Rideau Hall, Ottawa Travel Guide

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Explore Rideau Hall: the historic residence of Canada's Governor General, offering year-round tours and scenic grounds in the heart of Ottawa.

Rideau Hall, located in Ottawa, is the official residence of the Governor General of Canada and a National Historic Site. Built in 1838 by Thomas McKay, it has served as the residence for every Governor General since 1867. The grounds are open year-round, offering a glimpse into Canadian history and culture.

A brief summary to Rideau Hall

1 Sussex Dr, Ottawa, Lindenlea - New Edinburgh, Ontario, K1A 0A1, CA
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Monday 8 am-4:30 pm
Tuesday 8 am-4:30 pm
Wednesday 8 am-4:30 pm
Thursday 8 am-4:30 pm
Friday 8 am-4:30 pm
Saturday 8 am-4:30 pm
Sunday 8 am-5:30 pm

From Eve

Know before you go

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

Check the Rideau Hall website for tour schedules and special events before your visit.
Explore the grounds to discover various gardens, historical buildings, and unique Canadian landscapes.
Take advantage of the free street parking available in the surrounding neighborhood, but be mindful of the 3-hour limit.
Visit during the summer to witness the Ceremonial Guard's Relief of the Sentries.

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Explore Rideau Hall on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Rideau Hall, mapped for you.

Getting There

Walking

From Parliament Hill, walk 3.5 kilometers east along Sussex Drive. The Queen Elizabeth II Equestrian Monument marks the visitor entrance. Enter the grounds through the Sussex Drive, Thomas Gate, or MacKay Street entrances.
Public Transport

Take an OC Transpo bus to a stop near Rideau Hall. From downtown, several routes connect to Sussex Drive. Check the OC Transpo website or app for schedules and real-time updates. A single ride fare is approximately $4. Seniors ages 65 and older can ride OC Transpo buses and the O-Train for free on Wednesdays and Sundays.
Taxi/Ride-share

Hail a taxi or use a ride-sharing app to get to 1 Sussex Drive. From downtown Ottawa, a taxi ride typically costs between $11 and $16 CAD, depending on traffic and distance. Note that taxi base fares in Ottawa are $4 CAD, with an additional $1.86 CAD per kilometer.

Discover more about Rideau Hall

Rideau Hall, situated on 1 Sussex Drive in Ottawa, has been the official residence and workplace of Canada's governors general since 1867. This distinguished site, also known as Government House, began as a stone villa constructed in 1838 by Thomas McKay, a stonemason and contractor who also contributed to the Rideau Canal's construction.In 1865, the Crown leased Rideau Hall and, subsequently, expanded it to accommodate its new role. Over the years, additions like the Ballroom, Tent Room, Minto Wing, Long Gallery, and a new front entrance have transformed the estate. The grounds, reflecting British landscape traditions with a Canadian touch, feature treed lawns, flowerbeds, and semi-wild areas.Today, Rideau Hall is a hub for state ceremonies, cultural gatherings, and the presentation of national honors. Visitors can explore the state rooms, gardens, and art collection through guided tours. The 79-acre park includes rose gardens, rockeries, cricket lawns, and various tree stands, some planted by international VIPs. The Canadian Heritage Garden, with over 200 winter-hardy rose varieties, is a highlight. The grounds are open from 8 a.m. to one hour before sunset.