Rideau Canal (with baby)
How Baby-Friendly is Rideau Canal?
What makes it 77% Baby-Friendly: Parents with babies can push strollers on smooth canal paths and ride the cruise with onboard washrooms; Rideau Centre nearby offers nursing room, yet outdoor stretches lack shade and diaper tables.
Positives:
- Stroller-Friendly Paths: Smooth paved pathways and benches make walking with a stroller easy.
- Baby Amenities Nearby: Rideau Centre offers nursing rooms and complimentary stroller rentals close to the canal.
Challenges:
- Limited Off-Season Facilities: Lockstation washrooms are open mid-May to mid-October; bring a portable mat when closed.
- Sun Exposure on Canal: Little shade along the water; pack a sunhat and apply sunscreen regularly.
What is Rideau Canal?
- A historic waterway stretching 202 kilometres from Ottawa to Lake Ontario and the Saint Lawrence River
- An early 19th-century engineering project featuring a series of 45 locks, dams and channels for reliable navigation
- A UNESCO World Heritage Site recognized for its intact original infrastructure and stone lockstations
What is so special about Rideau Canal for with baby?
- Smooth stroller-friendly paths along the canal
- Guided electric boat tours with onboard washrooms
- Covered pontoon rentals for a gentle family ride
- Grassy picnic spots with changing facilities nearby
- Baby-friendly nursing rooms and stroller rentals at Rideau Centre
- Seasonal tulip blooms and clear summer days enhance the visit
Recommended visit duration: 1-2 hours
Why 1-2 hours visit duration is ideal for with baby: Allows time for a stroller walk and a short canal cruise without rushing.
Baby-Friendly Activities in Rideau Canal
Stroller-Friendly Canal Walk:
Walk along the Rideau Canal Western and Eastern Pathways on smooth paved surfaces.
Tip: Start near Dow’s Lake to use nearby washrooms and benches.
Electric Canal Cruise:
Board an electric boat for a guided 90-minute tour with indoor seating and washrooms onboard.
Tip: Book in advance and arrive 15 minutes early to secure a stroller-friendly spot.
Pontoon Boat Rental:
Rent a covered pontoon boat from Brown’s Marina for a gentle family ride on the canal.
Tip: Confirm availability of an infant lifejacket and bring sun protection.
Picnic on Grassy Banks:
Enjoy a family picnic on the grassy banks beside the canal.
Tip: Bring a portable changing mat, pack a blanket, and use lockstation waste bins.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Rideau Canal
- Arrive Early: Beat crowds at cruise departure points to secure a stroller-friendly spot.
- Pack Light: Use a backpack with baby essentials to keep hands free during walks.
- Plan Lockstation Stops: Schedule breaks at lockstations with washrooms to change diapers and rest.
Reviews of Rideau Canal
Dave Paul
Must visit place when in Ottawa. Boat ride or cycling whatever you prefer is a good way to spend time around the canal. There are not many places to park so look for parking options.
Sanmeet Gurudatta
Tourist in ottowa ! You need to see this . This is a place you want to see in summers and in winters. The vibe here is very nice - full atmosphere for a family outing plus amazing food options by the street . The walk around canal is amazing , you can take a walk by water , by the canal , you can walk over bridge to Quebec. Whole area is scenic and beautiful. You can also go for a run or ride a bi...
Brad
This is a 202 km long canal linking the Ottawa River in Ottawa to Lake Ontario in Kingston. It was constructed between 1826 to 1832 and includes 46 locks, raising boats 83 metres upstream to Rideau Lakes & lowering 50 metres back down to Kingston. The Rideau Canal is a UNESO World Heritage Site and considered to be the best preserved 'slackwater' canal in North America. You can view locks 1-8 dir...
Julius Trujillo (Growth Marketing Manager)
Looking for the ultimate Ottawa experience? The Rideau Canal is a must-see, no matter the season! This UNESCO World Heritage Site winds through the heart of the city, offering a picture-perfect backdrop for every kind of adventure. In the warmer months, set sail on a boat cruise, cast a line for some fishing, or simply stroll or cycle along scenic pathways-don’t forget to pack some snacks for the ...
David
It’s a canal of historic importance to Canada. There’s not much to do about it though, especially if it’s not frozen for skating. And I was only really able to get subpar pictures from the sides
When is the best time to visit Rideau Canal (Ottawa, Canada)?
In mid-May, admire tulips at Commissioners Park near Dow’s Lake. In summer, enjoy shaded picnic spots and calm cruises. In winter, use cleared, paved paths for safe stroller walks.
Explore These Activities
Typical Budget for a Family of 3 (2 Adults + 1 Baby)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Electric Canal Cruise (2 adults) | CAD 96 |
| Pontoon Boat Rental (3 hrs) | CAD 160 |
| Snacks and Drinks | CAD 20 |
| Total Estimated | CAD 276 |
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 Rideau Canal
Address: Rideau Canal, Ottawa, ON, Canada
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