Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tunnel open? 

Do you have any social media accounts I can follow?

Absolutely.  We have a FACEBOOK account as well as a new INSTAGRAM account! Please follow us on both to ensure you are in the know with special events and the latest pics!  During our open seasons, we even have a weekly contest where we display some of the best pictures sent in by YOU, our visitors. 

NO.  There is no need to book a start time during our open season as we are open 9am-9pm daily with very few exceptions that are posted on our FACEBOOK page.  If the tunnel appears to be busy at the time of your visit, please wait for people to exit before entering to ensure physical distancing is possible. 

What times are you open?

During our regular operating season from spring to fall, we are open 7 days a week, including statutory holidays, from 9 am - 9 pm.  Please check our FACEBOOK account for any special closings due to private rentals. From 8:50 pm until the tunnel doors are locked, there is no programed music and only white lights on.  The tunnel is typically open until Mid October.

How much does it cost to visit the tunnel?

There is no charge for admission to the tunnel, however, there are ongoing costs to run it, such as hydro and maintenance. We welcome any and all donations in one of the RED DONATION BINS at either end of the tunnel, OR you can donate on line HERE.  Donors giving $15 or more on line will receive an official donation receipt for tax purposes. The City of Brockville's Canada Revenue Agency charitable registration number is R106983968.

Where are you located?

We are located in beautiful downtown Brockville, right at the waterfront.  Click HERE for directions. 

How long does it take to walk the tunnel?

We say that is takes 20-30 minutes minimum depending upon how much time you take to read the information boards and observe the different methods of architecture used to build the tunnel.  The light and sound program itself is 90 minutes in length, so you could visit several times and still not see the whole program! 

Can I bring my dog into the tunnel?

We welcome dogs which are under control by their person on a short leash.  Please make sure to bring some pick-up bags as you MUST remove all waste from your pet.  

Is the tunnel wheelchair accessible?

Absolutely.  While it has a very minimal 1% grade sloping down from the north towards the waterfront, it is easily accessible to wheelchairs and walkers.  However, we recommend entering from the south entrance as there is a hill outside the north end to get to the dirt parking lot there.  This hill on the north end is paved and meets ADA standards for accessibility.  

What should I wear when I visit?

Groundwater will always be dripping down the walls and from above in some places.      The walking surface WILL BE WET AND SLIPPERY in some sections.  Please wear proper footwear for traction (sandals are NOT recommended) .  Consider wearing a hat, jacket, or rain poncho. Face coverings/masks are not mandatory but recommended. 

Where can I park to visit the tunnel?

There are several municipal lots located close to the the southern tunnel entrance, plus we have a free dirt parking lot by the north entrance.  The GPS address for our north lot is 8 Brock Street. Please see the CITY MAP for a complete list of municipal lots. 

Are there restrooms at the tunnel?

There are no restrooms located at the tunnel facilities, however, there are public restrooms located just south-west (Blockhouse Island) and north (City hall) of the southern entrance to the tunnel.  See map below:

Does the tunnel close due to weather such as strong rain or wind?

No, unless there are extreme weather warnings the tunnel will remain open during our regular operating hours. 

Why didn't you start repairs in 2023?

The City of Brockville budget is approved in the early months every year. We were waiting on budget approval to get started.
 
Why did the lights break?

Due to the Tunnel being an extremely damp environment, our lights need regular maintenance to shine brightly.
 
What about the music? It's the worst!

Stay tuned for a new and revamped light and sound show this year!
 

How do I rent the tunnel for a private event?

Please contact the City's Parks and Events Department 613-342-8772 x 3266.