Top Ottawa Walking Tours

Operation City Quest of Ottawa lets your team discover the city in a fun and different way. Our app will instruct you to find a variety of items throughout the city in any order you'd like, and do funny challenges, for points! See your points stack up to others during the game on the app's ranking feature. All scavenger hunts come with a remote guide to help you via chat. Come compete with us in Ottawa.

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.

Discover why Ottawa is so much more than just a government town. This private walking tour reveals sides of the Canadian capital that you never would have expected. You'll learn about the moving backstory to the National War Memorial, admire the architectural beauty of Parliament Hill, enjoy the peaceful ambiance of Major's Hill Park, and explore the National Gallery of Canada (admission ticket not included) and get to know Canada's largest and most impressive art collection.

Enjoy a private romantic walking tour through the historic heart of Ottawa. Share memorable moments while exploring Canada's capital, where historic landmarks and cultural heritage reflect centuries of national history that long predate the modern United States. Wander through elegant streets lined with magnificent architecture, inspiring monuments, and picturesque public spaces. Which love stories are connected to Ottawa's historic landmarks? How did this distinguished capital grow into the cultural heart of Canada? Your professional guide will reveal captivating stories of romance, heritage, and architectural excellence while you discover the city's timeless charm together. This premium experience blends history, culture, and romance into an inspiring journey through one of Canada's most distinguished historic capitals. Please note: The program and attractions may vary based on booking date/time and crowd conditions, ensuring each visit is a unique experience.

Skip the crowds - this is a private tour only for your group! Experience the charm of Ottawa with your family on this engaging walking tour that explores the city’s rich history and vibrant local culture. Start at the majestic Parliament Hill, where Canada’s democratic heartbeat lies, and marvel at the stunning architecture. Pay your respects at the National War Memorial before enjoying a peaceful stroll through Major’s Hill Park, where you’ll be treated to breathtaking views. Finally, immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere of ByWard Market, where local artisans and fresh flavors await. This tour is perfect for families looking for a blend of history, nature, and culture in under two hours! Please note: The program and attractions may vary based on booking date/time and crowd conditions, ensuring each visit is a unique experience.

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.

Looking for things to do in Ottawa? Our Ottawa Embassies scavenger hunt is a 3-hour self-guided walking tour with challenges around the diplomatic neighbourhood. Learn about Ottawa’s international importance and discover some of its attractions. You'll solve challenges to discover your next destinations. Buy either a single or a group ticket. Walk from Strathcona Park to MacDonald Gardens Park to Laurier House, passing by numerous embassies, the Rideau River, and some monuments. Have fun solving the varied challenges. The Ottawa Embassies Tourist Scavenger Hunt is a 3.4 km / 2.1 mi walking tour with challenges along the way. It should take you 2 hours to complete. - A fun learning experience - See the sights! 32 locations - Learn some local history - Fun for all ages, kids included - Walk at your own pace - Pets are not allowed in all locations on this tour. - Wheelchair- and stroller accessible throughout. - Start whenever you are ready, from your smartphone – no fixed schedule

Are you looking for things to do in Ottawa? Our Ottawa scavenger hunt is a 3-hr self-guided walking tour with challenges, taking you from Château Laurier to the Supreme Court and the ByWard Market, without missing Parliament Hill, of course! Buy either a single or a group ticket. Solve challenges at every step to discover your next destination and earn points. Learn a little history as well as interesting facts about what surrounds you. The Ottawa Scavenger Hunt is a 4.5 km / 2.8 mi self-guided walking tour with challenges along the way. It takes 3 hours to complete. A fun learning experience. See the 44 sights. Learn some local history. Fun for all ages, kids included. Walk at your own pace. Pets are allowed throughout the tour. Wheelchair- and stroller accessible throughout. Start whenever you are ready, from your smartphone – no fixed schedule. Take as little or as much time as you wish to complete your hunt.

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.

The Ghosts of Christmas Past Are Calling! Step into the shadows of the festive season, where lantern light flickers, snow falls softly, and stories linger in the long nights. From chilling winter folklore to ghostly yuletide legends, you’ll discover a darker thread woven through the season’s cheer. The majority of the tour unfolds inside the dimly lit Bytown Museum, one of Ottawa’s oldest and most haunted buildings. Once inside, you’ll learn why some Haunted Walk tour guides are too scared to give tours of the museum—even at Christmas time. Warm lights. Spooky seasonal chills. A night of festive fright you won’t soon forget. December 5, 6, 13, 20, 27-30, 2025.

For some, cemeteries evoke feelings of fear and dread. For others, they are beautiful spaces filled with memories and reflection. For us, they are places with countless stories waiting to be told. We are proud to partner with Beechwood Cemetery National Historic Site for a one-of-a-kind evening filled with storytelling and chills. We will share the darker history of the cemetery’s early days and the ghost stories connected to some who rest there – including strange reports from staff that continue to this day. The experience will be mostly outdoors as we walk amongst the crypts, headstones and other markers. Our final stop of the evening will give us the rare opportunity to venture inside the Mausoleum after sunset for one last spine-tingling tale.

Discover the hidden stories and fascinating history of Ottawa’s most famous castle, the iconic Fairmont Château Laurier. Join us for a 75-minute guided tour as we go behind the scenes and explore the secrets of this majestic landmark. Learn about concealed passageways, hear about political rendezvous, and stand in the ballrooms where countless grand galas have taken place. See the luxurious swimming pool and the exclusive areas typically reserved for guests. Immerse yourself in captivating tales of the Château Laurier’s notable guests and its storied past. While the focus isn’t on ghost stories…we might just share one. Book your adventure today and let our captivating guides unlock the magic of this majestic castle. Presented in English only. Not a ghost tour. As the Château Laurier is an active hotel, access to certain rooms may occasionally be limited. We’ll do our best to notify guests in advance if their tour will be significantly affected.

Discover Ottawa’s wild side! Spot iconic wildlife downtown, then head to Gatineau Park for outdoor adventures and animal sightings, explore fascinating exhibits at the Canadian Museum of Nature, or enjoy a drive-through safari at Parc Oméga—Canadian nature at its best! Solve puzzles, explore the city, and find hidden gems at your own pace. Try a new type of experience with your smartphone, the perfect mix between a walking tour, sightseeing, and a scavenger hunt.

A decadent walking tour for the True Chocolate lovers! Indulge your sweet tooth as you explore the ByWard Market with a local guide, discovering rich, surprising chocolate creations along the way. Indulge in all things CHOCOLATE! Let us take you in a guide walk you through the ByWard Market and help you discover the many forms and tastes of chocolate. This tour highlights some of the best chocolate creations the ByWard Market neighbourhood has to offer!

Eat your way across Canada—without leaving downtown Ottawa! Join us on the TASTE OF CANADA tour for a fun and flavour-packed journey through the dishes that Canada has popularized. Come hungry—and leave with a new appreciation for Canada’s quirky culinary inventions! The Taste of Canada Food Tour is a guided gastronomic experience that brings iconic Canadian dishes to life through delicious tastings, fun storytelling, and local insight. Over the course of 2 – 2.5 hours, you’ll visit a variety of handpicked spots in the heart of Ottawa’s historic ByWard Market, sampling dishes and drinks that highlight Canadian comfort foods, regional favourites, and uniquely Canadian inventions. Along the way, your guide will share the history, quirks, and cultural significance behind each bite. WHAT YOU WILL TASTE: – A classic Hawaiian pizza slice paired with a Bloody Caesar cocktail* – Authentic Quebec-style poutine served with local, Canadian craft beer and many more!

Experience the Sights and Tastes of the ByWard Market Our most popular walking tour! British Colonel John By’s mission to build the Rideau Canal included planning the area’s first commercial district – the ByWard Market. Your C’est Bon Guide will weave you thru this bustling market zone, sharing stories about its history and special signts, while you discover both local and international eateries loved by locals! NCLUDED IN YOUR TOUR EXPERIENCE A Knowledgeable Guide – Hear stories about the ByWard’s rich history and the food traditions born from its evolution. Language Choice – Choose an English- or French-speaking guide! Neighbourhood Sights – Visit the ByWard Market Pavilion, the Ottawa Letters, the York Street Plaza, the Courtyards, the Totem Pole of Canada, and more!

Discover the vibrant ByWard Market District on a guided food tour that showcases Ottawa's culinary delights. This walking tour invites you to savor three savory dishes and a sweet treat from local favorites while learning about the neighborhood's rich history from an experienced guide. Each stop is thoughtfully selected to provide an authentic taste of the area, with an option to enjoy a beer or wine at one location. Perfect for food lovers and cultural enthusiasts, this tour captures the essence of one of Canada’s most beloved markets. - Guided walking tour through Ottawa's historic ByWard Market - Sample 3 savory dishes and 1 sweet treat from local vendors - Enjoy a beer or wine at one of the food stops (non-alcoholic option available) - Experience the rich history and culture of the ByWard Market with an expert guide

Explore Ottawa on a private 2-hour walking tour through the heart of Canada’s capital. Led by a local guide, discover the city’s history, landmarks, and national symbols while hearing stories about the people and events that shaped Ottawa. Begin on Sparks Street and make your way past Parliament Hill, the National War Memorial, Major’s Hill Park, the National Gallery of Canada, the Rideau Canal, and Fairmont Château Laurier. Along the way, take in views, hear local stories, and learn about Ottawa’s role as Canada’s capital before finishing at ByWard Market. With time for photos, questions, and conversation, this private experience offers a personal introduction to Ottawa’s history and character.

Discover Ottawa, Canada's capital, on an exclusive 100% private tour for 1 to 3 guests only. No other travellers join, and the whole day is fully customizable. Your tour starts at 8:00 a.m. with door-to-door hotel pickup and drop-off in a private, air-conditioned vehicle, with a window seat for every guest. Choose your day: - 10-Hour Ottawa & Gatineau: Parliament Hill, the Rideau Canal locks, ByWard Market, Sussex Drive, Rideau Hall, Rockcliffe Park, Gatineau Park and the Canadian Museum of History, plus a 2-hour experience of your choice. - 14-Hour Montreal or Mont-Tremblant: a full private day trip, with free time for dinner (own expense) before the drive home. Included: coffee and/or tea with a snack, bottled water, free Wi-Fi, all parking fees, fuel and tolls, and baby, child and booster seats on request. Add, skip or swap any stop and travel at your own pace. No crowds, no strangers, just Canada's capital and its surroundings, your way.

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.

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.

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.