New visitor centre opens in downtown Ottawa

The new downtown Ottawa visitor centre on Dec. 18, 2024. (Dave Charbonneau/CTV News Ottawa)

A new visitor centre has opened in downtown Ottawa to assist the millions of tourists who flock to Canada's capital every year.

The new tourism hub officially opened this week inside the Central Chambers building at the corner of Elgin Street and Queen Street.

Tourism Ottawa says the visitor centre will bring greater visibility to the city's diverse offerings and provide essential information on events, restaurants and landmarks across the region.

"The opening of this space marks a significant step forward in our community's efforts to rejuvenate and revitalize Ottawa's downtown core," said Michael Crockatt, president and CEO of Ottawa Tourism in a news release.

"By offering a welcoming and informative space for visitors and locals, Ottawa Tourism hopes to encourage longer trips and repeat visits, thereby contributing to the city's vitality and economy.

Canada's capital sees an estimated 9.8 million visitors annually contributing to about $2.9 billion to the local economy, according to Tourism Ottawa.

The opening comes a week before the World Junior Ice Hockey Championship and the Bell Capital Cup are hosted in Ottawa, which are expected to bring eager fans from across the country.

The visitor centre offers in-person, digital and remote assistance by email or phone.

It is open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.