The Rideau Canal is North America’s best-preserved “slackwater” canal, and the only one from the great 19th century canal-building era that still operates along its original route with most of its original structures intact. Today, Parks Canada welcomes visitors to this UNESCO World Heritage Site to experience travel along an iconic route. Pleasure boaters and paddlers fill the locks, while other visitors come by land to marvel at the historic locks in action., and the only one from the great 19th century canal-building era that still operates along its original route with most of its original structures intact. Today, Parks Canada welcomes visitors to this UNESCO World Heritage Site to experience travel along an iconic route. Pleasure boaters and paddlers fill the locks, while other visitors come by land to marvel at the historic locks in action.
The Rideau Canal offers a unique opportunity to experience the great outdoors while learning about a fascinating chapter in the story of Canada. Travel by boat or launch your canoe or kayak and unlock this iconic route’s many charming secrets. Drive to any of the locks for an afternoon exploring the site and watching the boats go through, or create the ultimate historic experience with an overnight stay in a truly unique setting.
Stay in a restored lockmaster’s house or canalman’s cottage and experience a holiday you’ll never forget. Parks Canada brings these vintage homes to life with exceptional detail and thoughtful renovations, giving you a chance to experience the Rideau Canal as it was in the 1800s. Each accommodation has its own unique charm, and carefully combines original construction with modern amenities. Enjoy a rare opportunity to live like a lockmaster on a UNESCO World Heritage site.
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