The Partner's Programme is designed to give participants an opportunity to experience downtown Ottawa - the culture, the historical sights and amenities that we have to offer visitors in our limited time.
Our bus will transport participants from Algonquin College each morning to the first activity. The activities are grouped close together so we will be able to walk from one to the other. The bus will take us back to Algonquin from our last activity at the end of the day. Bring your walking attire and outerwear appropriate for spring weather conditions!
All activity fees are payable in advance on your Registration Form.
| DAY 1: Saturday, May 21 | |
| 0900h | Depart Algonquin College by bus to downtown Ottawa. |
| 0930-1130h | National Art Gallery: Admission is $9.00. Experience some of Canada's art treasures in a self-guided walking tour. |
| 1130-1330h | Walk from the Gallery to the Rideau Centre for a light lunch in the Food Court & some time to go shopping for an hour! |
| 1330-1400h | Walk to Parliament Hill & go through the Security Check in.
Note: The Security Check-in process on Parliament Hill is the same as an airport - Photo ID & no sharp objects, nailfiles or pocket knives allowed. |
| 1400-1530h | Tour of the Centre Block & House of Commons (as long as MP s are not sitting in session). Admission: No Charge |
| 1530-1630 | Walk by the Old Union Station (now Gov't Conference Centre), National Arts Centre and Oscar Peterson in bronze. |
| 1630-1745h | Rideau Canal Boat Cruise: travel a World Heritage Canal - see Ottawa from a new historical perspective. Fee: $14.00 |
| 1745h | Return to Algonquin College by bus for the buffet banquet. |
| DAY 2: Sunday, May 22 | |
| 0900hh | Depart Algonquin College by bus to downtown Ottawa. |
| 0930-1000h | Walk along Sparks Street Mall to the War Memorial. |
| 1000-1100h | Ottawa Sight Seeing Tour: see Ottawa from a double decker bus -the PM's & Governor General's homes, the Ottawa River & Rideau Falls and more! Fee to ride: $26.00 |
| 1100-1330h | Shopping in the Byward Market & a lunch on the patio. |
| 1330-1400h | A 25 minute walk over the Alexandria Bridge to the Museum of Civilization in Gatineau - for hardy walkers! |
| 1400-1600h | Museum of Civilization: Admission is $12.00. Enjoy this renowned Museum and soak up some culture & history in the Grand Hall and the many themed exhibition halls! |
| 1600h | Bus pickup at the Museum & transport to the tulip beds. |
| 1630-1730h | Tour the world famous Commissioner's Park tulip beds for that perfect photo op! It is a walk of colour not to be missed - rain or shine - so dress accordingly for spring! |
| 1730-1800h | Bus returns participants to Algonquin College to relax! |
NOTES:
- The daily bus fees & activities costs must be paid in advance on the Registration Form.
- Remember to bring spring weather appropriate attire - a sunhat, a sweater/jacket, a raincoat and umbrella. Rain or shine - the tours go on, so be prepared!
- Our bus will take participants from Algonquin College to the first activity of each day. We will not have the use of the bus during the day. Each day is a walking tour, so wear good, dry, comfortable footwear.
- For safety, a 6 passenger Caravan will be available to us downtown on an on-call basis for emergency or mobility impaired usage as required.
- Participation in activities may be modified on a personal basis. If you wish to skip an activity & shop, join us at the next location. A daily map of each day tour will be in your Registration package & at the Main Desk.
- For those wishing to leave early or linger downtown, city bus service via OC Transpo from the Rideau Centre back to Algonquin College is a 35 minute ride available on a cash fare basis of $3.25 per adult.