Senate of Canada Building
Discover Canada's democracy in a stunning former train station, now home to the Senate. Free tours offer history and insight.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more intimate tours
Senate of Canada Building
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more intimate tours

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover Canada's democracy in a stunning former train station, now home to the Senate. Free tours offer history and insight.
"An informative and interesting tour! The building is beautiful, a mix of modern and old."
🎯 Book Tours Ahead of Time
Free tours are popular! Reserve your spot online to avoid disappointment. :admission_tickets:
🏛️ Admire the Architecture
The building's history as a train station is evident in its grand design. :camerawithflash:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Senate Chamber
Main Conference Room
Experience the heart of Canada's Upper Chamber, beautifully renovated in the style of the British Senate.

Historic Train Station Architecture
Exterior and Interior
Marvel at the grand architecture of the former Union Train Station, a stunning blend of old and new.

Informative Guided Tours
Throughout the Building
Engage with passionate guides who bring Canadian democracy and the building's history to life.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Your Free Tour in Advance
Explore Beyond the Senate
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Book Tours Ahead of Time
Free tours are popular! Reserve your spot online to avoid disappointment. :admission_tickets:
🏛️ Admire the Architecture
The building's history as a train station is evident in its grand design. :camerawithflash:
🗣️ Engage with Guides
Guides offer fascinating insights into Canadian democracy and the Senate's work. :speech_balloon:
🚶 Explore Nearby
Combine your visit with tours of the House of Commons and East Block. :world_map:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Book Tours Ahead of Time
Free tours are popular! Reserve your spot online to avoid disappointment. :admission_tickets:
🏛️ Admire the Architecture
The building's history as a train station is evident in its grand design. :camerawithflash:
🗣️ Engage with Guides
Guides offer fascinating insights into Canadian democracy and the Senate's work. :speech_balloon:
🚶 Explore Nearby
Combine your visit with tours of the House of Commons and East Block. :world_map:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Senate of Canada Building for its impressive architecture and the informative, engaging guided tours. Many highlight the building's history as a former train station and the guides' ability to explain Canada's legislative system. While tours are free, booking in advance is crucial.
"A place worth visiting when you stay in Ottawa.
This building is the Ottawa train station about one hundred years ago, and serves as a multifunctional building once the new train station has been built.
It is now the Senate of Canada. The conference room is renovated according to the style of British senate. During the tour, you will visit the main conference room and the minor conference room. The guide will introduce the details of the building and their underlying meaning. It is an informative and interesting tour!"
TzuHsien Tsai
"Shout out to Christian, our guide.
We did all 3 buildings and he was the top 1 guide (the other 1 were amazing as well, but Christian stood out)
The building is beautiful, a mix of modern and old.
Really interesting visit."
Franck Cellier
"Kate is a great tour guide, the original building has been under construction since 2019, very informative and great education, cool education about our parliament and how the Senate works. Very interesting information. As a 11 generation, I found it very informative . The main room was awesome and the committee room is neat, Katie did a great job explaining it"
Ken Pinder
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Senate of Canada Building is located on Parliament Hill in Ottawa. It's easily accessible by public transit, with several bus routes stopping nearby. Walking from downtown Ottawa is also a pleasant option. Parking can be limited and expensive in the area, so public transport or walking is often recommended.
While there are parking garages in the vicinity, they can be costly and fill up quickly, especially during busy periods. Consider using public transportation or ride-sharing services for easier access.
Yes, you can take photos of the exterior of the Senate of Canada Building and the surrounding Parliament Hill grounds. It's a popular spot for photography, offering great views of the architecture.
The Senate of Canada Building is generally accessible. Guided tours can accommodate individuals with mobility challenges, but it's always best to contact them in advance to confirm specific needs.
Public transit is a convenient way to reach Parliament Hill. OC Transpo buses serve the area frequently. Many visitors also enjoy walking from nearby hotels and attractions.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Guided tours of the Senate of Canada Building are free, but booking in advance is highly recommended to secure your spot. You can reserve tickets online through the Parliament of Canada website.
Tour hours can vary depending on the season and parliamentary schedule. It's best to check the official Parliament of Canada website for the most up-to-date tour times and availability.
A typical guided tour of the Senate of Canada Building lasts approximately 30 minutes, offering a concise yet informative overview of the building and its functions.
While guided tours are the primary way to experience the interior, you can explore the exterior grounds of Parliament Hill. For interior access, booking a guided tour is necessary.
There are no specific age limits for tours, and they are generally suitable for all ages. Children can find the history and explanations engaging, especially when presented by enthusiastic guides.
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
Inside, you'll see the beautifully renovated Senate Chamber, designed in the style of the British Senate, and learn about the legislative process. You'll also discover the building's history as a former train station.
Originally built as Ottawa's Union Train Station, it was later repurposed to house the Senate of Canada after the original Centre Block underwent renovations. It's a significant piece of Ottawa's architectural and historical landscape.
The Senate of Canada Building occasionally hosts events like Model Senate, where students can participate in a simulated parliamentary session. Check the official website for upcoming events.
There is no strict dress code for visiting the Senate of Canada Building. Casual, comfortable attire is perfectly acceptable for tours.
Photography is generally permitted inside the Senate of Canada Building during tours, but it's always a good idea to check with your guide for any specific restrictions in certain areas.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no dining facilities directly within the Senate of Canada Building itself. However, numerous cafes, restaurants, and food vendors are located within walking distance on Parliament Hill and in the surrounding downtown Ottawa area.
You'll find a wide range of options, from quick-service cafes and sandwich shops to sit-down restaurants offering various cuisines. Many options cater to tourists and locals alike.
While specific policies can vary, it's generally advisable to consume outside food and beverages before entering for a tour. Check with the tour organizers if you have specific dietary needs or require to bring items.
Many visitors enjoy exploring the ByWard Market, a short walk from Parliament Hill, which offers a diverse array of food stalls and restaurants. Alternatively, numerous eateries are located along Sparks Street and Elgin Street.
Some restaurants in the downtown Ottawa area offer views of Parliament Hill, providing a scenic backdrop to your dining experience. Research local establishments for options with a view.
📸 📸 Photography
The exterior architecture, especially the grand facade and the building's historical elements, offers excellent photo opportunities. Inside, the Senate Chamber itself is a striking subject.
Professional photography and drone usage may require special permits and are subject to strict regulations on Parliament Hill. It's essential to check with the relevant authorities for guidelines and permissions.
Golden hour, shortly after sunrise or before sunset, can provide beautiful lighting for exterior shots. Midday offers bright, clear light for capturing architectural details.
Generally, photography is allowed inside the Senate Chamber during tours, but flash photography might be restricted to protect the interior and artifacts. Always follow your guide's instructions.
A wide-angle lens is useful for capturing the grandeur of the building's exterior and interior spaces. A standard zoom lens is versatile for various shots. Consider a tripod for low-light conditions, but be mindful of any restrictions.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider combining your visit with other Parliament Hill attractions for a full day of exploration. The open spaces around Parliament are great for kids to run around, and the sheer scale of the buildings can be awe-inspiring. Remember to book tours in advance to ensure a smooth visit for the whole family.
🏛️ History Buffs & Architecture Enthusiasts
Take advantage of the guided tours to delve deeper into the building's past and its significance in Canadian governance. Pay close attention to the details in the Senate Chamber and learn about the historical context that led to its repurposing. It’s a chance to connect with Canada’s heritage in a tangible way.
🎓 Students & Model Parliament Participants
Furthermore, the building hosts events like Model Senate, offering students a unique opportunity to engage directly with parliamentary procedures and debate. This hands-on experience can be incredibly valuable for those interested in politics, law, or public service.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into Canadian Democracy
Visitors can experience this history firsthand through free guided tours. These tours offer an invaluable opportunity to learn about the role of the Senate, the legislative process, and the historical significance of the building. Guides often share engaging anecdotes and detailed explanations, making the complex workings of government accessible and interesting for all ages.
Beyond the Senate Chamber itself, the building's interior showcases a beautiful blend of historic architecture and modern renovations. The attention to detail in preserving the original character while accommodating contemporary needs is evident throughout. It’s a place where history meets modern democracy, offering a unique educational and cultural experience for anyone visiting Ottawa.
Architectural Heritage: From Station to Senate
When the original Centre Block of Parliament was damaged, the former train station was ingeniously transformed into the Senate's temporary home. This transition involved significant renovations to adapt the space for parliamentary sittings. The Senate Chamber within the building is a particular highlight, meticulously designed to mirror the style and function of the British House of Lords, showcasing a commitment to tradition and solemnity.
The building's exterior also offers a striking visual, especially when viewed from Parliament Hill or the Rideau Canal. Its presence adds to the iconic skyline of Ottawa, blending seamlessly with other significant government buildings. For architecture enthusiasts, the Senate of Canada Building presents a fascinating case study in adaptive reuse and the preservation of national heritage.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit