🏛️🍁 A Weekend in Ottawa: ByWard Market & Parliament Hill Adventures

Finally, a weekend without work! Thanks to Doors Open Ottawa, we explored two iconic spots: Parliament Hill and the bustling ByWard Market—perfect for a family outing. 🚗✨ 🛍️ ByWard Market: A Foodie’s Mixed Bag Vibe: Lively but compact, with vendors selling artisanal goods, flowers, and maple-themed treats. 🌼🍁 Hits & Misses: 🌟 Daldongnai Korean Restaurant: A must-try! We dined at their Chinatown branch—authentic flavors, generous portions. 🍜🔥 🍦 Xiaohongshu-Recommended Ice Cream: Tasty but not mind-blowing. 🍪 “Obama Cookie”: A枫叶-shaped treat from the shop the former president visited. Too sweet for our taste, but a fun photo op! 📸🍂 🚗 Parking Tip: Sunday parking nearby is free, but spots fill quickly—arrive early or embrace the hunt! ⏰🅿️ 🏛️ Parliament Hill: Construction Zone, Zero Stress Surprise Access: Despite renovations, visitors can freely wander the grounds. No guards at the entrance—just friendly staff and volunteers. Inside Tour: Book a free guided visit in advance! Our kids loved the historic halls and interactive exhibits. 📚 Fun Fact: In China, this would be a 5A-level attraction—here, it’s a laid-back public space. 💡 Pro Tips for Visiting Doors Open Ottawa: Check the schedule for exclusive access to embassies and historic sites (our next post!). 🗝️🏰 Market Eats: Skip the generic sweets—head straight for Daldongnai! 🍱💛 Parliament Photo: Capture the Gothic architecture at sunrise for golden-hour magic. 📸 Ottawa’s charm lies in its blend of grandeur and simplicity. Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or a curious traveler, these spots offer a taste of Canada’s heart—with a side of maple-flavored quirk. 🍁🎉 #ByWardMarket #OttawaTravel #FamilyAdventures #CanadianLife