Explore Ottawa's Hidden History with a Self-Guided Audio Tour
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Discover Ottawa’s hidden past with the Ottawa's Hidden History: A Self-Guided Audio Tour. Perfect for those who want to explore at their own pace, this tour takes you back to when Ottawa was a wild frontier filled with rioters, rogues, and disease. It’s a chance to see beyond the iconic Parliament Hill and museums, uncovering stories from the city’s early days as a rough lumber town.
As you walk through historic sites like Bytown’s old streets, Jeanne d’Arc Courtyard, and Sussex Drive, you’ll learn about the city’s transformation from lawless wilderness to Canada’s capital. The tour offers a rich mix of history, local legends, and fascinating backstories that bring Ottawa’s past vividly to life.
With lifetime access, offline maps, and the freedom to explore at your own pace, this self-guided tour makes discovering Ottawa’s hidden history easy and flexible. Whether you’re a history buff or just curious about the city’s roots, this experience offers a unique perspective on Ottawa’s evolution.
Frequently asked questions
How long does the Ottawa's Hidden History: A Self-Guided Audio Tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 50 minutes to 1 hour and 10 minutes.
In what languages is the tour available?
The tour is available in English.
Can I take this tour with a group?
Yes, the tour is private and suitable for groups of up to 15 people.
Is the tour suitable for all ages and physical fitness levels?
Absolutely. It's designed for adults aged 6 to 399 and is accessible for all fitness levels.
What do I need to participate in the tour?
You’ll need your smartphone and headphones. The tour includes offline access to audio, maps, and geodata, so no internet is required during your exploration.
Are there any additional costs during the tour?
Personal expenses for admission fees, transportation, food, and drinks are not included.
Free cancellation
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Reserve now
Check a date here, then finish booking with our partner. Payment options are confirmed at checkout.
Duration 50 minutes – 1 hour 10 min
Check availability to see start times.
Guided experience
English
Key facts
What's included
Included
- Unlimited, lifetime access to the tour, usable before and after your booking date
- The virtual playback option, allowing you to listen like an audiobook from anywhere
- Offline access to audio, maps, and geodata
- Flexibility to explore at your own pace with a self-guided GPS tour
- Directions to the starting point so the tour begins when you're in the right place
Not included
- Smartphone and headphones
- Personal expenses for admission fees not included during the tour
- Transportation
- Food and drinks
Itinerary
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Stop 1
Begin your tour at Major's Hill Park, paying tribute to Colonel John By at his statue overlooking the Ottawa River.
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Stop 2
Pass by the Rideau Canal, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and marvel of 19th-century engineering connecting Ottawa to Lake Ontario.
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Stop 3
Explore Major's Hill Park, offering panoramic views of the Ottawa River and Parliament Hill.
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Stop 4
Walk down York Street, passing the York Steps, important in early Bytown development.
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Stop 5
Pass the York Street Millennium Fountain, a modern symbol of Ottawa's ongoing growth.
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Stop 6
Discover the historic ByWard Market, one of Canada's oldest and largest markets filled with vendors, restaurants, and artisans.
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Stop 7
Learn about Rochon House, linked to Ottawa’s early lumber industry and cultural history.
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Stop 8
Explore the legacy of Élisabeth Bruyère, founder of Ottawa’s first hospital.
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Stop 9
Pass LaSalle Academy, a historic educational institution shaping Ottawa’s cultural scene.
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Stop 10
End your tour at Sussex Drive, viewing the Notre Dame Cathedral Basilica, a stunning example of Gothic Revival architecture.
Meeting point & pickup
Meet at the starting point
The tour begins at the entrance to Major's Hill Park on Mackenzie Avenue, just behind the Chateau Laurier Hotel. It starts directly opposite 555 Mackenzie Avenue, the Connaught Building.
Open in Google MapsCancellation & confirmation
Free cancellation
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
- 100% refund if cancelled at least 1 day before
- 0% refund if cancelled within 0–1 day
Instant confirmation
Your booking is confirmed immediately after checkout.
From $8.99 per person
- Free cancellation
- Secure checkout with our booking partner
