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Remic Rapids Park

4.7
·1k reviews·Ottawa, Canada

Remic Rapids Park: A riverside haven featuring gravity-defying rock sculptures and serene Ottawa River vistas.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Spring mornings

See sculptures being built

CrowdLow
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Remic Rapids Park - Image 1

Remic Rapids Park

Best Time

Spring mornings

See sculptures being built

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Remic Rapids Park: A riverside haven featuring gravity-defying rock sculptures and serene Ottawa River vistas.

4.7
(1k reviews)

"Stunning views and unique art make this a must-visit Ottawa gem."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Rock Skipping Fun

Remic Rapids offers an endless supply of flat stones perfect for skipping rocks! :rock:

📸 Capture the Art

The balanced rock sculptures are a unique photo opportunity. Visit in spring to see them being built! :camerawithflash:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Balanced Rock Sculptures

Balanced Rock Sculptures

Along the Ottawa River shoreline

Intricate, gravity-defying rock formations by artist John Felice Ceprano, rebuilt annually.

Ottawa River Views

Ottawa River Views

Shoreline

Panoramic vistas of the Ottawa River, Gatineau shoreline, and the city skyline.

Nature & Wildlife

Nature & Wildlife

Park grounds and riverbanks

Enjoy a stroll or bike ride, spot Canada Geese, and connect with nature near the city.

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Sculptures & Scenery

Remic Rapids Park is famous for its unique balanced rock sculptures by artist John Felice Ceprano, which are rebuilt annually. It offers stunning views of the Ottawa River and the Gatineau shoreline, making it a peaceful escape close to the city.

Best Time for Rock Art

The rock sculptures are typically rebuilt each spring after the ice melts. Visiting during warmer months allows you to see the latest creations and enjoy the park's natural beauty, though it can get busy.

Best Times

When
Spring mornings
Why
See sculptures being built
Crowd
Low
When
Summer evenings
Why
Golden hour for photos
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekdays
Why
Fewer crowds, peaceful strolls
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

The top 10 places I visited in Ottawa in 2024 ✨ Were counting down the videos that you guys liked to most to share some must visit spots. Here’s part 1, don’t forget to save this so you don’t miss out 🫶🏻 #thingstodoinottawa #ottawa #ottawalife #ottawatourism #ottawafoodies
@elsermoira
15.1K likes • 286.7K views

🎯 Rock Skipping Fun

Remic Rapids offers an endless supply of flat stones perfect for skipping rocks! :rock: Reddit

📸 Capture the Art

The balanced rock sculptures are a unique photo opportunity. Visit in spring to see them being built! :camerawithflash: Instagram

The cutest town outside of Ottawa Send this to your weekend exploring buddy! Drive Time 🚘 ➜Orleans (1hr) ➜Downtown ( 50mins) ➜Barrhaven (35ish mins) ➜Kanata (45ish mins) Take the back roads, roll ur windows down, listen to music, chillllll ✨THINGS TO DO✨ (Any * items I have not personally done) Coffee ✧ The Village Bean Treats 🥐 ✧Voilets on Main* ✧ Downtowne Ice Cream Shoppe* ✧ Stella Luna Gel...
@gon.exploring
8.8K likes • 170.3K views
Remic Rapids Park is situated on the shore of the Ottawa River, about four kilometres from Parliament Hill. To enhance the park’s beauty, artist John Felice Ceprano has created balanced rock sculptures on the river’s edge since 1986. The artist uses fossilized and colourful rocks found on the shore to build these sculptures by hand. They provide a free and exploratory public art experience that c...
explore_canada_adventure
35 likes • 699 views

🚶‍♀️ Scenic Strolls

Enjoy leisurely walks or bike rides along the river with beautiful city and nature views. :athletic_shoe: Instagram

☕ Bistro Bites

Grab a bite or a drink at the NCC Bistro, perfectly situated for enjoying the views. :coffee: Instagram

تخيل حجار متوازنة بدون أي غراء أو دعم… بس بإيد الإنسان، وبقوة التركيز والصبر! Remic Rapids Park في أوتاوا مش بس مكان طبيعي، هو معرض فني مفتوح، كل حجر فيه بيحكي عن التوازن، الثبات، والمحاولة. إذا مريت من هون… خذ لحظة وجرّب توازن حجر، يمكن تلاقي جواتك هدوء ما كنت تعرفه. 🪨🌊 . . . . #RemicRapids #Ottawa #RockBalancing #ركن_كندا #علي_في_كندا #اوتاوا_بالعربي #فن_الطبيعة #هدوء_نفسي #توازن_الحجارة #Explor...
rukuncanada
66 likes • 2.8K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Rock Skipping Fun

Remic Rapids offers an endless supply of flat stones perfect for skipping rocks! :rock: Reddit

📸 Capture the Art

The balanced rock sculptures are a unique photo opportunity. Visit in spring to see them being built! :camerawithflash: Instagram

🚶‍♀️ Scenic Strolls

Enjoy leisurely walks or bike rides along the river with beautiful city and nature views. :athletic_shoe: Instagram

☕ Bistro Bites

Grab a bite or a drink at the NCC Bistro, perfectly situated for enjoying the views. :coffee: Instagram

☀️ Sunset Views

Catch magical sunsets over the Ottawa River for a truly memorable experience. :city_sunset: Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.7
(1k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about Remic Rapids Park for its unique balanced rock sculptures and stunning Ottawa River views. It's praised as a peaceful escape from the city, offering a blend of natural beauty and artistic intrigue. While it can get busy, the scenic trails and the opportunity to connect with nature make it a worthwhile destination.

"Beautiful views of Gatineau and Ottawa downtown skyline. The water is shallow around the banks and clear, it was refreshing to dip on my feet and feel the coolness. Pretty busy trail with cyclists, hikers and joggers alike but the views makes it worthwhile."

Peace Lolu

"Nice area to wander around. The rock sculptures were really cool. On the day I was passing through, there was a big storm, and I saw rare asperitas clouds there!"

katie

"Beautiful location and escape from the crtt busy parkway. How lovely to sit & enjoy the weather, water, geese & lively city folk going about their business. There is also a perfectly situated bistro by the parking lot, to have a bite to eat, or sip a cocktail."

Kacey Hrynkiw

What People Like

Unique rock sculptures
Beautiful river views
Peaceful atmosphere

What People Dislike

Can get busy

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Remic Rapids Park is located about 4 kilometers from Parliament Hill. You can reach it by car via the Sir John A. MacDonald Parkway, with parking available near the NCC Bistro. It's also accessible by bike paths and is a popular spot for cyclists and joggers. TikTokInstagram

While direct bus routes might vary, you can typically take a bus towards the west end of Ottawa and then walk or cycle the remaining distance. Checking local transit schedules is recommended. TikTok

Absolutely! The park is part of the scenic Sir John A. MacDonald Parkway, which has dedicated cycling paths. It's a popular route for a leisurely bike ride. Instagram

Yes, there is parking available, particularly near the NCC Bistro, which is a convenient starting point for exploring the park. Instagram

Remic Rapids Park is an excellent option for a half-day trip or a relaxing afternoon within Ottawa, offering a natural escape without traveling too far. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, Remic Rapids Park is a public park and entry is free. You can explore the sculptures and enjoy the riverfront without any admission fees. Instagram

As a public park, Remic Rapids Park is generally accessible from dawn until dusk. The NCC Bistro has its own operating hours, which may vary seasonally. Instagram

The rock sculptures are part of the park and are free to view. Artist John Felice Ceprano creates them annually for everyone to enjoy. Instagram

While the park is accessible in winter, the balanced rock sculptures are typically rebuilt in the spring after the ice melts. Winter visits offer a different, quieter experience of the riverfront. Instagram

There are no official guided tours for the park itself, but you can often find local walking groups or events. The artist himself has been seen working on the sculptures. Reddit

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

The main attractions are the unique balanced rock sculptures created by artist John Felice Ceprano, the beautiful views of the Ottawa River and Gatineau shoreline, and the peaceful park setting for walks and relaxation. Instagram+1

The water is shallow around the banks and can be refreshing for dipping your feet. However, swimming conditions can vary, and it's advisable to check local advisories. Reddit

Restroom facilities are typically available near the NCC Bistro and parking area. It's always a good idea to confirm their availability, especially outside peak season. Instagram

Yes, Remic Rapids Park is dog-friendly, and many visitors enjoy walking their dogs along the river. Remember to keep your dog on a leash where required and clean up after them. Instagram

You can enjoy walking, jogging, cycling, photography, picnicking, rock skipping, and simply relaxing by the river. It's a great spot for connecting with nature. InstagramReddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, the NCC Bistro is located at Remic Rapids Park, offering food and drinks with scenic views of the river. It's a popular spot for a casual meal or a refreshing drink. Instagram+1

The NCC Bistro typically offers a selection of casual fare, such as wraps, hot dogs, and other light meals, perfect for enjoying outdoors. Instagram

Absolutely! Remic Rapids Park is a wonderful place for a picnic. You can bring your own food and find a scenic spot along the riverbanks. Instagram

While the park has its own bistro, you can find a wider variety of restaurants and cafes in the nearby Hintonburg neighborhood or back towards downtown Ottawa. Instagram

The NCC Bistro's operating hours are usually seasonal and weather-dependent, typically open during the warmer months. It's best to check their specific schedule before your visit. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

The balanced rock sculptures are a primary subject. Also, capture the panoramic views of the Ottawa River, Gatineau shoreline, and the city skyline, especially during sunrise or sunset. Instagram+1

Golden hour, both sunrise and sunset, offers beautiful lighting for photography. Midday can be bright, but the sculptures still make for striking images. Instagram

Generally, there are no restrictions on personal photography. However, commercial photography or filming may require permits. Instagram

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive river views and sculptures. A telephoto lens can be useful for details or distant cityscapes. A tripod is helpful for low-light conditions like sunset. Instagram

If you're lucky, you might see the artist creating or maintaining the sculptures. Visitors have reported seeing him there, and photographing his work is encouraged. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Remic Rapids Park is a fantastic spot for families. The shallow riverbanks are perfect for kids to safely splash their feet, and the abundance of flat rocks makes it an ideal location for teaching them the fun art of rock skipping. Reddit The park's open spaces are great for running around, and the scenic views provide a pleasant backdrop for a family picnic. Don't forget to bring snacks and drinks, or stop by the NCC Bistro for a treat. Instagram

While the rock sculptures are fascinating for all ages, younger children might be more captivated by the natural elements like the river and the geese. The paved paths are also suitable for strollers, making it accessible for families with very young children. It's a low-cost, high-enjoyment outing that offers a blend of nature, art, and simple fun. Instagram

🚶‍♀️ Nature & Fitness Enthusiasts

For those who love to stay active amidst beautiful scenery, Remic Rapids Park is a gem. The park is crisscrossed with paved paths along the Sir John A. MacDonald Parkway, perfect for running, jogging, or cycling. You can enjoy continuous routes that offer stunning views of the Ottawa River and the Gatineau hills. Instagram

The natural setting provides a refreshing change from urban environments. The opportunity to dip your feet in the river or simply sit by the water adds to the restorative experience. It's a great place to combine a workout with moments of quiet contemplation, appreciating the natural beauty and the unique rock art. Instagram

📸 Photographers & Art Lovers

Remic Rapids Park is a dream destination for photographers and art enthusiasts. The star attraction, John Felice Ceprano's balanced rock sculptures, offers endless creative possibilities. Capturing the delicate balance and intricate formations against the backdrop of the Ottawa River is a unique photographic challenge. Instagram+1

Beyond the sculptures, the park provides stunning panoramic views of the Ottawa skyline and Gatineau shoreline, especially captivating during the golden hours of sunrise and sunset. Instagram The natural elements, wildlife like Canada Geese, and the changing light on the water offer a rich tapestry for visual storytelling. Visiting in spring can even offer the chance to photograph the artist at work, adding an extra layer of interest. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Art of Balance: John Felice Ceprano's Sculptures

Remic Rapids Park is internationally renowned for the captivating balanced rock sculptures created by artist John Felice Ceprano. Since 1986, Ceprano has been visiting the park annually to meticulously stack stones, creating gravity-defying works of art that harmonize with the natural environment. These sculptures are not permanent; they are rebuilt each spring after the ice and snow recede, making each visit a potentially unique experience. The artist's dedication and skill transform the river's edge into an open-air gallery, drawing visitors who are fascinated by the delicate balance and ephemeral nature of his creations. Instagram+2

Ceprano's work is more than just stacking rocks; it's a philosophical statement about balance, patience, and the connection between humanity and nature. Visitors often find themselves contemplating these themes while admiring the sculptures. The process itself is a spectacle, and some lucky visitors have even witnessed the artist at work, adding a personal touch to their experience. The sculptures are a testament to the beauty that can be found in simplicity and the power of natural elements. InstagramReddit

These sculptures are a significant draw for photographers and art enthusiasts alike. The interplay of light and shadow on the stones, especially during sunrise and sunset, creates stunning visual opportunities. The ephemeral nature of the art encourages repeat visits, as the sculptures are reborn each year, offering a fresh perspective on the park's landscape. Instagram+1

Exploring Remic Rapids Park: Beyond the Sculptures

While the balanced rock sculptures are the park's signature attraction, Remic Rapids Park offers much more for visitors seeking a connection with nature and scenic views. The park stretches along the Ottawa River, providing a tranquil escape from the urban bustle. Its location on the Sir John A. MacDonald Parkway makes it easily accessible for leisurely walks, jogging, and cycling, with dedicated paths that offer beautiful vistas. TikTokInstagram

The riverbanks themselves are a focal point, with shallow waters that are perfect for dipping your feet on a warm day. It's also a popular spot for rock skipping, thanks to the abundance of flat stones found along the shore. Birdwatchers can often spot Canada Geese and other waterfowl, adding to the natural ambiance. The park's proximity to downtown Ottawa means you can enjoy a serene natural setting while still being close to city attractions. InstagramReddit

For those looking to extend their visit, the NCC Bistro at Remic Rapids Park provides a convenient option for refreshments and light meals with a view. It's an ideal spot to relax, enjoy the scenery, and soak in the atmosphere of this unique riverside park. Instagram+1

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