RCMP Musical Ride Stables - Image 1
1 / 10

RCMP Musical Ride Stables

4.7
·131 reviews·Ottawa, Canada

Witness the precision and grace of the world-famous RCMP Musical Ride and meet the magnificent horses that make it happen.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

June evenings

Sunset Ceremonies offer a magical experience.

CrowdHigh
Loading map...
RCMP Musical Ride Stables - Image 1

RCMP Musical Ride Stables

Best Time

June evenings

Sunset Ceremonies offer a magical experience.

CrowdHigh
Highlights

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.

4.7
(131 reviews)

"An iconic Canadian experience, the stable tour was short but interesting and kids and adults both loved the musical ride."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 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.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Musical Ride Performance

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.

Instagram
Meet the Horses

Meet the Horses

RCMP Stables

Get up close with the magnificent horses of the Musical Ride and learn about their training and care.

Instagram+1
Stable Tours

Stable Tours

RCMP Stables

Take a guided tour to learn about the history of the RCMP horses and their role in Canadian heritage.

Reddit
Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Timing is Everything

Check the schedule for the RCMP Musical Ride performances and open houses, as these are the prime times to see the horses and riders. Some events are free, but donations are encouraged. Instagram+1

Know Before You Go

The RCMP Musical Ride Stables are a popular spot, especially during special events. Arrive early to secure parking and a good viewing spot. Instagram+1

Best Times

When
June evenings
Why
Sunset Ceremonies offer a magical experience.
Crowd
High
When
Open House dates
Why
See demonstrations and meet the riders.
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds for stable visits.
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

A historic and meticulously restored box-driven landau from the RCMP ceremonial fleet will make its debut during this week’s royal visit to Ottawa. #royalfamily #kingcharles #ottawa #rcmp #news
@ctvnews
2.6K likes • 73.5K views

🎯 Check Performance Schedules

Verify dates and times for Musical Ride performances and open houses online. Instagram+1

🚗 Arrive Early for Parking

Free parking is available, but it fills up quickly for popular events. Instagram

🌺Casual Wednesday - Musical Ride Open House at the RCMP Rockcliffe Stables🐎 Address: 1 Sandridge Road, Ottawa, Ontario K1A 0R2 Last Saturday, we attended Musical Ride Open House, which took place at the RCMP Rockliffe Stables. 5 amazing activities we did at this event💥👋 - saw demonstrations from the RCMP’s specialized units🎠 - checked out displays of police equipment🔫 - talked to real police ...
tamir_tal_realtor
9 likes • 267 views
DAY 157! RCMP Musical Ride Stables edition! Big thank you to Constable Andrew Briscoe of the Musical Ride for taking us through the stables today and allowing “Lost III” to join me for my first set of the day. “Lost III” is an absolutely incredible Member of the Ride who was named in honour of our fallen Members in Moncton, NB. #itstartswithten #fitforduty #pushupseveryday #rcmp #musicalride #poli...
thompson_c17
75 likes • 2K views

💰 Bring Donations

While admission is free, food or cash donations for the Ottawa Food Bank are encouraged. Instagram

📸 Capture the Moment

Bring your camera to photograph the stunning horses and riders. Instagram

The iconic Grey Cup paid a visit to our Musical Ride Stables! 🐎 Viewers of our Sunset Ceremony got to experience the best of both worlds when the CFL and RCMP came together as part of our season long relationship 🏈 🇨🇦 #RCMP #CFL #GreyCup
rcmpgrcpolice
568 likes • 15.9K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Check Performance Schedules

Verify dates and times for Musical Ride performances and open houses online. Instagram+1

🚗 Arrive Early for Parking

Free parking is available, but it fills up quickly for popular events. Instagram

💰 Bring Donations

While admission is free, food or cash donations for the Ottawa Food Bank are encouraged. Instagram

📸 Capture the Moment

Bring your camera to photograph the stunning horses and riders. Instagram

🤝 Meet & Greet

After shows, there's often a chance to meet the riders and horses. Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.7
(131 reviews)

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

Incredible Musical Ride performances
Up-close horse encounters
Informative stable tours

What People Dislike

Tours can be short

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. Instagram+1

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. Instagram

Yes, you can often visit the stables to see the horses, especially during open house events or by checking for specific tour availability. InstagramReddit

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. Instagram

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. Instagram

🎫 🎫 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. Instagram

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. Instagram+1

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. Instagram

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. Instagram+1

Follow official RCMP social media channels and tourism websites for Ottawa to stay updated on event schedules, including open houses and Sunset Ceremonies. Instagram+1

🎫 🧭 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. InstagramReddit

The Musical Ride performances, such as the Sunset Ceremonies, usually last for about two hours, offering a comprehensive show. Instagram

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. Instagram+1

Yes, the stables often feature exhibits showcasing RCMP history, gear, and the heritage of the Musical Ride, providing an educational experience. Reddit

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. Reddit

📸 📸 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. Instagram+1

Photography is generally allowed during performances, but be mindful of other attendees and avoid using flash that could startle the horses. Instagram

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. Instagram

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. Instagram

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. Instagram+1

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The RCMP Musical Ride Stables are a fantastic destination for families. Kids will be captivated by the sight of the horses and the precision of the Musical Ride performance. Instagram Open houses often include engaging displays and demonstrations that are perfect for younger audiences. Instagram

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. Instagram

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

For photographers, the RCMP Musical Ride Stables offer a wealth of opportunities. The dynamic action of the Musical Ride performance provides thrilling shots, especially with a telephoto lens. Instagram The stables themselves offer more intimate portraits of the horses and riders. Instagram

Aim for the Sunset Ceremonies for beautiful golden hour lighting. Be mindful of event schedules and any photography restrictions, particularly regarding flash during performances. Instagram

🏛️ History Buffs

History enthusiasts will appreciate the deep roots of the RCMP Musical Ride, dating back to 1876. Learning about the evolution of the ride and seeing historical elements like the Landau carriage offers a tangible connection to Canada's past. TikTok The stables themselves are a piece of history, and tours often delve into the heritage of the force and its equine partners. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Iconic RCMP Musical Ride

The RCMP Musical Ride is a world-renowned equestrian performance featuring a troop of 32 horses and 24 riders. It showcases intricate figures and drills choreographed to music, demonstrating the skill and discipline of both the horses and their handlers. The performance is a significant part of Canadian heritage and a major draw for visitors to Ottawa. Instagram+1

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. TikTok

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. Instagram+1

Visiting the RCMP Stables

The RCMP Musical Ride Stables in Ottawa offer a unique opportunity to go behind the scenes and connect with the horses and riders. Open houses and tours provide insights into the daily lives of these magnificent animals and the dedicated individuals who care for them. InstagramReddit

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. Instagram+1

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. Instagram+1

Historical Significance and Special Events

The RCMP Musical Ride Stables are steeped in history, representing a significant part of Canada's national identity. The presence of historic artifacts, like the restored Landau carriage, further emphasizes this connection to the past. TikTok

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. Instagram+2

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. Instagram

You may also like