Accessible travel in Ottawa

All national museums are wheelchair accessible. National and local museums in the Ottawa Museum Network offer sensory-friendly programming and free sensory bags, designed to help visitors with sensory needs enjoy exhibits. These bags include ear defenders, sunglasses, fidget toys, and communication cards.

Certified accessible tourist attractions in Ottawa

Several of Ottawa’s top attractions and activities are Rick Hansen Foundation Accessibility Certified, including:

• The Ottawa Art Gallery (OAG), which holds Gold certification, the highest level
• The Canada Science and Technology Museum (Gold certified)
• The Ottawa International Airport (YOW) (Gold certified)

• Whimble, a local platform, provides on-demand personal support services for residents and visitors requiring assistance navigating the city.
• The Ottawa International Airport is Rick Hansen Foundation Gold Certified and participates in the Sunflower Program, which discreetly identifies travelers with hidden disabilities for extra assistance. It also offers an accessible light rail connection to the city.
• Visit the City of Ottawa’s accessibility services page for municipal supports and news.
• Explore interactive maps like AccessNow and WheelMap to find accessible businesses and services.

Getting around Ottawa

Ottawa’s public transit system is designed with accessibility in mind:

• OC Transpo buses and the O-Train network feature low floors, ramps, elevators, and designated spaces for mobility devices
• Para Transpo offers shared-ride, book-in-advance service for riders unable to use conventional transit.
• Ottawa’s train station is the most modern and accessible in the VIA Rail network, with a light rail connection that takes you downtown in just 10 minutes.

Ottawa offers a variety of outdoor experiences with accessibility in mind:

• The Rideau Canal Pathway from Lansdowne to the Dominion Arboretum provides paved, wheelchair-friendly paths and beautiful nature views.
• Ottawa’s city beaches offer wheelchair access during summer months
• Gatineau Park offers nature without barriers. From spring through fall, visitors with reduced mobility can explore scenic trails like Pioneers and Sugarbush, complete with 360-degree views and detailed accessibility info via the NCC’s inclusive trails web app. Take in panoramic views from accessible lookouts, or ride a free, accessible shuttle to popular sites. The Visitor Centre features a fully accessible exhibition, and select beaches are equipped with mats and beach wheelchairs for easy water access. Year-round, the park welcomes adaptive recreation—from summer yurt camping to renting adaptive cross-country ski sledges in winter. With accessible washrooms, parking, and mobility scooter rentals, Gatineau Park makes it easier for everyone to enjoy the great outdoors.

Ottawa’s events and festivals continue to emphasize accessibility and inclusion.

The Access 2 Card program provides free or discounted access to venues across Canada for a support person accompanying a cardholder.

30+ venues are currently participating in Ottawa, including several signature attractions!