Parliament Hill for Free

Parliament Hill is a must-see for any visitor to Ottawa. The neo-gothic Parliament Buildings are visually stunning, and so is their setting on a bluff high above the majestic Ottawa River. And visitors can take it all in for free. Parliament Hill is at its best in summer. If you just want to amble, take a walk around the buildings. You’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views of Ottawa and Gatineau. You can do a self-guided tour and discover, in addition to the views, the statues, public art, monuments, Centennial Flame and famed cats of Parliament Hill. If you’re there in the morning, take in the colourful Changing the Guard ceremony, which takes place daily at 10 a.m. between June 28 and August 28. If you’re there on summer evenings, a sound and light show called Mosaika explores Canada’s physical, historical and cultural landscapes (July 8 – September 12). And you can also arrange free tours of Parliament, including a visit to the observation deck in the Peace Tower. Keep in mind, though, that this is a working building and tours are subject to the business of Canada’s parliamentarians.