Ottawa Mystery Quest: Self-Guided Detective Adventure

Ottawa , Canada

Ottawa Mystery Quest: Self-Guided Detective Adventure

Active

(11 reviews)

3h - 3h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Step into the shoes of a private investigator and uncover the secrets hidden in Ottawa’s historic heart. This thrilling quest lets you explore Canada’s capital like never before through puzzles, clues, and an unfolding mystery.

With just your phone, you’ll navigate through 10–15 interactive challenges that guide you to City Hall, the Senate of Canada, and other iconic and lesser-known landmarks. As you solve clues, a gripping detective story unfolds, revealing the fascinating characters and moments that shaped the city. Each puzzle unlocks hidden stories, curious facts, and new directions, no guide or map needed.

What makes this tour unique?
It’s an immersive experience that blends storytelling, history, and outdoor escape-game mechanics to turn downtown Ottawa into a living mystery adventure.

Perfect for curious travelers, couples, families, and amateur sleuths looking to explore the city in a fun and interactive way.

Available options

Ottawa Mystery Quest: Self-Guided Detective Adventure

What's included

Pause and resume anytime for total flexibility

Engaging storyline as a private investigator

10 puzzle challenges across Ottawa

Mobile access code for the quest

Detailed itinerary

You will begin at the Algonquin Land Acknowledgement. Here you will be given your first clue to solve the challenge that awaits you, which will unlock the next part of the story and give you the directions to the next stop.

Here you will find your first clue to solve the challenge that awaits you, which will unlock the next part of the story and give you the directions to the next stop.

Study your next clue on National Arts Center.

To unlock the next part of the story you will be given your next clue to solve the challenge that awaits you.

Look up your next clue to unlock the next part of the story and give you the correct directions.

You will be given a new clue to solve the challenge that awaits you at Parliament. You can stop for as long as you like and continue exploring at your own pace.

Receive your next clue. You can stop for as long as you like and continue exploring at your own pace.

Enjoy the view and continue exploring at your own pace.

Stop 10

You will finish at Tessouat sculpture. Here is where both the story and the city exploration games end.

Stop 11

Explore at your own pace while admiring the Museum of History around you.

What's not included

A tour guide.

Entry tickets to attractions (no needed to complete the tour)

Available languages

Written guide

EN FR

Reviews breakdown

Viator 3.0

1 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 4.2

10 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

• Go to the Algonquin Land Acknowledgement (game starting point).
• Bring a charged phone.
• Open the Questo app and follow the instructions.
• You must have downloaded the app and created an account first, using the same email you made the purchase with.

Important notes

• Unlock your city game in the Questo app using this link: [https://questoapp.com/unlock](https://questoapp.com/unlock)
• Download the Questo app using this link (it’s free): [onelink.to/questo](http://onelink.to/questo)
• Head to the starting point and enjoy your city game!

About Ottawa

Ottawa, the capital of Canada, is a city rich in history, culture, and natural beauty. It's known for its stunning architecture, vibrant festivals, and the iconic Parliament Hill. The city offers a unique blend of urban sophistication and outdoor adventures along the scenic Rideau Canal and Gatineau Park.

Top Attractions

Parliament Hill

The political and cultural heart of Canada, featuring the iconic Parliament Buildings and the Peace Tower.

Historical 1-2 hours Free (tours may have fees)

Rideau Canal

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Rideau Canal is the longest skating rink in the world in winter and a popular spot for boating in summer.

Nature 1-2 hours Free (skate rentals available in winter)

ByWard Market

A historic market area with a vibrant mix of shops, restaurants, bars, and nightlife.

Cultural 1-2 hours Free to explore (costs vary for food and shopping)

National Gallery of Canada

A premier art museum featuring Canadian and international art, including works by the Group of Seven and Indigenous artists.

Museum 1-2 hours CAD 18 (free for youth under 12)

Gatineau Park

A vast natural park across the Ottawa River in Gatineau, Quebec, offering hiking, biking, and scenic views.

Nature Half-day to full-day Free (parking fees may apply)

Must-Try Local Dishes

BeaverTails

Fried dough pastries stretched to resemble a beaver's tail, topped with various sweet toppings like cinnamon sugar, Nutella, and maple butter.

Dessert Vegetarian (check for specific toppings)

Poutine

A Canadian classic made with French fries, cheese curds, and gravy.

Main Course Vegetarian options available (check for specific ingredients)

Tourtière

A traditional Quebecois meat pie, often made with minced pork, veal, or beef, and seasoned with spices.

Main Course Contains meat

Popular Activities

Hiking in Gatineau Park Skiing in Mont-Tremblant Whitewater rafting on the Ottawa River Boating on the Rideau Canal Picnicking in Major's Hill Park Spa treatments Visiting museums (National Gallery, Canadian War Museum) Exploring historic sites (Parliament Hill, Rideau Hall)

Best Time to Visit

June to August, October

Summer is the peak tourist season with warm weather, outdoor festivals, and all attractions open. October is also popular for fall foliage.

15°C to 30°C 59°F to 86°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English, French
Widely spoken: English, French, and other immigrant languages
English: Widely spoken

Currency

Canadian Dollar (CAD)

Time Zone

EST (GMT-5) or EDT (GMT-4) during daylight saving time

Electricity

120VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Ottawa is generally safe with low crime rates. However, as with any city, it's important to stay aware of your surroundings and take basic precautions.