Doors Open Ottawa

is an annual, free event that invites the public to explore Ottawa’s most architecturally and historically significant buildings—many of which are typically closed to the public or charge admission. Launched in 2002, it has grown into one of Canada’s largest heritage events, attracting nearly 850,000 visits over the years.

The 2025 edition will take place on June 7 and 8, marking its 23rd anniversary. This year, over 90 buildings across Ottawa will participate, offering a mix of in-person, virtual, and hybrid experiences . Notable sites include the Royal Canadian Mint, the Billings Estate Museum, and, for the first time, the Embassy of the People’s Republic of China, which will offer guided tours and cultural performances on Saturday only.

To facilitate exploration, a free shuttle service will operate between various sites from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM on both days . Additionally, new self-guided walking tours will be available, allowing visitors to discover Ottawa’s hidden gems at their own pace.

For more information, including a full list of participating buildings and tour options, visit the official Doors Open Ottawa website.

Doors Open Ottawa 2025 is set for Saturday and Sunday, June 7–8, from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM each day. This free event offers a unique opportunity to explore over 100 architecturally, culturally, and historically significant buildings across Ottawa, many of which are typically closed to the public or charge admission. The event includes a mix of in-person, virtual, and hybrid experiences .

Highlights of Participating Buildings

This year’s lineup features a diverse array of sites, including:

  • Royal Canadian Mint: Explore the facility where Canada’s coins are produced.

  • Billings Estate National Historic Site: Visit Ottawa’s oldest wood-framed house, built in the 1820s, and learn about the city’s early settlers .

  • Embassy of the People’s Republic of China: Offering guided tours and cultural performances on Saturday only .

  • Diefenbunker: Canada’s Cold War Museum: Experience a 30-minute highlights tour of this underground bunker, including the Blast Tunnel and Prime Minister’s Suite. Note that free tickets must be reserved in advance for Saturday .

  • Library and Archives Canada: Discover Canada’s documentary heritage with free admission and no registration required.

For a complete list of participating buildings and their specific open hours, you can refer to the official Doors Open Ottawa 2025 booklet (PDF).

Transportation and Accessibility

To facilitate exploration, a free shuttle service will operate between various sites from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM on both days. This year introduces a new east-end route connecting Vanier Museopark to Cumberland Heritage Village Museum.

Self-Guided Walking Tours

For those who prefer to explore at their own pace, new self-guided walking tours will be available, allowing visitors to discover Ottawa’s hidden gems and historic neighborhoods .

Additional Information

Doors Open Ottawa is the second-largest event of its kind in Canada and one of the largest in the world. It offers a unique opportunity to delve into the city’s rich history, culture, and architecture. Many sites are within walking distance of downtown hotels, making it convenient for visitors.

For more details, including the full list of participating buildings and tour options, visit the official Doors Open Ottawa website.