Tour Schedule
Residence Tours
Visit the State rooms where the governor general fulfills official duties welcoming dignitaries and honouring Canadians. The residence is home to a magnificent collection of Canadian art and furniture. On display are the works of such renowned Canadian artists as Jean Paul Lemieux, Emily Carr and Allen Sapp. A special exhibition on Canadian honours is also included in the tour.
Guided tours are free of charge. Each tour lasts 45 minutes. You can also visit the grounds.
Depending when you are planning to visit, you might require a reservation. Find out on the schedule below.
Important Notice
In the buildup to the 150th anniversary of Confederation in 2017, work will be undertaken by the National Capital Commission (NCC) to create a ceremonial site in front of the residence. Please note that Rideau Hall will be open during the rehabilitation work. Visitors are asked to please use the following entrances to access the property:
- Visitors entering on foot or by bike can still access the grounds via Thomas Gate or Mackay Pedestrian Gate (parking available on surrounding streets);
- Visitors with mobility restrictions are asked to enter via Princess Gate. Please call ahead to get up-to-date information and to reserve parking on-site. Contact us at 1-866-842-4422 between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m. from Monday to Friday (see map).
We look forward to welcoming you!
| Dates |
Without a Reservation |
With a Reservation |
| January 3 to April 29, 2016 |
Not available |
Daily
10 a.m. to 4 p.m. |
| April 30 to June 29, 2016 |
Weekends
10 a.m. to 4 p.m. |
Monday to Friday
10 a.m. to 4 p.m. |
| June 30 to September 5, 2016 |
Daily
10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. |
Not available |
|
*Open House: In July and August, visit the residence at your own pace from 3 p.m. to 4:30 p.m.
|
| September 6 to October 30, 2016 |
Weekends
noon to 4 p.m. |
Monday to Friday
10 a.m. to 4 p.m. |
| October 31 to December 23, 2016 |
Not available |
Daily
10 a.m. to 4 p.m. |
Statutory Holidays
Tours are offered on statutory holidays from May to October. Tours are not offered on Remembrance Day, throughout the holiday season, or over the Easter long weekend.
Groups of 10 or more require a reservation for a guided tour 48 hours in advance. |
Reservations
Please make reservations a minimum 48 hours in advance.
613-991-4422 | 1-866-842-4422 (toll-free) |
guide@gg.ca
Virtual tour of Rideau Hall, presented by the National Capital Commission.
Grounds Tour
The historic grounds of Rideau Hall recall unique stories of this country’s past. Its evolution and design reflect a distinctly Canadian environment.
More than 10,000 trees provide summer shade and year-round charm. Many of the trees have been specially planted by a visiting head of State, a member of the Royal family, or other dignitaries to mark an important event or anniversary. Discover the inuksuk and the totem pole, come admire the sweeping arc of roses in the Canadian Heritage Gardens, enjoy a picnic on the grounds or take in a cricket match—there’s so much to do!
Pick up a self-guided tour brochure at either entrance (the Thomas Gate, off Sussex Drive; or the Mackay Gate, off Mackay Street), and explore the grounds at your leisure, following the interpretive panels along the paths.
The grounds of Rideau Hall are open daily from 8 a.m. to one hour before sunset.
Site Information and Amenities
- The Visitor Centre is open from May to October.
- All tours and activities are free of charge.
- Rideau Hall is fully accessible for persons with a disability; wheelchairs are available on-site.
- Water fountains, washroom facilities, picnic tables and a play structure are also available on-site.
- Scheduling for all activities is subject to change without notice due to official events.
- For more information, please contact Visitor Services by phone at 613-991-4422/1-866-842-4422 or by e-mail at guide@gg.ca.
Rideau Hall is a working residence
and official events may require unforeseen changes to your visit.
