Entrance Bay is a historically significant site located at the confluence of the Rideau Canal and the Ottawa River in downtown Ottawa, Ontario. It marks the northern terminus of the Rideau Canal, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and played a pivotal role in the city’s early development. In the early 19th century, Lieutenant-Colonel John By selected this location as the starting point for the canal’s construction. The area, then known as Entrance Valley, was chosen for its natural topography, which facilitated the building of the canal’s first eight locks and a turning basin. This engineering feat transformed the area into a bustling hub of activity, contributing to the growth of Bytown, which later became Ottawa.
Today, Entrance Bay is adjacent to several notable landmarks, including the Bytown Museum, housed in the city’s oldest stone building, and the historic Parliament Hill. The bay’s rich history and central location make it a significant point of interest for visitors exploring Canada’s capital.
Own or work here?