Industry and International Expertise As Canada’s capital and a prominent G7 city, Ottawa boasts an exceptional pool of potential keynote and session speakers. The city is home to influen- tial government policymakers, leaders of national associations and a thriving international diplomatic community. Additionally, Ottawa is rich in subject matter experts across diverse fields, including autonomous vehicles, health and life sciences, cleantech, aerospace, defense and e-commerce. HERITAGE HOTSPOTS Elevate your VIP reception or gala event by hosting it at one of Canada’s iconic cultural landmarks, many of which offer breathtaking views of Parliament Hill and the Ottawa River. The National Arts Centre features the elegant, light-filled Al Zaibak Lantern Room, while the National Gallery of Canada provides a stunning backdrop for receptions, concerts and lectures, surrounded Rogers Centre Ottawa Awarded “World’s Best Convention Centre 2020” by the International Association of Conference Centres (AIPC), Rogers Centre Ottawa (formerly Shaw Centre) is a LEED Gold-certified convention facility offering 192,000 sq. ft. of flexible meeting space. The venue is within walking distance of more than 6,000 hotel rooms, has direct indoor access to The Westin Ottawa hotel and offers panoramic views of historic Parliament Hill, the Rideau Canal UNESCO World Heritage Site and numerous national landmarks. rogers-centre.ca HANDS-ON CREATIVITY The Ottawa Art Gallery’s ARTivity program provides engaging activities designed to help participants confidently express their ideas. One example is the Expanded Landscapes program, which examines the impact of climate change on the landscapes famously depicted by Group of Seven artists. 5 MUST-DO EXPERIENCES 1: The ByWard Market District, situated in the heart of downtown, is Ottawa’s oldest neighbourhood and home to a historic, year-round public market, diverse restaurants, live music venues, cocktail bars, coffee shops and artisan boutiques. 2: During winter, skate (or walk) on the Rideau Canal Skateway, a 7.8-km frozen trail and UNESCO World Heritage Site that winds through the national capital. 3: The pristine beauty of Gatineau Park is the perfect destination for outdoor adventure, whether exploring Lusk Cave, rafting, hiking, biking or snowshoeing along multi-use trails. 4: The folks at Brew Donkey will guide your group on a curated tour of Ottawa's best beverage makers, whether you choose breweries, brewpubs and craft beer bars, or distilleries and wineries. 5: When it’s time to recharge, Ottawa offers a wide range of wellness options to choose from. In the heart of the ByWard Market, Holtz Spa and York Street Spa are conveniently located just steps from major conference hotels. For an immersive experience, venture to Kōena, a thermal spa featuring hot and cold pools, as well as the tranquil Pa’akai Himalayan salt room. by treasured artworks. The Canadian Museum of History offers the versatile Grand Hall, renowned for its extraordinary collection of totem poles. For a modern twist, the Canadian War Museum combines flexible event spaces with striking, sustainable architecture. For something truly unique, the Diefenbunker, Canada’s Cold War Museum, offers a perfectly preserved 100,000-sq.-ft. underground bunker that can host up to 150 guests for meetings, events and even escape room adventures. National Gallery of Canada Gatineau Park Rideau Canal ByWard Market Photo: Ottawa Tourism Photo: Ottawa Tourism Photo: Destination Ontario Photo: Destination Ontario Spring 2025 | Ignitemag.ca | 51
