So many ways to mark Canada’s 150th birthday Million of dollars poured into celebratory events in capital city of Ottawa
This year’s set to be pivotal for Ottawa, with millions of dollars - and gallons of imagination – being poured into the city’s celebrations to mark Canada’s 150th anniversary as a self-governing federation.
Public spaces will come alive with dance performances, light shows and ‘visual stunts’ before the main events in July, when Alexandra Bridge will be closed for a giant picnic. A new subway system is set to open in 2018, but first, as part of the celebrations, the underground space has been transformed into ‘The Time Tunnel’, where visitors will journey into a different era via multimedia installations.
Organisers expect an additional 1.75 million people will visit Ottawa during 2017, but don’t worry if you can’t make it for the celebrations – the hope is that their legacy will live on, giving the city’s artistic and creative sides a chance to shine.
Keen to add Ottawa to your wish-list? Here’s our guide to the capital city with a smalltown feel and big promises ...
WHERE TO STAY
ARC Hotel in downtown Ottawa is ideally located for anyone hoping to navigate the city by foot or bus, especially if you’re looking for a touch of class and style without breaking the bank. Situated an easy 15-minute stroll away from key hotspots like Parliament Hill and ByWard Market, and many of the city’s top museums, you’ll be well placed for exploring.
Rooms are contemporary and spacious with huge, comfy beds and stylish white bathrooms, plus there’s a gym and cool-yet-cosy bar area, where you can sip Canadian wine and rest those tired feet after a day of sightseeing – or enjoy a cocktail or two before heading out for the night. Complimentary hot drinks in the lounge area are a nice touch; make yourself cosy with a cuppa while you plan the day’s itinerary. For a reasonably sized-hotel (there are 112 rooms and suites), the breakfast menu and coffee has a pleasing boutique feel, with fresh and tasty food and no crusty buffet dishes!
Rooms from £82 (CAD 139) per night, based on two adults sharing. Visit www.arcthehotel.com
WHERE TO EAT
Ottawa’s big on food and you can’t really go wrong if you head to the ByWard Market region. Choose from an endless menu of pizza toppings at Fiazza Fresh Fired (fiazza. ca) on Murray Street (known as ‘gastronomy alley’ due to the extensive mix of eateries). Then, for dessert, head to dreamy ice-cream parlour Mantovani 1946. The awardwinning ‘Kingdom of two Sicilies’ pistachio-based flavour is to die for.