Visit us

Public Tours Open during Rideau Hall Façade Rehabilitation Work

This summer the front façade of Rideau Hall, the official home and workplace of Canada's Governor General, will be under construction. This construction work will ensure the long term preservation of this unique and important architectural feature of Rideau Hall, one of Canada's most significant historical buildings.

The work will be conducted by The National Capital Commission, the custodian of Rideau Hall. The rehabilitation works are expected to be completed in nine months and the Office of the Secretary of Governor General and the National Capital Commission have worked to ensure that the impact is minimal on the activities of the Governor General, official events, staff and the visiting public.

The front façade of Rideau Hall, the Mappin Wing (1914), is almost 100 years old. It creates the characteristic view of Rideau Hall familiar to most Canadians today and is an important defining element of this heritage building.

Rideau Hall will remain open to the public throughout this construction period. However, the Ballroom will be closed temporarly to visitors until the fall only. All other State Rooms will be available for viewing during regular tour hours.

Hours for public tours of the Residence 2006: (view in PDF format)

• July 1 to September 4: Daily, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. (self-guided tours) and from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. (guided tours).
• September 9 to October 29: Saturdays and Sundays from 12 noon to 4 p.m.
  
  At all other times, by reservation only.

The grounds of Rideau Hall are open daily from 8 am to one hour before sunset.

Note: Rideau Hall is a working residence and official events may require unforeseen changes to your visit.