Top reasons to visit Rideau Canal
- Scenic Canal Rides: Enjoy picturesque views and relaxing boat rides along the historic Rideau Canal.
- Winter Skating: Experience the world's largest skating rink during winter, a must-visit attraction.
- Rich Cultural Heritage: Explore historic sites and immerse yourself in Ottawa's vibrant culture.
- Outdoor Adventures: Engage in various activities like running, biking, and photography in stunning landscapes.
- Diverse Accommodations: Find a range of lodging options, from cozy B&Bs to business-friendly hotels.
Find great hotels near Rideau Canal
Experience the charm of Rideau Canal with a variety of accommodation options tailored to suit every traveler. From cozy bed and breakfasts to business-friendly hotels, you’ll find welcoming spaces that cater to your needs. Whether you’re searching for pet-friendly stays or LGBTQIA-friendly environments, the area offers a range of choices. Discover the best hotels near Rideau Canal and enjoy a memorable visit to this beautiful region in Ottawa.
- The Business Inn: Ideal for business travelers, The Business Inn offers a practical and comfortable lodging experience just 1.6km from the scenic Rideau Canal. Known for its functional amenities, the hotel features complimentary high-speed Wi-Fi, a well-equipped business center, and spacious rooms designed for productivity. Guests appreciate the convenience of on-site laundry facilities and a fitness center, ensuring both work and wellness are prioritized during their stay. With a focus on comfort and utility, this hotel is a great choice for those traveling for work.
- Lord Elgin Hotel: A charming 4-star property, Lord Elgin Hotel is perfect for families and eco-conscious travelers looking for a blend of comfort and sustainability, located a mile from Rideau Canal. This eco-certified hotel features amenities such as free cribs for families and a welcoming atmosphere for children. Guests enjoy the upscale dining options, modern fitness center, and proximity to local attractions. The Lord Elgin Hotel is committed to providing a family-friendly environment while promoting eco-friendly practices, making it an excellent choice for conscientious travelers.
- Fairmont Chateau Laurier: This luxurious 4.5-star hotel is situated two miles from Rideau Canal in the heart of the shopping district, making it a premier choice for business and LGBTQIA travelers. Fairmont Chateau Laurier combines elegance with convenience, offering high-end amenities such as a full-service spa, fine dining restaurants, and a business center. With its commitment to inclusivity and outstanding service, guests can enjoy a sophisticated atmosphere while being close to vibrant shopping and cultural attractions. It's an ideal destination for those seeking both leisure and luxury.
Where to stay near Rideau Canal
Exploring the Rideau Canal offers a delightful experience, with friendly locals and a family-friendly atmosphere. The nearby cities boast convenient downtown locations, ensuring easy access to attractions. Enjoy a romantic stroll along the canal or engage in business meetings in vibrant neighborhoods. Don't miss the beautiful scenery of Lake Ontario, perfect for budget-conscious travelers seeking memorable adventures. Your visit promises to be a perfect blend of relaxation and exploration.
- Ottawa: As the capital city of Canada, Ottawa is a vibrant metropolis located a mile from Rideau Canal. This city offers a range of experiences, from family-friendly activities to outdoor adventures. Visitors flock to Ottawa year-round, with peak travel times from July to September. Here, you can explore historic civic government buildings, enjoy sports events at local stadiums, and visit modern colleges and universities. The city's shopping malls and centers provide ample opportunities for retail therapy, making it a must-see destination during your stay.
- Gatineau: Just two miles from Rideau Canal, Gatineau is a charming city that attracts visitors looking for romantic getaways, family fun, and cultural experiences. Like Ottawa, Gatineau experiences peak visitor numbers from July to September. The city is known for its relaxing body treatment and spa venues, making it a great place to unwind. Don’t miss the chance to visit its historic civic government buildings, sports facilities, and the fascinating history museum, which offers a glimpse into the region's past. Gatineau is perfect for those seeking a blend of leisure and exploration.
- Downtown Ottawa: Located two miles from Rideau Canal, Downtown Ottawa is a bustling neighborhood that encapsulates the essence of city life. With a strong focus on culture, families, and education, this area attracts visitors year-round, peaking in the summer months. You'll find a variety of shopping malls and centers nearby, as well as historic civic government buildings and sports stadiums. Downtown Ottawa offers a dynamic atmosphere with rich cultural offerings, making it an exciting place to explore during your vacation.
Things to do near Rideau Canal
Discover the vibrant charm of Rideau Canal, where you can explore Ottawa's rich culture, enjoy a scenic canal ride, and experience the famous skating rink during winter. Consider a delightful day trip to soak in the picturesque views, or join a photo tour to capture the stunning landscapes. With options for sports and running nearby, there's something for everyone to enjoy at this iconic Canadian destination.
Shopping
For shopping near Rideau Canal, visit Byward Market Square, a vibrant public market just 3.2km away. The Rideau Centre, also 3.2km away, offers a mix of entertainment and family-friendly options. Sparks Street, 3.2km away, features city vibes with shops for all ages.
Recreation
TD Place Stadium offers an energetic atmosphere for sports enthusiasts, located 644m from Rideau Canal. For relaxation, Kōena Spa, situated 8.0km away, provides rejuvenating body treatments. The Ottawa River Parkway, 3.2km from the canal, is perfect for leisurely strolls amidst tranquil natural scenery.
Adventure
Experience thrilling adventures at Camp Fortune, located 17.7km from Rideau Canal, where you can enjoy skiing amidst stunning landscapes. For more excitement, visit Meech Ski Lift, also 17.7km away, offering excellent ski opportunities. Parc Pee Wee Park, located 17.7km from Rideau Canal, is perfect for skiing and outdoor sports.
Nightlife
The nightlife around Rideau Canal offers a mix of family fun and cultural experiences. Visit Midway Family Fun Park for arcade adventures, or enjoy a romantic evening at the Great Canadian Theatre Company. For more excitement, try Tag Zone for indoor paintless paintball with family vibes.
*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Rideau Canal
To save money on your trip to Rideau Canal, visit during the off-peak months of March or December to January, when prices are lower. Book your stay on a Monday for the best rates, avoiding the more expensive Saturdays. Use Expedia to find eco-friendly hotel options and sort by price to discover the best deals. Consider bundling your hotel, flights, and activities for additional savings. Lastly, explore the area on foot to cut down on transportation costs while enjoying the scenic views.
- The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Rideau Canal are March and December to January, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to May to June and September, where prices are slightly higher.
- The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Rideau Canal is Monday. The most expensive day to stay around Rideau Canal is Saturday.
- Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilize Expedia’s search tool to refine your preferences, such as your budget, preferred location, and the type of hotel you desire. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified option will showcase sustainable and eco-friendly hotels that are currently available. To find the best prices and deals, simply sort the price filter from low to high.
- Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel reservation for the Rideau Canal with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.
Find the best attractions near Rideau Canal
Whether you're seeking culture, outdoor adventures, or family experiences, Rideau Canal in Ontario offers a variety of attractions. Explore historic sites such as the Civic Government Building and local universities, visit the Rideau Canal Locks, and enjoy the scenic Ottawa River. Don't miss the Rideau Canal National Historic Site, where you can immerse yourself in the region's rich heritage while discovering nearby points of interest.
- Parliament Hill: A stunning example of Gothic Revival architecture, Parliament Hill serves as the heart of Canadian democracy. Located 3.2km from Rideau Canal, visitors can explore its historic grounds, witness the Changing of the Guard ceremony, and enjoy guided tours that delve into Canada’s rich political history.
- University of Ottawa: This vibrant campus, just 1.6km from Rideau Canal, is one of Canada's oldest universities. With beautiful architecture and a diverse student body, visitors can appreciate its cultural events, art galleries, and the stunning campus setting.
- Rogers Centre Ottawa: Situated 3.2km away, this dynamic event venue is perfect for sports fans and concert-goers alike. Experience a range of events, from thrilling hockey games to live music performances, all within a modern facility that showcases the city’s energetic spirit.
Best time to go to Rideau Canal
The best time to visit Rideau Canal can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature around Rideau Canal falls in July, when visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. The coolest average temperature around Rideau Canal falls in January, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain.
The nearest major airports for your trip to Rideau Canal
To reach Rideau Canal, the primary airport is Ottawa Macdonald-Cartier International Airport (YOW), situated 9.7km away. Nearby hotel options include the 5-star Fairmont Chateau Laurier Gold Experience and the 4.5-star Fairmont Chateau Laurier, both about 11.3km from the airport, as well as the 4.5-star Hilton Lac-Leamy, located 14.5km away. Other airports include Massena International Airport (MSS), 83.7km away, with hotels like Blue Spruce Motel and Super 8 by Wyndham, both 3.2km from MSS. Additionally, Ogdensburg International Airport (OGS) is 82.1km from Rideau Canal, offering nearby accommodations like Sherman Inn, just 1.4km away.