All Ottawa Tours & Excursions in 2026

Enjoy a role-playing scavenger hunt experience that encourages people to step outside, solve the murder mystery and build connections with long-lasting memories. The Murder Mystery in Ottawa is an interactive game/activity where you are guided by the Questo mobile app through a set of locations in Ottawa, while stepping in the shoes of the story's main character. At each location, you will follow directions and solve very fun puzzles, riddles, and cryptic codes that will unfold the story and guide you to the next location. Designed to be enjoyed on foot, this experience is ideal for exploring the city on a romantic date, a family outing, or as a team-building activity. During the activity, you will also visit popular and hidden places in Ottawa while learning fun stories about them. This is a storytelling experience just as much as it is a role-playing scavenger hunt.

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.

See the best of Ottawa without the stress of public transit and taxis on this hop-on hop-off guided bus tour. With your 1-day pass, hop aboard the double-decker, open-top bus for a panoramic sightseeing excursion. Great for kids and adults, your ticket offers the chance to see over 75 sites at more than a dozen strategically placed stops. Hop off at every stop, or just take in views on the full city loop.

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.

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.

Take full advantage of winter with this unique experience in the second most visited park in Canada. Join Aventure Outaouais for an awesome starlight guided snowshoeing adventure in the Gatineau Park to an charming wood shelter in the heart of the park where a nice warm dinner will be prepared by your guide on the wood stove and served in the warmth and the tranquility of this beautiful and historical shelter. The journey itself is considered moderate in difficulty with 6.5 km (round-trip) in length. But don't let that bother you. With the help of a trained and experienced guide, you will be assisted through this fun adventure and given lots of pro tips. We provide all the training and equipment (snowshoes or crampons, hiking poles, and head lamps) to make it to the shelter and back. This round-trip trail should take around 3 hours to complete, including 1 hour to rest and eat at the shelter. This really is once a must do winter activity in the National Capital Region.

Explore the bounty of Petite-Nation worry-free on this full-day wine and cider tour. Across 10+ stops, you and your crew will experience the region’s terroir, meet the individuals leading the agritourism movement, and more. With a local lunch provided and hotel pickup included, it’s one full-bodied day of taste and adventure.

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.

Get an overview of Ottawa even if you're short on time with a half-day walking tour of the highlights. Navigate the city more efficiently with a guide, and discover details about its gothic architecture and history that you'd likely miss on your own. A tips-based tour means you determine how much you think the experience is worth.

Experience a slice of tropical paradise on the Ottawa River when you join a 90-minute floating tiki bar cruise. Connect your own music to the on-board speakers via Bluetooth, and bring your own food but ALL DRINKS must be purchased on the boat. The boat can accommodate up to 12 people so is ideal for birthday parties or other celebrations.

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.

There is probably nothing more Canadian then taking full advantage of winter with a dog sledding experience in the great winter landscape! This winter, join Aventure Outaouais for this Ultimate Dog Sledding Tour where we will not only take you on a dog sledding adventure in the beautiful Petite-Nation region of the Outaouais, but we will be visiting the regions tallest waterfall at over 63 m tall! All this with the most experiences guides and your transportation from Ottawa and Gatineau! This is truly the best way to enjoy a beautiful Quebec winter day!

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.

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.

Experience Ottawa through its flavors on this unforgettable food tour of the ByWard Market, the city’s most historic and vibrant neighborhood. Led by a passionate local guide, you’ll enjoy 6 delicious tastings that showcase Canada’s capital at its most authentic, from classic Canadian comfort foods to modern, globally inspired creations. Along the way, you’ll meet local chefs, discover hidden culinary gems, and hear stories that bring Ottawa’s rich history and diverse food culture to life. Stroll past heritage buildings, lively cafés, and colorful market stalls as you taste your way through the city’s favorite bites. Come hungry and leave with a true taste of Ottawa!

Experience Downtown Ottawa from the Water aboard the Aqua Taxi! Looking for a fun, affordable way to see the city? Hop aboard the Aqua Taxi for a relaxing 25-minute cruise through the heart of downtown Ottawa. Take in spectacular views of Parliament Hill, the Rideau Canal, the Ottawa Locks, and the city’s beautiful waterfront from a unique perspective. It’s the perfect opportunity to relax, snap memorable photos, and enjoy the fresh air as you glide along the Ottawa River. Powered by clean electric energy, the Aqua Taxi offers a quiet, eco-friendly ride that’s ideal for visitors, families, couples, and locals alike. Downtown service only. Fast, scenic, and affordable—it’s one of the best ways to experience Ottawa from the water.

Climb aboard our Hawaiian-style Tiki Hut and enjoy a relaxing cruise along the beautiful Ottawa River with your family, friends, or coworkers! Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion, enjoying a romantic escape, or bringing a school group for a unique heritage experience, there’s no better way to experience Canada’s capital from the water. Simply head to one of our departure locations, step aboard, and become part of the Ottawa Ohana! Prefer to depart from the Quebec side? Simply send us a message after booking or choose one of our Quebec departure tours.

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.

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.

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!

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.

Escape the city and experience the best wildlife near Ottawa on a private safari to Parc Omega — one of Canada's most unforgettable nature experiences. This private day tour takes you deep into Parc Omega's vast natural landscapes, where Canada's most iconic animals roam freely across expansive habitats. Travel comfortably from your Ottawa accommodation and enjoy a relaxed, personalized experience designed around your pace. As you journey through the park, friendly deer and elk will approach your vehicle for carrots — one of those spontaneous, joyful moments that makes this trip truly memorable. From a safe distance, observe bison, wolves, wild boar, and bears, all living in environments that reflect their natural habitat. This is not a zoo. Your guide adds local knowledge and storytelling, turning every sighting into a meaningful Canadian experience. Parc Omega is spectacular year-round.

Discover the rich history and breathtaking scenery of Ottawa from the river with this engaging rafting trip. For 2.5 hours, glide along the majestic Ottawa River, experiencing the thrill of rafting as you pass by iconic landmarks and learn about the logging era that shaped the region. The adventure includes cliff jumping, body surfing, and a lazy river segment, making it perfect for families, schools, and corporate groups. With a friendly guide leading the way, even non-swimmers can enjoy this safe and exhilarating journey.