What to know before you go

For walking tours, you're advised to check the weather, and dress accordingly.  Have a hat if sun, rain, or cold.  Lace up some walkable shoes.  If high UV, wear sunscreen.  Bring a bottle of water.  Consider whether a jacket or coat is in order.

The usual meeting spot in between the Chateau Laurier hotel and the Rideau Canal where Wellington Street turns into Rideau Street, near Elgin Street.  Tickets can be purchased here.

Small tours can coordinate special meeting spots before hand; the guide will reach out to you, typically the day before.

Ottawa's warm-summer humid continental climate is hot and sticky in the middle of summer and cold and snowy in the middle of the winter.  Summer high temperatures are 27 degrees Celsius, or 80 degrees Fahrenheit.  In the winter, temperatures often dip below -20 degrees Celsius, or -4 degrees Fahrenheit.  The city gets 772mm of annual rainfall, and snow typically covers the ground all winter long.  Ottawa is the seventh coldest capital city in the world.

Check the local weather:  The Weather Network | Weather Underground | Environment Canada

Tipping your guide is optional, and at your discretion.  Local tipping culture is generally 15-25 percent for services.  You can tip electronically here.