Peace Tower
Ottawa, ON
Soaring above Ottawa’s Parliament Hill, the Peace Tower is one of Canada’s most recognizable symbols. While it’s not the city’s tallest building, the Gothic-style bell and clock tower—which reaches a height of 322 feet (98 meters)—dominates the Ottawa skyline.
The basics
The Peace Tower is currently undergoing renovations until 2027. When it reopens, you can climb the historic tower or take the elevator, and enjoy spectacular city views from the observation deck. At the tower’s base, the Memorial Chamber honors Canadian soldiers who died in action: the names of these soldiers are collected in the Books of Remembrance. You can spot the Peace Tower and Parliament Hill complex on Ottawa bike tours, hop-on hop-off bus tours, Ottawa River cruises, and amphibious tours (which travel on land and water).
Things to know before you go
- Free tickets are available at 90 Wellington Street on a first-come first-serve basis. You must get them in advance.
- Tickets are not required if you visit the Centre Block on a guided tour.
- The Peace Tower is wheelchair-accessible.
- Wear comfortable shoes if you plan to climb to the top.
- Keep your voice low and dress modestly in the Memorial Chamber.
How to get there
The Peace Tower is in Downtown Ottawa, on the southern bank of the Ottawa River. It’s within easy walking distance of many major hotels and attractions including ByWard Market and the National Gallery of Canada. Many bus routes, including the 6, 7, and 14, stop nearby. Nearby parking is limited so driving is not recommended.
When to get there
When the Peace Tower reopens, you can enjoy carillon performances at noon on weekdays between September and June. During the summer months, there is a 1-hour recital beginning at 11 am. The tower is often illuminated on special occasions, including National Indigenous People’s Day on June 21 and Remembrance Day on November 11.
How to hear the bells ring
One of the Peace Tower’s most distinctive features is its 53-bell carillon, one of the oldest and finest in North America. Each bell is a different size and is played manually by a carillonneur who sits in a room mid-way up the tower and plays specially arranged pieces of music using a keyboard connected to each bell clapper.
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