Ottawa Locks

The Basics

One of the best ways to see the canal locks and Ottawa is aboard a scenic canal or river cruise. Cruises along this UNESCO World Heritage–listed waterway offer views from the water of notable attractions, like the National Arts Centre, Canadian Museum of Nature, Château Laurier, and Dow’s Lake. Guided bike tours of the Canadian capital often pass along the Rideau Canal path with a stop to watch as boats pass through the locks. One of the best views of the locks is from Plaza Bridge.

Things to Know Before You Go

• The Ottawa Locks are a must-see for history buffs and families.
• Wheelchair accessible restrooms can be found inside the lockstation.
• Don’t forget to bring sunglasses, sunscreen, and a hat, especially if you’re taking a canal cruise.

How to Get There

The Ottawa Locks 1 to 8 run from the Chateau Laurier hotel to Carlton University. It’s easy to get there on foot or by bike.

When to Get There

If you want to see the Ottawa Locks in action, you’ll have to visit during the summer months (May to October). In winter, the canal freezes, becoming the world’s largest outdoor skating rink. Boats can pass through the locks until 4pm Monday to Thursday and 7pm on weekends and holidays.

Bytown Museum

Before you visit the Ottawa Locks, stop in for a visit at the Bytown Museum, housed in the city’s oldest stone building adjacent to the locks. The museum traces the history of Ottawa, including the planning and construction of the Rideau Canal between 1826 and 1832.

How long does it take to go through the Ottawa locks?

It takes at least 1.5 hours to go through the eight Ottawa locks along the Rideau Canal to the Ottawa River. This is the first and largest set of locks in the Rideau Lock system; it takes at least two days to complete the entire 47-lock route to Lake Ontario.

How many locks are there in Ottawa?

There are eight historic locks located in the Ottawa lock system along the channel of the Rideau Canal that runs through the city. This set of locks one through eight are operated by hand. A channel walk lines the locks, so you can admire them by both land and water.

How much does it cost to go through the locks in Ottawa?

Passage through a single lockage is C$1 per foot for boats, but most visitors experience the locks via a sightseeing Rideau canal cruise that costs around C$35 per person. You can also view the locks along the scenic walkway lining the canal for free.

What time do locks close on Rideau Canal?

The operating schedule for the locks changes monthly between May and September; the locks do not operate in the winter when the canal freezes. Opening times are generally between 9am and 10am, and closing times are around 4pm on weekdays; the locks close later on weekends and holidays.

Are the Ottawa Locks worth visiting?

Yes, the Ottawa Locks are a UNESCO World Heritage Site and an example of 19th-century engineering. This stretch of the Rideau Lock system is particularly scenic and lined with several historic landmarks, including the Parliament of Canada, Canadian Museum of Nature, Fairmont Château Laurier, Dow’s Lake, and National Arts Centre.

How far in advance should I book an Ottawa Locks river cruise?

Though you can sometimes find last-minute availability for Ottawa Locks river cruises, it’s a good idea to book your tickets at least a few days in advance to avoid finding these popular cruises sold out. You can book Rideau Canal cruise tickets online for dates from May–September.