Fine-tune your knowledge of Canadian history by touring the capital, and
learning about the contributions made by some of Canada’s best known political
figures. Start the tour at Parliament Hill with costumed interpreters
who will introduce the history of Canadian government past to present.
Names mentioned during the Centre Block tour will be described in detail
throughout the remainder of the itinerary.
At the nearby Canadian War Museum, learn about Lester B. Pearson’s
role in establishing a peacekeeping role for Canadian soldiers.
Pearson won the Nobel Peace prize for this initiative, and forty years
later, Canada continues to be recognized as a leader in peacekeeping
missions. Tour Laurier House, a national heritage site and
former home to two past prime ministers, Sir Wilfrid Laurier, and William
Lyon Mackenzie King. The summer home of Mackenzie
King, now called Mackenzie King Estate, is a wonderful spot to visit
restored cottages, wander through formal gardens and architectural ruins,
and have a meal at the tea room.
In nearby Carp, ON, just 35 km west of downtown Ottawa, discover one
of the capital’s newest attractions. Named after former Prime
Minister Diefenbaker, the “Diefenbunker” was built between 1959-1961
as an underground shelter intended to house the Canadian government
in case of nuclear attack. Fortunately it never was needed for
that purpose, and has now been opened as a museum.
Tributes to these famous Canadians, and others, are made through various
impressive monuments located throughout the capital, and at the Beechwood
Cemetery, where many famous Canadians are buried. Self-guided
tours of the impressive cemetery are now possible.
For more information, contact:
| 1. Beechwood Cemetary Co.: |
1 hr, (613) 741-9530 |
| 2. Canadian War Museum: |
2 hrs, (819) 776-8600 |
| 3. Diefenbunker – Canada’s Cold War Museum: |
2 hrs, (613) 839-0007 |
| 4. Laurier House: |
1 hr, (613) 992-8142 |
| 5. Mackenzie King Estate: |
2 hrs, (819) 827-2020 |
| 6. Parliament Hill: |
1 hr, (613) 996-0896 |
