★★★★★ 4.6(3,000 reviews)10.8 km from hotel~18 min drive
The highest court in Canada sits in a striking Art Deco building on Wellington Street, just west of Parliament Hill. Free guided tours reveal the courtrooms where landmark Charter decisions are made, the grand entrance hall, and the rooftop with panoramic views of the Ottawa River and Gatineau hills.
As Canada's capital since 1857, Ottawa is rich with national landmarks and heritage buildings. Supreme Court of Canada is a cornerstone of that heritage, located 10.8 km from Adam's Airport Inn (18 minutes by car).
Photography is welcome at most exterior areas. For the best light, visit in the late afternoon when the limestone and copper rooflines catch the golden hour.
Getting There from Adam’s Airport Inn
18 min
From Adam's Airport Inn, take the Airport Parkway to Highway 417 — it's about 18 minutes by car. Paid street parking.
Why Guests Love This
Few capital-city experiences carry the gravitas of standing inside the courtroom where Canada’s most consequential legal decisions are made. Our guests at Adam’s Airport Inn appreciate the free guided tours that make the institution genuinely accessible—no legal background required. The striking Art Deco architecture and rooftop views of the Ottawa River make this a worthwhile stop even for those with limited time in the city, just 20 minutes from the hotel.
FreeHistory Buffs
Details
Address301 Wellington Street, Ottawa, ON K1A 0J1, Canada
Yes, all guided tours of the Supreme Court are free of charge. Tours run approximately 30 minutes and are offered in both English and French. During the summer season (May through August), tours depart every 30 minutes. Off-season tours are available by appointment—call (613) 995-4330 to arrange.
Can I watch a court hearing?
Yes, when the Court is in session (typically October through June), the public gallery is open on a first-come, first-served basis. Hearings begin at 9:30 AM. Arrive early for high-profile cases, as seating is limited. The Court’s website publishes the hearing schedule in advance.
Is the rooftop accessible to visitors?
The rooftop terrace with panoramic views of the Ottawa River and Gatineau hills is accessible during guided tours in the summer season. It is one of Ottawa’s best-kept viewpoints. Access depends on weather conditions and may be restricted during construction or maintenance periods.
How long should I plan for a visit?
Allow 45 minutes to one hour for the complete experience: the guided tour takes approximately 30 minutes, with additional time to explore the grand entrance hall, read about landmark cases in the exhibition area, and take in the rooftop views. Photography is permitted in most areas.
How do I get to Supreme Court of Canada from Ottawa Airport?
The Supreme Court at 301 Wellington Street is approximately 20 minutes by car from Ottawa Airport. From Adam’s Airport Inn (7 minutes from the terminal), take the Airport Parkway north to Wellington Street. Limited street parking is available along Wellington, or use the Supreme Court’s small visitor lot accessible from the rear entrance on the river side.
Staying in Ottawa?
Adam’s Airport Inn is just 18 minutes from Supreme Court of Canada. Complimentary breakfast and up to 14 days of free parking included with every stay.