Ottawa, the Capital of Canada

 

After spending a few days with friends who live just north of Toronto, we drove to Ottawa. There are several routes and the most direct and hassle-free one seemed to be the toll highway #407. We don't know the end cost as it fluctuates depending on time of day and traffic, and since we don't have a transponder, I expect we will get a bill in the mail at some point. 

We stayed at the Wesley Clover Park campground about 20 minutes from downtown Ottawa. It's a municipal campground with large sites. We had just water and electricity and dumped our black tanks on the way out. Sites are treed, with a picnic table and fire ring. The shower house is a bit rundown, with holes in the screens and a lot of cobwebs. Showers were free, with plenty of hot water. It's a large park, with plenty of space for walking. 

Ottawa seemed quite empty for the end of July. It was very hot and humid, with a couple of thunderstorms. Our phones alerted us to a tornado warning one afternoon, but that was soon lifted. 

We enjoyed our tours of the House of Commons, the Senate, and the East Block which houses historical offices. Tours are free, but must be reserved on line ahead of time. 

There is an enormous construction project going on in front of the Centre Block where the House of Commons and Senate usually sit. One guide told us that they are constructing a new visitor's centre, underground so that the view of the Parliament Buildings won't be obstructed.

Watching the workings of the Rideau Canal Locks was interesting. The people who crank the locks open and closed would develop muscle over time. In a very short distance there were eight locks. 

Lots of history here, as well as parks and walking trails.