Explore the Enchantment of Rideau Canal National Historic Site
Discover the Rideau Canal National Historic Site, where stunning landscapes meet rich history, perfect for year-round adventures in Ottawa.
The Rideau Canal National Historic Site, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a stunning blend of natural beauty and historical significance. Stretching over 202 kilometers, this waterway offers breathtaking views, recreational activities, and a glimpse into Canada's rich past. Visitors can enjoy boating in the summer and ice skating in the winter, making it a year-round destination for tourists seeking adventure and relaxation.
A brief summary to Rideau Canal National Historic Site
- 1 Second Ave, Ottawa, Old Ottawa East, Ontario, K1S 2H2, CA
- +1613-283-5170
- Visit website
Local tips
- Visit during the winter months for ice skating, as the canal transforms into the world's largest skating rink.
- Explore the canal by renting a canoe or kayak in the summer for a unique perspective of the city.
- Don't miss the local cafes along the canal for a warm drink and snack while enjoying the view.
- Plan your visit around one of the seasonal festivals for a taste of local culture and festivities.
Getting There
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Car
If you're driving from downtown Edmonton, head southeast on 102 Ave NW towards 97 St NW. Merge onto the Yellowhead Highway (Highway 16) heading east. Continue on Highway 16 for about 2 hours until you reach the junction with Highway 401. Take Highway 401 east towards Toronto. After approximately 2.5 hours, take exit 615 for 416 South towards Ottawa. Continue on Highway 416, which will merge into Highway 417. Follow signs for Downtown Ottawa, and exit onto Nicholas Street. Follow Nicholas Street, and turn left onto Second Avenue to arrive at Rideau Canal National Historic Site, located at 1 Second Ave, Ottawa, ON K1S 2H2. Note that parking may incur a fee, typically around CAD 2-4 per hour.
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Public Transportation
To reach Rideau Canal National Historic Site by public transit, take a bus from Edmonton to the Edmonton International Airport (YEG) using the Air Canada bus service or local transit. From YEG, board a domestic flight to Ottawa Macdonald-Cartier International Airport (YOW). Once in Ottawa, you can take the OC Transpo bus #97 from the airport to downtown Ottawa, which takes about 30 minutes. From downtown, transfer to bus #14 towards Billings Bridge and get off at the stop for Second Avenue. The Rideau Canal is a short walk from the bus stop. The total cost for the flight and transit can vary, but budget around CAD 300-400 for a round trip flight and approximately CAD 3.50 for local bus fare.
Discover more about Rideau Canal National Historic Site
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Glebe Neighbourhood Activities Group
0.8 km
Experience community, culture, and creativity at the Glebe Neighbourhood Activities Group in Ottawa, a hub for social and recreational activities.
Glebe Community Centre
0.9 km
Discover the vibrant community life at Glebe Community Centre, where culture, events, and local engagement come together in Ottawa's charming neighborhood.
The Glebe Sign
0.9 km
Discover the vibrant spirit of The Glebe at the iconic Glebe Sign, a stunning sculpture reflecting Ottawa's rich cultural heritage.
Central Park
0.9 km
Explore the serene beauty of Central Park in Ottawa, a cherished green space offering tranquility, recreational activities, and vibrant community events.
Victoria Memorial Museum
1.1 km
Discover the beauty of Canada's natural and cultural history at the Victoria Memorial Museum, a must-visit destination in Ottawa.
Enclave: The Ottawa Women's Monument
1.5 km
Explore the Enclave: The Ottawa Women's Monument, a historical landmark honoring women’s contributions to Canada’s vibrant culture and history.
Ottawa 2017 Commemorative Cauldron
2.1 km
Explore the Ottawa 2017 Commemorative Cauldron, a significant historical landmark celebrating Canada’s unity and heritage in the heart of the vibrant Byward Market.
Metal Map of Downtown Ottawa
2.1 km
Explore the Metal Map of Downtown Ottawa, a captivating historical landmark showcasing the city's rich heritage and urban landscape.
Lieutenant Colonel John By Fountain
2.2 km
Discover the beauty of the Lieutenant Colonel John By Fountain, a historic gem in Ottawa's Byward Market, perfect for relaxation and reflection.
Central Chambers National Historic Site of Canada
2.4 km
Explore the Central Chambers National Historic Site in Ottawa, a vital piece of Canada's heritage showcasing stunning architecture and rich history.
Heart Island
2.4 km
Explore the serene charm of Heart Island, a beautiful park in Central Park, Ontario, perfect for picnics, walks, and enjoying nature's beauty.
The Flags of Canada
2.4 km
Explore The Flags of Canada, a historical landmark in Ottawa celebrating national pride and the rich cultural diversity of the provinces and territories.
Rideau Canal Historic Plaque
2.4 km
Explore the historic Rideau Canal in Ottawa, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and discover its fascinating history through the iconic Historic Plaque.
The National War Memorial
2.5 km
Discover the National War Memorial in Ottawa, a striking tribute to Canada's brave soldiers, surrounded by history and beauty.
Famous Five Statue
2.5 km
Explore the Famous Five Statue in Ottawa, a historical landmark celebrating women's rights and empowerment in Canada, surrounded by vibrant culture and history.
Unmissable attractions to see
Civic Gardens - Lansdowne Park
0.4 km
Experience the tranquil beauty of Civic Gardens at Lansdowne Park in Ottawa, a perfect escape into nature amidst the urban landscape.
Lansdowne Park Orchard
0.4 km
Explore the stunning Lansdowne Park Orchard in Ottawa, a serene paradise filled with fresh fruits, beautiful landscapes, and memorable experiences for all.
Lansdowne Park Skating Rink
0.4 km
Experience the joy of skating at Lansdowne Park Skating Rink, a vibrant winter destination in Ottawa perfect for families and friends alike.
Lansdowne Park
0.4 km
Discover the charm of Lansdowne Park, Ottawa's premier event venue with ice skating, beautiful parks, and vibrant cultural events year-round.
Aberdeen Pavilion
0.5 km
Explore the historic Aberdeen Pavilion in Lansdowne Park, a vibrant venue for festivals and events that showcases Ottawa's rich cultural heritage.
Church of the Ascension
0.7 km
Discover the tranquil beauty and architectural charm of the Church of the Ascension in Old Ottawa East, a serene Anglican church steeped in history.
TD Place
0.7 km
Experience the excitement of Ottawa's TD Place, a premier stadium and arena hosting unforgettable sports and entertainment events.
Brantwood Park
0.7 km
Experience the natural beauty and tranquility of Brantwood Park in Ottawa, a perfect retreat for relaxation and family fun by the river.
Canadian Museum of Nature / Musée canadien de la nature
1.1 km
Explore the Canadian Museum of Nature in Ottawa, a captivating destination showcasing Canada's rich natural history and diverse ecosystems.
Rideau Canal
1.1 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty and vibrant activities of the Rideau Canal, Ottawa's iconic UNESCO World Heritage site, year-round.
Oh Canada Eh? Dinner Theatre
1.7 km
Experience the best of Canadian culture through music, laughter, and a delicious meal at Oh Canada Eh? Dinner Theatre in Ottawa.
Billings Estate National Historic Site
1.8 km
Explore the historic Billings Estate, a captivating museum offering insights into Ottawa's past, beautiful gardens, and a delightful tea house experience.
The Corktown Footbridge
1.8 km
Experience the beauty of Ottawa from the Corktown Footbridge, a stunning pedestrian bridge offering scenic views and a connection to the city's natural charm.
Dundonald Park
1.8 km
Explore the tranquility of Dundonald Park, a serene city oasis in Ottawa's Centretown, perfect for relaxation and outdoor enjoyment.
Canadian Tribute to Human Rights
1.9 km
Explore the Canadian Tribute to Human Rights in Ottawa, a powerful landmark celebrating justice, equality, and the ongoing fight for human rights.
Essential places to dine
Canal Ritz
0.1 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine with stunning views at Canal Ritz in Ottawa - where every meal feels like a celebration.
Crust & Crate Fast Fired Pizza Pub
0.5 km
Experience the perfect blend of traditional pizza-making and modern gastropub flair at Crust & Crate in Ottawa's Glebe neighborhood.
The Green Door Restaurant & Bakery
0.5 km
Discover fresh flavors at The Green Door Restaurant & Bakery - Ottawa's top destination for vegetarian cuisine with organic and gluten-free options.
Med Supper Club
0.6 km
Experience Ottawa's vibrant dining scene at Med Supper Club – where brunch meets creativity and cocktails flow.
Cantina Gia
0.6 km
Discover the authentic taste of Italy at Cantina Gia in Ottawa's Glebe neighborhood, where every dish tells a story.
Jericho
0.6 km
Discover the flavors of the Middle East at Jericho in Ottawa's Glebe neighborhood – where every dish tells a story.
The St. Rita
0.6 km
Discover authentic Italian flavors at The St. Rita in Ottawa's Glebe – a must-visit pizza restaurant offering exquisite dishes for all tastes.
Feleena's
0.6 km
Experience authentic Mexican flavors at Feleena's in Ottawa's charming Glebe neighborhood - a culinary gem for every traveler.
The Rowan
0.6 km
Discover Ottawa's culinary delight at The Rowan - where British cuisine meets local flavors in a vibrant gastropub setting.
La Strada Restaurant
0.7 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at La Strada Restaurant in Ottawa's charming Glebe neighborhood, where every dish celebrates tradition and flavor.
Banditos
0.7 km
Discover Banditos: Ottawa's premier destination for tacos and cocktails in the lively Glebe neighborhood.
Erling's Variety
0.8 km
Discover Erling's Variety in Ottawa: where local flavors meet creative cuisine in a charming setting.
El Camino
1.3 km
Experience authentic Mexican flavors at El Camino - Ottawa's vibrant destination for delicious tacos and traditional dishes.
The Belmont
1.3 km
Discover The Belmont: A vibrant restaurant and bar in Ottawa offering delightful brunches and evening meals in a cozy setting.
Gitanes
1.3 km
Experience authentic French cuisine at Gitanes in Ottawa's Golden Triangle – where every dish tells a story.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
3 Trees
0.5 km
Explore 3 Trees in Old Ottawa East for unique gifts and stylish clothing that capture the local essence and culture of Ottawa.
The Merry Dancers Old Book and Antique Emporium
0.6 km
Discover a hidden gem in Ottawa's Glebe neighborhood, The Merry Dancers Old Book and Antique Emporium offers a unique blend of literature and antiques for every enthusiast.
viens avec moi
0.6 km
Explore the heart of Ottawa's fashion scene at Viens Avec Moi, a boutique offering unique clothing and accessories that reflect local artistry.
Penelope Jones & Co.
0.6 km
Explore Penelope Jones & Co. for unique vintage glassware and home goods in Ottawa's Glebe neighborhood.
Stomping Ground
0.6 km
Discover unique men's fashion at Stomping Ground in Ottawa's Glebe - where style meets individuality.
Escape Women's Clothing Store
0.7 km
Explore Escape Women's Clothing Store in Ottawa's Glebe for stylish, Canadian-made women's clothing that empowers your unique fashion sense.
Beauty Boutique by Shoppers Drug Mart
0.7 km
Explore a world of beauty at Beauty Boutique by Shoppers Drug Mart, where expert advice meets a vast selection of cosmetics and perfumes.
Bad Dog Co.
0.8 km
Explore Bad Dog Co. in Ottawa's Glebe for unique vintage clothing, accessories, and a delightful shopping experience that celebrates timeless fashion.
Goody Mart
0.9 km
Explore Goody Mart, a vintage clothing haven in Ottawa's Glebe, offering unique finds and sustainable fashion choices.
Ragtime Vintage Clothing
1.2 km
Discover unique and timeless fashion pieces at Ragtime Vintage Clothing in Ottawa, where every garment tells a story.
The Garden Of Light
1.2 km
Explore the enchanting Garden of Light in Ottawa, where unique gifts and stunning crystals await to create unforgettable memories.
Thirteen Strings
1.3 km
Explore Thirteen Strings in Ottawa for quirky gifts, local crafts, and unique souvenirs that capture the spirit of the city.
Beaded Dreams
1.3 km
Discover the rich heritage of Indigenous artistry at Beaded Dreams, Ottawa's premier Native American goods store, featuring exquisite handcrafted treasures.
Honey Hi Boutique
1.3 km
Explore Honey Hi Boutique in Ottawa for curated women's fashion and unique local designs that reflect contemporary trends.
Bellwethers Vintage
1.4 km
Explore an eclectic collection of vintage fashion at Bellwethers Vintage in Ottawa, where timeless style meets modern flair.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Jack Astor's Bar & Grill Lansdowne
0.4 km
Discover the vibrant flavors at Jack Astor's Bar & Grill, where American cuisine meets a lively atmosphere in the heart of Ottawa.
107 Fourth Avenue Wine Bar & Café
0.6 km
Discover the perfect blend of wine and cuisine at 107 Fourth Avenue Wine Bar & Café in Ottawa's Glebe neighborhood.
LOCAL Public Eatery Lansdowne
0.6 km
Experience the lively atmosphere at LOCAL Public Eatery in Lansdowne, where delicious food meets a vibrant pub culture in the heart of Ottawa.
Glebe Central Pub
0.6 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere and diverse offerings at Glebe Central Pub, a top pub destination in Ottawa's The Glebe neighborhood.
Irene's Pub Restaurant
0.6 km
Discover the heart of Ottawa's Glebe at Irene's Pub—where live music and delicious food create unforgettable memories.
CRAFT Beer Market Ottawa
0.7 km
Experience the finest craft beers and seasonal dishes at CRAFT Beer Market Ottawa, a vibrant bar & restaurant in the heart of The Glebe.
Thr33's Co. Snack Bar
0.9 km
Discover Thr33's Co. Snack Bar in Ottawa's Glebe - a vibrant blend of snacks, drinks, and community spirit awaits you.
The Manx Pub
1.3 km
Discover the charm of The Manx Pub in Ottawa, where cozy ambiance meets delicious culinary delights and friendly service.
The Standard
1.3 km
Discover the vibrant flavors of The Standard, a top grill restaurant in Ottawa's Centretown, offering a memorable dining experience for all.
The Lieutenant's Pump
1.4 km
Discover the heart of Ottawa at The Lieutenant's Pump, a lively pub offering a rich selection of local brews and delicious comfort food.
Patty's Pub
1.4 km
Patty's Pub in Old Ottawa South: A Cozy Retreat with Great Food, Local Brews, and Lively Atmosphere.
Charlotte
1.4 km
Discover the chic elegance of Charlotte, Ottawa's premier cocktail bar, offering a unique blend of style, flavor, and vibrant nightlife.
Happy Fish Elgin
1.4 km
Dive into Ottawa's nightlife at Happy Fish Elgin, where vibrant events and signature cocktails create unforgettable memories.
Manor Lounge
1.5 km
Discover Manor Lounge in Ottawa, where exceptional cuisine meets a vibrant atmosphere, perfect for dining and socializing.
LATINOS RESTO-BAR
1.6 km
Discover the vibrant tastes of Latin America at Latinos Resto-Bar, a must-visit gastropub in Ottawa's Glebe neighborhood.
