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Senate of Canada Building

4.7
·193 reviews·Ottawa, Canada

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

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekdays, mornings

Fewer crowds, more intimate tours

CrowdLow
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Senate of Canada Building - Image 1

Senate of Canada Building

Best Time

Weekdays, mornings

Fewer crowds, more intimate tours

CrowdLow
Highlights

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.

4.7
(193 reviews)

"An informative and interesting tour! The building is beautiful, a mix of modern and old."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 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:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Senate Chamber

The Senate Chamber

Main Conference Room

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

Reddit
Historic Train Station Architecture

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.

InstagramReddit
Informative Guided Tours

Informative Guided Tours

Throughout the Building

Engage with passionate guides who bring Canadian democracy and the building's history to life.

Reddit
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Planning Your Visit

Book Your Free Tour in Advance

Free guided tours of the Senate of Canada Building are highly recommended. Booking ahead is essential, especially during peak seasons, to secure your spot and learn about Canada's legislative system from knowledgeable guides. InstagramReddit

Explore Beyond the Senate

While the Senate is a highlight, consider touring the historic House of Commons at West Block and East Block for a comprehensive understanding of Canadian democracy. Instagram+1

Best Times

When
Weekdays, mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more intimate tours
Crowd
Low
When
Weekends, afternoons
Why
Good for families, vibrant atmosphere
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Snoop Dogg has joined a bid to purchase the Ottawa Senators 👀👀
@uninterruptedcanada
54.5K likes • 442.3K views

🎯 Book Tours Ahead of Time

Free tours are popular! Reserve your spot online to avoid disappointment. InstagramReddit :admission_tickets:

🏛️ Admire the Architecture

The building's history as a train station is evident in its grand design. InstagramReddit :camerawithflash:

hockey is back this month ! #ottawasenators #hockey #NHL #torontomapleleafs #fyp @Ottawa Senators @Toronto Maple Leafs
@selenaohari
51.2K likes • 321.8K views
Model Senate 2024 applications are now OPEN | Les candidatures pour la Simulation du Sénat 2024 sont maintenant OUVERTES 📅 When: March 21-23, 2024 📍 Where: Senate of Canada Building, Ottawa, Ontario 🔗How: Link in bio ___ 📅 Quand : Du 21 au 23 mars 2024 📍 Où : À l’édifice du Sénat du Canada, à Ottawa (Ontario) 🔗 Comment : Lien dans la bio #SenCA #ModelSenate2024 #SimulationSénat2024
sencanada
91 likes • 4K views

🗣️ Engage with Guides

Guides offer fascinating insights into Canadian democracy and the Senate's work. Reddit :speech_balloon:

🚶 Explore Nearby

Combine your visit with tours of the House of Commons and East Block. Instagram+1 :world_map:

Come join me for a quick tour of the Senate of Canada building. 🇨🇦
victor.boudreau
36 likes • 326 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Book Tours Ahead of Time

Free tours are popular! Reserve your spot online to avoid disappointment. InstagramReddit :admission_tickets:

🏛️ Admire the Architecture

The building's history as a train station is evident in its grand design. InstagramReddit :camerawithflash:

🗣️ Engage with Guides

Guides offer fascinating insights into Canadian democracy and the Senate's work. Reddit :speech_balloon:

🚶 Explore Nearby

Combine your visit with tours of the House of Commons and East Block. Instagram+1 :world_map:

What Travellers Say

4.7
(193 reviews)

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

Impressive architecture
Informative guided tours
Building's history

What People Dislike

Need to book in advance

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Instagram

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. Reddit

🎫 🎫 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. InstagramReddit

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. Instagram

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

🎫 🏛️ 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. InstagramReddit

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. Instagram+1

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. Instagram

There is no strict dress code for visiting the Senate of Canada Building. Casual, comfortable attire is perfectly acceptable for tours. Reddit

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. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ 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. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

📸 📸 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. InstagramReddit

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. Reddit

Golden hour, shortly after sunrise or before sunset, can provide beautiful lighting for exterior shots. Midday offers bright, clear light for capturing architectural details. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Senate of Canada Building offers an engaging experience for families. The free guided tours are designed to be informative and interactive, making history and government accessible to younger minds. Guides often use storytelling to explain the Senate's role and the building's past as a train station, which can capture children's imaginations. Reddit

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. Instagram

🏛️ History Buffs & Architecture Enthusiasts

For those fascinated by history and architecture, the Senate of Canada Building is a must-visit. Its transformation from a bustling Union Train Station to the seat of the Senate provides a compelling narrative of Ottawa's development. The Beaux-Arts architectural style and the detailed renovations offer a rich visual experience. Instagram+1

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. Reddit

🎓 Students & Model Parliament Participants

The Senate of Canada Building is an excellent educational resource for students. The guided tours provide a practical understanding of Canada's parliamentary system and the functions of the Senate. It's a perfect complement to classroom learning about civics and government. Reddit

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. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

A Glimpse into Canadian Democracy

The Senate of Canada Building is more than just an architectural marvel; it's a vital part of Canada's democratic process. Originally serving as the Union Train Station in Ottawa, its grand design reflects a bygone era of travel and civic pride. After the original Parliament buildings were damaged by fire, this station was repurposed to house the Senate, becoming a symbol of resilience and adaptation. Today, it stands as a testament to Canada's evolving history and its commitment to representative government. Instagram+1

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. InstagramReddit

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. InstagramReddit

Architectural Heritage: From Station to Senate

The Senate of Canada Building boasts a rich architectural heritage, originally constructed as the Union Train Station in the early 20th century. Its design, reminiscent of Toronto's Union Station, features grand Beaux-Arts elements, including impressive stonework, large arched windows, and a majestic central hall. This historical function is still palpable, offering visitors a sense of stepping back in time. Instagram+1

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. Reddit

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. Instagram+1

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