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Parliament of Canada
Category: Public Services & Government Landmarks & Historical Buildings Landmarks & Historical Buildings [Edit]
111 Wellington StOttawa, ON K1A 0A9
(866) 599-4999
20 reviews for Parliament of Canada
Review Highlights
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"One must is a trip up the iconic Peace Tower." In 7 reviews -
"The tour guide was informative and we got to see the inside..." In 5 reviews -
"...on the tour, including the House of Commons, Senate and the..." In 4 reviews
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20 reviews in English
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Review from J N.
Vancouver, BC
2/2/2012 4 Check-ins Here
What can I say?
It's an amazing place when your family member works darn hard to become part of the electoral senate, and your old friend, Justin, makes an effort to say hello, complete with one kiss on each cheek. What a neat guy and eloquent speaker.
The building is spotless, the guards are plentiful and it was cool having a private tour of Sir John A's office.
What was even cooler was sitting in one of the roped off areas pretending to sign a bill. lol. shh....
I'll review the restaurant and cafeteria next, but it truly made me proud to be Canadian. And at least now I can see where my tax dollars are working just as hard, too. -
Review from Chauncey B.
Vancouver, BC
2/13/2012
Though of course the system is set up this way, I can't find particularly cogent arguments supporting partisan politics in terms of providing any sort of government which is responsible for the whole of the governed: it seems all anybody expects is that some statistically-significant portion of the country in question is being represented at all times, with no attempt or even thought toward inclusive or at least extra-ideological solutions to problems. The fact of the matter is, if you have a majority government of the seats in Parliament, it is entirely possible that your party only got (based on a practical field of say 4 parties, with all votes going to one of those 4 (hypothetical!)) 25.whatever% of the popular vote, and on top of that our actual voter turnout numbers are woefully low. To then turn around and speak or behave as if you represent the country as a whole is ignorant at best. For this reason, the "first past the post" system should not be considered to create a governing body representative of or even beholden to "the average citizen". I'm not going to get into proportional representation as I don't have that much time, but it suffices to say there are options that would create meaning for (or return meaning to) the individual vote.
Secondly, by the rules and customs of the system as it stands we are in effect voting for a member of an electoral college that then in turn, given a "majority", elects a Prime Minister. The position of "the whip" exists to keep party members voting in accordance with the policy of the party leadership. By stepping out of line, an MP could risk being thrown out of caucus and as such losing any real power to represent their constituents within the controlling body, or being replaced as the party representative in the next election. At present, this strict partisanship has created a monolithic entity, a party that has ceased to think of itself in terms of its members and has gone so far as to attempt to officially brand itself "The Harper Government". Decisions are made at the top. So even within that ruling party, your own local concerns may not be voiced.
My objections to this, I would hasten to clarify, are not coming from an ideological disagreement with the policies of the current government, but from a formal one: during the first session of the 41st Parliament, there were only 3 instances of dissension from party lines and, if I'm not mistaken, no amendments or proposals of any kind passed that originated with the opposition.
Briefly, I would like to touch on the fact that we demand a faster pace from our government than ever before, between instant communication and the general impatience of the modern world, which effectively rules out the possibility of lengthy debate, without which there can be no compromise, or nuanced positions. So there's that.
Our system is by no means the worst, nor do I have any major complaints about my life and the quality thereof. I like it here. But the point is, in the case of a majority government, unless you vote for a member of the party that wins, and unless your ideals reflect exactly the ideals of that party, you are in fact not being represented in the halls of government. More importantly, why would we continue to elect members of parliament that don't even try to claim allegiance to the voter over their party? Who are they representing, really? How can we really claim that we live in a truly representative democracy? I submit that we cannot, and for that reason I have to give the Parliament of Canada 2 stars. Will probably not vote again soon. -
Review from Chris G.
9/28/2011
The Parliament of Canada is Simply beautiful. The architecture is incredible. I was most impressed with how open the grounds are to tourists. It didn't feel like a fortress like some landmarks in the U.S. can feel.
I think the Parliament Library is one of the prettiest things I've ever seen. It feels straight out of Harry Potter or somethin'!
I recommend taking a day to roam around the hill, take a tour. There's a lot to see and the area is so gorgeous it's worth taking your time.
*Bonus tip* There are Parliament Hill cats that live on the north end of the Hill. There is a little cat city that is maintained by volunteers. -
Review from Chris Y.
9/7/2011 5 photos
300th review time!
If you are visiting Ottawa, this is THE One Thing To See. I mean, really, what else is Ottawa known for?!?
Any day, any time, you can wander around the grounds, admire the views, and take photos.
Tours are available, if you get there early enough... it's kinda done much like Disney's Fastpass: you go to the tent on the east side of the main building, and get a ticket for the next available tour (I had to wait about 45 minutes for the next available tour), and then just show up back at the tent just before the tour is scheduled to start. Tours are available in French and English, though it seems that all the tour guides are bilingual. You can choose to take tours of the East or Centre Blocks, the grounds, or just the "Peace Tower." But once all the tickets are taken, that's it for the day. So get there before 3pm!
The Centre Block tour is the busiest, since that's the main attraction. The House of Commons and Senate rooms were just as pictured; kinda boring. The library was very cool, though! The Peace Tower is also worthwhile, for a great view of Ottawa! But I found the Outdoor tour to be more interesting (or Seth was a very good tour guide). Best part? All tours are FREE!
If you are going to be around during a summer evening, "Mosaika" is a 30-minute Disney-esque light and sound show (photo: http://www.yelp.ca/biz...), where a symbolic show of Canada's history is projected onto the main building. Also FREE! (see separate Yelp page: http://www.yelp.com/bi...) -
Review from Lisa K.
11/17/2011
Definitely worth going to! We had friends call their MP the day before to get tickets to the question period for the house of commons. It was fascinating and will dispel any thoughts that Canadian politics are more civilized than US. Also, the headsets are useful for hearing everyone who is speaking and hearing full translation to French or English. You have to check everything before you enter. The dress code seems pretty lenient but I guess you're not supposed to wear anything political or with lots of writing. Afterward we had a free tour which was worth seeing. The best part, as mentioned, may have been the house of cats out behind parliament.
It was a bit disheartening to see the anti-gay, anti-choice protestors out front, but that's free speech for you. -
Review from WaYnE c.
Maple, ON
9/15/2011 1 photo
These Canadians let me stay in Canada eh.
All I had to do was take an Oath and Sing-a-song.
I didn't know they work at The Hill in picturesque Buildings.
It kinda makes me want to... break into song[1].
O Canada!
Our home and native land!
True patriot love in all thy sons command.
With glowing hearts we see thee rise,
The True North strong and free!
From far and wide,
O Canada, we stand on guard for thee.
God keep our land glorious and free!
O Canada, we stand on guard for thee.
O Canada, we stand on guard for thee[2].
[1] http://en.wikipedia.or...
[2] English lyrics to O Canada written by Robert Stanley Weir -
Review from Alan S.
7/30/2011
It's a beautiful building that is worth checking out even if just from the outside. The inside was neat to see, but not all that amazing. Sadly I didn't make it up to the Peace Tower. It's always neat to see a building that is both historical and functional at the same time. There was a RCMP on horseback out front which was a nice touch but of the multiple times I walked by over the course of the week. It was only there once. So it's hit or miss if you get to see that bonus as a tourist.
Be sure to catch the laser/light show at 10pm out front! I felt very Canadian watching that while eating my Tim Horton's donuts and drinking chocolate milk sitting on the lawn of the building. But that's only during the summer. -
Review from Erich Z.
3/30/2011 2 photos
Come to parliament on a weekday during work hours if you can, it is much more full of the business of the nation at that time. While I was there, the government was voting on dissolving parliament, the bigwigs were all giving interviews, protesters were on the lawn, and the public galleries were full.
The free tour is nice but likely to be loaded with schoolkids.
Stop by the peace tower and chat up a guard if you want some inside tips for the city. According to the guy I spoke with, summer is a great time to visit as the lawn is a popular yoga spot, great for people watching. Also, being a guard is made more difficult by a hangover.
The buildings themselves are of course gorgeous, with impressive gothic architecture and many beautiful little details that reward you upon closer inspection. -
Review from Amanda B.
Ottawa, ON
12/24/2010 3 photos
Where can I start? Aside from all the protests and government- and politics-related affairs happening here, Parliament Hill is the prime location for many events in the capital city.
Most notable are Canada Day celebrations, when Parliament Hill is turned into a concert venue for Canadian artists, and is a great place to watch the fireworks. During the day, they also have the Changing of the Guard, and you can even take pictures with a real Canadian Mountie. It can get really packed on Canada Day, though, so make sure you're prepared to feel claustrophobic and fight the crowds to get to the downtown streets.
In winter, when the Christmas Lights across Canada begin, snowflakes, patterns, and other multi-colored lights are projected onto the buildings, and it's incredibly beautiful and charming with the white snow.
If you've never visited Parliament Hill, you must at least once!Listed in: The Nation's Capital
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Review from Kwoky L.
12/11/2010
The Parliament building is a must-see when you're in Ottawa. On a nice sunny day, the gothic buildings are very picturesque and the view of Hull from the top of the hill behind the building is simply breathtaking.
But if you have the time, join them for a free tour. They'll give you a brief introduction of the Parliament with all the interesting histories. The interior looks very 1800s but little do people know, it was burnt down and rebuilt in 1900s to resemble the gothic architecture of the previous building. Pretty amazing when you think about it, since people don't make buildings like this anymore.
Yes, you have to go through security, like any major government buildings but the security personnel were not rude and the tour guides were very friendly. It was a pleasant experience for me. -
Review from Darren M.
Ottawa, ON
12/3/2010
There's really nothing to complain about when it comes to this beautiful building and breathtaking setting.
The history of the building and grounds is fascinating and even with recent renovations (some are ongoing) it still feels like the building is preserved and wrapped in history.
If you want to get a feel for how things work up on Parliament Hill and avoid that many tourists I'd suggest going mid week while Parliament is sitting (usually off around Christmas for a while and through the summer). You'll bump into Senators and MPs racing to meetings or Question Period. If you want to watch Question Period you should plan that in advance and try to contact your MP about getting passes.
If you don't care to see or experience the fun listed above then I'd suggest checking this place out anytime in the summer or on weekends. However, the area is VERY busy in the summer and sometimes you have to wait a while for the free tours.
You'll be required to go through airport-like security so plan ahead and there are some spots on the tour where photos aren't allowed but I'd suggest still bringing your camera.
One must is a trip up the iconic Peace Tower. It's a short elevator ride up Ottawa's tallest building (in the downtown area) but the view is neat and equally as funky is the lookout located below the clock.
From the outside you'd never know there was a lookout up there but in fact there is a viewing area.
And if crowds aren't your thing at all, just bring a blanket or towel and throw it down on the lawn and lay in the sun all afternoon. Few countries allow such access to the buildings where all of their laws and policies are made and that's what makes this site so great. -
Review from Geoff L.
9/28/2010
The Parliament building in Canada's capital is a definite must-see for any first time tourists. Think of it as the White House of Canada:)
During the summer, they have lots of free events, such as fireworks (During Canada day), free tours. The building has beautiful architecture, of course heavily modeled after the English Parliament, but nonetheless very well done.
Lot's of picturesque spots around Parliament as it is located right by the river, nothing like a romantic stroll along the river with a significant other.
You'll also be able to spot some RCMPs on their horses riding around, so perfect picture op too! -
Review from Michelle A.
3/22/2010
Very nice grounds, and the tour was very informative and the guide was friendly. But perhaps the most memorable part of visiting this iconic landmark is the views you get from the top of the Peace Tower. You can look over the river into Gatineau, look out across the expansive city of Ottawa, and otherwise enjoy this fantastic view from the sky.
I stopped by here on my way back from the Gatineau Hot Air Balloon Festival and was treated to several balloon sightings from the tower.Listed in: Must See Road Trip Stops
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Review from David L.
12/26/2010
Parliament Hill is a symbol of Canadian politics and I didn't get a tour because of the current renovations. Strangely, it was completely closed to the public. I thought the water fountain with the flames was cool. Sadly, that was the highlight of the trip. If you're ever in Ottawa, it's a must visit if you can get a tour inside the building.
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Review from Amanda D.
Ottawa, ON
10/31/2008 4 photos
It took a couple years of living in Ottawa until I finally went for the Parliament building tour. Especially if you're going in the summer, this is a very convenient and nice way to spend an hour and gather a slice of Ottawa and Canadian history. When I went, the tours were running every hour for free. Once you get going with your VERY energetic and amicable tour guide, it takes a little while to get through security. Once the tour actually starts, it's about 45 minutes.
This Gothic building is so beautiful with an amazing architecture and art wherever you turn. Since I went in the summer when Parliament isn't in session, I was able to see all the rooms on the tour, including the House of Commons, Senate and the Library of Parliament. Everyone I've ever spoken to about the building agrees that the library is the highlight of the tour. At the end, if you're up for more waiting (approximately 30 minutes) you can stand in line to take the elevator all the way to the top of the Peace Tower. It's armed with an amazing view of Ottawa, plus more historical tidbits are offered.
Afterwards, feel free to wander the grounds to look at the various statues and landmarks, including the Whispering Wall and stray cats of Parliament. In fact, you can come at any hour of the day or night and do this with no questions asked: a rare privilege citizens of a country are able to do. -
Review from John F.
North York, ON
4/9/2009
Go on a weekend as they are not in session and the tour guide will take you inside the Library and Senate chambers.
The tour was excellent and the guide was able to easily answer questions not on their script. The building is a lovely example of two types of Gothic Revival -- 20th century in the Centre Block and mid-Victorian in the Library. Grounds are impressive and don't forget to walk around the back for an excellent view of the Ottawa River and its bridges.
If visiting the Tower, also don't forget to visit the Hall of Remembrance -- a moving and intimate tribute to Canadian War Dead. -
Review from Jasmine W.
6/19/2010
free tours, beautiful architecture, a great spot to watch the sunset and get a great view of the river if you walk around to the back!
we got super lucky and caught the media opening for this year's sound and light show - a FREE half hour show that will play every evening in the summertime. the director gave a short speech about the history of the show and how it took 'em over 2 years to develop and the refinement definitely shows! beautifully portrayed with lots of use of technology - we sat on the grass (bring a blanket and some bug spray!) and had a nice time chatting and admiring the show.
the guided tours are also pretty decent (and free!). you just head to the large white tent to the left of parliament and you have your choice of french or english. it's first come first served but we had no problems getting a spot on the next tour (10 minutes from when we arrived).
after the tour they drop you off at the gift shop but be sure not to miss going up to the tower - a great view of the city!
OF NOTE: parking in ottawa is terrible! there is street parking but it's mostly for 1 hr max and the tour lasts at least an hour (including security). my rec: arrive to the city early in the morning, park your car in an all-day flat fee lot (the best deal we saw was $12), and explore the city. since it's relatively small and flat, it's no problem getting around (i s'pose as long as the weather is decent!). -
Review from Mike S.
Toronto, ON
10/10/2008 1 photo
I have a secret, while I am a proud Torontonian I really like Ottawa. There is just something about the town that is very pleasant and nice. It reminds me of a big city without being big at all and I think that that is just swell. I had been to Ottawa before but all the other times the Parliament was closed and I was out of luck. When I went last, I was shocked that the tour was free. I would have happily paid between $5-10 and thought that I was getting a deal. The tour is very good. It lasts for about 45 minutes and takes you to the lower (House of Commons) and upper (senate) houses and the tour guide happily spills out facts about the places you are visiting. My personal favorite bit of the tour is when you get to visit the library. I realize that the parliamentary library is nothing compared to the congressional one in Washington, but our is very fitting to Canada; it is small but beautifully appointed and wonderfully lit. I highly recommend visiting Parliament when you visit Ottawa because it doesn't have much else.
Like the review? Check out the link to my blog on my profile. -
Review from Terri Y.
6/10/2009
I visited Parliament with my friend, a native of Ottawa. The grounds are very pretty and I got a nice view of the river from behind Parliament. You can also see the home for stray cats (kind of random) on the grounds. We went on a tour of Parliament. Security wasn't bad at all. It took us about 20-30 minutes to get through. Being an American citizen, I was expecting to be harassed. The tour guide was informative and we got to see the inside of the library. Unfortunately, both houses were in session so we couldn't see the Senate or Commons chambers. I'm told that the sessions are public and there is a viewing gallery in the chambers. You can also go up the Peace Tower but we waited over 15 minutes over the elevator and had to run to a movie, so I didn't get to see the view from the top.
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Review from Aaron B.
Wilberforce, ON
4/11/2010
While we didn't arrive on the hill in time to do a tour of the Centre Block, there is plenty to be seen meandering leisurely around the grounds. There is something gloriously egalitarian about being able to freely walk about the grounds of our government, while being able to relax and take in the beautiful (and sometimes strangely entertaining... count the beavers... find the unicorn) architecture, memorials, statues, and cat-house. Even the RCMP who patrol the grounds seem relaxed (but always vigilant, I'm sure). Lots of opportunity for pictures!
