Canada’s capital is rich in intriguing sites, landmarks, and events. Some of these are widely known, while others are lesser-known gems, but all are worth discovering.
Let I Ottawa guide you through some of the most fascinating facts about Ottawa. You might find something surprising and delightful along the way.
Top Facts Everyone Should Know
The name “Ottawa” originates from the Algonquin word adawe, meaning “to trade.” This aptly characterizes a city that has always been a hub of commerce.
The Capital of Canada
In 1857, Queen Victoria chose Ottawa as the capital of Canada. Before this, Kingston, Ontario, served as the capital. Other cities like Toronto, Montreal, and Kingston also vied for the title, as they were more developed at the time. However, Queen Victoria made the unexpected choice of Ottawa for several reasons:
- Its location between Montreal and Toronto.
- Its position on the border of English-speaking and French-speaking Canada.
- Its strategic distance from the American border, which made it safer from potential attacks compared to Kingston.
The World’s Largest Skating Rink
The Rideau Canal transforms into the world’s largest skating rink every winter. Residents and visitors alike lace up their skates and glide along this iconic canal. Often described as a “Canadian moment of joy,” skating on the Rideau Canal is a must-try experience.
To ensure safety, the ice is thoroughly inspected, and areas with unstable ice are closed off.
Famous Tulips: A Gift from the Netherlands
Ottawa is home to over 300,000 tulips, thanks to a historic gift of 20,000 bulbs from Dutch Princess Juliana during World War II. This gesture of gratitude—she gave birth to her daughter in Ottawa—sparked the city’s reputation as the “tulip capital.” The annual Canadian Tulip Festival draws tourists from around the globe every May.
Quick Facts About Ottawa and Its Residents
- Climate: Ottawa is the seventh-coldest capital in the world, experiencing four distinct seasons. Summers can reach up to 33°C (average 25°C), while winters can plunge to -25°C (average -10°C).
- Demographics: Ottawa is one of Canada’s youngest cities, with about half its population under 35.
- Museums: The Canadian Museum of History is Canada’s most visited museum, and Ottawa boasts over 14 museums in total.
- Festivals: The city hosts more than 35 festivals annually, including the youngest, the Tulip Festival, each May.
- Unique Accommodation: Visitors can stay in a hostel that once served as a 19th-century jail.
Unique Facts About Ottawa You May Not Know
Secret Underground Bunker
During the Cold War (late 1940s to 1989), Prime Minister John Diefenbaker commissioned a massive underground bunker in Carp, 30 km from downtown Ottawa. Built in 1959, it took two years to complete.
While it was never used as intended, the site, now called the Diefenbunker Museum, offers a fascinating glimpse into Cold War history.
Parliament Buildings
Did you know that a devastating fire nearly destroyed Ottawa’s Parliament Buildings in 1916? The fire, which began in a wastepaper basket, quickly spread through the predominantly wooden structures. Only the Parliamentary Library survived, thanks to a quick-thinking librarian who closed the fire doors in time.
Today, the library stands as a visual reminder of the past, appearing older than the surrounding structures.
The Peace Tower
Until 1970, the Peace Tower was Ottawa’s tallest building. Strict regulations prevented anything taller from being constructed, ensuring nothing would overshadow this iconic landmark. The tower features a massive clock and an observation deck, making it a must-see.
The First BeaverTails Shack
In 1980, the first BeaverTails stand opened at a local fair in Ottawa. Located at the historic ByWard Market, locals lined up to try these quintessential Canadian pastries. The chain has since expanded far beyond Canada, with locations offering this classic winter treat internationally.
The “Maman” Sculpture
Located outside the National Gallery of Canada near Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica, this sculpture by French artist Louise Bourgeois depicts a giant mother spider protecting her 32 marble eggs. This captivating artwork symbolizes motherhood.
Château Laurier Furniture and the Titanic
A surprising connection ties the Château Laurier hotel to the Titanic. Charles M. Hays, the hotel’s owner, commissioned furniture for the hotel’s dining room, which was being shipped aboard the Titanic. Tragically, Hays perished in the sinking, along with the furniture.
Legend has it that Hays’s spirit haunts the hotel, which opened just 12 days after his death.
The Canadian Flag on the Peace Tower
The Canadian flag atop the Peace Tower is changed daily. Residents can apply to receive one of these flags for free, but there’s a catch: the waitlist is over 100 years long. Families often reserve spots for their youngest members to carry on this beloved tradition.
Ottawa’s unique charm lies in its mix of rich history and modern vibrancy. There are countless stories and facts to explore, ensuring that anyone who loves this picturesque city will always discover something new.