The attractions in Ottawa comprise an endless list. Don't know where to start? Parliament Hill, which overlooks the Ottawa River, is often the first choice as you can join any of the tours within the day and check out the House of Commons, the Senate, and the Parliament Library. After picking up a free booklet at the visitors' centre, stroll around the Hill grounds for an even better view.

The National Capital Commission hosts the Parliament Hill Sound and Light Show, a 30-minute film at the centre block of Parliament Hill. It is shown two times a night every day of the week; the bleacher seats are free.

How about other stately and historical spots? Visit the home of Canada's Prime Minister, 24 Sussex Drive, the Governor General's, Rideau Hall, or the official guest house of the government, 7 Rideau Gate.

Perhaps Ottawa's greatest pride is its large collection of museums (which have free admission on the first of July, Canada Day), galleries, and other historical landmarks, including the following:

• Arts Court
• Bank of Canada Currency Museum
• Bytown Museum
• Canada Agriculture Museum
• Canada Aviation Museum
• Canadian Museum of Civilization
• Canadian Museum of Nature
• Canadian Tribute to Human Rights
• Canadian War Museum
• National Archives of Canada
• National Arts Centre
• National Gallery of Canada
• National Museum of Science and Technology
• Peacekeeping Monument
• Royal Canadian Mint
• Tomb of the Unknown Soldier

Rideau Canal is a canal system that connects Ottawa to Kingston and uses portions of the rivers Rideau and Cataraqui. Today, only pleasurecraft can use the oldest continuously-operated canal system in North America.

While Gatineau Park isn't technically in Ottawa, it's only ten minutes away, right over the border in Gatineau. Check out Mackenzie King Estate, Pink Lake, King Mountain, Lusk Cave, its beaches, the many creatures that live there, and lots more.

Just west of Ottawa is Lanark County, the Maple Syrup Capital of Ontario. There are three very famous Sugar Bushes there; go find out how you get your maple syrup for breakfast! Best done in early spring.

The Central Experiment Farm found in Centretown is a vast, federal research lab for farmers and food manufacturers in Canada. The Canada Agriculture Museum, Dominion Arboretum, Dominion Observatory, Ornamental Gardens, and Fletcher Garden Wildlife are all interesting spots you can visit there.