Outdoor Tour and Activities

Think the inside of the Parliament Buildings is fun to visit? There is also much to see and do outside, on the Hill itself!

Outdoor Guided Tour: In the Footsteps of Great Canadians

Offered:	June 24 to September 4, 2006
Schedule:	Daily
Cost:	Free

This outdoor guided tour is focused on a number of historical figures who have helped shape Canada’s past, present and future.

• Same-day tickets are available at the Info-Tent, which is located between the Centre Block and the West Block.
• Reservations are required for groups of 10 persons or more and must be made through the National Capital Commission (NCC) (offsite link). You can reach the NCC at (613) 239-5100 or 1 800 461-8020.

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Changing the Guard

Offered:	June 24 to August 26, 2006
Schedule:	Daily (weather permitting), 10:00 am to 10:30 am
Cost:	Free

A Canadian tradition at its most colourful! The Ceremonial Guard of the Canadian Forces brings stirring military drill and music to Parliament Hill. Come at 9:45 am to learn more about the ceremony.

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Sound and Light Show on Parliament Hill

Offered:	July 5 to September 10, 2006
Schedule:	Daily (evenings)
Cost:	Free

This dynamic show illuminates Parliament Hill as the spirit of Canada is revealed through captivating music, shimmering lights and stunning projections on the Parliament Buildings. This performance is offered free of charge this summer and is a must-see for all visitors to the nation’s capital!

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Discover the Hill Self-Guided Tour

Offered:	Year-round
Cost:	Free

Discover what makes Parliament Hill a unique place to visit. As you stroll along the Hill from mid-May to September 1, site interpreters can assist you in your discovery of historical figures and events on Parliament Hill. We also encourage you to pick up the Discover the Hill Self-Guiding Booklet and explore the site at your own pace. These are available free of charge at the Info-Tent in the summer, and year-round at the Capital Infocentre across from the Hill.

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Costumed Interpretation / Theatre on the Hill

Offered:	July 2 to September 4, 2006
Schedule:	Daily
Cost:	Free

During your visit, you may encounter a visitor from the past. Be on the lookout! You never know who is roaming the grounds and the halls of Parliament.

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Royal Canadian Mounted Police

Offered:	June to August
Schedule:	Daily
Cost:	Free

Meet a Mountie – a scarlet-clad RCMP officer – on Parliament Hill. Formed as the North West Mounted Police in 1873 to oversee the settlement of the West, this famous police force is a part of Canadian history and a continued source of national pride.

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Carillon Concerts

Offered:	July and August – One-hour concert at 2:00 pm (weekdays) September to June – 15-minute concert at noon (most weekdays) except the week before Easter
Cost:	Free

Take in a truly unique musical experience – the 53-bell carillon of the Peace Tower. We owe the richness of its sound to the Dominion Carillonneur, Mr. Gordon Slater.

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To make the most of your visit, consult Planning a Visit? and Special Events.

What you should know

Vehicles on the Hill: Only authorized vehicles are permitted on Parliament Hill.

Parking: There is no parking available on Parliament Hill. Numerous municipal and public parking lots are located nearby.

Security: All visitors to the Parliament buildings are required to go through security scanning stations. Expect delays.

Special Needs: All facilities are wheelchair accessible. We can accommodate most special needs. Please call (613) 239-5000 for more information.