3 day itinerary for Ottawa

Itinerary

Ottawa is a beautiful city with a rich history, stunning architecture, and plenty of green spaces. I’m excited to help you plan a delightful 3-day itinerary that’s senior-friendly and filled with delicious dining options. Let’s dive in!

## Day 1: Exploring the Heart of Ottawa

Morning:

• Breakfast at The SconeWitch: Start your day with a cozy breakfast at this charming café known for its delicious scones and hearty breakfast options. They have a lovely outdoor patio if the weather is nice!
• Parliament Hill: After breakfast, take a leisurely stroll to Parliament Hill. You can enjoy the beautiful grounds and take in the stunning Gothic architecture. If your friend is up for it, consider joining a guided tour of the Parliament buildings (check for accessibility options).

Lunch:

• Lunch at The Whalesbone (on Elgin Street): This seafood restaurant is known for its fresh, sustainable seafood. They have a lovely lunch menu with reasonably priced options. The atmosphere is relaxed and welcoming.

Afternoon:

• ByWard Market: After lunch, head to the ByWard Market area. It’s a vibrant neighborhood filled with shops, galleries, and local artisans. You can take your time exploring the market, and there are plenty of benches to rest if needed. Don’t forget to check out the famous BeaverTails pastry!

Evening:

• Dinner at The Keg Steakhouse + Bar: For dinner, enjoy a classic meal at The Keg. They offer a variety of steaks and seafood, and the ambiance is perfect for a nice evening out. Make sure to make a reservation if you can!

## Day 2: Culture and Nature

Morning:

• Breakfast at Café My House: This quaint café offers a delightful breakfast menu with a focus on local ingredients. The atmosphere is warm and inviting.
• National Gallery of Canada: After breakfast, visit the National Gallery. It’s home to an impressive collection of Canadian and Indigenous art. The building itself is a work of art, and there are elevators for easy access.

Lunch:

• Lunch at The Green Door Restaurant: This vegetarian restaurant is a hidden gem! They offer a buffet-style lunch with a variety of healthy and delicious options. It’s a great place to refuel.

Afternoon:

• Rideau Canal: After lunch, take a leisurely walk along the Rideau Canal. If the weather is nice, you can enjoy the beautiful views and maybe even spot some ducks! There are plenty of benches along the way for resting.

Evening:

• Dinner at The Senate Tavern: This casual spot offers a variety of dishes, from burgers to pasta, at reasonable prices. It’s a relaxed atmosphere, perfect for winding down after a day of exploring.

## Day 3: History and Relaxation

Morning:

• Breakfast at The Breakfast Bistro: Start your day with a hearty breakfast at this local favorite. They have a great selection of breakfast classics.
• Canadian Museum of History: Cross the river to Gatineau and visit the Canadian Museum of History. It’s a fascinating place with exhibits that showcase Canada’s past. The museum is very accessible, and the views of the Ottawa skyline from the museum are stunning!

Lunch:

• Lunch at Le Café (inside the museum): Enjoy lunch at the museum’s café, which offers a variety of options with a lovely view of the river.

Afternoon:

• Jacques-Cartier Park: After lunch, take a stroll in Jacques-Cartier Park, which is right next to the museum. It’s a beautiful park with walking paths and plenty of green space to relax.

Evening:

• Dinner at The Olde Forge Restaurant: For your final dinner in Ottawa, head to this cozy restaurant known for its homey atmosphere and delicious comfort food. It’s a great way to end your trip!

Tips:

• Transportation: Consider using public transit or rideshare services to make getting around easier, especially if walking long distances is a concern.
• Rest Breaks: Don’t hesitate to take breaks throughout the day. Ottawa has many lovely parks and benches where you can relax and enjoy the scenery.

I hope this itinerary helps you and your friend have a wonderful time in Ottawa! Enjoy the sights, the food, and the company! If you have any other questions or need adjustments, feel free to ask!