Children'S Hospital Of Eastern Ontario

Children’s Hospital of Eastern Ontario (CHEO): Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Essential Visitor Information in Ottawa

Date: 15/06/2025

Introduction: CHEO’s Significance and Visitor Overview

The Children’s Hospital of Eastern Ontario (CHEO) is a leading pediatric healthcare institution located in Ottawa, Ontario. Since its establishment in 1974, CHEO has provided specialized medical care to children and youth across eastern and northern Ontario, western Quebec, and Nunavut. Renowned for its advanced clinical services, research innovations, and family-centered philosophy, CHEO is a cornerstone of child health and wellbeing in the region.

This comprehensive guide offers detailed information for visitors—including families, healthcare professionals, and community supporters—about CHEO’s visiting hours, accessibility, transportation, parking, and the hospital’s specialized programs. You’ll also find practical travel tips, nearby Ottawa attractions, and guidance on participating in community events and fundraising initiatives. For the latest updates on visitor policies and special events, refer to the official CHEO website and the CHEO Foundation events page.

About CHEO: Pediatric Healthcare Leader
CHEO Visiting Hours and Ticket Information
Travel, Parking, and Accessibility Tips
Nearby Ottawa Attractions
Special Events and Community Engagement
Photographic Opportunities and Visual Media
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
CHEO’s Services and Community Impact
Call to Action
References

About CHEO: Pediatric Healthcare Leader

CHEO is both a prominent healthcare provider and a vital community hub in Ottawa. With a mission focused on specialized pediatric care, research, and education, the hospital supports children and families throughout a vast region. CHEO’s commitment to accessibility, inclusivity, and innovation underpins its reputation as a trusted regional resource.

CHEO Visiting Hours and Ticket Information

General Visiting Hours:

10:00 AM to 8:00 PM daily.
Parents and primary caregivers: Welcome 24/7, with exceptions for special circumstances.
Siblings and extended family: May have restricted access, especially during heightened infection control periods.

Admission to CHEO is always free for patients and their families. Public tours and open house events—often coinciding with significant milestones—may require advance registration or tickets. For the latest policies, consult the CHEO Visitor Policy.

Travel, Parking, and Accessibility Tips

Location: CHEO is centrally situated in Ottawa, accessible by public transit, car, and taxi.

Parking:

On-site parking is available, with fees supporting hospital infrastructure.
Accessible parking spots are reserved near entrances for patients and families with disabilities.

Accessibility:

The facility is fully wheelchair accessible, with elevators, ramps, and adapted washrooms throughout.
Communication aids and multilingual resources are available.
Contact CHEO in advance for specialized accommodations (CHEO Accessibility).

Nearby Ottawa Attractions

Families and visitors can enjoy several nearby Ottawa landmarks:

ByWard Market: Vibrant shopping and dining district.
Parliament Hill: Iconic Canadian government site.
Rideau Canal: UNESCO World Heritage site for walks, bike rides, and boat tours.
Ottawa Art Gallery: Features regional and national art exhibitions.

These destinations provide relaxation and entertainment options for those accompanying patients or attending CHEO events.

Special Events and Community Engagement

CHEO hosts a variety of events throughout the year, from fundraising galas like Maddy’s Gala to educational health fairs and seminars. Public tours are occasionally available during open houses or special celebrations. For event details and registration, visit the CHEO Foundation Events page.

Photographic Opportunities and Visual Media

Patient privacy is paramount within CHEO, but visitors can photograph the hospital’s exterior, gardens, and informational displays during public events. Virtual tours and photo galleries are accessible via the official CHEO website, offering digital insights into the hospital’s environment and facilities.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are CHEO’s current visiting hours?
A: General visiting hours are 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM; parents/caregivers may visit 24/7.

Q: Is admission to CHEO free?
A: Yes, for patients and their families. Special events may require ticket registration.

Q: Are public tours available?
A: Occasionally, during special events. Check the CHEO Foundation website for updates.

Q: Is CHEO wheelchair accessible?
A: Yes, with comprehensive accommodations and supports.

Q: Where can I park at CHEO?
A: On-site parking (fees apply) with accessible spots near hospital entrances.

Q: What COVID-19 or viral season protocols are in place?
A: Masking, hand hygiene, visitor limits, and vaccination proof may be required during high-risk periods (CHEO Safety Measures).

CHEO’s Services and Community Impact

Historical Roots and Growth

CHEO was founded in 1974 and has since become a pillar of pediatric healthcare for the region, evolving to meet growing community needs (CTV News).

Pediatric Services and Research

CHEO provides a comprehensive range of services, including emergency care, surgery, specialty clinics, mental health support, and advanced diagnostic technologies.
Notable innovations include virtual reality-assisted MRI scans and expanded day surgery programs, made possible by significant government funding (CHEO Programs).

The CHEO Research Institute drives pediatric research, working with families and the University of Ottawa to improve child health outcomes.

Community Support and Volunteerism

Community involvement is essential to CHEO’s mission. Volunteers contribute to patient care and fundraising, while events like Maddy’s Gala provide critical support for programs such as the Roger Neilson Children’s Hospice.

CHEO is a major employer in Ottawa and plays a vital role in the regional economy, while its educational and research programs enhance the city’s reputation for medical innovation.

Call to Action

For the most up-to-date information on visiting hours, policies, and events, consult CHEO’s official site. Plan your visit, participate in community initiatives, and consider supporting CHEO through volunteering or donations. Stay connected by following CHEO and the CHEO Foundation on social media, and download the Audiala app for appointment reminders, event updates, and health resources.

Summary: Key Tips for Visiting CHEO

Check visiting hours and policies before your visit.
Use public transit or plan for parking fees at the hospital.
Explore nearby Ottawa attractions while supporting a family member or attending events.
Stay informed about infection prevention protocols during viral seasons.
Leverage CHEO’s accessibility resources and contact the hospital in advance for special accommodations.
Engage with community events and fundraising initiatives to support CHEO’s mission.

By preparing ahead and accessing available resources, your visit to CHEO can be positive, informed, and supportive of both the hospital’s mission and the families it serves. For further details, visit the CHEO Foundation and Ottawa Tourism websites.