Ottawa, Canada’s capital, is a city that beautifully blends history, culture, and natural beauty. As I planned my recent trip, I knew I wanted to find a place where I could relax, enjoy the sights, and have a bit of fun too. After some research, I stumbled upon a hidden gem: a hotel in the heart of Ottawa that offered not just a pool but an exciting water park! It sounded like the perfect retreat, so I decided to book my stay and see for myself what the hotel had to offer. This is my experience at the Ottawa Marriott Hotel, an unforgettable place with a water park and swimming pool that made my stay even more enjoyable.

1. The Perfect Location in Ottawa

The Ottawa Marriott Hotel is situated right in the downtown area, making it an ideal location for those who want to explore the city. It’s just a short walk from many of Ottawa’s top attractions, including Parliament Hill, the National Gallery of Canada, and Byward Market. Whether you’re visiting for sightseeing, shopping, or simply to enjoy the local culture, this hotel is a central hub from which you can easily access everything.

I found the location to be incredibly convenient. After a long day of exploring the city, I was happy to know that the hotel was just a few minutes away, providing easy access to a restful evening in a comfortable setting. The area surrounding the hotel has a lot to offer, and it was great to know that I was close to local cafes, restaurants, and shops, all within walking distance.

2. Hotel Amenities: Water Park and Pool

One of the most exciting aspects of the Ottawa Marriott Hotel is the impressive indoor water park and pool. After reading reviews online and seeing pictures of the facilities, I was intrigued and eager to check it out for myself. I have to say, it did not disappoint.

The hotel boasts an expansive indoor pool that is perfect for those looking to swim laps or simply relax by the water. It has a large, spacious design, with plenty of room for guests to enjoy the water. But the real standout for me was the water park. It’s perfect for families, but also for adults looking to have some fun. The water park includes various slides, water features, and a lazy river. I spent hours in the water, alternating between relaxing and enjoying the slides.

The water park area is designed to cater to all ages. There are smaller slides for younger kids and larger, more thrilling ones for those seeking an adrenaline rush. It felt like a private oasis, and I was so happy I could unwind after a day of sightseeing while feeling like I was on vacation in a tropical resort.

3. Room Comfort and Layout

When booking the Ottawa Marriott Hotel, I opted for a standard guest room with a king-size bed. Upon entering, I was immediately impressed by the clean, modern decor and the space. The room was generously sized, providing ample room to stretch out and relax. The furnishings were sleek and comfortable, with a large flat-screen TV, a mini fridge, and a coffee maker.

The bed was incredibly comfortable, and I found myself drifting off to sleep almost immediately after a long day of exploring the city. The pillows and bedding were of high quality, which made the sleep experience even more enjoyable. The bathroom was spacious, with a large bathtub and a separate walk-in shower. I appreciated the luxurious amenities, which included high-end toiletries, fluffy towels, and a hairdryer.

The room also offered a stunning view of the city skyline, which added a nice touch to my stay. Whether I was looking out the window in the morning or enjoying the view in the evening, the city lights were a beautiful sight.

4. Dining and Eating Options at the Hotel

Though I was excited about exploring Ottawa’s culinary scene, the Ottawa Marriott Hotel also offered fantastic dining options right on-site. The hotel features a well-regarded restaurant, The Marriott Café, serving up delicious meals that cater to a range of tastes. During my stay, I had breakfast there every morning, and I was impressed by the variety and quality of the food.

The breakfast buffet included freshly baked pastries, an assortment of fruits, cereals, yogurt, and hot dishes like scrambled eggs, bacon, and pancakes. The hotel also offered made-to-order omelets, which were a great option for anyone looking for a personalized meal. I found the food to be flavorful and satisfying, giving me the energy I needed for a day of sightseeing in Ottawa.

In addition to the hotel restaurant, there are plenty of dining options in the surrounding area, and I ventured out a couple of times to explore local cafes and restaurants. One standout place was Byward Market, which is just a short walk away and is filled with food stalls, restaurants, and unique eateries.

5. The Water Park Experience: My Favorite Part

Without a doubt, the water park was one of my favorite aspects of staying at the Ottawa Marriott Hotel. After spending time in Ottawa’s bustling downtown, it was such a relief to unwind in this mini water paradise. I spent several hours exploring all the different features of the water park. The highlight for me was the lazy river, which allowed me to float along and relax while enjoying the water. There was also a large slide that took me on a thrilling ride through twists and turns. It was a great way to let loose and have some fun.

I noticed that the hotel’s water park wasn’t just about slides and swimming. It also had several areas designed for relaxation. There were loungers near the pool, allowing guests to sit and relax in the warm water. It was perfect for those looking for a more laid-back experience, away from the energy of the slides.

Even though it was winter when I stayed at the hotel, the indoor water park provided the perfect escape from the cold. I felt like I was transported to a tropical resort, and it was an experience I would highly recommend to anyone looking to have some fun during their stay in Ottawa.

6. Pricing and Booking Details

As for the price, I found the rates for the Ottawa Marriott Hotel to be reasonable, especially considering the high-quality amenities and the central location. I stayed for three nights in a standard king room, which cost approximately CAD $189 per night. The total cost of my stay came to around CAD $567, excluding taxes and additional fees. Given the level of comfort, the water park, and the central location, I felt that it was a good value for the experience.

I booked my stay through Booking.com, which offered competitive prices and allowed me to choose from different room options. The booking process was smooth, and I received immediate confirmation after reserving my room. The hotel’s website also offers the option to book directly, but I found that Booking.com provided some flexibility with free cancellation, which was an added benefit.

7. Final Thoughts on My Stay

After spending a few days at the Ottawa Marriott Hotel, I can confidently say that it made my Ottawa trip unforgettable. The combination of the indoor water park, comfortable rooms, great location, and friendly service made it a standout choice. It was a perfect balance of relaxation and adventure, offering the best of both worlds. Whether you’re traveling with family, friends, or even solo, I highly recommend booking a stay at this hotel, especially if you’re looking for a place with a fun, water-filled experience.

The memories I created at the Ottawa Marriott Hotel will stay with me for years to come. From relaxing in the pool to enjoying the slides at the water park, the hotel offered a unique experience that added an extra layer of fun to my visit to Ottawa. If you’re planning a trip to the Canadian capital, consider staying here for an unforgettable time.