Cultural Surprises in the Capital
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Some of the lesser-known cultural attractions in Canada’s Capital Region
deserve a second look, and your itineraries to Ottawa would be enhanced
by a stop at one or more of the following:
Billings Estate Museum: This is Ottawa’s oldest house and was
the home of the Billings, one of the Ottawa’s founding families.
This heritage site showcases five generations of the family, and the
site also includes an historic cemetery, colourful flowerbeds and gardens,
and centuries-old pathways.
Currency Museum of the Bank of Canada: The history and evolution
of money over the past 2,500 years is traced in this museum. It
includes the most complete collection of Canadian notes and coins, as
well as early tokens such as shells, beads, and tea, all of which were
used prior to the acceptance of coins.
Rideau
Hall: As the official home for the Queen’s representative in Canada
(the Governor General), Rideau Hall is a magnificent tour stop.
Tours of the residence visit spectacular 19th century rooms, and depending
on the time of year, the staterooms are also included. Outdoor
tours of the gardens and greenhouses are a treat for any gardener.
St. Patrick’s Basilica: As the oldest English-speaking Catholic
parish in Ottawa, St. Patrick’s was founded in 1855 and named for the
patron saint of Ireland. (This explains why you’ll find shamrocks
in the most unexpected places!) The architecture and magnificent
interior of this basilica are well worth a visit.
For more info on this itinerary, contact:
| 1. Billings Estate Museum: |
1 hr, (613) 247-4830 |
| 2. Currency Museum: |
1 hr, (613) 782-8914 |
| 3. Rideau Hall: |
1 hr, (613) 998-7113 |
| 4. St. Patrick’s Basilica: |
1 hr, (613) 233-1125 |
