Attractions
Parliament Hill
Parliament Hill in Ottawa is a place for decision-making, but also a place for people. Visitors can tour the buildings, watch Parliament in action, and enjoy ceremonial spectacles such as the Changing of the Guard ceremony. There are three buildings making up Canada's parliament complex. The centre block with its distinctive Peace Tower houses the chambers of the House of Commons and the Senate. Visitors can watch either chamber in action, take a tour of the building, and climb the Peace Tower for a view of the capital city region. The historic east block contains the restored offices of Canada's first prime minister, Sir John A Macdonald, and other early statesmen. Tours are offered of these historic rooms and visitors can also interact with historical characters from the period. The west block houses the offices of members of parliament and are not open to the public.
Telephone: (613) 996 0896
Opening time: Changing of the Guard daily from 9.45am (June to August)
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Canadian Museum of Civilisation
One of dozens of museums in Canada's capital region, the Museum of Civilisation is one of the most fascinating with its artifacts on display including interesting things such as the world's oldest known boat, several mummies, and the story of the 'bog people' of north-western Europe. The museum celebrates the diversity of humankind and showcases the achievements of cultures, past and present, using not only exhibits but live performances, giant screens and animations. The complex incorporates the Canadian Children's Museum, Canadian Postal Museum, an IMAX Theatre and a restaurant.
Address: 100 Laurier Street, Gatineau
Telephone: (819) 776 7000
Website:www.civilization.ca
Opening time: Daily 9am to 6pm (May to 9 October); 9am to 5pm (10 October to April). Museum closes at 9pm on Thursdays.
Admission: Museum: C$10 (adults), C$4 (children); IMAX: C$9.50 (adults), C$7 (children); Combination: C$17 (adults), C$10 (children). Free on Thursdays 4pm to 9pm, half price on Sundays
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Gatineau Park
Gatineau Park is a giant wedge of land measuring 363 sq km (140 square miles) to the northwest of Canada's Capital Region. It is a recreational haven for locals and visitors alike, and contains many features of interest. The Luskville Falls are inspiring; the Lusk Cave made of marble can be explored with a hard hat; the King Mountain Trail has ten observation points and takes an hour to complete; the Mackenzie King Estate, a 231-hectare landscaped space in the heart of the park, was the summer residence of William Lyon Mackenzie King, Canada's 10th prime minister.
Address: Gatineau Park Visitor Centre, 33 Scott Road, Chelsea
Telephone: (819) 827 2020
