RCMP Musical Ride Stables
Witness the precision and grace of the world-famous RCMP Musical Ride and meet the magnificent horses that make it happen.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Sunset Ceremonies offer a magical experience.
RCMP Musical Ride Stables
Best Time
Sunset Ceremonies offer a magical experience.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Witness the precision and grace of the world-famous RCMP Musical Ride and meet the magnificent horses that make it happen.
"An iconic Canadian experience, the stable tour was short but interesting and kids and adults both loved the musical ride."
🎯 Check Performance Schedules
Verify dates and times for Musical Ride performances and open houses online.
🚗 Arrive Early for Parking
Free parking is available, but it fills up quickly for popular events.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Musical Ride Performance
Musical Ride Centre, RCMP Rockcliffe Stables
Witness the world-famous RCMP Musical Ride's thrilling cavalry figures and drills choreographed to music.
Meet the Horses
RCMP Stables
Get up close with the magnificent horses of the Musical Ride and learn about their training and care.
Stable Tours
RCMP Stables
Take a guided tour to learn about the history of the RCMP horses and their role in Canadian heritage.
Plans like a pro.
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Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Know Before You Go
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Check Performance Schedules
Verify dates and times for Musical Ride performances and open houses online.
🚗 Arrive Early for Parking
Free parking is available, but it fills up quickly for popular events.
💰 Bring Donations
While admission is free, food or cash donations for the Ottawa Food Bank are encouraged.
📸 Capture the Moment
Bring your camera to photograph the stunning horses and riders.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Check Performance Schedules
Verify dates and times for Musical Ride performances and open houses online.
🚗 Arrive Early for Parking
Free parking is available, but it fills up quickly for popular events.
💰 Bring Donations
While admission is free, food or cash donations for the Ottawa Food Bank are encouraged.
📸 Capture the Moment
Bring your camera to photograph the stunning horses and riders.
🤝 Meet & Greet
After shows, there's often a chance to meet the riders and horses.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the RCMP Musical Ride Stables as an iconic Canadian experience, highlighting the incredible performances and the chance to see the famous horses up close. The free admission and engaging tours make it a highly recommended stop for families and anyone interested in Canadian heritage. Some mention the tours can be brief but are informative.
"The RCMP Musical Ride Open House is a must-see in Ottawa. You get to visit the stables, meet the famous horses, and see the riders in action. There are fun exhibits, RCMP gear displays, and special units to check out.
It’s free, but they encourage food or cash donations for the Ottawa Food Bank. Held at the Rockcliffe Stables, it’s a great way to experience a piece of Canadian history. Worth a visit!"
Valeriia O
"An iconic Canadian experience. The stable tour was short but interesting and kids and adults both loved the musical ride. A great part of any Ottawa tour or trip."
Aidan Leach
"30 mins tour and learned a lot about RCMP horses"
Sophia H
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The RCMP Musical Ride Stables are located at 1 Sandridge Road, Ottawa, Ontario. Public transit options are available, and driving is also feasible with free parking provided during events.
Yes, free parking is available in a field near the stables, but it can fill up quickly for special events like the Sunset Ceremonies. Arriving early is recommended.
Yes, you can often visit the stables to see the horses, especially during open house events or by checking for specific tour availability.
While specific accessibility details may vary, many areas are generally accessible. It's advisable to contact the stables directly for detailed information regarding accessibility for tours and events.
For the Sunset Ceremonies, arriving early by car is common due to the free parking. However, consider public transport or ride-sharing services to avoid parking hassles if you prefer.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission to the RCMP Musical Ride performances, like the Sunset Ceremonies, is often free, but donations are encouraged. Check specific event details for ticketing requirements.
The stables themselves may have viewing opportunities outside of scheduled events, but performances and tours have specific operating hours. It's best to check the official RCMP Musical Ride schedule.
While many events are free, donations for the Ottawa Food Bank are welcomed. Special tours or events might have associated costs, so always check in advance.
Information on private tours is not widely advertised, but diplomatic communities and special groups have been hosted. Inquire directly with the RCMP for potential group or private visit arrangements.
Follow official RCMP social media channels and tourism websites for Ottawa to stay updated on event schedules, including open houses and Sunset Ceremonies.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Open houses typically feature demonstrations from RCMP specialized units, displays of RCMP gear, and opportunities to see the Musical Ride horses up close.
The Musical Ride performances, such as the Sunset Ceremonies, usually last for about two hours, offering a comprehensive show.
During open houses and after performances, there are often opportunities for a meet and greet with the horses and riders, allowing for close observation and photos.
Yes, the stables often feature exhibits showcasing RCMP history, gear, and the heritage of the Musical Ride, providing an educational experience.
The 'Guest Building' likely refers to an area for visitors or a specific facility within the stables complex. Reviews mention it was being renovated at one point, but tours continued.
📸 📸 Photography
The performance arena offers dynamic shots during the ride. The stables themselves provide excellent opportunities for capturing the horses and riders in a more intimate setting.
Photography is generally allowed during performances, but be mindful of other attendees and avoid using flash that could startle the horses.
A telephoto lens can be useful for capturing details of the riders and horses during the performance. For stable shots, a versatile zoom lens or even a smartphone can work well.
Due to security and the presence of animals, drone usage is typically restricted at sensitive locations like RCMP facilities. It's best to assume drones are not permitted unless explicitly stated otherwise.
Late afternoon or early evening, especially during the Sunset Ceremonies, offers beautiful lighting. For stable photos, midday can provide good natural light, but check for any indoor lighting conditions.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider attending a Sunset Ceremony for a memorable evening, but be sure to arrive early for parking. The opportunity to see the horses up close and potentially meet the riders after the show is a highlight for many children.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Aim for the Sunset Ceremonies for beautiful golden hour lighting. Be mindful of event schedules and any photography restrictions, particularly regarding flash during performances.
🏛️ History Buffs
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Iconic RCMP Musical Ride
Originating in 1876, the Musical Ride was initially a way to showcase the horsemanship of the North-West Mounted Police. Over the years, it has evolved into a sophisticated display of precision and artistry. The horses are specially selected for their temperament and athleticism, and undergo rigorous training.
Visitors can witness the Musical Ride during scheduled performances, often held at the RCMP Rockcliffe Stables. These events, like the Sunset Ceremonies, are popular and draw large crowds, offering a memorable experience of Canadian culture and tradition.
Visiting the RCMP Stables
During visits, guests can often see the horses in their stalls, learn about their feeding and grooming routines, and understand the training process. Some tours may also include demonstrations by specialized RCMP units, offering a broader perspective on the force's work.
It's important to check the schedule for specific visiting hours and events, as access to the stables can be tied to performances or special open days. These visits are generally family-friendly and provide an educational and engaging experience for all ages.
Historical Significance and Special Events
Throughout the year, the stables host various special events. These can include welcoming new Canadian citizens, celebrating national holidays, or even hosting iconic trophies like the Grey Cup, blending sporting events with RCMP traditions.
These events not only highlight the Musical Ride but also showcase the RCMP's broader role in community engagement and national celebrations, making a visit a rich cultural experience.
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