Emma WhiteRideau Falls invites you to dive into the heart of Canadian history while soaking in some stunning views. These falls, where the Rideau River meets the Ottawa River, have been part of the landscape way before the city even existed.
The name “Rideau” comes from the French word for “curtain,” describing the waterfall’s curtain-like effect. One of the coolest aspects here is getting to see The Twin Falls, as Rideau Falls is actually split into two separate falls by Green Island.
Green Island itself is a lovely little spot with walking paths and memorials that add a peaceful, reflective atmosphere to your visit. Historically, the falls have witnessed Ottawa’s transformation from a simple settlement to the bustling capital of Canada.
- Things to Know
- Where is Ottawa's Rideau Falls?
- How to Get to Ottawa's Rideau Falls
- What to Do and See in Rideau Falls
- Stroll along Green Island's scenic paths and enjoy the views
- Take an Ottawa River cruise from nearby docks
- Visit the historic Rideau Hall, home of the Governor General
- Explore ByWard Market for food, shopping, and entertainment
- Walk around the Prime Minister’s Residence
- Snap photos of the Twin Falls from different lookout points
- Where to Eat and Drink in and near Rideau Falls
- Where to Stay near Rideau Falls
- FAQs about Ottawa’s Rideau Falls
Things to Know
Operating hours: Open 24 hours
Facilities available: Parking area
Where is Ottawa’s Rideau Falls?
Ottawa’s Rideau Falls is such a cool spot, and it’s super easy to find. It’s right where the Rideau River does this dramatic plunge into the Ottawa River, creating these stunning falls that are hard to miss.
Whether you’re a local or just visiting, it’s one of those places where you’ll want to take a stroll, especially since it’s so close to other awesome spots in the city.
How to Get to Ottawa’s Rideau Falls
Closest bus stop: If you’re taking public transit, just hop on an OC Transpo bus and look for routes that drop you off near Sussex Drive—route 9 is a good one to start with.
Driving? Just punch 50 Sussex Dr., into your GPS, and you’ll be there in no time. Alternatively, if you’re up for a little walk or bike ride, the pathways along the Ottawa River offer a scenic route that’s totally worth the trip.
What to Do and See in Rideau Falls
Stroll along Green Island’s scenic paths and enjoy the views
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Green Island gives you the perfect excuse to stretch your legs while soaking in some pretty awesome views. You can wander along the walking paths and catch sight of both the Rideau and Ottawa Rivers converging.
While you’re there, keep an eye out for the various memorials and historical plaques scattered around. They give a bit of context to the area’s past and are kind of like mini history lessons along your stroll.
Even better, you can set up a family picnic near the edge where you can see the falls just a bit better. It’s a casual, no-fuss activity that lets you enjoy the outdoors while being right in the heart of Ottawa.
Take an Ottawa River cruise from nearby docks
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Okay, so if you’ve got a day to spare around Rideau Falls, how about hopping on an Ottawa River cruise? This is one of those cool activities where you just kick back, relax, and let someone else do the navigating while you focus on soaking in some epic views.
The docks nearby have a few different cruise options, so you can pick one that fits your schedule and interests. On the cruise, you can expect to see everything from iconic landmarks like Parliament Hill to the natural beauty lining the riverbanks.
You might even get a little history lesson or two from the guides, who usually have some fun facts to throw your way. And if you’re prone to getting chilly on the water, toss in an extra layer just in case.
Visit the historic Rideau Hall, home of the Governor General
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Website: https://www.gg.ca/
Address: 1 Sussex Dr.
Phone: +1 613 991 4422
Operating hours:
- Monday to Friday – 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM
Any visit to the area isn’t complete without a stop at Rideau Hall. This place is kind of a big deal—it’s the official residence of the Governor General of Canada, after all.
The grounds are open to the public, so you can wander around like you own the place. It’s got some really stunning gardens and even a great view of the falls nearby.
You can often catch a guided tour of the inside, where you’ll get the lowdown on its history and significance—plus a peek at some swanky rooms. If you’re more of the outdoor type, the grounds themselves are worth strolling through.
Explore ByWard Market for food, shopping, and entertainment
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ByWard Market is one of those spots in Ottawa where you can really immerse yourself in the local culture. It’s a bustling hub of activity filled with an eclectic mix of food vendors, boutique shops, and street performers.
If you’re a foodie, you’ve got to indulge in the fresh, locally produced cheese, pastries, and sandwiches. Those farmers’ stalls are bursting with colourful fruits and veggies, perfect for picking up a nutritious snack as you wander around.
Shopping in ByWard is a treat too, with countless shops offering everything from handmade jewellery to chic clothing and quirky souvenirs. Entertainment here is top-notch as well, with buskers and street musicians adding to the lively atmosphere.
Walk around the Prime Minister’s Residence
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Website: http://pm.gc.ca/
Address: 24 Sussex Dr.
Walking around the Prime Minister’s Residence is like getting a little slice of Canadian history and politics wrapped into one picturesque stroll. The residence itself is not open to the public, but the surrounding area offers some lovely views and plenty of history.
You can casually stroll along Sussex Drive and catch glimpses of this stately home where Canadian Prime Ministers have lived since 1951. Don’t miss the chance to explore the surrounding neighbourhood.
It’s one of Ottawa’s most historic and scenic areas, dotted with charming old houses, embassies, and stunning views of the Ottawa River.
Snap photos of the Twin Falls from different lookout points
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Twin Falls at Rideau Falls Park is hands-down one of the most photogenic spots in Ottawa. There are several lookout points around here where you can get some fantastic shots.
One of the best things about Twin Falls is that it’s accessible year-round, and each season offers a different vibe. In the spring and summer, the falls are surrounded by lush greenery, making for some vibrant, nature-filled photos.
Autumn brings a whole new palette of colours, with the fall foliage offering a stunning backdrop, while winter transforms the area into a snowy wonderland. And if you’re into cycling, there are some great bike paths nearby.
Where to Eat and Drink in and near Rideau Falls
Tavern on the Falls
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Address: 1 John St.
Phone: https://www.thetavern.ca/falls-contact
Pricing: $$$
Operating hours:
- Closed for the season
Good to know: Ideal for casual meetups
The Tavern on the Falls menu is all about sharing and enjoying food with your crew. Some of their best-sellers you won’t want to miss include the mouth-watering Korean fried chicken, the loaded nachos, and their classic poutine.
For something a bit lighter, they have a killer Caesar salad and a fantastic charcuterie board. Now, if you’re like me and enjoy pairing your meal with a good drink, their cocktail game is strong.
They offer unique twists on classic cocktails, with their signature drinks like the Maple Old Fashioned and the Berry Basil Smash being the must-tries. One thing to keep your eye on is their live music sessions.
JOEY Rideau
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Address: 50 Rideau St E106
Phone: +1 613 680 5639
Pricing: $$$
Operating hours:
- Sunday to Thursday – 11 AM to 12 AM
- Friday and Saturday – 11 AM to 1 AM
Good to know: Great for date nights, special occasions, or meal with friends
JOEY Rideau got this awesome menu that features everything from shareable plates to hearty mains. I’m talking about must-try dishes like their lettuce wraps, sushi cone, and the house-made veggie burger.
If you’re hitting the place with friends, their hand-pressed burgers and spaghetti pomodoro are crowd-pleasers. And for those days when you just need something comforting, their Baja fish tacos and roasted peanut curry bowl are out of this world.
Plus, they’ve got killer cocktail options like the supersonic gin & tonic, the Moscow mule, and the passion fruit margarita. If cocktails aren’t your thing, they also have a pretty decent selection of wines and beers you can choose from.
Clocktower Brew Pub – Rideau
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Address: 140 Rideau St.
Phone: +1 613 562 4878
Pricing: $$
Operating hours:
- Tuesday to Saturday – 12 PM to 10 PM
- Sunday – 12 PM to 8 PM
Good to know: Great for casual dining, trivia nights, and group hangouts
The Clocktower Brew Pub menu is packed with great options that can satisfy any craving. Whether you’re into sharing some poutine with friends or more in the mood for a juicy burger, they’ve got you covered.
Some of the must-try dishes include their Clocktower nachos, the classic fish and chips, and the chicken wings that are perfect for game nights. Plus, don’t miss out on their flatbreads and the hearty house-made meatloaf, which are always crowd favourites.
Now, they brew their own beers, which is pretty cool, and they have a fantastic selection you’d want to try. If beer isn’t your thing, they’ve got you covered with a solid lineup of wines and cocktails that can hit the spot.
Shawarma Palace
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Address: 464 Rideau St.
Phone: +1 613 789 9533
Pricing: $
Operating hours:
- Sunday to Thursday – 11 AM to 1 AM
- Friday and Saturday – 11 AM to 2 AM
Good to know: Ideal for quick bites, late-night cravings, and takeaway meals
Shawarma Palace has a menu that’s loaded with fantastic Middle Eastern dishes, from mixed shawarma to their BBQ chicken, you’re in for a treat. Some other must-try items include their falafel and the vegetarian plate, which never disappoint.
And if you’re in the mood for something grilled to perfection, you’ve got to check out their kafta kabab, beef kabab, and chicken kabab. Now, their sides feature hummus, garlic, baba ganoush, and rice options, as well as grape leaves, cauliflower, or eggplant.
If you’re looking to add a bit more meat to your meal, they’ve got you covered with options for small, medium, or large portions of chicken or beef. Plus, the chicken wings, either on their own or with fries, are quite popular.
3 Brothers Shawarma & Poutine
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Address: 530 Rideau St.
Phone: +1 613 241 2220
Pricing: $
Operating hours:
- Monday to Sunday – 12 AM to 6 AM, 11 AM to 12 AM
Good to know: Great for families and groups
3 Brothers Shawarma & Poutine have an impressive menu that’s perfect for satisfying any craving. You’ll definitely want to check out their shawarma wraps and combos; they’ve got options featuring chicken, beef, and even vegetarian choices.
Their platters and poutines are no joke either, packed with enough goodness to keep you full and happy. They also offer some tasty salads like tabbouleh and fattoush, and their side orders include items like falafel, fries, garlic potatoes, and more.
If you’re a fan of dipping sauces, you’re in luck—they’ve got a variety of dips and sauces to choose from. Remember, they also offer a 10% discount on pick-up orders from their website, so it’s a nice little bonus if you’re looking to save a bit.
Where to Stay near Rideau Falls
Ottawa Marriott Hotel
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Address: 100 Kent St.
Phone: +1 613-238-1122
Pricing: $-$$
Operating hours:
- Check-in time – 3 PM
- Check-out time – 12 PM
If you’re looking for a great spot to stay close to Rideau Falls, you need to check out the Ottawa Marriott Hotel. This place offers spacious rooms, a modern fitness centre, and an indoor pool that’s perfect for a dip after a day of exploring.
They’ve even got a rooftop lounge with some seriously stunning views of the city. Plus, if you’re travelling for work or just need to stay connected, their business services and meeting rooms are top-notch.
If you’re with family, you’ll love their kid-friendly amenities and activities designed to keep the little ones entertained. And if you’re planning to venture further, the hotel’s location makes it easy to access public transit or grab a cab.
The Westin Ottawa
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Address: 11 Colonel By Dr.
Phone: +1 613 560 7000
Pricing: $-$$
Operating hours:
- Check-in time – 3 PM
- Check-out time – 12 PM
Staying at the Westin Ottawa is like hitting the jackpot when it comes to comfort and convenience. Located right next to the Rideau Canal, it offers direct access to the Rideau Centre for some excellent shopping.
The rooms are super comfy with everything you need to relax, including those heavenly beds they’re famous for. They’ve also got an indoor saltwater pool, a fitness studio, and even a spa if you’re looking to pamper yourself during your stay.
There are also plenty of dining options within and around the hotel. If you’re health-conscious, they have a “RunWESTIN” program that offers curated running routes and even gear lending if you forgot your fitness wear.
Fairmont Château Laurier
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Address: 1 Rideau St.
Phone: +1 613-241-1414
Pricing: $$$
Operating hours:
- Check-in time – 4 PM
- Check-out time – 12 PM
Fairmont Château Laurier is practically an Ottawa landmark, and staying here feels like dipping into a bit of luxury. Here, you can expect plush rooms, an elegant fitness centre, and a heated indoor pool that’s shaped like an art deco treasure.
They’re also renowned for their afternoon tea service—definitely something you should try if you have the time. Nearby, you’ll find plenty of dining options, from the fine dining inside the hotel’s very own Wilfrid’s Restaurant to casual eateries in the market area.
One thing to keep in mind is their frequent guests’ loyalty program, which can offer some great perks like room upgrades and free Wi-Fi, so it’s worth signing up.
ByWard Blue Inn
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Address: 157 Clarence St.
Phone: +1 613 241 2695
Pricing: $$
Operating hours:
- Check in – 4 PM
- Check out – 12 PM
If you’re aiming for a cosy and quirky spot with a lot of character, ByWard Blue Inn is your go-to stay near Rideau Falls. This charming little place offers comfortable rooms that come with private balconies, a perk you don’t often find.
They serve a delightful complimentary breakfast that’s perfect for starting your day. Also, there’s free high-speed Wi-Fi throughout the property, which is great for staying connected or planning your daily adventures.
Located in the heart of the ByWard Market area, this inn puts you within walking distance of an array of shops, restaurants, and cafes. Plus, their library, garden patio, and sauna offer some nice places to unwind after a day of exploring.
Hilton Garden Inn Ottawa Downtown
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Address: 361 Queen St.
Phone: +1 613-234-6363
Pricing: $$
Operating hours:
- Check-in time – 4 PM
- Check-out time – 12 PM
Hilton Garden Inn Ottawa Downtown is a solid choice if you’re looking for reliable comfort with all the amenities you need. The rooms are designed with modern comforts in mind and offer everything from ergonomic work spaces to flat-screen TVs.
They also have an indoor pool and a fitness centre to keep up with your workout routine. Plus, their on-site restaurant and bar mean you don’t have to go far for a good meal.
The inn’s proximity to public transit makes getting around the city a breeze, whether you’re here for work or play. They also have a handy digital check-in process and mobile room key option for a smooth and contactless experience.
