I took the quickest 3 day trip to Ottawa earlier this month. It was certainly unexpected after just returning from Europe, but a close friend had recently moved there and was getting married, so I knew I needed to make the trip to celebrate the day with her. 

Logistically, while Ottawa is only a 5-hour drive from Toronto, I opted to take the train instead, which trimmed an incredible 30 minutes off the commute lol. Flying would have taken just over an hour and honestly I think I would prefer that if I ever go again. However, I was excited to have my first VIA Rail experience. The train itself didn’t disappoint as the seats were comfy and it was easy getting to and from the stations. It was just the speed, or more correctly, the lack of speed which made it feel like a much longer journey. I think I’ve been spoiled by bullet trains and general high speed trains in Asia and Europe. I mean, how do you take a train for 4.5 hours and still be in Ontario?? I was also sitting near the front of the train on the way back and literally at every crossing it would sound the horn. (@_@)

Anyway, Ottawa did end up surprising me in a better way than the trains did. Once I arrived at Ottawa Station, I was able to cut across the parking lot and get on the O-Train at Tremblay Station. Then it was just a few stops to get into downtown Ottawa. Both the trains and the city itself were much cleaner than I expected. It wasn’t crowded at all even though a lot of students were starting the new school year at uOttawa. 

Since I got to Ottawa earlier than my check-in time, I decided to stop by the Notre Dame Cathedral as it was open until 4pm that day. It was such a nice walk to the cathedral and there were so many things to see on the way. After going inside the cathedral, I went across the street and took photos outside the National Gallery, where one of Louise Bourgeois’ giant spiders is on display. 

Coming back I cut through Major’s Hill Park and saw the Rideau Canal. There was actually a boat passing through so it was cool seeing the locks in action. I also walked past the Fairmont Chateau Laurier and saw the National War Memorial. I really liked how there were so many public spaces and parks in Ottawa that are easily accessible on foot.

Afterwards I finally checked-in at my hotel. It was my first time staying at a Sonder property and while it was a hassle making the booking initially online (there was a glitch in their system accepting my payment), I really enjoyed my stay there. I was able to access my room using the remote key through their app and it also came fully furnished with a kitchen. The cost was actually cheaper than a regular hotel room, so I would totally consider staying at one again. 

That evening I walked over to Byward Market and had a quiet dinner at Giulia. It was a bit chillier the first day, so since I didn’t have other plans, I turned in early and was able to take a nice bath to get myself ready for the wedding the following day.