Confederation Park
Ottawa's historic urban park with monuments, fountains, and views of the Rideau Canal. A hub for festivals and quiet reflection.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds
Confederation Park
Best Time
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Ottawa's historic urban park with monuments, fountains, and views of the Rideau Canal. A hub for festivals and quiet reflection.
"A nice pretty park in the middle of the city, great benches where we may or may not have napped like hobos."
🧺 Perfect Picnic Spot
Bring a blanket and enjoy a picnic with views of the canal. Grab a bite at the NCC Bistro if you prefer.
🚶♀️ Stroll Towards the Canal
The open space leading to the Rideau Canal offers great perspectives and photo opportunities.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Monuments & Memorials
Discover tributes to Canadian history, including a monument honoring animals in battle and those dedicated to aboriginal- and Polish-Canadians.
Fountain & Open Space
Enjoy the beautiful water fountain and the expansive views towards the Rideau Canal, ideal for relaxation and photos.
Seasonal Art Installations
Keep an eye out for temporary art pieces that add a unique cultural flair to the park's landscape.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Ottawa's Urban Oasis
Event Hub & Relax Spot
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🧺 Perfect Picnic Spot
Bring a blanket and enjoy a picnic with views of the canal. Grab a bite at the NCC Bistro if you prefer.
🚶♀️ Stroll Towards the Canal
The open space leading to the Rideau Canal offers great perspectives and photo opportunities.
📅 Check Event Schedules
The park hosts festivals and events; check local listings to catch live music or cultural celebrations.
🌳 Shade on Hot Days
Plenty of trees provide welcome shade during warmer months, perfect for a break.
Tips
from all over the internet
🧺 Perfect Picnic Spot
Bring a blanket and enjoy a picnic with views of the canal. Grab a bite at the NCC Bistro if you prefer.
🚶♀️ Stroll Towards the Canal
The open space leading to the Rideau Canal offers great perspectives and photo opportunities.
📅 Check Event Schedules
The park hosts festivals and events; check local listings to catch live music or cultural celebrations.
🌳 Shade on Hot Days
Plenty of trees provide welcome shade during warmer months, perfect for a break.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Confederation Park is a well-loved urban green space in Ottawa, praised for its central location, historical monuments, and relaxing atmosphere by the fountain and Rideau Canal. Visitors appreciate it as a great spot for picnics and a peaceful escape from the city bustle, though its role as a venue for events and protests can sometimes impact the experience.
"Nice and clean park to walk around. You can sit and relax on one of the benches or by the fountain. Good place for a picnic. You can get something to eat or drink at the NCC Bistro located in the park."
Zach Benedicto
"One of the tourist parks in the heart of Ottawa. As the name suggests it it is dedicated to the creation of the Canadian confederacy. This recreative outdoor facility is well liked by tourists and locals alike. It has a number of interesting monuments including one dedicated to the animals used in battles. The best part is the open space towards the Rideau canal."
Petre Diaz
"Nice pretty park in the middle of the city, great benches where we may or may not have napped like hobos while waiting for our ridiculous 4pm check-in time at the Sonder Hotel."
Rob Bailey
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Confederation Park is centrally located in downtown Ottawa, making it easily accessible by public transit, walking, or cycling. Several OC Transpo bus routes stop nearby. If driving, be aware that parking in the downtown core can be limited and costly.
Yes, Confederation Park is a short walk from Parliament Hill, making it a convenient stop when exploring Ottawa's downtown attractions.
Absolutely! Ottawa has a great network of cycling paths, including those along the Rideau Canal, which provide scenic routes to the park.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Confederation Park is a public urban green space and is free to enter and enjoy year-round.
As an outdoor public park, Confederation Park is generally accessible from early morning until late evening. Specific hours may vary for any facilities within the park.
Entry to the park itself is free. However, if specific festivals or ticketed events are being held within the park, you may need to purchase tickets for those individual events.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Confederation Park features several monuments, a beautiful fountain, open green spaces, and often temporary art installations. It's a great spot for a leisurely walk, a picnic, or simply relaxing. +1
There is an NCC Bistro located within the park for food and drink options. Restroom availability can vary, especially outside of event times.
Yes, the park offers lovely opportunities for photography, especially with its monuments, fountain, and views towards the Rideau Canal. The seasonal colors in spring and fall also add to its charm. 
Confederation Park is an excellent location for picnics. There are benches available, and ample open space to spread out a blanket.
Confederation Park frequently hosts festivals, national events, and sometimes protests or gatherings. It's advisable to check local event listings for what might be happening during your visit.
📸 📸 Photography
The fountain area, the various monuments (especially the one honoring animals), and the open vistas towards the Rideau Canal are prime spots for photography. +1
Yes, Confederation Park is beautiful in the fall, with trees displaying vibrant autumn colors, making it a great location for seasonal photography.
Generally, yes, for personal use. However, if you are planning professional photography or media coverage of events, it's best to check the specific event's regulations or contact park authorities.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶♀️ Budget Travelers
📸 Photographers
+2 Keep an eye out for temporary art installations, which can provide unique photographic opportunities. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Confederation Park: A Hub of History and Community
Beyond its historical significance, Confederation Park is a dynamic venue for festivals and national events. Its open spaces and central location make it an ideal setting for public gatherings, concerts, and cultural celebrations. Visitors might stumble upon anything from K-Pop festivals to jazz performances, adding an element of surprise and local flavor to their visit.
Whether you're seeking a quiet moment by the fountain, a place for a picnic, or a chance to experience a local event, Confederation Park offers a multifaceted urban retreat. Its blend of historical reflection, community engagement, and natural beauty makes it a memorable destination in the heart of the capital. The presence of temporary art installations further adds to its evolving character, ensuring there's always something new to discover.
Navigating Confederation Park: Tips from Visitors
Some visitors have noted its use for protests and marches, which can impact the atmosphere and accessibility on certain days. For instance, a TikTok video showed a protest gathering and marching to Parliament Hill from the park.
For those looking for a quick bite or drink, the NCC Bistro located within the park is a convenient option.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit