They’re the 21st-century versions of a brochure.
The National Capital Commission has introduced new smartphone features designed to help tourists discover Ottawa/Gatineau during their visit.
Black-and-white QR codes, the barcode-like boxes previously seen on ads and posters, are now on various sites and monuments waiting to be scanned.
“I could have used it today,” said one tourist.
Once your phone reads the code, information and an audio clip will be downloaded.
There’s also an app that offers GPS tours around Parliament Hill, which is likely the biggest tourist attraction according to one tour guide.
“Our first stop is Parliament Hill, that’s most important,” said Conrad LaPlante during one of his old-fashioned tours.
That “Capital Tours” app offers 26 stops and lets you choose your own route on your own time.
The NCC says more tour locations are coming.
With a report from CTV Ottawa’s Natalie Duddridge
