Embassy of the United States of America

These super touchy Americans are etremely inhospitable. Was very cold and windy out and they wouldn't even let us in the building to keep warm while we asked some questions. Had to talk to the security officer in the cold outside. What's the bloody point of having a "visitors" door when you don't even let visitors in? Waste of time and gas going here. I'd advise to call instead.

The US Embassy in Ottawa takes up two city blocks. Buster expected to be greeted by the ambassador himself, instead we were not allowed even though the front door. Blame in on 9/11. But as an American at least I was able to check it off my bucket List.

What? My tax dollars went into this monstrosity and I can't even go inside? We got turned away at the front by a security guard who said it was mostly offices... alright then, why can't I go inside? The kitchen store across the street has three entrances that you can use and the embassy doesn't even have one. Next time I'll say I lost my passport and magically find it 10 minutes later. 10/10 would not recommend.

You mean Embassies aren't just old crack houses, old mansions or the takeover of some other older building? I'm an embassy visiting baby as I've only been to a little over a dozen or so but this place is amazing.

I won a lottery to get a tour of the US Embassy. I'm not sure if I'm supposed to be reviewing the place or not lol but if you get a chance to get a tour of this place you absolutely should!!!

The tour was fun, the tour guide and everyone we met were extremely nice and friendly. The building inside is gorgeous art deco and extremely bright. When I walked in I thought of the hotel at the end of the last James Bond movie, Quantum of Solace. I won't go into to many details but you should definitely check it out if you have a chance!

I hardly ever leave reviews, but I thought this would help a lot of people coming to the Embassy to pay their fees.

If you pay your fees with Canadian Dollars (Cash), you better have EXACT change. They do not have change at the Embassy. Do your calculations beforehand and have EXACT change to the penny.

If you do not do that, they will make you leave the line, leave the Embassy and try to find a bank or open business to get your change.
Mind you, a lot of business are not happy to provide change and WILL turn you away. Also, not a lot of businesses are open before 9:00am so if your appointment is at 8:00am, you're out of luck.

Good luck everyone.

They don't allow several items, including cellphones, so you will need to find a place to store those items. Most business around will sanction employees for helping anyone in this situation, which leaves two options as far as I know: the guest service at Centre Rideau (opening at 9:30am) and the Goodlife Fitness centre (opening at before 8:00 but requiring a 15$ day membership). Given that parameter, it's better to come in advance on the premises.