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Canada/Things to Do in Ottawa, solo trip

National Gallery of Canada (solo trip)

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How Solo-Friendly is National Gallery of Canada?

91%Solo-Friendly
View Map

What makes it 91% Solo-Friendly: The gallery offers quiet halls, free QR audio, small group tours, and free Thursday nights, so solo travelers can linger at their pace; only drawback is paid admission and possible weekend crowds.

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:

  • Downtown Location: Steps from Parliament Hill and public transit for easy access
  • Flexible Visits: Self-guided and guided options let you choose your pace

Challenges:

  • Security Screening: Allow 10 minutes before entry for mandatory bag checks
  • Low Lighting: Galleries use dim lighting; watch your step and stay near markers
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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 solo trip?

  1. Use QR audio guides to customize your own tour
  2. Join free Thursday “3 to See” tours for quick highlights
  3. See the iconic “Maman” sculpture outdoors without extra cost
  4. Enjoy breaks at on-site Happy Goat Coffee Co.
  5. Downtown location makes it easy to combine with other city sights

Recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours

Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for solo trip: Allows time to see major Canadian and European collections plus a café break

(View National Gallery of Canada on Map)

Solo-Friendly Activities in National Gallery of Canada

Scan QR Code Audio Tours:

Access free audio commentaries at your own pace.

Tip: Bring headphones and ensure your phone battery is full

3 to See Drop-In Tours:

Join 30-minute themed tours every Thursday evening.

Tip: Arrive by 5 pm to secure a spot; tours start hourly

Maman Sculpture and Plaza:

Photograph Louise Bourgeois’s giant spider outdoors.

Tip: Visit at dusk for softer light on the plaza

Canadian Art Collection:

Explore works from the Group of Seven to contemporary artists.

Tip: Use the gallery map to locate standout pieces quickly

Happy Goat Coffee Co.:

Grab a coffee or snack near the Group Entrance.

Tip: Try the cold brew and sit by the window for people-watching

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

  1. Top-Floor Start: Begin on the top level and descend to follow a logical route
  2. Use Digital Map: Download the gallery map beforehand to navigate without backtracking
🏖️ 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)?

Check summer Free Thursday Nights (5–8 pm) for free admission and themed tours; in winter, warm up in the café and enjoy snowy plaza views from indoors.

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

Explore These Activities

Typical Budget for Solo Traveler (1 Adult)

ItemCost (Approx.)
Adult admissionCAD 20
Audio guide device rentalCAD 6
Coffee at Happy GoatCAD 5
Total EstimatedCAD 31

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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