Tours and Tickets to Experience Ottawa Parliament Hill

Parliament Hill in Ottawa is home to Canada’s federal government. Here, you’ll find government buildings including the Senate of Canada, the West Block, the East Block, and Centre Block. Parliament Hill is known for the Gothic revival-style of its buildings and its views across the Ottawa River and beyond.

Parliament Hill is located on the southern bank of the Ottawa River, within easy walking distance of many hotels and attractions, such as ByWard Market and the National Gallery of Canada. If traveling by public transport, take the O-Train (Line 1) to Parliament station, which is less than a 5-minute walk away. Alternatively, many bus routes stop nearby—get off at the Elgin/Wellington stop and walk for a few minutes.

At Parliament Hill in Ottawa, you can visit the Parliament buildings on a variety of free tours that can be booked in advance. Tours are available in both French and English of the Senate of Canada Building and the House of Commons at West Block, while tours of the East Block are seasonal and currently take place in the summer only. At Centre Block, you can join an immersive tour that explores the history of parliament, featuring an exhibition and multimedia show.

Ottawa was named the capital of the United Province of Canada in February 1958 and Parliament Hill was chosen as the site for the new parliament buildings. Following a competition to find the architects, construction of the buildings began in 1859 and was completed by 1876, including the Centre Block, East Block, and West Block. A fire destroyed Centre Block in 1916; a larger building was designed and opened in 1920.

No, there is no parking at Parliament Hill. Visitors who are traveling by car can find parking at several private and city lots nearby, or there is paid street parking available. Alternatively, the area is easy to reach via public transport or by bike.

The Changing of the Guard ceremony on Parliament Hill is a traditional military ceremony, which takes place during the summer months—typically from late June to late August. The nature of the ceremony has been subject to change in recent years, featuring a 30-minute concert by the Band of the Ceremonial Guard. Check the Government of Canada website for the latest dates and information on the ceremony.