Walking tours in Ottawa efficiently showcase Canada’s capital with minimal fuss and maximum value. The “Best of Ottawa” tour stands out by combining essential sights with a relaxing Rideau Canal boat ride – it’s a smart way to get oriented. History buffs will appreciate the “Highlights and History” tour, which packs two centuries of Canadian stories into a well-paced walk through Parliament Hill and Byward Market. The evening “Haunted Walk” is historically accurate and entertainingly spooky, perfect for families and history enthusiasts alike. The lesser-known “First Discovery” routes reveal quiet corners and local haunts that most travelers miss. All tours connect easily with Ottawa’s public transit system, and knowledgeable guides make complex history accessible.
Let’s explore Ottawa’s most worthwhile walking tours.
Key Points
- Ottawa offers a diverse range of guided walking tours, including the Best of Ottawa Small Group Walking Tour and the Ottawa: Highlights and History Walking Tour.
- Thematic and unique walking tours, such as Haunted Walking Tours and Themed Walking Tours, provide distinctive perspectives on the city’s heritage and culture.
- Self-guided and interactive tours, like the Ottawa Self-Guided Walking Tour and the On This Spot app, allow visitors to explore key landmarks at their own pace.
- The walking tours emphasize accessibility and convenience, with options accessible via public transportation and flexible scheduling to accommodate various traveler timelines.
- Cultural insights and learning are integral to the walking tour experiences, as local guides share unique anecdotes and historical context to foster a deeper appreciation for Ottawa’s heritage.
Best of Ottawa Small Group Walking Tour With Boat Cruise
The Best of Ottawa Small Group Walking Tour with Boat Cruise offers visitors a comprehensive exploration of the city’s iconic landmarks and scenic waterways.
This 4-hour tour takes guests on a narrated walk past notable sites like the giant spider sculpture, Royal Mint, Notre Dame Basilica, and Byward Market.
The highlight is a Rideau Canal cruise, which runs seasonally. With a maximum of 10 travelers, the small group size ensures a personalized experience.
The tour includes all admissions and gratuities are optional.
While reviews are generally positive, some guests have noted issues with guides and communication.
Read our full review: Best of Ottawa Small Group Walking Tour With Boat Cruise Review
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Ottawa: Highlights and History Walking Tour
Spend 3 hours exploring central Ottawa’s 200-year history on the comprehensive Ottawa: Highlights and History Walking Tour.
This $670.36 per group tour (up to 4 participants) covers Parliament Hill, Notre Dame Cathedral, the National Gallery, and Major’s Hill Park.
You’ll see monuments and learn about important figures like Sir Robert Borden and the Famous Five.
Enjoy scenic views along the Ottawa and Rideau Rivers.
The tour’s flexible, so you can share your interests for a personalized experience, and stop for refreshments if you’d like.
It’s wheelchair accessible, and you can cancel for a full refund up to 24 hours in advance.
Just meet the guide at the Byward Market and bring weather-appropriate clothing.
Read our full review: Ottawa: Highlights and History Walking Tour Review
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Original Haunted Walk of Ottawa
For those seeking a more chilling and supernatural experience in Ottawa, the Original Haunted Walk of Ottawa offers a guided walking tour that explores the city’s haunted locations and eerie tales from its past.
Located just steps from Parliament Hill, the tour takes visitors to key sites like the Fairmont Château Laurier, Rideau Canal, and the Commissariat Building Bytown Museum.
Though the focus is on storytelling rather than historical facts, the enthusiastic guides enhance the experience with their engaging narratives.
With a maximum of 15 travelers per tour and an average rating of 4.5 stars, the Original Haunted Walk of Ottawa is a recommended way to discover Ottawa’s ghostly side.
Read our full review: Original Haunted Walk of Ottawa Review
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Ottawa: Small-Group Walking Tour With Boat Cruise
Although the Original Haunted Walk of Ottawa offers a chilling supernatural experience, those seeking a more comprehensive introduction to the city can opt for the Ottawa Small-Group Walking Tour with Boat Cruise.
Priced at $69.86 per person, this 3.5-hour tour takes groups of up to 10 participants on a journey through the capital’s notable attractions, including the Royal Mint, Notre Dame Cathedral Basilica, and the Fairmont Chateau Laurier.
The tour concludes with a scenic cruise on the Ottawa River, providing stunning views of the downtown skyline and Rideau Canal.
With a live guide, comfortable walking, and the option to cancel for a full refund, this tour offers a well-rounded introduction to the city.
Read our full review: Ottawa: Small-Group Walking Tour With Boat Cruise Review
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Haunted Walk at Beechwood Cemetery National Historic Site
The Haunted Walk at Beechwood Cemetery National Historic Site offers visitors a chilling opportunity to explore Ottawa’s dark past.
Located in the Vanier neighborhood, the tour departs from a gazebo across from the main building, taking participants through the historic cemetery.
With a maximum of 20 travelers, the experience features insightful and entertaining hosts who share personal talents like music and fortune-telling.
Though the exact duration isn’t specified, the tour is wheelchair-accessible and near public transportation.
At $24.50 per person, it’s a budget-friendly way to experience the cemetery’s haunted history.
While one reviewer missed the event, the tour maintains a solid 4.0 rating based on 5 reviews.
Read our full review: Haunted Walk at Beechwood Cemetery National Historic Site Review
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Ottawa: Haunted Night Walking Tour
This engaging Ottawa Haunted Night Walking Tour offers participants a spine-chilling exploration of the city’s supernatural side.
Lasting 75 minutes, the tour takes visitors to notable haunted sites like Grant House and Fairmont Château Laurier.
Led by engaging guides in iconic black cloaks, the experience promises engaging storytelling and the chance to uncover unsolved mysteries and ghost tales.
Priced at $19.93 per person, the tour is wheelchair accessible and operates rain or shine.
While video recording isn’t allowed, photography is permitted.
With an impressive 4.5/5 overall rating from 251 reviews, this haunted walking tour provides great value for money and an immersive way to discover Ottawa’s spooky side.
Read our full review: Ottawa: Haunted Night Walking Tour Review
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Ottawa Self-Guided Walking Tour and Scavenger Hunt
Moving on from the captivating Haunted Night Walking Tour, the Ottawa Self-Guided Walking Tour and Scavenger Hunt offers visitors a unique perspective of the city.
This private, self-guided experience features fun trivia and challenges along the Rideau River, highlighting key landmarks like the Senate of Canada and the National Gallery.
With over 40 engaging tasks, the tour provides a historical and architectural walking experience without entry fees.
Though Internet access is required, the tour is wheelchair accessible and suitable for moderate fitness levels.
While the single review is a 1-star rating, the tour still presents an opportunity to explore Ottawa in an unconventional and interactive way.
Read our full review: Ottawa Self-Guided Walking Tour and Scavenger Hunt Review
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Ottawa: Walking Tour in the Heart of the Capital
Embarking on a captivating walking tour through the heart of Ottawa, visitors can uncover the city’s rich history and architectural gems.
The 2.5-hour tour, limited to up to 4 participants, offers a personalized experience led by an experienced guide with over 5 years of expertise.
Explore iconic sites like Parliament Hill, the Rideau Canal, and the ByWard Market, while learning about Ottawa’s fascinating past and hidden gems.
Wheelchair-accessible and with complimentary umbrellas, hats, and gloves available, the tour provides a comfortable and informative exploration of the capital.
Rated 5/5 by past participants, this walking tour is a must-do for anyone seeking an engaging and immersive introduction to the heart of Ottawa.
Read our full review: Ottawa: Walking Tour in the Heart of the Capital Review
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Explore Canada Through Ottawas Eyes With Walking Tours Through the City
Exploring Canada through Ottawa’s eyes is a captivating experience with the help of the self-guided walking tours available through the On This Spot app. The tour takes visitors on a journey through the heart of the capital, starting at Majors Hill Park and ending at 111 Wellington Street.
While the tour is accessible and suitable for most travelers, including those with wheelchairs or strollers, recent reviews suggest some issues with the app’s functionality and the tour’s execution.
The tour offers an opportunity to discover Ottawa’s landmarks and sights at one’s own pace, providing a unique perspective on the city and Canada as a whole.
Read our full review: Explore Canada Through Ottawas Eyes With Walking Tours Through the City Review
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Ottawa: First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour
Although many visitors to Ottawa are drawn to the city’s iconic landmarks and attractions, the First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour offers a unique opportunity to uncover the capital’s hidden gems.
Led by knowledgeable guides, this 2.5-hour walking tour takes participants on a journey through the heart of downtown Ottawa, exploring historic streets, hidden alleyways, and local hotspots.
Priced at Kč 839 per person, the tour has received a perfect 5-star rating from 47 reviews, making it a must-do activity for those seeking a deeper understanding of Ottawa’s rich history and vibrant culture.
Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a local, this walking tour promises to reveal the city’s secrets and unlock its captivating stories.
Read our full review: Ottawa: First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour Review
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Gems and Surprises – Ottawa Walking Tour
The Gems and Surprises – Ottawa Walking Tour goes beyond the city’s iconic landmarks, inviting participants to uncover the capital’s hidden gems and captivating stories.
Guided by a local with insider knowledge, the private walking tour explores historical and cultural highlights that extend beyond government sites. Visitors will learn the backstory of the National War Memorial, admire the architectural beauty of Parliament Hill, and enjoy the peaceful ambiance of Majors Hill Park.
While admission to the National Gallery of Canada isn’t included, the tour provides the best viewpoints for stunning photography. Accessible by public transportation, this personalized experience is a must for travelers seeking an authentic Ottawa exploration.
Read our full review: Gems and Surprises – Ottawa Walking Tour Review
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Ottawa; Walking Tour of Historic Sites!
Ottawa’s historic sites offer a captivating journey through the city’s rich past. One of the highlights is the guided walking tour of these landmarks.
Visitors can explore the iconic Château Laurier, a grand hotel with a fascinating history, on a 75-minute guided tour. Another must-see is the Ottawa Jail Hostel, a former prison now converted into unique accommodation, with a one-hour historic tour available.
For a broader perspective, the 2.5-hour walking tour takes guests through the heart of the capital, showcasing its significant buildings and monuments.
Whether seeking a spooky experience on the 75-minute Haunted Night Walking Tour or a culinary adventure on the 3-hour Evening Taste of the ByWard Market Food Tour, Ottawa’s walking tours provide an engaging way to discover the city’s heritage and charm.
Read our full review: Ottawa; Walking Tour of Historic Sites! Review
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Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Recommended Attire for Walking Tours in Ottawa?
Comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and footwear are recommended for walking tours in Ottawa. Opt for layers, sturdy shoes, and sun protection to ensure a pleasant and enjoyable experience exploring the city on foot.
Are Walking Tours Suitable for Individuals With Mobility Issues?
Walking tours may not be suitable for individuals with significant mobility issues, as they often involve extended periods of standing and walking. However, some tour operators may offer accommodations or alternative options for those with limited mobility.
Do Walking Tours Accommodate Large Groups or Private Bookings?
Many walking tours offer accommodations for large groups and private bookings. This allows flexibility for groups of various sizes and needs to experience the tour at their own pace. Advance reservations are typically recommended to ensure availability.
What Are the Best Tips for Staying Hydrated During Ottawa Walking Tours?
To stay hydrated on Ottawa walking tours, bring a refillable water bottle and take regular sips. Wear lightweight, breathable clothing and take breaks in shady areas. Avoid caffeine and alcohol, which can dehydrate you.
Can Walking Tour Participants Bring Their Own Food and Snacks?
Walking tour participants can generally bring their own food and snacks. Most tours allow this, but it’s best to check with the tour operator beforehand. Bringing water, light snacks, and a small backpack can help keep energy levels up during the tour.
Recap
Ottawa boasts a diverse array of walking tours that cater to various interests, from historical highlights to haunted tales. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a local, these tours offer a unique way to explore the city’s rich heritage and hidden gems. With options ranging from small-group excursions to self-guided adventures, there’s something to suit every traveler’s preference and uncover the best of what Ottawa has to offer.