Explore the Historic Charm of Parliament Hill Square
Discover the stunning architecture and rich history of Parliament Hill Square, the heart of Canadian politics in Ottawa.
Parliament Hill Square in Ottawa is a must-visit for tourists seeking to immerse themselves in Canada's rich history. This iconic landmark is not only a stunning architectural feat but also the heart of Canadian politics, surrounded by lush gardens and vibrant public spaces. Visitors can enjoy leisurely strolls, guided tours, and picturesque views that capture the essence of Canada’s heritage.
A brief summary to Parliament Hill Square
- Ottawa, Downtown, Ontario, CA
Local tips
- Visit during the Changing of the Guard ceremony for a unique experience.
- Check the schedule for free guided tours available throughout the day.
- Bring a camera to capture the stunning architecture and beautiful gardens.
- Explore nearby attractions like the National Gallery of Canada and ByWard Market.
- Dress in layers, as it can be windy near the river.
Getting There
-
Walking
From the main entrance of Parliament Hill, head towards the center of the lawn where you will find the iconic Peace Tower. Continue straight ahead, and you will see the pathway leading down towards the Ottawa River. Follow this pathway until you reach the open area known as Parliament Hill Square. The square is directly adjacent to the Parliament buildings and offers beautiful views of the surroundings.
-
Public Transit (OC Transpo)
If you are further away in the downtown area, you can take OC Transpo bus routes that service the Parliament area. The closest bus stop is located at 'Parliament / Elgin'. From there, disembark and walk towards the Parliament Hill complex. It is about a 5-minute walk to reach Parliament Hill Square. Ensure you check the OC Transpo schedule for bus timings and fares, which typically cost around CAD 3.75 for a single ride.
-
Cycling
For those who prefer cycling, there are bike lanes throughout downtown Ottawa. If you are coming from the ByWard Market area, take Rideau Street westbound until you reach the Ottawa River. Follow the cycling path along the river, which will lead you directly to the Parliament Hill area. There are bike racks available near the entrance to Parliament Hill Square.
Discover more about Parliament Hill Square
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Parliament Hill Square
0.0 km
Discover the stunning architecture and rich history of Parliament Hill Square, the heart of Canadian politics in Ottawa.
Prime Minister Lester B Pearson Monument
0.2 km
Discover the Lester B. Pearson Monument in Ottawa, a striking tribute to Canada's peacekeeping legacy and a must-see historical landmark.
Statue of Sir George-Étienne Cartier
0.2 km
Explore the Statue of Sir George-Étienne Cartier in Ottawa, a stunning homage to Canadian heritage and a must-see for history lovers.
Statue of Sir John A. Macdonald
0.2 km
Discover the Statue of Sir John A. Macdonald in Ottawa, a monumental tribute to Canada's first Prime Minister, enriching your historical journey through the capital.
Victoria Tower Bell Monument
0.2 km
Discover the Victoria Tower Bell Monument in Ottawa, a historical landmark symbolizing Canada's rich political heritage and architectural beauty.
Sir Wilfrid Laurier Statue
0.2 km
Discover the Sir Wilfrid Laurier Statue on Parliament Hill, a stunning tribute to Canada's leadership and history, surrounded by breathtaking architecture and gardens.
1 Canal Ln
0.2 km
Explore the picturesque 1 Canal Lane in Ottawa, a charming destination blending historical significance with stunning architectural beauty along the scenic canal.
Central Chambers National Historic Site of Canada
0.3 km
Explore the Central Chambers National Historic Site in Ottawa, a vital piece of Canada's heritage showcasing stunning architecture and rich history.
Rideau Canal Celtic Cross
0.3 km
Explore the Rideau Canal Celtic Cross, a stunning stone carving celebrating Celtic heritage amidst Ottawa's serene natural beauty.
The Flags of Canada
0.4 km
Explore The Flags of Canada, a historical landmark in Ottawa celebrating national pride and the rich cultural diversity of the provinces and territories.
Unmissable attractions to see
Peace Tower
0.1 km
Explore the Peace Tower, a historic Ottawa landmark embodying Canada's spirit of peace and democracy with breathtaking views of the capital.
Guided Tours of Parliament
0.1 km
Uncover the beauty and history of Canada's Parliament buildings with guided tours that explore the heart of democracy in Ottawa.
The Memorial Chamber
0.1 km
Explore The Memorial Chamber in Ottawa, a historical landmark honoring the sacrifices of Canadian heroes through poignant tributes and serene reflections.
House of Commons of Canada
0.1 km
Explore the House of Commons, the iconic symbol of Canadian democracy, where history and politics come alive in the heart of Ottawa.
Terry Fox Statue
0.1 km
Explore the Terry Fox Statue in Ottawa, a poignant symbol of courage and determination, honoring a Canadian hero's legacy of hope and perseverance.
Parliament Hill
0.1 km
Explore Parliament Hill, Ottawa's iconic historical site, where Canada's democracy thrives amidst stunning architecture and vibrant culture.
Parliament of Canada
0.1 km
Discover the grandeur of the Parliament of Canada, an architectural masterpiece and the center of Canadian democracy, located in the picturesque city of Ottawa.
Capital Information Kiosk
0.2 km
Explore Ottawa's rich history and vibrant culture at the Capital Information Kiosk, your essential resource for navigating Canada's capital city.
Co-Premiers of the Province of Canada
0.2 km
Explore the Co-Premiers of the Province of Canada, a historical landmark in Ottawa that showcases the rich political heritage of Canada with stunning views.
East Block
0.2 km
Explore the East Block, an architectural masterpiece in Ottawa that offers insights into Canada's political history and heritage.
Ottawa Sign, Sparks St. (mobile)
0.2 km
Experience the vibrant energy of Ottawa at the iconic Ottawa Sign on Sparks Street, a perfect blend of culture and photography in Canada's capital.
Library of Parliament
0.2 km
Explore the Library of Parliament, a stunning architectural gem and a vital part of Canada's heritage nestled in Ottawa's vibrant heart.
Escape Bicycle Tours and Rentals - Ottawa
0.2 km
Discover Ottawa's charm and beauty on two wheels with Escape Bicycle Tours and Rentals, offering bike and scooter rentals for every adventurer.
Bytown Museum
0.2 km
Explore Canada's capital at the Bytown Museum, where Ottawa's rich local history comes alive through engaging exhibits and captivating stories.
Lady Dive Tours
0.3 km
Experience Ottawa like never before with Lady Dive Tours, blending land and water exploration for unforgettable views of Canada's capital.
Essential places to dine
Riviera Ottawa
0.2 km
Discover Riviera Ottawa: Where Culinary Excellence Meets Elegant Ambiance in Canada’s Capital City.
Aiana Restaurant Collective
0.3 km
Experience exquisite seafood and gourmet cuisine at Aiana Restaurant Collective in Ottawa's vibrant Byward Market.
The Office Resto Pub
0.3 km
Discover Ottawa's culinary delights at The Office Resto Pub—a perfect blend of pub charm and modern dining experiences.
Rabbit Hole
0.3 km
Discover Rabbit Hole: A premier cocktail bar and oyster restaurant in downtown Ottawa offering unique drinks and fresh seafood.
La Terrasse
0.4 km
Experience exquisite dining at La Terrasse with stunning views overlooking Ottawa's vibrant skyline and iconic landmarks.
WILFRID'S
0.4 km
Discover fine dining at Wilfrid's in Ottawa - where local flavors meet exquisite culinary artistry.
Valentina
0.4 km
Discover Valentina: A European dining experience in Ottawa's Byward Market offering exquisite dishes and a cozy ambiance.
Milestones
0.4 km
Experience contemporary Canadian cuisine at Milestones in Byward Market, Ottawa - where delightful flavors meet inviting ambiance.
Metropolitain Brasserie Restaurant
0.5 km
Discover the taste of France at Metropolitain Brasserie, where classic dishes meet modern elegance in Ottawa's Byward Market.
Tavern On The Hill
0.5 km
Discover Tavern On The Hill in Ottawa: where delicious grill cuisine meets stunning views in a vibrant atmosphere.
1 Elgin Restaurant
0.5 km
Discover authentic Canadian cuisine at 1 Elgin Restaurant in Ottawa – where fresh ingredients meet exceptional flavors.
Social Restaurant + Lounge
0.5 km
Discover Ottawa's Social Restaurant + Lounge: where exquisite cuisine meets vibrant nightlife in the heart of Byward Market.
Cocotte Bistro
0.5 km
Experience exquisite French cuisine at Cocotte Bistro in Ottawa's Byward Market – where every meal feels like a special occasion.
Play Food & Wine
0.5 km
Discover the innovative flavors of Canada at Play Food & Wine in Ottawa's Byward Market - where every bite tells a story.
Oz Kafe
0.5 km
Experience culinary excellence at Oz Kafe in Ottawa's Byward Market – where flavor meets fun in every dish and drink.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Parliament Souvenier And News
0.2 km
Discover unique Canadian treasures at Parliament Souvenir and News, your go-to gift shop near Parliament Hill in Ottawa.
Galerie d'art Vincent
0.4 km
Experience the beauty of Inuit art at Galerie d'art Vincent, a vibrant Ottawa gallery that brings Indigenous culture to life through stunning artworks.
Around The Corner
0.4 km
Explore Around The Corner, Ottawa's charming gift shop for unique souvenirs and locally crafted treasures that celebrate the city’s vibrant culture.
Gift Shop
0.5 km
Explore the Gift Shop in Ottawa for unique souvenirs, local delicacies, and essentials, all in the heart of Canada's capital.
STUNNING Women's Fashion + Accessories, ByWard Market, Ottawa
0.5 km
Explore STUNNING Women's Fashion + Accessories in ByWard Market, Ottawa - a fashion paradise for unique clothing and jewelry.
Schad - Women's Fashion Boutique
0.6 km
Explore Schad, Ottawa's premier women's fashion boutique, offering a curated collection of stylish clothing and accessories in the heart of Byward Market.
The Hotel Gift Shop
0.6 km
Explore The Hotel Gift Shop in Ottawa for unique souvenirs, local crafts, and the perfect gifts to remember your trip by.
Hudson's Bay
0.6 km
Explore Hudson's Bay in Ottawa: Your ultimate destination for fashion, beauty, and Canadian culture in a vibrant shopping environment.
Cybertela
0.6 km
Explore Cybertela in Ottawa, a premier clothing store where style meets local culture, perfect for tourists seeking unique fashion pieces.
CF Rideau Centre
0.6 km
Discover a shopping paradise at CF Rideau Centre in Ottawa, offering a wide array of stores, dining options, and vibrant atmosphere for every visitor.
Irving Rivers, ByWard Market
0.6 km
Explore Irving Rivers in ByWard Market for unique souvenirs, army surplus gear, and seasonal treasures that capture the essence of Ottawa.
OXXO SILK AND GIFT
0.7 km
Explore OXXO Silk and Gift in Byward Market, Ottawa for exquisite silk products and unique gifts that capture the essence of local craftsmanship.
Quichua World Market
0.7 km
Explore authentic indigenous crafts and gifts at Quichua World Market in Ottawa's vibrant Byward Market, celebrating Native American heritage.
Canada In A Basket
0.7 km
Explore authentic Canadian souvenirs at Canada In A Basket, located in Ottawa's historic Byward Market, a must-visit for every traveler.
Eclection, ByWard Market
0.7 km
Explore Eclection in ByWard Market for unique fashion accessories, clothing, and local artisan crafts that capture the essence of Ottawa's creative spirit.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Stolen Goods Cocktail Bar
0.2 km
Experience the art of cocktail crafting at Stolen Goods Cocktail Bar in Ottawa, where innovation meets tradition in a vibrant nightlife setting.
D'Arcy McGee's
0.3 km
Discover D'Arcy McGee's in Ottawa, where Canadian flavors meet Irish hospitality in a vibrant pub atmosphere.
Swizzles
0.5 km
Discover the lively atmosphere and unique charm of Swizzles, a must-visit bar and grill in Ottawa's Byward Market, perfect for an unforgettable night out.
The Hyde
0.5 km
Experience Ottawa's cocktail scene at The Hyde, where innovative drinks and a chic atmosphere create the perfect night out in Byward Market.
The Brig Pub
0.6 km
Experience the lively atmosphere of The Brig Pub in Ottawa's Byward Market, where local flavors and community spirit come together.
Dominion Tavern
0.6 km
Discover the lively Dominion Tavern in Ottawa's Byward Market, where great drinks, live music, and a vibrant atmosphere await your arrival.
The Laff
0.6 km
Experience the energetic nightlife at The Laff, a top bar and live music venue in Ottawa's Byward Market, perfect for fun and entertainment.
The Lookout Bar
0.6 km
Discover Ottawa's nightlife at The Lookout Bar, where karaoke meets a lively atmosphere and breathtaking city views.
Aulde Dubliner & Pour House - ByWard Market, Ottawa ON
0.7 km
Discover the charm of Aulde Dubliner & Pour House, an Irish pub offering delicious food, a vibrant atmosphere, and live music in Ottawa’s ByWard Market.
Speakeasy Tapas Lounge
0.7 km
Experience the best of tapas and cocktails at Speakeasy Tapas Lounge in Ottawa's Byward Market, where vibrant flavors meet live music.
Apothecary Lounge
0.7 km
Experience Ottawa's vibrant nightlife at the Apothecary Lounge, where artisanal cocktails and fine wines create an unforgettable evening.
Heart & Crown - ByWard Market
0.7 km
Discover Heart & Crown, Ottawa's premier Irish pub in the lively ByWard Market, offering delicious food, drinks, and entertainment.
The Snug Pub
0.7 km
Experience the heart of Ottawa at The Snug Pub, your cozy bar in Byward Market with local flavors and a welcoming atmosphere.
Nan's Parlour
0.7 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and innovative cocktails at Nan's Parlour, a must-visit cocktail bar in Ottawa's Byward Market.
Clocktower Brew Pub - Rideau
0.8 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere and delicious craft beers at Clocktower Brew Pub - Rideau, a top culinary destination in Ottawa's Byward Market.
