat, really close to parliament hill, museums, all sorts of historic sights. The room itself was really nice. They have Le Labo bath products which is crazy. My hair has never smelt better.

I just checked in, and the front desk gave me the key to someone else’s room. Not sure how that could happen but hope it doesn’t happen to you… There is a heat wave right now, and the A/C in the room can’t maintain a comfortable temperature. The gym is also very hot and humid, and there’s no water or towels available… The design with the inner courtyard is nice though!

I had an unfortunate experience at this hotel staying with family in February, in what I believe to be theft by a housekeeper. My sister and I were put into a room that had no where to hang anything. It appeared to be an accessibility room. We asked to be put into a room that had a proper closet. We were upgraded to a much nicer room without us requesting this. This room had turndown service, which I did not know existed. We were never informed that a housekeeper enters the room in the evening to turn down blinds and put out cups of tea. I had small Van Cleef earrings valued under $5,000 that I took with me on this trip. They were put in a jewellery pouch that is lined with velvet and zipped in my travel Tumi bag. This bag was on the same table that the housekeeper put out cups of tea on. We went out for the evening, and when I returned, I found out that someone without our permission entered the room. Although I was alarmed and it felt like a violation of privacy as I always deny housekeeping when travelling, and having never being told about turndown service, I tried to convince myself that it was fine. When I returned to Toronto, I opened the zipped pouch to find out that the earrings weren’t there. I felt confused and started second guessing myself if I took them. It never occurred to me, until months later that they could be stolen. They’ve never shown up. My mother called the hotel to report it and they of course denied it even though they have no evidence that it did not take place. I also filed a police report, but was told there is nothing that can be done if there is no direct video evidence of the theft taking place. I don’t make this statement of belief lightly. I solemnly believe that is it very plausible that the earrings were stolen by the housekeeper.

We had an excellent experience at this hotel over the May long weekend. The staff were all incredibly friendly, attentive and helpful. We really liked the text feature to make any requests during our stay. The rooms were beautiful and had everything you needed (including nice toilet paper instead of the standard thin scratchy kind!). The location is easy walking distance to many places, including Parliament Hill and Byward market. We would 100% stay here again on our next visit.

Le Germain was such an excellent hospitality experience. Everything we could have possibly needed was thought of and covered. They were approachable, kind, and warm-hearted. Getting to spend a weekend in my own city at such a lovely hotel was truly so luxurious. The rooms are beautiful, chique, and classicly styled. It’s the perfect place for a romantic getaway or a night away. If you want your girl to feel fancy as fuhhhhh and like you brought your A game to the anniversary game, you bring her here. She will be enamored 🤭

Le Germain is a beautiful hotel with excellent service from the moment you arrive. The front desk staff are very kind and polite, always ready to help with a smile. The doorman and valet are especially welcoming and go out of their way to make you feel taken care of, which adds a nice personal touch to the stay. The rooms are spotless, modern, and very comfortable, which makes relaxing after a long day in the city easy. The location is also perfect, with plenty of great restaurants, shops, and attractions within walking distance. The only reason I’m giving four stars instead of five is because our most recent visit was in a room facing the roof of another building and the room was a lot smaller than our first visit

From the second we walked in, we knew we were in for something special. My fiancée and I stayed in the Prestige Suite, and the room was absolutely gorgeous and took our breath away each time we turned a corner to see even more than we expected. Heated floors in the master bathroom, that's wild! It was quite an experience staying at La Germain, to say the least. The true standout though were the staff. I had made a special request during my stay to surprise my fiancée for her birthday, and not only did they accommodate it without hesitation, but they even went above and beyond to make sure our experience and entrance into the room felt elevated and one of a kind. Their kindness, attention to detail, and genuine hospitality transformed what was already a fantastic stay into something truly unforgettable, which I'm so grateful for. Being right in the heart of downtown/the market also, it made it so easy to get out and enjoy the city life. Coming back to our room after a long day made it that much more enjoyable too. Le Germain is more than just a place to rest - it’s a destination where you feel valued, pampered, and rich. I highly recommend Le Germain to anyone looking for an exceptional getaway!

We had a wonderful stay at Le Germain Hotel Ottawa. The staff was attentive and respectful throughout our visit. The room was beautifully designed, spacious, and offered a breathtaking view. The little touches in the room truly made all the difference. The hotel is perfectly located, close to everything we wanted to see and do, which made exploring the city incredibly easy. I highly recommend this hotel to anyone who values comfort, style, and attention to detail.

Very clean and nice rooms. All the bad reviews from 2-6 years ago are totally wrong. From the bad reviews everything changed, nothing was like it has been written by previous guests. We really enjoyed our stay, the valet service was really good and it was no problem getting stuff out of our vehicles anytime we wanted. The beds are really comfortable and big enough for two people. The mini-bar and accessories are really well stocked and thought trough. By far the best stay we had in Canada, will definitely come again

$5 tour is worth doing if you have a short time to visit but definitely could spend a whole day here! The cafe is affordable and the outside patio is a good break from the intense subject matter. The veteran's exhibit is a quiet place to contemplate in between learning about war as well. The building itself is a work of art along with the many pieces inside. Go downstairs to see the Viny Ridge plasters for sure and talk to others to gain insight!

After so many years living in the Ottawa Gatineau area I finally decided to visit this museum. I was very much surprised and impressed because I thought it might be a stale atmosphere because of the theme of the museum. I can honestly say it’s very well set up and very nicely organized. If you’re interested in the history of war, this is the place to come. 👍😎

The Canadian War Museum is one of those places that stays with you long after you leave. It’s not just a museum — it’s a powerful journey through Canada’s history, courage, and sacrifice. The moment you walk in, the atmosphere feels calm yet deeply emotional. The architecture alone tells a story, with every corner designed to make you reflect. Each exhibit is beautifully presented, combining personal stories, photos, artifacts, and multimedia in a way that connects you to the people behind the history. You don’t just learn about wars — you feel what Canadians went through. Couldn’t see The Memorial Hall. It’s also a great place for families; children love seeing the tanks, planes, and interactive displays. The museum is spotless, well-organized, and easy to explore at your own pace. The staff are welcoming and knowledgeable, always happy to share insights or answer questions. Whether you’re visiting Ottawa or live nearby, this museum is a must-see. It leaves you with a sense of gratitude and pride for those who served and a reminder of how precious peace truly is.

Great spot to visit on a rainy day. The exhibits are really well laid out and walking through them really felt like you were walking through a network of trenches during the First World War. This museum has lots of really interesting artifacts and war paraphernalia. My one critique would be that they should have a bigger more permanent exhibition dedicated to the minority groups that helped in the war efforts. For example “Force 136.” Otherwise, very much worth a visit if your are a history buff! You might want to give yourself half a day for a proper walk through because there is a lot of information.

The Canadian War Museum in Ottawa offers a powerful and immersive look into Canada’s military history, from early conflicts to modern-day missions. Its exhibits are well-designed, combining artifacts, multimedia, and personal stories that make the experience both educational and emotional. Visitors especially enjoy the impressive displays of tanks, aircraft, and weapons, though the museum can feel overwhelming due to its depth and emotional weight. Overall, it’s a must-visit attraction that inspires reflection and appreciation for Canada’s sacrifices and contributions in war... 🇨🇦

Huge and well curated museum. Separate sections for the main conflicts that Canada has been involved in. We spent several hours and weren't able to finish it all. Great exhibits and information explaining all the context. Cafe is very basic.

A great place to visit if you want to learn more about Canada’s war history. There are many weapons and artifacts on display that vividly tell the story of past conflicts. The environment is clean, spacious, and well-organized, making it an engaging and educational experience.

We came here to learn more about the indigenous cultures of Canada and for the children's museum. They have a great set up here, we were able to go to the children's museum right after getting our tickets to wear out our daughter a bit before going to the main museum. The children's museum is really interesting, much more than we had expected. It is really great that they have so many interactive and educational displays about different cultures around the world. Following the path from Asia, to Egypt to Mexico was a lot of fun. They have the room to rent marbles and other things to build as well. Definitely a must stop if you have kids. After she got a bit of her energy out we went upstairs to see the main exhibits. The long hallway with the mirrors telling the stories of places around the country was really interesting, a bit tricky to read, but very unique. The layout to walk through is fantastic. Walking through history from the indigenous communities, to the invasion from the French and British, to the modern day is so well laid out. Not too many interactive displays to keep our daughter entertained, but just enough. It was absolutely fascinating to basically walk through the history of Canada. Going downstairs to the great room/hall was incredible, the totem poles are enormous. Getting to see them in person and read about how the people carve them out was really impressive. I'm really glad we made the trip here and feel we got our money's worth.

What a great museum! I learned so much about Canadian history, with loads of surprises (and fun interactive features) throughout. I loved the layout, where on one side you wind through the history of Canada from ancient First Peoples to modern times. I loved learning about early French Canada and seeing Rocket Richard’s jersey. The other part of the museum was a massive First Peoples exhibit with buildings, totems and modern artwork. Super impressive. This museum was a great visit and would be perfect for families too.

I took my kids to the Canadian Museum of History and had a fantastic time. The whole place is well-kept, clean, and thoughtfully designed for families. There are plenty of clean bathrooms (always a plus with kids), a cafeteria, and even vending machines for quick snacks. The highlight for us was definitely the Children’s Museum inside — my kids absolutely loved it. It can get a bit crowded and overwhelming during the summer holidays, but still totally worth it. I’ve also been during the school year and found it much calmer. We also explored the main history exhibits, which offer a fascinating look at both old and modern Canadian history. Beautiful displays, engaging content, and something for all ages. Highly recommend it for a fun and educational day out!

🏛️ Canadian Museum of History A museum that feels less like “reading plaques” and more like walking through Canada’s story. The Grand Hall is stunning — totem poles, Indigenous art, and that sweeping window view of Parliament. Exhibits span everything from First Peoples to pop culture, with immersive setups that pull you in. Kid-friendly zones that don’t feel like an afterthought. Visitors tip: Start at the top floor and work down for the best flow — but expect crowds in the Grand Hall. Bottom line: A beautiful, layered look at Canada that sticks with you.

Very well laid out main exhibits and you're able to go at your own pace depending on your group. Younger children will enjoy the great hall and the children's museum side of things. Cafe on site with a good selection of snacks and great views from the gardens

Very cool and a must see museum in the Ottawa area. We came over because we wanted to see all the indigenous artifacts and what not. We were blown away at the totem poles and the sheer size of them. We watched a movie in there as well at their little theatre which was on creatures in the neighborhood and focused on their little lives. We spent 2 hours or so but we could have easily spent the whole afternoon there. 5/5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

The museum at Gatineau is a pleasant relaxing and informative spot, conveniently close to downtown Ottawa. It is engaging and well laid out, making it easy to navigate for a short visit. However, the admission fees can feel steep, particularly for groups of adults during these tough economic times. The gift shop is well stocked, but failed to account for any item that speaks to the fact that it is located in the Quebec Province and not Ontario. The reason they gave was that it is a national museum. Visitors want refrigerator magnets to remind them of this place. So, do not expect it from this location. Otherwise, beautiful place all together

A Fascinating Visit to the Canadian Museum of Nature ​My family and I recently had the pleasure of visiting the Canadian Museum of Nature, and it was a truly fantastic day out. Located in a striking "castle" that adds to its charm, the museum is an absolute gem for anyone interested in the natural world. ​The museum's exhibits are incredibly well-designed and captivating. We were all completely engrossed, from the towering dinosaur skeletons in the Fossil Gallery to the live creatures in the "Bugs Alive" and "Pacific Discovery Tank" exhibits. The Mammal Gallery, with its beautifully detailed dioramas, and the Bird Gallery were also huge hits. It's clear that a lot of effort has gone into making the displays engaging and educational for all ages. ​For families with children, this museum is a must-see. The interactive elements and the sheer wonder of seeing things like a complete blue whale skeleton make it a memorable experience for kids. There are plenty of hands-on activities that keep them entertained while they learn. It's a place where children's natural curiosity can truly be sparked. ​A word of advice: plan to spend a full day here, or even more if you want to see everything. The museum is much larger than it appears from the outside, with four floors of permanent galleries and various special exhibitions. We spent a good portion of the day exploring and still felt we could have used more time to fully appreciate each section. The history of the planet and its creatures is explained in such a clear and well-organized manner that you won't want to rush through it. ​ The Canadian Museum of Nature is a highly recommended destination for families. It provides a perfect blend of fun and education, and it's a place you'll want to take your time exploring. We left with a newfound appreciation for the incredible diversity of nature, and we're already looking forward to our next visit.

I recently visited the Canadian Museum of Nature and had an amazing time. The museum is well-organized, informative, and filled with fascinating artifacts and exhibits that appeal to both adults and kids. Each section offers something unique-from ancient fossils and minerals to wildlife displays and Indigenous stories that beautifully capture Canada’s natural history. What stood out most was how well the information is presented-clear, engaging, and easy to follow. You can tell a lot of thought and care went into curating each exhibit. The building itself is stunning, with a perfect blend of history and modern design. Overall, it was a fun, educational, and enriching experience. Definitely worth a visit if you’re in Ottawa or simply curious about the wonders of nature!

I visited the Canadian Museum of Nature in Ottawa not long ago, and overall it was a memorable experience — especially for anyone interested in natural history, fossils, and wildlife. The museum is housed in the stately Victoria Memorial Museum Building, which combines heritage architecture (stone, stained glass, carved details) with modern touches like a glass central tower added during renovations.  Walking through the galleries, you move through diverse themes: fossils and dinosaurs, mammals, birds, geology, marine life, and Arctic environments. The Fossil Gallery was a highlight — seeing dinosaur skeletons and ancient marine creatures up close gives you a tangible sense of deep time.  The Bird Gallery and Mammal Gallery also impressed me with their detailed dioramas and species variety.  I appreciated how many exhibits include interactive or “hands-on” elements: the “live” insect / invertebrate displays, touch stations, and immersive storytelling exhibits add energy to the space.  Also, temporary and feature exhibits (such as The Man Who Planted Trees) offer fresh perspectives and variety beyond the permanent galleries.  On the downside, when I was there the noise level rose in busier rooms, especially with children in tow, which made some exhibits harder to absorb fully.  I also found that a few sections seemed slightly dated or in need of refreshment to maintain visitor engagement.  I spent around 2½ to 3 hours exploring. For a casual visitor that’s enough to see the highlights; for someone keen on pausing at every exhibit, more time is justified. Overall, the museum offers a rich, educational, and often moving experience. If you’re in Ottawa, it’s absolutely worth a visit.

The butterfly flight was definitely the highlight-such a magical and calming experience! 🦋 Loved how friendly and welcoming the staff were throughout the visit. The museum perfectly blends architecture and nature, offering both beauty and learning in every corner. A must-visit spot for anyone who enjoys exploring science, wildlife, and art all in one place.

I just went today to go to the laid exhibits...the butterfly exhibit and the immersion "The Man Who Planed Trees" exhibit. Both were amazing. I will be going back in a few days to see all the free exhibits. The museum is amazing! All the staff were very friendly and helpful! I can't wait to see the rest of it!

I had so much fun at the museum. It wasn’t what I expected but exceeded my expectations for sure. Buying the tickets online makes your life so much easier. We were able to sign up to both the butterflies and man + trees exhibitions and it was surreal. I honestly would recommend it to everyone to have those visits this summer before it ends because it was so much fun. Take a look at the photos and videos below for more context and a sign for you to pay those tickets and see for yourself

There were some aspects of the museum that were incredible and very interesting such as the dinosaur exhibit and the blue whale, however some of the rooms were not very interesting or well done. There were some rooms that felt thrown together just to fill space such as the tree and arctic exhibits that was a quick walk through, but it is worth visiting for the other exhibits. It is easy to just go up and buy tickets so no need to buy in advance.

Very interesting and informative museum that was once used during cold war and has jot been used since the early 90s. It has level 4 underground, seems simple from outside but it will bring you to new dimensions.

The amount of Canadian history crammed into this facility is amazing. It’s extremely well laid out and very very informative. We learned a lot about the Cold War era from the Canadian perspective. I highly recommend this facility. The staff were very friendly and the price is quite reasonable.

I’ve visited some pretty unusual places before, but this one ranks near the top! The sheer scope of this “secret” facility — built in less than 18 months back in 1959 — is absolutely mind-blowing. The Diefenbunker offers a fascinating glimpse into Cold War history, and it’s incredibly well-preserved. Our tour guide, Graham, a retired CSIS IT professional, was a superb storyteller. His anecdotes, humour, and passion really made the experience come alive — the perfect guide for a place that was never supposed to exist! If you’re anywhere near Ottawa, this is a must-see.

This is a great activity. An amazing piece of Canadian history. More than a museum considering the facility was actually in service up until early 1990s. It is a huge complex and there lots to see, and get lost. I would recommend a guided tour, but planning enough time before or after to roam around on your own too.

Great museum, I've been coming to this area for decades and only last year found our how close the bunker was to us. If you like history museums then this one is a must see. Mostly intact and well preserved, it will take about 3 hrs to walk, see and read the contents of the 4 floors. Lots of free parking and you can go have an awesome lunch at the Cheshire Cat just down the road.

This is trip to the past to understand better today’s events. Exiting walk trough the rooms where could be made so important decisions. It has much information about Cold War and the world of those years. Great museum which has to be attended!

Absolutely awesome tour! The bunker is in a time warp and the guided tour was extremely insightful on how soldiers and high command dignitaries as well as commanders operated in the bunker. The technology of running air and water systems was out of this world for the era of time. I would highly recommend the tour and a must see when visiting the Ottawa region! 10 stars if I could give it!

This is quite the monument here in downtown Ottawa. I like coming here often on a nice sunny day and taking in the ambiance of this war memorial. Unlike others I don’t find Ottawa boring and it has lots to offer in terms of scenery and history. This is one such spot. 👍😎

Visiting The National War Memorial was moving experience. I came here on Canada day to visit Parliament Hill, and stopping by the memorial was an experience i can never forget during my Montreal visit. The two soldiers who stood in front of the memorial (see images below for reference) heightened the powerful sight further.

The National War Memorial is located at Confederation Square. It was designed by Vernon March and unveiled by King George VI in 1939 in honour of Canadians who served the Crown and those who gave their lives during WWI. The monument was later dedicated to those who served in the Canadian forces in all conflicts. It is touching and moving monument and wonderful tribute to those Canadians who made the ultimate sacrifice to ensure the freedoms that today's generation enjoy today. What you see is a 22 metre tall monument including a allegorical arrangement of two bronze figures atop a tall arch. Within the apex of the arch is a sculptural cluster of 22 bronze figures representing various military roles. It is a beautiful arrangement worth viewing from all sides. Reference to the various conflicts are found around the monument by way of listed years in which Canadian forces served. The monument is fronted by two ceremonial guard sentries as well as the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.

The monument is dominating the landscape with its height. We were lucky to catch a change of guard (we didn’t know the schedule) and was a nice experience.

The granite arch portrays bronze sculptures of World War One Canadian soldiers, sailors and airmen. It is also dedicated to those killed in the Second Boer War, World War Two, the Korean War, the War in Afghanistan and all conflicts in the past and those to come in the future. The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier lies in front of the memorial.

Visiting the National War Memorial was a powerful and moving experience. The setting is respectful and well-maintained, making it a fitting space for remembrance. What truly elevated our visit, however, was the brief but impactful interaction we had with a guide who took a few minutes to educate us on the history of Vimy Ridge. Though it was only a short conversation, the guide conveyed the significance of the battle with passion and clarity. They highlighted how Vimy Ridge became a defining moment in Canadian history—symbolizing unity, bravery, and national identity.

It's really important for Canada history, if you visit Ottawa, you should check it down.

Great place to visit. One floor only but packed with information. Has international money display and a neat interactive game to get you engaged during your visit at the museum!! Highly recommend and best of all it’s FREE!!! Shout out to staff!! All really nice and all smiles, willing to help ☺️

Very nice place to visit with family and kids. Information delivered in a fun and interactive way. Interesting games and activities to play. Would recommend to visit. Also its free, would definitely recommend!

I visited the Bank of Canada Museum as a traveller and really enjoyed it! The place is clean, well-organized, and free to visit. It’s fascinating to learn how money and the economy work in Canada through fun, interactive displays. Don’t miss the cool machine where you can design your own money — it’s so much fun! You can even email your creation to yourself as a souvenir. Highly recommended for all ages, especially if you enjoy creative and educational experiences

This FREE museum exceeded our expectations!! Not only were the staff friendly and helpful, the museum was curated so well! The interactive displays were so fun and very insightful! They had a little 5 minute show about the Bank of Canada which was a nice immersive experience. Overall, would definitely visit them again and really recommend to check out this museum if you’re in the area 💯

Great experience! You will learn more about the history of all kinds of money. I Recommend it for families. they have games, interactive screens, and you can create your own banknote just for fun! And it's free!

This museum is one of Ottawa’s interesting attractions that I definitely recommend visiting. It’s a small museum, but you can learn a lot about the evolution of banking. There are also fun and interactive activities inside that make learning more enjoyable. Overall, it was a really cool experience.

History of currency. A free museum. From ancient forms of barter and coins all on display to the most currect info on using electronic currency to pay. Hands on exhibit keeps o e interested to explore more.

Great experience! Very welcoming and friendly! From checking in, the staff were very kind and helpful. Thank you Bonvoy Marriott and Ms Grosjean for showing your appreciation! I travel all over the world and stay at multiple hotel brands, I would definitely recommend you to my friends, family and colleagues, I was very impressed by the professionalism and generous hospitality. The rooms were spacious, great view and loved the available amenities in the room. I look forward to future stays!

We stayed at the Delta in Ottawa September 26-29, 2025. The service was excellent, all the staff were super helpful, happy and kind. We rented e-bikes and they allowed us to store them securely in an underground parking storage space. The bed was comfy and room very clean. Bathrooms are a little small. There is a nice pool and sauna in the fitness area!

Very nice place to stay, room was clean and had a great view of the city. Hotel is easy to get too and a central location for my needs. The staff were amazing from check in to parking everyone was very friendly and professional, hadn’t had that kind of service in awhile. Plenty of underground parking and the valets were kind of enough to let me park out front while I ran some errands and checked out. Highly recommend this place

I would not recommend this hotel for business stays due to poor service reliability. During my visit, there was no hot water in the shower. Despite calling the front desk three times, the issue was never resolved — I was simply told to “keep the water running.” Even something as basic as room key activation required two trips to the front desk. If you’re booking for business travel where time and comfort are important, you may want to consider alternative accommodations.

Vacation for a week with Kids: Hotel is a great location - easy walking to all fun touristy stuff. Room Cleaning Staff - Top Notch - Our house keeper was incredible. Bell Hops - Also go above and beyond! Pool - Had floaty mats and basketball nets kids enjoyed - The pool deck gets pretty gross and not cleaned often. Gym - Excellent - Good selection and clean Kids play room - Fun - has ping pong and other games Front desk has board games you can use as well that we enjoyed. Club Lounge - Food was stale and boring - we stayed for a week and it was the same thing every day breakfast and dinner and most of breakfast stuff tasted day old and not fresh. Not much selection.

$303 for the night yet there were no coffee pods in the room. I did call the front desk they suggested I pick them up myself. Since my daughter was getting married I was a little busy. She had a lovely suite with full kitchen - but no cutlery, paper towel or tissues. I expected more for that price.

The staff was exceptionally friendly and I love their professionalism as well as lovely smiles. The rooms wew very clean and beds were very comfy. The location was really convenient and almost all attractions were walking distance. Good restaurants near by as well. I will definitely stay this hotel again when I visit Ottawa again!

Good value for what you pay. I stayed here for a week in Aug 2018 and the room definitely showed its age, though it was clean and the bed was comfortable. Hopefully rates won't rise too much once they finish renovations. Within walking distance to the downtown attractions and even a few across the river, and the many of the bus routes that run through downtown stop only steps away.

Seems like the price is fair given the location. The staff were very nice and accommodating. The hotel is showing some age though the elevator was out of order. The rooms layout was nice and the furnishings in good condition. The bathroom was maybe a 2 star though. It was sorry of clean with hair behind the for and around the tub. The fixtures had gaps and rust which brings the place down.

Fairly nice rooms, lots of space. Had a few other problems though. 1- The parking lot was under construction and so we had to park on the street (quite some distance away). 2- Even after specifically confirming on the phone, the hotel put us in a room with only one bed, even though we booked as three adults. They did resolve this at quite some difficulty to themselves, but we ended up in double beds instead of queens. Besides that the service was great and the location is excellent.

The hotel is a little outdated and the rooms are smaller than average. A couple of renovations can bring this place up to par. Staff was nice, they upgraded me to a king bed free of charge. The bed itself is very comfortable with good pillows. Parking is a bit expensive at 18$ and it is a very small parking lot. Overall, good sleep on the bed, but a tired hotel, no view, thin walls. Was okay for 1 night but wouldn't stay again.

I enjoyed my stay very much and would choose Radisson in the future. The reception desk employee was extremely helpful in recommending local attractions. The room was clean, the bed was comfortable, and the shower was perfect. If I could mention one small need for improvement, the hall paint on the second floor looked a little scuffed up in a couple of areas, but not a big deal at all.

Parking was awful. Cost 18.00 and had to park blocks away. Took some people from our team over an hour to get checked in. We booked a block of rooms at least 6 months ago four our team so we could be all together and they scattered us throughout the hotel. We paid the same price for a plain room as those who got a room with a fridge and microwave. The front desk people are not friendly at all. One good thing - the beds were very comfortable.

Rooms stink like older buildings. Parking is charged @ $30/night. Rooms feel are below mediocre. No complimentary water given in rooms. Dental kit wasn't available even on request. Staff is courteous and friendly. Food is good. For me, the room did not deserve the cost.