Ottawa Small Group Walking Tour with Rideau Canal Cruise

Your Ottawa adventure begins with meeting our friendly, expert guide at the Giant Spider sculpture named “Maman” in front of the National Gallery of Canada. Created by artist Louise Bourgeois, this towering piece of art depicts a spider carrying a sac filled with marble eggs.

From there you will make your way to the ByWard Market, passing by the stunning Royal Mint and Notre Dame Cathedral Basilica. The Mint stands as a symbol of Canadian craftsmanship, while the Cathedral’s Gothic Revival architecture will leave you in awe.

As you arrive in the ByWard Market, you will step into a historic and vibrant neighbourhood filled with outdoor market stalls, cozy cafés, exciting restaurants and local artisan shops. The Market also features several cultural and historic institutions, providing you a glimpse into the city's rich heritage and contemporary culture.

Continuing on, you’ll follow your guide to the continuously burning Centennial Flame, a meaningful landmark in front of the Parliament Buildings that honours 100 years of Canadian Confederation.

Along the way, you’ll pass by the Fairmont Château Laurier, a grand hotel that resembles a French château and adds a touch of old-world charm to the cityscape.

For the final leg of your Ottawa sightseeing adventure, you will board a relaxing Rideau Canal Cruise. This peaceful boat ride offers you a fresh perspective on Ottawa’s downtown area and the iconic Rideau Canal, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Sit back and relax as you float along. You will see some of the city’s most scenic views and hidden gems from the water. It’s the perfect ending to a day of discovery.

As the cruise begins, your guide will say goodbye, and you’ll continue your experience on the water at your own pace leaving you with memories of a tour that truly brings Ottawa to life.

• Stroll past ‘Maman’ the giant spider sculpture, the Royal Canadian Mint, and Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica.
• Explore the vibrant ByWard Market.
• See the iconic Centennial Flame on Parliament Hill and the historic Fairmont Château Laurier Hotel.
• Cruise along the scenic Rideau Canal.

• Fully narrated, guided tour for up to 7 people with an experienced, entertaining guide.
• Rideau Canal cruise admission (seasonal).

• 3.5 hours

• Available May - October with tours daily Monday - Sunday *
  *Subject to availability

• Should the Rideau Canal Cruise not be available on the day of your tour it will be replaced with admission to the National Gallery of Canada.
• A small-group experience for a more personal tour (maximum 7 people).
• Meeting point: 380 Sussex Dr, Ottawa VIEW MAP
• The tour operates rain or shine. If it’s cancelled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.
• Please wear comfortable clothing and dress for the weather.
• This tour is wheelchair accessible.
• Please arrive at the meeting location at least 10 minutes prior to the tour start time.
• Tour guide gratuities are not included, optional and always appreciated

How To Book Your Experience