Rogers Centre Ottawa Experienced at hosting events of all sizes, Ottawa, Canada’s capital, is a place where delegates often come early and stay late to make the most of the city’s diverse experiences.
Getting to (and around) Ottawa is seamless for meeting attendees. Ottawa International Airport (YOW) offers direct connections across Canada, the U.S., as well as key international hubs like London and Paris, with expanded service from Air France and Air Canada. Once on the ground, attendees can reach downtown in about 30 minutes via the O-Train.
Ottawa’s compact, walkable downtown places hotels, venues and attractions within steps of one another, while a fully accessible transit system ensures all attendees can navigate the city with ease.
Indigenous Experiences & Festivals
Ottawa offers delegates opportunities to engage with Indigenous culture through local attractions, tours and events that celebrate the stories, traditions and living heritage of First Nations, Inuit and Métis communities.
Ottawa is situated on the unceded and unsurrendered territory of the Anishinabeg Algonquin Nation, a place of gathering, stewardship and cultural vitality since time immemorial. The city’s name comes from the Anishinaabemowin word “adàwe,” meaning “to trade,” reflecting the region’s long history as a hub for commerce and connection.
Each spring, the Odawa Native Friendship Centre hosts the Annual Traditional Pow Wow, opening the season with dancing, drumming, singing, traditional foods and artisan vendors. The event is free and welcomes all ages, offering delegates a firsthand experience of Indigenous culture.
Signature events throughout the year, like the Ottawa Jazz Festival, Canadian Tulip Festival and Gatineau Hot Air Balloon Festival, further enrich the conference experience.
Ottawa’s vibrant festival industry and year-round calendar of events make it a compelling destination for delegates. These experiences enrich conference programs while supporting the local economy and showcasing the city’s dynamic cultural scene.
History, Culture & Performing Arts
As the country’s capital, Ottawa is home to landmarks and monuments that celebrate Canadian history. Among the highlights are the Parliament Buildings and the Rideau Canal, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Ottawa also boasts seven national museums and other local museums and galleries that allow visitors to gain a deeper insight into Canadian history and culture. The Canadian Museum of History is Canada’s most visited museum and home to the world’s largest indoor collection of totem poles.
Fans of performing arts can experience world-class shows at the National Arts Centre, the only bilingual, multidisciplinary performing arts centre in Canada that offers events in French and English, including a dedicated Indigenous Theatre Department.
“Ottawa is a destination where you can mix meetings with memories,” says Stephanie Seguin, Vice President, Sales, Business & Major Events. “If your delegates’ hearts belong to culture and the arts and if they’re into heart-pounding adventure in the great outdoors, they’ll have a memorable time in Ottawa.”
Outdoor Adventures & Active Experiences
Wherever you are in Canada, the Great Outdoors is never far away — and Ottawa is no exception. The city is an ideal base for conference delegates to enjoy nature in the middle of the city, whether seeking peaceful outdoor escapes or energizing, adventure-filled activities.
The region offers over 800 km of scenic cycling paths, with the picturesque Gatineau Park popular for both hiking and mountain biking. On the Ottawa River, delegates can try white-water rafting as a teambuilding activity or opt for more relaxed stand-up and seating paddling experiences.
In winter, delegates can enjoy cross-country and downhill skiing, or skate at one of the many outdoor rinks — including the Rideau Canal Skateway, the world’s largest outdoor rink.
Adrenaline seekers can tackle Canada’s highest bungee jump, or soar over the Ottawa River and Gatineau Hills on a zipline.
Ottawa blends urban appeal with diverse outdoor adventures, offering culture enthusiasts, nature lovers and thrill-seekers experiences that leave lasting impressions for delegates.
For more information, visit ottawatourism.ca/en/business-events, or learn how the Ottawa Tourism team can help you secure and deliver exceptional business events by contacting the team.