Ultimate Downtown Ottawa Walking Tour | See the Iconic Landmarks

Looking for an easy, scenic walking route through downtown Ottawa? This 5 km self-guided Ottawa walking tour includes top attractions like Parliament Hill, the Rideau Canal, and Major’s Hill Park — plus local food stops, photo ops, and seasonal tips. Whether you’re a visitor or planning an Ottawa staycation, it’s the perfect way to explore the capital on foot.

Updated for 2025: Many of these sights are still perfect for photography, evening strolls, or a casual Ottawa staycation. West Block and the Parliament lawn remain open, but Centre Block renovations continue.

Quick Facts: Downtown Ottawa Walking Tour

• Distance: ~5 km
• Time: ~1 hour walking, 2–3 hours with stops
• Highlights: Parliament Hill, Rideau Canal, War Memorial, photo spots
• Best time to go: Evening for golden hour and sunset views
• Park at City Hall to start

Ottawa Walking Tour Route Overview and Map

💡 Best Time for This Walk: May to October for full access and great weather. Go during golden hour for perfect photos.

Begin at City Hall and Confederation Park

Parking at City Hall is about $2 on evenings and weekends and almost always has capacity so it’s the perfect place to start. To get to City Hall you can: drive and park underground; take the bus and hop off at Confederation Park; or bike to lock up your bike outside. Walk across the street to Confederation Park and head east to the multi-use trail.

Visit the Rideau Canal Locks and Bytown Museum

Follow the Rideau Canal walk multi-use path to the Rideau Locks. This is a great spot to stop at the Bytown Museum or bring a picnic and sit by the locks to watch boats pass through. You can also grab a drink at La Terrasse but I recommend waiting until the end for an amazing sunset view.

Walk the Ottawa River Pathway for Iconic Views

By following the trail, you’ll catch a glimpse of some of Ottawa’s iconic views including: the Alexandra Bridge, the Museum of History (in Gatineau), the National Art Gallery and Nepean Point. There are a few benches for rest stops or stop along the river bank to enjoy the sounds of nature. Suggestion: This trail is also a beautiful bike ride in the warmer months.

Try the Staircase “Challenge”

I both wanted to look back for the view and needed to look back for a break. As part of the rehabilitation of the hill, the 298 stairs up from Parliament were recently (2019) reconstructed. I was very impressed at both the people walking and running up those stairs!

Explore Parliament Hill (Construction Note and Photo Ops)

The views from behind Parliament across the Ottawa River are majestic. The gazebo is a perfect setting for a picnic, to watch the sunset or to take a leisurely stroll.

Take a stroll around Parliament Hill (but note that Centre Block is under construction for the next 10-15 years). You can still see the Peace Tower (for now) and the newly renovated West Block. If you’re still feeling adventurous, grab a free tour ticket across the street to see West Block.

Wander Sparks Street and See the Ottawa Sign

There are tons or bars and restaurants to visit along Sparks Street and if you’re lucky you might happen upon Poutinefest, Ribfest, Winterlude, or another type of festival. Check out the Ottawa sign for a photo op.

Walk up Elgin Street to the War Memorial

Walk down Elgin Street to see the NAC and War Memorial. You can stop for a bite to eat at 1 Elgin Restaurant (currently open) or Equator Coffee. The Chamber’s Building is also an iconic historic downtown building.

End at Major’s Hill Park with Sunset Views

This was the best sunset I’ve seen in a while and you might be lucky enough on this Downtown Ottawa Walking Tour to be out when the sky is on fire! The shot below was taken from Chateau Laurier which leads to Major’s Hill Park.

Local Tips for Your Downtown Ottawa Walk

Where to Eat

Whether you’re fueling up before your walk or looking to relax with a meal after, downtown Ottawa has plenty of delicious options within walking distance of your route:

• 1 Elgin: A stylish Canadian restaurant inside the National Arts Centre with views of the canal. Great for brunch or dinner.
• Tavern on the Hill: A seasonal outdoor patio at Major’s Hill Park with gourmet hot dogs and one of the best sunset views in the city.
• Elgin Street Diner: A local late-night staple famous for poutine and comfort food.
• Equator Coffee (Elgin): Perfect for a quick espresso, oat milk latte, or fair trade snack before hitting the trail.

If you’re walking during a festival, food trucks or pop-up vendors often appear along Sparks Street or near the War Memorial.

Parking and Public Transit

• Parking:
  • Ottawa City Hall underground garage offers affordable parking (~$2 evenings & weekends).
  • Metered parking is available on nearby streets, but can be limited during peak hours.
• Transit:
  • Ride OC Transpo and get off at Rideau Station (O-Train Line 1) or Elgin Street/Confederation Park for easy walking access to the start of the route.
  • Bring a Presto card or exact cash for bus fare if not using the O-Train.
• Biking:
  • There are bike racks at City Hall, Major’s Hill Park, and throughout the downtown core.
  • Use e-scooter rentals in warmer months for a fun alternative.

Seasonal Notes and Local Events

• Spring: Be mindful of flooding along the Ottawa River Pathway. Trail closures can happen due to high water levels.
• Summer: Expect crowds near Parliament and Sparks Street during Canada Day, Ribfest, or Busker Festival. Great vibe but plan ahead.
• Fall: Gorgeous fall foliage along the canal and behind Parliament. Ideal photo season!
• Winter: The Rideau Canal may be frozen and walkable! Check if it’s open for skating. The Winterlude Festival also brings ice sculptures and events to Confederation Park.
• Year-Round:
  • The Centennial Flame burns 24/7 in front of Parliament.
  • Major’s Hill Park and La Terrasse offer the best golden hour and sunset views over the Ottawa River.

Read more: Fantastic Ottawa Staycation for the First Time Visitor