Top 10 Free Things To Do and Attractions in Gatineau

"Canada’s political centerpiece and the home of the city’s government buildings, Parliament Hill is distinguishable by its impressive gothic-style architecture, which dominates the downtown area overlooking the Ottawa River. Ottawa’s Canada Day celebrations are also centered around this landmark, as are the light and sound shows that take place in the summer and during the festive season. It offers free guided tours, which are a great way to learn more about the area’s history and familiarize yourself with the city’s importance in Canada’s cultural landscape."

"Parliament Hill is an impressive group of buildings that house Canada's government. Free tours are offered throughout the year and the Hill is also the setting for national celebrations, like Canada Day - a holiday when Ottawa really comes to life."

"Both the oldest and largest church in Ottawa, Notre Dame Basilica was built in 1841 and boasts two towering twin spires which can be seen from both the city center and Parliament Hill not far away. While its neoclassical exterior looks quite austere, its inside is a feast for the eyes with elaborate carvings and magnificent stained-glass windows wherever you look. Now preserved as a National Historic Site, the cathedral’s exquisite interior is home to hundreds of sculptures of religious figures with the carvings in its choir being particularly impressive."

"The oldest and largest church in Ottawa, the Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica needs to be photographed. Located on Sussex Street, the church is a prime example of Gothic Revival architecture. Head inside to photograph the gold gilded altar, stained-glass windows, and beautiful vaulted ceiling."

"While you’re in the ByWard Market you’ll be close to the Notre-Dame Cathedral, so walk on over and head inside. Unfortunately there was a wedding the day I tried to go in October, but I was able to get inside in May and it is stunning!. Definitely worth a look."

"The official residence of the Governor General of Canada, this grand estate evolved from stonemason Thomas McKay’s private villa, later reconfigured with new wings and, in 1913, a pedimented entrance engraved with a Royal Coat of Arms. Following the English landscape style, the building is surrounded by lush — and in this case, public — gardens. “I think of it as a picturesque park as much as a building,” Gagnon says."

"Rideau Hall, the official residence of the governor-general of Canada is open to the public and can be explored by taking free guided tours. You must explore the phenomenal and royal heritage gardens. The guided tours take you through the opulent Staterooms, tastefully done ballroom – the Tent Room and even know more about the Governor-General."

"An Ottawa landmark that features Regency, Norman Revival and Florentine Renaissance Revival architecture, Rideau Hall is out to impress. Along with the marvellous art and noteworthy cabinetry that fills the interior plus the gorgeous grounds; Rideau Hall is unquestionably Instagram-worthy. View this post on Instagram"

"Major’s Hill Park is a beautiful spot in downtown Ottawa with some of the best views of the city. This is one of my favourite places for photography because you can see Parliament, the National Art Gallery, Fairmount Chateau Laurier, and Notre Dame just by spinning around!. Major’s Hill Park is a very popular picnic spot."

"Perched atop of a high bluff overlooking the Ottawa River is the Supreme Court of Canada which lies right next to the city center. The highest court in the country, it was built between 1939 and 1945 with Queen Elizabeth herself actually having laid the first cornerstone. Thanks to its outstanding Art Deco architecture and close proximity to Parliament Hill, the court is very popular to visit with tours taking you all around its interior."

"Visitors are invited explore the building, which is notable for its architecture and art collection as well as to learn about the operation of the Canadian judicial system from tour guides, all of whom are law students. Your guide will explain legal issues of public importance are dealt with by the Supreme Court of Canada. If Court is in session, you may be able to sit in on the hearing of an appeal."

"This institution is the highest judicial level in the country, hearing 40 to 75 cases per year. Decisions from the 9 judges are final. No appeal is possible."

"Meech Lake is the city’s nearest lake and it is a great getaway. Home to not just one, but two beautiful beaches, O’Brien and Blanchet respectively, it’s an ideal summer spot for swimming, picnics, beach volleyball and more. As a special pilot project, open water swimming is also permitted at Meech Lake.Photo: WikiCommons"

"Hostess: deserves no stars, beyond rudeWaitress: 5 stars, very attentiveFood: 5stars, sushi was amazingStraight forward the hostess really put a damper o..."

"A post shared by Jessie Lynn (@jelynsa) on Sep 23, 2018 at 8:16pm PDT. Another best place to enjoy scrumptious brunch buffet when holidaying in Ottawa is Kochin Kitchen. It is well known for its mouth-watering South Indian delicacies."

"I reviewed here a year ago, and today made it my celebratory first dinner w friends in a yr+1/2. Food was a delight and everyone loved their meal."

"Got takeout, and it was some of the best sushi I've had in Ottawa. Definitely better than a place around Merivale & Baseline that I won't n..."

"Excellent sushi and tried both the gyozas for the first time which were delicious. Their house Kochu Roll is a must."