Free tour

FREE Ottawa Historical Highlights Walking Tour of Ottawa

4.74

Good(23)

Ottawa

Duration: 2 hours and 15 minutes

Languages: English

Guru: Craig

PRO

Verified quality

Registered on 25 April 2024

Hi everyone. My name is Craig and I am a high school history & politics teacher, part time professor at the Faculty of Education at Ottawa and the owner and creator of Ottawa Walking Tours all the way back in 2006! I created the company because I have lived and travelled all over the world and I ALWAYS take walking tours as it is the best way to learn and discover more about the city or region you are visiting. When I returned home to Canada, I thought "I could do that in Ottawa!" and rest as they say is history! Our guides are knowledgeable, friendly and eager to show you around our beautiful and amazing city. I hope. you book a tour as we cannot wait to meet you!

Free reservation and cancellation

Pay-what-you-want tour, no set price, reservation and cancellation are free

Tour description

Discover Ottawa – One Story at a Time!

Canada’s bilingual capital is best explored on foot, and there’s no better way to uncover its charm than with our captivating FREE walking tour!

Ottawa is full of iconic landmarks and hidden gems—but history here isn’t just about dates and monuments. It’s about people. Our engaging tours focus on the fascinating individuals who shaped the nation, bringing the city’s past to life with memorable stories, fun facts, and a few surprises along the way.

Led by a professional and knowledgeable guide, you’ll stroll through Ottawa’s vibrant downtown core, visiting the city’s most famous sites and secret corners. Highlights include:

The grounds of Parliament Hill

The National War Memorial & Tomb of the Unknown Soldier

Historic Sparks Street & Sussex Drive
Peaceful Major’s Hill Park
The majestic Château Laurier
The UNESCO World Heritage Rideau Canal
The Prime Minister’s Offices
The lively ByWard Market
…and more!

Whether you’re a curious visitor or a local looking to rediscover your city, this tour is the perfect blend of entertainment, education, and discovery. You’ll leave with a deeper appreciation of Ottawa’s colourful history, its larger-than-life political characters, and its stunning architecture.

Plus, we love sharing insider tips! From the best pubs and restaurants to must-see attractions and overlooked treasures, we’re happy to help you make the most of your time in Ottawa.

Join us for an unforgettable experience—walk with us, learn with us, and fall in love with Ottawa!

Highlights

What will we see on this tour?

Meeting point:

96 Sparks St., Ottawa, ON, Canada

Your Guru Walks guide will meet you at the Bridgehead Coffee located at 96 Sparks Street, corner of Sparks & Metcalfe Streets, 1 block south of Parliament Hill and directly across the street from the "Bear Catching Fish" statue. Look for our large sign and our guide will be there holding a red umbrella. Please check in with your guide before the tour begins so we know you have arrived. You can use the bathrooms inside the coffee shop before we start or grab a drink for the stroll around town.

Outside visit

89 Sparks Street

Tour Starting/Meeting Point Bear Catching Fish statue Grab a pre-tour coffee or cold drink at the Bridgehead Coffee across the street and then join the tour!

Entry not included

Parliament Hill

Outside visit

National War Memorial of Canada

Be impressed by the incredible Memorial that honours Canada's fallen soldiers

How much does this tour cost?

Free tours do not have a set price, instead, each person gives the guru at the end the amount they consider appropriate (amounts usually range from €10 to $50 depending on satisfaction with the tour).