Steeped in history, the Fairmont Chateau Laurier is an iconic place to stay in downtown Ottawa. Perched above the Ottawa River and next to the Rideau Canal lockstation, the views from the hotel are incredible. The hotel resembles a French castle complete with turrets. Only steps from Parliament Hill, the location cannot be beat for families looking to experience the downtown vibe of this vibrant city.

Families can opt for one of 426 rooms that include entry-level rooms with two double beds, or splurge on an upgraded stay on the Fairmont Gold Floor. The Gold Floor experience includes a separate check-in area and access to the private lounge. Guests of the Gold Floor are invited to enjoy drinks and snacks, as well as a hot continental breakfast throughout their stay.

The location is only a short walk to historic sites and museums, restaurants, a large shopping center and the historic ByWard market.

All rooms are outfitted with luxury robes for both adults and kids. There is a small fridge containing snacks and drinks. The fridge uses sensor technology so you are not able to remove or add anything to it without cost. You can request a separate fridge and microwave for an additional cost of $25 each for the length of your stay. A Keurig coffeemaker, with complimentary coffee and tea, is provided in each room.

Complimentary cribs and rollaway cots are also available for families. Connecting rooms are available upon request depending on availability. Call the front desk at booking to request a connecting room.

Fairmont Room
This room has one king, one queen or two double beds, and either a city, inner courtyard or Major's Hill Park view. A room with two double beds sleeps a maximum of four people. A room with a king or queen bed with a cot or crib sleeps a maximum of two adults and one child.

Fairmont Room With A View
This one is identical to the Fairmont Room with a view of the Parliament Buildings and the Rideau Canal.

Deluxe Room
This room has one king, one queen or two double beds and either a Parliament Hill and Rideau Canal view or a city, inner courtyard or Major's Hill Park view depending on availability. The room is larger than the Fairmont Room and sleeps a maximum of four people.

Pool
After a long day of exploring, you'll meet up with other families who congregate at the indoor hotel pool. The saltwater pool is 60 feet long and free of harsh chemicals, making it easier to relax for longer. Be warned; the pool is quite deep, with the shallowest end being almost 4 feet deep and the deep end being 9 feet deep. The hotel does provide a few pool noodles, but families with children under 8 or weak swimmers should be prepared with life jackets and other swimming aids. The pool is open daily from 6 a.m. until 10 p.m.

Wilfrid's Restaurant
Located just off the main lobby, guests and locals alike flock to Wilfrid's Restaurant for meals, particularly Sunday brunch. With a smart casual dress code, the family-friendly restaurant offers Canadian selections, as well as a kids' menu for breakfast, lunch and dinner. While more adventurous families may dig into the delicious venison and roasted duck breast dishes, the kids' all-day menu offers classics like chicken fingers and mac and cheese.
Wilfrid's is open daily for breakfast and lunch. Dinner is offered Monday through Saturday, but there is no dinner service on Sunday nights.

In-Room Dining
Room service at the Fairmont offers popular items and the same kids' menu as Wilfrid's, along with some very tasty desserts. Breakfast, lunch and dinner are available. There is also a lighter red-eye menu for families looking for snacks or food between 11 p.m. and 6 a.m. There is a $4 delivery fee per order.

All About the Extras
Wi-Fi
Wi-Fi is $15.75 per day. You can avoid this fee by signing up for the chain's free rewards program.

Fitness Center
There is a 24-hour fitness center onsite with a private personal training room and two registered massage therapy treatment rooms. Towel and lock services are included for all registered guests.

Pet Policy
Cats and dogs that weigh less than 20 pounds are welcome with an additional fee of 25 CAD per day, per pet. No pets may be left alone in guestrooms. Pets much be leashed at all times and are not allowed in the restaurants or lounges. Service dogs can stay complimentary.

Check-In/Check-Out
Guests are welcome to check-in at 3 p.m. and must check out by noon.

Parking
Indoor valet parking is available for 43 CAD per day with unlimited access to the vehicle. Indoor self parking is available for 30 CAD per days with full in and out privileges.

The Art of Smart Timing
The hotel is busy year-round welcoming guests for business and leisure travel. For lower rates, try to avoid downtown festivals, which include the annual Winterlude Festival in February and the annual Tulip Festival in May, as well as the months of July and August when Canadian children are not in school.

Getting There
The nearest airport is the Ottawa Macdonald-Cartier Airport (YOW). The hotel is easy to reach from the airport. When leaving the airport, simply follow the Airport Parkway which becomes Bronson Ave. Once you reach the Rideau Canal, turn right onto Colonel By Drive. Continue on Colonel By Drive until you reach Rideau Street. You will see spot the hotel immediately. Turn left onto Rideau Street. The entrance to the Fairmont Chateau Laurier is then immediately on the right.

Getting Around
Once in Ottawa, you will likely find that most attractions are within walking distance of the hotel. The Ottawa Transit system will help you to reach further destinations with small children. Plus, children 5 and under ride free! Family passes are also available. Several bus stops are available within a short walk of the hotel.