Ottawa Pictures

Winter in Ottawa is chilly, but if you can brave the cold, you'll be rewarded with snow-covered scenes like this one, featuring Parliament Hill. Getty Images

Opened in 1832, the Rideau Canal is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the oldest attractions in Ottawa. Ottawa Tourism Flickr

Recent visitors said fall is one of the best times to visit Gatineau Park thanks to the gorgeous display of autumn foliage. Ottawa Tourism Flickr

Named after Rideau Canal-builder, John By, this vibrant market is the place to go for a quick snack. Radius Images Getty Images

The ByWard Market is surrounded by restaurants and pubs, making it a popular place for an evening out on the town. Vince Alongi Flickr

Ottawa is the seat for both houses of the Canadian Parliament. Ottawa Tourism Flickr

This beautiful cathedral is the seat of Ottawa's archbishop. Naeem Jaffer Getty Images

Every spring, Ottawa erupts with fields of blossoming flowers. If you want to catch this gorgeous scene, visit during the Canadian Tulip Festival in May. Meng He Getty Images

The National Gallery of Canada is a must-see attraction for art aficionados, beloved for its collections and striking architecture. Ottawa Tourism Flickr

Among the Canadian War Museum's more than 3 million artifacts, it houses artillery, uniforms, medals, documents, sound and visual recordings and rare vehicles. Marie-Louise Deruaz Courtesy Canadian War Museum

Located across the river from downtown Ottawa, the massive Gatineau Park is the perfect place for hiking. Saffron Blaze Getty Images

You'll find this quaint history museum near the mouth of the Rideau Canal. Ottawa Tourism Flickr

Every winter, Ottawa's beloved Rideau Canal is transformed into a massive ice rink. Ottawa Tourism Flickr

A favorite Ottawa snack, Beaver Tails are not what their name suggests. Instead, they're large discs of fried dough slathered in the topping of your choice. Lucas Richarz Flickr

Every February, Ottawa celebrates its colder climate with outdoor activities, special performances and plenty of hot cocoa during the annual Winterlude Festival. Ottawa Tourism Flickr

The Canadian War Museum's exterior is just as significant as its interior. The building was designed by Raymond Moriyama, one of the thousands of Japanese-Canadians imprisoned during World War II. Harry Foster Courtesy Canadian War Museum

Welcoming more than 1.2 million people annually, the Canadian Museum of History is one of the country's most-visited museums. Ottawa Tourism Flickr

If you're in Ottawa on Canada Day (July 1), expect downtown streets to be closed and celebrations to last all day. Fireworks, which can be seen from various points downtown, start around 10 p.m. Ottawa Tourism Flickr

You'll spot these patriotic cookies at ByWard Market, especially around Canada Day (July 1). Ottawa Tourism Flickr

The Canada Aviation and Space Museum is home to the country's most comprehensive collection of vintage aircraft, which includes more than 130 artifacts and aircraft from both military and civil service. Ottawa Tourism

From late June to late August, catch the elaborate Changing of the Guard at 10 a.m. every morning on Parliament Hill. For the best views, arrive at least 15 minutes early. Ottawa Tourism Flickr

When you're out exploring Ottawa's diverse dining scene, don't forget to indulge in one of Canada's signature dishes, poutine (french fries topped with cheese curds and gravy). Fudio Getty Images

At 321 feet, the Peace Tower is one of the most prominent structures on Parliament Hill. According to the Canadian government, it's also the most widely recognized symbol of Canada after the flag. Ottawa Tourism Flickr