7 Free Tours and Activities to Do in Ottawa

Looking for a cheap getaway this summer? Head to Ottawa to enjoy the many free tours and activities in the Canadian capital!

1. Visit Rideau Hall

Have you heard of Rideau Hall? This magnificent historic mansion and its extensive gardens are the workplace of the Governor General, the Crown’s representative in Canada. You can take a free guided tour. You will see the ceremonial rooms where high-ranking dignitaries are received, admire the Tent Room, a ballroom decorated in red and white, and much more. The gardens are also magnificent with several paths to stroll along, pretty rose bushes and several trees, some of which were planted by famous people.

2. Stroll through the markets

Ottawa offers you the chance to explore several different markets, often very lively on weekends. This is the case, among others, of the ByWard Market where several shops and restaurants are located, but also of the large Lansdowne Farmers Market where local producers and artisans meet to present their products to you.

3. Lounge on the beaches

Did you know? There are several beaches along the Ottawa River, between Ottawa and Gatineau. Access is free and lifeguards are on site during the summer season. You can rent watercraft or simply enjoy the waterfront to cool off. Don’t miss Britannia Beach, Mooney’s Bay Beach, Westboro Beach and Petrie Island Beach to name a few.

4. Cycling along the Rideau Canal

Cycle over 800 kilometres of cycling paths through nature reserves, parks, gardens and historic sites around Ottawa. One of the most charming trails is the one along the Rideau Canal, where you can quickly go from the city to the open green spaces and onto Dows Lake, an idyllic picnic spot.

5. Discover the museums

Ottawa is full of wonderful museums to discover, whether you are a fan of art, history, nature, aviation or something else. Every Thursday evening, the museums of the capital open their doors to you for free. Between the Canadian Museum of Nature, the Canada Aviation and Space Museum, the National Gallery of Canada, the Bank of Canada Museum, where will you go first?

6. Observe the colorful murals

Head to the lesser-known Wellington West neighbourhood where you’ll find some stunning murals as you stroll along Bank Street. Other works are painted elsewhere in the city, often in less-frequented corners. Follow the mural map during your visit to Ottawa to see almost all of them!

7. A visit to Parliament Hill

A visit to Ottawa would not be complete without a stop at Parliament Hill and its various buildings. Book your place for a guided tour of the House of Commons in the West Block, or a visit to the East Block. You might also want to discover all the beauties of the Senate, Ottawa’s former railway station, all this, free of charge upon reservation.