Rideau Canal

Snaking its way through the center of Ottawa, the Rideau Canal is one of the city's most historic attractions. This 125-mile waterway was originally constructed between 1826 and 1832 as a precaution against attacks by the U.S. American forces had planned to invade Canada via the St. Lawrence River, which would have cut communications and commerce in the region. The Rideau Canal was constructed as a means to maintain trade and contact between Montreal and Kingston, Ontario. Today, it connects Ottawa to Kingston, Ontario, roughly 120 miles southwest of the capital. It's also a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the city's most beloved features.

During the summer, you'll find the Rideau Canal flooded with boats (both private and commercial), and by the end of July the canal is in full party mode for the Rideau Canal Festival. As the temperatures begin to drop, the canal transforms into the World's Largest Skating Rink, spanning 4.8 miles and featuring a surface area equivalent to 90 Olympic hockey rinks. It’s also lined with hot-cocoa and snack stalls. According to one TripAdvisor user: "It can get crowded but everyone is friendly and considerate. A really nice adventure while visiting for Winterlude. Try it!"

The Rideau Canal is free to visit. If you're visiting in winter and have your own equipment, you don't have to pay to skate either. You can also rent equipment from one of the several rest areas located along the length of the skating area (skates cost approximately $15 CAD for two hours). For more information, check out the Rideau Canal Waterway and the Rideau Canal Skateway websites.