Discover the Historic Rideau Canal in Ottawa
Explore the Rideau Canal, Ottawa's iconic waterway, where history meets recreation in a stunning natural setting.
The Rideau Canal, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a must-visit for tourists in Ottawa. Experience its stunning beauty, rich history, and recreational activities year-round.
A brief summary to Rideau Canal, Locks 1 - 8 - Ottawa
- Ottawa, Byward Market - Parliament Hill, Ontario, K1A 0A4, CA
- +1613-283-5170
- Visit website
- Monday 9 am-6 pm
- Tuesday 9 am-6 pm
- Wednesday 9 am-6 pm
- Thursday 9 am-6 pm
- Friday 9 am-7 pm
- Saturday 9 am-7 pm
- Sunday 9 am-7 pm
Local tips
- Visit during the winter to experience the famous skating rink, but remember to dress warmly!
- Explore the nearby parks and trails for a scenic walk or bike ride along the canal.
- Check for local events or festivals happening along the canal for a more immersive experience.
- Bring a camera to capture the picturesque views, especially during the fall foliage season.
- Consider taking a guided boat tour to learn more about the canal's history and significance.
Getting There
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Walking
From any location within the Rideau Canal area, head towards the nearest pathway that leads to the canal. If you are near the ByWard Market, walk south on Sussex Drive towards the canal. Keep walking until you reach the canal's edge, then turn left. Follow the pathway along the canal until you reach Locks 1 - 8. The entire walk should take around 10-20 minutes, depending on your starting point.
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Public Transit
If you are further away and prefer public transit, you can take the OC Transpo bus. Look for bus routes that stop near the ByWard Market or Parliament Hill. Routes 1, 7, and 14 are good options. Take the bus to the nearest stop to the canal (e.g., 'Parliament' or 'Rideau Centre') and walk towards the canal. From the bus stop, it should take about 10-15 minutes to walk to Locks 1 - 8. Note that a one-way bus fare is approximately CAD 3.75.
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Biking
If you have access to a bike, you can ride along the designated bike paths that follow the Rideau Canal. Make your way to the canal’s pathway and ride south. There are bike rental services available around the ByWard Market if you don’t have your own bike. This option allows for a scenic ride, taking about 10 minutes to reach Locks 1 - 8.
Discover more about Rideau Canal, Locks 1 - 8 - Ottawa
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
The Flags of Canada
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Sir Wilfrid Laurier Statue
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Central Chambers National Historic Site of Canada
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The Connaught Building
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1 Canal Ln
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Rideau Canal Celtic Cross
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Statue of Sir George-Étienne Cartier
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Rideau Canal
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Parliament Hill Square
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ByWard Market Plaza
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Lieutenant Colonel John By Fountain
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Cobblestone Tours
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National Aboriginal Veterans Monument
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Statue of Sir John A. Macdonald
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Confederation Table Map
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Unmissable attractions to see
Valiants Memorial
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Plaza Bridge
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Famous Five Statue
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RentABike
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Rideau Canal Historic Plaque
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The National War Memorial
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Rideau Canal Cruise - Boats, Sailing and Water Tours
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Tomb of the Unknown Soldier
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Fairmont Château Laurier
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Senate of Canada Building
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Confederation Square
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Ottawa Boat Cruise : Ekeau Canal Cruise Departure
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Lady Dive Tours
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Haunted Walk of Ottawa
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East Block
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Essential places to dine
WILFRID'S
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La Terrasse
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Milestones
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Metropolitain Brasserie Restaurant
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Riviera Ottawa
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1 Elgin Restaurant
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Social Restaurant + Lounge
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The Shore Club
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The Clarendon Tavern
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Oz Kafe
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Sidedoor
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Restaurant e18hteen
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Play Food & Wine
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Corazon De Maiz
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The Grand Pizzeria and Bar
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Galerie d'art Vincent
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The Hotel Gift Shop
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Parliament Souvenier And News
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Hudson's Bay
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STUNNING Women's Fashion + Accessories, ByWard Market, Ottawa
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CF Rideau Centre
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Made In Canada Gifts
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OXXO SILK AND GIFT
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Quichua World Market
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Canada In A Basket
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Eclection, ByWard Market
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Irving Rivers, ByWard Market
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Crazy Moose Clothing Co
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Laras
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Schad - Women's Fashion Boutique
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
D'Arcy McGee's
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The Hyde
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Stolen Goods Cocktail Bar
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The Brig Pub
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The Laff
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Dominion Tavern
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The Lookout Bar
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Clocktower Brew Pub - Rideau
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Apothecary Lounge
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Speakeasy Tapas Lounge
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Heart & Crown - ByWard Market
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Nan's Parlour
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The Snug Pub
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TripAdvisor Canada
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Avant-Garde Bar & Gift Shop
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