Ottawa Tourism is committed to showcasing accessible travel options so all tourists can enjoy the many incredible experiences Canada’s Capital City has to offer.
Getting to and from Ottawa
Ottawa International Airport (YOW) is RHF Accessibility Certified Gold by the Rick Hansen Foundation. The Airport Authority is committed to providing a safe, dignified and welcoming environment for everyone. Find out more about the airport’s commitment to accessibility and features including accessible parking, washrooms, wheelchair and mobility assistance and services for people with visual or hearing impairments.
The airport has adopted the Sunflower Program that allows individuals with a hidden disability to voluntarily share that they may need a little extra help, time and understanding while at the airport. Travelers can request a Sunflower lanyard at the Traveler’s Aid desk in either terminal or ticket counter.
Public transportation
Check out the Getting around page, which highlights a few ways to get around the city to help you experience and explore all that Ottawa has to offer. This is where you’ll find out what you need to know on accessibility in Ottawa. OC Transpo buses and the O-Train are fully accessible and include allocated spaces for customers using assistive or mobility devices.
Para Transpo is OC Transpo’s shared-ride, book-in-advance service for eligible customers who are unable to take conventional transit due to a disability. Visitors who are eligible for specialized transit in their community can request temporary access. Read more on visitor eligibility and how to use this service.
Driving and parking
Most car rental companies can provide accessible vehicles provided the request is made in advance. Visit The Airport Authority’s full list of car rental companies with an outline of their accessibility features.
Drivers and/or passengers who have a valid Ontario Accessible Parking Permit (which must be clearly displayed within the vehicle) are entitled to special parking privileges. Visit the City of Ottawa’s Parking permits webpage for information.
Where to stay
The Where to stay page includes a full list of the Ottawa Tourism accommodation partners and their locations. When booking your stay, click the ‘Amenities’ menu to choose the features you’re looking for in your accessible room and see if the hotel is certified by the Rick Hansen Foundation Accessible Tourism Certification.
What to see and do
AccessNow and Wheel Map both provide interactive maps with a full list of businesses, from restaurants to hotels to attractions, with information on their accessibility.
All national museums in Ottawa as well as the National Arts Centre are barrier-free, and the Canada Science and Technology Museum is RHF Accessibility Certified Gold.
Parliament facilities are accessible to wheelchairs and service animals, and tours with American Sign Language (ASL) or Langue des signes québécoise (LSQ) interpretation can be requested. Take a look at the Plan Your Visit page for information and to make arrangements.
Miracle League of Ottawa is a fully accessible and inclusive outdoor recreational facility offering both competitive and recreational baseball programming for children and young adults, recreational, co-ed and inclusive wheelchair softball and all ages Beep Kickball (blind soccer-baseball).
Outdoor Access
Ottawa offers an abundance of outdoor pathways that are accessible to all. The UNESCO Heritage Site Rideau Canal offers two lanes of pathways that are accessible from various points in the city’s core.
Three of Ottawa’s beaches are accessible by wheelchairs throughout the summer. Learn more here.
