Top Ottawa Art & Culture

The Rideau Canal links Canada’s capital—Ottawa—with majestic Lake Ontario. On this tour, cruise in comfort along the UNESCO World Heritage–listed waterway and admire sweeping views over top attractions including the Canadian Museum of Nature, Château Laurier, Dow’s Lake, and the National Arts Centre. Along the way, listen as your guide sheds light on centuries of colorful Canadian history.

Maximize your time in Ottawa and Gatineau on a whirlwind sightseeing tour by land and water, all in an amphibious vehicle. Aboard your "amphibus," pass top city attractions including Parliament Hill, Notre Dame Basilica, the National War Memorial Monument, and more. When cruising along the street gets dry, plunge into the Ottawa River to see the city from a different angle. A fun tour for both kids and adults.

Only place in Canada where the Rink is made of hard maple with a water based urethane finish! Free arcade with the purchase of an entry ticket! Free pool tables with the purchase of an entry ticket! Restaurant Exit Lounge on site!

Spend the evening getting to know Canadian culture through its music and folklore. You'll dine on a 5-course meal while hearing performers play your favorite songs from all-Canadian artists. Hear songs from Celine Dion, Avril Lavigne, Justin Bieber, and many more. Buying admission in advance means you'll have an evening planned out in Ottawa ahead of time; no scrambling for last-minute plans.

Unlock the heart of Ottawa with Toonie Tours! More than just a sightseeing tour, this is your invitation to truly experience Canada’s capital. From its striking gothic architecture and deep rooted history to its vibrant urban culture and scenic beauty, this journey brings Ottawa’s essence to life. With every step, our expert local guides weave captivating stories, making the city’s past and present come alive before your eyes. Beyond Parliament Hill to Major’s Hill Park and the Byward Market this tour hits it all including Downtown, Centretown, and the Golden Triangle. Whether you're a solo traveler, a family on vacation, or a local eager to rediscover Ottawa, this tour promises an unforgettable experience. Expect intriguing stories, hidden gems, and a personal touch that sets us apart. Join us, and let this valley unfold its tales, one step at a time, always in good company.

Our journey will take us through the heart of Ottawa, exploring the city's past and its role in shaping the nation. You’ll see the art, sculptures, markets, memorials, walking streets, churches, parliament building and so much more. Go at your own pace, anytime. This tour is location aware and plays as you walk. Feel free to put your phone in your pocket and explore with your head up. The tour provides engaging audio and sound effects to set the mood and tell the story of Ottawa. Go anytime, 24/7/365, the tour is all outside.

Take a spooky stroll through Downtown Ottawa on this guided haunted walking tour. Experience the darker side of Canada’s capital and hear tales of the city's haunted heritage as told by a professional storyteller. Hear the hair-raising stories and see the area’s most haunted sites. It’s a fascinating, spine-tingling adventure.

A visit to the Canadian War Museum is your opportunity to learn about the contribution of Canada and its military to many conflicts in Canadian history, and how we commemorate the accomplishments and the loss.  Spend as much time as you need exploring the rare and historically important artifacts, uniforms, vehicles, art, and memorabilia that make up the 3 million pieces in the collections.

Uncover hidden details about Ottawa that you won’t find in most guidebooks on this historical highlights walking tour. Discover the capital’s cultural heritage as you learn about Canadian politics while wandering around Parliament Hill, gaze up at Fairmont Chateau Laurier, explore the vibrant ByWard Market district in Lower Town, and much more.

Explore the endless opportunities. We have a wide range of activities for you to enjoy all season long. Take in new exhibitions, enjoy artist talks, make some art, take a tour, and so much more.

Join us on an unforgettable journey into the heart of Ottawa’s supernatural past as we explore the Bytown Museum. Prepare to be captivated by chilling tales of ghostly encounters shared by museum staff, visitors, and even our Haunted Walk tour guides! As we make our way to the museum, we’ll immerse you in the region’s oldest and most famous ghost stories, including iconic tales such as those surrounding the Rideau Canal, Parliament Hill, and the murder of D’Arcy McGee. Don’t miss this unique opportunity to explore one of Ottawa’s haunted landmarks with The Haunted Walk!

See a new perspective on the Canadian capital—and enjoy a relaxed, hassle-free sightseeing experience—during this narrated boat tour along the Ottawa River. Choose a departure point and tour time that work best for you, find your preferred seat on the two viewing decks, and get comfortable. You can look out for sights ranging from Parliament Hill to Nepean Point, all while learning more from the bilingual commentary.

Have only a limited time to explore Ottawa? See the best of the city—and travel by air-conditioned minivan and by boat—on this time-saving, two-in-one tour. With just a small group for company, you'll see Rockcliffe Park, which is off-limits to larger tour vehicles. Next, trawl the Ottawa River and admire a new perspective on the sights. Then, go for a narrated drive past the Parliament Buildings and more, plus time to sightsee on foot.

Either as an addition to the free Discover the Capital Historical Highlights tour, or simply on its own, step back in time and experience the grit and glory of the ByWard Market: Ottawa’s oldest neighbourhood! Explore the rough-and-tumble days of Bytown — where Irish canal workers clashed in the Shiners’ War, French Canadian families fiercely protected their language and traditions, and lumberjacks boozed and brawled at the legendary Château Lafayette. From bustling Market Square to the powerful symbolism of the National Peacekeeping Memorial, this lively 2 hour tour uncovers the people, struggles, and incredible stories that shaped Canada’s capital. Join us and experience the Market like never before.

The Best Way to Discover Ottawa: Scavenger Hunt & Self-Guided Tour. Play, learn, and walk! Explore at your own pace with a 100% self-guided activity. Start anytime (24/7) with no guides or schedules. Pause for a photo with the giant spider statue at the National Gallery or a stroll by the National War Memorial and resume whenever you're ready—even the next day. This unique team-building activity is perfect for couples, families, and groups. The "Complete City" Package - Everything you need in one app: Interactive Game: Solve puzzles and discover 10+ major attractions, plus hidden gems revealed along the way. Learn the history/legends of each site. Insider Tips: Access hand-picked local restaurant and shop recommendations. What you will visit: Parliament, Centennial Flame, The National War Memorial, The Famous Five, Rideau Canal, Major’s Hill Park, Notre Dame Cathedral Basilica, Royal Mint, National Gallery, and the Champlain Statue.

Ottawa’s political landmarks and historic neighborhoods can feel distant without guidance. Take the mystery out of your visit by exploring with a local on a private walking tour. This personalized tour allows you to discover the exterior of monuments, including museums, while learning about the city’s history and culture. If you wish to include a museum visit, your guide can customize the itinerary to fit your interests—just let us know in advance. Your guide contacts you beforehand to understand your preferences, ensuring you see the places you truly want to experience. Perfect for families, solo travelers, or couples, this tour uncovers Ottawa’s local gems and vibrant culture.

Ottawa, Canada’s capital, invites you to explore its 25 iconic sites in one day. This 5.7 km route takes you along the majestic Ottawa River, through historic monuments such as Parliament, the Library of Parliament and Château Laurier. Discover Canadian history at the Canadian Museum of History and admire art at the National Gallery. Enjoy this walking tour to savour the local culture and captivating cityscapes. - 5.7 km tour through 25 places of interest - Visit iconic sites such as Parliament and Château Laurier - Ideal for history and culture lovers - Duration of the visit: about 2 hours and 20 minutes

Discover Ottawa on a fully customizable private tour, tailored to your interests and pace. Explore iconic landmarks like Parliament Hill, the Rideau Canal, and ByWard Market, or uncover hidden gems and cultural spots that most visitors never see. Your knowledgeable guide will share fascinating stories about the city’s history, politics, and vibrant culture, while helping you create an experience that’s truly your own. Choose optional stops at museums, scenic viewpoints, local food spots, or shopping destinations. Perfect for couples, families, or small groups seeking a personalized and unforgettable Ottawa adventure – reserve your private tour today.

Join our crew of storytelling guides as we take you on a 90-minute escapade through the hidden side of Ottawa. No boring history here! We’re all about the bizarre and unexpected side of the city we love. Ever heard of mutant squirrels or surprise racoons causing havoc? Maple syrup heists that would make Robin Hood blush? Secret society messages encoded in some of our most well-known places? We’ve got all that and more! Guffaw and gasp through the city’s streets as our fun and engaging tour guides spill the beans on those little-known stories and secrets that define Ottawa’s hidden personality. Grab your pals, your family, or even that weird cousin you don’t quite know how to handle – everyone’s welcome! “Hidden Ottawa” is a fun and engaging good-natured adventure, perfect for first-time visitors and locals alike. You won’t find this side of the city in any guidebook! Tickets are vanishing now like a squirrel with a stolen bottle of maple syrup!

Are you looking for a way to explore Ottawa at your own pace? On this self-guided audio tour, you will relive Ottawa‘s turbulent early history when rioters and rogues ran rampant. Ottawa‘s significance extends beyond its Houses of Parliament and famous museums. Before becoming Canada‘s capital, it was a rough, lawless place in the wilderness. On this walking tour through old Bytown, you’ll trace the city’s evolution from a small lumber town to Queen Victoria‘s choice as Canada‘s capital and discover Ottawa‘s hidden backstory. You'll stroll down York Street and learn about the early days of the iconic Byward Market. Ottawa‘s past will come to life in the serene Jeanne d‘Arc Courtyard, where you‘ll hear about the religious and spatial divisions that fueled the feuding Bytown residents. On Sussex Drive, you‘ll explore popular sites from new perspectives and travel back to when rogues, rioters, and disease made the streets unsafe.

Enjoy a hassle-free arrival in Ottawa with this private transfer service. Meet your driver at Ottawa/Macdonald-Cartier International Airport, and relax on the journey to your hotel or private residence. These private vehicles can accommodate up to eight passengers.

Your experience begins as you meet your friendly local guide at 1 Elgin St in downtown Ottawa, just steps from the city’s most iconic landmarks. From here, you’ll set off on a guided walking tour through the heart of Canada’s capital. Make your way toward the vibrant ByWard Market, one of the country’s oldest and most lively public markets. Along the route, you’ll pass the impressive Royal Canadian Mint and the stunning Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica, offering a perfect blend of history, architecture, and culture. Continue on toward the Centennial Flame, walking past the elegant Fairmont Château Laurier along the way. This iconic flame-shaped fountain, commemorating Canada’s Confederation, is a meaningful highlight of your journey. Your tour concludes at the renowned National Gallery of Canada, where you’ll be greeted by the striking Maman sculpture—an unforgettable and artistic finale to your Ottawa experience.

This small-group bike tour is perfect for families and those wanting a safe and leisurely way to see Ottawa. Most of the route is on designated bike paths or quaint backroads that take you to some of Ottawa’s cultural and natural highlights. See Rideau Hall, cycle the Rideau Canal path, plus see the War Memorial, Byward Market and more. Stop along the way to learn more about certain locations and get local tips from your guide.