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Canada/Things to Do in Ottawa, couple trip

National Gallery of Canada (couple trip)

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How Couple-Friendly is National Gallery of Canada?

92%Couple-Friendly
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What makes it 92% Couple-Friendly: Couples can share guided tours, Slow Looking Sundays, art bingo, and coffee at Happy Goat, plus romantic plaza views; evening free hours enable a low-cost date, though limited seating in peak times.

Google
Reviews4.7/ 5
(from 10,068 reviews)
Why Ottawa's National Gallery is Worth the Trip
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Why Ottawa's National Gallery is Worth the Trip
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Positives:

  • Central location: Steps from Parliament Hill and local shops for a full day of exploring.
  • Architectural highlights: The glass facade and Great Hall provide city views and natural light.
  • On-site amenities: Two cafes and seating areas offer breaks between galleries.

Challenges:

  • Weekend crowds: Expect lines at entry and busier galleries on weekends.
  • Seating shortages: Limited benches in galleries; use cafes for longer rest.
  • Photography rules: Flash and tripods are not allowed inside galleries.
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🏖️ Explore National Gallery of Canada with a local guide: GetYourGuide's 10 BEST Activities and Tours around National Gallery of Canada. Local guides know the hidden gems you'd otherwise miss, read what other travelers experienced, and book easily.

What is National Gallery of Canada?

  • A national art museum in downtown Ottawa that houses Canadian, Indigenous and international artworks
  • A collection of over 40,000 paintings, sculptures and prints ranging from European Old Masters to contemporary Canadian art
  • An architectural landmark by Moshe Safdie featuring a glass-and-limestone facade overlooking the Ottawa River

What is so special about National Gallery of Canada for couple trip?

  1. Explore Canadian and European art collections
  2. Join guided or drop-in tours for insights
  3. Pose at the giant 'Maman' sculpture plaza
  4. Relax in cafes or the seasonal rooftop lounge
  5. Use free audio tours and skip lines with tickets online

Recommended visit duration: 2-4 hours

Why 2-4 hours visit duration is ideal for couple trip: Allows time to view key Canadian and European artworks, join a tour, and enjoy a café break

(View National Gallery of Canada on Map)

Couple-Friendly Activities in National Gallery of Canada

Guided Gallery Tour:

Join a 45-minute tour of must-see artworks and the building.

Tip: Book online to add the $3 tour to your admission and learn insider details together.

"3 to See" Drop-In Tour:

Attend a 30-minute themed tour of three linked artworks on Thursday evenings.

Tip: Go between 5–8 pm on Thursdays for free tours without booking or extra fees.

Self-Guided Audio Tour:

Scan QR codes by artworks for free narrated commentary at your pace.

Tip: Bring headphones and a charged phone to use the audio guide.

"Maman" Sculpture Plaza:

Stroll the outdoor plaza to view Louise Bourgeois’s giant bronze spider.

Tip: Visit at sunset for soft light and city skyline backdrops in photos.

Seasonal Rooftop Lounge:

Relax with drinks and small plates atop the gallery during warmer months.

Tip: Open May–September; arrive mid-week to avoid the weekend crowds.

Happy Goat Coffee Co.:

Grab locally roasted coffee and light bites in the onsite café.

Tip: Stop here mid-visit to recharge before exploring more galleries.

How to Make the Most of Your Visit to National Gallery of Canada

  1. Pre-book tickets: Reserve timed-entry tickets online to skip the entry line.
  2. Free Thursday evenings: Visit after 5 pm on Thursdays for free admission and drop-in tours.
  3. Use QR audio tours: Scan codes by artworks for free narrated guides on your device.
🏖️ Tour National Gallery of Canada like a local: GetYourGuide's Top 10 Activities and Tours in National Gallery of Canada. Local experts uncover hidden treasures you'd never find alone, browse authentic traveler reviews, and book your perfect adventure hassle-free.

Reviews of National Gallery of Canada

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Julie

Julie

Oct 2025

A beautiful building with convenient parking on site and small coffee shop in the building. 2 floors of art mainly contemporary, indigenous and European art. You will need at least 2-3.5 hours to finish. Very spacious. Clean bathrooms and nice staff.

Faria Jerin

Faria Jerin

Oct 2025

The National Gallery of Canada in Ottawa is definitely worth a visit. The architecture is stunning, and the atmosphere feels calm and welcoming. You can find everything from famous Canadian artists to thought-provoking modern art, plus the amazing Indigenous art collection. It’s a place where you can spend hours exploring and always discover something new. I have been there two times but still fee...

Sascha P

Sascha P

Sep 2025

I love how the buildings architecture makes the overall art experience even more incredible. Experiencing art is one thing but have it mixed with another form of art (architecture) and colored walls made me really enjoy this visit even more. Highly recommend it to anyone who loves art and architecture.

Michael Zawerbny

Michael Zawerbny

Aug 2025

Interesting place. The building is a work of art itself. This place has something for everyone. Some of the modern art is total nonsense but there is historical art that is amazing. The best display was the Rideau Cathedral. What an amazing and beautiful piece of audible art. I could have sat and listened all day. Hats off to the people who thought of that.

Sam Jaroudi

Sam Jaroudi

Aug 2025

The National Gallery of Canada is one of the gems that Ottawa has to offer. It's a world class gallery that should be on your list of places top visit when in the Nation's Capital. The facility is modern, spacious, well-staffed and has all the amenities you'd expect from one of the largest art museums in North America. With more than 93,000 works of art, as a permanent collection, you're in fo...

When is the best time to visit National Gallery of Canada (Ottawa, Canada)?

In winter, dress warmly for the plaza and icy walkways; in summer, use the rooftop lounge for cool drinks and views.

✈️ Ready to go? Check the latest flight deals to Ottawa on Trip.com

Explore These Activities

Typical Budget for a Couple (2 Adults)

ItemCost (Approx.)
General admission (per person)CAD 23
Guided tour add-on (per person)CAD 3
Audio guide device rentalCAD 6
Coffee and snackCAD 10
Total EstimatedCAD 68

Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.

Content Notice: This content combines editorial expertise with AI assistance to ensure comprehensive and up-to-date information. Our team regularly curates and reviews all content for accuracy and relevance. Help Us Improve

Map of National Gallery of Canada

Address: 380 Sussex Dr, Ottawa, ON K1N 9N4, Canada

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About National Gallery of Canada

Opening Hours

Monday:Closed
Tuesday:9:30 AM – 5:00 PM
Wednesday:9:30 AM – 5:00 PM
Thursday:9:30 AM – 8:00 PM
Friday:9:30 AM – 5:00 PM
Saturday:9:30 AM – 5:00 PM
Sunday:9:30 AM – 5:00 PM

Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.

Website

Official Website

Phone Number

+1 613-990-1985

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