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Parliament Hill, Lanaudiere Travel Guide

4.7 (35872)

Discover Canada's history and democracy at Parliament Hill, an iconic Ottawa landmark with stunning architecture and free tours.

Parliament Hill, in downtown Ottawa, is home to Canada's federal government. This National Historic Site features stunning Gothic Revival architecture, including the Centre Block, West Block, East Block, and the iconic Peace Tower. Visitors can explore the grounds, witness vibrant public events, and take free guided tours to learn about Canada's history and democratic values.

A brief summary to Parliament Hill

  • Monday 8:30 am-6 pm
  • Tuesday 8:30 am-6 pm
  • Wednesday 8:30 am-6 pm
  • Thursday 8:30 am-6 pm
  • Friday 8:30 am-5 pm
Eve
From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Parliament Hill.

  • Arrive at least 25 minutes before your tour to allow time for security screening.
  • Book tour tickets online in advance to ensure availability.
  • All visitors aged 16 and over must present a valid government-issued photo ID to enter West Block.
  • Check the schedule for special events, such as the Changing of the Guard ceremony, which takes place during the summer months.
  • Explore the grounds and monuments surrounding the Parliament Buildings for a self-guided outdoor tour.

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Getting There

  • Walking

    Parliament Hill is centrally located and easily accessible on foot from many downtown Ottawa locations. From the ByWard Market, walk west along Wellington Street for about 15 minutes. From the National Arts Centre, head north on Elgin Street, then turn left onto Wellington Street. Parliament Hill will be on your left. No costs are associated with walking.

  • Public Transport

    OC Transpo, Ottawa's public transit system, provides several bus routes that stop near Parliament Hill. From Ottawa Station (Via Rail), take bus route 97 or 98 towards downtown. Get off at the Parliament Station stop. The current single-ride fare is $4.00 (paid by card) or $4.05 (paid by cash). Seniors single-ride fare (paid by e-purse) is $3.20.

  • Taxi/Ride-share

    Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available throughout Ottawa. A taxi ride from Ottawa Macdonald-Cartier International Airport (YOW) to Parliament Hill typically costs between $30 and $40. From the ByWard Market, a short taxi ride to Parliament Hill will likely cost around $10-$15, including the base fare of $4.00 and approximately $1.86 per kilometer.

Discover more about Parliament Hill

Parliament Hill is a visually striking complex of buildings set on a limestone outcrop overlooking the Ottawa River. It serves as the seat of Canada's federal government and is a major tourist attraction. The Parliament Buildings are excellent examples of Gothic Revival architecture, a popular style in 19th-century Canada.The Centre Block is the most iconic building on Parliament Hill, featuring the Peace Tower, a memorial to Canadians who lost their lives in World War I. Visitors can ascend the Peace Tower for panoramic views of Ottawa. The Library of Parliament, which remarkably survived a fire in 1916, is another architectural highlight.The West Block, the oldest original structure in the complex, now houses the House of Commons. A glass-roofed structure covers its central courtyard, blending traditional craftsmanship with modern design. The East Block contains offices for senators and their staff and is the best-preserved building in the complex.Visitors can explore the grounds of Parliament Hill, which are open to the public and offer a space for celebration or protest. Free guided tours of the Parliament Buildings are available, providing insights into Canadian history, the parliamentary process, and the art and architecture of these historic buildings. The Visitor Welcome Centre serves as the starting point for tours and houses the Parliamentary Boutique.
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