Introduction – Ottawa: A City Made for Photography
Ottawa is one of the most photogenic cities in Canada. From historic Parliament Hill to colourful murals, nature trails, waterfalls, and trendy urban streets, the nation’s capital offers endless opportunities for Instagram-worthy shots. Whether you're a visitor exploring for the first time or a local looking for fresh content, this guide highlights the best places in Ottawa to capture stunning photos all year round.
Let’s dive into the most Instagrammable locations across the city.
1. Parliament Hill – Iconic Views & Historic Architecture
No Instagram guide to Ottawa would be complete without Parliament Hill.
With Gothic architecture, sweeping lawns, and views of the Ottawa River, it’s the perfect backdrop for dramatic shots.
Best shots:
📸 Front lawn with the Peace Tower
📸 Sunrise or sunset with long shadows
📸 Winter: Parliament lit up with festive lights
2. Rideau Canal – Year-Round Photo Opportunities
The Rideau Canal, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is beautiful in every season.
Winter
The world’s largest outdoor skating rink makes for magical winter photography.
Summer
Kayaks, boats, and bridges create bright, colourful photos.
Top locations along the canal:
Corktown Bridge (rainbow bridge)
Bytown Museum area
Dow’s Lake
3. Major’s Hill Park – Best Views of Parliament & Château Laurier
This scenic park sits on a cliff above the Ottawa River with postcard-perfect views.
Why it's Instagrammable:
Parliament Hill in the background
Château Laurier’s iconic turrets
Flowers and greenery in spring and summer
It’s especially stunning during the Tulip Festival.
4. Fairmont Château Laurier – A Fairytale Castle in the Capital
The Château Laurier is one of Ottawa’s most photographed buildings.
Its castle-like architecture makes it look straight out of Europe.
Top angles:
From the locks at the Rideau Canal
From Major’s Hill Park
From the pedestrian bridge connecting the National Arts Centre
5. ByWard Market – Murals, Cafés, and the Famous "Ottawa" Sign
The ByWard Market is a treasure trove of Instagrammable spots.
Don’t miss:
🌈 Street art murals
🍁 Local cafés with aesthetic interiors
📍 York Street’s illuminated “Ottawa” sign
It’s perfect for colourful, modern lifestyle photos.
6. Nepean Point – Sunset Views Over the National Gallery
Recently redeveloped, Nepean Point now features walkways, platforms, and one of the best skyline views in Ottawa.
Great for:
🌇 Sunset photography
🌉 River panoramas
🏛️ National Gallery background shots
7. Gatineau Park – Instagram Heaven for Nature Lovers
Just minutes from downtown Ottawa, Gatineau Park is a goldmine for photographers.
Pink Lake
Vibrant turquoise water surrounded by dense forest.
Champlain Lookout
One of the best fall-colour spots in Canada.
Carbide Willson Ruins
Haunting stone ruins hidden in the forest — absolutely photogenic.
8. Arboretum & Dominion Observatory – Romantic & Peaceful Landscapes
The Arboretum offers rolling hills, old trees, and rustic pathways.
Best seasons:
🍂 Fall for colourful leaves
🌸 Spring for blossoms
🌅 Early morning mist
The nearby observatory adds a historic, vintage touch to photos.
9. Lansdowne & The Glebe – Trendy Spots With Colourful Backdrops
The Glebe is known for its boutique shops, charming homes, and cozy cafés.
Instagram favourites:
Black & white Lansdowne sign
The Aberdeen Pavilion (the “Cattle Castle”)
Street murals and funky storefronts
Perfect for lifestyle and fashion shots.
10. Rideau Falls – One of Ottawa’s Most Underrated Photo Gems
Rideau Falls features two twin waterfalls plunging into the Ottawa River.
It’s less crowded than other attractions, which means cleaner photos with fewer people in the background.
Best time to shoot:
🌇 Sunset
🌸 Spring runoff for dramatic water flow
11. Bank Street Murals – Street-Art Photography Paradise
Bank Street is home to many vibrant murals that make perfect backdrops.
Expect:
🎨 Colourful faces
🌈 Abstract patterns
🖌️ Giant animals and themed artwork
Great for bold, eye-catching lifestyle shots.
12. Westboro Beach – Golden Hour Perfection
One of the best sunset spots in the city.
Capture:
🌅 Silhouettes
🏖️ Lakeside views
🌊 Reflections on the water
It’s peaceful, scenic, and ideal for couples, portraits, or travel content.
13. Sparks Street – Pedestrian Street & Seasonal Installations
Sparks Street is full of seasonal photo opportunities.
Depending on the time of year, you’ll find:
🎄 Christmas lights
☀️ Summer patios
🎪 Festival installations
The European-style pedestrian layout adds charm to every shot.
14. The National Gallery – Modern Architecture & the Maman Spider
The National Gallery is one of the coolest architectural structures in Ottawa.
Its glass design creates dramatic lines and reflections.
Outside, the giant Maman spider sculpture makes for unforgettable photography.
Bonus: Seasonal Photo Spots
Tulip Festival (Spring)
Hundreds of thousands of tulips in full bloom — pure Instagram heaven.
Ottawa Christmas Market (Winter)
Twinkling lights, local vendors, and cozy holiday vibes.
Winterlude (February)
Ice sculptures + snow art = picture-perfect.
Tips for Getting the Best Instagram Photos in Ottawa
📸 Go early in the morning to avoid crowds.
🌅 Golden hour (sunrise/sunset) gives the best lighting.
☀️ Shoot on sunny days for vibrant colours.
📍 Explore side streets — Ottawa’s hidden gems are everywhere.
🎨 Use murals and architecture for creative backdrops.
Conclusion
Ottawa is an incredibly photogenic city with a mix of nature, history, art, and architecture. Whether you’re capturing sunsets, waterfalls, murals, or iconic landmarks, the capital offers endless opportunities to fill your Instagram feed with stunning content.
From Gatineau Park’s breathtaking landscapes to the colourful streets of the ByWard Market, these locations ensure your next photoshoot in Ottawa will be unforgettable.
