Fairmont Chateau Laurier
Ottawa, Canada
1 Rideau Street, Ottawa, Canada, K1N 8S7
Original Property Opened in 1912
Historic Hotels Worldwide member since 2018
As one of Canada’s most recognizable landmarks, Fairmont Château Laurier offers an experience few can rival. Stationed in the center of downtown Ottawa, this recently renovated hotel was built to resemble a Renaissance-era French château. Though located in Canada, the mastermind behind the hotel’s inception was an American named Charles Melville Hays. Unfortunately, Hays perished in the sinking of the Titanic just weeks before his dream hotel opened in June 1912. Explore the rich community where the Fairmont Château Laurier calls home. Ottawa has various festivals, enlightening city tours, exciting winter sports, and a world-renowned orchestra. Located in the center of downtown Ottawa, Fairmont Château Laurier is just minutes away from exciting attractions and activities. Guests can explore the best that Ottawa has to offer, from the historic Rideau Canal that cuts through the city to museums such as the Canadian Museum of History and the National Gallery. As the capital of Canada, Ottawa is also an excellent location for business meetings and professional conferences, as well as romantic weddings and getaways.
Discover
- Discover the spectacular accommodations at the Fairmont Château Laurier. This magnificent historic hotel has been particularly popular among various heads of state, including Herbert Hoover, Winston Churchill, and Nelson Mandela. Members of the British monarchy have even stayed here, such as King George VI and Queen Elizabeth II.
- Admire the gorgeous historic architecture of this extraordinary holiday destination. Designed by the architectural firm Ross & MacFarlane, the Fairmont Château Laurier was constructed in 1912 to resemble a gorgeous chateau from the French Renaissance. It is now a National Historic Site of Canada.
- Marvel at the majesty of the Fairmont Château Laurier’s eloquent ballroom. An original part of the hotel, this remarkable space features beautiful Renaissance-style architecture, as well as three brilliant crystal chandeliers. Many noteworthy guests have graced the ballroom over the years, including Queen Elizabeth II and Princess Diana.
Explore
- Explore the Rideau Canal National Historic Site several blocks away. A designated UNESCO World Heritage Site, this remarkable destination was once a 19th-century shipping canal and defensive barrier. The Rideau Canal National Historic Site today features a series of tranquil pathways to enjoy.
- Visit Parliament Hill on the other side of the Rideau Canal. This spectacular location is home to the Parliament of Canada, as well as a number of fascinating sculptures and monuments. The National War Memorial nearby is also a fantastic place to see.
- Travel to the Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica nearby. Constructed during the first half of the 19th century, this magnificent historical church features an amazing blend of Neoclassical and Gothic Revival-style architecture. The Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica is now a National Historic Site of Canada.
Experience
- Experience the National Gallery of Canada. Established during the 1880s, this impressive cultural institution contains a remarkable collection of over 65,000 pieces of art from around the world. Among the artists who have their work on display here include Andy Warhol and Francesco Salviati.
- Stroll through the Canadian Museum of Nature. Housed within a brilliant Scottish Baronial-style building, this terrific museum features many fossils and dioramas that chronicle Canada’s fascinating natural history.
- Tour the Canadian Museum of History across the river in neighboring Gatineau. This stunning museum is dedicated to commemorating the rich history of Canada from the earliest Native Americans straight through to the present.
Taste
- Taste the many local foods for sale at the famous ByWard Market. Visitors will find a wealth of outstanding market stalls and specialty food shops, which offer anything ranging from artisan cheeses to delectable handmade candies.
- Savor a classic dessert known as a beavertail. This beloved local treat is a delicious deep-fried pastry made from wheat dough, and is served with a variety of sweet toppings. No trip to Ottawa is ever complete without tasting a beavertail.
- Enjoy some shawarma when out exploring the city. Ottawa is celebrated throughout Canada today as being the country’s most premier destination for this lovely Middle Eastern dish. Come try shawarma at such places like Shawarma Palace.
FEATURED ACCOMMODATIONS
Featured Offers
Book the Best Available Rate at this property on HistoricHotelsWorldwide.com and receive a complimentary one-year family membership (a $30 value) to the National Trust for Historic Preservation in the United States, a member of the International National Trusts Organization.
