Located in the oldest part of Ottawa, the ByWard Market is a hub of culture, food and shopping that hums day and night with activity. Just a short walk from the stately expanses of Parliament Hill, the market presents a very different atmosphere. Historic buildings and hidden courtyards jostle with lively bars and multicultural food stalls. You can find food from almost every region of the world at stalls and in the many restaurants. There are also stalls selling artisan-made merchandise and the original Beavertails stand. Beavertails are an Ottawa specialty, a confection made from fried dough that is hand-pulled into the shape of a beaver tail (Canada's national animal). You can get them plain or dusted with various sweet toppings. It's a must-try snack.