Maksym KuzaievOttawa’s Supreme Court of Canada is a fascinating slice of history and national pride! Established in 1875, this revered institution began its journey as Canada’s highest court and found its permanent home in the stunning Art Deco building in 1946.
However, the Supreme Court’s role extends beyond maintaining law and order. It’s also a major tourist hotspot in Ottawa, where you can stroll through its grand halls, peek into the courtroom, and feel grandeur seep into your soul—a must-visit indeed!
Things to Know
Operating hours: Monday to Friday – 8 AM to 5 PM
Contact: +1 613 995 4330
Ticket Prices: All guided tours are free
Where is Ottawa’s Supreme Court of Canada?
Ottawa’s Supreme Court of Canada is smack dab right in the heart of downtown, at 301 Wellington Street. This imposing building sits right along the Ottawa River, and it has some gorgeous views of Gatineau across the water.
Its location, Wellington Street, is a big deal too. Along this bustling street, you’ll find the majestic Parliament Buildings, the National War Memorial, and the Library and Archives Canada building.
How to Get to the Supreme Court of Canada
Closest bus stop: If you’re using public transit, you can hop on an OC Transpo bus and get off at the Parliament Hill area, specifically at the Wellington/Bay stop—it’s just a short walk from there.
Closest subway stop: Alternatively, you can make your way to Lyon Station on the O-Train’s Confederation Line and take a quick stroll north toward Wellington Street.
If you plan to drive and you’re coming from anywhere in Ottawa, simply head toward downtown and follow Wellington Street. For those who enjoy a good walk, Wellington Street itself is great to explore!
What to Do and See in the Supreme Court of Canada
Join a guided tour
When it comes to exploring the Supreme Court of Canada, you have three ways to dive into the experience: on-site tours, remote tours, and tours tailored specifically for school groups.
On-site Tours
– Media credit: scc.eng
The Supreme Court of Canada’s guided tours give visitors an in-depth peek into Canada’s highest court and the role it plays in shaping the nation’s law.
During the tour, you’ll learn about the judicial system in Canada, the function of a Supreme Court judge, and even get access to parts of the courthouse that aren’t open to the general public.
Expect to be fascinated by the detailed explanations about famous cases and the procedures that go into making decisions at this level. Keep in mind, though, that tours can be cancelled or rescheduled, so it’s smart to double-check availability on their website.
Remote Tours
– Media credit: scc.eng
If you’re not in Ottawa—or maybe you just prefer visiting new places from the comfort of your home—remote tours of the Supreme Court of Canada are an awesome option to consider.
Using online platforms, the court provides a guided walkthrough of areas like the courtroom and surrounding spaces while discussing the building’s design, history, and the court’s role.
You’ll also gain insights into how high-profile cases are deliberated and resolved. Additionally, you often have the option to ask questions during the session.
School Group Tours
– Media credit: scc.eng
Organised tours for school groups at the Supreme Court of Canada are tailored to be both educational and fun. School groups get to explore the building, learn about its unique role, and even participate in mock trials that simulate real case situations.
Plus, the tour guides are excellent at answering student questions and tailoring their explanations based on the group’s age or level of understanding.
Attend a court hearing
– Media credit: scc.eng
Attending a court hearing at the Supreme Court of Canada is one of the most fascinating experiences you can have. You’ll get to hear highly respected legal minds debate complex issues—everything from constitutional law to international treaties.
While they don’t hear cases every day, if you check the schedule ahead of time, you can plan your visit around an active hearing. By the way, tickets are free, but you must reserve a seat in advance, as public seating in the courtroom is limited.
If they can’t save you a spot in the courtroom, don’t worry—you can still watch the hearing in the court building’s grand entrance hall.
Check out its architecture
– Media credit: scc.eng
The magnificent Art Deco building, where the Supreme Court of Canada is located, catches your eye with its bold lines and prominent features. It was designed by architect Ernest Cormier in the 1930s.
The signature copper roof, which you’ll spot as soon as you arrive, adds an air of grandeur. The great foyer is also captivating with its large-scale mural depicting significant aspects of Canadian legal history.
Don’t forget to step outside and get a closer look at the sculptures and landscaping. The grounds are immaculate and offer great photo opportunities.
Visit Nearby Attractions
Parliament Hill
– Media credit: jijifromtheblock
Website: https://www.parl.ca/
Address: Wellington St.
Contact details: +1 613 992 4793
Operating hours:
- Temporarily closed (under renovation)
Just a few minutes from the Supreme Court, Parliament Hill is one of Ottawa’s most iconic landmarks. Start with a guided tour inside; you’ll learn insightful facts about Canada’s government and get a peek into the rooms where critical decisions are made.
The Gothic Revival architecture alone is breathtaking, so take your time to appreciate the intricate stonework, the Peace Tower, and the soaring ceilings.
Outside, especially during the summer, you can catch the famous Changing of the Guard ceremony.
National War Memorial
– Media credit: ebd.edwards
Address: Wellington St.
Contact details: +1 866 522 2122
Operating hours:
- Open 24 hours
The National War Memorial is one of the most meaningful places to visit in Ottawa. This towering tribute commemorates Canadians who’ve served in times of war and conflict.
At the centre is the massive granite arch, with intricately carved figures representing soldiers, nurses, and other personnel heading off with resolve. The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier sits nearby and is equally poignant.
This memorial holds the remains of a Canadian soldier from World War I, symbolising the sacrifices of all those who fought and lost their lives without recognition.
Library and Archives Canada
– Media credit: henrasv
Website: https://library-archives.canada.ca/eng/services/public/visit/Pages/ottawa.aspx
Address: 395 Wellington St.
Contact details: +1 613 996 5115
Operating hours:
- Monday to Friday – 9 AM to 8 PM
- Saturday – 9 AM to 4 PM
Library and Archives Canada is a must-visit for anyone who loves exploring Canada’s history. Housing millions of documents, rare books, photographs, maps, and even art, this building is home to Canada’s collective memory.
Walking its halls, you’ll see displays dedicated to massive moments in Canadian history, from prime ministerial speeches to Indigenous records.
If you’re digging into personal history, such as genealogy, you can access resources to trace your roots through local archives and digitised material.
Bank of Canada Museum
– Media credit: golden_dumpling_r
Website: https://www.bankofcanadamuseum.ca/
Address: 30 Bank St.
Contact details: +1 613 782 8914
Operating hours:
- Monday to Sunday – 10 AM to 5 PM
If there’s one place in Ottawa that’s both fun and educational, it’s the Bank of Canada Museum. Inside, exhibits break down how money works, the history of currency, and the role Canada’s central bank plays in the economy.
What makes this museum fun, though, are the hands-on activities. Some of the exhibits are interactive, giving visitors a chance to test their budgeting skills, identify counterfeit bills, or role-play decisions a central banker might make during a crisis.
Where to Eat and Drink near the Supreme Court of Canada
Rabbit Hole
– Media credit: rabbitholeott
Address: 208 Sparks St.
Phone: +1 613 695 0500
Pricing: $$
Operating hours:
- Monday – 5 PM to 12 AM
- Tuesday to Thursday – 4 PM to 12 AM
- Friday – 4 PM to 2 AM
- Saturday – 5 PM to 2 AM
Good to know: Perfect for small groups, casual dining
Rabbit Hole’s setting is chic, offering both upstairs and downstairs areas where you can enjoy cocktails along with some classic bistro food. Speaking of food, the elk & stout pot pie, wagyu hamburger, and seared chicken supreme here are highly recommended.
For pizza lovers, they have both red and white pizza options, like the Red 3 with smoked sausage or the White 5 featuring pork belly and blue cheese. The combination of these wines, the contemporary vibe, and the dim lighting will instantly set the mood!
Aiana Restaurant Collective
– Media credit: dineaiana
Address: 50 O’Connor St.
Phone: +1 613 680 8100
Pricing: $$$
Operating hours:
- Tuesday to Friday – 11 AM to 11 PM
- Saturday – 5 PM to 11 PM
Good to know: Ideal for special occasions or intimate dinners
For a fantastic fine dining spot near the Supreme Court of Canada, Aiana Restaurant is a must-visit. From the moment you walk in, the sleek, contemporary decor paired with soft ambient lighting creates a refined atmosphere—ideal for intimate dinners!
Now when it comes to mains, the shrimp & grits, rigatoni alla vodka, and the dry-aged duck are what we locals come back for—all these are flavourful! And don’t forget dessert—the matcha cheesecake and pecan butter tart are phenomenal.
Now, Aiana not only delivers impeccable food but also offers an extensive wine list, along with a thoughtfully crafted tasting menu!
Sansotei Ramen
– Media credit: sansoteiramen
Address: 153 Bank St.
Phone: +1 613 695 1718
Pricing: $$
Operating hours:
- Monday to Saturday – 11 AM to 9:45 PM
Good to know: Great for solo diners, or quick lunches
Sansotei Ramen is all about fresh, flavourful bowls of ramen, with a focus on homemade pork bone broth made fresh daily. Nestled in a buzzing part of town, Sansotei welcomes you with its minimalist, modern interiors and lively atmosphere.
Must-tries here include their best-selling tomato ramen with Hokkaido scallop and shiitake mushrooms. There’s also the Miso Black for that perfect mix of garlicky depth and spice, plus the vegetarian-friendly mazemen with eggplant, corn, and pepperoncini.
Complement your ramen with a couple of sides like their gyudon (beef rice bowl), gyoza, or the creamy corn-filled croquette. Sansotei also has a tight selection of drinks from beers to sake, you’ll find your new favourite here.
Bâton Rouge Grillhouse & Bar
– Media credit: batonrougegrillhouse
Address: 360 Albert St Unit 110
Phone: +1 613 216 1110
Pricing: $$
Operating hours:
- Monday to Friday – 11 AM to 10 PM
- Saturday and Sunday – 4 PM to 10 PM
Good to know: Excellent for families and groups
Baton Rouge Grillhouse & Bar’s ribs are the stuff of legend, slow-cooked and bathed in their signature BBQ sauce. Then there’s the prime rib, classic surf & turf, and the Atlantic salmon if you’re in the mood for seafood.
They also let you enhance your meal with their sides, with crab cakes and parmesan truffle French fries being the crowd’s favourites. Drinks at Baton Rouge complement the menu nicely—be it with wines, draughts, cocktails, or mocktails!
And since this place serves up BBQ-slathered goodness alongside hearty grill fare, you can expect a warm, wood-accented decor paired with ambient lighting—they kind of associate their place with a countryside charm!
Tulip Restaurant
– Media credit: tulipottawadowntown
Address: 361 Queen St.
Phone: +1 613 239 5145
Pricing: $$$
Operating hours:
- Monday to Friday – 6:30 AM to 9:30 AM, 11 AM to 10 PM
- Saturday and Sunday – 7 AM to 10 PM, 11 AM to 10 PM
Good to know: Great for casual lunches or sharing plates with friends
Nestled in a prime location, Tulip offers a dining experience that perfectly blends refined flavours with a relaxed atmosphere.
For starters, their Tulip Board is perfect for sharing, and the Tulip Caesar salad is available as either a half or full serving.
And when it’s time to go all-in, the Tulip’s Table D’Hôte is worth looking out for—it’s a chef-crafted three-course experience. They’re great for breakfast too—you can’t skip trying out their Tulip breakfast buffet!
Where to Stay near the Supreme Court of Canada
Ottawa Marriott Hotel
– Media credit: ottawamarriott
Address: 100 Kent St.
Phone: +1 613 238 1122
Pricing: $$$
Operating hours:
- Check-in – 3 PM
- Check-out – 12 PM
The Ottawa Marriott Hotel covers everything you’d need for a comfortable stay, whether you’re here for business or just exploring the city. Their rooms are modern and functional, offering comfy bedding, workspace, and fantastic views of the city.
If you’re driving in, the hotel offers parking for guests as well. In terms of amenities, they’ve got an indoor pool, a fitness centre, and even an indoor kids’ play area.
For dining, their onsite Spin restaurant provides solid breakfast, lunch and dinner options, along with a bar—perfect for unwinding! They’re also accommodating with room services, so staying isn’t a problem if you’re too tired to head out.
Hilton Garden Inn Ottawa Downtown
– Media credit: lorigold99
Address: 361 Queen St.
Phone: +1 613 234 6363
Pricing: $$$
Operating hours:
- Check-in – 4 PM
- Check-out – 12 PM
The Hilton Garden Inn Ottawa Downtown is another stellar option right in the thick of things. Rooms here are geared towards relaxation and productivity, with ergonomic workspaces, modern furnishings, and room options for families or solo travellers.
You’ll also have access to self-laundry facilities and private parking. What’s more, there’s an onsite restaurant and a nice bar area, a fitness centre, an indoor pool, and plenty of lounge spaces.
Since this hotel is located on Queen Street, you’ll be in prime territory for exploring downtown Ottawa.
Alt Hotel Ottawa
– Media credit: hamel_martin
Address: 185 Slater St.
Phone: +1 613 691 6882
Pricing: $$
Operating hours:
- Check-in – 3 PM
- Check-out – 12 PM
Alt Hotel Ottawa is all about sleek design and keeping your stay simple and efficient. The room layouts here are compact but super functional, with comfy beds, generously-sized showers, and smart tech features like Chromecast TVs.
They also have an eco-friendly focus, which is a nice touch if sustainability is important to you. While the hotel skips amenities like pools or large-scale facilities, it makes up for that with its focus on essentials done really well.
There’s a communal workspace area in the lobby, and their onsite cafe-bar combo serves as both a spot for a quick breakfast and somewhere to grab a drink. The vibe is refreshingly straightforward, and the service is efficient.
Delta Hotels Ottawa City Centre
– Media credit: deltaottawacitycentre
Address: 101 Lyon St. N.
Phone: +1 613 237 3600
Pricing: $$$
Operating hours:
- Check-in – 3 PM
- Check-out – 12 PM
Delta Hotels is another strong contender if you want easy access to landmarks like the Supreme Court and Parliament Hill. Rooms here are spacious and well-equipped, featuring plush bedding, workspaces, and large windows with excellent city views.
One of their standout amenities is the large indoor saltwater pool, along with an extensive fitness centre and well-appointed conference facilities. Snacks and quick meals can also be grabbed from their lobby shop—super useful for busy days!
Sheraton Ottawa Hotel
Address: 150 Albert St.
Phone: +1 613 238 1500
Pricing: $$
Operating hours:
- Check-in – 3 PM
- Check-out – 12 PM
Sheraton Ottawa Hotel gets high marks for being downtown and packed with useful amenities. It’s an excellent mid-range option with modern rooms that are spacious and equipped with everything you’d expect.
They also have suites available if you need extra room, and their pet-friendly policy means you don’t have to leave four-legged family members behind.
Furthermore, there’s a fitness centre and an indoor heated pool, plus meeting rooms and coworking spaces here. Their onsite restaurant serves classic Canadian cuisine, and the lobby lounge is perfect for unwinding with a drink.
