Ottawa Sightseeing Tours: Top 5 Can’t-Miss Options
Looking to visit Canada’s capital? Well, finding the very best way to experience Ottawa definitely means finding a tour that, in some respects, hits all the best spots and shows off the personality of this fantastic city. So, whether you are interested in history, want to see amazing architecture, or just like getting an overview of the local scene, there is sure to be something for just about everybody.
1. Ottawa Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour
That quintessential “see it all” option for visitors is almost always the hop-on hop-off bus tour, so it definitely provides, in a way, an excellent way to get around Ottawa. With these tours, you pretty much buy a pass valid for a day or two and get to jump on and off the bus at any of the listed stops. Often these buses provide commentary, sort of highlighting facts about each location.
What is great, then, is how these tours really let you create your very own agenda. See a spot that, arguably, interests you? Just hop off and take a look. Then, get back on the next bus and move along. You, like your family, can easily hit major locations like Parliament Hill, the National Gallery, and ByWard Market at whatever pace suits you.
Why try this tour: Basically, it offers flexibility and a great general intro to Ottawa. The bus makes it easy to see the must-see locations without all the logistics of trying to make your very own plan.
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2. Ottawa River Cruise
A cruise on the Ottawa River is, actually, a unique angle from which to view the capital. Actually, there are many types of boat tours, ranging from just a casual sightseeing cruise to boats offering meals and even entertainment.
Many boat cruises offer views of Parliament Hill and other waterside sights. That gives tourists what might be a fantastic opportunity for snapshots. Some even go through the Ottawa River locks; it’s almost a unique way to witness how waterways get managed, and so experience a piece of the engineering story.
Why try this tour: The views are pretty exceptional, and, in fact, being on the water really gives another aspect to the whole sightseeing gig. So, it’s great if, in some respects, you are into something chill and a bit unique.
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3. Haunted Walk of Ottawa
Are you a bit intrigued by local ghost tales and histories with a scary tone? Well, then, a haunted walk will show you a part of Ottawa few visitors might actually see. Basically, these walks usually happen during the night and are led by storytellers who know all of the dark happenings in local history.
You might, seemingly, discover places like the Fairmont Château Laurier and the old jail, and that reveals many creepy stories connected to these places. Usually, these walks tend to be more fun and engaging, in that way, they aren’t really designed to make anyone run screaming down the street. The approach is one of fun, like your average scary movie with lots of interesting bits regarding the history of the city itself.
Why try this tour: So, if you’d rather something with some spice to it and would not mind experiencing local history through some less traveled tales, this makes for an unusual way to enjoy the night and perhaps learn quite a bit while having fun.
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4. Parliament Hill Tours
It’s hard to see Ottawa without visiting Parliament Hill, the center of Canadian government. In fact, free guided tours offer access into the Parliament buildings, including the Senate and House of Commons.
The tours offer insights into Canadian political functions. In addition to learning how everything operates, tours, arguably, allow visitors to witness architectural grandeur and view works of art, that highlight major events from Canada’s history. Getting tickets could be very tricky so make reservations ahead, mainly around the high seasons.
Why try this tour: Basically, a great way to gain, to be honest, a deeper appreciation for the Canadian system. Also, the building’s beauty and historical weight make, you know, a visit worthwhile for people of pretty much any interest.
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5. Canadian Museum of History Tour
Canadian history has much more depth than many think, actually. One could, for example, check the Canadian Museum of History which rests just over the river in Gatineau, Quebec. The museum has extremely extensive collections which include stuff from Canadian origins all the way through current culture. You know, things like totem poles, reconstructions of villages lived in previously and awesome info pertaining to critical historical moments provide lots for anyone checking this out.
Guided tours provide, in some respects, in-depth details regarding key displays; often, these tours, seemingly, target particular subjects or exhibits within this really, really expansive museum. The architecture as such that the museum presents would be, seemingly, quite an attraction for some since the style stands as completely different compared to several buildings to be found throughout Ottawa itself, as well.
Why try this tour: You, like your family, are going to gain more exposure pertaining to both history and civilization concerning Canada compared against almost all other adventures available in the area. Also, what they show allows individuals, arguably, many aspects to consider so just about everybody must discover pieces which catch them by interest. Read our full review: Canadian Museum of History Tour Full Review and Details
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