Discover the enchantment of Chaudière Falls. Join us for a fun and informative guided tour of this stunning landmark, where we’ll explore its fascinating heritage and promising future. Don’t miss out, space is limited.
We are proud to showcase one of Ottawa’s most stunning landmarks, Chaudière Falls, during Doors Open Ottawa 2024.
Nestled along the banks of the mighty Ottawa River lies this hidden gem, a testament to both history and progress. Here, amidst awe-inspiring beauty, echoes of the past harmonize with the present and future. Embark on a journey through time as you explore the storied heritage of this enchanting location.
Guided, in-person walking tours will take place on Saturday, June 1 and Sunday, June 2 from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Tours will take about 45 minutes to complete and be conducted outdoors only. Hurry, though – registration is required in advance, and space is limited.
Doors Open Ottawa is a City of Ottawa initiative taking place from June 1 to 2, 2024 in which visitors are given the opportunity to learn more about what has been hiding in their “backyard” while exploring some of the city’s most prestigious buildings and facilities.
What you need to know to plan your visit:
Admission
Free to enjoy.
Where to find us
At 4 Booth Street on Chaudière Island, north of the Canadian War Museum.
Prepare for the weather
Tours will take place outdoors rain or shine (except during electrical storms), so please dress for the weather.
Bike, bus or stroll
Accessible from the Ottawa River Pathway, or by OC Transpo. There is no onsite parking and limited parking nearby.
Enjoy the views
Accessible via wide walkways. Seating areas are available.
Pack a snack
Food and drinks are not available on-site. Consider bringing your own snacks and drinks to enjoy in the park area with the stunning Chaudière Falls as a backdrop.
Chaudière Falls is a captivating destination, steeped in Indigenous history and tales of early exploration. The falls have witnessed centuries of change, making them not only a natural wonder but also a cultural and historical landmark.
Home to Canada’s oldest hydroelectric station still in operation, Chaudière Falls was responsible for lighting Ottawa’s streets with electricity and fuelled the industrial explosion of the mid-1800s by providing water power for the vast complex of lumber mills that once occupied the shoreline of the Ottawa River. Elements of the city’s industrial past remain today, including two of the site’s oldest buildings, which survived the Great Fire of 1900.
Today, a new, modern generating station exemplifies responsible hydroelectric generation with minimal to zero impact on the visual, natural and aquatic environments and serves as a tourist attraction – offering safe viewing platforms, a bridge across the intake canal, and stunning views.
