Ottawa Self-Guided Audio Tour
5 Reviews
3.60 out of 5 stars Based on 5 reviews collected by City Boat Tours and TripAdvisor
|
Ottawa, Canada
3 to 9 hours (approx.)
Mobile ticket
Instant confirmation
Overview
Discover Ottawa's compelling stories through an immersive audio experience that puts you in complete control of your journey. Unlike traditional group tours that rush you through predetermined schedules, this self-guided adventure allows you to linger at captivating sites, skip attractions that don't interest you, and revisit fascinating locations as many times as you wish. Our expertly crafted narration unveils exclusive historical insights and hidden stories that even locals rarely know, delivered through crystal-clear audio by professional storytellers whose engaging voices bring Ottawa's past to life with remarkable clarity and warmth. This premium audio experience transforms ordinary sightseeing into an extraordinary journey of discovery, offering superior value compared to expensive guided tours while providing the authentic, personalized exploration that makes travel truly memorable.
What's Included
- Private access links validity up to 6 days
- Private access link to the audio guide in one playlist for 12 attractions
- Private access link to a tour itinerary map of 12 attractions with audio guide individually
- Entrance Fees (wherever it's necessary)
- Transportations (pick-up and drop-off)
Meeting Location
Meeting point
Ottawa
ON, Canada
Detailed check-in instructions, including the exact address, are provided with your booking confirmation.
End point
This activity ends back at the meeting point.
What To Expect
Ottawa Train Station
Step into Canada's transportation heritage at this architectural marvel that has welcomed millions of travelers since 1966. Your audio guide reveals the fascinating stories behind the station's modernist design and its role as the gateway to the nation's capital. Discover how this hub connects not just cities but cultures, and learn about the hidden details in the building's structure that most passengers never notice. Explore the station's connection to Canada's railway expansion and hear tales of famous passengers who passed through these halls. The self-paced format allows you to appreciate the building's impressive scale and intricate details while uncovering the engineering marvels that make modern rail travel possible in one of North America's most efficient transportation networks.
20 minutes • Admission Ticket Free
National War Memorial
Canada's most solemn tribute stands majestically at the heart of the capital, honoring those who made the ultimate sacrifice for freedom. Your exclusive audio commentary unveils the powerful symbolism embedded in every element of this granite masterpiece, from the triumphant arch to the bronze figures that seem to march through time itself. Learn about the memorial's creator, Vernon March, and the extraordinary circumstances surrounding its construction and dedication. Discover the hidden meanings behind the sculptural details and hear moving stories of the ceremonies that have taken place here. The self-guided experience allows you to stand in respectful contemplation while absorbing the profound significance of this sacred space where Canada remembers its heroes.
20 minutes • Admission Ticket Free
Tomb of the Unknown Soldier
Honor falls upon this sacred ground where Canada's unknown warrior rests eternal guard over the nation's memories. Your audio guide shares the deeply moving story of how this anonymous soldier was chosen to represent all who never returned home, and reveals the poignant details of the repatriation ceremony that brought him to Canadian soil. Discover the significance of the bronze inscription and learn about the soil from France's battlefields that forms part of this hallowed ground. Hear about the ceremonial protocols and the touching tributes left by visitors from around the world. The intimate nature of self-guided exploration allows you to pay personal respects while understanding the profound symbolism that makes this site one of Canada's most emotionally powerful memorials.
20 minutes • Admission Ticket Free
Parliament Hill and Buildings
Gothic Revival architecture reaches its pinnacle in these magnificent structures that embody Canada's democratic spirit and national identity. Your audio narrative unlocks the secrets behind the intricate stonework, revealing how skilled craftsmen created these masterpieces using techniques that span centuries. Explore the fascinating stories of political drama, historical decisions, and architectural triumphs that have shaped the nation within these walls. Learn about the symbolism carved into every gargoyle, the hidden chambers most visitors never see, and the restoration efforts that preserve this heritage for future generations. The freedom of self-paced exploration allows you to marvel at architectural details while absorbing the weight of history that permeates every stone of Canada's most important political landmark.
20 minutes • Admission Ticket Free
Peace Tower
Soaring 92 meters above the capital, this iconic spire serves as both timekeeper and symbol of Canada's commitment to peace worldwide. Your exclusive audio commentary reveals the tower's dual purpose as a memorial to those lost in the Great War and a beacon of hope for future generations. Discover the fascinating mechanics of the 53-bell carillon and learn about the master craftsmen who created this musical marvel that serenades the city daily. Hear about the Memorial Chamber housed within and the Books of Remembrance that honor Canada's fallen. The self-guided format allows you to look up in wonder while understanding the engineering achievements and symbolic significance that make this tower an enduring testament to Canadian values and remembrance.
20 minutes • Admission Ticket Free
Notre Dame Basilica
Magnificent spires pierce the Ottawa skyline, marking Canada's oldest and most beautiful Catholic cathedral, where faith and artistry converge in breathtaking harmony. Your audio guide unveils the remarkable story of this architectural gem, from its humble wooden predecessor to the stunning Gothic Revival masterpiece that stands today. Discover the intricate details of the hand-carved altar, the brilliant stained glass windows that bathe the interior in celestial light, and the acoustic properties that make this space perfect for sacred music. Learn about the European craftsmen who traveled to Canada to create these masterworks and hear stories of the countless ceremonies that have blessed this sacred space. Self-paced exploration allows you to appreciate the spiritual atmosphere while marveling at artistic achievements that rival Europe's greatest cathedrals.
20 minutes • Admission Ticket Free
National Gallery of Canada
Glass and granite create a stunning contemporary cathedral for Canadian art, where the nation's creative soul finds its most prestigious expression. Your audio experience reveals how architect Moshe Safdie designed this architectural marvel to complement rather than compete with the historic buildings surrounding it. Discover the gallery's world-renowned collection of Canadian art and learn about the Indigenous works that tell stories spanning thousands of years of cultural expression. Hear fascinating tales about controversial acquisitions, hidden masterpieces in storage, and the conservation efforts that preserve artistic treasures for future generations. The flexibility of self-guided touring allows you to appreciate the building's innovative design while understanding how this institution shapes Canada's cultural identity and artistic legacy.
20 minutes • Admission Ticket Free
Royal Canadian Mint
Precious metals transform into legal tender within these walls, where the artistry of coin-making reaches extraordinary heights of precision and beauty. Your exclusive audio commentary reveals the fascinating process of creating currency that circulates worldwide, from initial design concepts to the final striking of each coin. Discover the security measures that protect these valuable operations and learn about the innovative techniques that make Canadian coins among the world's most advanced and counterfeiting-resistant. Hear stories about commemorative coins, limited editions, and the artistic competitions that determine which designs become part of Canada's numismatic heritage. The self-paced format allows you to imagine the intricate processes while appreciating the craftsmanship that makes Canadian currency a symbol of national pride and technological excellence.
20 minutes • Admission Ticket Free
Canadian War Museum
Regeneration Hall houses one of the world's most comprehensive collections of military artifacts, where Canada's complex relationship with conflict unfolds through powerful storytelling and immersive exhibits. Your audio guide reveals the human stories behind the uniforms, weapons, and vehicles that span centuries of military history. Discover how innovative display techniques bring historical events to life and learn about the painstaking research that ensures accuracy in every exhibit. Hear about the museum's role in preserving veteran stories and its commitment to presenting war's realities without glorification. The freedom of self-guided exploration allows you to process these profound historical lessons at your own emotional pace while gaining deeper understanding of how military experiences have shaped Canadian society and values.
20 minutes • Admission Ticket Free
Canadian Museum of Nature
Victoria Memorial Museum Building shelters four billion years of natural history, where prehistoric giants and contemporary conservation efforts share space in Canada's most comprehensive natural science institution. Your audio narrative unlocks the secrets behind the museum's most spectacular specimens, revealing how paleontologists piece together ancient ecosystems from fossilized fragments. Discover the cutting-edge research happening behind the scenes and learn about the expeditions that bring new discoveries to public attention. Hear fascinating stories about specimen preparation, the dedication of field researchers, and the museum's role in understanding climate change through natural history. Self-paced touring allows you to wonder at prehistoric marvels while appreciating the ongoing scientific work that makes this institution a leader in natural history education and research.
20 minutes • Admission Ticket Free
Rideau Canal National Historic Site
Waterway engineering reaches artistic heights in this UNESCO World Heritage masterpiece, where 19th-century ingenuity created a transportation marvel that continues to enchant visitors worldwide. Your exclusive audio guide reveals the extraordinary story of Colonel John By and the thousands of workers who carved this canal through wilderness and rock using only hand tools and determination. Discover the military strategies that necessitated this waterway's construction and learn about the locks system that still operates using original mechanisms. Hear tales of the hardships endured during construction, the communities that flourished along the canal's banks, and the transformation from military necessity to recreational treasure. The flexibility of self-guided exploration allows you to appreciate both the engineering accomplishments and the natural beauty that makes this waterway a symbol of human achievement.
20 minutes • Admission Ticket Free
Canada Aviation and Space Museum
Hangars house humanity's dreams of flight, where Canadian aviation achievements soar alongside international aerospace marvels in one of the world's finest aeronautical collections. Your audio experience reveals the stories behind legendary aircraft, from bush planes that opened the Canadian frontier to cutting-edge jets that defend North American airspace. Discover the contributions of Canadian innovators who advanced aviation technology and learn about the pilots whose courage pushed the boundaries of what seemed possible. Hear about restoration projects that bring vintage aircraft back to pristine condition and the ongoing research that keeps aviation history alive for future generations. Self-paced exploration allows you to marvel at these mechanical marvels while understanding how Canadian aviation achievements helped connect a vast nation and contributed to global aerospace advancement.
20 minutes • Admission Ticket Free
Additional Info
- Confirmation is instant and will be received at time of booking
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- 1. Receive Access Links: On your selected date of travel, before your starting time, you'll receive an email containing two important links for your audio guide.
- 2. Audio Content (Link 1): Click on our secure SoundCloud web link to access the audio guides. You can listen to individual attraction guides or the entire tour to plan your visit. This allows you to familiarize yourself with the content before or during your tour.
- 3. Interactive Map (Link 2): Use our secure Google My Maps link to locate all attractions on an interactive map. Each point on the map corresponds to a stop on the tour and links directly to its audio guide.
- 4. Flexible Exploration: As you explore the city use the map to navigate between stops. At each location, simply click on the corresponding point to play the relevant audio guide.
- 5. Plan Your Route: You can use both links to plan your route in advance, deciding which attractions you want to prioritize or if you want to follow the suggested order of the tour.
- 6. Customer Support: If you have any questions about accessing or using the audio guide, please don't hesitate to contact us. We're here to ensure you have a smooth and enjoyable experience
- Remember, this self-guided tour allows you to explore at your own pace. Feel free to take breaks, spend more time at your favourite locations, or even split the tour across multiple days. The flexibility of our audio guide ensures you can tailor the experience to your preferences and schedule.
Frequently Asked Questions
(6)Q: What is the cancellation policy for the Ottawa Self-Guided Audio Tour?
Cancellation Policy
This tour is non-refundable and cannot be changed for any reason. If you cancel or ask for an amendment, the amount you paid will not be refunded.
Still have questions?
We're here to help.
Activity code: C-18568P127
Reviews
3.60
5 reviews
Average 3.60 out of 5 stars based on 5 traveler reviews collected by City Boat Tours and partner sites such as Cool Destinations and TripAdvisor
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Additional Info
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Frequently Asked Questions (6)
The answers provided below were previously given in response to questions from City Boat Tours customers.
Filter by:
Q:
What is the cancellation policy for the Ottawa Self-Guided Audio Tour?
A:Apr 2025
This tour is non-refundable and cannot be changed for any reason. If you cancel or ask for an amendment, the amount you paid will not be refunded.
Q:
What's included in the price?
A:
Apr 2025
The following is included:
- Private access links validity up to 6 days.
- Private access link to the audio guide in one playlist for 12 attractions.
- Private access link to a tour itinerary map of 12 attractions with audio guide individually.
The following is NOT included:
- Entrance Fees (wherever it's necessary).
- Transportations (pick-up and drop-off).
Q:
What is the minimum age for this tour?
A:
There is no minimum age for this tour, so bring your wee one along for an adventure. This tour requires at least one adult to accompany children..
Apr 2025
Q:
My date is not available in the calendar, I am just checking to see if it is available?
A:
If a date or time is not listed on the calendar, it’s sold out or unavailable for another reason. Support cannot assist further if a date or time is not on the calendar.
If you find a date and time that works for you, book it NOW because things always sell out at this time of year.
Apr 2025
Q:
Is this an accessible tour?
A:Apr 2025
Accessibility information for the Ottawa Self-Guided Audio Tour is as follows:
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Q:
Where is the meeting point for this activity?
A:
Detailed check-in instructions – including meeting point address, Google map, and parking information – for Ottawa Self-Guided Audio Tour will be included in your confirmation email from City Boat Tours. Please be sure to double and triple check your email address is correct at checkout so this important email makes its way to you!
Mar 2024What's Included
- Private access links validity up to 6 days
- Private access link to the audio guide in one playlist for 12 attractions
- Private access link to a tour itinerary map of 12 attractions with audio guide individually
- Entrance Fees (wherever it's necessary)
- Transportations (pick-up and drop-off)
Additional Info
- Confirmation is instant and will be received at time of booking
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- 1. Receive Access Links: On your selected date of travel, before your starting time, you'll receive an email containing two important links for your audio guide.
- 2. Audio Content (Link 1): Click on our secure SoundCloud web link to access the audio guides. You can listen to individual attraction guides or the entire tour to plan your visit. This allows you to familiarize yourself with the content before or during your tour.
- 3. Interactive Map (Link 2): Use our secure Google My Maps link to locate all attractions on an interactive map. Each point on the map corresponds to a stop on the tour and links directly to its audio guide.
- 4. Flexible Exploration: As you explore the city use the map to navigate between stops. At each location, simply click on the corresponding point to play the relevant audio guide.
- 5. Plan Your Route: You can use both links to plan your route in advance, deciding which attractions you want to prioritize or if you want to follow the suggested order of the tour.
- 6. Customer Support: If you have any questions about accessing or using the audio guide, please don't hesitate to contact us. We're here to ensure you have a smooth and enjoyable experience
- Remember, this self-guided tour allows you to explore at your own pace. Feel free to take breaks, spend more time at your favourite locations, or even split the tour across multiple days. The flexibility of our audio guide ensures you can tailor the experience to your preferences and schedule.
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