Guide to the best parks in and around Ottawa

These parks are some of the best places to visit with family and friends

Author

Robert Hiltz
14 Jul

Part of what makes this city great are the green spaces. Throughout Ottawa there are parks that cater to all kinds of interests. Whether you’re looking for an exhilarating bike ride through hilly terrain, or a relaxing sitdown on a bench with a view, Ottawa has a park for you.

We asked Lookout readers what their favourite parks in and around the city were, and here were their choices.

Britannia Park

What to do: One of the city’s premier beaches. It’s on the Ottawa River west of downtown, with plenty of access by car or by transit. More than a beach, the park includes trails through the grounds that connect to the Ottawa River Pathway, tennis courts, and rafting on the river.

What people are saying: “A great fun place for family and friends. The scenic beauty when you walk or just enjoy the sand and water is just exotic.” — Evangeline Daniel

Confederation Park

What to do: A downtown park that’s a little oasis in the city. Statues of important Canadians and Indigenous people can be found throughout. Home to JazzFest in the summer, and Winterlude events in the winter, this park along the Canal has plenty to offer in the heart of downtown. And don’t miss the NCC Bistro the perfect place to grab a bite or a beer to enjoy in the park.

What people are saying: “A great place to read a book or walk your dog on a sunny day! There's a couple benches around the park where you could sit and enjoy your lunch.” — Laura Li

Gatineau Park

What to do: What isn’t there to do in Gatineau Park? Hiking, cycling, some of the best views of Ottawa you can find. And don’t forget to take a dip in Meech Lake! Everything is here, all year round. In recent years, many of the roads have been closed off to vehicles for even better access for people, particularly on bicycles. 

What people are saying: “This is a tricky one to rate since it's so huge and has so many parts, but if you love the outdoors there are tons of places to visit and things to see. Lakes and waterfalls, trails and all difficulties and distances of hiking. I love it in the park.” — P Eriksson

Hog’s Back

What to do: Glorious waterfalls a little south of downtown where the Rideau River meets the Rideau Canal. It’s a great place for a hike and a picnic, or just to sit and watch the water run. Plenty of parking, there’s also a great set of play structures for kids, it’s great for a day trip without ever leaving town. 

What people are saying: “It's like a little forest or nature in the middle of city. Just awesome place. I did not get much time to finish the trail hike because I was mesmerized by the beauty of the waterfalls.” — Kazumi Makwana

Major’s Hill Park

What to do: Probably the best views in the city. To the north, you’ve got the National Gallery the Alexandra Bridge and the Ottawa River; to the south, there is the Chateau Laurier; and to the west, the best view of all, Parliament and its Library. Lovely gardens and quiet paths make this downtown park the perfect spot for a picnic.

What people are saying: “The park is very peaceful and quiet. It is beautiful and has many different flowers. … It's nice to go for a walk/run along the river or go for a picnic and enjoy a laid back and relaxing time.” — Alaleh

Mer Bleue Bog

Where: Ridge Road

What to do: The main attraction is a boardwalk loop through a preserved wetland. The bog itself is about 7,700 years old, and the boardwalk is a storytelling route perfect for kids in our out of the stroller. There are also a network of other trails where dogs are permitted for long and short hikes on the outside of the bog itself.

What people are saying: “Great place to spend a day in the middle of an interesting geological spot. A short boardwalk trail takes you through the wonderful flora of the bog. Multiple signs give insight into the history of the place.” — Namrata Singh

Mooney’s Bay Park

What to do: Another of the city’s premier beach spots, Mooney’s Bay Park has plent to do for the whole family. Beyond the large beach, there’s a large playground, a fitness park, tennis courts, and a full athletics track. Also, it's host to multiple festivals throughout the summer. Lots of parking, but it can fill up quick on those hot summer days.

What people are saying: “Beautiful family-friendly beach in the heart of the Capital. Plenty of room to play all kinds of sports including volleyball, badminton, soccer, football etc. Great hills for the children who love to fly their kite, and plenty of green space to have a picnic. Wonderful place to spend time with your family.” — Melinda Alexandre

Mud Lake

What to do: One of the fantastic conservation areas nestled within the city, Mud Lake is adjacent to Britannia Parka. It’s a little bit of nature easily accessible. Lots of gentle hiking and a chance to see flora and fauna in a gloriously peaceful spot in the city.

What are people saying: “Mud Lake is a small oasis in the middle of Urban Ottawa’s west end. It is a birders paradise and recognized as a world class birding hot spot. It has an easy 1.5 km path that goes around the lake. … There are five distinct eco zones including a grove of old growth white pines.” — Dave Stibbe

Petrie Island Park and Beach

Where: 795 Trim Rd.

What to do: A gem of the east end, Petrie Island is a fantastic getaway in the middle of the Ottawa River. Easily accessible by car, the island has plenty of short trails to walk through the forest. But the main attraction are the island’s beaches, which cover two sides of the island. Well worth the trip for the whole family. And be sure not to miss turtle valley!

What people are saying: “Petrie Island is one of the best spots in the Canadian national capital region that gathers family friendliness and nature during summer season.” — Tarek Belghith

Strathcona Park

Where: 25 Range Rd.

What to do: This lovely park on the banks of the Rideau River at the edge of Sandy Hill, is a great spot to take a breather. Plenty of trees, shade, and benches, Strathcona is a great park to relax at. And when it gets hot, there’s a splash pad for kids. Maybe the park’s biggest draw though is Shakespeare in the Park.

What people are saying: “Great park with nice atmosphere. There are cool ruins and a playground. It's pet/animal friendly. Always lots of wildlife and people.” — Nick Wang 

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