Although AIC no longer offers a structured companion program, visitors are encouraged to explore all that Ottawa offers by taking advantage of some of the opportunities listed below. Downtown Ottawa is a very walkable city with a host of interesting sights and activities for visitors to enjoy.
 

Your Companion registration fee includes:

• Meet and Greet with other Companions
• Welcome Reception
• Networking Evening
• President’s Reception and Banquet
• 3 breakfasts
• 1 lunch

Within Easy Walking Distance From the Hotel…

Afternoon Tea at the Chateau Laurier
Afternoon tea served in Zoe’s Lounge at the Château is a favourite activity The Chateau celebrates its 100th birthday beginning in June – enjoy the opportunity to sample the special Centennial tea menu.

Parliament Hill
The seat of Canada's federal government and the setting for national celebrations the year round, Parliament Hill is the most visited Ottawa attraction. Truly a must-see! Guided tours take visitors through public galleries, to the Senate and House of Commons (when not in session) and to the top of the Peace Tower, where an observation deck provides the most dramatic 360º view of the Capital.

The Byward Market
An historic farmers' market and shopping district by day and a great place for lunch. A favourite gathering place of restaurants and clubs by night. The ByWard Market just east of the Chateau Laurierl is one Ottawa neighbourhood you won't want to miss.

National Gallery of Canada
Located just steps from the Chateau Laurier, the National Gallery of Canada is the country's showcase of the visual arts and a spectacular architectural landmark. Don’t miss the Janet Cardiff’s Forty-Part Motet -- a brilliant sound sculpture tucked away in the Gallery’s Rideau Chapel feautirng 40 separately-recorded choir voices played back through 40 speakers positioned around the Chapel. Another must-see -- Van Gogh: Up Close -- the first major Van Gogh exhibition in Canada in over 25 years featuring more than 40 of Van Gogh’s paintings from private and public collections around the world

Rideau Centre
Ottawa's premier shopping destination located in the heart of downtown, featuring over 180 stores and home to the biggest names in fashion, beauty, accessories, electronics, entertainment and more

Cycling along the paths of the Ottawa River and the Rideau Canal
Ottawa is a cycling enthusiast's dream destination, with over 180 kilometres of recreational pathways linking natural areas, parks, gardens and national sites. Convenient bike rentals available near the Chateau Laurier Hotel beside the Rideau Canal.

The Bytown Museam
Nestled beside the Rideau Canal locks below Parliament Hill and adjacent to the Ottawa River, the Bytown Museum traces the early history of Ottawa, with a special focus on the construction of the Rideau Canal - a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The Royal Canadian Mint
Located next to the National Gallery of Canada, the Royal Canadian Mint is one of the world's most respected manufacturers of collector and commemorative coins, gold bullion coins, medals and medallions. Visitors have the opportunity to see $1 million in gold up close and hold a solid gold bar in their hands. The Museum is housed in the oldest stone building in Ottawa, beside a series of 8 dramatic stepped locks that connect the Rideau Canal to the Ottawa River.

Supreme Court of Canada
An Ottawa landmark and the highest judicial court in the country, the Supreme Court of Canada welcomes visitors for tours of its hallowed halls and chambers. Tours, conducted by law student guides, are available daily.

National Arts Centre
Located in the heart of downtown next to the Rideau Canal, the National Arts Centre (NAC) is Canada's premier showcase of the performing arts.

Rideau Canal
An historic waterway – the Rideau Canal winds through the heart of Ottawa before connecting with the Ottawa River through dramatic stepped locks right next to Parliament Hill. Explore the Canal by enjoying many of the sightseeing cruises offered daily or visit the Dow’s Lake Pavilion to rent a kayak, paddleboat or canoe.

Tours and Sightseeing
Learn more about Ottawa on foot, or tour by bus or boat. Choose from a variety of tours including Ottawa Walking Tours, the Lady Dive amphibious bus tours, Ottawa’s Haunted Walks, Capital Cruises and many more.

Rideau Hall
Rideau Hall is the official residence and workplace of the Governor General of Canada - an impressive mansion surrounded by fabulous heritage gardens. Public tours are offered on weekends.

Notre Dame Cathedral Basilica of Ottawa
Guided tours of this beautiful 19th century church are offered daily. This National Historic site is Ottawa's oldest standing and largest Church.

For those who would like to venture a little farther…

Canadian Museum of Nature

Canadian Museum of Civilization, including IMAX

Canadian War Museum

Casino Lac Leamy

Gatineau Park

Canadian Aviation and Space Museum

Canadian Agricultural Museum

Canadian Science and Technology Museum

Laurier House

MacKenzie King Estate

Diefenbunker

April 5 2012