Ottawa's Original Historical Highlights Public Walking Tour

Ottawa , Canada

Ottawa's Original Historical Highlights Public Walking Tour

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(17 reviews)

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

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Explore Ottawa's rich history on this engaging walking tour. Departing from the iconic Bear Catching Fish Statue (89 Sparks St) this 2-hour journey unravels captivating stories behind the city's historic sites, including Parliament Hill. Knowledgeable guides share fascinating insights, making the past come alive as you stroll through the capital. Ideal for history enthusiasts and curious travelers alike, this tour provides an authentic glimpse into Ottawa's cultural heritage.

- 2-hour guided walking tour of Ottawa's historical highlights
- Depart from the Bear Catching Fish Statue, 1 block south of Parliament
- Expert guides deliver engaging narratives and local insights
- If you want to get inside Parliament Hill, Museums and the bank of Canada Museum, you may do so after our tour ends. This will be at your own cost.

Available options

Ottawa's Original Historical Highlights Public Walking Tour

What's included

English speaking guide

Exterior of Buildings

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Discover Parliament Hill’s iconic architecture, history, and landmarks. We head onto Parliament Hill and the tour guide would explain the relevant information, but we don't head inside.

Stop 2

Featuring the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in Confederation Square.

Iconic castle on the Rideau Canal. National Historic Site with rich architectural details and a popular landmark.

Stop 4

The Rideau Canal is a 202 km waterway connecting Ottawa to Lake Ontario, completed in 1832.

Stop 5

ByWard Market is a vibrant district in Lower Town, Ottawa, near the open-air market.

What's not included

Admission Tickets to Parliament

Admission Tickets to the Museums

Admission Tickets to Bank of Canada Museum

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Tripadvisor 4.9

17 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Transportation options are wheelchair accessible

All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

Find your guide at the Bear Catching Fish Statue holding a red umbrella The statue is at 89 Sparks St, corner of Metcalfe & Sparks Streets, directky across from the Bridgehead Coffee.

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.